Scenic City Jaunt/Dinner/BGMC Concert

We met each other at the meeting spot of the Arlington Street Church. We had Michael, another Michael, Chris, Gary, Luke, Hal and myself (Jim.) Julio contacted me earlier in the week. He couldn't make it, as originally planned. It was nice and balmy for a Winter day. The rain held off as a few of us were carrying rain gear. We all know it would have been a downpour if we left our slickers in the car. Our lovely walk started with a short stroll through the Boston Public Garden. The statue of George Washington on his horse was looking quite majestic as we passed. We crossed over the bridge where the swan boats are during the summer. On the other side we exited the park onto Charles St. We crossed the street & strolled into the Boston Common. There were lots of people out and about as it was so mild (50's?) We walked past the Frog Pond ice skating rink that was full of action. We then walked up towards the State House, crossing over into Beacon Hill. Our journey took us around the back side, through the little streets that don't get a lot of traffic. It was nice to see all the little stores we never knew existed. One barber shop especially was like a shop back in time, with all the funky items on display. Onward to Charles St we walked, exiting at the end. We walked up the steps that led to the pedestrian bridge that crosses Storrow Drive. We then srolled through the Esplanade which is always a nice walk.  At one of the little pedestrian bridges, we crossed over into the Back Bay. We found our way to Newbury Street and walked along it's many stores, boutiques, salons, spas and the like. All the trees were lit up nicely with lights. We then got to Berkley Street, and that led us to Back Bay Harry's in the South End. 

    A nice meal was enjoyed by all of us after our walk. It was great to sit, drink, eat and get to know each other over dinner. After our dinner we walked down Columbus Ave to Mass Ave & crossed over. We walked up towards Symphony Hall at Huntington Ave. One block away we came upon Jordan Hall. Hal was on call so couldn't join us for the concert unfortunately. Garry met his friend there.  Chris, the two Michaels, Luke and myself were all seated in the same row. Luke took the seat for the extra ticket we had so he could sit with us. Garry & his friend had balcony seats above us. The Boston Gay Mens Chorus put on a terrific show. They all wore their Black & White tuxes as usual, and sang us a wide ion of songs. There was a good mix of traditional songs, solo's, skits and tributes. The director (Reuben Reynolds) gave praise for the pianist (Chad Weirick) and ASL interpreter (Lewana Clark) who both set milestones this year in being part of the BGMC. 

After the concert we all said our goodbyes, and agreed it was a fun event that should be done again. Thanks everone for a nice walk/dinner/performance. 

-Jim

We'll gather at Arlington Street Church in the Back Bay and begin our scenic walk through the Public Garden, cross over into the Boston Common, past the Frog Pond skating rink, up past the State Capitol, around the backside of Beacon Hill, along Charles Street, out to the Esplanade and follow the Charles River. 

We'll head to the Back Bay Harry's (www.backbayharrys.com) Boston's newest gay dining venue, for a relaxed dinner and social hour. Cost of dinner will be on individual tabs.

When we're warmed and satiated, we will stroll over to New England Conservatory's Jordan Hall for a concert by the acclaimed Boston Gay Men's Chorus entitled "Haul Out the Holly". (www.bgmc.org)

Tickets for the BGMC concert are discounted for this GO event. I've reserved orchestra,mid-range tickets, normally $40+fees= $46. Your cost is $38. This discount is conditioned upon me writing one check for the group. Please send a check made out to Samuel Gloyd, 28 Moreland Street, Roxbury, MA 02119. Our seats are being held until Dec. 2nd.

This is a repeat event, back by popular demand.