Groomsmen/Best Men

I am please to introduce you to my Best Men (in order of time known).  I have not one person who is my “Best Man” as I consider them all my “Best Man.”  They have been with me through the many stages of my life and are equally important and have learned a lot through each of them.

Jeff Burgos (years known: 35 and counting) - My Oldest Brother.  He’s always been the type of brother to look up to and dependable whenever you need him.  Every time we get together we have some great laughs.  And if ever in a competition, he’s someone you want on your team.  In case he doesn’t know, I’ve always thought of him as the most amazing role model.  And I still have the blue Nike Hooded Sweatshirt he gave for me for my high school graduation.  The sweatshirt may fall apart one day, but Jeff never will.

Jonathan Burgos (years known: 35 and counting) - My Second Oldest Brother.  The kindest and most warm-hearted guy I’ve ever known.  I tease him often about our “disagreements” growing up, but I’ve learned how lucky I am to have him as my brother.  I can’t express enough how much I love the way he interacts with people and makes everyone feel great.  There is no one that can say anything bad about Jonathan, because that’s my job.  And truthfully there is nothing bad you can say, I know he will be there to help me through the hard times and to celebrate through the good times.

Michael Fisher (years known: 21 and counting).  I met Mike my sophomore year in High School, but we really connected through a love of R&B music and singing.  It was Mike that helped me understand that friends are the family that you choose.  I never felt so accepted outside of my immediate family and it allowed me to really open up and express myself.  I spent so much time with him, I had my own key to the Fisher house.  If I ever have kids, I do plan on telling many incriminating stories of Uncle Mike as examples of “what not to do”, but it will all be balanced with some shining examples of “what to do”.  If there is one person who can really make me laugh anytime, anywhere, its Mike.

Ian McAlpine (years known: 21 and counting).  I also met Ian my sophomore year in High School.  We bonded in Health class and Driver’s Ed.  Then got to know each other really well when Ian got me a job at the local movie theater one day after my car broke.  I actually kind of crashed it, but never told my parents (until now that is).  Ian introduced Jerome to Punk Rock and to also be brave and question everything you know.  Although I'm older than Ian, I learned a lot from him (but I’ll never tell -  It’s okay it is shown here, as I don’t think he can read).  Ian really showed me it’s okay to walk your own line, and truly exemplifies how to own your individuality.

Bob Alexander (years known: 16 and counting).  I met Bob at Architecture school at CalPoly Pomona.  I really owe Bob a great deal, as it was Bob that really allowed me to expand his horizons.  It was Bob’s idea that I should go to Italy to travel and hopefully meet some Italian Girls.  To my benefit I did not meet any Italian Girls, but instead I met my future wife Andrea Collins.  Throughout college I took Bob’s passion for learning and life to heart.  He always had everything together and was always a shining example of how to follow your passion and execute your dreams.  He always believed in me, even when I did not, and I am forever grateful.

Brian Collins (years known: 11 and counting) - Andrea’s Older Brother.  I was cautious after hearing stories that Brian was a very protective older brother and was allergic to BS and nonsense.  All true, but his commanding personality is matched by his compassion.  I was immediately thankful that we got along and through the years I’ve learned that family members can also be your best friends.  I am lucky, he is a person I enjoy spending time with, even though I am a little battered from a few occasions where “spending time” got out of hand.  I am hopeful for many future occasions, and also scared.  I am honored to have him as a brother and friend.

Michael Ringseis (years known: 10 and counting).  Mike is Andrea’s oldest best friend and now one of my best friends.  He grew up down the next street from Andrea, but in the best possible way, never grew up.  I met Mike while visiting Andrea in San Francisco and once I moved to San Francisco he helped me explore the best parts the city had to offer.  He has showed me you can still be a kid at heart and growing up is not about settling or selling out.  He’s our biggest fan for moving back to San Francisco, and he himself is good enough reason.  Unfortunately, we’ve disappointed him the past few years, but true to form, he remains persistent.