Gaycalgary and Edmonton Magazine, June 2007
June 2007 Issue 44
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GLBT RESOURCE • CALGARY & EDMONTON 2 gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #44, June 2007 gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #44, June 2007 3 4 gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #44, June 2007 Established originally in January 1992 as Men For Men BBS by MFM Communications. Named changed to 10 GayCalgary.com in 1998. Stand alone company as of January 2004. First Issue of GayCalgary.com Magazine, November 2003. Name adjusted in November 2006 to GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine. Publisher Steve Polyak & Rob Diaz-Marino, [email protected] Table of Contents Editor Rob Diaz Marino, editor@gaycalgary. com 7 That Personal Touch 35 Original Graphic Design Deviant Designs Letter from the Publisher Advertising Steve Polyak [email protected] 10 Priape Swimwear 2007 Contributors Winners of the Priape Model Search Steve Polyak, Rob Diaz-Marino, Jason Clevett, Jerome Voltero, Kevin Alderson, Benjamin 14 Gay Pride Event Listing - Hawkcliffe, Stephen Lock, Arthur McComish, 16 Allison Brodowski , and the Gay and Lesbian Calgary Community of Calgary Photographer 15 Gay Pride Event Listing - Steve Polyak and Rob Diaz-Marino Edmonton Videographer Steve Polyak and Rob Diaz-Marino 16 Map & Event Listings Please forward all inquiries to: Find out what’s happening GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine Suite 100, 215 14th Avenue S.W. 23 Gay Legalese Calgary, Alberta T2R 0M2 Phone (403) 543-6960 or toll free (888) 24 Bitter Girl 543-6960 Fax (403) 703-0685 25 Q Scopes “Shrug off scandal, Cancer!” 38 E-mail [email protected] Print Run Monthly, 12 times a year 26 Adult Film Review Masthead continued on page 6 Waterbucks II, Hard Surf, Full Throttle, and Raw Retreat 28 Q Puzzle “‘Til Death Do Us Part,” 29 A Chance to Respond An Unprinted Letter to the Lloydminster Booster 31 Pride Calgary 2007 32 Mamma Mia! Smash musical back in Calgary by Popular Demand
Continued on page 6 gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #44, June 2007 5 Continued from page 5 33 Music Review Wyrd Sisters and Michael Bublé 34 Lucky in Leather Northern Chaps Continues to Grow in Edmonton Continued from page 5 Copies Printed Monthly, Over 10,000 35 Remembrance copies. 37 GORD WOIMA (1951 – 2007) Distribution points up to 200 points in Calgary, largest number of distribution 37 Canadian Explosion! points for any Gay publication in Calgary. A slice of Canadiana at Stage West Up to 150 points in Edmonton, largest number of distribution points for any Gay 38 Fundraising Photos publication in Edmonton. Also distributed coast to coast across Canada in select locations in Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, 44 Edmonton Pride Regina, Saskatoon, Winnipeg, and other So Big you Might Pee…A Little! places across Canada and the United States. Please call us if you would like to 46 What defines a leatherman? be a distribution point. Distributed by Gallant Distributions 48 Thinking of refinancing? (Calgary), Clark’s Distribution (Edmonton), Here is some expert insight to help you avoid mistakes Canada Post (rest of Canada and USA) and by GayCalgary.com 50 AS THE WORLD SITS BACK Deadline for Ad Bookings 25th of the month (unless otherwise stated) 32 52 A Couple of Guys Deadline for Ad copy 28th of the month 53 Letters to the Editor (unless otherwise stated) Legal Council Courtney Sebree Aarbo, 54 Press Releases Barristers and Solicitors Printers North Hill News 58 Pride Exhibit This Issue Cover Mathew Tomczynk of Edmonton, photo provided by Priape, 60 Queer Eye - Calgary & Edmonton taken at Sky Club in Montreal . Community Events this Month The opinions expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of GayCalgary.com or 66 The Drag King Project and Little Men the contributors of the magazine. Harcourt House Presents Pride Exhibitions People photographed or interviewed, writers, advertisers, contributors and 68 Classifieds Ads anyone else involved with this publication are not necessarily gay, lesbian, bi, bi-curious or trans gendered. They can be straight people that are gay friendly. July 2007 Press No part of the publication may be reprinted without the expressed permission of the Deadlines editor-in-chief. Copyright 2007 Member of AAdd SpaceSpace BookingBooking - WednesdayWednesday Canadian Gay & JJuneune 20th20th 20072007 Lesbian Chamber of Commerce AAdd SubmissionSubmission - Member of International Gay & FFridayriday JuneJune 2nd2nd 20072007 Lesbian Travel Association
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PPleaselease contactcontact usus ifif youyou maymay hhaveave missedmissed thethe BookingBooking oror SSubmissionubmission DeadlinesDeadlines Member of Edmonton Rainbow Member of Tourism Calgary. Business Association.
6 gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #44, June 2007 That Personal Touch Letter from the Publisher
ing to fi lmmakers talking about their work had a certain By Rob Diaz-Marino personal interest to me. It feels like my columns from the past few months In case you haven’t noticed from my writing, I’m some- have lost that personal touch. I suppose it shows thing of a storyteller. You probably would not have known I’ve been writing short stories since elementary school. My how getting into the groove of work can make you desk at home has a drawer full of unfi nished manuscripts, develop a pretty myopic view of the world around some spanning multiple notebooks, and a few of which I still you. A friend of mine told me that when work starts hope to revive one day. Filmmaking is just another form of to become your life, it’s time for a holiday. I laughed storytelling, and Fairy Tales reminded me it is still a medium and said, “Maybe one of these days.” Our trip to that I would like to further explore. However, ultimately I Panorama in March was about the closest thing that Video Game Design is the fi eld I dream of getting into some Steve and I have had to a holiday just the two of us, day, no matter how ambitious it may sound. which is scary as we will hit our 6th anniversary in August. I’m afraid all we can hope for is that prover- This Month bial change of pace, which is allegedly just as good. It started out with Media Night at Stage West, where we May was supposed to be a mostly empty month, or so we saw their latest production Canadian Explosion. If you’re a thought. We still ended up keeping just as busy as other Canadian Idol fan, you may remember Aaron Walpole, the months, only it doesn’t feel like we have been out to the Cal- adorable bear who fell just short of the fi nal 2. Well he’s gary bars very much. With my new schedule at the Univer- right here in Calgary, starring in this production and putting sity I have been spending 3 days a week writing my thesis, his vocal talent to good use! After observing him goofi ng while Steve has been doing a valiant job of making sure I around between shots at photo call, and meeting him after don’t get distracted while I’m there. the performance on media night, I have to say he’s such a Steve, on the other hand, had to spend a great deal of time fun guy. Add my name to the list of countless others who in Edmonton this month to cover the a number of events wish they could get to know him better. Hey, I had some including the ISCWR Coronation. I was originally supposed dignity – it’s not like I begged for an autograph…only a to go with him but the Greyhound strike put a damper on photo. those plans. His alternate form of transportation was pretty Our cover model this month is Matthew Tomczynk, the costly and Steve concluded that it was really not worth the winner of the Mr. Priape Calgary Model Search that hap- price. pened in early May. Matthew went on to the International I will have to take a picture of Steve one of these days as Mr. Priape competition, coming in 5th place over all. More he is geared up and ready to head off to Edmonton. His photos from the shoot can be seen on page 10. backpack is so full that it sticks out a good two feet, and Matthew came up all the way from Edmonton to partici- one or both hands are carrying other heavy equipment or pate, and it certainly paid off for him. As a judge I was in spare bundles of magazines in big blue Ikea bags. It is truly agreement with the fi nal decision – he showed confi dence a sight to behold. Unfortunately carrying so much weight and personality, but his extra fl are with props and poses for so long is starting to take its toll on him. His right foot made him impossible to ignore. In close second was our has been giving him quite a bit of pain and leaving him a bit April cover model Rob, who impressed us with his ability to grumpy and short tempered. Hopefully the doctor will be accessorize even in a swimsuit. Don’t take this as a euphe- able to recommend something other than “stay off your feet mism but the mask, snorkel, and water wings were a really for a while.” nice touch. While Steve was off in Edmonton, I did my duty to cover The details are still very preliminary, but it looks like Le a number of events from the Fairy Tales Film Festival. Be- Stud in Montreal if facing a serious human rights charge ing able to sit down and watch movies for a couple of hours after they denied service to the daughter of a male pa- was a very welcome tangent to the usual routine of taking tron. I want to hear what YOU think about this issue! The photos. Attending some of the discussion panels and listen- GayCalgary.com website has had an open discussion area in
gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #44, June 2007 7 our forums since it launched in 1995, so let’s make use of it. opinions day in and day out. Log on to our website, click the “Chat” link and look for my This is something we all need to be a little more conscious posting about Le Stud in the Open Discussion room. I look about. forward to hearing from you! While you’re there, feel free to participate in other topics, or bring up one of your own.
A Little TOO Proud? Gossip Theory Behold the seven deadly sins: Lust, Gluttony, Greed, Sloth, Wrath, Envy, and…Pride? Is it any wonder that the I read an article in the newspaper this month that referred seriously religious think gay people are depraved when we to a study recently published in the Journal of Psychology. openly celebrate one of their deadly sins every year? We It revolved around the way humans form their opinion about know full well we are not trying to be evil or spiteful in this group consensus. They proved that hearing the same opin- celebration, which makes me wonder if “Pride” is the right ion from many different people has the exact same impact word for what we feel. on how we form our own opinion, as hearing it repeatedly from one person. Our writer Arthur McComish came up with a good quote from Jane Austin in his article on page 31. However, I This certainly puts an interesting slant on the gay rumor would like to quote Wikipedia.org to give a sense of the bibli- mill – the phrase “if I want your opinion I’ll give it to you” is cal interpretation of the word: not entirely wrong. I say this to encourage people to refl ect on whether their opinion is really how they feel, and not just In almost every list Pride is considered the original and a rubber stamp of someone else’s sentiment. most serious of The Seven Deadly Sins, and indeed the ulti- mate source from which the others arise. It is identifi ed as a When there was still a buzz around BLVD and The Loft, it desire to be more important or attractive than others, failing to seemed that Calgary was in desperate need of a new gay bar. give compliments to others though they may be deserving of I got the impression it was a very prevalent opinion through- them, and excessive love of self (especially holding self out of out the community, but regardless of actuality, I only heard proper position toward God). Dante’s defi nition was “love of it from 3 people. self perverted to hatred and contempt for one’s neighbor.” ...In Furthermore, it is no wonder that customers can be such perhaps the most famous example, the story of Lucifer, Pride a driving force in the bar wars when the owners are subject- was what caused his Fall from Heaven, and his resultant ed to ill-founded gossip and emotionally charged personal transformation into Satan. Vanity and Narcissism are prime examples of this Sin. There is a very important point at the core of this description no matter what your belief system. When pride goes too far it turns to arrogance, closed-minded- ness, delusion and contempt – it is often the root cause of bigger problems. Does the religious right feel like they are not getting through to us because we’re too proud to seriously consider their arguments against homo- sexuality? You see, pride gives you the false sense that you are greater than someone else and, once that happens you can dismiss everything they have to say, valid point or no. I’ve heard the main argu- ments and crackpot theories against homosexuality, and though plenty of people have revealed the logic to be as hole-ridden as swiss cheese, they keep throwing the same stories at us. For anyone in the religious right to chas- tise us for being too proud is like the pot calling the kettle
Continued on page 49
8 gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #44, June 2007 gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #44, June 2007 9 Priape Swimwear 2007 Winners of the Priape Model Search
By Rob Diaz-Marino Review | Fashion Last month, Priape held a model search compe- titions in select cities across North America, and each of the fi ve fi nalists were given the title of Mr. Priape Wear for their city. The grand prize winner, Gerry King, was crowned Mr. Priape Wear Interna- tional. Edmonton’s own Mathew Tomczynk competed and won at the Calgary event, hosted at the Twisted Element early last month. He was fl own out to Montreal for the fi nals and came in 5th place. These are photos of the fi nalists sporting the new 2007 Priape Swimwear line.
Priape Calgary 1322 – 17th Ave SW (403) 215-1800 www.priape.com
MMr.r. PPriaperiape WWearear TTorontooronto GGerryerry KKing,ing, FFirstirst PPlacelace
MMr.r. PPriaperiape WWearear MMontrealontreal MMr.r. PPriaperiape WWearear MMontrealontreal MMr.r. PPriaperiape WearWear CCalgaryalgary MathewMathew Tomczynk,Tomczynk, FFifthifth PPlacelace AAdamdam Madjar,Madjar, SecondSecond PPlacelace HHelmuthelmuth Grand,Grand, ThirdThird PlacePlace 10 gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #44, June 2007 MMr.r. PPriaperiape WWearear QQuebecuebec MMr.r. PPriaperiape WearWear QQuebecuebec MManuelanuel BBouchard,ouchard, FForthorth PPlacelace MMarc-Andrearc-Andre CCroteauroteau
gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #44, June 2007 11 12 gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #44, June 2007 gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #44, June 2007 13 Swayne Dive. (8pm) Talent Showcase & Silent Auction For Saturday, June 30th PRIDE CALGARY Breast Health Awareness (2pm) Pride After Party Jane Doe Marketplace & Café (8am-10am) Pancake Breakfast Calgary Eagle (424A 8th Ave SW). 311 17 Ave SW, just off 2nd St. www.janedoemarketplaceandcafe.com Thursday, June 7th (9am) Contestants Meeting After Pride Party First time competitors must attend. (7pm) Pride Kick-off Party Twisted Element (1006 11th Ave SW). Rocky Mountain Bears - Bears Bar Night @ At the Auburn Saloon. T-dance, Special Drag Shows, Hourly Prizes. Free Calgary Eagle (10am) Roping Events Two local Music artists will be hosting a range Burgers, $2.50 Hi-balls and Domestic beer. www.rockymountainbears.com of their produced music. John Worthannam (12pm) Grand Entry & Rodeo Events and Sandra Clemons will be performing starting at 8:00pm. Drink specials and good Monday, June 11th (6:30pm) Dinner times!! www.johnworthannam.com and www. Thursday, June 28th Doors at 5 pm and tickets must be purchased in sandraclemons.com. Donations at the door! Rocky Mountain Bears - Coffee Night @ Good Earth Café Queen Street Desperados - New Works by advance. Andy Fabo (7:30pm) Fake Mustache Amateur Competition www.rockymountainbears.com Presented by Skew Gallery. Runs until August (9pm-2am) Bud Light Barn Burner Dance The Soda (211 12th Ave S.W.) 4th. Awesome prizes and for Pride. Saturday, June 16th 1615 10th Ave SW (403) 244-4445 Saturday, July 1st Friday, June 8th (8pm) Xist 2007: Forbidden Fruit www.skewgallery.com At EPCOR Centre for the Performing Arts - Jack [email protected] (8am-10am) Pancake Breakfast (10pm) Military Ball Singer Concert Hall Lobby. Local DJ’s along (10am) Roping Events Located at The Calgary Eagle this is an exhilarating with Performances from SilverFever and local (8pm) A Tribute to Stonewall uniform event packed with hot firemen, bare- artists. Tickets can be purchased online at www. At the Twisted Element (1006 11th Ave SW). (12pm) Grand Entry & Rodeo Events chested sailors and camouflaged soldiers. Dj Don pridecalgary.ca or at Priape, The Calgary Eagle, Featuring entertainer of the year Mz. Toni. spinning, Shooter Specials, Costume Contest! The Backlot, Texas Lounge, The Box and Giant45. Afterparty at the Warehouse. (5pm) Doors open at the Driftwood Hall
Saturday, June 9th (8pm) Calgary Men’s Chorus (8pm-2am) Awards Ceremony and Money Come to the Music Concert Pennies Happy Trails Dance (10pm) Uncover the Cure The Grand (608 1st St. SW) ARGRA (403) 269-3337 Tickets available thru chorus members, Money Monday, July 2nd www.uncoverthecure.org Pennies, Priape and Backlot. $20.00 each, on sale Thursday, June 28th now. EPCOR Centre Lobby. (5pm) ARGRA’s Official Survivor Party Sunday, June 10th (8pm) Prairie Fire Warm-Up Money Pennies Eatery & Bar (1742 – 10th Ave Sunday, June 17th Money Pennies Eatery & Bar (1742 – 10th Ave SW) (12pm) Pride Parade SW) The Pride Parade will start at 8 St SW and head (1pm) ISCCA SA AGM (10pm) The Last Stand east along 8 Ave SW into Stephen Ave Walk, At the Calgary Eagle. (9pm) Wet Jockey Contest Calgary Eagle (424A 8th Ave SE) Calgary’s Historical Main Street. Calgary Eagle (424A 8th Ave SE) (12pm-6pm) Street Gala at the Plaza Friday, June 22nd Friday, June 29th Formerly known as the Street Festival, located (7pm) Investitures 2007: Wild West Show at Olympic Plaza, the heart of Calgary’s Art The Twisted Element (1006 11th Ave SW). (6pm-9pm) Contestants & Grand Entry Community. Beer Garden, Variety of Retailers, Registration RED DEER PRIDE Family Zone hosted by GLCSA. Many DJ and Doors open @ 7pm, Show starts @ 9pm sharp. Valley View Hall, Symon’s Valley Ranch (Lower Performers on the CityTV Stage. Level) Saturday, June 9th Post Parade Party & BBQ Saturday, June 23rd (8pm) Friday Night Cabaret (8pm) Red Deer Gay Pride Dance At the Backlot (209 - 10th Ave SW) (7pm) Pride Tribal Awards Presented by ARGRA & Stuart Aikins Casting Inc. Cost $10. Over night camping available. For At the Auburn Saloon. Featuring live jazz and 8pm Rooster in a Hen House, 9pm Emerson Drive information please call toll free: 1-877-429- Post Parade Party entertainment. Money Pennies (1724 - 10th Ave SW). Featuring 9272. live entertainment by Toni Vere and Jenn Swayne’s
14 gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #44, June 2007 Non-Members: $12.00 Thursday, June 21st family fun activities. The perfect end to a fantastic EDMONTON week of events. (10pm) Climax Ball (8pm) EVM Concert: Forever Young Boots (10242-106 Street) PRIDE Cloverdale Hall (9411 97 Ave). Tickets $15/$12 (low income). Sunday, June 17th
Friday, June 15th (11am-2pm) Northern Chaps: Victory Brunch Saturday, June 23rd Visit website for more info: (7pm) Pride Kick-off (9pm) Pride Dance 2007 www.northernchaps.com Kicking off Pride with the Annual Pride Awards and At Citadel Theatre Complex (9828-101A Ave). Reception and the raising of the Pride flag all at Tickets $15 advance, $20 at the door. (10am) Pride Run City Hall. At Emily Murphy Park. Meet at the west end of the parking lot. (9pm) Northern Chaps: Leather Cocktails Saturday, June 24th At Roost Nite Club (10345 104 St). (12:30pm) Mayor’s Brunch (12pm) Pride Centre Family Pride Brunch St. Andrews Centre. (111 Ave & 127 Street). Buddy’s Pride Kick-off At Edmonton Pride Centre (9540 - 111 Ave). With Special Guest Mayor Stephen Mandel. All Hot stripper at Midnight. No cover. Pink with Pride A free pancake and sausage brunch, including proceeds go to Camp fYrefly. Tickets $30, available - dress in pink. at the Pride Centre. (6pm-12am) Boots Customer Appreciation Beer (1:30pm) Volley Ball and Tennis Group Pride Open Bash & BBQ House Shooter specials, prizes and giveaways. Kinsmen Park next to the Husky House. Saturday, June 16th (3:30pm) The Gay Cup: Pride Challenge Softball Game (1pm-5pm) Northern Chaps Vendors Market At Kinsmen Park Field #2. At TransAlta Arts Barn (10330 - 84 Ave) Gay and Lesbian Softball Team vs. Edmonton Police Team. (2pm) Pride Parade 108 Street & Jasper Ave to Churchill Square.
(3pm) Celebration on the Square Monday, June 18th At Churchill Square. (5pm-7pm) Pride in Transit Business and Community Group Fair, live DL MacDonald LRT Garage entertainment, food vendors, beer gardens. Shuttle buses available from/to City Hall. Uncover the Cure (403) 269-3337 Tuesday, June 19th www.uncoverthecure.org (7pm) PFLAG Panel Discussion (8pm) Northern Chaps: Mr. & Ms. Edmonton At Stanley Milner Library - Centennial Room. Leather Contest Parents in the Closet: The Family’s Coming Out TransAlta Arts Barn (10330 - 84 Ave). Keynote Experience. Speaker IMBB 2006 Benjamin Palmer.
(9pm) UNITY PRIDE DANCE Wednesday, June 20th Presented by Womonspace. Music by DJ ‘Licorice Whip’ (7pm) Queer Images: Edmonton’s GLBT Film Fest Hellenic-Canadian Community Hall Zeidler Hall - Main Floor Citadel Theatre Complex 10450 – 116 Street (9828-101A Avenue). Tickets #10. This is a ‘mixed’ event!! Members: $7.00
gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #44, June 2007 15 Events Listing Find out what’s happening
Money-Pennies 9 Brian Mahoney & John McNeill Calgary Listings See our ad on page 19 and 51 Bathhouse and Sauna’s #10, 6020 - 1A St SW • (403) 259-4141 Goliath’s 6 1742 - 10 Ave SW • (403) 263-7411 Re/Max Reality Professionals See our ad on page 13 http://www.money-pennies.com 308 - 17 Ave SW • (403) 229-0911 BuBu Bear Accommodations Texas Lounge 6 Open 7 days a week, 24 hours a day (403) 852-6977 Westways Guest House 13 See our ad on page 59 http://www.bububear.ca 216 - 25 Ave SW • (403) 229-1758 308 - 17 Ave SW • (403) 229-0911 Portable adult novelties http://www.gaywestways.com Canada Olympic Park Twisted Element 33 Businesses Alykhan Velji Highway 1 Calgary West Bars and Clubs 1006 11th Ave SW - Front Entrance• (403) (403) 617-2406 http://www.canadaolympicpark.ca BackLot 3 802-0230 Interior Decorator See our ad on page 30 See our ad on page 9, 11 and 60 Courtney Sebree Aarbo 24 209 - 10 Ave SW • (403) 265-5211 http://www.twistedelement.ca Adult Depot 1138 Kensington Road NW • (403) 571-5120 Open 7 days a week, 4pm-close 140, 58th Ave SW •(403) 258-2777 http://www.csalaw.ca 1514 14th St SW •(403) 264-7399 23 Barristers & solicitors Calgary Eagle Inc. 4 Twisted Element Lounge 33 See our ad on page 67 See our ad on page 26 and 36 See our ad on page 9, 11 and 60 Sex toys, and Straight, Bi, Gay video rentals Chronos Apollo 424a - 8 Ave SE • (403) 263-5847 1006 11th Ave SW - Back door Entrance • (403) #520 922 5th Avenue SW • (403) 237-2353 Open Wed-Sun 5pm-close 802-0230 Barbies Shop 48 Physician directed skin care and more http://www.calgaryeagle.com http://www.twistedelement.ca 1518 4th Street SW • (403) 262-8265 Adult clothing store, shoes, Gothic, punk, fetish, Cruiseline See our ad on page 72 custom corsettes and more. (403) 777-9494 trial code 3500
16 gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #44, June 2007 http://www.cruiseline.ca Marlborough •(403) 273-2233 Clothing and accessories. Adult toys, leather wear, See our ad on page 67 Phone chat room & talking classifieds for 18+ Stephen Avenue Walk •(403) 266-5226 movies and magazines. Gifts. http://www.aidscalgary.org Westhills Town Centre •(403) 249-2822 Deva Dave Salon 32 Rev. Nadene Rogers Apollo Calgary Friends in Sports See our ad on page 2 See our ad on page 8 See our ad on page 12 http://www.apollocalgary.com 910 12th Avenue SW • (403) 290-1973 (403) 247-0602 Leather and Lace Apollo Friends In Sports is a volunteer-operated, http://www.devadave.com http://www.weddingsmyway.com 2020 32nd Avenue NE • (403) 291-4060 non-profit organization serving primarily members Marriage Commissioner eXude Productions The art of romance of the Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual & Transgendered http://www.exudeproductions.com Reymark communities but open to members of all Lorne Doucette /CIR Realtors See our ad on page 23 communities. We currently have more than 400 First Class Flowers See our ad on page 12 Able Craftsman, Your home renovation specialist members and are growing fast! The primary focus Elbow and Heritage Drive SW• (403) 255-2239 (403) 461-9195 (403) 478-2411 • [email protected] of Apollo is to provide our membership with well http://www.lornedoucette.com Inside organized and fun sporting events and other See our ad on page 71 Marcy Calberry /CIR Realtors R. Cobalt 45 activities to allow them to participate and interact in Corner of Blackfoot Trail & 34th Avenue SE• (403) See our ad on page 58 See our ad on page 9 a positive social framework. (403) 291-4440 or (866) 859-4440 735 12th Avenue SW • (403) 228-7822 241-8550 Absolutely Smashing! Badminton- Winter Event Hair & Aesthetics MFM Communications Jane Doe Marketplace & Cafe 50 Curling- Winter Event See our ad on page 44 Sol Sourced Weddings See our ad on page 8 (403) 543-6970 See our ad on page 7 Squash - Winter Event 311 17 Avenue SW • (403) 245-5263 http://www.mfmcommunications.com (403) 270-9480 Calgary’s Only Marketplace featuring Women Volleyball.- Winter Event Web site hosting and development. Computer http://www.solsourcedweddings.com Entrepreneurs. Coffee Shop too! Hardware and Software. Wedding Commissioner Rainbow Riders Bowling League - Let’s 10 Pin La Fleur 41 Bowlerama, 2916 5 Avenue NE, Wednesday’s at More Better Buses Z-Group See our ad on page 9 6:30pm. Season is from September to April. League (403) 651-1692 Voice over IP (VOIP) phone service and long #103 - 100 7th Avenue SW fees are $15.00 per Night. Shoe rental is $2.00 Providing unique, comfortable & affordable distance (403) 266-1707 transportation. Charter us for: High School (403) 770-1940 Outdoor Pursuits - In attempting to meet our Florist Shop Graduations, Senior Groups, Pub Crawls and members requests for diverse sporting activities we Lammle’s Western Wear Sporting Events Community Groups and have formed the Apollo Outdoor Pursuits League! Chinook Centre •(403) 255-5292 If it’s done outdoors we do it! (and occasionally Priape Calgary 16 Crowfoot Crossing •(403) 547-9808 we venture indoors too). This summer we will be See our ad on page 16 Organizations Deerfoot Mall •(403) 275-6877 Aids Calgary 2 hiking, biking, rock climbing, rafting and a whole 1322 - 17 Ave SW • (403) 215-1800 Market Mall •(403) 247-9224 200, 1509 Centre St South • (403) 508-2500 bunch more. If you’re interested in any of these http://www.priape.com
gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #44, June 2007 17 or something else completely, get in touch with out the Calgary Inter-Faith Food Bank! RSVP before http://www.calgarysexualhealth.ca (403) 923-3953 us. Tired of playing alone outdoors? Well this is November 10th to [email protected] Calgary Sexual Health Centre is a pro-choice http://www.miscyouth.com a GREAT opportunity to participate in events you organization that believes all people have the right [email protected] Calgary Frontrunners Running Club enjoy doing with other interested members of the and ability to make their own choices regarding A benefit show for the Miscellaneous Youth Network, When: 9 am on Saturdays, community. To be added to the distribution list for their sexual and reproductive health. Calgary Fake Mustache is guaranteed to please! Come see Where: Update! Coffee Junkies -795 1 Avenue SW regular updates please email outdoorpursuits@ Sexual Health Centre started as a volunteer based, our boys strut their stuff at Soda, the first Thursday (no longer meeting at Eau Claire Y) apollocalgary.com. grassroots organization and has been providing of every month. $5 cover. $2 cover under 18. What: Walkers and Runners between 5 km – 15 comprehensive sexuality education and counselling Advance tickets available at Barbies Shop. Golf - Contact [email protected], Or by km from sub 5 min/km pace to 10 min/km pace. programs to the Calgary community since 1972. In phone 276-8094 Who: All are welcome - Typically about 15-20 men All Ages show starts at 7:30. 18+ show starts the early 70’s, CBCA’s work focused on improving and women depending on the weather conditions at 10:15. Lawn Bowling - For more information, please access to birth control and increasing support for Contact: E-mail [email protected] or contact Chris or Phil at lawnbowling@ women facing unplanned pregnancies. Since that Gay Prairie Alumni call Tim at (403) 660-6125 apollocalgary.com. time Calgary Sexual Health Centre has evolved to http://groups.yahoo.com/group/gayprairiealumni/ include a range of services to ensure that individuals This group is for all gay/lesbian/transgendered Slow Pitch - Friday Nights - Slo Pitch League, Co-Ed Calgary Gay Fathers are able to make informed choices about their alumni of Prairie Bible Institute and/or Prairie * Rec * Drop-In, Every Friday at 7:00pm - starts [email protected] sexual and reproductive well being. Our programs High School in Three Hills, Alberta. It’s purpose May 11, 2007 (tentative – based on weather), http://www.geocities.com/calgaryfathers promote sexuality as a normal, positive and healthy is twofold: First, social -- to renew old friendships West Hillhurst Community Centre, 18 Street & 5 Peer support group for gay, bisexual and part of life to be valued and respected. Currently and make new ones. Second -- to talk about Avenue NW (East Field) questioning fathers. Meeting twice a month the Calgary Sexual Health Centre offers education our common experiences as gay people at a and youth peer education programs, counselling Yoga - Winter Event. Calgary Humane Society fundamentalist school. Any other questions, please and groups for women who are questioning their See our ad on page 45 feel free to ask. ARGRA – Alberta Rockies Gay Rodeo sexual orientation. (403) 250-4455 Girl Friends Association RU a lesbian, gay, bisexual, two-spirited or queer http://www.calgaryhumane.ca http://members.shaw.ca/girlfriends Hotline: (403) 541-8140 youth, ages 17-24? RU interested in helping make http://www.argra.org Animal Adoptions and for Prevention of Cruelty to Calgary a safer place for people of diverse sexual Girlsgo Productions See our ad on page 3 Animals orientation? If UR, we are looking for dynamic (403) 510-2502 Calgary Men’s Chorus volunteers for our Anti-Homophobia Program. http://www.girlsgo.ca Artists for the Quality of Life See our ad on page 65 This program is intended to raise awareness Event production and promotion in Alberta for (403) 890-1261 (403) 262-6295 and understanding among students about the women. Check online for fun things to do! http://www.afqol.com http://www.calgarymenschorus.org experiences of lesbian, gay, bisexual, two spirited, Women’s Weekend Escape - Choose your adventure transgendered, queer and questioning youth. If in Fernie, BC, Friday, June 22nd to Sunday, June See our ad on page 36 Rehearsals are held from 7:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. you are interesting in sharing your experiences with 24th A Tribute to StoneWall - Thurs. Jun 28th, 2007 at at the Old Y Centre for Community Organizations, other youth, and are available days, please call us The Twisted Element (1006 11th Ave SW) Hosted located at 223 12 Avenue SW. at 283-5580 and ask for an Educator or contact Camping with GIRLSGO - Two opportunities to by Entertainer 15 Mz. Toni! Calgary Networking Club [email protected].. escape to a private, group campsite with other Women. August 24nd to 26th & September 7th Cut-a-Thon - Mon. September 3rd 10:00am to November 2, 5:00-7:00pm Deer Park United Church and Wholeness to 9th 5:00pm at Tomkins Park (17th Ave, 8th Street), At Money Pennies (upstairs) Centre Join us at Tomkins Park for the 4th Annual Donnie 1742 - 10 Ave SW 77 Deerpoint Road SE - (403) 278-8263 GLASS, Gay & Lesbian Association of Students Peters Memorial Cut-a-Thon! Get your hair cut to and Staff Calgary Networking Club (CNC) is back.... after a http://www.dpuc.ca help fundraise for the Positive Living Lunch program 279R Student Union Club Spaces 5 year hiatus, CNC is meeting again in Calgary on Worship Time - 10:00am Sundays at AIDS Calgary. Entertainment for the whole University of Calgary the first Thursday of every month. The networking Different Strokes family, including DJs, Prizes, and more! Haircuts: http://www.ucalgary.ca/~glass meetings are open to all individuals who would http://www.differentstrokescalgary.org $20 for Adults, $10 for Children, $20 for Pets (403) 220-6394 like to promote their businesses or who would like Swim Club. Between Men and Between Men Online to meet new people - no business affiliation is Check website for current schedule GLCSA - Gay And Lesbian Community Services (403) 234-8973 necessary. Association 1 http://www.glcsa.org/ Did You Say Bike? CNC is for members of the LGBTQ community to Peer support, sexual health education for gay YOU TOO CAN PEDAL YOUR ASS OFF! Riders #4, 1230A 17th Avenue SW make new friends or business contacts. This group is or bisexual men, as well as those who may be Wanted - experience or no! (403) 234-8973 uncertain or questioning their sexuality. Discussions not age or gender specific. Come ride your bike with us and make new friends, http://www.glcsa.org range from personal relationship or life issues, to Come listen to our monthly guest speaker, have a learn how to maitain your wheels, maybe even sexual health and well-being. snack, and enjoy talking with some new people. Peer Support and Crisis Line - Front-line help service Admission to the meeting is $5, or a yearly learn a few tricks, and best of all get fit! for GLBT individuals and their family and friends, Meetings at GLCSA Tuesdays 7:00pm to 9:00pm subscription pass can be bought for $25 (a 28% Everyone welcome! or anyone questioning their sexuality. Please click Calgary Big men and Admirers savings). If you have a GLCSA membership take here for further information on our Peer Support http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ an additional $5 off your yearly subscription cost. The Windmill at Eau Claire, 12 until 3-ish. Tasty Program. CalgaryAlbertaBigmenClub/ GLCSA memberships will also be available at snacks and refreshments later on. 24-Hour Info Line - Calgary’s resource directory A group for gay and bisexual men only. Interested the meeting for $10. (Call GLCSA for details on For more info on a great motivational experience, for information, events, business referrals, parties are welcome to join our VIRTUAL Group in membership benefits). E-mail us at [email protected] organizations and support for the GLBT community. Alberta to: Ease Friendly meetings between big guys For more information contact GLCSA at (403) 234- and those who love them, organize different social 8973....or just drop in on the meeting. Don’t Buy In Project Library - A great selection of resource books, fiction, activities, and market a positive image of big men. Calgary Networking Club (CNC) is a Gay & Lesbian http://www.dontbuyin.ca non-fiction, videos and everything in between, all Hope to See you soon... Community Services Association (GLCSA) event. This Calgary Police Service Initiative aims to with a queer perspective. Food and venue sponsored by Money Pennies Bar encourage youth to working towards an inclusive Big men’s and Admirers Sunday Brunch @ 11am. and Eatery. environment in which diversity is embraced in their Drop-In Center - A safe and supportive environment Mother Tuckers ,345 10th Ave S.W., Calgary. A schools and community. for one-to-one peer counseling for many issues social outing for bigger guys and those who enjoy Calgary Sexual Health Centre their company AND its a FOOD DRIVE, so bring 304, 301 14th Street NW Fake Mustache something that is non perishable so we can help (403) 283-5580 Calgary’s ONLY Drag King Show Soda Lounge: 211 - 12th Ave S.W.
18 gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #44, June 2007 surrounding family, coming out, homosexuality, open flavour. Sundays at 4 PM. Pre-service prayer social, educational and recreational activities. It is loneliness and other issues. gathering at 3:30. open to all gay and bisexual men of any age and respects whatever degree of anonymity that each Unity Pages - A service directory of GLBT or GLBT- Knox United Church member desires. friendly businesses, organizations, and services 506 - 4th Street S.W. • (403) 269-8382 within Calgary. http://www.knoxunited.ab.ca/ June 02 – Coffee at Midtown Co-op 1130- 11 Ave. S.W. Meet at 10:00 am Heading Out Knox United Church is an all-inclusive church (403) 234-8973 located in downtown Calgary. A variety of facility June 3 - Monthly Gathering to be held at Inglewood http://www.glcsa.org/ rentals are also available for meetings, events and Lawn Bowling Club for meeting, BBQ and some fun concerts. bowling. Starts at 4:00pm Peer group for men who are looking for an alternative social activity to the bar. Activities vary Worship Services June 5 - Apollo Lawn Bowling and are fun and entertaining. The group meets Wednesdays - Communion Service 12:10 pm June 6 - Free Pool at the Eagle the 2nd and 4th Friday of every month from 7 pm Sundays - 11:00 a.m. September to June to 9 pm. Sundays - 10:30 a.m. in summer July and August. June 9 - Coffee at Midtown Co-op 1130- 11 Ave. S.W. Meet at 10:00 am HIV Peer Support Group New Directions (403) 230-5832 (403) 234-8973 or [email protected] June 10 - Gay Pride Parade and Festivities [email protected] http://www.glcsa.org/ June 12 - Apollo Lawn Bowling Illusions Calgary Drop in peer-support group to provide support and June 13 - Free Pool at the Eagle (403) 234-8973 resources for individuals who identify as transsexual http://www.glcsa.org or inter-sexed. The group meets every 3rd Friday of June 16 - Coffee at Midtown Co-op 1130- 11 Ave. the month from 7 pm to 9 pm at GLCSA. S.W. Meet at 10:00 am Social group for Calgary and area transgender community members (cross dressers, transvestites, If you are transsexual, or know of someone who June 19 - Apollo Lawn Bowling drag kings and queens). Illusions provides a safe, is, please contact our office for information and discrete and welcoming atmosphere, in which assistance. You are not alone! There is support! June 21 - Pumphouse Theatre Production of “Sour transgendered people can meet others of like mind. Water Strippers” PFLAG Calgary Illusions offers discretion, acceptance, compassion (403) 234-0445 ext 801 June 23 - Coffee at Midtown Co-op 1130- 11 Ave. and a safe place to express your gender. Cross- S.W. Meet at 10:00 am dressing is the purpose of the group, but is not Positive Space Committee at Mount Royal mandatory. College June 26 - Apollo Lawn Bowling 4825 Mount Royal Gate SW Inside Out June 27 - Free Pool at the Eagle Phone: 403-440-6383 (403) 234-8973 Web: www.mtroyal.ca/positivespace June 28 - Pumphouse Theatre Production of “Five http://www.glcsa.org Email: [email protected] Blue Haired Ladies On A Park Bench” Peer-facilitated youth group for GLBTQ ages 15-25. The Positive Space Committee at Mount Royal June 29 - ARGRA Rodeo weekend begins The group aims to let youth know they are not College works to raise awareness and challenge alone, and to connect them with their peers. Every June 30 - Coffee at Midtown Co-op 1130- 11 Ave. the patterns of silence that continue to marginalize Monday, 7 pm to 9pm at GLCSA. It is a funky and S.W. Meet at 10:00 am lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans-gendered, two-spirited safe environment with a variety of resources and and queer (LGBTTQ) individuals. Rainbow Community Church activities. See our ad on page 22 Pride Calgary ISCCA – Imperial Sovereign Court of the Hillhurst United Church (403) 262-3410 Chinook Arch 1227 Kensington Close N.W. http://www.pridecalgary.ca http://www.iscca.ca Website: http://www.rainbowcommunitychurch.ca See our ad on page 57 E-mail: [email protected] Integrity Calgary Check out the GayCalgary Pride Guide in this issue http://members.aol.com/DWFrancis/integrity.html The Rainbow Community Church is an all-inclusive church. Everyone is welcome (and we mean it!). A transdenominational Christian fellowship under Pride Rainbow Project Services are held every Sunday afternoon at 4:00 the auspices of the Anglican Church, for gays, [email protected] PM. lesbians, bisexuals, and our friends. We have for http://www.priderainbowproject.com the moment stopped our monthly Eucharist on Rocky Mountain Bears The Pride Rainbow Project was started in Fall 2003 the second Sunday of the month at 7:00pm in http://www.rockymountainbears.com by 4 youth of the Unitarian Church of Calgary. St. Stephen’s Anglican Church (1121- 14 Avenue The Pride Rainbow Project is a project designed Monday, June 11 - Coffee Nite - 7:00pm at Good S.W.): NO SERVICES TILL PRIDE to show support for same-sex marriage in Canada Earth Cafe, 1502 11th Street S.W. St. Stephen’s Anglican Church is a very welcoming and elsewhere. It is a fabric rainbow banner This is a great spot to hang out and make new community that you may consider going to, approximately 5 feet wide, and the goal is to make friends or renew last summers fling! they worship every Sunday morning at 8:00 it 3.2km (2 miles) long, in order to break the world am (traditional prayer book service) and the record (set by a group in Florida at 1.25 miles)! At the very least, come have a cup a joe! contemporary worship service at 10:30 am. It contains the 6 colours of the pride flag: Red, Saturday, June 23 - Bears Bar Nite - Calgary Orange, Yellow, Green, Blue, and Purple. The project Rainbow Community Church of Calgary meets at Eagle, 424A 8th Avenue S.E. is youth run, but anyone can help!. Hill Hurst United Church off (Kensington Close NW). Bears head to the Calgary Eagle to enjoy a beverage They’re a GLBTQ etc. church (and straight folks are Primetimers Calgary anytime after 10:00pm. welcome too!) that seeks to provide tools for the E-mail: [email protected] spiritual journey thorough developing a supportive http://www.primetimerscalgary.com Safety Under The Rainbow community. They are an interdenominational church Prime Timers Calgary is designed to foster social http://www.safetyrainbow.ca in the Christian traditions with an evangelical and interaction for its members through a variety of Mission: To raise awareness and understanding of
gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #44, June 2007 19 same-sex domestic violence and homophobic youth Foundation. So before you plan your next trip with Western Leather Federation Broadway Across Canada bullying. WestJet, email Ed at TravelMasters Coffee Night – Wed, 8:30pm. At the Calgary Eagle. http://www.broadwayacrosscanada.ca Project Areas: SHEQ Soulful Healing Ego Quest Womynspace Jun. 19 -24, 2007 - Mamma Mia!, Southern (403) 234-8973 or [email protected] (403) 234-8973 or [email protected] Alberta Jubilee Auditorium Partnerships – Create partnerships with like-minded http://www.glcsa.org/ http://www.glcsa.org/ groups. Organize a meeting to discuss a province- See our ad on page 12 wide cross-sector entity addressing domestic A workshop for women that want to be themselves Peer social/support group for women providing an A mother. A daughter. 3 possible dads. And a trip violence and homophobic bullying. in a supportive, safe environment. It is a chance evening of fun, bonding, discussion and activities. down the aisle you’ll never forget! Over 20 million to grow and share their experiences related to Meets every first and third Friday 7pm to 9pm at people all around the world have fallen in love with Training - Develop and pilot training modules that women’s sexuality. Runs for a ten week period on GLCSA. the characters, the story and the music that make address GLBTT domestic violence and homophobic Thursdays at 7pm. Call Trudy or Krista at 585- Vigor Calgary MAMMA MIA! The ultimate feel-good show! Writer youth bullying. See the website or contact the office 7437. To participate, please call the exclusive (403) 255-7004 Catherine Johnson’s sunny, funny tale unfolds on a for information on the next training session. SHEQ line at 585-7437 (you may leave a voice http://www.vigorcalgary.ca/ Greek island paradise. On the eve of her wedding, Research – Conduct an enviro-scan of services and message for Trudy or Krista) or leave your name a daughter’s quest to discover the identity of her Violence in Gay Male Relationships (VIGOR) is a support available to GLBTT family violence and and a contact time/number with the Gay & Lesbian father brings 3 men from her mother’s past back to committee of professionals dedicated to increasing abuse victims. Community Services Association at 234-8973. the island they last visited 20 years ago. The story- the awareness of gay men’s domestic violence and telling magic of ABBA’s timeless songs propels this Directory – Publish a province-wide directory of Speak Sebastian the services available to them. enchanting tale of love, laughter and friendship, services and supports addressing same-sex domestic http://www.cjsw.com “Yeah... What She Said!” and every night everyone’s having the time of their violence and homophobic bullying. Radio Show – Every first & third Wednesday from Every Monday evening from 8:30-9:00pm lives! With more productions playing internationally 9-10pm. Radio for the gay, lesbian, bisexual, Survey – Conduct a survey on how same-sex CJSW 90.9 FM than any other musical, MAMMA MIA! Is the trans gender and kink community. Listen on CJSW domestic violence and homophobic bullying affects [email protected] World’s No.1 Show FM 90.9. GLBTT individuals. Contact the office if you would be Youth 4 Youth Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra willing to fill out this survey. Urban Sex (403) 283-5880 http://www.cpo-live.com • (403) 571-0849 http://www.cjsw.com Sharp Foundation http://www.youth4youth.com Fairytales International Gay & Lesbian Film Phone: (403) 272-2912 Radio Show – Every second & forth Wednesday YouthSafe Festival E-mail: [email protected] from 9-10pm. Focus on sexuality; gay bisexual http://www.youthsafe.net http://www.fairytalesfilmfest.com http://www.thesharpfoundation.com lesbian trans gendered and straight issues here in Calgary and around the web. Listen on CJSW Alberta’s website for youth with sex-and-gender Looks Could Kill Art Boutique Travel Masters - Need a vacation?, Ed Smith at FM 90.9. differences. Youthsafe.net lists the resources, Art Central, lower level #11, 100 7th Ave SW • Travel Masters has agreed to donate 25% of information and services to help youth find safe and (403) 264-7576 his profit from WestJet bookings to The SHARP caring spaces in Alberta. One Yellow Rabbit 35 Big Secret Theatre – EPCOR CENTRE for the Restaurants Performing Arts • (403) 299-8888 Calgary Eagle Inc. 4 http://www.oyr.org See our ad on page 26 and 36 424a - 8 Ave SE • (403) 263-5847 QUAB Gallery Inc. 43 Open Tues-Sun 4pm-close 212, 100th 7th Avenue SW • (403) 261-2855 http://www.calgaryeagle.com http://www.quab.ca Jane Doe Marketplace & Cafe 50 Pumphouse Theatre 37 See our ad on page 8 2140 Pumphouse Avenue SW • (403) 263-0079 311 17 Avenue SW • (403) 245-5263 http://www.pumphousetheatres.ca Calgary’s Only Marketplace featuring Women Skew Gallery Entrepreneurs. Coffee Shop too! See our ad on page 12 Money-Pennies 9 1615 10th Avenue SW • (403) 244-4445 See our ad on page 19 and 51 http://www.skewgallery.com 1742 - 10 Ave SW • (403) 263-7411 Stagewest 727 42 Avenue SE • (403) 243-6642 Theatre and Art http://www.stagewestcalgary.com Alberta Ballet CANADIAN EXPLOSION – The Best of Canada’s Pop, http://www.albertaballet.com Rock and Country, Written by: Howard Pechet, April ATP, Alberta Theatre Projects 36 26 – July 1, 2007 Phone: (403) 294-7402 We tuned into the Americans and the Brits http://www.ATPlive.com throughout the 60’s and 70’s and then came Bryan AXIS Contemporary Art Adams, Shania Twain and Celine Dion. By the 90’s 107, 100 – 7 Ave. SW • (403) 262-3356 Canada boasted a flourishing music industry and [email protected] some of the world’s greatest recording stars. Let us take you on a “Spinning Wheel Ride” from the Monday to Friday: 10am to 6pm Guess Who in the 60’s to Nickleback today. Saturday: 10am to 5:30pm Sunday: 11am to 3pm Stride Gallery 47 1004 MacLeod Trail SE • (403) 262-8507 First Thursdays (the First Thursday of each month): http://www.stride.ab.ca 10am to 8pm Theatre Junction http://www.theatrejunction.com
20 gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #44, June 2007 7-104 Department of Educational Policy Studies Truck Gallery 46 Steamworks 11 Faculty of Education, University of Alberta downtown airport) 815 1st Street SW (Basement) • (403) 261-7702 11745 Jasper Ave• (780) 451-5554 Edmonton, Alberta, Canada T6G 2G5 Every Wednesday and Thursday night, 8pm-10pm http://www.truck.com http://www.buddysniteclub.ca/ http://www.fyrefly.ualberta.ca Welcome GLBT players! Vertigo Mystery Theatre 34 Wednesday night recreational level: All players 161, 115 – 9 Ave SE • (403) 221-3708 Businesses Edmonton Pride Week Society and skill levels welcome. Contact Marc for more http://www.vertigomysterytheatre.com B & D Emporium 13 http://www.prideedmonton.org New City Compound, 10081 Jasper Avenue See our ad on page 4 information: [email protected], Tel: (780) http://www.bdemporiumedmonton.com 445-0365. ERBA - Edmonton Rainbow Business Edmonton Listings Cruiseline Thursday night intermediate level: Coaching and See our ad on page 72 Association drills provided. Contact Alex for more information: #3379, 11215 Jasper Avenue • (780) 4915- (780) 413-7122 trial code 3500 [email protected], Tel: (780) 424-9984. (Please 4458 Bars and Clubs http://www.cruiseline.ca note that there is limited space on the intermediate http://www.edmontonrba.org Boots & Saddles 5 Phone chat room & talking classifieds for 18+ night) 10242 106th St • (780)423-5014 Our primary focus is the provision of networking Pride Construction HIV Network Of Edmonton Society 3 opportunities for gay, lesbian, bisexual and Buddy’s Nite Club 6 (780) 239-9197 11456 Jasper Ave transgendered (GLBT) owned or operated and 11725 Jasper Ave • (780) 488-6636 Construction and Renovations GLBT-friendly businesses in the Edmonton region. http://www.hivedmonton.com Prism Bar & Grill 8 Community Groups and Membership is open to all kinds of entrepreneurs, Imperial Sovereign Court of the Wild Rose 10524 101st St • (780) 990-0038 from tradespeople to professionals to commission http://www.gayedmonton.org http://www.prismbar.ca Organizations salespeople. The Roost 9 The Edmonton Rainbow Business Association After Living Positive (Edmonton Persons Living with 10345 104th St • (780) 426-3150 Buck Naked Boys Club (Edmonton) Business Mixers. Held on the second Wednesday of HIV Society) 2 http://www.theroostniteclub.com Naturism club for men. every month 5:30 – 7:30 pm (780) 488-5768 Meets the second Saturday of each month. http://www.edmlivingpositive.ca Woody’s 12 (780) 471-6993 Jun 13 Prism, 10524 – 101 St, (780) 990-0038 11725 Jasper Ave • (780) 488-6557 http://www.bucknakedboys.ca Edmonton STD 4 Providing confidential one-on-one peer support for Our club has been meeting continuously for over 10 11111 Jasper Ave infected or affected individuals…. Internet support Bathhouse and Sauna’s years. The similar club in Calgary ceased to exist Edmonton Vocal Minority [email protected] Down Under Baths 7 several years ago. Naturism is being social while http://www.evmchoir.com 12224 Jasper Ave •(780) 482-7960 Northern Chaps everyone is naked, and it does not include sexual See our ad on page 30 http://www.gayedmonton.com/ http://www.northernchaps.com activity. Therefore participants do not need to be Phone: 780-479-2038 Steamers 10 gay, only male, but almost all participants over the See our ad on page 27 Free To Be volleyball 9668 Jasper Avenue • (780) 422-2581 years do self-describe as being gay or bisexual. Northern Chaps is Edmonton’s original leather, Amiskiwcy Academy, 101 Airport Rd. (near the latex, fetish, uniform club. We have been in Camp fYrefly existence officially since 1987 but have been in See our ad on page 30 gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #44, June 2007 21 existence originally around 1982 in Edmonton, Facilitator: Mark, HIV Outreach discussion. Social time for sharing and networking Love and Pride Alberta, Canada. Everyone is welcome to join or The HIV positive Gay Men’s Group is a place for will follow at the end of each session. Call the Pride Gay and Lesbian themed Jewelry attend events gay men to come and share their feelings on Centre to register or for more details. http://www.loveandpride.ca how it is affecting their personal lives. This is a Northern Chaps is a social group existing for the - GLBT Seniors Drop IN Squirt personal private time for them to express how it has purpose of providing a safe, accepting social climate Every Thursday Pride Centre (95A St. and 111 See our ad on page 70 changed their outlook on life. As well to support and to people interested in the leather/fetish/uniform Ave.), 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Dating and hookups website help each other dealing with being HIV positive. lifestyle. The Pride Centre is thrilled to introduce a new http://www.squirt.org Whatever is said in the room stays within the room. program serving our GLBT seniors. Hosted by Jeff Northern Chaps believes that people should be Remember! You are not alone! Wega Video Bovee, contact the Centre at 488-3234 for more free to express their individuality and to exercise Adult DVD’s - Youth Understanding Youth info. personal lifestyle choices without social constraint, http://www.wegavideo.ca Youth support and social group meets every to the extent that they do not interfere with the Saturday from 7 to 9 pm at the Pride Centre of freedoms of others. Theatre and Art Edmonton 95A St. and 111 Ave. Ph: (780) 488- Alberta Ballet Community Groups and In particular, Northern Chaps defends and pursues 3234 Contact: [email protected] (www.members. http://www.albertaballet.com this belief on behalf of gay men and lesbian women shaw.ca/yuy ) Organizations who, through positive alternative lifestyles, seek to Broadway Across Canada - Womonspace Alberta Transgender Support and Activities explore the boundaries of their sexuality, including http://www.broadwayacrosscanada.ca 1st Sunday of every month from 10 am to 1 pm Group the use of certain associated dress, signs and at the Pride Centre of Edmonton 95A St. and 111 July 17 - 22, 2007 - Mamma Mia!, Northern http://www.albertatrans.org symbols, and safe, sane and consensual behaviors. Ave. Ph:488-3234 Contact Womonspace for details Alberta Jubilee Auditorium A nexus for transgendered persons, regardless of Pride Centre of Edmonton 1 http://www.gaycanada.com/womonspace/ A mother. A daughter. 3 possible dads. And a trip where they may be on the continuum. 95A St. and 111 Ave. • (780) 488-3234 - Prime Timers down the aisle you’ll never forget! Over 20 million Canadian Rainbow Health Coalition / Coalition Monthly Member Meetings at the Pride Centre of people all around the world have fallen in love with - Bears Movie Night santé arc-en-ciel Canada Edmonton 95A St. and 111 Ave. Ph:488-3234 the characters, the story and the music that make Bears club of Edmonton meets the last Sunday of P.O. Box / C.P. 3043 the month for movies 1- 6 pm in the TV room at the MAMMA MIA! The ultimate feel-good show! Writer - Suit Up and Show Up Big Book Study Saskatoon SK Canada S7K 3S9 Pride Centre of Edmonton 95A St. and 111 Ave. Ph: Catherine Johnson’s sunny, funny tale unfolds on a Saturdays at 12 noon. At Pride Centre Greek island paradise. On the eve of her wedding, 306-955-5135 (780) 488-3234 toll -free / sans frais 1-800-955-5129 - Sick and tired of being sick and tired? Cocaine a daughter’s quest to discover the identity of her - Trans Education/Support Group fax/ télécopieur 306-955-5132 Anonymous meeting father brings 3 men from her mother’s past back to Support and education for all transsexual, http://www.rainbowhealth.ca Thursdays 7-8pm CA Hotline 425-2715 the island they last visited 20 years ago. The story- transgendered, intersexed, two-spirited and telling magic of ABBA’s timeless songs propels this http://www.santearc-en-ciel.ca questioning individuals meets 1st and 3rd Sundays - Youth Drop-in enchanting tale of love, laughter and friendship, Egale Canada of each month, 2-4 pm at the Pride Centre Every Wednesday at 5:00pm and every night everyone’s having the time of their #310, 396 Cooper of Edmonton 95A St. and 111 Ave. Ph: (780) Open to all youth 25 years and under lives! With more productions playing internationally Ottawa, ON K2P 2H7 488-3234 Contact [email protected] or than any other musical, MAMMA MIA! Is the 1-888-204-7777 toll free call 488-3234 for more info. - Sunday Night Mens Discussion Group World’s No.1 Show Stephen Lock – Regional Co-Director (Male) Mens social and discussion group meets every - Men’s HIV Support Group Prairies/NWT/Nunavut Sunday @ 7 pm at the Pride Centre of Edmonton Will be meeting on each second Monday of the (403) 708-5302 cell phone 95A St. and 111 Ave. Ph: 488-3234, Contact: Rob month. At the Pride Center, Edmonton Starting in Lethbridge Listings http://www.egale.ca Wells - [email protected] April, from 7pm to 9pm. GALA/LA - Gay and Lesbian Alliance of [email protected] Lethbridge and Area Egale Canada is the national advocacy and lobby - Saturday Movie Night - Parents Rock the World Workshops (403) 308-2893 (live on Mon. and Wed. evenings organization for gay men, lesbians, bisexuals, Weekly movie nights, with themed movies and PFLAG Canada: Edmonton Chapter - Workshop until 11 p.m.) trans-identified people and our families. discussion afterwards at the Pride Centre of Series Tuesdays (Feb 7, March 7, April 4, May 2, http://www.newgaylethbridge.ca Edmonton 95A St. and 111 Ave. Ph: (780) 488- June 6), Pride Centre (95A St. and 111 Ave.) 7:00 Membership fees are pay-what-you-can, although 3234. from 2:00 to 5:00 – 10:00 p.m. Ph: (780) 488-3234 Monthly dances (Sept.-May) start Sept. 16 at pre-authorized monthly donors are encouraged (and A series of workshops for Parents of Gay, Lesbian, Croatian hall Call for directions, or for information get a free Egale Canada t-shirt). Egale has several - The HIV Positive Gay Men’s Group Bisexual, Transgender and Questioning children. on P-Flag, campus groups and monthly pot-luck committees that meet by teleconference on a Drop in caring circle every Thursday, 1-4 pm @ 7- Each session will feature a 30 – 45 minute dinners regular basis; membership on these is national with 9 pm in main area, at the Pride Centre of Edmonton topic specific presentation, followed by a group members from every region of Canada. 95A St. and 111 Ave. Ph: (780) 488-3234 Red Deer Listings Theatre and Art Affirm Brothers TV Composed of LGBTQ people, their friends, family See our ad on page 43 and allies. No religious affiliation necessary. Activities include support, faith and social justice http://www.brotherstv.com discussions, film nights, and potlucks! Affirm OUTtv meets the second Tuesday of the month at 7PM at See our ad on page 64 Sunnybrook United Church, (403) 347-6073. http://www.outtv.ca If you would like to add your business or non-profit National Listings group to the list above, please call (403) 543- 6960, or toll free 1 (888) 543-6960 or E-mail Businesses [email protected]. You can add your Entre Nous information to the GayCalgary.com directory on the 1-866-467-5252 website for free. http://www.entrenousnetwork.com
22 gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #44, June 2007 Gay Legalese
motion or advancement. I do think that the police hierarchy By Darryl Aarbo tries to keep the police honest and civil, especially since Chief Silverberg made her diligent efforts. Dear GayCalgary, Your human rights and civil liberties have been a hard Recently I am hearing more and more from friends that fought battle. Do not become complacent about defending people are being stopped for having rainbow stickers on them, because if you do not defend them then you may loose their car, or if they are leaving from Twisted, with the police them. Even something as apparently small as fi ling a com- offi cer making a point of mentioning the sticker and the fact plaint can have a ripple affect at a later time. they are gay. They are stopped, scrutinized intensely, and then let go with no charge and no reason for stopping them. Darryl A. Aarbo The police saying they don’t require a reason to stop them. If you wish to send in a letter, please email it to legaladvice@gaycalgary. com. Darryl A. Aarbo can be directly reached at Courtney Sebree Aarbo, This usually leaves the person with a feeling of being tar- Barristers & Solicitors, 1138 Kensington Road NW, Calgary, Alberta, T2N geted, humiliated and afraid because they are gay. 3P3. Visit their website at http://www.csalaw.ca. Phone (403) 571-5133. Fax: As I understand it, stopping someone for no reason under (403) 571-5134 Canadian Law is illegal and considered arbitrary detention. Other than the question, all personal information (i.e. name, address, Basically that if a police stops you without good reason, it E-mail) will remain confidential. GayCalgary.com Magazine does reserve the is considered a charter violation and treated as fi shing for a right to alter questions for brevity and content. charge. What can we do about this, what recourse do we have? Is there actual human rights protection in place yet for gay men/women of this province? Can we honestly feel safe from being targeted and have legal protection against mis- treatment from city authorities? - Legally Wondering
Dear Legally Wondering, Your experience with the police sounds truly horrible. We all want to believe that the police are there to protect us, rather than the third world notion of who the authorities can be. The police must have reasonable and probable grounds to stop any vehicle, otherwise it is indeed a charter violation. Unfortunately, it can be pretty easy to fi nd reasonable and probable grounds at times: if you are driving too fast or run a yellow light. Sometimes even leaving a bar can be reason- able and probable grounds. Further, there can be little recourse if you do get pulled over. If you get charged with a crime then sometimes that crime will be thrown out of Court because there was a Char- ter violation, but if there are no charges then there is not much you can do. Filing a Human Rights complaint will be of little value if you do not have evidence of discrimination. One’s only recourse would be to fi le a complaint with the police service itself. There is a formal complaint process and a human rights liaison offi cer to lodge informal complaints. The fi rst complaint may go unanswered, but if there is more than one made about an offi cer then perhaps someone will take notice. The police union is pretty strong and there may be no discipline. The union tends to defend almost any conduct these days. Nevertheless, the complaints may be noticed by management and the person will be denied a pro-
gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #44, June 2007 23 24 gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #44, June 2007 Q Scopes “Shrug off scandal, Cancer!”
By GayCalgary Staff Lifestyle | Astrology The Sun in Gemini already has tongues a-wagging. Trine to Neptune, it opens up sensitivity, poetry, and comes to deciding. sympathy. Logic is a bit weak, but you can win ar- guments with seductive appeals, if not actual facts. SCORPIO (October 23 - November 21): Start a Mars in Aries energizes this mix. Act quickly! Focus new exercise and health regimen. Review your comes unpredictably, and only in short bursts. diet and make improvements. Your sex life is also a factor in your health. Discuss that with a friend who can be trusted with the details and will show good judgment.
ARIES (March 20 - April 19): It’s hard to resist following your impulses. Good, long walks and SAGITTARIUS (November 22 - December 20): Ex- conversation with friends will help you see what those urges plore new fun and games with your partner. Word are about and where they may lead. games - something like Dictionary or Scrabble - will stimu- late your elocution in the wider world. You want something more erotic? How about strip-Boggle or a kinky spelling-bee TAURUS (April 20 - May 20): You like to move fantasy? with slow, careful deliberation, but now is the time to act on impulse, even while shopping. Trust your instincts, and stay true to whatever spiritual authority you CAPRICORN (December 21 - January 19): At acknowledge. work, your energy is especially high, but a bit scattered. Doing some housework will help you focus. If you run out of household chores, ask yourself how Mom would GEMINI (May 21 - June 20): Your birthday gift is prioritize and tackle the jobs at hand. a license to jabber as you please. Stimulate your friends to share ideas that will challenge your own ideals. Out of that chatter can come sudden inspirations that will help AQUARIUS (January 20 - February 18): Your you make clear plans for your future. playful banter could come off a bit more aggres- sive than you intended. For safety’s sake, carefully choose appropriate targets and favor the pen over the tongue. If you CANCER (June 21 - July 22): Some of your most can’t say anything nice, talk about Ann Coulter. secret desires and passions may be very publicly revealed. With dignity and humor, you can turn that to your advantage. At the very least, shrugging off hints of scandal will PISCES (February 19 - March 19): Usually a bad show impressive self-assurance. idea, retail therapy is now exactly what you need. Perhaps something of a spiritual nature to decorate your home? Set yourself a budget and do some browsing; when the LEO (July 23 - August 22): A little confusion about where you stand in your relationship is impulse is right, you’ll know it. provoking you to ask questions, both pointed and philosophi- cal. Stay philosophical. All in all, the quest for deeper under- standing is great. Invite - don’t drag - your baby along for this ride!
VIRGO (August 23 - September 22): You’re al- ready pretty industrious and need no lectures on the value of hard work, but now that work pays extra divi- dends. Still, take time to play! Staying in balance and indulg- ing your libido are important for morale and productivity.
LIBRA (September 23 - October 22): You’re especially playful these days, perhaps making it unusually diffi cult for your partner to keep up. Baby wants to play, but let your sweetie set the pace. Suggest anything new, different, and appealing, but defer to your darling when it
gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #44, June 2007 25 Adult Film Review Waterbucks II, Hard Surf, Full Throttle, and Raw Retreat
By Jerome Voltero Review | Adult Male “Waterbucks II” by Colt Stu- dio, Courtesy of Priape On this particular day the waves are pretty whimpy, which Just in time for summer, this leads a number of guys to fi nd ensemble of studs is bound to other ways to entertain them- get you wet as they play by the selves. In the fi rst scene, Tim poolside. Knowing Colt, you can Towers pops in to the lifeguard expect some pretty beefy men. A hut for a different kind of practice few of them are shaved smooth to with Scott Swan. I really hope accentuate their muscles, but the nobody is drowning, since the rest have let the forest grow. other lifeguard Jason Ridge has The action consists of your wandered off to cruise a potential standard stuff – kissing, blow lay. jobs, rimming and anal. The Meanwhile, police offi cer Mick unique part is more the setting Powers apprehends porn star than anything; a stunning pri- “Trojan” for mischief in the public vate pool surrounded by a regal showers, but ends up giving him garden. It is a beautiful bright what he was looking for in the summer’s day, not a cloud in the fi rst place – a cock to suck. Pow- sky, and these guys just can’t keep their paws off of one another. ers barks out orders, panting and Though the setting doesn’t change, each scene has a fresh new growling as Trojan services him. Brad Star walks in on the two pair of men enjoying one another’s company. In scene two, the and doesn’t even seem surprised – he nonchalantly puts down his hunky Carlo Masi messes around with smooth muscle-boy Josh surfboard and joins them. Only minutes later, Tim Towers walks Weston. As the playing gets intense, veins pop out just about ev- in and joins the orgy as well, pairing off with Star. erywhere on Weston’s body – I expected him to start turning green! Despite being completely smooth, I found Dakota James quite Actually, that would be pretty hot if he transformed into the hulk sexy. He has an awesome body – big muscles on a big frame - not mid-sex – Masi would certainly get a surprise. to mention those large sexy tattoos on each shoulder. Marco Paris Speaking of the hulk, Skye Woods bears an eerie resemblance to cruises James as he runs by, and the two hook up and head home the comic book hero. In the third scene he sneaks up on sunbath- for some fun. ing Tom Chase, another guy that appealed to my fur affi nity. Compared to “Waterbucks II”, this fi lm didn’t have any outdoor If you like the idea of beefy, hairy guys having wet and wild sex scenes. The guys were generally less hairy, not quite as beefy, outdoor sex, you’ll want to dive into this movie! but perhaps more sexy if you like the beach bum type.
“Hard Surf” by Massive Studio, Courtesy of Priape “Full Throttle” by Hot House Video, Courtesy of Adult Depot Surf’s up! This fi lm takes place on a beach that is, as one life- If this one is a holiday porno, then it’s based on the summer guard so eloquently puts it, “crawling with cock.” you hung around in the city not knowing what to do with yourself. For Nick Piston, this means getting into trouble by cruising horny
26 gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #44, June 2007 biker dudes like Mike Power (not to be mistaken for Mick Powers). Piston is a shy pup, adorned with numerous tattoos and piercings. He spots Power pulling into a secluded area and follows him in. Power may not be much to look at, but he has a dick from hell that Piston is all too eager to gulp down. Piston’s manhood is not to bad either, so Power takes a turn on his knees. They go on for some rimming, and what scene is complete without the butt sex? Matt Cole is spending his sum- mer working in the storage closet of a machine shop, and as he watches his colleague C.J. Knight up on a ladder, his urges take hold. Piston appears again in a later scene, as part of a three-way with the handsome Vinnie D’Angelo and Jay Armstrong. The guys in this porno seem like your blue-collar grease monkey types – slender but muscular, tattooed, and sporting fi ve-o-clock shadows to further the rough look. While most of them are at- tractive in their own way, D’Angelo takes my vote as favorite, with Armstrong in a close 2nd.
“Raw Retreat” by Hot Desert Knights Inc., Courtesy of Adult Depot Yes, it is a barebacking video. This one comes with a very good warning on the DVD case, which also appears prior to the movie itself. For this reason you’re being spared the lecture from me this month. In this fi lm, a bunch of guys go up to a beautiful mountain retreat in Southern California for a weekend of shameless fornica- tion. The cabin’s back patio over- looks a wide forested valley with not a trace of civilization in sight. The cast of mainly no-names is a nice departure from the big- wig porn stars that are getting recycled all too often these days. Still there is good variety, so at least one guy in the fi lm you will adore. They have a few persuasions of twink, a young bear cub (over whom I drooled in scene 2), a muscle guy, a muscle-bear daddy, a token brown guy, and a dirty old man. It’s really good to get away from it all, and this laid back porno felt like a relaxing holiday, just to watch.
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gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #44, June 2007 27 Q Puzzle “Til Death Do Us Part,”
By GayCalgary Staff Fun | Crosswords CLUE: crossword about the new Court TV show Across 1 Treats for Rizzo at the 51 ’Til Death Do Us Part Frosty Palace narrator 6 Very top 54 Patty Hearst’s former 10 Prick org. 14 Carpet layer’s calcula- 55 Lacking meat tions 56 AFL partner 15 Billy of Cleopatra (1999) 57 Jones, formerly of The 16 Crack the whip at, e.g. View 17 Having a dark sense of 58 Sadist’s tool humor like 51-Across? 59 Portrayer of 51-Across 19 Opposite of loads 62 Chicken, to a chicken- 20 Drives from the closet hawk 21 Like Esera Tuaolo, from 63 Position at sea the NFL 64 Comedian Gomez 22 Type of bath 65 Barrie’s boys 23 Top-secret org. 66 Manhandle, with “with” 24 Gay honeymoon spot in 67 Atlas blow-up Hawaii? 28 Edginess 30 Bonheur’s motives 31 It makes the bottom Down line bigger 1 Malawi orphanage wood Squares 45 What a penis pump 32 “Break ___!” funder 10 Use them to go down does 34 Snake sound 2 Turned on 11 Skin decorations 46 Shows appreciation, as 35 Quick transport for 3 Dance piece 12 Wonder Woman’s for a Kate Clinton set Samantha? 4 Scottish head covers people 48 Sweethearts 39 Delivery docs, for short 5 U-turn from NNE 13 ___ death (loss of inter- 49 Sedaris of Strangers 42 Tool with jaws 6 Mexican friend of Maya est) with Candy 43 Moliere comedy, with Angelou? 18 Gershwin and Levin 50 Sneaky Pie cry The 7 Singer LaBelle 22 Bio. or chem. 52 Remembers some S&M 47 Author Lev 8 Hydrocarbon ending 24 The fi rst Mr. 1-Down 53 Fire Island ___ 50 Name with Dan or San 9 Made a mark in Holly- 25 Baudelaire’s brother 57 Gay-dog owner of South 26 Otello villain Park 27 Papers of W.H. Auden 58 One under Sgt. Mat- 29 Marilyn ___ Savant lovich 32 Loads, to Gomer? 59 Fruity spread 33 R. Simmons helps you 60 Arena cry, to Lorca lose them 61 Marcel Proust’s friend 36 Spit it out, with confi - dence 37 Barbra’s Funny Girl guy Answer key is on page 70 38 To me, to Magnus Hirschfeld 39 NGLTF or HRC, e.g. 40 Lesbian activist Gittings 41 Cuddled 44 Religious women who don’t have sex with men
28 gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #44, June 2007 A Chance to Respond An Unprinted Letter to the Lloydminster Booster
By John Michael Fleming Opinion In November of last year, the local paper here in Lloydminster printed an opinion column written by question those who take advantage of this right and use it, and abuse it, to maintain intolerance and discrimination in one of its reporters, geared towards the gay marriage a modern civilized world by arguing for the denial or outright issue. Basically the reporter implied that gay rights removal of the rights of others. To quote Mr. Pare, “The hy- groups were using fear-mongering to advance their pocrisy of it all is too much for me to bear”. cause - making people who were opposed to gay In the early part of the 20th century, women fought for rights afraid to express their true opinion because and won the right to vote. In the 1960’s African Americans they didn’t want to be labeled as homophobic. fi nally achieved civil liberties after centuries of oppression. I wrote a response to this column being very careful to Now it seems gays are facing a similar battle. Some may offer an alternate view without being insulting, crude or an- say it is unreasonable to compare the fi ght for gay rights to gry. I waited several weeks but my letter was never printed. that of other groups. Yet, although we no longer tolerate When I inquired I was told only that all letters are printed at use of the “B” word to describe a woman, or the “N” word to the discretion of the editor. The letter was somewhat long describe a person of African heritage, use of the “F” word to but I was not told this was a reason. I had even made it describe a gay man is widely commonplace. Discrimination clear I would shorten it if necessary. The only conclusion on the basis of gender, race, religion, or age is not accepted I could infer was that the local paper was not interested in in our society. However, discrimination based on sexual providing a balanced view on controversial subjects. orientation is viewed as justifi ed. And there are those who would be content to see homosexuals eradicated from the Although I didn’t push the matter, it always bothered face of the earth. me that a newspaper would print articles but be unwilling to print public response to that article. So I checked out Many will say they do not understand the gay lifestyle, a GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine wondering if it would comment echoed by Mr. Pare. But is it really so important be possible to have my letter printed. And so, here it is. to understand something in order to tolerate it? I have dif- fi culty understanding the unwavering devotion displayed by persons of faith. But I tolerate and respect them because their beliefs do not interfere with my life. Mr. Pare states that people who are opposed to homosexu- ality and gay marriage should not let fear change their opin- I am not someone who normally takes an active part in ion. He is absolutely right. Too often fear is used to force the letter writing process. However, I decided to make an the beliefs of one group onto another. However, I would exception after reading Leo Pare’s Opinion column of Nov. add that people should also not let fear be the reason they 20. In that issue, Mr. Pare discussed the rights of those harbor this opposition. People are afraid that allowing gays opposed to homosexuality and same-sex marriage to express and lesbians to have the same rights and freedoms as them, their opinions on the matter. As a gay man living in Lloyd- will somehow undermine the stability of their own lives. But minster, I would like to offer my perspective. apart from offending your beliefs, how will it affect you? Will it cause gas prices to go ever higher? Will it prevent food First of all, let me say that I agree 100% with the primary from being placed on your table? Will it keep your children point of Mr. Pare’s column. In our democratic society we all from achieving a good education? enjoy the fundamental right to freedom of speech. Those persons opposed to homosexuality and same-sex marriage Gay Pride is not a means of fl aunting homosexuality in have the right to voice their opinion on these matters. Just the face of those with different views. It is a way of saying as those who consider men to be superior to women have that we exist, that we are a part of this world, and we are a right to state that a woman’s proper place is in the home not ashamed of who we are. As I drive around Lloydmin- as a caregiver to children. And just as those opposed to the ster, observing the numerous gay pride decals, logos, and Jewish faith have every right to claim the falsity of the Holo- billboards that Mr. Pare has grown tired of seeing, I wonder caust. Personally, I do not agree with any of these opinions. why this should be a problem (this is a sarcastic statement However, in respect of the right to free speech, I will concede since there are no such symbols anywhere in this town). that these persons have every right to express them. I would Gays and lesbians do not consider themselves better than hope that Mr. Pare, obviously a strong advocate of freedom other members of society. We see ourselves as equals and of expression, would make the same statement. are asking for no more than what every other member of My concern is not with the right to free speech. After all, society takes for granted. Like any other person, one of my where would we be as a society without it? It allows each of goals is to ensure that those I love and care about are well us to publicly say what we believe, without fear of reprisal. I looked after. The majority of employers, my own included,
gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #44, June 2007 29 require that couples be legally married in order to be eligible for many benefi ts, including health insurance. Being denied the right to marry would also deny me the ability to fully provide adequate care to my loved ones. Mr. Pare stated that he is tolerant of homosexuality and that his opinion is not based on prejudice. Although he makes no direct statement either way, my interpretation of his column tends to suggest he is opposed to same-sex mar- riage. If that is so, then it is certainly his right. However, I fail to see how having the opinion that a certain group of people are not deserving of the same rights as others consti- tutes tolerance and lack of prejudice. We live in a chaotic world, a world in which violence, hatred, and bloodshed taint each and every day. How is it then, that love between two people, any two people, can be met with such hostility and negativity? I respect the rights of all persons, including Mr. Pare, to have an opinion and to feel free to express that opinion openly. However, as long as those opinions involve denying me the same rights and freedoms as all members of society, then I will continue to be a gay rights activist screeching the words “It’s all about equality”.
John Michael Fleming Lloydminster, Alberta
30 gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #44, June 2007 Pride Calgary 2007
By Arthur McComish Community|Spotlight “Vanity and pride are different things, though the words are often used synonymously. A person more reasons to celebrate, Pride has become a bigger celebration each year. It also provides an opportunity to may be proud without being vain. Pride relates remember our collective history and the overcoming of more to our opinion of ourselves; vanity, to what our adversity. we would have others think of us.” - Jane Austen As Pride is one of the most important celebrations in Pride is the foundation from which the gay sensibility the queer community it’s best to be fully prepared for the has been built. Being proud of being queer has been the week. In past years it has been known to get a little wet catalyst behind a fl ourishing, safe and equal community. during the parade and street gala so bringing an umbrel- In this light it is only fi tting that we have a festival cel- la would not be such a bad idea. That being said, make ebrating our pride every year. Calgary’s week-long Pride it a small size umbrella because it is hoped the sun will festival will commence on June 10th with a parade down be blazing. The next step is to read the GayCalgary and Stephen Avenue, followed by an afternoon of celebration Edmonton Magazine Pride Guide thoroughly! A lot of ex- at the street gala in Olympic Plaza. citing activities will be taking place all over our city, and Gay pride developed almost 40 years ago on a sum- the Pride Guide will be your main source of information mer night in June of 1968. A group of drag queens were for what is going on. Some of the bigger events include enjoying a lovely time at the Stonewall Inn in Greenwich the Military Ball and the Xist Pride Dance, which are per- Village, New York City, when the police raided the place fect opportunities to meet new people and have fun with for the umpteenth time. Such raids were common in New old friends. York for any place where homosexuals were thought to Gay Pride in Calgary is only possible through a lot of have frequented. On this particular evening the clien- hard work, organization, fundraising and volunteers. tele of the pub would no longer tolerate being treated Between the parade, the street gala and all the other as second-class citizens and a riot ensued. The incident activities, the cost of gay pride can run into the tens of became known as the Stonewall Riots and forever more thousands of dollars. So if you see someone who is do- June has become the month in which gay communities nating their time, show them how proud you really are. around the world display their pride through celebration. Calgary Pride Week 2007 Pride in Calgary is extra special. To some people June 10th – 16th Calgary has had a reputation for being less progressive www.pridecalgary.ca with queer issues than in the larger cites like Toronto, or Montreal. We are considered conservative and small For more information on Gay Pride events in Calgary and when Toronto and Montreal are thought to have larger Edmonton, see our Pride Guide on page 14. queer populations and established areas for their gay communities. The size of our community may differ from that of Toronto or Montreal, and we may not have all our gay establishments in one block, but Calgary does not lack in heart or in substance. We too are proud queer citizens. Calgary Pride is an opportunity for our commu- nity to look inside itself and see the amazing people who live here, and to recognize the outstanding accomplish- ments by the community this past year. Pride has been celebrated in Calgary for the last seventeen years. It has grown substantially since it began. In the beginning, Pride was celebrated by only a few hundred Calgarians - last year’s Pride saw over two thousand in attendance. John Skorka, co–chair of the Pride Calgary Association, still remembers when Pride was just a small group celebrating with a police escort over the bridge into Bridgeland, and how protesters met them along the way. It has changed so much since then, notes Skorka. With more people, better venues, and
gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #44, June 2007 31 Mamma Mia! Smash musical back in Calgary by Popular Demand
By Jason Clevett Review | Theatre Mamma Mia is one of the most successful Broadway musicals in recent history. Since its London opening in 1999, over 30 million people have seen the production internationally in nine different languages. It’s the longest running Broadway show in Las Vegas, and a fi lm version is in pre-production set to star Meryl Streep and Pierce Brosnan. After a highly successful visit to Alberta in September 2005, the demand has been so high for its return that this summer it is back at the Jubilee Auditorium! Mamma Mia is an enchanting tale of love, laughter and friendship written by British playwright Catherine Johnson. ABBA composers Björn Ulvaeus and Benny Andersson were involved in the development of the show. The story takes place on a fi ctional Greek island, where the audience is encouraged to sing along to Mamma Mia, Donna owns and manages a taverna, catering to locals Dancing Queen and Waterloo. and tourists alike. Her daughter Sophie is engaged to a The strength of the show comes through in the fact young man named Sky. Sophie has long wondered who that the dialogue and storyline stand on their own, mere- her father is, but her mother refuses to discuss her past. ly enhanced by the music. Simply put, you do not have As her wedding approaches, Sophie wants to have her to be an ABBA fan in order to enjoy the production, but father walk her down the aisle, so she invites three men if you are, you’ll likely marvel at how they have added in that she discovers her Mother had relationships with 20 these classic songs. years prior. All three arrive and all sorts of tomfoolery occurs to a soundtrack of classic ABBA songs. Will Sophie discover who her father is? Will Donna fi nd love of her own? What will become of Sophie and Sky’s What a soundtrack it is. Just reading through the relationship? All of these questions will be answered dur- titles will makes the songs immediately start playing ing the course of the show. in your head. Money, Money, Money, Thank You For The Music, Dancing Queen, Gimme! Gimmie! Gimmie! (A The North American tour coming to Alberta has played Man After Midnight), S.O.S., Knowing Me, Knowing You over 2154 performances in 109 cities (with 68 repeat and Take a Chance On Me - 23 classic ABBA tunes are visits) and is currently booked through until September incorporated into the show, and during the encore fi nale 2008. The show’s success speaks volumes and Alberta will be no exception. Tickets are going fast so be a Super Trooper and Take a Chance On Mamma Mia. Mamma Mia! Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium, Calgary June 19 - July 1, 2007
Northern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium, Edmonton July 17 - 22, 2007
http://www.broadwayacrosscanada.com http://www.ticketmaster.ca
32 gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #44, June 2007 Music Review Wyrd Sisters and Michael Bublé
By Rob Diaz-Marino Review | Music “Wholly” by The Wyrd Sisters “Call Me Irresponsible” by Michael Bublé, Courtesy GirlsGo had hired the of Warner Music Wyrd Sisters to perform at the University of Calgary sev- Though I’ve never knowing- eral years ago, and just this ly listened to any of Michael March the group was in town Bublé’s music, I instantly again for a one-night perfor- recognized his voice from the mance as part of OutFest. I modern version of the song attended both events and de- “Save the Last Dance For veloped an instant liking for Me”. It has appeared in a the group. The lead singer number of movies, and has has a very spiritual mothering quality to her, but displays an been borrowed for several occasional naughty fl are that makes her hip and interesting. Drag shows right here in Calgary. Bublé’s fi rst album “Its Time” scored 7 X Platinum Certainly the CD contains a fi ne collection of their songs, in 2005, and this new album may very well follow a similar but it felt like a lot of the group’s personality was missing destiny. without their banter between songs. Without it, the songs didn’t seem to have as much impact on me as they did when It is easy to see why Michael Bublé’s rich voice has such I was sitting in the audience. Perhaps it means that I have a wide appeal. On this new album he performs a melding of been spoiled, and it just reinforces that there is no substi- contemporary and classic genres. He sings “The Best is Yet tute for seeing them live in concert. to Come”, “Call Me Irresponsible”, and “I’ve Got The World On A String”, adding a modern fl are to these laid-back clas- The CD carries themes of love and forgiveness, spiritual- sics. ity and equality. “High Horses” and “Skin” encourage us to stop focusing on the things that keep us apart, and concen- Although the classics may only appeal to an older genera- trate on what brings us together. “John Badertscher” tells tion, songs like “Comin’ Home Baby” and “Everything” might the tale of a man who refused to let his black friend stand appeal to a young crowd as well – they certainly made me sit alone outside of a church that rejects him for the color of his up and take notice. It shows that with such a good voice, he skin. does a fantastic job with a whole range of styles. The album fi nishes off with the very quirky song “Faucet” - one that people in the audience begged for at OutFest this Track List: year. This would be that healthy fl are of naughtiness I was 1) The Best Is Yet To Come talking about. The track opens with the line: “My sexual 2) It Had Better Be Tonight preference is my bathtub faucet, you might say that I’m in a 3) Me and Mrs. Jones water closet.” Now that’s got to put a smile on your face! 4) I’m Your Man 5) Comin’ Home Baby 6) Lost Track List: 7) Call Me Irresponsible 1) Mary (Wholly) 8) Wonderful Tonight 2) High Horses 9) Everything 3) The One That Never Was 10) I’ve Got The World On A String 4) The Angels Tell Her 11) Always On My Mind 5) John Badertscher 12) That’s Life 6) Falling Down 13) Dream 7) Unforgiven 8) When Ships Had Sails 9) Travel 10) Skin 11) Solitary Waves 12) Faucet
The “Wholly” album can be purchased at Wyrd Sisters performances, or at www.wyrdsisters.com.
gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #44, June 2007 33 Lucky in Leather Northern Chaps Continues to Grow in Edmonton
By Allison Brodowski Community |Spotlight It seems that in present times, the obliga- tory leather or kink reference has been played Northern Chaps, the community and the volunteers that make each year run smoothly. to death in popular culture without delving into anything beyond playful stereotypes. There are Besides the love, admiration, and resultant jealously exceptions within the fi rst season of queer as folk of your leather clad peers, previous years winners are re- and “Kink” airing on late night Showcase; both of quired to represent the leather community at: The Pride Parade, Northern Chaps Black Ice / AGM, the Imperial these examples are arguably mainstream in that Sovereign Court of the Wild Rose Coronation Ball, and they clearly are targeted to a certain audience this year’s Mr. and Ms. Edmonton Leather contest. In and hard to reach for those who are exploring for addition, the winning contestant is also required to at- the fi rst time. Local bars like The Eagle pres- tend one of Edmonton O Society’s events, one National ent a welcoming atmosphere in Calgary for those Leather Association: Edmonton chapter function and one ”in the life” and organizations such as Calgary Calgary community event. Legacy House present the opportunity to discover ”I think one of the main successes of the contest is the the community gradually. One such introduc- Club’s ability to provide an ambassador to Edmonton’s tory event coming up in June is the Mr. and Ms. Leather community, both here at home and in other cit- Leather contest. ies in Canada and the US.” Jackie Krantz found a wonderful introduction to the In a community that is gaining visibility rapidly, world of leather through her life partner. She also found partially due to the success of this contest and the suc- strong values within the community that lead her to a cesses of past events, tangible excitement is evident in way of life she could be proud of. ”Three words stick out Jackie’s vision of the future. in my mind when I think of Leather: Integrity, Honesty ”At the moment I believe this event is the largest and Respect.” Leather Contest in Western Canada. I know personally “Personally I feel the largest misconception about that producers of a much larger event have commented Leather Folk is we are all sadists that love to hurt or be of how well the event is run and how well it is attended hurt. From my experience, true Leather Folk are much for a city our size.” more than that; we are a group of people that work hard “I hope it will continue to thrive and grow.” for our community as a whole. They are caring, thought- ful and some of the most interesting people I have ever Northern Chaps presents met.” Black Solstice: Mr. and Ms. Edmonton Leather 2007 June 15th – 17th Having found great acceptance within the larger GLBT www.northernchaps.com community, the roots of the Mr. and Ms. Leather contest grew. The fi rst drummer contest was held in 1994, and a year later a weekend event called Black Solstice was started to coincide with Pride week. In 2001 the fi rst Mr. Edmonton Leather Contest was created by Northern Chaps, and in 2006 they incorporated the Ms. Edmonton Leather title as part of the event. “I personally see the contest as a venue for the Leather community to get together and be a part of selecting our cities Leather ambassadors,” said Krantz. A panel of fi ve judges from the gay, lesbian and kink community decide the winner. Potential contestants must be 18 years old, but all that needs to be done is to fi ll out an application and pay the $30 entrance fee. A potential contestant can also have a sponsor pay their entrance fee. The support for the contest comes from
34 gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #44, June 2007 Remembrance GORD WOIMA (1951 – 2007)
By Stephen Lock Individual |Spotlight Gord Woima was instrumental in the forma- tion and development, of the Alberta Rockies Gay McKernan. Gord convinced Greg to submit a design for a logo, an abstract bronco rider superimposed over abstract moun- Rodeo Association (ARGRA), devoting many years tains against a turquoise background. The logo is still in use, and considerable energy to the organization. and still as fresh today. His partner of 18 years, Bruce Chudobiak, recalled Gord The logo was used on all AGRA promotional material, in- initially was not terribly interested in the idea of a “gay cowboy cluding the organization’s newsletter, AGRACulture, a name group.” In fact, it was Bruce, with his farming background, Gord, who enjoyed puns, came up with. who was intrigued by the idea and decided to attend the initial meeting at Trax, a then popular gay Western bar, after seeing The original name for the organization was the Alberta Gay a poster suggesting the idea of a gay rodeo association. Gord Rodeo Association (AGRA) as the founding members envi- tagged along. sioned gay rodeo as one day being a provincial entity, not just a Calgary one. However, the Arizona Gay Rodeo Association, a “He was afraid it would end up being some sort of drag long time member of the International Gay Rodeo Association thing,” remembers Bruce. “The only exposure we’d had to the (IGRA), challenged Calgary’s use of the acronym, citing con- idea was the campy La Vegas drag rodeos in the late 70’s. cerns about confusion if two Gord just wasn’t interested in that.” separate chapters were known as “AGRA.” They were introduced to a group of Texas gay cowboys who had some footage of the Houston rodeo. Gord immediately After considerable discus- understood how such an organization would be an opportu- sion facilitated by Gord, and nity for the men and women in the Calgary community who many conversations at the in- came from a rural/ranch background to display and honour ternational level, the name of that background. the local chapter was changed to the Alberta Rockies Gay The prevailing ethos of the gay community in Calgary, like Rodeo Association (ARGRA) in most urban centres, was geared to trendy dance bars. Gener- 1995. ally speaking, the Calgary community spent considerable energy distancing itself from the “Cowtown” image. If one held Gord was diagnosed HIV onto one’s rural roots, there just wasn’t a place to fi t in. positive in 1993. As with many individuals struggling At the time there was an organization called CLUB Calgary with HIV, Gord had periods (Cowboys, Leather, & Uniform Buddies). Many of the men who when his health and energy identifi ed as ‘cowboy’ quickly came to view CLUB Calgary as were not good. The demands too ’Leather’. The rodeo association attracted many of these of being a letter carrier forced individuals as being a place, as Gord had hoped it would be, him to go on sick leave from Canada Post for 10 years. During to celebrate their rural roots and to be in an environment that the entire time, up to when he retired in 2004, Canada Post comfortably melded ‘rural’ with ‘gay’. stood by him and Bruce. Gord was with Canada Post for 29 “Look at the Canadian Rockies International Rodeo and years, and they ensured that Bruce, as Gord’s surviving part- ARGRA today,” enthuses Bruce. “To say it’s a success would ner, received a pension. be a huge understatement.” While recognizing the contribu- Prior to his diagnosis, Gord was also involved in the forma- tions of many people over the years, it is clear Bruce is proud tion of the Calgary Lesbian and Gay Political Action Guild of the role Gord played in that success. (CLAGPAG), where he and Bruce sat on the Steering Commit- Gord held several positions within ARGRA over the years. tee from 1989 to 1992. While he did not consider himself par- He served as Vice-President on the founding Board of Direc- ticularly “political,” he felt strongly that gay and lesbian people tors and, when the serving President stepped down after six had a responsibility to ensure they were treated equally. months, Gord became President. He also served as Trustee Prior to the 1997 Delwin Vriend Decision, sexual orientation for many years. was not covered by provincial human rights law. Up until that It is perhaps as Trustee that Gord made some of his most case, it was legal in Alberta to deny accommodation, refuse important contributions to ARGRA. The role of a trustee was service, or to fi re someone (or not hire them to begin with) for to serve as a liaison between the local organization and the being gay, lesbian, or bisexual. International Gay Rodeo Association based out of the US. Gord’s doctor, Dr. Ruth Simkin, approached him and sev- Through his job at Canada Post working the Inglewood eral others in the community to create an organization focused route, and his own interest in the arts, Gord got to know sev- on the political goal of equality, and especially on amending eral artists and musicians in Calgary. One of these was Greg the Individual Rights Protection Act to include sexual orienta-
gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #44, June 2007 35 tion as a protected characteristic. Gord’s humour, perspec- tive, and pragmatic approach assisted greatly in the Guild’s development. He possessed a great interest in art and music and while he tried his hand at painting, it was music that he enjoyed most. Gord held a degree in recording engineering and made several recordings of various local choirs, including the Calgary Men’s Chorus, for CBC Radio. His favourite instrument was the guitar, of which he owned several. Following his diagnosis, and having witnessed the effects of depression within his own family and on himself, Gord decid- ed to pack as much living into his life as he could. As Bruce points out, “he got a kick out of some of the oddest things, and he was going to enjoy what life he had left.” That life continued for far more years than Gord likely an- ticipated and Gord made the most of them. His humour was of the type some people couldn’t grasp, so showing up at rodeo events wearing a bright red silk kimono over top of his cowboy gear tended to them. In honour of his wishes, no funeral was held. As with many gay men of his generation, Gord had attended far too many funerals, fi nally reaching a point where he simply could no longer bring himself to attend them. He wished to spare his friends and family that. Instead, a memorial is being planned. “Memorials are different,” notes Bruce. “They are about cel- ebrating and remembering and sharing stories; about friends coming together. Funerals are about saying goodbye. That is something Gord always appreciated – friends and good times.”
36 gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #44, June 2007 Canadian Explosion! A slice of Canadiana at Stage West
By Jason Clevett Review | Theatre One Tin Soldier. Snowbird. American Woman. Signs. Good Mother. These are just a few of the truly great songs in Canadian music history. Following on the heels of the British Invasion and California Dreaming series, Stage West pays tribute to our own country with Canadian Explosion!, running until July 1st. The show takes its audience on a musical journey from the early 50’s doo-wop style of The Four Lads to classic 70’s rock with The Guess Who and Neil Young, all the way up to current musical artists such as Nelly Furtado and Celine Dion. What is also cool about the show is realizing just how many songs are credited to Canada. When I fi rst saw the song list I wasn’t sure I would recognize most of the fi rst half of the show, but I found myself bobbing my head and sing- ing along once I realized that I actually knew the song! Vocally the 12-person cast is in fi ne form. The female cast members really throw themselves into tributes to Jann Ar- den, Sarah McLachlan, Susan Aglukark, K.D. Lang, Alanna Myles, Alanis Morrisettee and Avril Lavigne. When fi ve of Hell and Bryan Adams’ Summer of 69 are major parts of the them join together to perform Amanda Marshall’s I Believe, Canadian conscience. it is an absolute showstopper. This is followed up by a goofy “It is really cool. Doing this show, most of the songs I tribute to the Barenaked Ladies that I am sure the guys am doing, I’ve met a lot of the original rock greats. In the themselves would be impressed with. Timothy French’s cho- past few years (thanks to Idol) I have gotten to meet a ton reography is some of the best I have seen in the three years of people. I’ve met both Randy Bachman and the boys from I’ve been covering Stage West. Guess Who, The Barenaked Ladies, a lot of these Canadian Canadian Idol fans will also see a familiar face in the bands,” said Walpole. “One of the fi rst things we did in show. Aaron Walpole, who placed third in Season 3 of Cana- rehearsal for this show was sit down with some of the guys dian Idol behind Rex Goudie and Calgary’s Melissa O’Neal, who lived around here. When I am up on stage I am trying to makes his return to Stage West. He was previously in Damn pay tribute to these great Canadians and put on a show. It’s Yankees here in Calgary before his Idol success. a blast doing this because most of the music is timeless, and that is why they are in it.” ”I’ve been a professional actor and singer for a decade now, so I am used to doing this type of performance. I The food is always a high point when going to Stage West. am kind of coming back to this now after Idol,” he told Once again they have put together a solid buffet menu for GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine after the show. “Ca- the show. The highlights include a delicious broiled Atlantic nadian Idol was cool, knowing that on the other side of the salmon with maple whisky glaze and Mexican friend pork camera there were two or three million people watching, but with jalapeño and lime glaze. Not to mention the ton of des- I perform the same in front of fi ve people as I would in front serts. It’s a good thing we only go to Stage West fi ve times of the entire country; I try to put on the best show I can. On a year because the dessert menu is often one of the best in stage is the only place where I feel where I belong, I am hav- Calgary. A recent addition was…well…awkward new cutlery, ing a blast and loving it.” but really nice dinnerware inscribed with their own logo. Even now Walpole and With Canada day fast approaching, Canadian Explosion! others in the cast fi nd is a great way to remember our country’s musical history. themselves in awe of the You will fi nd yourself wanting to clap and sing along as you material they get to sing remember all of these great songs that we have spent the on a nightly basis. Clas- years listening to. sic songs like The Guess Canadian Explosion! Who’s No Sugar Tonight, Stage West Theatre Restaurants Joni Mitchell’s Big Yel- April 26th to July 1st low Taxi, Stompin Tom www.stagewestcalgary.com Conners’ Alberta Bound, Trooper’s Raise a Little
gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #44, June 2007 37 Fundraising Photos ARGRA Dance - Calgary
Photos by Steve Polyak and Rob Diaz Marino of GayCalgary.com Magazine AFQOL Gala at Twisted Element - Calgary
38 gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #44, June 2007 ISCRW In-Town Show at the Roost ISCRW Out of Town Show at Woody’s - Edmonton
gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #44, June 2007 39 ISCRW Coronation Ball - Edmonton
40 gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #44, June 2007 ISCWR Nunsense at The Roost - Edmonton ISCWR Brunch at Prism - Edmonton
gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #44, June 2007 41 SHARP Foundation: Art of Hope Auction Womonspace Dance and Silent Auction - Edmonton at Art Mode - Calgary
42 gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #44, June 2007 gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #44, June 2007 43 Edmonton Pride So Big you Might Pee…A Little!
By Jason Clevett Community |Spotlight Inside jokes aside, one of the biggest events of the year for Edmonton’s gay community is just days June 23rd is held at the Citadel theatre - most of our events are centered downtown. This year we are going to have a fun away. From June 15th to the 24th, the LGBT com- casino and martini bar at the dance to add a little twist for munity celebrates its pride in Edmonton with 10 people who want to something to do besides dance.” days chock full of special events. The City of Edmonton is heavily involved in Pride as well. Things kick off with the Pride Awards at City hall on the Last year Mayor Stephen Mandel was the Parade Marshall 15th and culminate with the dance at the Citadel Theatre on and will be attending this year’s parade and celebration. the 23rd. Edmonton Pride Society director Ken MacDonald, On June 17th, Mayor Mandel will host the Mayor’s Pride who has been involved with planning the event for the past Brunch, a fundraiser for GLBT youth camp Camp fYrefl y, at three years, told GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine about St. Andrews Centre. In addition, out alderman Michael Phair the cornerstone events: The Pride Awards, the Parade, The is hosting a Barbecue at Edmonton Transit on June 18th. Celebration on the Square, and the Dance. The community’s relationship with the city has come a long way from when former mayor Bill Smith refused to declare “The Pride Awards kick off Pride week. They are held at Pride Week. City Hall every year and are a chance for the community to recognize their own. It’s been going on for quite some time, ”The support has happened with the current mayor, so since the 1990’s. After the event we have the raising of the this is the third year that we have had mayoral support. Pride Flag at city hall and then a reception. It has good at- With the previous mayor, he refused to proclaim Pride Week tendance and is a great way to recognize people who have and there was a closed acceptance of the event. Three years done a lot for the community,” he said. The next day is ago with the election of Mayor Mandel, he had no hesitation parade day and the celebration in Churchill square. in proclaiming Pride Week. He participates in the parade - last year he was the marshal and this year he will be at- “The parade itself is growing and we are getting more tending,” explained MacDonald. entries then we have in the past. After a few years we started going down Jasper Avenue, which we go down now “Michael Phair has been incredibly supportive in the 15 to Churchill square. We are the fi rst festival of the summer years he has been on city council. He focuses on different at the square and recognized as one of the major festivals civic departments every year. This year it is pride with Tran- in Edmonton. Last year was the biggest year we had for sit, last year it was an evening at City Hall and the previous the parade and festival as we were lucky to have a great year it was the police commission. It has been very public sunny day, which lead to about 5000 people attending at and visible support from the civic side. It gives us legitimacy the square, which is a huge turnout for us. The buzz really and shows the GLBT community that we are welcome, ac- happened out of last year, and a lot of people who didn’t at- cepted and an important part of the community.” tend wished they had. This year we expect to be even bigger. There is a lot of great local entertainment as well. As with many communities in Alberta, there is a redneck reputation to Edmonton. However MacDonald stated that “The mayor reads the proclamation of pride at the begin- the citizens of Edmonton have been open and supportive as ning of the Celebration on the Square. The Pride Dance on the years have progressed.
44 gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #44, June 2007 ”The fi rst few years we did have people who were on the parade route causing some negative tension. Last year I didn’t see anyone protesting and on the square we had no incidents. …We get a lot of positive reactions from people who ask what is going on as they walk by. I think people are starting to accept it as a cultural element to the city of Edmonton.” Trying to put together a Pride Festival is a huge undertak- ing. In addition to the parade, festival, dance, and awards the pride society also puts on a one-day fi lm festival, and co- ordinates with other groups who are offering their own pride events to ensure that they are on the calendar. MacDonald gave us a look at how they are able to pull off the event, and a hint about the secret to their success. ”The board has been a returning group of people get- ting involved, so that creates good continuity from year to year. We’ve have really good support in the last couple of years from the city and that certainly helps. We are funded through the Edmonton Art Council, who provides a grant to us each year, as well as to many other festivals. So we are recognized as a major festival in the city of Edmonton. ….In the two years I have been on board, it has grown tremen- dously.” As they have improved, the society also has laid the groundwork for continuing expansion of Pride. ”One of the things we did last year was hire on an event coordinator. Prior to then it was entirely volunteer run, which was great, but you get to a certain point of critical mass and need some labour to move beyond to the next level. We re-engaged that person this year which has really allowed us to grow the sponsorship and advertising base. It has allowed us to engage people more [widely] across the community and get them involved,” said MacDonald. “We are a very low key, grassroots organization that is here to put on an event for the community. People put their egos at the door and do what is best for the community and focus on what we can do. We try to engage the community with things like having a focus group session earlier this year to ask what worked and what didn’t last year, and made changes based on that feedback. We are starting to get more formal by having staff on the event. If you look at the bigger events in Toronto and Vancouver they have full time year-round staff, and we are moving in that direction and laying a structure around that.” This year is poised to be a breakthrough, history-making week in Edmonton. With large crowds expected, a number of vendors at the celebration, and plenty of events throughout the community, its an exciting time. If you haven’t attended before, or not for a long time, this year is your chance to re- experience Pride in Edmonton. ”I would encourage people to check out the events. Most of them are free so they are accessible to everyone in our com- munity. It is a hugely diverse event this year as well. If you haven’t been to pride for awhile this is the time to come back and check it out.” Edmonton Pride June 15th – 24th, 2007 www.prideedmonton.org
gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #44, June 2007 45 What defines a leatherman?
By Kevin Alderson, Ph.D., R. Psych. Queer Quest Gay leather culture gets itself noticed. It is con- appearance of rule by one spicuous, blatantly sexual, and clearly not at- partner over the other. tempting to pass as heterosexual or be respectably 2. Role playing. homosexual. [1] 3. Consensuality, that is, My fi rst impressions of leathermen came from raun- voluntary agreement to enter chy masturbations while lusting over Tom of Finland and into the interaction. Etienne drawings. The presentation of large muscles and unrealistically huge genitals made me salivate more than 4. Mutual defi nition, i.e., I care to admit (crap, I think I just admitted it). Anyway, a shared understanding that what I learned then has stuck in my mind ever since: sym- the activities constitute SM or bols of leather and leather culture “accentuate hypermas- some similar term. culine forms of sexuality.” [2] 5. A sexual context, though I vividly remember the fi rst time I actually saw leather- the concept that SM is always men at a gay bar. It was back in 1993, the year I came sexual is not shared by all out. I was both awed and afraid at the same time while participants.” [8] conjuring up fantasies of what these men do sexually, which I assumed was to whip the living crap out of each At the core of SM is creating power differentials via role- other until the top had fully realized his pleasures – or playing within a sexual encounter or within a relationship. until the bottom passed out from the pain. What were your [9] Some individuals live out a SM script on a full-time fi rst thoughts when you saw gay guys in leather? What are basis within their relationship. [10] Although both sys- your thoughts now? tems that provide diagnostic criteria for mental problems (DSM in North America and ICD-10 throughout most of Truth is, the actual scene is nothing compared to what the world) list SM as a mental illness, studies do not sug- we might envision it to look like. Leathermen are part of gest that SM practitioners suffer from a mental disorder. an established subculture [3] within the gay male com- [11, 12] On the contrary, SM practitioners appear to be munity who eroticize leather garb or symbols. Collectively, emotionally and psychologically well balanced, accept- they form a leather social network or community and they ing of their sexual orientation, and socially well adjusted. practice leathersex. [4] Let’s look at each component of [13] As is common practice in psychiatric diagnostic this defi nition. systems, practices that are not understood are often seen as mental disorders instead of as extreme variations of For many leathermen, leather acts as a sexual fetish [5] usual behaviour, or simply viewed as harmless “kink.” The – the smell, texture, colour, and fi t are a turn on. This is leather community is not small, and obviously if individu- dissimilar to the reasons drag queens dress in women’s als were maliciously hurting each other, we would hear clothing, but similar to the motives that transvestites have about it! for cross dressing (transvestites are heterosexual males who enjoy cross dressing as a fetish). Leather is not a SM is about recreation and mutual enjoyment, often fetish for all leathermen, however, and it means more than performed in a scripted roleplay. Leather roleplays have this for the vast majority. For most leathermen, their dress safeguards built into them, including code words for when and affi liation with the leather community is also about the action is getting too intense or not intense enough. A enjoying varying degrees of sadomasochism (SM). That is simple system, for example, is for the bottom to say “red” the part of leather culture that is least understood. Social to stop the scene, “yellow” to cool it, and “green” to inten- scientists have not helped much either: “all the large sur- sify the action in that scene. The top has the responsibility vey studies of sexual behaviour have ignored SM behavior to respect the boundaries (which they do) and to be of ser- almost completely.” [6] vice to the bottom. SM sex is about mutual respect, caring, and compassion. I don’t want to suggest, however, that SM According to one article, it is easier to describe what SM is not also about pain for many sadomasochists, but it is is not. “It does not entail violence and it is not non-con- pain that is eroticized and that is enjoyed to the level of the sensual.” [7] In fact, the common adage used within the bottom’s pain-pleasure threshold. [14] leather community is “safe, sane, and consensual.” SM generally consists of fi ve components, but all of them do Research has shown that there are some differences not need to be present at the same time: between how gay and straight men enjoy SM. Gay men prefer leather outfi ts, anal intercourse, wrestling, dildos, 1. “The appearance of dominance and submission; the
46 gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #44, June 2007 rimming, special equipment, and uniform scenes. Straight (Glenn, age 46). [23]. men, on the other hand, are more into being masked and Dr. Alderson is an assistant professor of counselling psychology at the blindfolded, gagged, verbally humiliated, and whipped with University of Calgary who specializes in gay and lesbian studies. He also a cane. They prefer to wear rubber outfi ts, straightjackets, maintains a private practice. He can be contacted by confidential email at or to cross dress. They are also into vaginal intercourse. [email protected], or by confidential voice mail at (403) 605-5234. Overall, gay men prefer hypermasculinity and straight men prefer humiliation. [15] References: 1) Graham, M., & Litt, M. (1998). Identity, place, and erotic community Only about 5 percent of individuals who enjoy SM do so within gay leather culture in Stockholm. Journal of Homosexuality, 35(3 4), 163 183. exclusively. [16] There are no studies that inform us as to [quote from p. 163]. how many engage in SM behaviour, but two experts in this 2) Mosher, C. M., Levitt, H. M., & Manley, E. (2006). Layers of leather: The identity formation of leathermen as a process of transforming meanings of masculinity. fi eld suggest that it may be about 10 percent of the general Journal of Homosexuality, 51(3), 93 123. [quote from p. 97]. population. [17] 3) Peacock, B., Eyre, S. L., Quinn, S. C., & Kegeles, S. (2001). Delineating differences: Sub communities in the San Francisco gay community. Culture, Health & Findings from a qualitative study revealed that the core Sexuality, 3(2), 183 201. idea associated with the leather community was its use of 4) Mosher et al. (2006). “signifi ers of heightened masculinity to fortify itself against 5) Weinberg, T. S. (2006). Sadomasochism and the social sciences: A review sexist and heterosexist stigma from both heterosexual and of the sociological and social psychological literature. Journal of Homosexuality, 50(2 3), 17 40. gay cultures – that as gay men they are effeminate and 6) Moser, C., & Kleinplatz, P. J. (2006). Introduction: The state of our knowl- therefore weak.” [18] Other fi ndings of lesser import were edge on SM. Journal of Homosexuality, 50(2 3), 1 15. [quote from p. 2]. about the following: 7) Ibid [quote from p. 3]. 1. Communicating sexual roles in an expedient manner. 8) Ibid [quote from p. 4]. Although the “master” and “slave” persona exist within the 9) Cross, P. A., & Matheson, K. (2006). Understanding sadomasochism: An leather community, these terms are more commonly as- empirical examination of four perspectives. Journal of Homosexuality, 50(2/3), 133- 166. sociated with SM in general. The terms “daddy” and “boy” 10) Dancer, P. L., Kleinplatz, P. J., & Moser, C. (2006). 24/7 SM slavery. Jour- are strongly rooted in leathersex. nal of Homosexuality, 50(2/3), 81-101. 2. Marginalization in both gay and straight communities 11) Moser & Kleinplatz (2006). leading to greater freedom. 12) Reiersol, O., & Skeid, S. (2006).The ICD diagnoses of fetishism and sado- masochism. Journal of Homosexuality, 50(2/3), 243-262. 3. Belonging to a “brotherhood.” 13) Weinberg (2006). 4. Celebrating closeness between men while emphasiz- 14) Ibid. ing trust and loyalty. 15) Nordling, N., Sandnabba, N. K., Santtila, P., & Alison, L. (2006). Differ- ences and similarities between gay and straight individuals involved in the sadomas- ochistic subculture. Journal of Homosexuality, 50(2 3), 41 57. 5. Exchange of power in scripted sexual roles. 16) Ibid. 6. Embracing or incorporating masculinity into a gay 17) Moser & Kleinplatz (2006). identity. 18) Mosher et al. (2006). [quote from p. 116]. Another aspect of the leather subculture is that it is a 19) Peacock et al. (2001). community unto itself and it is organized. As many infor- 20) Moser & Kleinplatz (2006). mants in one study reported, the leather community has 21) Graham & Litt (1998). [quote from p. 167]. many offi cial leaders, they take care of their members, and 22) Ibid. they organize many AIDS fundraisers. [19] The Folsom 23) Alderson, K. (2000). Beyond coming out: Experiences of positive gay iden- Street Fair held in San Francisco, for example, is an event tity. Toronto, ON: Insomniac Press. [quote from p. 162]. that draws 400,000 people per year to celebrate their in- terest in and support of Leather and sadomasochistic (SM) interests. [20] Some writers view an interest in the leather culture as the fi nal stage in a gay man’s progression in his search for something new. This search for something new centres on developing interests in “more radical forms of sexual activ- ity.” [21] Anecdotally, this appears to be true given that the average age of patrons in a Stockholm leather bar is about 40, [22] and my observations of leather bar patrons in Calgary, Montreal, and Berlin would suggest similar fi ndings. It is easy to fear something you have not experienced. I am reminded of the words of one of my interviewees in Beyond Coming Out: “Leather relationships are like any relationship: there are many things that need to be negoti- ated and agreed upon. We still have to go through the relationship dynamics of being in love and settling in and making the adjustment to live together. My friends in the leather community live normal lives like everybody else.”
gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #44, June 2007 47 Thinking of refinancing? Here is some expert insight to help you avoid mistakes
By www.GayRealEstate.com Real Estate | Advice Many who bought homes during the peak of the housing boom used high-leverage, high-risk loans in necessarily mean that you should not refi nance anyway. If order to keep up with the infl ationary environment of you can save enough money over the period of time that you sky-high prices. Along the way, mortgage lenders and plan to service the loan to more than compensate for the penalties, then go ahead and do it anyway. But fi rst crunch banks became more creative (some would say down- the numbers with a fi nancial professional, lender, or lawyer right reckless) at fi guring out how to qualify people to make sure that paying the fees in order to switch loans is for loans that actually exceeded their reasonable and worth the price you’ll pay. manageable monthly budgets. Try Not to Borrow or Pay Too Much Some bought more house than they could afford and used loans that did not require immediate repayment of princi- The mistake that is most often cited by homeowners and pal, because they intended to fl ip the home and make a fast mortgage experts is twofold. Consumers tend to pay too profi t to pay off the loan. Others fi gured that if they could many closing costs, or refi nance so often that they negate get into a home before prices got even higher, they could their positive fi nancial savings by accumulating additional play catch up until their own careers or salaries grew, so expenses that it can take many years to erase. they opted for loans with low introductory “teaser” rates that Get a written estimate of your refi nance closing costs, and adjusted higher later. then fi gure out how much money you will save each month But if their strategies failed to unfold as planned – for by lowering your monthly mortgage payment. example, if the “fl ipper” got stuck holding the property as If you can save $200 a month, you will save $1200 a year. prices plummeted or the person on a fast career track sud- But if your closing costs are $3,000 and you only plan to denly become unemployed – then these borrowers wound up stay in the home for another two years, you won’t break in a precarious fi nancial position. For that reason, housing even. On the other hand, if you plan to sell after 10 years analysts predict that between 1 million and 3 million Ameri- you’ll save $9,000 – even after subtracting out your closing can homes will be foreclosed upon in 2007. costs. Meanwhile, the smart money is moving into reliable, pre- Do the math and you’ll avoid running the risk of going dictable, affordable conventional fi xed-rate 30-year mortgag- into the red while trying to get back in the black. Refi nanc- es. These loans have no risky bells and whistles, and with ing too often can be counterproductive because of the fi xed rates hovering near their historical lows, they represent expenses involved, but refi nancing wisely can save you lots solid value that will sustain over the long haul, regardless of of cash. how high fl uctuating rates may climb. Shop Around and then Lock Your Loan Many homeowners with expensive or high-risk mortgage loans are refi nancing, and it can be a very wise move. But Take time to browse around and comparison shop, be- there are common pitfalls to avoid. As homeowners refi nance cause lenders are highly competitive. You may want to stick to these less expensive loans en masse, many will make with your same lender. But even so it is a good idea to get mistakes along the way. After all, haste makes waste, and quotes from other mortgage companies, as a bargaining tool this is especially true when borrowing substantial amounts to get your lender to offer you a preferential rate or discount- of money. ed closing costs. To avoid the most common errors, here are some helpful Once you’ve established who your lender will be, decide insights from mortgage experts: what interest rate you are comfortable with and lock in the rate to avoid the risk that it might rise and “run away from Don’t Forget to Check for Pre-payment Penalties you”. Get a written confi rmation from your lender that the Before you exert any energy preparing to refi nance, fi rst interest rate has been locked, to minimize any confusion or study the fi ne print of your existing mortgage agreement miscommunication. – or have an attorney review it for you – and make sure Then sit back and relax, because the heavy lifting is fi n- than your loan does not have a pre-payment penalty clause. ished. These pesky legal stipulations automatically sound alarm bells if you pay off your loan early, and you’ll be forced to pay a penalty to your lender. While most loans don’t have pre-payment penalties, it pays to be sure before you bother with any refi nancing efforts. If your loan does have a pre-pay penalty, that does not
48 gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #44, June 2007 Letter from the Publisher, Continued from page 8 invasion that will go away if ignored? I had dismissed this whole issue as a crock of nonsense black. Though I don’t think either side is in the right. being spread by a couple of venomous queens (by way of I can understand that in the past, Gay Pride Parades were that psychological phenomenon I mentioned earlier). Then a way of pushing back after we had been pushed ourselves someone fi nally had the insight to bring their anti-youth too many times – to spite all the horrible things that people sentiment to rational words. This is good, fi nally something have said and done to us because of our sexuality, and that can be answered to. responding with an overzealous liking for ourselves. Some The younger generation has no concept of the horror the may call it narcissistic; but it was a product designed to older generation went through during the AIDS epidemic; bolster our self esteem with unnatural praise in the face of what it was like when gay-bashings happened frequently, or unfair and irrational threats to our rights and our existence. when one had to worry about getting arrested if the bar one Don’t get me wrong – it was very necessary and served its was in got raided by the police. They feel the gay youth have purpose to get us through a time where taking the abuse no appreciation for the struggles and sacrifi ces past genera- would be too crippling for us to save ourselves. I certainly tions made to bring them the rights and freedoms they enjoy recommend maintain a respectful remembrance of all those today. struggles that brought us where we are today, and continu- ing to push until we are no longer in danger or living in fear. To some extent they feel jealous they could not enjoy these But we can’t stay in that self-gratifying mindset forever; the same freedoms when they were young, but they cannot butterfl y has to emerge from its cocoon. The stereotypical overcome the fears and insecurities that prevent them from self-absorbed homo routine gets tiring, even to other homos. enjoying those rights now. To them, this baggage is seen as an integral part of being gay, and they will lash out until Redneck, homophobe, breeder; these are words we use to they impose the same limitations on the more liberal youth. describe people who are too proud of their heterosexuality It’s a vicious cascade, but an entirely natural one; the same to accept that we are different. A chauvinist is so proud of phenomenon that perpetuates homophobia in the young their gender that they feel superior to women. A suprema- straight generation. It is the reason why society takes time cist is so proud of their race that they think they are better to change. than all others. So deriving a similar sense of pride and elit- ism from our homosexuality cannot be the answer for us in Don’t forget that gay youth are facing their own set of the long-term if we are truly interested in equality. problems right now – squaring off against conservative school systems, and fi nding their place in a world with I treat sexuality as an immutable aspect of who you are. ever-growing possibilities. Why do some of the older genera- It is not right or wrong, good or bad, nor is it even black and tion want to offl oad their problems onto youth, when they white in a lot of cases - it just is the way it is. So when I say are already carrying their own unique burdens? Further- that I’m proud to be gay, what I really mean is that I feel a more, why would the older generation want anyone else to calm and balanced liking for myself - I don’t feel high and go through the same hardships that they did. Logically it mighty, as if being gay makes me somehow superior; I don’t makes no sense, but emotionally it draws on our fear of be- feel a vengeful sense of entitlement because of the past, nor ing displaced; becoming obsolete. do I feel a need to brainwash others to fi ght for my cause. No matter what, youth have an upper hand: they don’t die When I strip away all the layers of history and politics, I as soon. The choice is up to the older generation – you can feel a love and acceptance of myself and all others; I em- push us out and let the gay community die with you. Or brace the fact that I am different, and I feel the need to bring you can welcome us with open arms, be our mentors, and in others to understand me. We cannot all share our differ- that way become a part of our future. ences, but we can share our experiences. If a concise word exists for this feeling, I have yet to learn it. But I hope it can If you’re looking rather to express your opinion, write a letter to become the natural next step in the evolution of Gay “Pride”. the publisher by E-mailing [email protected]. If you’ve got something good to say about someone or something, then that’s Holding Youth Back awesome! If you’ve got something bad to say about someone or This month the words fi nally left someone’s lips – confi r- something…well, just try to keep those claws sheathed! mation of something I have suspected for some time now. At the outset of my entrance to gaydom I could sense the negative connotation around the word “twink”, and I was quick to distance myself from any possible association with it. But these days Steve and I are noticing some members of the older generation fostering a growing resentment toward gay youth in general, and “twink” is the blanket term being applied in a lot of cases. According to the comments I’ve heard, twinks are faceless, mindless, interchangeable and entirely disposable. They are all bar-fl ies, e-kids, and hustlers; if you take one home you will likely fi nd your valuables missing the next morn- ing. It’s almost as if people forget they were once young too – that lots of people making a difference in the community today, in fact, started out as twinks themselves. Shouldn’t this be a sign to start helping shape the young minds in our community, rather than treating them like an unwelcome
gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #44, June 2007 49 AS THE WORLD SITS BACK
By Stephen Lock Politics Over the years there have been various agen- the illegal homosexual groups, they are only marginally safer. cies established to deal with human rights viola- The authorities frequently ferret out such houses, arrest all tions worldwide – Amnesty International, which who are inside, and anyone involved in ‘aiding and abetting’ deals with political prisoners and prisoners of them. conscience, the United Nations, Human Rights Doug Ireland reported the arrest and treatment of one Iraqi Watch, and others. activist recently. “Hani was handcuffed, blindfolded, and taken to a police in- While the records of these agencies is not perfect – they terrogation center. While he was in custody, Hani was beaten are, after all, human endeavors – there is a certain expecta- and tortured for several hours. ‘The police used a screwdriver, tion they will step up and address a situation; especially when which they pounded into Hani’s legs with a hammer - some- that situation is so egregious that to sit back and not speak is times the police use electric drills for this sort of torture - and a violation of the very principles they were created to uphold. they also beat him badly,’ Hili said.” The situation facing gay men and transsexuals, but also Ali Hili is a spokesperson for Iraqi LGBT, a homosexual ad- lesbians and bisexuals, in Iran and Iraq is deadly. Homosex- vocacy group within Iraq, and the arrested man, known only uals and transsexuals are being persecuted, killed, arrested as “Hani,” was the communications offi cer for the Baghdad and detained in terrible conditions, even tortured, yet we do chapter of the group. not hear any hue and cry arising from any quarter except the odd GLBTQ organization like Outrage UK or groups within the The United States makes considerable noise about its sup- countries that are working on behalf of GLBTQ citizens. Such port of human rights, holding itself out as a beacon of equality organizations are, themselves, at severe risk and ”illegal”. and justice in the world. Doug Ireland, a well-known gay journalist who primarily While Hani was being interrogated and tortured, he said “gets the word out” via his own blog (www.direland.typepad. he heard several voices speaking American-accented English com) and a Yahoo group (http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ outside the interrogation room. He reportedly requested he direland/), has frequently reported on the situation facing be allowed to speak to one of the American soldiers to explain Iranian and Iraqi gays. why he was being detained and, he hoped, rescued. He was refused access to the Americans. The world paid brief attention a year or so ago when two teenagers were publicly hanged. It was never clear if the The American authorities in Iraq are aware of that country’s boys were executed for being gay (and lovers) or if they were persecution of homosexuals and have chosen to view it as ”an executed for sodomizing a 13-year old boy, as the authorities internal matter.” The murderous campaign of “sexual cleans- claimed. ing” being waged by hard-line religious elements followed a fatwa issued in 2005 by the Grand Ayatollah Ali al-Sistani, The situation has not improved in either state, both of the Iranian born-and-trained spiritual leader of Iraqi Shia which are heavily Islamist. Muslims. It should be noted here, that a distinction is being made Ayatollah Sistani’s fatwa led to the creation of anti-gay between those states which are “Islamist” and those states death squads by the military arm of the Supreme Council for which are “Islamic.” Islamist states are, essentially, totalitar- the Islamic Revolution in Iraq (SCIRI), the Badr Corps. The ian theocracies. SCIRI is the most powerful political Shia group in Iraq and is Iraq continues to harass, beat, arrest, torture and kill ho- now the cornerstone of the current US-approved Iraqi govern- mosexuals. If someone even so much as ‘appears’ to be gay, ment. they can be arrested, interrogated, beaten or even tortured. The situation in Iran is, if anything, more bizarre. Homosexual activists are particularly targeted, according to some reports. The late Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini - leader of the 1979 Iranian Revolution and father of the Islamic Republic of Iran Many gay Iraqis and Iranians live in constant fear and - issued a fatwa which declared that sex-change surgery was many will not – or cannot – leave their homes for fear of be- permitted since it was not mentioned as forbidden in the ing targeted. It is not hard to imagine the dire straits such Qu’ran. individuals fi nd themselves in due to this culture of ”honour”, whereby a gay son or lesbian daughter (to say nothing of a On the surface, this would appear to be relatively enlight- transsexual offspring) is seen as a dishonour to the family. ened, despite Iran’s hard stance on all things sexual and Now add an at least tacit approval of so-called ”honour kill- its treatment and attitude towards women. It would be, if ings”. applied to transsexuals seeking corrective surgery. How- ever, given the prevailing - dare one say overriding - attitude If they are lucky enough to get to a safe house operated by
50 gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #44, June 2007 towards any expression of sexuality deemed deviant (and in the street, and rapes, either therefore criminal) - such as homosexuality - this supposedly by the Basiji, the para-police enlightened view has been bizarrely and terrifyingly corrupted. force used by the Iranian regime to enforce morality, As Ireland writes: those posing as Basiji, or by “Because homosexuality is a capital crime in Iran, and the police themselves. because the regime of President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad has To leave Iran is complicated been engaged in what he has called a ’cultural revolution‘ that and expensive, even if one is involves highly-organized persecutions targeting feminists and applying for refugee status. homosexuals, the choice presented to Iranian same-sexers Even that process is fraught [sic] is often a stark and unpleasant one...” with pitfalls, corruption, In short, if you are a gay Iranian, and are discovered, you and bureaucracy. Because face a death sentence. A signifi cant number of gay men reports of the persecutions reportedly have chosen sexual reassignment surgery instead, rarely gets to the West, refu- even though they are not transsexual. It is seen as a viable gee claims are often seen as option to undergo the surgery in order to continue to be able suspect, especially those of to have sex with men. Of course, as an Iranian woman who transsexuals seeking to leave has sex with anyone not her husband, other penalties come a country that, in the eyes of into play. The Iranian authorities take a very dim view of Western nations, “accepts” adultery and whoredom. transsexuality and offers state medical procedures. An Iranian transsexual living as a refugee in Turkey, an offi cially secular Islamic state, was recently quoted in an For Iranian and Iraqi gay interview with Arsham Parsi, executive director of the Iranian men to seek asylum the Queer Organization (formerly known as the Persian Gay and situation appears equally Lesbian Organization). The activist, known as Sayeh, stated: Orwellian. If one is unable to leave the shelter, such as it is, “[In Iran] [i]f you are known to be gay, you will be hanged. of a safe house or ones home Therefore, many gays try to plead for societal acceptance for fear of arrest, torture, and by announcing themselves as transgendered [sic]. A lot of execution, how is one to get gays have been brainwashed into believing they are ill. Some to a consulate to apply for believe that if they present themselves as women, they might asylum? fi nd a boyfriend more easily.” The situation facing homo- The actual surgery is complex and most countries perform- sexuals and transsexuals in ing it adhere to ethical standards. This does not appear to these countries – countries be the case in Iran. Setting aside the apparent total lack of benefi ting and even being any sort of screening to ensure those seeking surgery are, in courted by the Bush admin- fact, transsexual, many doctors in Iran reportedly perform the istration – is horrifi c, and is surgeries as if they “are cutting paper, not fl esh.” being carried out with the Sayeh told Parsi doctors routinely “perform sex-change tacit approval of American operations on people without even paying proper attention interests…and the disinter- to each case, just because it’s a highly profi table business. est of the rest of the Western Yet they are so proud that they are in a country that allows nations. people to have sex changes. But they perform all these opera- Stephen Lock is a long time gay tions improperly, and often incompletely.” activist and free lance writer in There have also been several allegations of sexual mis- Alberta. He is the former Secretary conduct – or outright rape – of patients by psychiatrists and and co-director for Egale Canada doctors. in the Prairies/NWT/Nunavut Region, a founding member of the “You can’t complain about these doctor rape cases to Sexuality and Gender Diversity anyone, because the police …commit the same sort of acts,” Advisory Committee (aka Police Sayeh is quoted as saying. Liaison Committee), and was the producer and host of a semi- The situation in both countries is deadly for gay men. Les- monthly GLBTQ radio show, Speak bians are also targeted but, it would seem, less so than gay Sebastian, for 14 years on CJSW men. Part of this no doubt stems from the restrictions im- FM 90.9 (currently on hiatus). He posed on women in both countries. Because so many women lives in Calgary with his partner of are confi ned to the home and/or all-women environments one 26 years and their ‘fur child’, Joey, could assume any sexual activity between women goes largely a Bishon-Cavalier Spaniel cross. unnoticed, especially in a culture that clearly is unable to imagine sexuality that does not involve a penis. The situation faced by transsexuals is hardly less dire. While being transsexual does not necessarily involve the risk of execution, they are not accepted within the culture, are often denied work or access to proper housing, and are ostra- cized by their families. They also face harassment, beatings
gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #44, June 2007 51 52 gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #44, June 2007 Letters to the Editor
By Contributors and Staff Letters Dear GayCalgary, and we cannot fi nd the words to express our gratitude. A On May 12th Twisted Element was the place to be. Art- simple thank you is just not enough. The last year for us ists for Quality of Life (AFQOL) hosted their Gala Celebra- has been a truly wonderful experience and we hope you tion with Awards for 2006 and 2007. Once again, it was enjoyed seeing us hosting functions around the city, and a tremendous success. As we are a totally volunteer based raising money for charities. charity that endeavors to make a difference in the quality of life for those living with HIV/AIDS, it’s no wonder there With the 31st House just starting out, we hope that are so many people to be recognized and rewarded for their you will continue to show your support as you did for us. incredible commitment. We handed out numerous awards In closing, once again thank you from the bottom of our for those that made an unbelievable difference for us in hearts to all who helped make a difference. Even if it helps 2006. just one person, it was worth all the time and effort. This is what our community should be about. Our Gala Sponsors were: Affairs Party Rentals, Visual Concepts, Fiore’s, Money Pennies, Mother Tuckers, 4th We look forward to seeing all of you out and about. Street Liquor, Goliath’s/Texas Lounge, Brass Monocle, Country Furniture, Jami Symon’s Salon, AG Hair Cos- With love and Respect, metics, Affi nity, U-Frame It on 17th Ave, Barbie’s Shop, Emperor Wolfagang Von Bearstein Twisted Element, and Pride Calgary. Empress 30 Mz Dyna Myte Plaques were presented to the following AFQOL Execu- tive Council Members for 2006: Linda Huston, David Patten, Doug Langill, Jami Symons, Gary Sloan, Grant Dear GayCalgary, Lockie, Bernie Matheison, Eric Jackson, Tony MacLean, Kurtis Kronk, Karly Durst, Scott Clark and Susan Cress. The total net sales for the Womomspace Silent auction was $1510.50. It was an excellent turnout for what start- Other awards went to Dyna Myte and Wolfgang, Barb ed out as a simple brainstorming session between Colleen, Stein, Glenn Hurst, Debi Leong, Madding Crowd, Twisted Linda and I on how to raise money for Womonspace. We Element, Money Pennies, Affairs Party Rentals, and of were worried that we would only get about 20 items, but course GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine. we were well over 80 items, and people were still bringing Many thanks to Debi and RJ for hosting; Coco, Trisha donations to the dance. We will defi nitely be doing it again and Fred for back up; Brandy Bishop Towers, Mz Toni, for our May dance next year. Kiwi, Empress 31 Lonnie, RJ and Patrick for performing. Womonspace will be hosting a mixed Unity dance on We look forward to seeing everyone on June 28th for Mz. June 16th at the Hellenic Hall during Edmonton’s Pride Toni’s Tribute to Stonewall: The Ultimate Pride Party, an Week. We will also have a booth at Churchill Square after ISCCA sponsored event hosted by RJ and Anita Lay, with the Pride Parade to kick off our Membership Drive. Also, performances by Entertainers of the Year. on July 21st and 22nd, Womonspace will be hosting our Annual Carol Cattell Classic Golf Tournament at the Once again, thank you Calgary! Country 9 Golf Course located in Bashaw. Camping will Linda Huston Eckess. be available Thursday through Sunday. Artists for Quality of Life (AFQOL.com) Lori Sitar Womonspace Marketing & PR Director Dear GayCalgary, www.gaycanada.com/womonspace/ Now that Coronation is behind us, we would like to extend our personal thank you’s and gratitude to each and every one of you. This year the 30th Imperial House of the ISCCA. raised just over $40,000. We only achieved this success due to the overwhelming support of Twisted Ele- ment, Backlot, Money Pennies, The Calgary Eagle, Texas Lounge, ARGRA, Apollo, and of course YOU. Your friendship and support has made all the difference
gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #44, June 2007 53 Press Releases
By GayCalgary.com Staff Review |Business New Novel Explores Deadly World of Internet Predators on Gay Hook-up Sites instantly when we sent each other an instant message about the death of Falwell: what can we do that would truly offend May 7th, 2007 the memory of Falwell?” said Cruising For Sex owner Keith Rick R. Reed’s new mystery/suspense novel, IM, has just Griffi th. How about offering a membership special to CFS been released this month by Regal Crest Enterprises, LLC Porn for only $6.66? Throw in a DVD sale by offering 3 DVDs under their Quest imprint. IM turns to today’s headlines about for only $66.66! For those not raised in the Christian faith, internet predators to play up the inherent danger in online 666 is the “Mark of the Beast” that Christians believe will connections. Tyler R. Tichelaar, reviewing for readerviews.com mark the last days of mankind. , said, “IM is a fast-paced pager… The title is the abbreviation “Humor and irreverence is what got gay people through so for “Instant Message” but in this case, the instant message much of the hate we endured from the likes of Jerry Falwell. results in instant murder. While it is a mystery concerning a This seems like the perfect way to respond to the death of our series of crimes against gay men, and featuring a gay detec- avowed enemy,” added Griffi th. “Would that all it took was tive and a questionably gay killer, the plot twists, character the death of one hateful man to vanquish all the hate that he development, and suspense make it a story any fan of mystery spewed forth in his life! Those of us who lived through the Fal- or crime fi ction will enjoy.” well nightmare should refuse to be silent and respectful.” In another review, horror author Vince Liaguno, author For many of the words of wisdom doled out by Jerry Falwell of The Literary Six, describes the plot: “When Chicago PD over the years, go here: detective Ed Comparetto is called to the grisly murder scene of a young gay man, his life is plunged into a nightmare as http://www.cruisingforsex.com/falwellquotes.html he is caught up in a cat-and-mouse game with a creepy killer For details of “The Jerry Sale” follow these links: – who may or may not be dead himself – who uses a gay In- ternet hookup site to lure his victims. Told from the multiple http://www.cfsporn.com/666offer.html perspectives of Comparetto, both the killer and his occasional victims, and through the journal entries of the killer’s es- http://www.cfsporn.com/gallery.html tranged aunt, Reed creates a fresh, multi-layered narrative Griffi th added, “I’ve already caught phrases like ‘moral that never tires. While it’s formulaic suspense thriller all the leader’ and ‘dignifi ed and loving’ dropping from the mouths way, Reed wisely pitches just enough curve balls to keep the of the talking heads. I’ll let Jerry speak for himself (see the reader invested right down to the “nick of time” ending. Ripe link, above, to some of his words of wisdom). In the meantime, with genuine suspense and an escalating momentum that Gabe and I decided to celebrate in the way that would most doesn’t let up until the very end, IM is the kind of deliciously offend Jerry Falwell and his followers: to put porn on sale in nasty psychological thriller that’s guaranteed to raise goose- his honor.” fl esh even under a hot summer sun.” Rick says, “I’m excited about the release of IM and hope that it will deliver on its promise of being a scary, fast-paced Egale Canada Calls for Zero Tolerance of Homophobic ride for readers.” Bullying in our Schools Reed has published three novels so far, Obsessed, Pen- May 17th, 2007 ance , and A Face Without a Heart and, in addition to IM, has The Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms recognizes a vampire novel coming out this fall called In the Blood (also the rights of all Canadians to be free from discrimination from Regal Crest). In 2006, his short story collection, Twisted: based on sexual orientation. Yet homophobic acts, jokes and Tales of Obsession and Terror, was published. His short fi c- insults happen every day while people stand by and do noth- tion has appeared in numerous anthologies. He lives in Miami, ing to stop it. FL where he is at work on another novel. Teens are among those most vulnerable to homophobic bul- IM is available from Amazon and other online booksellers, lying. As May 17, marks the fi fth annual National Day Against as well as by order at all bookstores. Homophobia, Egale Canada is calling for zero tolerance of homophobic bullying in our schools.
How Should Gay Pornographers React to the Falwell “Students from same-sex families as well as lesbian, gay, Death? bisexual and transgender students are being harassed in school with homophobic behaviour and bullying,” said Egale May 16th, 2007 Canada’s Executive Director, Helen Kennedy. “Students who How should a gay porn site react to the death of bigot Jerry do not feel safe cannot learn,” continued Kennedy. “These Falwell? “My editor, Gabe, and I said the same thing almost students need to see their lives refl ected accurately and posi- tively back to them within the curriculum.”
54 gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #44, June 2007 Kennedy added that schools must work harder to eliminate exchange ideas and inspiration, helping to nurture the next negative stereotypes and attitudes towards lesbian, gay, bi- generation of theatre artists in Calgary. Within the uninhibited sexual and trans-identifi ed people. “School boards must take and progressive environment of a summer theatre festival, a zero tolerance approach to homophobia, and transphobia,” IGNITE! artists can share ideas, explore their talents and build said Kennedy. “They have a responsibility to be proactive in relationships in Calgary’s arts community, while showcasing preventing homophobic bullying and behaviour.” their talents to Calgary audiences.” Sage Theatre’s Artistic Director, Kelly Reay explains, “This year’s festival, our third “Today we need to send a strong message that the lesbian, annual, and will feature theatre, music, dance and visual art. gay, bisexual, transgender, two spirited and transsexual com- Throughout our nine year history, Sage Theatre has played an munity like all communities are safe and valued in every city important role in mentoring and nurturing young theatre art- and town across this country,” said Nigel Flear, President of ists. The IGNITE! festival helps build our presence as a leader Egale Canada. “Everyone has a role to play in the fi ght for the in the development of the future of our community.” elimination of all forms of discrimination.” Performances are 7:30 p.m. at the Pumphouse Theatre from Thursday June 14, Friday June 15 and Saturday June Lt. Governor Awards Medals an 18-Karat Rabbit Treats 16. Ticket prices are $10 per show or $25 for a Festival Pass and are available by calling 263-0079 or at pumphousethe- May 28th, 2007 atre.ca. For more info about Sage Theatre visit www.sageth- One Yellow Rabbit is delighted to report that its resident En- eatre.com semble was one of three award recipients out of six shortlisted nominees at the 2007 Lieutenant Governor of Alberta Arts Awards on May 26. Queen Street Desperados - New Works by Andy Fabo Ensemble members Blake Brooker, Michael Green, Denise June 28th - August 4th Clarke, Andy Curtis, Richard McDowell, Onalea Gilbertson Skew Gallery is pleased to present Queen Street Despera- and David van Belle were presented with individual gold dos, a series of new works by Andy Fabo, an internationally medals, commemorative lapel pins and a group cheque for recognized (Calgary-born) artist, activist, critic, and curator. $30,000 by Alberta’s Lieutenant Governor Norman Kwong. This exhibition will mark the fi rst solo showing of Andy Fabo’s An offer of a seven-day residency at the Banff Centre was also work in Calgary in over fi fteen years. made to the group, who will likely use the opportunity to focus on several new original projects. The awards ceremony, em- Queen Street Desperados is a series of silkscreen paintings ceed by Fil Fraser and Senator Tommy Banks, wrapped up the depicting various infamous personalities from Toronto’s Queen inaugural Arts Without Borders festival, a week-long multidis- Street Art scene. Simultaneously satirical and serious, these ciplinary celebration of the arts in Lloydminster, a city which portraits ponder our compulsion for masquerade - an impulse spans the Alberta- Saskatchewan border. often sanctioned by annual rituals such as Halloween, Mardi Gras, or Stampede Week. The Rabbits were on a shortlist of nominees that included: director Bob Baker; writer Greg Hollingshead; playwright The Western attire of the players in the paintings will also Sharon Pollock; musicians Tom and Isobel Rolston; and writer refl ect the pioneering spirit of each generation of artists. While Rudy Wiebe. Like the Ensemble, Greg Hollingshead and the cross-dressing only appears in a few of the portraits, the Rolstons were also honoured with medals, pins and cheques, portraits refl ect the preoccupation with drag as a metaphor for while Rudy Wiebe, Sharon Pollock and Bob Baker were aesthetic artifi ce that occurs in the work of Marcel Duchamp awarded lapel pins and cash prizes of $5,000 each. and Andy Warhol. With One Yellow Rabbit about to celebrate its 25th anniver- Andy Fabo was born and educated in Calgary. He currently sary, the Ensemble was especially thrilled to be selected for lives and works in Toronto, where he fi rst became recognized this prestigious award, started by Alberta’s previous Lieuten- as a painter associated with ChromaZone, a highly infl uential ant Governor, the late Lois Hole. This most recent honour is collective that spearheaded Toronto’s fi gurative painting move- the third major award for the company in what has been a ment in the early eighties. Since this time, Andy Fabo’s work stellar year. In September 2006, Managing Producer Stephen has explored issues of personal identity, focusing on his own Schroeder received the Rosza Award for Excellence in Arts gay identity, and how this relates to a broader social context. Management, a prize valued at $50,000. More recently, One Yellow Rabbit Co-artistic Director Michael Green won in the Throughout a career spanning nearly three decades, Andy Established Arts category at Calgary’s annual Mayor’s Lun- Fabo’s work has been exhibited extensively in Canada and cheon for Business and the Arts. abroad. In the mid-eighties he lived in New York where he was awarded the Canada Council residency at P.S.1. In 2005 Fabo’s work was surveyed in a solo exhibition at the Canadian Museum of Contemporary Art. Additionally, Fabo has curated IGNITE! Calgary’s Next Generation Arts Festival numerous exhibitions and as an art writer, he has published Sage Theatre, in co-production with the Pumphouse The- in a range of journals including in Parachute, Mix, Fuse, and atres, proudly presents their third annual Next Generation C magazine. Arts Festival, IGNITE! for three days on June 14, 15 and 16th. Andy Fabo currently lives and works in Toronto, Ontario. IGNITE! is a festival for emerging professional theatre art- ists, providing a venue for experience and exposure. IGNITE! Skew Gallery will offer emerging artists a rare opportunity to produce one of 1615 10th Ave SW, Calgary six independent shows. Every show in the festival will be act- (403) 244-4445 ed, directed, designed, stage managed and written by emerg- [email protected] ing artists, under the mentorship of established professionals. www.skewgallery.com “IGNITE! is the place where young artists can meet and
gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #44, June 2007 55 56 gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #44, June 2007 gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #44, June 2007 57 Pride Exhibit
By Rob Diaz-Marino Review | Art QUAB Gallery is hosting a special Gay Pride exhibit from June 7th to June 30th, once again featuring a multitude of works from Montreal artist Yvon Goulet. If you have visited the Calgary Eagle lately, you will see a number of Goulet’s works on their walls. Goulet’s artwork features particularly provocative imagery reserved for a par- ticular gay male subculture accessible to all. His works explore the hidden mean- ings of uniforms, fetishes, stereotypes, fantasies, and male archetypes. Many paintings are done on the unique media of abandoned election placards, while others are done on conven-
tional canvas. The gazes of his subjects are particularly expressive, and the cover of our June 2006 edition fea- tured such a painting. His latest works continue to feature masculine men in uniforms and business suits (or no clothing at all). He has also delved into some pure scenery paintings de- picting urban settings in his own distinctive style.
Other artists being fea- tured this year are QUAB regulars Derek Stefanuk and Simone Bournival. QUAB Gallery Pride Exhibit running June 7th - 30th 212, 100 - 7 Avenue SW, Calgary (403) 261-2855 [email protected] www.quab.ca
58 gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #44, June 2007 gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #44, June 2007 59 Queer Eye - Calgary & Edmonton Community Events this Month
Photos by Steve Polyak and Rob Diaz-Marino of GayCalgary.com Magazine Drag Show at Boots - Edmonton
Book Signing - Darren Hagen, Tornado Magnet A Salute to Trailer Court at Audrey’s Books Edmonton
60 gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #44, June 2007 Drag Shows at Buddys - Edmonton Drag Shows at the Roost - Edmonton
gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #44, June 2007 61 Drag Shows at the Twisted Element - Calgary White Party at Twisted - Calgary
62 gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #44, June 2007 Herland Film Festival - Calgary Fairytales Film Festival - Calgary
gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #44, June 2007 63 64 gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #44, June 2007 gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #44, June 2007 65 The Drag King Project and Little Men Harcourt House Presents Pride Exhibitions
By Rob Diaz-Marino Review | Art This month in Edmonton, Harcourt House Arts Centre is presenting two unique exhibitions hon- ouring Gay Pride. “The Drag King Project” – Toni Latour Burnaby B.C. artist Toni Latour explores the fl uidity of gender and sexual identi- ties as the result of her work with two Vancouver drag king groups. The exhibit is comprised of individual photographs, video of drag performances and audio interviews. “My motivation in conceiv- ing The Drag King Project comes from a desire for continued queer represen- tations from within queer communities,” says Toni. “Giving voice to one’s world can be both a declaration and process of creation, they have moved beyond anger and a celebration. When speaking about this project outside reaction to focus on censorship, freedom of expression, of queer scenes, the majority of people I encounter ask contemporary social values, gay identity and the interface ‘what is a drag king?’ I often reply very casually by saying: of art and pornography. ‘Well, you know what a drag queen is, so just think of it in reverse.’ This seems to bring about a mental picture to get “The works in the series Little Men were conceived in things started.” anger,” says Golby. “…During Alberta’s Centennial Year, the same-sex marriage issue Within the past few years, came to the fore and, much despite minimal exposure to my dismay and frustra- and awareness from popu- tion, I found my ‘bedroom’ lar culture, drag kings have and my very existence as a exploded on queer scenes. Toni actively explores the possibilities within the diverse and integrated queer communities of Vancouver.
“Little Men” – Shane Golby Edmonton artist Shane Golby presents a series of mixed media art works created with gel transfer, acrylic paint, and cement. The works were inspired by, and often make specifi c ref- erence to, the Gay Marriage debate. Although in the
66 gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #44, June 2007 human being scrutinized and questioned by various levels of Government, Church groups, and the population at large. This issue has profoundly impacted me on both per- sonal and artistic levels; challenging me to confront how I wish to be perceived as both a man and as a member of the community at large, and how I wish that perception to be portrayed.” The works that form Little Men are records both of a historical moment in Canadian Society and fragments of Golby’s personal life experiences. They are refl ections on fear and celebrations of beauty in all its forms. Harcourt House presents The Drag King Project and Little Men June 15th , 10-5pm, June 16th, 12-4pm 3rd Floor, 10215 – 112 St. Edmonton (780) 426-4180 [email protected]
gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #44, June 2007 67 Classified Ads
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