TORONTO’S GAY & LESBIAN NEWS MAY 1–14, 2014 1–14, MAY #770 Hail MARY Photographer Devon Poole reimagines the seven deadly sins E18 @dailyxtra

PLUS! TEENS ON STEROIDS facebook.com/dailyxtra facebook.com/dailyxtra E10 GREAT GAY

dailyxtra.com dailyxtra.com CAMPING FREE 36,000 AUDITED E28 CIRCULATION More at More 2 MAY 1–14, 2014 XTRA! TORONTO’S GAY & LESBIAN NEWS MORE AT DAILYXTRA.COM XTRA! MAY 1–14, 2014 3 4 MAY 1–14, 2014 XTRA! TORONTO’S GAY & LESBIAN NEWS XTRA Published by Pink Triangle Press TORONTO’S PUBLISHER & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF GAY & LESBIAN Brandon Matheson SAME-SEX LEGAL ISSUES NEWS EDITORIAL #770 MAY 1–14, 2014 CYNTHIA BOROVOY WARREN Roundup MANAGING EDITOR Danny Glenwright ARTS EDITOR Phil Villeneuve BARRISTER & SOLICITOR COPY EDITOR Lesley Fraser 416-964-0900 HEALTH EVENT LISTINGS: [email protected] [email protected] CONTRIBUTE OR INQUIRE about Xtra’s editorial content: [email protected], Domestic Matters: Domestic Agreements THINKSTOCK [email protected] Real Estate: Purchase, Sale & Mortgages: EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS TO THIS ISSUE Niko Bell, Bruce Bishop, Drasko Bogdanovic, Estate Planning: Wills and Powers of Attorney Jori Bolton, Kyle Burton, Rolyn Chambers, Chris Dupuis, Elah Feder, JP Larocque, 30 St Clair Ave W Suite 400, Toronto ON M4V 3A1 Michael Lyons, Aefa Mulholland, Robin Perelle, Kevin Ritchie, Dylan C Robertson, Keph Senett, Johnnie Walker, Jeremy Willard Ŕ
ART & PRODUCTION CREATIVE DIRECTOR Lucinda Wallace GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Darryl Mabey, Bryce Stuart, Landon Whittaker ADVERTISING ADVERTISING & SALES DIRECTOR Ken Hickling NATIONAL SALES MANAGER Jeff rey Hoff man SALES ADMINISTRATION MANAGER Lexi Chuba SALES TEAM LEAD Lorilynn Barker RETAIL ACCOUNTS MANAGERS Brian Garrison, Phil Clowater CLIENT SERVICES & ADVERTISING ADMINISTRATOR Eugene Coon ADVERTISING & DISTRIBUTION COORDINATOR Gary Major DISPLAY ADVERTISING: [email protected] 416-925-6665 or 800-268-XTRA LINE CLASSIFIEDS: classifi [email protected] SPONSORSHIP AND BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Erica Bestwick, [email protected] The publication of an ad in Xtra does not mean that Xtra endorses the advertiser. Storefront features are paid advertising content. Printed and published in Canada. ©2014 Pink Triangle Press. Xtra is published every two ’ROID RAGE weeks by Pink Triangle Press. ISSN 0829-3384 Why are gay teens nearly six times Address: 2 Carlton St, Ste 1600, Toronto, ON, M5B 1J3 more likely to use steroids? E10 Offi ce hours: 9am–5pm, Monday–Friday Phone: 416-925-6665 Fax: 416-925-6674 Website: dailyxtra.comEmail: [email protected] Subscriptions: $77.81 for one year (26 issues); $69 (US) in the United States; $125 (US) overseas. Editorial Club Scene E24 [email protected] Lessons from the Parti Deep Dish 800-268-XTRA Québécois By Robin Perelle E6 By Rolyn Chambers E26 PINK TRIANGLE PRESS Founded 1971 DIRECTORS Jim Bartley, Gerald Hannon, Feedback E6 Xtra Living E27 Glenn Kauth, Didier Pomerleau, Ken Popert, Gillian Rodgerson Xcetera E7 HONORARY DIRECTOR Colin Brownlee PRESIDENT & EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Ken Popert Daily Xtra Travel CEO, DIGITAL MEDIA David Walberg CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Andrew Chang Upfront Happy campers School board rejects Queer-friendly places to pitch student’s homophobia a tent or park an RV within allegations at tribunal E9 driving distance of Toronto E28 History Boys Pride in Mexico City 2 MINUTES TO CHURCH ST Wilde in the north A non-corporate mix of By Jeremy Willard E12 politics, partying and anarchic OR THE SUBWAY celebration E30 Out in the City 10 great nude beaches ALL OF TORONTO in Canada E31 IS AT YOUR DOORSTEP Arts roundup Classifi eds E32 Why women are funny E14 Xtra Hot Cover story By Drasko Bogdanovic E33 Seven deadly Marys Toronto photographer Devon Poole gives Mother of God a makeover E18 ondailyxtra.com Playlisp E Fly Nightclub to It doesn’t get close after WorldPride better for Owen Pallett E Oldest LGBT bookstore TORONTO DOWNTOWN CENTRE By Kevin Ritchie E21 in US to close May 17 What’s On E23 30 CARLTON STREET E 2014, the year of the TORONTO, ONTARIO M5B 2E9 CANADA Hotel Front Desk: 1-416-977-6655 bare ass www.holidayinn.com/TorontoCentre COVER PHOTO BY DEVON POOLE

MORE AT DAILYXTRA.COM XTRA! MAY 1–14, 2014 5 email [email protected] comment dailyxtra.com & facebook/dailyxtra.com Comment tweet @dailyxtra

FEEDBACK Like the rest of the country and Lessons from the ACT cuts economy, people are polarized Ellen’s letter severely criticizing Ha- between rich and poor, and the zelle Palmer’s direction of ACT from 2009 to 2013 is very unfair and cannot poor are losing. Parti Québécois go unchallenged [Re: “AIDS Commit- tee of Toronto Cuts Staff to Control [RE: TORONTO LGBT PHILANTHROPY CONFERENCE] Deficits,” dailyxtra.com, March 19]. enormous gains within the province: EDITORIAL Everything ACT does is essential and ROBIN PERELLE Québécois culture is strong and per- #769 APRIL 17–30, 2014 love, compassion and any teachings in there is nothing there that’s a luxury FREE INSIDE! 36,000 AUDITED vasive; francophones are now better CIRCULATION Xtra Living the book they clutch to so dearly. This activity. ACT regularly reviews its pro- THE BEST OF TORONTO’S GAY & LESBIAN NEWS GAY & LESBIAN When Pierre Karl Pé- educated and have access to the highest- TORONTO grams for efficacy and winds down is cruel and against the new laws they ladeau pumped his newly paying jobs; music, fi lms and even the More at must adhere to but not surprising. old programs that no longer serve a dailyxtra.com anointed Parti Québécois fi st for sover- most vacuous homegrown TV shows MARY MILKETTE (FACEBOOK) useful purpose while starting new facebook.com/dailyxtra eignty in March, he might as well have celebrate and refl ect Québécois realities. TORONTO, ON ones to address new areas of need. been talking about sexual liberation. Yet as a direct result of these signifi cant Hazelle Palmer became the executive @dailyxtra Not that Péladeau has given any indica- gains, the separate state now seems un- I agree with everything Christopher director of ACT at a point when ACT tion that he supports sexual liberation. necessary and nearly impossible. To even is doing, except removing the book began to suffer severe unexpected But like sexual liberation, sovereignty suggest it during an election campaign is Poison from the curriculum. If you funding cutbacks from various levels of is both the end game and potentially the political suicide. don’t want to be censored, don’t be government, and she and ACT senior greatest liability of a cultural movement Not unlike sexual liberation. Once a banning books. It’s a slippery slope! staff and its board struggled to cope Raging homosHas the gay lobby E8 that has earned enormous gains without goal of the gay liberation movement — to become the bully? with the resulting unexpected defi cits JACQUES LAPLANTE (FACEBOOK) managing to ultimately dislodge the transform society as a whole to embrace all OTTAWA, ON without severely cutting back essential governing social system. forms of sexual pleasure and relinquish its services to the gay community and When the Parti Québécois stepped onto uptight fi xation on sin — we have settled new manager of the Church-Wellesley Toronto LGBT without butchering its cadre of profes- the political scene in 1968, it was the prod- largely for carving spots for ourselves, and Business Improvement Area (BIA), as Philanthropy Conference sional staff , and this was not easy. ACT uct of profound social upheaval. The Quiet to some extent our culture, within existing saying, “I don’t read Xtra or any of the has been very much in survival mode Canada’s middle and working class is Revolution was barely eight years old but institutions. Rather than challenging mar- major papers,” [“New Blood at the during the last few years, and Hazelle BIA,” Xtra #769, April 17]. That’s a economically tapped out [“When the had already transformed a conservative, riage, for example, we demanded our share Money Dries Up,” dailyxtra.com, April Catholic Church–driven, anglophone- of its sanctioned rights and responsibilities. coped very well with this ongoing crisis warning sign. If you have a leadership in funding for ACT, which is why SHC position in the Toronto gay village, 25]. In Toronto, service industry jobs, dominated province into a more modern, Nothing wrong with demanding our due, which traditionally cover a big chunk was so happy to hire her. you need to read Xtra. It’s the only gay more egalitarian state with access to edu- whether it’s equal access to education, jobs of the gay working class, pay shit, and EVE MARIE publication in Toronto that attempts cation and healthcare and a reemerging and decision making in Quebec or equal ac- it’s not enough to keep up with ris- TORONTO, ON to regularly monitor issues in the gay sense of pride in being French Canadian. cess to job protection and spousal benefi ts ing rents. Look at the Village: all the village and the broader Toronto LGBT The revolution’s lead architect, Liberal in straight society. But is it enough? What mom-and-pop shops are closing and WorldPride community. Even the gay opponents premier Jean Lesage, had, with his natu- happens when a cultural movement wins more corporate-owned franchises are Two months before WorldPride 2014 of Xtra still read the publication. ral resources minister, René Lévesque, signifi cant gains without transforming the moving in. Like the rest of the country and you wouldn’t know it [“When Furthermore, if you have a leadership nationalized foreign-owned hydroelec- overall structure that surrounds it? and economy, people are polarized Toronto Hosts WorldPride, Will Any- position with a BIA in Toronto, you tric plants throughout the province and The latest incarnation of the Parti between rich and poor, and the poor one Show Up?” dailyxtra.com, March need to be aware of municipal issues begun training francophones to take over Québécois shows what can happen are losing. 24]. There is no large banner, sign or by reading at least one major paper, engineering and other positions previ- when a movement that has made huge RYAN ously held by anglophones. Wealth and gains loses direction. How do you keep advertising highlighting this event on especially when a BIA is dependent TORONTO, ON decision-making power fi nally began to nurturing the culture you were created Church Street. There are thousands on the City of Toronto for its very shift, though a royal commission inquiry to protect once you’ve strengthened it of cars going by each day — an adver- existence and its funding. Catholic parents at Pride in 1963 would find that francophones, enough to survive in a world where it’s tising opportunity — but you would ELLEN Teachers in OECTA need to stick to representing 80 percent of Quebec’s popu- still, nonetheless, a minority? never know there will be a WorldPride TORONTO, ON their position and join in the Pride lation, still earned only 64 percent of their Do you try to squash others to further in June. Anyone with common sense celebrations as planned [“Catholic anglophone counterparts’ salaries. strengthen your own position? would know large banners, signs or Christopher Karas Parents’ Group Demands Union Pull Carving spots in places of power was Do you keep pushing for transforma- posters to advertise this to the pass- Let’s do an experiment: bring into the Out of Toronto Pride,” dailyxtra.com, essential but not enough. Nurturing tional change in a world now prepared ing traffi c or the general public by this schools books that put down blacks, April 22]. It is time for this group French Canadian culture and breath- to recognize your existence and even, point of time would work. Or are we immigrants, disabilities of any kind of parents to consider the damage ing new life into its language became occasionally, to shift some of its norms waiting for a politically opportune and, of course, diff erent religions — homophobia and refusal to serve paramount, especially as it became clear to acknowledge your own? time for a certain politician to grab then see who wants them removed and affi rm LGBT school community that francophones submerged in English- Or do you keep carving and nurturing the spotlight on this? [“School Board Rejects Student’s Ho- members have caused many LGBT speaking Canada outside Quebec were the spots within, content to contribute, JAN GRYGIER mophobia Allegations at Tribunal,” students who need support and af- rapidly losing their language. slowly, maybe, to reshaping the bigger TORONTO, ON dailyxtra.com, April 23]. The poor firmation. By joining in the Pride Lévesque soon parted with the Liberals picture over time? Catholic school board (and church) is celebrations, teachers will also give and launched the Parti Québécois, com- As the cultural revolutions born in the BIA editorial fl ailing like a fi sh out of water, as they a clear message of support to those mitted both to strengthening Québécois 1960s win impressive gains within poten- The article quotes Mychol Scully, the know they are on the wrong side of who are victims of homophobic bully- language, culture and independence within tially greater losses, it’s no wonder many ing — often inspired by ill-considered the province and, ultimately, to creating a of us fi nd ourselves at a crossroads. The outcome that we seek is this — gay and lesbian statements from religious leaders. separate state no longer outnumbered by people daring together to set love free. anglophones in the rest of Canada. Robin Perelle is the managing editor of WAYNE M Xtra is published by Pink Triangle Press, at 2 Carlton St, Ste 1600, Toronto, M5B 1J3. TORONTO, ON In the years since, the party has made Xtra Vancouver.

6 MAY 1–14, 2014 XTRA! TORONTO’S GAY & LESBIAN NEWS Sushi A BIWEEKLY HELPING .com OF POP CULTURE, SERVED À LA CARTE Psychotherapy • Counselling • Depression • Anxiety XCETERA Gender • Sexuality • Life & Executive Coaching Akie Abe FROM THE PTP ARCHIVES 15 YEARS AGO The wife of Clinical Member, Ontario conservative Todd Kaufman Society of Psychotherapists Japanese PM Shinzo XTRA #379, MAY 6, 1999 Abe rode on a fl oat at 1.800.699.3396 • [email protected] the 2014 Tokyo Pride Rex Harrington and Aleksandar Antonijevic take the parade. roles of von Rothbart and Siegfried, respectively, in James Kudelka’s National Ballet of Canada production of Swan Lake. “I believe in romantic love,” Antonijevic says of his role. “It gives you so much, whether it hurts you or not.” After a career of 3,000 Gaelen Patrick more than 20 years with the company, Antonijevic Number of attendees Real Estate Sales Representative is retiring from the National Ballet in 2014. at Tokyo Pride. Rarely Offered Kanamara Matsuri Steam Plant Lofts! OUT ON THE STREET BY KYLE BURTON Otherwise known as the penis festival, 10 Wellesley Place an annual Japanese event. Offered at $399,900 What role did the Virgin Mary 1 Bed + Den / 1 Bath New Listing 716 sq. ft. Corner suite with exposed brick, high ceilings and loft windows! Scan to view the full details of this play in your childhood? mobile-ready listing. Buying? Selling? Penis lollies Thinking Pre-construction? A bestselling item at Proudly Serving Our Community! Kanamara Matsuri. Contact me 416.801.9265 [email protected] 6 lbs www.gaelenpatrick.com Photos | Floor Plan | Map Weight of the Sutton Group Realty Systems Inc. Brokerage “world’s largest Independently Owned and Operated | 416.762.4200 Toronto Not intended to solicit those already under contract with another Realtor. gummy penis.”

Kelvin Aliya Patrick Sharlene Anna Swan STUDENT COMMUNICATIONS STUDENT ARTIST Born in 1846, the DIRECTOR Um . . . I used to pray When I was younger, None “world’s tallest when I was a child. Well, I grew up I saw her as a at all. woman” grew to Muslim. I wanted to seven feet, eight I’m Christian. feminine mother inches. be a prophet. fi gure.

QUOTABLE 26 lbs The birth weight of Swan’s son; the I don’t care whom circumference of his head was 19 inches.

you sleep with. Tom Thumb Nickname of the It’s ‘What kind of a world’s smallest baby boy, who weighed 10 ounces human being are you?’ at birth. I don’t understand Baby gorilla Born by a rare animal C-section operation [why people are anti-gay]. at the San Diego Zoo It’s such a personal, in March. Adam Lambert private business, Raised in San Diego. The Very Best and it’s none Lambert’s greatest- hits compilation will of mine. be released in May. May 17 — Betty White, The International Day in a recent Against Homophobia interview with and Transphobia. Larry King

MORE AT DAILYXTRA.COM XTRA! MAY 1–14, 2014 7 MICHEAL LARGE MAY 4, 1967–MARCH 29, 2014

Micheal Large was the first volunteer something unique as a person living with HIV. It’s not that coordinator at Fife House — a position he someone who is HIV-negative isn’t able to work in this field, held from 1993 until 2008. but I think that sharing my perspective on this disease, which Micheal’s enthusiasm fuelled the soul also impacts me directly, is helpful to volunteers.” of Fife House, and his genuine caring Micheal chaired one of our original fundraising campaigns for people strengthened the heart of — the Red Ribbon Campaign. His impassioned personality the volunteer program. He started the made volunteer recruitment a natural — many of our longest- program, built and nurtured it and made serving volunteers started with Micheal and remain today at it one the best managed and largest in reception, community programs, bingo and our Jarvis meal Ontario. His legacy has continued with a vibrant and pas- programs. Micheal was sought after, often giving workshops sionate volunteer workforce that is a core part of Fife House. on volunteer management and recruitment and the often- ROBERT G.COATES, VALERIE A. CHANG, Volunteer contributions are equivalent to seven full-time challenging role of being a person living with HIV/AIDS work- B.SC, LL.B, TEP B.A., J.D. staff every year. ing within an AIDS organization. BARRISTER, SOLICITOR & NOTARY BARRISTER & SOLICITOR Micheal’s time with us mirrored the history and story of Fife. Micheal attended our 25th anniversary celebration this CERTIFIED SPECIALIST He started as a volunteer at Fife in 1991. He then became the past February, where he had a chance to reconnect with (ESTATES & TRUST LAW) unpaid volunteer coordinator before being hired in January of many Fife House volunteers, friends and staff members and 1994 as staff. In his own words: “I started volunteering in March to see how much he contributed. of 1991 at the Yuk Yuk’s club fundraiser for Fife House. I started Micheal cherished Fife House and the work everyone does. R.G. COATES ESTATE LAW P.C. volunteering as a way to cope with being diagnosed with an He felt Fife was not just a place to work, but a place he called 9 8 1 AIDS-related infection. I am so in awe of people when they vol- his family. 120 Carlton Street, Suite 307 Toronto, Ontario M5A 4K2 1 unteer their time. I respect the world of volunteers everywhere. Fife House will be hosting a time of reflection and closure Tel. (416) 925-6490 Fax (416) 925-4492 E I’m a little anal-retentive when it comes to organizing, which is on Tuesday, May 6 from 5 to 7pm at 490 Sherbourne St. web: www.rgcoates.com C a good skill to have for someone who has to support, manage, Feel free to join us to celebrate the life and legacy of Micheal email: [email protected] N motivate and guide hundreds of volunteers. I do think I bring Large. I email: [email protected] S

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8 MAY 1–14, 2014 XTRA! TORONTO’S GAY & LESBIAN NEWS I just wanted to get back to normal. Upfront Steroid user Cameron E 10 When the money dries up

Toronto LGBT Philanthropy Conference brings together donors, organizations and fundraising pros

COMMUNITY the donors and funding bodies that ORGANIZATIONS support LGBT causes to those who ELAH FEDER need it. Kennedy said Egale has found it especially difficult to galvanize donors The funding tap for LGBT causes has around trans issues. It is currently run dry since gay Canadians won the working to build support for Bill C-279, right to get married, according to the which would include protection based director of one of the country’s largest on gender identity in Canada’s Hu- LGBT advocacy organizations. man Rights Act. There are no protec- In the opening panel at the fourth tions for trans people in the Criminal annual LGBT Philanthropy Conference Code or the Human Rights Act, and yet in Toronto, on April 24, Egale Canada trans people remain among the most executive director Helen Kennedy of- vulnerable. fered a frank assessment of the chal- “But when we mention that and pitch gues is the key to overall societal change. commit those $20,000 to a fundraising From left: Patricia Jean, Arc-en- lenges her organization faces in the it to get the resources that we need in ciel d’Afrique; Vijaya Chickermane, Speakers on the diversity panel de- program or we commit our $20,000 to fundraising arena, particularly since order to mount the kind of advocacy executive director of the Alliance scribed the catch-22 situations smaller the needs of our clients who walk in the marriage equality was achieved. that we did for marriage, it’s night and for South Asian AIDS Prevention organizations can find themselves in: door every day and need maybe $100 for “After marriage, there was this sense day,” Kennedy said. As a result, Egale (ASAAP); Andre Lucas, TD Bank lacking funds, in part, because they a winter jacket,” said Shannon Ryan, of that we have everything,” Kennedy said, has turned to allied funders outside the Financial Group; and Parul Pandya, don’t have the resources to establish BlackCAP. Ontario Trillium Foundation, take part condemning the ensuing complacency. community for support on these issues in the LGBT Philanthropy Conference effective development programs. The two-day conference included and has focused much of its effort on “As an organization, we make maybe diversity panel. ELAH FEDER For more on these stories, panel discussions that asked how the education and promoting LGBT accep- $20,000 a year in fundraising, maxi- go to dailyxtra.com. community can channel money from tance among youth, which Kennedy ar- mum, and we have a choice: we maybe

NEWS BRIEFS June’s WorldPride event “is incon- inclusion and recognition of the rights the francophone school board Conseil in all schools and removal of the book sistent with what the Church teaches of LGBTTQ people.” Scolaire de District Catholique Centre- Poison from the curriculum. Karas says about homosexuality.” The petition, PAFE takes a different view, saying Sud (CSDCCS). As a Grade 12 student that he’s disappointed the board’s first Catholic parents’ which now includes slightly fewer than the motion threatens “the teaching au- at École Secondaire Catholique Sainte- response is to deny. 1,500 signatures, asks that Catholic thority of parents.” —Dylan C Robertson Famille, he claims he encountered re- “I would’ve wanted them to listen group demands union trustees “demand an end to union in- sistance to starting a GSA, as well as and understand what I was feeling,” volvement in the Pride parade event.” negligence in addressing homophobic Karas tells Xtra. “They’re not address- pull out of Pride While the motion immediately School board attitudes among students and within ing the issue, which is building safe prompted some conservative Catho- the school’s curriculum. spaces.” A month after an Ontario Catholic lic groups to start letter-writing cam- rejects homophobia “The complaint is unfounded and Karas is now deciding whether to teachers’ union voted to march in To- paigns, this appears to be the first appeal must be rejected by the tribunal,” reads submit a response to the tribunal, which ronto’s Pride parade for the first time, from Catholic school stakeholders. The allegations at tribunal an April 16 statement from the board will then move to mediation. If no solu- a Catholic parents’ group is calling for head of OECTA has clarified to Catholic that summarizes its response. “There tion is found, the issue proceeds to a the union to change its decision. media that the decision does not mean After being faced with a $25,000 dis- was no discrimination based on sexual court-style hearing at which an adju- At its annual conference on March 10, the union would enter a float and that crimination complaint through the orientation, nor were there discrimina- dicator will issue a ruling within a year the Ontario English Catholic Teachers participating remains an individual Ontario Human Rights Tribunal, a tory practices.” of the February complaint. Association (OECTA) voted to march choice. Catholic school board has responded by In addition to the monetary dam- Since going public with his GSA battle in the parade as a show of support for The OECTA motion was proposed by dismissing allegations of homophobia ages, Karas’s complaint seeks a letter in December, Karas has been nominated LGBT Catholics. the union’s branch for Toronto second- as “groundless.” of apology, a policy on harassment and for a WorldPride-associated Inspire Parents as First Educators (PAFE) ary teachers. It noted that the union Christopher Karas filed a complaint discrimination, mandatory sensitivity award for LGBTQ Youth of the Year. released a petition April 18 saying that has “been a leader in promoting the with the tribunal in February against training, gender-neutral washrooms —Dylan C Robertson

MORE AT DAILYXTRA.COM XTRA! MAY 1–14, 2014 9 Why are so many gay and bisexual teenagers taking steroids? Mass appeal BY NIKO BELL

hen Dr Aaron Blashill, a to use steroids heavily: four percent said they STEROID USE BY ticles to shrink. At the same time, the rush “I just wanted to get back to normal,” researcher and clinician had used more than 40 times, compared to of testosterone signals muscles to increase he says. at Massachusetts General only 0.7 percent among their straight peers. ADOLESCENT MALES in size, and almost any intense exercise Cameron started on pills, 12 to 14 a day Hospital, first saw how The conclusion was clear. Gay teens are Any produces dramatic growth. of the common synthetic steroid methan- many American gay teen- injecting themselves with anabolic steroids steroid use Steroids act just like testosterone but drostenolone, the street name for which is Moderate use aged boys were using ste- much more than any others, and that likely (>10 times) the effects are vastly multiplied: they quite “d-bol.” He was afraid of needles, he says. roids, he assumed he had means that gay men are as well. Although we Severe use literally make you more of a man. Oral d-bol was hell on his liver, though, made an error. still don’t know how many adult gay men use (>40 times) and after too many rough hangovers, he He guessed the number steroids, most lifelong steroid use begins switched to a cocktail of injectable tes- would be high, maybe as much as two or among young men in late adolescence and Heterosexual tosterone, a few d-bol pills and another three times normal, but this, he thought, the early 20s. injectable called Nolvadex that prevents could not be correct. Somewhere in the numbers lay the reason. For Cameron, a 20-year-old artisan from the growth of breast tissue associated with He went back and rechecked his analysis, 0.7% Ottawa, it all started when he got sick. steroid use. then rechecked it again, and again. The (Xtra agreed not to use his last name for Cameron doesn’t know much about what 4% 1.5% numbers told him the same thing: out of a this story.) all the drugs do or how they work. He trusts sample of 17,000 American teenagers, nearly Sexual minority Cameron was fit and healthy until a year his dealer for that. His drugs came in pill six times as many gay and bisexual boys had Anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS) are a of illness and school stress tore 40 pounds bottles and 10 millilitre vials, and he took used steroids as their straight counterparts. family of hormones that include the natural off his body. Standing five foot 10, at 118 them as directed. When Blashill and a team of researchers male hormone testosterone and a broad pounds, he struggled to buy clothes, and his And they worked. Within two and a half at The Fenway Institute, an LGBT health family of synthetic relatives. ribs showed through his chest. months, Cameron says, he was back up to research centre in Boston, published their Steroids bind to hormone receptors in That’s when he turned to his roommate’s his normal weight. He grew in a thick beard work in February, they demonstrated a the body, causing both androgenic effects boyfriend, a local steroid dealer. He liked and new hair on his chest where the old long suspected but little understood link — male characteristics, such as body hair the man’s confident professionalism and had been lasered off. He felt more aggres- between gay men and anabolic steroids. — and, more importantly, anabolic effects: was comforted that his years of steroid use sive, and his friends noticed he was more Only four percent of straight teenagers in muscle growth. 21% 8% 4% seemed to have had no consequences. On intense, more serious and smiled less often.

the study said they had ever used steroids, When a man ingests or injects artificial SOURCE: SEXUAL top of that, the drugs were delivered right But he also had the body and the muscles but among gay and bisexual teens the rate testosterone, the brain signals the pituitary ORIENTATION AND to his door, along with clean needles and he wanted. ANABOLIC-ANDROGENIC shot up to 21 percent. gland to shut down production of natural STEROIDS IN personalized advice. He didn’t have to worry While Cameron started injecting steroids US ADOLESCENT BOYS Gay and bisexual boys were also more likely testosterone and sperm, causing the tes- BY DR AARON BLASHILL about anything. to get back to his normal weight, they are

10 MAY 1–14, 2014 XTRA! TORONTO’S GAY & LESBIAN NEWS called “gay-related immune deficiency,” SURVEY SAYS more likely to want to be muscular. was identified in North America; second, Via squirt.org, Xtra On the other, gay men must fit into a an American bodybuilder named Dan Du- asked men who have gay culture where manliness is a valuable Cameron is now 25 and still uses steroids. chaine published The Underground Steroid sex with men if they commodity. Photo-centred dating and He likes them and has no intention of quit- Handbook and brought practical knowledge use steroids. hook-up apps make a good-looking body ting. If he could afford to add higher-end, about anabolic steroids out of the elite world even more important. Since the appearance more expensive products to his regimen, of sports and made it available to everyone. Have you ever used of steroids, men in gay porn and media have he says, he would. Steroids had been used experimentally steroids or other followed the trend of hulking muscular- “I don’t know how long I’ll do it,” he says. by athletes as early as the 1930s, but in the performance- ity. A mustache and leather chaps are no “As long as I have the money to afford it. enhancing drugs? 1980s, steroid-fuelled bodies were suddenly longer enough for a man to be a man; he I don’t have any problem stopping.” everywhere: on television, in magazines, on needs pecs. A few of Cameron’s friends roll their eyes action figures and in porn. “Just look at the imagery,” Brennan says. when they hear he uses steroids, but most The synchronicity of these two events be- 6% “Look at any ad. Look at any website or shrug it away. In fact, he says, since he’s came immediately meaningful for gay men. No, but I’m In an attempt to avoid the stigma of muscle considering wasting associated with HIV, they eagerly took steroids to show their muscularity, and thereby their health. From this, gay men’s IT’S NO DIFFERENT THAN GETTING MY affinity for steroids was born. 3% At least that was the story until now. We Yes, I’m using don’t know very much about how steroids af- HAIR DYED. IT’S JUST WHAT IT IS. IF YOU fected the HIV-epidemic generation — now in their late 40s, 50s and 60s — and until someone conducts a survey like Blashill’s on WANT TO LIVE THAT LIFE AND YOU’RE men over 50, the link between HIV and ste- 5% Yes, in the past CAMERON, roids is no better than educated speculation. VAIN, THEN GO FOR IT. STEROID USER Either way, the HIV story probably does not apply to the teens in Blashill’s study. The If yes, what have teenagers of today were not even alive during you used? the plague years of the HIV epidemic and profile pic. What are people drawn to? What started using, he notices more and more of likely have never been exposed to the fear of do the models look like in the ads in Xtra? the tell-tale signs of use in other men, gay wasting and thinness that pervaded the 1980s That’s really powerful stuff.” and straight — not just the huge arms and and ’90s. So why are they so eager to bulk up? bowling-ball shoulders, but the perfect hair Body image and sex appeal: and masculine swagger of men who care squeezed between two cultures how they look. It’s all part of the steroid that rank masculinity as a hot life, he says. commodity, more than one in 50% Sure enough, when Blashill took a closer “I do like my look when I’m on them, but five gay and bisexual teens are For David Brennan, a professor of social Testosterone look at his numbers, they showed pressures I realize that it’s just vanity,” he says. “It’s turning to steroids. supplements THINKSTOCK work at the University of Toronto, Blashill’s similar to those identified by Brennan. no different than getting my hair dyed. It’s 14% results make sense. In 2008, he asked 380 Human growth Blashill tracked how likely the teenagers just what it is. If you want to live that life gay men at Toronto Pride about body image hormone in his study were to feel unsafe or victimized, and you’re vain, then go for it. If you don’t, now a regular part of his routine. He takes and behaviour, and the results illuminated 36% use other drugs or suffer from depression. then you don’t have to.” one or two cycles of drugs a year, often top- a web of factors that help to explain the Anabolic steroids Not only did he find that gay and bisexual ping out at a lean 185 pounds, 15 pounds Fenway study. teenagers scored higher on each of these heavier than his original weight. Gay men, he discovered, were more likely metrics, but each was also associated with Why did you start? Steroids are a balancing act, he says; than straight men to suffer from eating higher use of anabolic steroids. holding on to the ideal steroid body too long disorders and to be dissatisfied with their In other words, a substantial part of gay Perhaps the greatest irony of gay men’s has consequences. Last year, he ran one bodies. Eating disorders, in turn, were as- teens’ steroid use was not directly related dalliance with steroids is that one of the cycle too long and found himself breaking sociated with depression, anxiety, internal- to being gay. Instead, the teens were feeling first uses of synthetic testosterone was the out in acne and feeling sick, exhausted and ized homophobia, substance abuse and the depressed and anxious because of the strain medical treatment of homosexuality. hormonal. desire to gain muscle. of being a sexual minority. As a countermea- As early as the 1920s, Viennese urologist “My advice is to remember that it’s tempo- All the pressure of bullying, homophobia, sure, they were taking steroids. Robert Lichtenstern was implanting pieces rary,” he says. “It’s going to be up; it’s going an image-conscious gay culture and the 27% Even when Blashill controlled for all these of human testicle into gay men in an attempt to be down.” constant questioning of their identities as Health external pressures, however, gay teens were to cure them. men, Brennan found, wears at gay men’s 40% still more likely than straight teens to use Despite the obvious failure of the testos- self-esteem and builds a desire for muscular, Appearance steroids. What was the missing factor? Like terone cure, the theory persisted into the 33% masculine bodies. This stress, he thinks, may Performance Brennan, Blashill thinks it is body image. 1940s, when it was at least partly put to rest be driving them to testosterone. It would be easy to imagine that under by Alfred Kinsey. It became apparent, after According to the traditional story, steroids “Over the last couple of decades, the these conditions, older gay men would turn a number of court-ordered testosterone and the hypermuscular gay image appeared pressure on young men to fit in and have a Were they to image-enhancing drugs to keep up with treatments for gay men, that the injections in the 1980s as a reaction to HIV. prescribed by the younger crowd. In this respect, however, were only making gay libidos stronger. certain kind of body is just growing expo- a doctor? In the 1970s, masculinity meant a very nentially,” he says. Brennan’s research offers a ray of hope. If Blashill and Brennan are right, however, different thing. Skinny men wore mustaches Brennan believes gay men are particularly His survey showed that gay men actually steroid use among gay men continues to have and athletic socks in gay porn. The Village likely to choose testosterone because they become progressively less likely to suffer everything to do with manliness. Between two People advertised for new band members feel pressure from both sides. On one side, from disordered eating and poor body im- cultures that both reward macho, the lure of with an ad that read “Macho types wanted” a majority heterosexual culture pushes gay age as they grow older. Instead of compar- masculinity in a syringe is obvious. and scored a cowboy and an Indian with men to fit in and project a masculine image ing themselves to the younger generation, narrow jawlines and slender biceps. to avoid negative stereotypes of effeminacy Brennan says, older gay men seem to be Watch dailyxtra.com for the next install- Then, in 1981, two things happened almost and weakness. It is telling, he thinks, that 36% Yes getting comfortable with their aging bodies, ment of this series, in which we examine the simultaneously: first, a new disease, initially gay men who feel worse about being gay are 64% No muscle loss and all. dangers of steroids.

MORE AT DAILYXTRA.COM XTRA! MAY 1–14, 2014 11 Wife of Japanese PM participates in Tokyo Pride parade Wilde in the north

dailyxtra.com The oft-ignored Canadian leg of Oscar Wilde’s PAUL T. WILLIS B.A., LL.B. Barrister & Solicitor Notary Public North American lecture tour

GENERAL LAW HISTORY BOYS JEREMY WILLARD UÊReal Estate UÊCorporate/Commercial When Oscar Wilde ar- UÊWills/Estates rived in New York City on Jan 3, 1882, he supposedly said to UÊFamily a customs officer, “I have nothing to declare except my genius.” While Wilde would chat with every journalist pos- Day or evening appointments available sible during his 11-month lecture tour of North America, nobody heard him 120 Carlton St., Suite 308 make that particular remark, but it’s so much like the witty things he did say Toronto ON, M5A 4K2 www.paulwillis-law.com that I prefer to think it true. [email protected] Wilde had achieved little by the time 416.926.9806 he turned 27 but was still considered the face of the Aesthetic Movement. In late-Victorian England, his satin In Toronto, Oscar Wilde watched a lacrosse match from the lieutenant governor’s private box. Later, he told the Toronto Globe that he enjoyed the game knee britches, frilly lace collars and and especially a “tall, finely built defence man.” JORI BOLTON penchant for sunflowers made him ripe for parody, and so Gilbert and While his matinee lecture did better, for The Picture of Dorian Gray. Sullivan pressed him into service as he managed to upset the locals by say- In Toronto, when he watched a the silly character of Reginald Bun- ing, “[I] went up the hill behind your lacrosse match from the lieutenant thorne in their comic opera Patience. lovely city.” The Montreal Star sulked, governor’s private box, other attend- Wilde embraced the caricature, and “It was not nice to hear our cherished ees spent as much time craning their NEW COUNSELLING & when the opera’s producer, Richard mountain reduced to a hill.” necks to see him in his black sombrero PSYCHOTHERAPY PRACTICE D’Oyly Carte, decided it would be a He annoyed the people of Ottawa and (most likely) signature bottle- now accepting clients including great marketing gimmick to bring the by criticizing the fauna and flora and green overcoat with fur trim as they real-life Bunthorne to North America, a miasmic lumber mill. His lecture was did watching the match. Later, he told ‡/*%7DQG4(OGHUV Wilde consented. sparsely attended, possibly because the Toronto Globe that he enjoyed ‡6FKRRO$JH&KLOGUHQRI6DPH6H[3DUHQWV Following a glamorous NYC society many locals were at either the Univer- the game and especially a “tall, finely RURID/*%7RU46LQJOH3DUHQW debut, Wilde toured the United States sity of Ottawa’s annual sports banquet built defence man.” Both his Toronto ‡6DPH6H[&RXSOHV from coast to coast, lecturing on aes- or the closing session of Parliament. lectures were packed, and he pro- ‡1HZFRPHUV thetics everywhere from Washington, After his lecture, Wilde, too, visited voked much laughter by condemning DC, to California and back to NYC Parliament, and during the closing “very strenuously” the red table cloth IRUVLWXDWLRQVLQFOXGLQJ again before heading to Canada for debates he perched in the seat next to adorning his speaking table. Overall, ‡/LYLQJZLWK&KURQLF two weeks. In Washington, he met cau- the speaker’s chair. His black-velvet Wilde considered Toronto “a bright 3K\VLFDO 0HQWDO+HDOWK'LDJQRVHV tiously closeted author Henry James, coat and knee britches so thoroughly little town.” ‡6H[XDOLW\ who was wary of Wilde’s flamboyance distracted a Vancouver MP that the He left Canada to tour the American ‡&RQÁLFW (even though Wilde himself was not Ottawa Daily Citizen said the politician south, but before returning to England ‡$GGLFWLRQV out at this point). He also had two visits “forgot for a time the burning wrongs he visited the Canadian Maritimes. with another closeted homosexual, of British Columbia.” Governor Gen- After Wilde’s time in Quebec and 9FRQYHQLHQWVXEZD\ORFDWLRQVHUYLQJ Walt Whitman, and later said to a friend eral the Marquess of Lorne, rumoured Toronto, D’Oyly Carte’s representa- 7RURQWR:HVW0LVVLVVDXJD(DVW in confidence, “I have the kiss of Walt to be homosexual, refrained from at- tive, Colonel Morse, said Canada was 9ZKHHOFKDLUDFFHVVLEOH Whitman still on my lips.” tending Wilde’s lecture or meeting “the most enjoyable part of [Wilde’s] 9HYHQLQJ6DWXUGD\DQG6XQGD\ Wilde’s first Canadian lecture was in with him privately, probably to avoid tour,” but it’s hard to imagine he left DSSRLQWPHQWV Montreal. Some papers welcomed him, providing fodder for gossip. Canada the second time thinking kind 9LQFRPHDGMXVWHGIHHV but La Patrie said that the only people While in Ottawa, Wilde met local thoughts, given how the YMCA in likely to attend his lectures were “all artist Frances Richards. Five years Moncton — the final Canadian city on John Brac,%(G2&706:56: the people of disordered brains, the later, as she painted a portrait of him his tour — nearly had him arrested for   hysterical women, the coxcombs, the in London, he would joke that it was a mix-up over lecture bookings. www.growingheart.ca beggared population.” The lecture was unfortunate that while his picture well-attended but got, as one paper would never age, he would. He later History Boys appears in every issue put it, “only a splutter of cheering.” said this remark was his inspiration of Xtra.

12 MAY 1–14, 2014 XTRA! TORONTO’S GAY & LESBIAN NEWS SHERBOURNE HEALTH CENTRE 333 SHERBOURNE STREET TORONTO, ON M5A 2S5 ‹>>>:/,9)6<95,65*( 3.BT HEA3TH TRANS, INTERSEX & TWO-SPIRIT PRIDE DAY THURSDAY, MAY 22, 6-9PM AT SHERBOURNE HEALTH CENTRE An evening of performances and artwork that celebrate trans, intersex, genderqueer and/or Two-Spirit themes. Everyone welcome. Free event. Presented by Sherbourne Health Centre, Supporting Our Youth and Fred Victor. For information, contact King at [email protected] or 416-324-5083.

MATURE TRANS SISTERS TUESDAYS, 6-9PM MTS is a drop-in group for Mature Trans Women to get together, talk and learn, share resources and support. The group is collectively run by participants and facilitators, and aims to create a safer space for women of all types of trans experience and expression. The group is for women who are 45+. Please contact Ander and King at 416-324-4100 (extension 5230 or 5083) or email mts@ sherbourne.on.ca for accessibility and other information.

WANT TO KEEP UP WITH THE LGBTQ Parenting PARENTING NETWORK? @LGBTQPN Network WWW.LGBTQPARENTINGCONNECTION.CA

:\WWVY[PUN6\Y@V\[O:6@ZLLRZ[VPTWYV]L[OLX\HSP[`VMSPMLMVY3.);`V\[O\W[V  [OYV\NO[OLHJ[P]LPU]VS]LTLU[VMHK\S[Z^VYRPUN[VNL[OLY^P[O`V\[O>VYRPUN^P[OPU Nicholas Banks HUHU[PVWWYLZZPVUMYHTL^VYR:6@KL]LSVWZPUP[PH[P]LZ[OH[I\PSKZRPSSZHUKJHWHJP[PLZ (877) 306-IPRO (4776) WYV]PKLTLU[VYPUNHUKZ\WWVY[HUKU\Y[\YLHZLUZLVMPKLU[P[`HUKILSVUNPUN www.nicholasbanks.ca  ‹ >>>:6@;6965;669. When you are ready to do it SUPPORT SOY! FRUIT LOOPZ YOUTH STAGE AT WORLD PRIDE - PERFORM OR VOLUNTEER! ‘...Thanks Banks...’ We are looking for LGBT2QQ Performers, Artists, Volunteers (under 29)! For performer info, connect with King at [email protected] or 416-324-5083. For artist and volunteer info, connect with Sonny at [email protected] or 416-324-4100 x 5245. Performer and volunteer applications available at www.soytoronto.org.

PINK INK ZINE LAUNCH ™ FRIDAY, MAY 16, 6-9PM AT BUDDIES IN BAD TIMES THEATRE Immigration is for lovers! Join us to celebrate queer, trans and Two-Spirit youth writers! The theme for the 2014 Pink Ink Zine Complete immigration services. Competitive pricing PZ0UÄUP[L4`[OVSVN`L_WSVYPUNT`[OSVZ[Z[VYPLZ\U[VSKZ[VYPLZV\YZ[VYPLZZ[VYPLZVM[OLV[OLYVM Friendly, knowledgeable staff. Extraordinary success rates. ourselves, of possibilities. Free event. Zines for $5. ASL-English interpretation. For information contact Sonny at [email protected] or or 416-324-4100 x 5245.

Not sure where to begin? NEW PROGRAM FOR YOUTH WHO HAVE LEFT OR ARE GETTING READY TO LEAVE CHILDREN’S AID SOCIETY CARE! Call us today for FREE assessment SOY has a new program for youth 16-24 who are or have been in CAS care anywhere in Ontario. We 416-651-8889 can help you with housing, income, jobs, education, life skills and more! Get in touch with Aja at www.immigrationservices.ca [email protected] or 416-324-5091.

Supporting Our @soy_toronto WANT TO KEEP UP WITH SOY? Youth

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MORE AT DAILYXTRA.COM XTRA! MAY 1–14, 2014 13 It’s a funny record! It’s full of jokes! Out inthe City Owen Pallett E 21 Why women are funny

In his 2007 essay “Why Women Aren’t Funny,” drink, relax and trade war stories. Christopher Hitchens opined that the fairer sex Dawn Whitwell is one “When you’re performing, there are usuallyy of SheDot’s featured lacks the chops to make us laugh unless they’re queer comics. only one or two women in the show,” she says. “hefty or dyke-y or Jewish.” The article ignited a “You get used to working in a male-dominated small firestorm, with everyone from Tina Fey to world. But those few days really opened my eyes Joan Rivers calling him out, no doubt giving the to the breadth of talent out there, and I thought, Johnny Walker–guzzling controversy fetishist ‘Hell, I’ll just put my own festival together.’” several years worth of wet dreams. The event features more than 60 performers BadinTO president But when I ask Toronto funny lady Martha from across the US and Canada and includes Vince Chan. JAMES LOURENÇO O’Neill for her thoughts on the Hitch’s musings, standup, improv and sketch comedy. Programs she just shrugs. range from kid-friendly (ShePG) to filth-ridden “Female comics have to be pretty thick-skinned (SheUnleashed) and everything in between. if they’re going to make it,” she says. “I’ve heard There’s also SheLBT, featuring local favourites HOLDING COURT muttered, more than once, as I’ve taken the stage, Martha Chaves, Catherine McCormick and Dawn Another day of pink is coming, and this ‘Oh great, it’s a woman.’ I’ve also been told many Whitwell. time, there might be some bullying — but times by audience members that they don’t usu- While hilarity will undoubtedly fill the stage, only on the courts. ally like female comics but thought I was funny, O’Neill is not sure who, exactly, will fill the house. BadinTO, Toronto’s gay and lesbian as if that’s a compliment.” Will an all-female comedy festival attract an all- badminton club, turned 10 this year, and in O’Neill and her team are set to show up Hitch- female audience, or will the boys turn out, too? the spirit of celebration, its season-ending ens with the SheDot Festival of Funny Women. —Chris Dupuis open doubles tournament, the Queen’s The idea germinated not in a comedy club as Cup, will have a pink and white theme (on might be expected, but at O’Neill’s family cot- SheDot: Toronto’s Festival of Funny Women runs top of the medals available in all catego- tage. Last summer, she hosted Festi-Vag there, Thurs, May 1–Sun, May 4 at Comedy Bar, 945 Bloor ries, from beginner through elite, there’s a an open invitation event for women comics to St W. shedotfestival.com prize for the best-dressed team). President Vince Chan is proud of BadinTO’s reputation for being fun and inclusive, which, he notes, doesn’t just happen: it’s the club’s mission. “It’s about respect: respect for each other, respect for the different levels of play.” It’s about what Beyond the happens off the courts, too: “Everybody socializes. It’s like a family. I think that’s the reason our club is one of the most popular gay clubs in Toronto.” mainstream Third-year player Ethan Han agrees. He used to be a member of another gay The future of television isn’t even on television. sports club, “but I didn’t feel like I belonged Whether it’s streaming content on Netflix, to it: we’d practise, then everyone would downloading episodes via iTunes or watching just leave. The badminton club is different. viral videos on YouTube, the internet now plays Also, nobody makes beginners feel bad, a huge role in the way people consume entertain- and people are competitive without being ment. But for some, the web isn’t just a convenient aggressive and pushy.” method of distribution. Chan is proud of what the club’s become “The internet has become a fantastic platform but feels there’s still work to be done. For for independent creators to bring their projects one thing, he’d like to see more of a gender Images from the queer to life,” says Regan Latimer, producer and creator balance: women represent just over 10 content at TO WebFest. of popular web series BJ Fletcher: Private Eye percent of the membership. This past year and Witch Like Me. “It allows creators a direct has seen a dedicated group showing up connection to their audience, and the space is Similar festivals have popped up across the bringing projects and stories of LGBT interest to regularly, however, and he hopes the trend teeming with talent.” globe, including in Los Angeles, London and Rome. an audience eager and hungry for it.” The LGBT will continue. Latimer is also director of programming at this But a unique component of Toronto’s festival is series includes projects from the US (Producing One of those dedicated women is Tera year’s TO WebFest, the city’s first web-series- a dedicated conference track, featuring panels Juliet), the UK (The Vessel) and Canada (Gay Nerds Mallette, but her passion for the sport goes specific festival. The three-day event features free and events with topics that range from branded and Leslieville), to name a few. only so far: “I won’t be wearing pink for the screenings of web series from around the world. entertainment and product placement to audience “Queer storytellers are bringing characters to Queen’s Cup,” she says, unequivocally. Latimer describes it as “a celebration and show- development and digital distribution platforms. life that you don’t necessarily see in the main- — Lesley Fraser case of some of the amazing and unique narrative Featured genres include kids and youth, drama, stream. [The festival] is a great opportunity to stories being told on the web. [It will] not only comedy, sci-fi and fantasy, LGBT, pulp and horror, sample what’s out there and available on the web,” The Queen’s Cup is Sat, May 31, 8:30–5pm, shine a spotlight on creators and their series, but and documentary and lifestyle. Latimer says. —JP Larocque with a banquet to follow in the evening; all also provide an open forum for industry, creators “I am especially proud that we have a dedicated players are welcome. Deadline to register is and audience alike to discuss and discover this screening block for LGBT content,” Latimer says. TO WebFest runs Fri, May 9–Sun, May 11 at Harbour- Wed, May 22. badinto.com growing and ever-evolving medium.” “The web has always been an incredible outlet for front Centre, 235 Queens Quay W. towebfest.com

14 MAY 1–14, 2014 XTRA! TORONTO’S GAY & LESBIAN NEWS Exploring: never stop Single Tablet Regimens While they’re not a cure, these treatment options are designed (one pill, once a day) are a step forward in HIV treatment. to be effective and convenient. If you’ve been exploring different HIV treatments, talk to your doctor about Single Tablet Regimens Explore more at exploreHIV.ca too. It’s good to know what is out there.

MORE AT DAILYXTRA.COM XTRA! MAY 1–14, 2014 15 PRESENTING SPONSOR

SPECIAL FUNDRAISING EVENT FRIDAY MAY 23RD 9:00PM

MATT The Normal HeartCanadian Premiere Directed by Ryan Murphy (Glee, American Horror Story) and featuring an all-star cast BOMER that includes Julia Roberts, Mark Ruffalo, Jim Parsons, Matt Bomer and Taylor Kitsch, & GUESTS the fi lm is an emotionally powerful refl ection on the advent of the AIDS epidemic. IN ATTENDANCE Inside Out, in partnership with HBO Canada and Canadian Foundation for AIDS Research, is pleased to present a special premiere screening of the fi lm adaptation of Larry Kramer’s Tony Award-winning play, The Normal Heart.

The screening will be preceded by an exclusive VIP cocktail reception (including host bar and hors d’oeuvres) from 6:30-8:30pm. Details will be provided with ticket. TICKET PRICES: Film Only: $40 General Public/$30 Inside Out members. Film (priority seating) and Pre-Screening Reception: $150 General Public/$125 Inside Out members (a tax receipt will be issued for the maximum amount allowable). All proceeds from the screening and reception will benefi t Inside Out and CANFAR.

TH TH | FOUNDING MEMBER TICKETS ON SALE MAY 6 PUBLIC TICKETS ON SALE MAY 8 MEDIA SPONSOR ALL SCREENINGS AT TIFF BELL LIGHTBOX I FULL DETAILS: insideout.ca Photo courtesy of HBO Canada HBO of courtesy Photo

16 MAY 1–14, 2014 XTRA! TORONTO’S GAY & LESBIAN NEWS PRESENTING SPONSOR

Toronto LGBT Film Festival Gala Presentations

Opening Gala Women’s Gala Centrepiece Gala Closing Gala THE WAY HE LOOKS TRU LOVE LOVE IS STRANGE 52 TUESDAYS (HOJE EU QUERO VOLTAR Saturday, May 24 | 7:30 PM Tuesday, May 27 | 9:30 PM Sunday, June 1 | 7:30 PM SOZINHO) Kate Johnson & Shauna MacDonald Ira Sachs Sophie Hyde Thursday, May 22 | 8:00 PM Canada 2013 87:00 | Canadian Premiere USA 2014 98:00 | Canadian Premiere Australia 2013 114:00 | Canadian Premiere Daniel Riberio Who knows what attracts us to someone: beauty, After 39 years together, Ben (John Lithgow) and Sixteen-year-old Billie’s reluctant path to Brazil 2014 95:00 | Canadian Premiere a dazzling smile or the way a laugh line crinkles George (Alfred Molina) fi nally tie the knot. But independence is accelerated when her mother just so. For 37-year-old Toronto dyke, Tru—a when the Catholic school where George works reveals plans to change genders. It is decided Leonardo is a blind teenager struggling to notorious womanizer with intimacy issues— it learns of their nuptials, he is fi red. Suddenly, the that Billie will live with her father, Tom, for a break free from his well-meaning friends and happens to be all of those things and more, as couple fi nd that they can’t afford the rent on their year and will see James once a week. As Billie family. When new student Gabriel arrives at she fi nds herself falling for her friend Suzanne’s Chelsea apartment. As a temporary solution, attempts to adjust, she develops an intense new school, he befriends Leonardo and Giovana mother, the beguiling 60-year-old Alice. Despite George crashes with gay cop neighbours, while friendship with two older schoolmates, which and the trio become inseparable. Through their age difference, Tru and Alice have an Ben moves in with his nephew’s family. The pain serves as a catalyst to self-discovery. timid conversations and intimate moments immediate connection. Suzanne, however, sees of living apart and their presence in two foreign spent alone, Leo and Gabriel’s friendship gently Best Director Award (World Cinema Dramatic), where this friendship is headed and sets out to ruin households test the resilience and relationships evolves to reveal deeper feelings. 2014 Sundance Film Festival the blossoming relationship. of everyone involved. Teddy Award for Best Feature, Crystal Bear (Generation 14plus), 2014 Berlin 2014 Berlin International Film Festival International Film Festival

Member Tickets On Sale May 6 th Public Tickets On Sale May 8 th

ALL SCREENINGS AT TIFF BELL LIGHTBOX | FULL DETAILS: insideout.ca | #SEEFORYOURSELF

INTERCONTINENTAL TORONTO CENTRE gaycast.net CHARLES STREET VIDEO STEAM WHISTLE

MORE AT DAILYXTRA.COM XTRA! MAY 1–14, 2014 17 or Devon Poole, the art of drag is a religious experience. In his new photo series, the sinfully sacrilicious Seven Deadly Marys, he shot some of the city’s most notori- ous drag and trans performers all dolled up à la Mother of God. As well as embodying the Virgin Mary, each subject also represents one of the seven deadly sins, meaning we get Lexi Sanfino as a BDSM-flavoured FOur Lady of Lust, Donnarama as a McDonald’s- themed Our Lady of Gluttony (yes, she is crying ketchup), and Tynomi Banks as a blinged-out Our Lady of Greed. The images are strikingly campy, deliciously wicked and surprisingly pretty. Is Poole a lapsed Catholic striking back against the famously homophobic institution by queering some of its most sacred iconography? Surpris- ingly, no. “I do not have a religious background,” he admits. “I was raised by a single mother who is a painter and a sculptor, so I was introduced to art at a very early age.” And the inspiration for shooting his blasphe- mous beauties? Appropriately enough, it came to him in a vision. “The first image that popped into my mind was a Ronald McDonald Virgin Mary. I thought it would be a challenge to try to reimagine a religious icon in my dramatic aesthetic. And through researching the subject, I read that Mary was born and lived free of sin. I thought it would be a great contradiction having her represent each sin.” As an artist, Poole has been experimenting with drag, both in his photography and personally, since day one. “As a child, I was always dressing up in my mother’s clothes,” he says. “I even dressed up as Wonder Woman for Halloween when I was four. I have dabbled in drag for years and have known people in the community for just as long.” Those connections certainly paid off when Poole was tasked with finding models for the series, especially when it came to casting his longtime collaborator Donnarama as Gluttony herself. “I love working with her!” he says. “We are both fearless and want to push boundaries and make art outside of the box.” Before her current stint as one Holy Mother, Donnarama has appeared in Poole’s work as everything from Frida Kahlo to Lady Gaga to Optimus Prime. “Anything experimental in terms of costume and makeup and I’m in,” Donnarama DEADLY says, though she admits it was hard keeping a straight face with a mouth stuffed with french fries. “I like the idea of toying with the concept of spiritual fulfilment through over-indulgence, hoarding from fast-food chains and department stores. It’s magical and miserable at the same time. Also, I like the name Mary: a common term for addressing a queen and also the mother of Jesus. They have finally met in chaotic irony, amen!” While Donnarama was the only model he knew MARYS personally before the series, being a member of the drag community allowed Poole to connect Toronto photographer Devon Poole easily with other queens he knew by reputa- tion. “Everyone was really excited to be part of the work,” he says, “and I couldn’t have done it gives the Mother of God a makeover without them.”

Right, Devon Poole’s interpretation of Gluttony BY JOHNNIE WALKER (Donnarama). Opposite page, clockwise from top left: Pride (Lexi Sanfino), Envy (Sapphire Tithi-Reign), Sloth (Allysin Chaynes), Lust (Lexi Sanfino), Greed (Tynomi Banks) and Wrath (Fabulous Russella).

18 MAY 1–14, 2014 XTRA! toronto’s gay & lesbian news I ALWAYS WANT TO PUSH THE ENVELOPE AND MAKE PEOPLE QUESTION THE WORK, AND THEMSELVES.

Although Poole approached each image with a specific idea in mind, each picture strongly bears the influence and personality of its model. “Each really fills out the role with their own character and personal dynamic,” Donnarama agrees. “They illuminate the concept with their own distinct personality and style. It’s both an exaggeration of character and role play; there’s a lot to take in and observe... basically, everything a drag queen has to offer times 10.” Thanks largely to the success of RuPaul’s Drag Race, drag culture is having a bit of a moment. Lingo like “throwing shade” and “serving fish” has been creeping into the common parlance, and you don’t have to have a Paris Is Burning DVD to get in on the kiki anymore. In fact, Poole’s photo series, with its glossy, polished aesthetic and tongue-in- cheek sensibility, could almost be an especially outré Drag Race challenge. “I definitely think RuPaul’s Drag Race has brought drag culture to a broader audience, es- pecially to younger LGBTQ teens,” Poole says. “I would have loved a TV show like it when I was younger. But I wouldn’t go so far as to say drag has gone mainstream. I think there’s a large part of the population that still doesn’t know much about or understand the art, so along with fans of drag, I’d like to reach those people with my work, too, and open people’s eyes to a new way of seeing the world around them.” And on the off chance Logo caught wind of his work and asked him to design his own challenge for the latest batch of competing queens? “I think a photo shoot where the queens recreate childhood photos of themselves, but in drag, could be a lot of fun,” Poole says. It’s a disarmingly sweet concept for a competition that’s often preoccupied with drama and bitchy one-liners. “It would be a great way to get to know the contestants and shed some light on what their childhoods were like. For most LGBTQ kids, it’s not easy growing up feeling different.” While he may have just completed work on what many would consider the mother of all drag-related photo series, Poole isn’t planning to untuck just yet. “For my next series, I will be doing something more erotic that plays around with masculinity and femininity. Not to give too much away, but it will be very Tom of Finland meets glamazon supermodel: very genderbend- ing and sexy.” Part of Poole’s goal is to respond to men who told him that the idea of him in drag was a sexual turnoff. “I always want to push the envelope and make people question the work, and themselves.”

To check out more of Poole’s work or to buy prints from the Seven Deadly Marys series, visit him online at www.devonpoole.com.

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20 MAY 1–14, 2014 XTRA! TORONTO’S GAY & LESBIAN NEWS It don’t get better For Owen Pallett, it’s always a struggle, but that’s not a bad thing

PLAYLISP KEVIN RITCHIE

Owen Pallett is en route Owen Pallett’s new from Los Angeles to album, In Conflict, will Palm Springs ahead of Arcade Fire’s be released later this headlining set on the second weekend month. PETER JUHL of the Coachella Festival. The 34-year-old Toronto-bred, Montreal-based violinist is part of the Grammy-winning group’s Reflektor tour and is also pulling double duty doing interviews to promote his fourth album, In Conflict, which comes out in May. In this case, that means unpacking his issues around craziness and gender for crafting frenetic, intertwining or- “I make no secret about the fact that with a reporter during the hour-and- chestral and synth arpeggios. songwriting drives me crazy. [The three-quarter car ride. “This is getting a The songs are personal and pointed. tour] removes the necessity of paying little bit heavy for me. Why are you ask- The opening track, “I Am Not Afraid,” the bills with songwriting — at least ing me heavy questions?” he protests. uses gender-neutral pronouns as a symbolically — which has been a good “It’s a funny record! It’s full of jokes!” statement of support for people caught move for me psychologically.” In Conflict is Pallett’s most direct up in confusion; “The Passions” tack- Despite the four-year period between album in terms of lyrical sentiment. les age gaps in sex with a wink to albums, Pallett says that making In Whereas the songs on 2010’s Heartland Morrissey-esque melodrama; and on Conflict was less stressful than making MAY 9 & 10 were couched in an epic, homoerotic “The Secret Seven” he belts out his Heartland. He recruited his former Les narrative about a hunky religious phone number after warning listeners, Mouches bandmates Rob Gordon and zealot named Lewis who engages in a “It don’t get better.” Matt Smith to toughen up the rhythm RUFF: BY SPLIT BRITCHES series of dialogues with his omnipotent He describes that song as an alter- section and give the songs more of a creator (Pallett), this one does not hang nate take on American sex columnist live feel; English musician Brian Eno A SOLO PERFORMANCE BY PEGGY SHAW, DIRECTED BY LOIS WEAVER on a fantastical parable. Dan Savage’s campaign against homo- contributed synths, guitars and vocals. Pallett has been working on the al- phobic bullying. He asked the legendary producer to col- 8PM DANIELS SPECTRUM, 585 DUNDAS ST. EAST bum for the past four years between “If the record has a message, it’s kind laborate after meeting him in person, jobs that have included arranging of the message,” Pallett explains. “I felt but they worked together remotely. string parts for pop star Taylor Swift, as if the It Gets Better campaign did not “He worked incredibly fast and in- “I found myself composing for the National Ballet of speak to me of my experience. I have credibly enthusiastically,” Pallett says. praying: If you get Canada and scoring film soundtracks not found any links in my life between “He’s the best. I recommend him to me through this I for directors M Blash and Spike Jonze. my own issues of craziness and queer- everybody.” Earlier this year, the score he and ness, which seemed to be a main focal Now that In Conflict is complete, will stop wearing Arcade Fire’s Will Butler composed point — with statistics to back it up — of Pallett is filling up his schedule. The suits. I will get for Jonze’s Her received an Academy the It Gets Better campaign. Arcade Fire tour runs through August. married. I will pay Award nomination and, although they “My experience has not been one of After that, he will perform a series of market rent in didn’t win, the pair was invited to an finding my own craziness alleviated solo dates in support of In Conflict. (He Academy-organized dinner in Los as I’ve gotten older, become finan- will play a handful of release shows Manhattan. I will Angeles with legendary composers cially independent, fallen in love and, in May, including a Toronto gig on not wear skinny and songwriters John Williams, Randy you know, realized my dreams!” he May 10.) jeans. I’ll take anti- Newman, Thomas Newman and Burt continues. “That does not negate Dan He also recently wrote a series of ar- Bacharach. Savage’s message but speaks more of ticles for Slate that examine pop hits by depressants.” “Burt Bacharach and I bonded over my experience, which is that it does Katy Perry, Daft Punk and Lady Gaga Montreal because he went to McGill not get fucking better at all. It’s always using music theory, and he collabo- TICKETS AVAILABLE AT for a period and I had been to his last a struggle, and that’s not necessarily a rated on a 12-inch single with dance concert there. He’s just about the most bad thing.” producer Caribou, aka Dan Snaith, that TANGLEDARTS.ORG charming man you could ever imag- Pallett has, however, found links is going over well in clubs. ine,” Pallett says. “It was the best night between craziness and songwriting. “I’m really proud of it,” Pallett says. I’ve had this year so far.” That’s part of the reason he signed on “I love working with Dan. We’ve been The next milestone on his schedule to Arcade Fire’s exhaustive world tour. working on other stuff together, but I’ll is the release of In Conflict, an album “I thought it would be a good way for leave that for another press release.” that draws upon his thoughts on love me to reposition myself mentally,” he and the human condition and his knack says of deciding to tour with the band. In Conflict will be released May 27.

MORE AT DAILYXTRA.COM XTRA! MAY 1–14, 2014 21 St. John’s Norway Cemetery and Crematorium ŲŵŶɠ #(!-.)(ɠźɠ.ɠ))#( HAVE YOU HAD A LOVED ONE DIE? Chapel and Crematorium ,#)/-ɠ)*.#)(-ɠ ),ɠ3)/,ɠ#(. ,' (.ɠ( -ɠƀɠ , 0 ' (.ɠ, ɠ0#&& #( )ƞ-.$)"(-(),13 ' . ,3źɠƀɠŴűŶƐŶŹűƐŲŹŶŵ )(3ɠƑɠ,#3ɠŸ'Ɛŵ*'Żɠ./,3ɠŹ'Ɛų*' THE LITTLE ARMY STORE TOP QUALITY AUTHENTIC MILITARY SURPLUS & WORK WEAR BEST PRICES IN CANADA 50 NORTHLINE RD. PLEASE COME ENTRANCE ON BERMONDSEY RD. AND SEE US EAST YORK, TORONTO AT OUR NEW 416-759-8038 LARGER LOCATION.

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22 MAY 1–14, 2014 XTRA! TORONTO’S GAY & LESBIAN NEWS Puppy Pool Night Kinky puppy-boys get on their hoods and collars and play pool in a friendly environment. Handlers and pup-lovers are encouraged, given that the bar is not an off - leash area. Thurs, May 15, 7pm. WHAT'S ON Pegasus, 289 Church St. Free. pegasusonchurch.com FOR MORE EVENT LISTINGS, GO TO DAILYXTRA.COM

Club120 Wednesday THEATRE ART Standup comedian Mandy Goodhandy presents a weekly Hedwig and Standing Ground: open-mic comedy night. For more the Angry Inch Estates of Robert info, contact toddklinck@gmail. Nathaniel Bacon stars as Hedwig Flack and Will Munro com. Every Wednesday, 8pm–1am. in the rock musical about “a slip Club120, 120 Church St. No cover. of a girly boy” from East Germany This exhibit focuses on Flack’s club120.ca brought to the US as an army Empowerment (1990) and a series bride. Lower Ossington Theatre, of Munro’s untitled photographs 100 Ossington Ave. Runs until Sat, (2004). Opening reception Fri, May 17, various showtimes. $49. May 2, 7–10pm; exhibit runs Fri, GAYMERS lowerossingtontheatre.com May 2–Sat, May 31. Paul Petro May Social: Anime Contemporary Art, 980 Queen St W. Hackerlove Free. paulpetro.com North Edition Inspired by Chelsea (the erstwhile As a lead-up to the Anime North Bradley) Manning and Adrian Sex Lives and Videotape convention, the Toronto Gaymers Lamo, Sky Gilbert’s new play is gather to watch anime, play anime- An array of footage provides a about a queer love aff air between inspired video games and compare Hedwig — Lower chance to contemplate the role two fi ctional characters in the midst cutesy costumes. Sat, May 3, Ossington Theatre, until that home video played in the of the 2010 WikiLeaks scandal. 2–10pm. The Marquis of Granby, 418 Sat, May 17 SEANNA KENNEDY recording of Canadian queer history Runs until Sun, May 11, various Church St. Free. torontogaymers.ca pre-YouTube. Opening reception is showtimes. Buddies in Bad Times, Thurs, May 8, 6–9pm; exhibit runs Play Again? and help with forms and letters. Sherbourne Health Centre, Yogi Bare: 12 Alexander St. PWYC–$30. until Fri, June 6. Canadian Lesbian buddiesinbadtimes.com and Gay Archives, 24 Isabella St. Gamers gather to play Super The confi dential and private visits 2nd fl oor, 333 Sherbourne St. Free. All-Gender, Clothing- are fi rst-come, fi rst-served. Bring soytoronto.org Free. clga.ca Mario, Tetris and other games Optional Yoga The Last Confession on a big screen, as well as board any necessary documents. Every Whether toga-draped or David Suchet, best known for Hungry Bottom games like Trivial Pursuit and Thursday; registration 6–6:30pm. Positive Routes bare-assed, folks are invited to playing the strangely mustachioed Scrabble. Every Tuesday, 7pm–2am. The 519 Community Centre, 519 to Recovery Comics 2012–2014 get comfortable at this soothing Belgian sleuth Poirot, stars as Henhouse, 1532 Dundas St W. Free. Church St. Free. the519.org A peer-led support group for gay This four-day celebration of the yoga session. Every Sunday, Cardinal Giovanni Benelli, a man henhousetoronto.com men working through substance release of Eric Williams’s Hungry 1:15–2:30pm. Glad Day Bookshop, who must investigate the sudden FTM Support Group abuse issues. Takes place the fi rst Bottom Comics 3 and The Collected 598 Yonge St. $20, $15 students. and mysterious death of Pope Board Games Night Trans men share their experiences and third Tuesday of each month. Hungry Bottom Comics includes a yogibare.ca John Paul I. Runs until Sun, June 1, The focus of this month’s Board in a supportive environment. Takes Tues, May 6, 6–8pm. The 519 live reading and a sale of original various showtimes. Royal Alexandra Games Night is Netrunner and place the fi rst and third Friday of Community Centre, 519 Church St. artwork. Opening night is Thurs, May Queer Slowdance: Theatre, 260 King St W. $35–119. Star Trek Catan. Other games, each month. For more information, Free. pr2r.org 15, 7–9pm; exhibit runs until Sun, Pajama Party Edition mirvish.com such as Bananagrams, 7 Wonders contact [email protected]. Fri, May 18. Videofag, 187 Augusta Ave. Butt wigglers set up dances with and Jenga, will also be on hand. May 2, and Fri, May 16, 7:30pm. The LEGIT Free. videofag.com one another using dance cards, Sat, May 10, 7pm–midnight. Glad 519 Community Centre, 519 Church Legal counsel for same-sex couples while designated dancers coax Day Bookshop, 598 Yonge St. $6. St. Free. the519.org immigrating to Canada. Tap into out the wallfl owers. Sat, May 10, torontogaymers.ca the community and access useful 10pm–3am. Dovercourt House, COMEDY & CABARET SlutWalk Toronto 2014 resources. Takes place the second 805 Dovercourt Rd. $10 admission Planning Meeting Thursday of each month. Thurs, Paul Bellini’s Liar includes dance-card booklet. HEALTH & This SlutWalk meeting is for May 8, 7–10pm. The 519 Community Liar Pants on Fire people interesting in getting Centre, 519 Church St. Free. legit.ca Guests tell dubious tales and ISSUES involved, sharing thoughts audience members are challenged or assisting with SEX & to decide whether the stories are The 519 planning or execution. true. Fri, May 2, 9pm. The Flying LEISURE & PLEASURE Legal Clinic Sat, May 3, 1–3pm. The BURLESQUE Beaver, 488 Parliament St. No cover. 519 Community Centre, A free, accessible service CraftActionTO: Dyke pubaret.com 519 Church St. Free. Latex and Laced for low-income people. March Banner Project the519.org Latex and lace-clad guests enjoy a Volunteer lawyers provide Crafty dykes hang out and create burlesque performance by Esther Yogi Bare — Glad Day legal advice, banners for the Dyke March at SOY Monday De Ville and a fashion show by Bookshop, Sundays at 1:15pm referrals WorldPride. All materials are Night Drop-In two fetish-clothing designers. provided. For more info, contact Open to people of all genders and Queer youth ages 14 [email protected]. Every orientations. Sun, May 4, 8pm–3am. to 29 gather to watch Wednesday until June 11, 6–8pm. Oasis Aqualounge, 231 Mutual St. movies, participate Yorkville Public Library, 22 Yorkville $30. oasisaqualounge.com in art projects and Ave. Free. craftactionto.tumblr.com Standing workshops, and Pup Night talk to Supporting Ground — Strip Spelling Bee: Argo hosts this event where sexy Our Youth’s Paul Petro Whoa! Edition pups can get hooded, collared and community mentors. gallery, until It’s much like strip poker, but it’s put their paws on and romp with For more info, Sat, May 31 a spelling bee and there’s an like-minded pets. No dress code. contact jcaff ery@ WILL MUNRO audience of horny hecklers. Fri, Thurs, May 8, 10pm. The Black sherbourne.on.ca. May 2, 11pm–2am. Buddies in Bad Eagle, 457 Church St. No cover. Every Monday, The Mystery of Times, 12 Alexander St. $10, free for blackeagletoronto.com 5:30–8pm. competitors. buddiesinbadtimes.com Edwin Drood Beyoncé vs Rihanna Inspired by Charles Dickens’s Get Out! Running Group Burlesque unfi nished fi nal novel, the cast members dance and sing their People of all experience levels This Platinum Production diva- way to a diff erent audience- stay in shape while dashing off pitches the songs of Beyoncé chosen ending each night. Al around Toronto’s streets against those of Rihanna to Green Theatre, Miles Nadal Jewish and trails. Every Sunday, determine whose best complement Community Centre, 750 Spadina 10am–11:30am. the art of burlesque. Sat, May 10, Ave. Runs Fri, May 2–Sun, May 11, Fuel Plus, 471 10pm. Club120, 120 Church St. $10. various showtimes. $27–32. Church St. Free. club120.ca getoutcanada.com alexandershowcasetheatre.com

MORE AT DAILYXTRA.COM XTRA! MAY 1–14, 2014 23 Hairwave DJ Madame Hair spins Ultimate Thursday DJ Craig ultra sonic, groovy, psychedelic Dominic plays top 40, dance, EDM, and rock ’n’ roll delights. 9:30pm. urban, dancehall and soca beats. Magpie, 831 Dundas St W. No cover. 10pm. Crews & Tangos, 508 Church Ax Gogo-rama DJ Alex spins top- St. No cover. crewsandtangos.com 40 remixes, vocal house, EDM, The Smirnoff Best Chest J- and K-pop for the all-night Contest DJ Mark Falco spins for CLUB SCENE Ax Maximus go-go event. 10pm. the boys showing their pecs for Phoenix, 410 Sherbourne St. $5 $300 in cash prizes. Midnight. before 10:30pm, $10 until 11:30pm, Woody’s, 467 Church St. No cover. $15 after. meetmeatax.com woodystoronto.com DND DJs Dwayne Minard and Mike B spin house music for daddies and Fri, May 9 daddy chasers. 10pm. WAYLA, 996 That Time of the Month DJs Alex Queen St E. $5. facebook.com/ and Devon spin soul and R&B tracks waylabarnounge sung by passionate women. 10pm. Tramp DJ Jacqie Jaguar spins for Henhouse, 1532 Dundas St W. dykes, rug munchers, femmes and henhousetoronto.com lezzies. 10pm. The Steady, 1051 Bloor Bass in the Place DJs Ticky Ty, St W. No cover. thesteadycafe.com Terry Funk, House H3ads, Ace of Tapette DJs Phil V and Guillaume Clubs, Adriane S, Apsis, Pdot Ill Moff et spin faggy French pop and more spin drum and bass, and house, while go-go boy dubstep and trap beats. 10pm. Currtis Jay entertains. 10:30pm. Fly, 8 Gloucester St. $15, $300 VIP Henhouse, 1532 Dundas St W. $5. package. fl ynightclub.com henhousetoronto.com Her DJs Kiki LeFreak, Blake and Ax Gogo-rama — Phoenix, Omgblog.com spin house, disco and Sat, May 3 DOMINIC CHAN Sun, May 4 electro. 11pm. La Perla, 783 Queen Sweat DJ Blackcat spins house, St W. $5. herherher.com new disco and top-40 remixes for of the King of Pop’s Xscape. 10pm. jock or naked in boots encouraged. the socializing folks of Spearhead Sat, May 10 WAYLA, 996 Queen St E. No cover. Free clothes check. 1pm–5pm. Toronto LDSC. 5–10pm. Black Michael Jackson Video Dance facebook.com/waylabarnounge Black Eagle, 457 Church St. $10. Eagle, 457 Church St. No cover. Party DJ Truewind spins top 40, Trade DJs David Picard and Scooter dragonmstr.com spearheadtoronto.com house, hip hop and remixes in spin deep, tech house for the Mother’s Day at Woody’s Latex and Lace DJ Quinces spins tribute to the posthumous release frisky lads and bearded bad boys. Hollywoody Broadway Show, with for the pansexual fashion show and Hosted by Scooter McCreight and A the return of Miss Conception, play party. Hosted by Blair Ryder; Bearded Boy. 10pm. Black Eagle, 457 at 6pm; Old School, hosted by featuring designs by Raezor and Church St. $5 before midnight, $10 Georgie Girl, with Bunni Lapin Katrina Mior, live burlesque and after. facebook.com/getsometrade and birthday girl Carlotta Carlisle, a costume contest. 8pm. Oasis Bump N’ Hustle DJs Paul E Lopes at 9pm; Five Smokin Hot Divas, Aqualounge, 231 Mutual St. $30, and Mike Tull spin soul, funk, house, hosted by Georgie Girl, with $15 for Ryerson students with disco and boogie tunes. Hosted by Scarlett Bobo, Vitality Black and Business Woman’s Special — valid ID. oasisaqualounge.com Carlos Mondesir. 10pm. Rivoli, 332 guests, plus DJ Blue Peter, at 11pm. The Round, Sat, May 10 Queen St W. $10. rivoli.ca Woody’s, 467 Church St. No cover. N MAXWELL LANDER woodystoronto.com Mon, May 5 Bush Beat DJs Shoegayz and Pony Dodgeballer Night The spin for the ladies at the cruisy Mon, May 12 Thurs, May 1 10:30pm–2:30am. Black Eagle, 457 Gay Ball Society hosts a fl irty dance party. 10pm. Henhouse, 1532 Church St. blackeagletoronto.com social, with DJ Blue Peter on Dundas St W. henhousetoronto.com RuPaul’s Drag Race Viewing Random Play DJ Dwayne Minard Secondhand Prom DJ Teddy the decks. 8pm. Woody’s, 467 Church Business Woman’s Special: Party Scarlett Bobo and Daytona spins disco, yacht rock, new wave K spins for the Canadian launch of St. No cover. woodystoronto.com Wig Party Edition DJs Nino Brown, Bitch host the dinner and bitchfest and more. 10pm. WAYLA, 996 The Worn Archive: A Fashion Journal Phil V and Sammy Royale spin for every Monday, with Bradley serving Queen St E. No cover. facebook. about the Art, Ideas, and History Tues, May 6 the Queers of Kensington. 10pm. up food and libation. 8pm. The 8th com/waylabarnounge Deadly Sin, 6 Gloucester St. No of What We Wear. Prom-inspired Varsity Tuesday Sofonda Round, 152A Augusta Ave. $6. cover. the8th.ca attire encouraged. 9pm. Adelaide Cox hosts the amateur roundvenue.com Fri, May 2 Hall, 250 Adelaide St W. No cover So You Think You Can Pitbull: Sweat It Out DJs Mark Glitz & Glam Carlotta Carlisle Besharam 10th Anniversary with purchase of book; $15 advance Strip? competition, with Falco and Dwayne Minard spin and Katinka Kature perform bling DJ Amita spins Bollywood, bhangra at Type Books, 883 Queen St W. a $100 cash prize. 11pm. anthems, vocals, house and drag onstage, with razor-sharp and Asian underground to celebrate wornfashionjournal.com Remington’s, 379 Yonge cardio-pumping beats. 10pm. tongues and larger-than-life a decade of South Asian–style St. $5 before 11pm, $7 Fly, 8 Gloucester St. $10 costumes. 9–11pm. Crews & Tangos, partying. 10pm–3am. Fly, 8 after; no cover with advance. pitbullevents.com 508 Church St. No cover. Gloucester St. $20. besharam.ca crewsandtangos.com student ID before 11pm, Sulty Saturday DJ Big Primpin’ DJs Kevin Ritchie and $2 after. remingtons.com Cajjmere Wray spins house Nino Brown spin hip hop for homos. and vocals for the popular Tues, May 13 10pm. Wrongbar, 1279 Queen St W. Wed, May 7 weekly party. 11pm. Woody’s Tuesday DJ Mark Falco $5. big-primpin.com 120 Wednesday Calling Byzantium, 499 Church spins for boys taking advantage Elle DJs L Rock and D XXX spin hip all standup comedians! St. No cover. byz.ca of the low day prices. 8pm. hop, R&B, world, house, reggae and Mandy Goodhandy Woody’s, 467 Church St. No cover. more for the new women’s party. presents the weekly open- Sun, May 11 woodystoronto.com 10pm. Church, 504 Church St. $5. mic night; performers must Oink Master Tony Karaoke with Woofer With churchonchurch.com show up between 8pm and (ILS 2009) hosts the thousands of songs to choose from, Cruiseline’s Best Men’s Ass 8:45pm. Advance booking: men-only, no-holds- it’s always a party. 10pm. WAYLA, Contest Georgie Girl and Vitality contact toddklinck@gmail. barred dungeon/play 996 Queen St E. facebook.com/ Black perform and bring bare- com. 8pm. Club120, 120 party, with slings, a waylabarnounge bottomed boys to the stage to Church St. No cover. club120.ca fuck bench and a vie for the $300 in cash prizes. DJ water-sports area. Wed, May 14 Mark Falco on decks. Midnight. Thurs, May 8 Leather and gear, Crews & Tangos Wednesday Soul Woody’s, 467 Church St. No cover. Pup Night Argo hosts a night Sistas, with Michelle Ross and Jada woodystoronto.com of pup play, with role-playing, Hudson, at 9pm; Foreplay, with dominance, submission and Mother’s Day — Farra N Hyte and guest, at 11pm. Sat, May 3 wrestling. Presented in association Woody’s, Sun, Crews & Tangos, 508 Church St. Black Eagle Saturday New Wave, with Northbound Leather and the May 11 DAVID HAWE No cover. crewsandtangos.com a meet-and-greet event for folks Black Eagle Kennel Klub. Spectators interested in the leather community, welcome. No dress code. 10pm. Black Eagle, 457 Church St. No 5–8pm; Short Circuit, with DJ The Her — La Perla, Submit your event listing to [email protected]. Robotic Kid spinning Italo, robot, cover. blackeagletoronto.com Fri, May 9 Deadline for the May 15 issue is Wed, May 7. nu disco, deep and tech house, OMGBLOG

24 MAY 1–14, 2014 XTRA! TORONTO’S GAY & LESBIAN NEWS A Proud Representative of the Gay Community

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APRIL–SEPT 2014 THE BEST OF GAY & LESBIAN GAY & LESBIAN TORON TO TORONTO — XTRA! ON YOUR DESK- TOP AND ON YOUR MOBILE XTRA! Get your WorldPride DEVICE! A taste of Havana event listing to us by Handcrafted wood furniture Check out the Riverdale Wed, May 28 café culture East-end art interactive institution to make it into our digital edition Exploring Kensington Ultimate Pride Guide. of Xtra Living at xtralivingtoronto.com Email us at [email protected]

MORE AT DAILYXTRA.COM XTRA! MAY 1–14, 2014 25 DEEP DISH 1 2 BY ROLYN CHAMBERS PHOTOS BY TONY FONG & ROLYN CHAMBERS

4th Anniversary Peepshow THURS, APRIL 17 @ THURS, APRIL 17 @ CODA CREWS & TANGOS At the other end of the gay Go Hard party spectrum is Peepshow SAT, APRIL 19 @ CLUB120 at Coda. We get there at about 1am and the club is ready to Some say opposites attract. I explode. Maybe even implode. say they’re the opposite. This It used to be called Tequila 3 weekend sees me running the Lounge (the birthplace of Shane gamut of the gay party scene. Percy’s Grapefruit oh-so-many At one end of the spectrum is years ago) and then the Annex Crews & Tangos, kicking off its WreckRoom. Now, with its fourth-anniversary celebrations. centre-room bar replaced by Owners Michal Ramawad and a huge dancefl oor surrounded Paras Prashad have gone all by raised seating areas, an im- out, providing serious swag bags proved sound system, and for guests, a guarded display of fl ashier lights, it’s caught jewels by LAG Concepts (“the the discerning eye offi cial jewellers of Crews”) and of Prism’s Gairy new fl owery decorations in the Brown. The main room. “We’re going to add décor, too, has more and more decorations been taken up every week as we get closer to a notch, with the WorldPride,” Prashad says. It’s addition of red Fly standing room only on the main Nightclub-esque mirror fl oor as almost every queen in balls and an impressive red, 4 the city makes an appearance black and white, mod-style wall onstage. New queens Naomi mural. Yes, that’s an eight-foot Campbellsoup (who wins third 5 7 image of Brown’s beaming face place in the Miss Crews Pageant overseeing the dancefl oor. This a few days later) and Ala Mode is his house. I always fi nd the prove their worth alongside crowds at these one-off events veterans Vitality Black, Day- slightly off . It’s just a bit crazier, tona Bitch and the outgoing just a bit more intense, just a Miss Crews, Ivory Towers. Even bit more sexually charged than though there have been grum- a night in your everyday club. blings by some ladies about their Perhaps it’s the grinding beats of management style, the owners DJ Francesco Pagano. Perhaps have smartly used the club and it’s the show by Gia (whose taste- their infl uence to get many of fully small titties tantalize) and the regular performers bookings her two beefy, sweat-drenched at private parties and corporate dancers that has the crowd mes- events outside the gay bar scene. merized. We’re not sure exactly Crews has, in a sense, become a what we’re seeing, but it’s good one-stop gay extravaganza. Also enough to keep us watching and celebrating a fourth anniversary waiting. Perhaps it’s the fact that is DJ Blackcat’s Go Hard party these parties always happen on 6 at Club120. We’re there early, long weekends. People seem before the strippers and the to indulge just a little bit more crowds, but that doesn’t stop us 10 when they have that extra day from enjoying some dancehall to recuperate. And repent. It is in this (we hope) soon-to-be-full Easter weekend, after all. dance hall. It is a long weekend, after all. 7E Chris, Jeff & Min 8E Tatiana & Sergai 9E Steve, Steve & Dean 1E Peter, Bhav, Tish, Lane & 10E Gia and her dancers Khaled 2E Brad & Naomi Camp- bellsoup 3E Jada Hudson & Sapphire Titti Reign 4EShishmita 5E André & Tyler 6E Jarred & Deep Dish appears in Xtra Brandi every other issue of . For this week’s Xposed column, by Anna Pournikova, visit dailyxtra.com. 8 9

26 MAY 1–14, 2014 XTRA! TORONTO’S GAY & LESBIAN NEWS Pet Stores & Renovations & E xtralivingtoronto.com Supplies Restorations Helmutt’s Bryant Pet Supply Renovations 416-504-1265 416-260-0818 Pharmacies Newbright Pace Pharmacy Construction and Compounding 416-985-8639 Experts Restaurants 416-515-7223 & Cafés THE BEST OF GAY & LESBIAN TORONTO The Village C’est What? Pharmacy Brew/Vin Pub 416-967-9221 Restaurant Accommodations Massage – David Moulton, Bryant Psychotherapy 416-867-9499 Holiday Inn MEd Canadian Renovations Certified/ Registered Bruce M Cora Breakfast Toronto Certifi ed 416-260-0818 & Lunch Downtown Counsellor gesund Small, MSc G J MacRae Psychotherapist 27 Carlton St holidayinn.com/ davidmoulton.ca 416-913-5170 Foundation - - 416-340-1350 torontocentre 416 598 4888 David W Repair Service Japanese 277 Wellington St W Ms Hema Routledge – Since 1975 Male RMT Nick Mulé, 416-598-2672 PhD, RSW Murdock, CA (MSW, RSW) 905-824-2557 416-804-9248 Psychotherapist Hair of the Dog - - Psychotherapist 416 696 6653 Newbright The Power 416-964-2708 416-944-1291 416-926-9135 Construction of Touch Susan Calverley Publications Lola’s Kitchen MBA, MSc, CMA Phillip Coupal 416-985-8639 647-330- Counselling Pink Triangle lolaskitchen.ca 416-605-1553 Insurance ALEX(2539) 416-557-7312 Press The 8th Advertising Kenton Waterman Meats & Dental Services Delicatessens 416-925-6665 Deadly Sin Raymond Helkio – Investors Group 416-960-3473 Advertising Adelaide Dental Financial Services St Jamestown Xtra + Design 416-429-0150 416-860-1668 Steak & Chops 416-925-6665 The Blake House 416-925-7665 416-975-1867 raymondhelkio.com Broadview Investment Radio Stations Automotive Dental Clinic Services Mortgages Proud FM The Churchmouse & Firkin Sales & Leasing 416-466-6400 Kenton Waterman Investors 416-213-1035 416-927-1735 Ken Shaw Lexus Dr Kevin Russelo – Investors Group Group Financial Real Estate 416-776-0055 & Associates Financial Services Services – Kenton Sex Shops 416-860-1668 Waterman Nicholas Bohr Bars & Clubs 416-966-0117 – RE/MAX Bed Time Toys Juice Bars 416-860-1668 Fly Nightclub Galleria Dental, Hallmark Realty bedtimetoys.ca Dr Iudita Costache Juice Box Linda Rudolph Ltd, Brokerage 416-410-5426 at The Mortgage Condom Shack 416-534-9991 416-924-4671 416-465-7850 Butchers Centre 416-596-7515 Dog & Cat Lawyers 416-282-1677 Philip Kocev Spa Services St Jamestown Grooming – Sales Steak & Chops Harvey L Hamburg Moving & Representative Dermatology Tailspin Dog Spa 416-925-7665 416-968-9054 Storage 416-364-2036 Center on Bloor 416-920-7387 dermonbloor.com Cheese Shops Ivan Steele Agility Moving RE/MAX Fashion Law Offi ce & Storage Ltd Leslieville Baywatch Ltd, Tax Services - - Cheese Market Take a Walk on 647-342-0568 416 654 5029 Brokerage CJH Tax Services TM 416-465-7143 the Wildside Law Offi ce of Naturopathy 705-756-7629 647-270-8057 416-921-6112 Chiropractors El-Farouk Khaki gesund Theresa Telecomm- Florists 416-925-7227 - - Forget, Sales gesund 416 913 5170 unications Astra Florists Paul T Willis Representative 416-913-5170 Painting RE/MAX First Acanac astrafl orists.com – Barrister 416-849-8530 Churches & Solicitor, Newbright Realty, Brokerage Foundation Painting 905-686-3800 Metropolitan Notary Public Theatre Repairs - - Community 416-926-9806 416 985 8639 Real Estate Buddies in Bad Basement Church of Toronto Robert G Coates Personal Care Agents Times Theatre 416-406-6228 Waterproofi ng 416-975-8555 G J MacRae 416-925-6490 Dermatology Nicholas Banks Coffee Shops on Bloor iPro Realty Foundation Repair Timothy E Leahy Veterinarians 877-306-4776 Fuel Plus 905-824-2557 – Forefront dermonbloor.com Blue Cross 647-352-8807 G J MacRae Migration Ltd Personal Gaelen Patrick Animal Hospital Foundation 416-226-9889 Trainers – Sutton 416-469-1121 Community Group Realty Repair Service Evolution Fitness Groups & Legal Services Systems Inc Waterproofing Services – Since 1975 - - Craig Penney, 416 220 7883 - - Waterproof 905-824-2557 416 801 9265 City of Toronto, Toronto Criminal Pet Care Masters Economic Gardening Defence Lawyer Roy Runions, Sales Tailspin Dog Spa Representative waterproofmasters.com Development Davenport 416-410-2266 Division 416-920-7387 RE/MAX Websites Garden Centre Lighting Hallmark Realty dailyxtra.com toronto.ca/business 416-929-7222 Ltd, Brokerage Computer Sales Living Lighting 416-925-6665 Graphic Design on King royrunions.com & Service Squirt.org Mixtape Strategy 416-364-9099 Contemporary squirt.org Computers mixtapestrategy.com ccomp.ca Health & Fitness Concierges Evolution Fitness 416-220-7883 THE BEST OF GAY & As You Wish

Concierge Health Foods THE BEST OF GAY & LESBIAN 647-208-2884 & Nutrition LESBIAN TORONTO — 2014 APRIL–SEPT TORONTO Construction The Big Carrot 416-466-2129 Newbright ON YOUR DESKTOP Construction Home 416-985-8639 Improvement AND ON YOUR & Repairs Counselling Basement CareerCycles.com MOBILE DEVICE! Waterproofi ng Career Counselling G J MacRae Check out the interactive 416-465-9222 Foundation Repair A taste - - of Havana Change4U2 905 824 2557 digital edition of Xtra Living at Handcrafted wood furniture 416-827-7578 xtralivingtoronto.com Riverdale café culture East-end art institution

MORE AT DAILYXTRA.COM XTRA! MAY 1–14, 2014 27 A world of gay adventure Travel Happy Campers Whether your camping style includes a few tent pegs and a relatively flat patch of ground or a tricked-out RV with more glitz and glitter than Liberace’s living quarters, you’ll find a bevy of LGBT-friendly places to park within striking distance of Toronto. AEFA MULHOLLAND

Stella’s Getaway Burleigh Falls, Ontario stellasgetaway.com WHERE: A three-minute walk from Burleigh Falls, on the shores of island-dotted Stony Lake, a 40-kilometre-long body of water known as the “Jewel of the Cedars Campground Kawarthas.” The restaurants, stores and LCBO of Lakefield are a short drive away. Hayesland, Ontario WHO: Women-only. cedarscampground.com WHAT: A lakeside campground with tent sites, cabins, a 27-foot trailer and one converted WHERE: Just west of Millgrove, 20 minutes north of Hamilton. van. Some cabins have dishwashers; all have barbecues. Campsites have fire pits. Guests WHO: LGBT. can use the resort’s canoes and kayaks. Stella’s Café has burgers, wings, cedar-plank WHAT: Celebrating its 30th birthday this summer, Cedars offers cabins and tent and RV sites, plus a baseball diamond, salmon, and salads and sandwiches, and there’s a fine-foods store on-site. Activities sand volleyball court and tennis court set on 130 partially wooded acres atop the Niagara Escarpment. Un-serviced include swimming, fishing, boating and canoeing, plus hiking in Petroglyphs Provincial sites can avail of a water and battery charging station. The Cedars has a licensed nightclub, licensed pool bar and fully Park. Nearby, water crashes over the pink granite of Burleigh Falls from Lovesick Lake. licensed restaurant on-site. A pool, tuck shop and clubhouse (with library and board games) round out the offerings. WHEN: May 2–Oct 13. WHEN: May 2–Oct 24. HOW MUCH: Sites from $40. Van accommodation from $55. Cabins from $125. HOW MUCH: Day passes from $10. Sites from $16.50 per person.

28 MAY 1–14, 2014 XTRA! TORONTO’S GAY & LESBIAN NEWS Hillside Campgrounds New Milford, Pennsylvania Plein Bois hillsidecampgrounds.com WHERE: Close to the town of Gibson Sainte-Marthe, Quebec in northeastern Pennsylvania, campingpleinbois.com just south of the Finger Lakes, WHERE: Near Rigaud, 5.5 hours by car from Toronto. Quebec, less than an hour’s drive from WHO: Men-only. downtown Montreal and WHAT: 235 acres in the mountains of an hour and a half from Pennsylvania with trails and a shady Ottawa, near the banks of creek. Sites range from central and so- the Ottawa River. There’s cially situated to remote. A café takes a shuttle bus to the camp care of all meals you can’t be both- for those who don’t drive. ered to cook. Social offerings include volleyball contests, BYOB cocktail WHO: Men-only. events, art walks and weekend parties WHAT: 60 wooded acres where the tunes swing from country with 414 sites, two pools and western in the early hours to club and a choice of bars sounds as the night progresses. Party and terraces. Chez Leo themes include Heroes and Villains, provides breakfast, lunch Uniform, and Fantasy and Fetish. and dinner, including grills and a substantial WHEN: May 2–Sept 28. fisherman’s platter. HOW MUCH: Day passes from CAMP APPEAL This season’s calendar $5. Sites from $20 per person includes karaoke, happy per night. Cabins from $60. Upstate New York’s Jones Pond hours, theme weekends, concerts, a garage sale, offers a rural retreat for men workshops and movies. Rainbow With 117 seasonal sites, 192 permanent enjoy the pool scene and the dances to WHEN: April 19–Sept 21. Ridge Resort seasonal spots, a slew of cabins and a people from the local area, places like HOW MUCH: Day passes season that stretches all the way from Buffalo and Rochester, who come in from $10.25. Tent sites Grand Valley, Ontario rainbowridgeresort.ca April to October, Jones Pond makes an and use the park for the day. We prob- from $28.25. Trailer ideal escape across the border. Set in ably have an 80/20 split between US rentals from $41. WHERE: On the Grand River, an hour’s the gentle hills of the Genesee Valley guests and Canadians, but we’re seeing drive north of downtown Toronto, close to Caledon and Orangeville. of Upstate New York, the men-only more and more making the trip across campground boasts 120 acres with the border. After all, we’re really only WHO: LGBT, plus pets. hiking trails, a three-acre pond, huge 90 minutes from the Peace Bridge.” WHAT: 72 acres of hiking trails and in-ground swimming pool, a busy café The summer social calendar fully serviced sites, with picnic tables and volleyball courts. There’s also features weekend dances at the and fire pits, on the Grand River. a huge events barn, camp store and 2000-square-foot events barn. One of Field and pool volleyball, badminton, lounge with TV, library, fireplace and the busiest weeks is the one running horseshoes, cricket, Saturday night piano. Recognized as the “nicest park up to the Fourth of July, when there dances, a clothing-optional area and three games rooms with ping-pong, in New York State,” Jones Pond is are daily events scheduled, including pool, foosball, weights and a TV. known for having exceptionally well- Schaefer and McCormick’s Bloody maintained grounds and facilities. Caesar Canada Day party. Other dates WHEN: May–October. As the campground’s 24th season to mark in your camping calendar are HOW MUCH: Day passes from $8. Sites kicks off, we tracked down the Canadi- those of the park’s five block parties from $16. Bunk rooms from $65. an couple that owns and operates the (Jones Pond is divided into five neigh- pet-friendly park. Bryan Schaefer and bourhood “blocks”). Each party is or- Matthew McCormick bought Jones ganized by campers in those areas, and Pond in 2012. “We had been camping this year’s themes include Mardi Gras The Point Tent here for about 15 years,” Schaefer says, and Western. All five events feature and Trailer Resort “and it had always been a place we free barbecues and drinks. “It’s just Vittoria, Ontario loved going: 120 acres filled with the amazing,” Schaefer says, “how people get-tothepoint.com most amazing people we’ve ever spent grab on and throw themselves into WHERE: Near Turkey Point Park on time with. We were both working in putting on these parties.” Riverside the Lake Erie shore, a 15-minute downtown Toronto and were tired of Whether you check into a log cabin, drive from Port Dover. the 12-hour days and the rat race. We bunkhouse or guesthouse, pack your Tweed, Ontario needed to find something we loved to tent or haul your RV rig, there’s a riversidervcampground.com WHO: Men-only. WHAT: Tent and fully serviced trailer do. As fate would have it, the previous site, a warm welcome and a summer WHERE: A 2.5 hour drive from Toronto, just north of owners decided to sell the park. When home away from home waiting at Prince Edward County and outside Tweed. and RV sites, surrounded by Caro- lingian forest, with an abundance they announced it, Matt turned to me Jones Pond. WHO: Men-only. of trails. Other draws include biking, and said, ‘Let’s buy this!’” Knowing WHAT: A campground and RV park on 96 wooded acres in swimming and a slew of summer mix- nothing about running a park, Schae- Jones Pond eastern Ontario’s Land O’ Lakes region. Opened in 2011, Riverside ers, cabanas, a saltwater swimming fer and McCormick did their research, Angelica, New York basks on the banks of the Skootamatta River and offers 110 pool, sun decks and a general store. worked out the finances, sold their jonespond.com serviced and unserviced sites, all with picnic tables and fire The Point is particularly popular with home in Toronto and bought Jones WHERE: 120 kilometres southeast of rings, a cottage, trailer, clothing-optional pool and camping area, bears and leathermen, and the events Pond in October 2012. Buffalo, a 3.5 hour drive from Toronto. baseball diamond and volleyball field. Weekend themes range calendar caters to that, with events There is no “typical camper,” Schae- WHO: Men-only. from Boots and Boxers to Drag Divas to Riverside Olympics. such as BearForce and Lumbearjack. fer says. “We get everyone from the WHEN: April 25–Oct 1. WHEN: May 2–Sept 28. WHEN: May 16–Oct 13. young 20s crowd who come in for long HOW MUCH: Day passes from $10. Tent HOW MUCH: Day pass from $10. Sites from $18. HOW MUCH: Day pass from $10. weekends or block party weekends to sites from $10. Trailer sites from $38. Trailer from $65. Cottage from $85. Sites from $18. Cabins from $56. the mid-40s crowd who have sites and

MORE AT DAILYXTRA.COM XTRA! MAY 1–14, 2014 29 A world of gay adventure Travel Pride in Mexico City A non-corporate mix of politics, partying and anarchic celebration

KEPH SENETT than the offi cial page (marchagay.mx). If you’re looking for the bear scene, you For such a major metropolis, Mexico have your own portal at bearmex.com. City is often overlooked during Pride Although there are parties and events season, but this capital is not only big leading up to and after the parade, the and bustling — it’s also actively welcom- main attraction happens on Pride Sat- ing to LGBT people. The city’s very fi rst urday under the banner Marcha del Pride march took place in 1979, and 30 Orgullo y Dignidad LGBTTTI (Pride years later the Legislative Assembly le- and Dignity March). You’re probably galized same-sex marriage. And, to make familiar with the many variations on things easier for out-of-towners to visit, LGBT; in Mexico City, the letters refer the Mexico City tourism board recently to lésbico, gay, bisexual, transexual, commissioned an LGBT guide, down- travesti, transgénero and intersexual. loadable as a PDF from its website (see Don’t get too hung up on the semantics On the Web sidebar box for URL). So if — this is an inclusive celebration, and you’re considering a trip to Mexico City everyone is welcome. (also referred to as “el DF,” for Distrito La Marcha begins at noon(ish), with Federal), consider a pilgrimage for Pride. people gathering at the base of El Ángel The very fi rst thing you’ll notice in de la Independencia, the city’s most planning your Pride week is that the famous monument and the symbol of communications — posters, websites the Mexico City. If your experience of and guides — are not nearly as coordi- Pride is limited to recent years in the big nated as you’re probably used to, and cities (like New York, San Francisco or your planning will be further com- Toronto), one of the fi rst things you’ll plicated by the fact that everything is likely notice is that, despite its size in Spanish. Take a deep breath. De- (2013 drew approximately 100,000 spite being a city of nearly nine million participants), this is a grassroots event. people (that number jumps to more With very few exceptions — the city than 24 million if you account for the distributed tens of thousands of free, KEPH SENETT greater metropolitan area), el DF is, in branded condoms, for example — there Above, Pride revellers celebrate outside Palacio de Bellas Artes. Left, some ways, still emerging. The sooner is little or no corporate presence. And a float with an Aztec eagle warrior you sync up with the city, the better that’s a great thing. Everything from the theme. time you’ll have. handmade signs to the music to the vibe There are two main ways to fi nd out feels genuine. what’s happening: track down a Pride Once the parade gets underway, it guide or simply ask someone. Trust me: moves down Paseo de la Reforma to- NIGHTLIFE the latter is much more fun, but if you’re ward the Zócalo, Mexico City’s main Lipstick/Kinky Bar too shy, get yourself into the Zona Rosa public plaza and the second largest in Amberes 1 to check out lesbian bookstore Voces the world (Moscow’s Red Square is big- Living en Tinta or Erotika Love Store and ask ger). The procession itself is a fabulous Avenida Bucareli No 144 for a guide (guía, in Spanish). On the mix of politics, partying and anarchic living.com.mx web, your best bet is to locate groups celebration, with the music, costumes, and events pages on Facebook, which pageantry and placards we’ve all come Cabaretito Londres 161 (Neon/VIP) often are updated with more frequency to expect. Londres 77 (Fusion) Several other events are scheduled cabaretito.com for the weeks prior to and directly after ON THE WEB La Marcha. Consider planning your Marrakech Salon República de Cuba 18 LGBT guide travel around the Festival Lésbico In- (downloadable PDF) ternacional de la Ciudad de México (the El Viena mexicocity.gob.mx/lgbt/guias.php international lesbian festival of Mexico República de Cuba 2-E International Lesbian Festival City), the Festival Internacional por la La Perla mexicocity.gob.mx/lgbt/agenda.php Diversidad Sexual (the international República de Cuba 44 International Sexual sexual diversity festival) or the Festival So Do Me Bathhouse Diversity Festival de Diversidad Sexual en Cine y Video Mariano Escobedo No 716 chopo.unam.mx (the sexual diversity fi lm festival). sodome.com.mx THELMA DATTER 30 MAY 1–14, 2014 XTRA! TORONTO’S GAY & LESBIAN NEWS RON HYDE

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Away from the crowded beach, the log booms on Trail 7 at Wreck Beach. BART BRAUN HOT TIMES IN SUMMER!

ALL-MALE GAY CAMPING  90 MINS FROM PEACE BRIDGE Cabins • RV Sites • Tent Sites Bunkhouse • Guest House •Canadian money accepted at par • 100% BYOB park •Free dances and themed events •New modern shower house 10Great nude •Full-Service Cafe on Site •May 16-19: Victoria Day Weekend, beaches Sunday night FREE in Canada w/Fri & Sat stay Camper 1. Blooming Point Josh Northwestern PEI 2. Chilliwack Lake For event details, reservations, maps & more, visit: Near Chilliwack, BC JonesPond.com 3. Crystal Crescent Beach 585-567-8100 Near Halifax 4. Hanlan’s Point Toronto 5. Kelly’s Beach Puerto Vallarta is a leading culinary destination in Mexico. VISITPUERTOVALLARTA.COM Kouchibouguac National Park, NB 6. Lac des Toutes Nues Restaurant Week in PVR Northwest of Montreal One of Mexico’s longest-running rated luxury restaurants. 7. Oka Park culinary events, Puerto Vallarta In the gay-friendly Romantic Zone, West of Montreal Restaurant Week, will celebrate its not far from the gay beach, are Archie’s 8. Paradise Beach 10th anniversary in May. Wok, Daiquiri Dick’s, Taste and Kaiser Near Saskatoon During the annual festival, which this Maximilian. From there, an easy stroll 9. Patricia Beach year runs May 15 to 31, Puerto Vallarta’s will take you to the Centro Historico, Near Winnipeg most prestigious restaurants showcase where you’ll find Café des Artistes, innovative three-course menus. Three Barcelona Tapas and El Arrayán. 10. Wreck Beach options are available for each course, Vegetarian or vegan interpretations Vancouver and prices range from $15 to $25 of Mexican dishes can be found at — Bruce Bishop before alcohol and tip. River Café, Que Pasa and El Patio de A leading culinary destination in Mi Casa, to name a few. ON THE WEB Mexico, Puerto Vallarta offers a range For more information on nude beaches of gastronomical adventures, from ON THE WEB and naturism, visit the Federation of street food carts offering tacos and For a complete list of businesses Canadian Naturists at fcn.ca. ceviche that have been operated by the participating in Restaurant Week, visit same families for generations to top- virtualvallarta.com.

MORE AT DAILYXTRA.COM XTRA! MAY 1–14, 2014 31 ADVANCE BOOKING DEADLINE: TUES, MAY 6 @ 1PM To place an ad, call 416-925-6665 x0 or book your line classifi ed at Classifieds classifi [email protected]

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GARETH HUGHES HOME, CONDO & OFFICE NEW THOUGHT THERAPY CLEANERS Personalized Eff ective NO MESS, NO FUSS, JUST SUPERIOR WORKMANSHIP PROUD LIFE MATTHEWS call Tomas - 416.878.9527 Conversations. Newbright Painting Fifteen years Gareth! email: [email protected] Depression, Anxiety, Gender, It with a deep heartfelt sadness that we I love you more than FULLY BONDED AND INSURED Sexuality, Life/Executive Commercial/Residential, Interior/Exterior Painting l Design & colour consultation inform you that Peter Donaldson passed ever. visit: www.ecoscleaning.com Coaching away April 8th, 2014. Peter the painter, artist, Th om Todd Kaufman, MDiv Light Reno’s and Repairs l Window Cleaning l Better Business Bureau DJ, and social butterfly touched many lives. Celebrating 13 years in Xtra References provided on request Fully insured He will be greatly missed by his four sisters 647-230-2068 l l and 2 brothers, nieces, and nephews. His Genesissquared.com. See our Sean 416.985.8639 [email protected] dearest friends Glen, Ray, Billy, Cynthia, Chris, PLEASE RECYCLE THIS PAPER! BE BOLD! ad in this issue of Xtra Stan, Jim, Bobby, and Mario are feeling a Bold your line classifi ed. profound loss as are all of his people that he has touched and shared beautiful times with. LEGAL SERVICES MOVERS Throughout his struggles with his sickness, REAL ESTATE SQUEAKY CLEAN XTRA Peter held his head high, he was always so Domestic Cleaning Services. OFFERS courageous, and for those of us who knew REAL ESTATE AGENT Your Neighbourhood Cleaner him, we accepted his moments of stub- (prices and estimates available FREQUENCY ARRESTED? bornness with a smile. He enjoyed life to the fullest right up to his on request). last moments. Please join us for a celebration of his life May 17th Craig Head Specializing in DISCOUNTS. CHARGED? Call Mark: 416-924-1951 (Res.) at 17h17 (5:17pm) for a special bingo, following 6pm dinner and Condos Bosley Real Estate 416-347-3951 (Cell) Contact us celebrations. Family, friends and all who would like to share are Ltd., Brokerage e-mail: [email protected] to learn more! AGGRESSIVE welcome at FLASH, 463 Church Street. www.craighead.ca mark-copeland.com CRIMINAL DEFENCE NOTICES COUNSELLING 416.410.2266 CraigPenney.com

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32 MAY 1–14, 2014 XTRA! TORONTO’S GAY & LESBIAN NEWS DRASKO XTRA HOT BOGDANOVIC Checking in with Jeremy: Final week

BODY BREAK JEREMY WILLARD

Dearest Gym, Now that our time is done, I fi nd myself refl ecting on our af- fair. When we fi rst met, 16 weeks ago, I marvelled at the smallness of you. You were youthful and clean, which is always a plus, but when I poked my head in for the fi rst time, I doubted I’d ever be able to fi t my considerable girth inside you. But I gathered myself up and eased into you using only an adventurous attitude as lubricant. During the months we spent to- gether, you taught me much. First, the key to just about any activity is to stick out my ass. It’s something to do with preventing injury to my lower back, I think. As hard as it may be to believe, I used to spend a lot of time holding my ass in, but you told me to spread my legs, stick my butt out and just do it. And I did it. And it hurt, but only at fi rst. From top to bottom, you started to change me. You taught me that if we were going to get sweaty together, I would need a lot more energy, and that meant eat- ing better. I started spending nearly Jeremy used to spend a lot of time holding his ass in, but the gym taught him to spread his legs, stick his butt out and just do it. EVOLUTION FITNESS twice as much on groceries, stocking up on vegetables, fruit, Greek yogurt with muscle. People saw us together, was your pet name for me, but going and meat, and preparing food in laughed, and commented on our prog- forward, I think I’d rather be known advance, fi lling containers with rice ress. I couldn’t help bragging a little. as celery, carrot or a more fl attering NAME: TY AUSTIN dishes, chopped vegetables and boiled There was a period where I resented type of squash. It’ll be easier that way. AGE: 26 SIGN: LIBRA eggs. I gorged myself to please you. what you demanded of me and didn’t I doubt you’d mind, and while you My mouth was stuff ed with meat from want to leave the house to go see you, won’t be around to see it, I know you morning to night. but we got through it. Now as we say wish me well and hope that I’ll con- As the weeks passed, our relation- our last farewells, as we knew we’d tinue to improve and be happy, even Ty moved from Calgary to Toronto 17 years ago “for its fast-paced lifestyle ship became one of give and take; eventually have to, I know I’ll remem- in your absence. and the freedom to be who you are.” He enjoys whiskey on the rocks with I gave my time and energy, and you ber you fondly. Yours always, a cigar, loves to talk about tattoos and low-brow sailor art, and considers replaced my fat (20 pounds of it) You used to call me your “pear.” It Jeremy classic Disney movies his guilty pleasure. “Your gender is between your ears, not what’s between your legs,” he says. “Live and love with an open mind and heart, and remember: trans boys can always go and buy bigger!” Facebook: Ty Austin (Short Stop), Instagram: Tattooedty, Xtra brings you a chance to win a Tumbler/Twitter: Tattoosbyty pair of tickets to Sheila Cavanagh’s To comment on or become an Xtra Hot guy or gal, email Drasko at [email protected]. Queer Bathroom Stories at Keep things hot while the temperature drops. Bring a little Stag Shop home. Buddies in Bad Times Theatre, Saturday, May 31 at 8pm.

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