Gaycalgary and Edmonton Magazine #66, April 2009 Table of Contents Table of Contents 5 the Community Dog Fight Publisher

April 2009 ISSUE 66 The Only Magazine Dedicated to Alberta’s GLBT+ Community FREE

Absolutely Flawless Coronation 33

GayCalgary a t t h e Junos In depth interviews: RuPaul Lady Gaga Dallas Green

Community Directory • Map and Events • Tourism Info >> Starting on Page 17

GLBT Resource • Calgary • Edmonton • Alberta www.gaycalgary.com GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine #66, April 2009 Table of Contents Table of Contents 5 The Community Dog Fight Publisher:...... Steve Polyak Editor:...... Rob Diaz-Marino Publisher’s Column Graphic Design:...... Rob Diaz-Marino Sales:...... Steve Polyak 8 Going Gaga The bisexual bombshell vows to never walk out on us. But those breasts? Writers and Contributors They’ve got a mind of their own. Mercedes Allen, Chris Azzopardi, Camper British, Dave Brousseau, AIDS Calgary, Jason Clevett, Andrew Collins, James S.M. 10 In Depth with RuPaul Demers, Rob Diaz-Marino, Jack Fertig, Champion Drag Icon on New Album and Race for Next Drag Superstar Glen Hanson, Benjamin Hawkcliffe, Joan

Hilty, Evan Kayne, Stephen Lock, Allan 8 PAGE Neuwirth, Felice Newman, Steve Polyak, 13 Chelsea Boys Mark Randall, Romeo San Vicente, Spencer Tyler, Jerome Voltero, D’Anne Witkowski, 14 out of Town and the GLBT Community of Calgary, Madison, Wisconsin Edmonton, and Alberta.

Photography 17 Directory and Events Steve Polyak, Rob Diaz-Marino, and contributors Karen Hofmann, BTJ 23 A Conflict of Rights McDonald. How Much Say Should Parents Have In School Curriculum Videography Steve Polyak, Rob Diaz-Marino 24 Creep of the Week Pope Benedict XVI Printers North Hill News/Central Web

25 Q Scopes 10 PAGE Distribution “Embrace competition, Sagittarius!” Calgary:...... Gallant Distribution ...... GayCalgary Staff 26 Adult Film Review Edmonton:...... Clark’s Distribution Funhouse, Muscle Mountain Other:...... Canada Post

Legal Council 27 Pride Calgary 2009 Courtney Aarbo, Barristers and Solicitors The Year So Far

Sales & General Inquiries GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine 28 Deep Inside Hollywood #403, 215 14th Avenue SW Heathers Calgary, AB, Canada T2R 0M2 Office Hours:...... By appointment ONLY 29 Cocktail Chatter Phone:...... (403) 543-6960 A Drink By Any Other Name and Making Your Own Mixers Toll Free:...... 1-888-543-6960 43 PAGE Fax:...... (403) 703-0685 30 A Different Way of Giving E-Mail:...... [email protected] Twisted Element and AIDS Calgary Forge a Unique Giving Opportunity This Month's Cover RuPaul, taken by Mathu Andersen. 31 Fear, Stigma and Discrimination replaced with Hope 2009 Alberta Positive Voices Conference Huge Success! 32 Letters to the Editor Continued on Next Page  34 Why should YOU volunteer? 35 A Couple of Guys www.gaycalgary.com 46 PAGE Continued on Next Page  GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine #66, April 2009 Table of Contents

 Continued From Previous Page Proud members of: 36 Bitter Girl 37 Alberta Government Gives to SHARP Plans for Independence House Announced 38 Running for Royalty ISCCA Candidates for 33rd Reign 40 A History of Gender Variance in Expression and Identity Part 3: Into the Modern Age (1700s - 1932) PAGE 52 PAGE 43 Fundraising Photos 45 Telling it Like It Is The Calgary International Spoken Word Festival 2009  Continued from Previous Page

46 Cappuccino Theatre Magazine Blood Brothers Print Circulation:...... ~10,000 copies Pickup Density:...... ~3 readers/copy Online Circulation:...... ~60,000 readers 46 I Love You, Man Total Readership:...... ~90,000 readers Bro-mantic comedy a keeper Frequency:...... Every Month 47 The Erotic Anguish of Don Juan Proof of monthly figures can be requested. ATP and The Old Trout Explore Love Through Puppets Distribution Locations PAGE 53 PAGE Alberta:...... ~300 Drop-off Points 48 Classified Ads Please call us if your establishment would like to become a distribution point.

50 Projecting Towards Pride and History Originally established in January 1992 as Celluloid Men for Men BBS by MFM Communications. Sneek a’ Peek at The FairyTales International Queer Diversity Film Festival XI Name changed to GayCalgary.com in 1998. Independent company as of January 2004. 52 Polaroids First edition of GayCalgary.com Magazine published November 2003. Name adjusted Art Gallery of Alberta Debuts Major Canadian Artist in November 2006 to GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine. 53 Absolutely Flawless: Coronation 33 ISCCA Soon To Crown New Royalty Disclaimer and Copyright Opinions expressed in this magazine

PAGE 58 PAGE are specific to the author, and do not 54 Dallas Green necessarily reflect those of GayCalgary staff May 2009 Catching Up with Juno Award Winner and contributors. Those involved in the making of this Print Deadlines 56 GayCalgary at the Junos publication, whether advertisers, Vancouver Rocks with Canadian Music contributors, or the subjects of articles Ad Booking or photographs, are not necessarily gay, Wednesday, April 29th, 2009 lesbian, bisexual, or trans. GayCalgary 58 Queer Eye - Community Events also includes straight allies and those who Ad Submission are gay friendly. Friday, May 1st, 2009 No part of this publication may be reprinted or modified without the In Circulation expressed written permission of the editor Tuesday, May 5th, 2009 or publisher. Please contact us immediately if you think Copyright 2009. All rights reserved. you may have missed the booking or GayCalgary is a registered trademark. submission deadline.

GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine #66, April 2009 Editorial The Community Dog Fight Publisher’s Column

for this month, and shaking our heads at the pure lunacy of it all. By Rob Diaz-Marino, MSc. It shows who are the “wild animals” in the community, making up stories to scare themselves into a frenzy for a fight that never Come one, come all! Step right up and place your existed in the first place. What a waste of energy for nothing. bets – which organization will be the winner in an all Reader Survey 2009 out community brawl over absolutely nothing? Grab The results are in, and here are a few statistics that we found a stick and start poking our contestants through interesting, that we wanted to share with you. their cages. One they’re angry enough, we’ll let them There has been some degree of contention over the words out and watch them tear one another to shreds, we use to describe ourselves, especially surrounding the word from safe and comfortable seats on the sidelines! If “Queer”. We found that although 28% of respondents fall into the they don’t finish one another off, then grab a hand- category of “youth”, only 5% of respondents used the word “Queer” ful of rocks and start throwing till they’re dead! It’s to describe themselves. Maybe it’s not a youth thing after all – just an individual choice. fun for everyone, and by far one of this city’s favourite pastimes! We asked about how our readers find out about upcoming community events – participants were permitted to select all that Seriously, at times living in the GLBT community can feel like applied so don’t look at it funny – they don’t add up to 100. Of being a dog in a fighting ring. All you want to do is live and let our pool of respondents, 73% found out from ads in GayCalgary live, but those with a sadistic flare are constantly putting you into and Edmonton Magazine, versus only 25% who found out from situations where you feel like your “life” is in danger – just to see other publications. Roughly half of people found out about events what will happen. The other dogs aren’t necessarily your enemies, through our magazine directory and events listing (51%), our they just wanted to live in peace like you. But when you’re hurt online events calendar (47%), sites like Facebook (54%), and word and confused, and so are they, all you know is that if you don’t of mouth (56%). Surprisingly only 35% said they found out about strike first, you might not be the one to walk away alive. Mean- events from event posters, and 24% from group/venue websites. while your real enemies watch comfortably from out of harm’s way, cheering you on, placing their bets and having a good time at your I’ve received some flak in the past from isolated individuals for expense. If you lay down and take it, you are booed out of the not writing a “conventional” publisher’s column every month. I’m ring, and your “keepers” might try working on new and nasty ways happy to say that the survey showed it is one of the most read, to provoke you into giving a better fight the next time. If you’re and in fact, one of people’s favourite articles. Hopefully this still of no use to them, they may let you go...or they may finish you means I’m doing something right, even if untraditional. Of course, off themselves. I can’t compete with our community photography features! Here’s the thing. If you let initial reactions, snap judgments, Gay community loyalty is still alive and well – 89% of respon- and pure instinct guide the decisions in your life, you become dents said that they are more likely to spend money with GLBT nothing better than a wild animal. The longer you live like this, businesses, or businesses who advertise in GLBT publications. the more difficult it is for you to go back to living normally again. However, people are still shy – only around half would actually tell Being trained to “bite” first and ask questions later might give you businesses that they saw their ad in a GLBT publication. the advantage in a fight, but when you try to integrate into general Our survey sample showed surprising financial resilience within society, even normally peaceful people will try to confine you or the GLBT community, in the face of the current economic situa- chase you away; all it takes is the fear that you might get out of tion. Only 32% said that they are less willing to travel, while 42% control. Those people may succeed, but in the process they often said they were less willing to spend money in general. become the next wild animal on the rampage. With our addition of RSS feeds, we’re pleased to see that 22% of The situation is a complicated, downward spiral that continues respondents access the internet on their phones/blackberries, and to renew itself. One might argue that it wouldn’t keep happening it we humans weren’t all wild animals, just fooling ourselves otherwise. That may be true, but the are less destructive ways we can all use to channel our basic natures. So...why aren’t more people using them? At times like this, when we’re all worried about the economy and how it will affect us personally, it seems like when people aren’t working harder they’re just bitching harder. The community gossip has been pretty intense this month. Steve and I have been hearing little bits of it as we have been wrapping up the magazine

GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine #66, April 2009 Editorial

71% use the internet to stay up to date on news/current events. for photos. Then once Western Cup is over, the ISCCA Corona- The results showed that less than 1% don’t use the internet at all, tion happens the week after. That’s more a sport of endurance – a though our collection methods may have skewed that result. week of events, culminating at 6+ hours of drag show. They say “it ain’t a sport if it can’t kill you”...so that sounds about right! Steve Interestingly, people who go out to the gay bars aren’t shy about will be buzzing around doing photos and I’ll be perched behind a going out to straight bars from time to time; about 18% of respon- video camera, challenging my mental sharpness by keeping the dents said that they never go out to gay bars, compared to the not- view centred on the performing queens, while my back slowly too-far-off 24% that never go to straight bars. About 30% regularly seizes up. Yes, definitely something to consider for Western Cup attend community events outside of the bar scene altogether. next year...community coverage. Sadly people were hard pressed to nominate someone for their So our 32nd Emperor and Empress, Nina Tron and Michael positive impact in the community. Aside from the 64% that didn’t Wolf-Would Myte, are stepping down after a successful, and rea- answer, we received a wide range of nominees with very little sonably drama-free reign (at least from our outside perspective). overlap. So what will really determine our top 5 is the explana- We were told a few months ago that they had their hopes up of tion that people have given for their nominations. Stay tuned for beating the current record of $40,000, but more recent estimates articles to highlight these individuals, coming up in future editions put them close but not quite over. Though the official announce- of the magazine. ment won’t be made until the night of the Coronation, we would In the comments section, people mostly just had good things to like to congratulate Nina, Michael, and the upper house ahead of say about what we’re doing. I was happy to see that others gave time for efforts this past year, and for what no doubt is an impres- constructive suggestions that we can definitely work with to help sive fundraised amount. make the magazine even better, and more widely available. When the Junos came to Calgary last year, it was such a posi- March 2009 tive experience for us that we wanted to participate again this year, even though they were taking place in Vancouver. Due The 4th annual St. Patrick’s Day Irish Auction happened at the to the timing with our press schedule, Steve and I couldn’t go, Texas Lounge. This year I was happy to bid on, and win, a won- but our senior writer Jason was in attendance. Some coverage derful set of pencils and sketchpads from Mona Lisa Art supplies. appears this month, but there will be some more next month as There were so many great items to bid on, including for the first well. I know Vancouver is somewhat out of our jurisdiction as an time, a car from Calgary Fast Lane. Unfortunately I wasn’t given Alberta publication, but hey, they’re talking about music we enjoy an official total, but if my memory serves me, at the event I was here at home – so why not? told they brought in around $2500 for the SHARP Foundation. We want to hear what YOU have to say about the topics in this article, and any The Calgary Eagle hosted their Dirty Bird Awards last month. other articles in GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine. Visit our chat forums at Steve and I were honoured to reclaim our “Best Lesbian Couple” www.gaycalgary.com/forum and write your heart out! Or write us a letter to the award, which had gone to other couples (some actually women publisher by post or by E-mailing [email protected], and we may publish – how outrageous!) for the past 2 years. I blame myself for not or respond to it in the magazine! wearing enough plaid. Vadge the Bucket (trying on “le Buckét” as a classier alternative) was back in full force – this time with more cushion for the pushin’. Literally, her side profile looked like a lightning-bolt from her square boobs and ass. I learned that I also played a part in naming this monstrosity of a drag persona the first year the Dirty Birds were held – Vadge was called something similar until we published otherwise. Oops, Freudian slip, but I guess it stuck. Ken Schultz won the lifetime achievement award, the only serious one of the bunch. The day after, I accompanied the Calgary Eagle staff at the Backlot to ambush poor Kenny. He looked a bit surprised, but otherwise happy to be recognized. The Angels and Greasers fundraiser at Money Pennies was a great event to raise funds for the Laramie Project. Aside from some entertaining performances by the Fake Mustache Drag Kings, the Kabuki Guns Burlesque troupe put on a great show. I don’t usually get excited about women taking their clothes off, but the photos I got were just phenomenal. Meanwhile, another fundraiser for the Children’s Wish Founda- tion was happening at Cougars in Turner Valley. Unfortunately I couldn’t attend because of my in-town commitments, but I heard once again it was a roaring success, pardon the pun.

This Month Oi vey, I’m not sure if I’m ready for the relay race we’re going to have to run this month. I swear, Apollo should adopt community coverage as a new sport. It will take strategy, teamwork, and physical fitness to get around to the all the sporting venues

GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine #66, April 2009 GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine #66, April 2009 Celebrity Interview Going Gaga The bisexual bombshell vows to never walk out on us. But those breasts? They’ve got a mind of their own.

so much,” she says. “My commitment is to continue to play gay By Chris Azzopardi clubs no matter how big and successful the project gets. I think sometimes artists, as they begin to fill bigger and bigger venues, As if it needed to, a text to Lady Gaga told her she they forget where they came from. I’ll never do that.” had arrived. As far as her dance-grooves go, she’s She grew up in New York, where she was raised as a good Ital- cha-chinged two hit singles – the gay-loved club ian who’d sing along on her mini-plastic tape recorder to Michael jams “Just Dance” and “Poker Face,” both top-10 Jackson and Cyndi Lauper. She learned piano by ear at 4. At songs. But this message wasn’t talking about her 13 she wrote her first piano ballad. A year later came open mic nights. Gays just wanted to squeeze her, and while enrolled in tunes. This was about Lady Gaga: Trendsetter. acting and dance classes, she buddied up with many of them: “I She was overseas, where she had been for a couple of months was always surrounded by gay men and women.” before gabbing with us last week, when the text popped up on Then, at 20, she was signed to Interscope Records, writing her cell. It was from her friend (and once-collaborative partner), songs – she recently compared doing so to barebacking in Blend- New York City hard-rock DJ Lady Starlight, who spotted some- er Magazine – for the Pussycat Dolls before her almost-gold-certi- body on the subway wearing a black hoodie, tights and square fied debut, The Fame, was released last year. sunglasses. Sound familiar? Now she’s got Ellen DeGeneres dancing to her music. “I was laughing,” giggles Gaga, from her Los Angeles apartment, regarding the imitator mimicking her outrageous every- “You know she’s seen my boobs?” Gaga nonchalantly says. thing-goes style. And that’s not the first (we’re talking to you, “When I was sound checking to do the performance on her show, Christina Aguilera). “I’m not making videos and fashion state- I had on a blazer with no bra and my dancers hoisted me into a ments just for myself. It’s leading my internal desire – or exter- lift for the second verse; my boobs popped out. I was so embar- nal, rather – to change things. So I’m quite pleased.” rassed. And she was laughing.” That fuzzy feeling extends to her seemingly infinite won-over We’ve all seen bits and pieces – enough to make her chest a gays, who can’t seem to go gaga enough over the 22-year-old puzzle, pretty much. But in her just-released “LoveGame” video vixen. Just so you know, it’s mutual. “I adore the gay community – “very gay,” she calls it – she does more than show off her as- sets. She has a lezzy lip-lock. And unlike Katy Perry, it didn’t take no cherry ChapStick to get her there: “It’s not a secret,” she laughs. “I’ve kissed many girls.” To show her lesbian love, she’ll perform at gay-getaway Dinah Shores Weekend during her first 23-date headlining tour, “Fame Ball.” “It’s going to be really gay,” insists Gaga, who’s opened up for the Pussycat Dolls and New Kids on the Block. “Everything that I do is very gay. And I say that with immense pride.” Gay, and sweat-stimulating hot. And her parents are cool with it – her mom is more interested in her artistry (those shoes! that hair!) than some girl-on-girl action – much to the surprise of drama-digging journalists who ask this question as if what Gaga’s doing is sinful. For a former Catholic schoolgirl, maybe – but, hey, it worked for Madonna and Britney. “My rebellion is rooted much deeper in my heart than my Catholic school upbringing,” she says, lacing the rebuttal with a sarcastic laugh. “In another way, I don’t really look at what I’m doing as rebellion as much as it is – it’s freeing and it’s liberat- ing. It’s just me, if that makes any sense. It’s just where I feel comfortable.” Much like Sundays, when the Italian (born Stefani Joanne Germanotta) sometimes eats macaroni with her parents. Before selecting other native dishes she digs, she laughs for a few seconds, noting that her roomy and friend is laughing at her because, “She knows I’m biting my tongue to say something terribly, terribly sexual.” And then she feeds us her faves – so difficult, she says – naming fresh gravy, meatballs and sausage: “A good Italian girl loves sausage.” Bad girls, too.

Photo by Aaron Fallon, Interscope Records

GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine #66, April 2009 GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine #66, April 2009 Celebrity Interview In Depth with RuPaul Champion Drag Icon on New Album and Race for Next Drag Superstar

By Jason Clevett

To say speaking to RuPaul was a thrill for me would be an understatement. The first Drag Queen supermodel has certainly made waves throughout her career and left an impression. Many have adored her, loved her, and secretly stalked her in their head. “That is a lie!” she said, laughing when I told her I was excited to speak to her. “I don’t (really know about the adoration of fans), and I don’t know if I want to!” she laughed. “When you live inside the skin of a monster it is impossible to be objective unless you try and com- pare yourself to other people, which is always a mistake. I don’t take it for granted, it is really kind of you to say that.” The question of RuPaul’s impact on gay and straight society is one that would likely result in many different answers from different people, including Ru herself. “It is a hard question to answer. From my perspective, my job is to stay interested in what I do, I have been doing it for a long time. I set out to have a good time and be creative and do my thing. If other people are able to get something from that it is really great and I am happy about that. It has never been my goal to inspire or have an effect on other people. It has been to use all the colors in the crayon box.” Her latest interest is the incredibly popular RuPaul’s Drag Race, airing on MuchMoreMusic in Canada and LOGO in America. The show has thrust her back into the limelight in a big way. “I had avoided reality television for years because I didn’t want to do anything mean spirited or derogatory towards Drag. When I finally came around I went to my old buddies at World of Wonder, who also did my talk show on VH1. We took the idea around to Photo by Mathu Andersen several networks and it was pretty much bought in the room by LOGO, which almost never happens.” stated she had been HIV positive for two years. One couldn’t help Thus began the search. Ru explained the process of narrowing but get choked up. thousands of applicants down to the nine finalists on the show. “Part of the reason I knew I was safe in the reality television ”Most of the people who applied are not showgirls, which nar- realm, World of Wonder loves Drag the same way I do and see it rowed it down to probably 100. We wanted girls who were profes- in a deeper, human way that places drag high in pop culture. We sional performers who made a living doing shows and were on wanted to put a human face to Drag that is why the girls and I the younger side, in their 20’s and 30’s. That narrowed it down appear in and out of Drag. There is a soul and a spirit - behind to about 40 and of them; we chose the ones that represented a every gorgeous Drag image out there is a human being. That was wide gambit of what drag represents. The traditional show girl, the an important part of it. The real story of drag throughout the ages punk rocker, the diva. Those 9 represent the best that America is that it reminds its culture and the roles we play so seriously. has to offer.” Underneath it all we are all the same, actually one person and “We wanted to reintroduce Drag to a culture that has really share the same spirit. What you felt for Ongina is what you feel for pushed it underground. When I made it big, Drag was happening, yourself, you put yourself in that place and that’s why it was emo- but then there was a fear and hysteria that happened and popular tional, because you felt a part of you in her. That was important culture didn’t want to hear from gay men doing drag,” she con- for us to not only be entertaining but to put the human spirit in tinued. “They were ok with straight men doing it like Tyler Perry, there.” Eddie Murphy and Martin Lawrence, but for gay men to do it, it The show takes the contestants through a series of challenges, had to go underground.” including a group number as Destiny’s Child, making over female When the show was announced, many people may have cringed fighters, and having to create an outfit from a thrift store. at the thought of a Drag reality show, based on how sleazy the ”In this economy more people are going to find out you can be reality concept can often get. Instead, RuPaul’s Drag Race is fun, fabulous and thrifty. All of the challenges were based on my expe- warm, and addictive. It is easy to get attached to the 9 partici- riences of having to create something out of nothing. When I was pants. In one episode, contestant Ongina broke down in tears and a kid my soul sister Renata, she was this kid who introduced me

10 GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine #66, April 2009 Celebrity Interview to magic and that it is a state of mind. She put cookies in a brown paper bag and grabbed a blanket and we went and had a picnic. Living a successful, full life is about turning seemingly nothing into something. That was my first ten years in show business.” At the end of the show, the bottom two contestants had to lip- synch for their lives. The winner was told to shante, and stay. The loser had to sashay away. Ru admitted it was difficult at times to send the girls home. ”It was really heartbreaking. We saw so many audition tapes and the ones we got attached to ended up on the show. To see some of them be eliminated really was heartbreaking. The good thing is that we just shot a reunion show and got to see the girls and really bond with them for the first time. I couldn’t really go there before because I had to judge and didn’t want to show favor- itism. I let them know at the reunion that they are my kids forever and ever and we are connected, and if they want or need anything come and find me. We are family now. It was very difficult and I wasn’t prepared for that when I got into this show. Everything on paper didn’t prepare me for the emotional attachment. I think the audience also gets attached to them.” In addition to the show, Ru released Champion on iTunes in February. The album is in a word, addictive. The first singleCov - ergirl plays when Ru makes her entrance on the show. The song Champion is as uplifting and positive as it is energetic, and even serious songs like Never Go Home Again could easily pack a dance floor. From the opening seconds, the 12 tracks on the album are a lot of fun to listen to. RuPaul agrees. “I love it so much. I am embarrassed to say that I am still listening to it, it is my album of the moment. It has never been one of Photo by Mathu Andersen my own albums that has been my album of the moment. I am in love with this record because my writing partner Lucian Paine has coutrement, and all the things that make someone a glamazon. I a background in theatre and his melodic esthetic is so catchy and would love to create something like that.” so beautiful that our collaboration has generated these songs I can’t get out of my head. It is so beautiful, and I have never been There is still a lot of entertaining left to do. so gaga over one of my records before. I can’t wait for people to hear it.” “I would love to write and produce more movies. I got the opportunity to do Broadway many years ago but I turned it down The show and album mark a return to the spotlight for RuPaul, because I didn’t like the show. It is such a commitment to working who took some time away for a few years. that you have to love something to commit to it so wholeheartedly. It would have to be something that I was in love with. Working “When I was a kid growing up I was kind of odd looking, I stood Broadway doesn’t make any money, and you work your ass off. out. There were times even in grade school where my popularity You do it for the prestige of saying you were on Broadway.” would be really high and sometimes low, it would change. That really prepared me for show business. Through it all you have We couldn’t say sashay to RuPaul without asking for some tips to maintain a joy in what you are doing. The public is fickle and for up and coming queens that may be reading this article. Her trends change, so you can’t place importance on what other people response to the question is universal advice to help you find suc- think or what their buying habits are. I have always done what cess. interests me and now it just happens to be what other people are interested in. I did a movie a couple of years ago called Starbooty “The most important thing in any venture, whether it is drag or business law, is knowing thyself and finding your own frequency. Then you can expound upon that and take away the things that “We wanted to reintroduce Drag to a culture that has block that frequency. On a physical level, it is finding out what really pushed it underground. When I made it big, your body type is to work out your proportions, which still falls under knowing thyself. That is true for everybody whether you are Drag was happening, but then there was a fear and in drag or not.” hysteria that happened and popular culture didn’t want to hear from gay men doing drag.” Don’t be surprised to see RuPaul grace Calgary with her presence again. “I can’t wait to get Calgary again. I went there for Mac cosmetics that was my ‘blacksploitation’ roots, and that could have taken off many years ago and I remember seeing some of the Olympic sights if people were into it. Culturally there has been a shift and some- from the plane. It is so beautiful and I love the fact that there are how it worked in tandem with what I am doing.” so many cowboys up there. I think of the Olympics and Cowboys when I think of Calgary.” RuPaul can check off her list being a supermodel, an actor (several times over), releasing albums, performing around the world RuPaul’s Drag Race airs Sunday nights on MuchMoreMusic and hosting a talk show and reality TV series. What’s left? www.rupaulsdragrace.com www.rupaul.com “I want a child” she said breathlessly, before breaking out in her unmistakable laugh. “No that’s not true I can’t stand kids. There is Listen to RuPaul send writer Jason Clevett packing, as only she can, at so much more to do in merchandising and producing other people. GayCalgary.com! I would love to create a line of products that help people bring out their glam. People write me all the time about wigs and body ac-

GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine #66, April 2009 11 12 GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine #66, April 2009 GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine #66, April 2009 13 Out of Town Madison, Wisconsin

The Wisconsin State Capitol rises boldly above Madison’s skyline, its surrounding blocks dotted with hip and trendy restaurants and shops. Photo: Andrew Collins

performers. The dining scene is on par with any city its size, and By Andrew Collins while queer nightlife options are few, they’re also convivial and friendly. Of mid-sized cities, Madison is one of the gay-friend- Engaging State Street, a transit-and-pedestrian mall, connects liest in America. The regional political ethos is toler- Madison’s two most important institutions: the capitol building ance, and the city’s role as state capital and home and the university. If you have time, take a tour of the particularly base of the University of Wisconsin informs both the regal, granite-domed Wisconsin State Capitol, which dazzles visitors with its ornate murals, glass mosaics and marble detailing. community’s attitudes and its styles. About 60 miles due west of Milwaukee, Madison occupies an envi- Up near Capitol Square, State Street is largely the domain of suits and politicos, but closer to the campus of UW you’ll encoun- able position along a narrow isthmus between two ter a more collegiate scene - cheap ethnic restaurants, bike racks, picturesque lakes, Mendota and Monona. Biking and coffeehouses and scads of funky shops. Don’t miss A Room of hiking trails crisscross the city’s gently rolling hills. One’s Own, a capacious, clean and comfy bookstore with a com- It’s easy to see why Money magazine once named prehensive selection of lesbian and feminist titles, local resources, and a considerable gay male section, too. Madison the best place to live in America. Also within the parameters of State Street are several museums Other notable rankings - and there have been many - include that constitute Madison’s Museum Mile. The best are the Wiscon- being one of Outside magazine’s “Dream Towns,” one of Utne sin Historical Society Museum, which traces the state’s progressive Reader’s “Most Enlightened Towns”and one of Cosmo’s top cities political history, dairy-farming traditions and rich ethnic heri- for finding single men - presumably the focus wasstraight single tage; the Elvehjem Museum of Art, which contains a tremendous men, but there are plenty of gay single guys here, too. And here’s range of works, dating as far back as 2300 B.C.; and the Madison yet another fact about Madison - it has among the most unified Museum of Contemporary Art, which occupies a striking modern and visible feminist communities of any U.S. city. Women, includ- building and adjoins the similarly dazzling Overture Center for the ing quite a few lesbians, occupy influential positions in all walks of Arts. city life. In fact, Madison is noted for groundbreaking architectural Although regaled mostly for its livability, Madison (population achievements, perhaps the most famous being the Monona Terrace 225,000) makes for a great visit. The museums are excellent, and Community and Convention Center, completed in 1997 accord- the University of Wisconsin (UW) lands top-name speakers and ing to the Frank Lloyd Wright’s ambitious blueprints. Take one of

14 GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine #66, April 2009 Travel the building’s daily tours or head up to the rooftop garden for a addition to serving custard so thick you could anchor a flagpole in free concert and lake view. Additionally, eight Frank Lloyd Wright it, Michael’s serves up fries and juicy burgers. buildings within a two-hour drive of Madison are open to the public. The must-see is Taliesin, Wright’s sprawling home and studio Monty’s Blue Plate Diner is a fabulous homestyle diner serving complex, about 45 minutes away. both tried-and-true and more inventive fare, from roasted-veggie sandwiches to luscious vanilla malts. Near the Capitol, Michelan- Back on State Street, head away from the Capitol to reach the gelo’s Coffee House effectively captures Madison’s boho personality. gracious lakefront campus of the University of Wisconsin, the This elegant, art-filled space has comfy sofas and small tables and domain of 40,000 students. Start at the Old Red Gym Visitors Cen- draws lots of “family” - you can also get savory veggie wraps burst- ter for campus tours and general information. Then drop by the ing with lentils, rice, spinach and hummus. Wisconsin Memorial Union. Out back, overlooking Lake Mendota, is the seductive Memorial Union Terrace, one of the Midwest’s most Madison’s biggest and most popular gay night spot, Club 5 is a intellectual pick-up spots, gay or straight. spacious spread offering a little something for everyone: a puls- ing video dance bar; a patio and separate dart and pool lounges The Lake Monona Bike Trail Loop is one of several well-main- for both lesbians and leather-and-Levi’s guys. Downtown, the tained trails in this incredibly cyclist-friendly city. Another great low-keyed Shamrock Bar is a draws a quirky mix of gays, lesbians option, southwest of downtown, is the UW Arboretum Bike Trail. and straights of all ages and styles. Madison’s StageQ is one of the Pick this up at Henry Vilas Zoo and follow it through the esteemed nation’s foremost GLBT-themed theater companies, staging out- and quite beautiful UW Arboretum, which has 1,260 acres of trails, standing and often provocative productions throughout the year. forest, prairie and wetland. Another spot for taking in the outdoors, the Olbrich Botanical Gardens comprises 16 acres of lush plant- Among downtown hotels, the upscale Hilton Madison is a reli- ings, plus a 50-foot-tall pyramidal conservatory. able choice with spacious and well-kept rooms outfitted with Wi-Fi, plush bedding and sleek, contemporary furnishings. An inexpen- The presence of a political scene has infused the city with a sive lodging choice overlooking the Capitol, the Best Western Inn bounty of excellent restaurants at the high end and what feels like on the Park is also close to the Shamrock gay bar and plenty of a thousand cheap eats for frugal budgets. Food buffs shouldn’t good restaurants. Rooms at this very gay-friendly property have miss Capitol Square’s delightful Dane County Farmers’ Market a slightly old-school look, but the location and prices make it an (Saturdays and Wednesdays, mid-April through early November), excellent value. one of the best in the country. There are several gay-friendly B&Bs in Madison and the sur- Across the street, you can sample many of those fine ingredi- rounding countryside. At Arbor House, innkeepers Cathie and ents, put to highly creative use, at Harvest restaurant - a standout John Imes have turned one of Madison’s oldest houses into a from the ever-changing menu is oven-roasted wild king salmon remarkably eco-friendly B&B. There are two buildings, an 1853 with fennel, tomatoes and rosemary with an olive vinaigrette. A stagecoach tavern - with original wood floors and natural-stone couple of doors over, L’Etoile has been turning heads with its fireplaces - and a light-filled contemporary annex outfitted with superb farm-fresh American (with French accents) cuisine since thick walls made with reused wood and concrete, ceramic tiles 1976, and it continues to hold fashioned out of recycled glass and low-toxic building materials. its own against Madison’s many Rooms are quite cushy, the top units with whirlpool tubs. Just hip newcomers. Be sure to order south of town, the women-owned a cheese course - L’Etoile has Hawk’s Nest Resort consists of a pair some of the most unusual arti- of beautiful, airy timber-beam cabins san selections in the country. that are ideal for groups of friends seeking a getaway. Both units have One restaurant that’s turned three bedrooms and can sleep up to nearby King Street into a dining eight guests. A tranquil lake is just destination, Cafe Continental down the street, and this is a terrific charms patrons with an import- area for biking. You’d never know ed zinc bar and burgundy ban- you’re less than a 20-minute drive quettes. The menu leans toward from downtown Madison. Mediterranean, with a variety of pizzas, pastas and grilled meats. Andrew Collins is the author of Fodor’s Gay A favorite lunch spot near the Guide to the USA and eight additional travel Capitol, Marigold Kitchen serves guides. light, healthful salads, sandwiches and breakfast/brunch fare, including a tasty duck-con- fit hash with two eggs any style. Owned partly by Butch Vig, the The Little Black Book musician from the queer-popular alternative band Garbage, Cafe Montmartre is a laid-back,  Arbor House (608-238-2981, www.arbor-house.com). Best artsy spot to listen to cool live Western Inn on the Park (608-285-8000 or 800-279-8811, www. jazz bands, sip wine and munch innonthepark.net). Cafe Continental (608-251-4880, www.znbar. com). Cafe Montmartre (608-255-5900, www.themomo.com). Club on quite credible bistro fare. 5 (608-277-9700, www.club-5.com). Harvest (608-255-6075, www. For fresh sushi as well as harvest-restaurant.com). Hawk’s Nest Resort (608-838-4798, www. nicely prepared teriyaki, suki- hawksnestresort.com). Hilton Madison (608-255-5100, www.hilton. yaki and tempura dishes, tuck com). L’Etoile (608-251-0500, www.letoile-restaurant.com). Madison into Wasabi on State Street. Convention and Visitors Bureau (608-255-2537 or 800-373-6376, www.visitmadison.com). Marigold Kitchen (608-661-5559, www. Noodle joints are another Madi- marigoldkitchen.com). Michael’s Frozen Custard (608-222-4110, son specialty, a funky favorite www.ilovemichaels.com). Michelangelo’s Coffee House (608-251- being Wah Kee Wonton Noodle. 5299). Monty’s Blue Plate Diner (608-244-8505, www.foodfightinc. And don’t leave town without com/montys.htm). Shamrock Bar (608-255-5029, www.shamrock- stopping by Michael’s Frozen bar.com). StageQ (608-294-0740, www.stageq.com). Wah Kee Wonton Custard to scarf down a cup of Noodle (608-255-5580). Wasabi (608-255-5020, www.wasabi-madi- Madison’s favorite dessert - in son.com).

GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine #66, April 2009 15 16 GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine #66, April 2009 Directory and Events

 http://www.twistedelement.ca Lunch is provided. members. Season’s pass $75. Legend Dance Club and Lounge. • Volunteer Open House • Bowling (Rainbow Riders League) ✰ Our Magazine Available Here------Bathhouses/Saunas  1603 – 10 Avenue SW  Let’s 10 Pin Bowlerama, 2916 - 5 Ave NE Wheelchair Accessible Venue------ Wed, Apr 22nd, 4pm-7pm  See website for details. 6 Goliath’s------✰ Alberta Society for Kink • Curling  308 - 17 Ave SW  (403) 229-0911  (403) 398-9968  North Hill Curling Club (1201 - 2 Street NW) CALGARY  http://www.goliaths.ca  [email protected]  Saturdays: 2:20pm and 4:30pm  Open 7 days a week, 24 hours a day Bars and Clubs  ca.groups.yahoo.com/ Season starts October 18, 2008 group.albertasocietyforkink • Golf Community Groups  3 Backlot------✰ Meet and Greets: Mondays, 7pm-9:30pm  [email protected]  209 - 10th Ave SW  (403) 265-5211 2 Aids Calgary------✰ • Kinky Flea Market • Lawn Bowling  Open 7 days a week, 4pm-close  110, 1603 10th Avenue SW  Forest Heights Community Centre  (403) 508-2500  [email protected]. 4 Calgary Eagle Inc.------✰ 4909 Forego Ave SE  [email protected] • Outdoor Pursuits  424a - 8th Ave SE  (403) 263-5847  Info: (403) 398-9968  http://www.aidscalgary.org If it’s done outdoors, we do it! This winter we  http://www.calgaryeagle.com  Sat. April 4th, 12pm-5pm • Day on Prostitution/Sexual Exploitation Admission: $3.00 will be downhill and crosscountry skiing, skating  Open Wed-Sun, 5pm-close and snowshoeing and a whole bunch more. If Leather/Denim/Fetish bar.  FCJ Christian Life Centre Apollo Calgary Friends in Sports 219, 19 Avenue SW you’re interested in any of these or something ✰  http://www.apollocalgary.com 55 Marquee Room------ (403) 508-2500 else completely, get in touch with us. All events  612 - 8th Avenue SW Apollo Friends In Sports is a volunteer-operated, are organized by the members so if you’re tired  Apr 16th, 8:30am-4:30pm non-profit organization serving primarily members  http://www.marqueeroom.com Lunch is provided. Registration is free. Please call of playing alone outdoors and want to meet other Alternative night every Wednesday. of the Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual & Transgendered outdoorsy people, go to myapollo.org to create a to register. communities but open to members of all ✰ profile and get added to the mailing list. 9 MPs (Money Pennies)------• Addiction Day and Networking Fair communities. We currently have more than 400  1742 - 10th Ave SW  (403) 263-7411  Red and White Club (1817 Crowchild Trail NW) members and are growing fast! The primary focus • Running (Calgary Frontrunners)  http://www.money-pennies.com  Janis Pearson: (403) 220-7032 of Apollo is to provide our membership with well  Coffee Junkies, 7th Street and 1st Ave SW  Closed Mondays.  Apr 17th, 7:30am-4:30pm organized and fun sporting events and other  Tim (403) 660-6125 Bar and restaurant. This will be a community day of learning and activities to allow them to participate and interact in  [email protected]  Saturdays at 9am 6 Texas Lounge------✰ networking for social workers, health workers, a positive social framework.  308 - 17 Ave SW  (403) 229-0911 government agencies, community associations and Distance varies. 8km-15km. Runners from 6 • Badminton (Absolutely Smashing) minute/mile to 9+ minute miles. During the  http://www.goliaths.ca interested individuals.  St. Martha School (6020 4th Avenue NE)  Open 7 days a week, 11am-close summer we attempt to have evening runs during • HIV Treatment/Transmission Workshop  Wednesdays, 7pm-9pm the week. 33 Twisted Element  AIDS Calgary Training Room Oct 8 to Dec 10, Jan 7 to Apr 1.  1006 - 11th Ave SW  (403) 802-0230  Apr 20 & 21, 9am - 4:30pm Fees Per session: $4 for Apollo member, $5 for non- DOWNTOWN CALGARY

GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine #66, April 2009 17 Directory and Events

• Slow Pitch Cabin Fever sexual health and well-being. recreational and competitive swimmers. Coaching Summer sport - not currently active.  Calgary Eagle, 424a 8th Ave SW • Calgary Networking Club is offered to assist with technique and fitness • Tennis  3RD THURSDAY every month  MPs, 1742 - 10th Ave SW development. After swim practice is a nice cool Summer sport - not currently active. Women’s dance and social night.  First Tuesday of every month, 5pm-7pm down in the hot tub where announcements will be made. Usually team members will go for dinner Calgary Gay Fathers The networking meetings are open to all individuals • Volleyball (Intermediate/Competitive) after practice and everyone is welcome.  YWCA, 320 - 5th Avenue SE  [email protected] who would like to promote their businesses or  www.apollocalgary.com/apollo/volleyball  http://www.geocities.com/calgaryfathers who would like to meet new people - no business • Annual Western Cup Swim Meet   Every Sunday, 4:15pm-6:30pm, until April 5th Peer support group for gay, bisexual and affiliation is necessary. Talisman Recreation Cntr, 2225 Macleod Tr SW This is for seasoned players. You can sign up for the questioning fathers. Meeting twice a month. • Heading Out  Fri April 10th, 2009, 10am-2pm A fun sprint meet. Although this is a Swim Alberta season or drop-in. Calgary Men’s Chorus  2nd and 4th Friday of every month, 7pm-9pm sanctioned meet, we emphasize fun! You don’t • Volleyball (Recreational)  http://www.calgarymenschorus.org Peer group for men who are looking for an alternative social activity to the bar. Activities vary have to be an expert swimmer to come out and  Langevin School, 107 - 6A Street NE • Rehearsals and are fun and entertaining. compete and have fun!  www.apollocalgary.com/apollo/volleyball  Old Y Centre, 223 - 12 Avenue SW Don’t Buy In Project  Every Friday, 7pm-9pm, until April 24th  Tuesday nights, Sept-Jun, 7pm-9:30pm • Illusions Calgary All are welcome. This is for all skill levels, including Social group for Calgary and area transgender  http://www.dontbuyin.ca • Eclipse Concert recreational players and beginners. You can sign up community members (cross dressers, transvestites, This Calgary Police Service Initiative aims to  Rozsa Centre, University of Calgary for the season or drop-in. drag kings and queens). Illusions provides a safe, encourage youth to working towards an inclusive  Sat June 20th, 8:00pm discrete and welcoming atmosphere, in which environment in which diversity is embraced in their • Yoga Tickets $20. To purchase, please visit website. schools and community. No information available. transgendered people can meet others of like mind. Calgary Sexual Health Centre------✰ Illusions offers discretion, acceptance, compassion FairyTales Presentation Society Apollo Western Cup  304, 301 14th Street NW and a safe place to express your gender. Cross-  #4 - 1230A 17th Avenue SW  The Westin Calgary (320 - 4 Ave SW)  (403) 283-5580 dressing is the purpose of the group, but is not  (403) 244-1956  (403) 266-1611  http://www.calgarysexualhealth.ca mandatory.  [email protected]  Apr 9th - 11th Calgary Sexual Health Centre is a pro-choice • Inside Out  http://www.fairytalesfilmfest.com organization that believes all people have the right • Participant Check-In  Every Monday, 7pm-9pm Alberta Gay & Lesbian Film Festival. and ability to make their own choices regarding  Thurs, Apr 9th Peer-facilitated youth group for GLBTQ ages 15-25. • DVD Resource Library their sexual and reproductive health. Calgary The group aims to let youth know they are not Over a hundred titles to choose from. Annual • On Your Mark: Welcome Reception Sexual Health Centre started as a volunteer based, alone, and to connect them with their peers. It is membership is $10.  Thurs, Apr 9th, 7pm-10pm grassroots organization and has been providing a funky and safe environment with a variety of • Cocktails comprehensive sexuality education and counselling • Monthly Screenings resources and activities.  Fri, Apr 10th, 6:30pm programs to the Calgary community since 1972.  The Plaza Theatre, Kensington • New Directions  See website for details. • Get Set: Dinner and a Show 1 Calgary Outlink------✰  Every 3rd Friday of the month, 7pm-9pm  Fri, Apr 10th, 7:30pm-10pm  #4, 1230A 17th Avenue SW • Annual Film Festival Drop in peer-support group to provide support and  (403) 234-8973  May 28th - June 6th, 2009 • GO: Western Cup Dance resources for individuals who identify as transsexual  http://www.calgaryoutlink.com  Sat, Apr 11th, 9pm-2am or inter-sexed. If you are transsexual, or know Girl Friends Formerly know as the Gay And Lesbian Community of someone who is, please contact our office for  members.shaw.ca/girlfriends • All Day Sports Services Association (GLCSA).  Apr 10th, Apr 11th information and assistance. You are not alone! • Taste Buds Bi-monthly Dinner For details, please go to your sport’s page online. • Peer Support and Crisis Line There is support!  Bali Indonesian Restaurant Front-line help service for GLBT individuals and • SHEQ Soulful Healing Ego Quest 611 - 6th Street SW Alberta Rockies Gay Rodeo Association their family and friends, or anyone questioning  Trudy or Krista, (403) 585-7437  Sat, Apr 25th, 7pm  (403) 541-8140  www.argra.org their sexuality.  Runs for a ten week period on Thursdays, 7pm Please rsvp by Wednesday, April 22nd so we can try • Monthly Dances------• Library A workshop for women that want to be themselves to accommodate everyone.  Hillhurst-Sunnyside Community Association A great selection of resource books, fiction, non- in a supportive, safe environment. It is a chance Girlsgroove 1320 5th Avenue NW fiction, videos and everything in between, all with a to grow and share their experiences related to  http://www.girlsgroove.ca  Sat April 18th, 2009 @ 8pm queer perspective. women’s sexuality. To participate, please call the • Women-Only Event $6 ARGRA Members, $10 non-members. exclusive SHEQ line or leave your name and a • Drop-In Center  Gerry Thomas Gallery (100, 602 11th Ave SW) Artists for the Quality of Life contact time/number with Calgary Outlink. A safe and supportive environment for one-to-one  April 25th, 9pm-2am  (403) 890-1261  www.afqol.com peer counseling for many issues surrounding family, • Womynspace Tickets: $20 advance, $30 at door (Capacity 250). • Muy Caliente coming out, homosexuality, loneliness and other  Every first and third Friday, 7pm-9pm Food menu available to order.  La Pachanga (918 - 12th Ave SW) issues. Peer social/support group for women providing an HIV Peer Support Group  Thurs, Apr 30th, 5pm VIP/9:30pm General evening of fun, bonding, discussion and activities. • Between Men and Between Men Online  (403) 230-5832 Tickets: $10/person  Tuesdays 7pm-9pm Calgary Queer Book Club  [email protected] • Fundraiser Peer support, sexual health education for gay  Weeds Cafe (1903 20 Ave NW) ISCCA Social Association  The Texas Lounge (308B - 17th Avenue SW) or bisexual men, as well as those who may be First meeting. Look us up on Facebook. uncertain or questioning their sexuality. Discussions  http://www.iscca.ca  Friday, June 19th Deer Park United Church/Wholeness Centre range from personal relationship or life issues, to Imperial Sovereign Court of the Chinook Arch. Hosted by Mz Toni & Dyna Myte  77 Deerpoint Road SE  (403) 278-8263 • Shooters at Texas Lounge  http://www.dpuc.ca  Tuesdays and Saturdays, 8pm-11:30pm  Worship Time - 10am Sundays • Shooters at the Backlot Different Strokes Looking for Something?  Apr 10  http://www.differentstrokescalgary.org Browse over 450 listings in our Online GLBT Business Directory, and our • Candidate Elections • Swim Practice  The Backlot (209 - 10th Avenue SW) complete Online GLBT Community Events Calendar.  SAIT Pool, 1301 - 16th Ave NW  Sat, Apr 11th, noon-midnight  Sundays and Thursdays, 6-7pm www.gaycalgary.com Different Strokes Calgary accommodates both

18 GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine #66, April 2009 Directory and Events

• Imperial Roast • Coffee Night • Card Night  http://www.cjsw.com  The Texas Lounge  Second Cup (2312 - 4th Street SW)  Harvey and Tony’s  (403) 547-9129  Every Wednesday from 9-10pm  Tuesday, April 14th, 7:30pm-11:30pm  May 2nd, 7:30pm-10ish.  April 21st Focus on sexuality; gay bisexual lesbian trans • In-Town Show NETWORKS Queers on Campus------✰ gendered and straight issues here in Calgary and  MPs Eatery & Bar  (403) 293-3356  279R Student Union Club Spaces, U of C around the web.  Thursday, April 16th, 7pm  [email protected]  (403) 220-6394 Western Canada Bigmen and Admirers • Emperor’s Pub Crawl A social, cultural, and service organization for  http://www.ucalgary.ca/~glass  groups.yahoo.com/group/  Friday, April 17th, 6pm-8:30pm the mature minded and “Plus 40” gay, lesbian, Formerly GLASS - Gay/Lesbian Association of WesternCanadaBigmenGroup/ bisexual, and transgendered individuals seeking to Students and Staff.  [email protected] • Out of Town Show meet with others at age-appropriate activities within  Calgary Eagle • Coffee Night Vigor Calgary apositive, safe, non-threatening and nurturing  2nd Cup, Kensington.  (403) 255-7004  www.vigorcalgary.ca  Friday, April 17th, 9pm environment. Doors 5:00pm, music in by 9:00pm. Showtime  Every Tuesday, 7pm. Violence in Gay Male Relationships (VIGOR) is a 9:30pm. Admission by Donation. Parents for Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG) Rainbow Community Church committee of professionals dedicated to increasing  Sean: (403) 695-5791  Hillhurst United, 1227 Kensington Close NW the awareness of gay men’s domestic violence and • Coronation 33  http://www.pflagcanada.ca  the services available to them.  The Westin Hotel, Grand Ball Room [email protected] PFLAG Canada is a registered charitable  http://www.rainbowcommunitychurch.ca “Yeah... What She Said!” Radio Show  Saturday, April 18th, 6pm organization that provides support, education and Tickets: $35 in advance, $40 at the door.  Services: every Sunday afternoon at 4:00pm  CJSW 90.9 FM resources to parents, families and individuals who The Rainbow Community Church is an all-inclusive  [email protected] • Victory Brunch have questions or concerns about sexual orientation church; everyone is welcome.  Every Monday evening, 8:30-9pm  The Westin Hotel or gender identity.  Sunday, April 19th, 11am Rocky Mountain Bears Positive Space Committee  [email protected] Restaurants $20/person.  4825 Mount Royal Gate SW  http://www.rockymountainbears.com • Alaskan Bird Water Party  (403) 440-6383 4 Calgary Eagle Inc.------✰  Calgary Eagle  [email protected] • Bear Bar Night See Calgary - Bars and Clubs.  Calgary Eagle  Fri, April 10th  Sunday, April 19th, 3pm-7pm  http://www.mtroyal.ca/positivespace 9 MPs (Money Pennies)------✰ The Positive Space Committee at Mount Royal • Tough Drag Show • Game Night See Calgary - Bars and Clubs. College works to raise awareness and challenge   Calgary Eagle Brad & Gerry’s (556 Lysander Drive) the patterns of silence that continue to marginalize   Sunday, April 19th, 11am (403) 236-4264 Retail Stores lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans-gendered, two-spirited  [email protected] All monies raised go to Charity: Agape Manor, and queer (LGBTTQ) individuals.  Sat, Apr 18th, 7pm 51 A Little More Interesting------✰ Beswick House, HIV Peer Support, Artists for Quality Pride Calgary Planning Committee $5 to cover costs.  1501B, 17th Avenue SW  (403) 475-7775 of Life, Children’s Wish Foundation  http://wwww.alittlemoreinteresting.com  (403) 262-3410  www.pridecalgary.ca • Coat Check Knox United Church ✰ • Pride 2009 - Dance  Calgary Eagle  April 10th, 24th Adult Depot------ 506 - 4th Street SW  (403) 269-8382  140, 58th Ave SW  (403) 258-2777  Sat September 5th • Annual General Meeting  http://www.knoxunited.ab.ca Gay, bi, straight video rentals and sex toys. Knox United Church is an all-inclusive church • Pride 2009 - Parade and Street Gala  Money Pennies  Thurs, Apr 23rd, 7pm 48 Barbies Shop------✰ located in downtown Calgary. A variety of facility  Sunday September 6th Safety Under the Rainbow  1313 16th Avenue SW  (403) 262-8265 rentals are also available for meetings, events and  http://www.safetyrainbow.ca Pride Rainbow Project  http://www.barbiesshop.com concerts.  [email protected] Mission: To raise awareness and understanding of Bongs and Such------✰ • Worship Services  http://www.priderainbowproject.com same-sex domestic violence and homophobic youth  214, 2066 18th Ave NE  (403) 250-7004  Wednesdays - Communion Service 12:10pm. Youth run project designed to show support for bullying.  4829 Macleod Tr. SW  (403) 243-5251 Sundays - 11am. September to June. same-sex marriage in Canada and elsewhere. A Scarboro United Church  1-866-411-BONG Sundays - 10:30am in July and August. fabric rainbow banner approximately 5 feet wide  134 Scarboro Avenue SW - goal is to make it 3.2km (2 miles) long, in order Erotic Xxes Boutique------✰ Miscellaneous Youth Network  (403) 244-1161  www.scarborounited.ab.ca to break the world record.   4823 Macleod Trail SW  (403) 243-4196  http://www.miscyouth.com Sunday Worship: 10:30am Primetimers Calgary Scarboro United Church is a caring community  4008 - 26th Street SE  (403) 207-5542 • Fake Mustache------ http://www.eroticxxesboutique.ca  [email protected] for risk-takers, adventurers, and explorers in  The Soda, 211 - 12th Ave SW Open 7 days a week and holidays  http://www.primetimerscalgary.com contemporary Christian living. Scarboro is an  First Thursday of every month Prime Timers Calgary is designed to foster social affirming congregation, which means that the full 41 La Fleur------Calgary’s ONLY Drag King Show. $5 cover. $2 interaction for its members through a variety of inclusion of LGBT people is essential to our mission  103 - 100 7th Avenue SW cover under 18. Advance tickets available at Barbies social, educational and recreational activities. It is and purpose. Scarboro United Church welcomes  (403) 266-1707 Shop. All Ages show starts at 7:30. 18+ show open to all gay and bisexual men of any age and all to our spiritually enriching Sunday Service at Florist and Flower Shop. starts at 10:15. 10:30am. Afterwards, all are welcome to join us respects whatever degree of anonymity that each The Naked Leaf------• Angels and Demons Carnival in fellowship downstairs over coffee, tea, juice, and member desires.  305 10th Street NW  (403) 283-3555  Money Pennies home-baked treats. • Free Pool at the Calgary Eagle  http://www.thenakedleaf.ca  (403) 282-0127  Every Wednesday • Sunday Worship in July Organic teas and tea ware.  [email protected]  St. Matthews United Church (2039 26A St SW) 16 Priape Calgary------✰  Sat, Apr 18th, 9pm-3am • Saturday Coffee  (403) 249-1721  [email protected]   1322 - 17 Ave SW  (403) 215-1800 Presented by the Miscellaneous Youth Network and Midtown Co-op, 1130 - 11th Ave SW  Through July 2009, 10:30am AIDS Calgary, in benefit of The Laramie Project.  Every Saturday, 10am  http://www.priape.com Sharp Foundation Tickets are $10 in advance available at Money • Monthly Gathering at MoneyPennies Clothing and accessories. Adult toys, leather wear,  (403) 272-2912 movies and magazines. Gifts. Pennies, $15 at the door.  Please check the website.  [email protected] Wares & Wear Ventures Inc. Mystique • Vertigo Theatre Night  http://www.thesharpfoundation.com  [email protected] See Canada - Retail Stores.  April 26th, 6:30pm Urban Sex Radio Show Mystique is primarily a Lesbian group for women 30 Sherlock Holmes - Director’s Performance and up but all are welcome.  CJSW 90.9 FM

GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine #66, April 2009 19 Directory and Events

DOWNTOWN EDMONTON

 http://www.lornedoucette.com • Safeworks Van  [email protected] Services Marnie Campbell (Maxwell Realtors)  (403) 850-3755  http://www.theatrejunction.com  Sat-Thu: 8pm-12am, Fri: 4pm-12am 54 Battistella  (403) 479-8619 34 Vertigo Mystery Theatre------ 192 15th Avenue SW  (403) 290-1664  http://www.marniecampbell.ca TherapyWorks  161, 115 - 9 Ave SE  (403) 221-3708  www.battistella.ca MFM Communications  (403) 561-6873  http://www.vertigomysterytheatre.com Condo developer, real estate.   (403) 543-6970 [email protected]  57 BRAZILya  1-877-543-6970 http://www.therapyworks.com  #3, 1114 - 11th Street SW  http://www.mfmcommunications.com Take back your life from stress, sadness, and worry. EDMONTON  (403) 457-2955 Web site hosting and development. Computer  www.brazilyalaser.com hardware and software. Theatre and Fine Arts Bars and Clubs ✰ Calgary Civil Marriage Centre Rick Grenier (Invis) 36 ATP, Alberta Theatre Projects 5 Boots Bar and Lounge------ (403) 246-4134  [email protected]  (403) 862-1162  [email protected]  (403) 294-7402  http://www.ATPlive.com  10242 106th St  (780) 423-5014 Marriage Commissioner for Alberta (aka Justice of Mortgage solutions. AXIS Contemporary Art------ http://www.bootsbar.ca/ the Peace - JP), Marriage Officiant, Commissioner  107, 100 - 7 Ave SW  (403) 262-3356 6 Buddy’s Nite Club------✰ 45 R. Cobalt------✰ for Oaths.    735 12th Avenue SW  (403) 228-7822  [email protected]  www.axisart.ca 11725 Jasper Ave (780) 488-6636 24 Courtney Aarbo (Barristers & Solicitors) Hair salon and esthetics. Fairytales 13 PLAY Nightclub------✰  1138 Kensington Road NW See Calgary - Community Groups.  10220 103 Street  (780) 497-7529 56 Sacred Balance Piercing  (403) 571-5120  [email protected]  1528 - 17th Avenue SW  (403) 277-4449 43 Lisa Heinricks (Artist)------ http://www.courtneyaarbo.ca  http://www.playnightclub.ca  www.sacredbalancetattoo.com  Art Central, 100 7th Ave SW, lower level GLBT legal services. Tattos and body piercing.  http://www.creamydreamy.com 8 Prism Bar & Grill------✰ Cruiseline  10524 101st St  (780) 990-0038 SafeWorks 35 One Yellow Rabbit------ (403) 777-9494 trial code 3500  http://www.prismbar.ca Free and confidential HIV/AIDS and STI testing.  Big Secret Theatre - EPCOR CENTRE  http://www.cruiseline.ca  (403) 299-8888  www.oyr.org 12 Woody’s------✰ Telephone classifieds and chat - 18+ ONLY. • Calgary Drop-in Centre  11725 Jasper Ave  (780) 488-6557  Room 117, 423 - 4th Ave SE 37 Pumphouse Theatre------✰ DevaDave Salon & Boutique  (403) 699-8216  2140 Pumphouse Avenue SW  810 Edmonton Trail NE  Mon-Fri: 9am-12pm, Sat: 12:15pm-3:15pm  (403) 263-0079 Bathhouses/Saunas  (403) 290-1973  http://www.pumphousetheatres.ca 7 Down Under Baths------✰ Cuts, Colour, Hilights. • Centre of Hope  Room 201, 420 - 9th Ave SE Stagewest------✰  12224 Jasper Ave  (780) 482-7960 Duncan’s Residential Cleaning  (403) 410-1180  Mon-Fri: 1pm-5pm  727 - 42 Avenue SE  (403) 243-6642  http://www.gayedmonton.com  Jim Duncan: (403) 978-6600  http://www.stagewestcalgary.com 11 Steamworks------✰ Residential cleaning. Free estimates. • Sheldon M. Chumir Health Centre  1213 - 4th Str SW  (403) 955-6014 58 Theatre Junction------✰  11745 Jasper Ave  (780) 451-5554 Lorne Doucette (CIR Realtors)  Sat-Thu: 4:15pm-7:45pm, Fri: Closed  Theatre Junction GRAND, 608 1st St. SW  http://www.steamworksedmonton.com  (403) 461-9195  (403) 205-2922

20 GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine #66, April 2009 Directory and Events

4 Edmonton STD • YouthSpace • Dragon Boat Community Groups  11111 Jasper Ave  [email protected]  [email protected]  Tuesday to Friday, 3pm-7pm We are exploring the option of setting up a dragon BEEF Bear Bash Edmonton Vocal Minority Saturday 2pm-7pm boat team for 2009. Please send your name and  Boots Bar and Lounge  (780) 479-2038  [email protected] An after-school drop-in program for gay, lesbian, contact information.  www.bearbeef.org  www.evmchoir.com Bar night for hairy men and admirers. bisexual, trans-identified, queer, questioning and • Gymnastics, Drop-in 3 HIV Network Of Edmonton Society---- ✰ allied (GLBTQQ&A) youth under 25.  Ortona Gymnastics Club, 8755 - 50 Avenue Buck Naked Boys Club  11456 Jasper Ave  www.hivedmonton.com  (780) 471-6993 • Youth Understanding Youth  [email protected]  http://www.bucknakedboys.ca Imperial Sovereign Court of the Wild Rose  [email protected]  www.members.shaw.ca/yuy  Tuesdays & Thursdays, 8pm-10pm  2nd Saturday of every month  http://www.gayedmonton.org  Every Saturday, 7pm-9pm Have the whole gym to yourselves and an instructor Naturism club for men. Our club has been meeting • Dinner with the Imperial House Youth support and social group. to help you achieve your individual goals. Cost is continuously for over 10 years. The similar club in  Boots Bar & Lounge • Youth Yoga $5.00 per session. Calgary ceased to exist several years ago. Naturism  Sun, Apr 26th, 6pm-8pm  Alex Taylor School Gym (9321 Jasper Ave) • Outdoor Pursuits is being social while everyone is naked, and it does All you can eat pierogi dinner, $10/person.  Every 1st Thursday, 4:30pm  [email protected] not include sexual activity. Therefore participants • The Luv Show Team Edmonton • Running (Arctic Frontrunners) do not need to be gay, only male, but almost all  Prism Bar & Grill  [email protected]  Kinsmen Sports Centre participants over the years do self-describe as being  Fri, Apr 24th, 9pm-10pm  http://www.teamedmonton.ca  [email protected] gay or bisexual. OUTreach Members are invited to attend and help determine  Every Sunday, 10am-11am Camp fYrefly  University of Alberta, basement of SUB the board for the next term. If you are interested in All genders and levels of runners and walkers are  7-104 Dept. of Educational Policy Studies  [email protected] running for the board or getting involved in some of invited to join this free activity. Faculty of Education, University of Alberta  http://www.ualberta.ca/~outreach the committees, please contact us. • Swimming (Making Waves) Edmonton, Alberta, Canada T6G 2G5 Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender/transsexual, • Badminton  NAIT Swimming Pool  http://www.fyrefly.ualberta.ca Queer, Questioning and Straight-but-not-Narrow  Oliver School, 10227 - 118 Street  [email protected] Edmonton Pride Week Society student group.  [email protected]  Every Tuesday, 8am-9pm  http://www.prideedmonton.org • A Night Out With the Girls  Wednesdays, 6pm-7:30pm  Every Thursday, 7:30pm-8:30pm • Pride Week 2009 - Age of Aqueerius  Play Nightclub  April 3rd Season starts March 8th • Roller Derby (Practices)  June 12 to 21, 2009 Women’s Drop-In Recreational Badminton. 1 Pride Centre of Edmonton------✰  [email protected] Edmonton Prime Timers  95A Street, 111 Ave  (780) 488-3234 •Ballroom Dancing  Mondays & Thursdays, 6:30-8:30pm  Foot Notes Dance Studio, 9708-45 Avenue NW E-Ville Roller Derby is a community-wise sports  [email protected] • Bears Movie Night  www.primetimersww.org/edmonton  (780) 469-3281 initiative for adult females. Their purpose is for fun,  TV room, Pride Centre of Edmonton EPT is a group of older gay men and their admirers  Sundays, 7:30-8:30pm friendly sports competition among like-minded  Last Sunday of the month, 1-6pm who come from diverse backgrounds but have Beginner Ballroom program is designed for people women. You need no prior experience in roller common social interests. Meetings include a social • Get Tested for STIs who have no previous dance instruction and have derby. They’ll teach you everything you need to period, a short business meeting and then either  Last Thurs of Month, 3pm - 6pm the desire to gain confidence on the social dance know, including how to skate! a guest speaker, discussion panel, or a potluck • GLBT Seniors Drop-In floor. *Students may take level 2 upon completion • Samsara Yoga of the beginner course. *All gender combinations of supper. Special interest groups meet for other social  Every Tuesday & Thursday, 1-4pm  Korezone Fitness, #203, 10575 -115 Street dancers are welcome. *Partners are not required. activities throughout the month. In July and August Program serving our GLBT seniors. Hosted by Jeff  [email protected] we have a BBQ or picnic in lieu of a meeting and in Bovee. Absolute Beginner Session Dates: September 21st  Every Sunday, 2pm-3:30pm December it’s replaced with a Christmas party. EPT • Trans Education/Support Group - November 30th, January 18th - March 29th, April • Soccer is affiliated with Prime Timers World Wide. 19th - July 5th. $149.00 +GST / 10 weeks. Call  1st & 3rd Sundays of each month, 2-4pm  [email protected] • Monthly Meetings to register. Support and education for all transsexual, • Tennis  Unitarian Church, 10804 - 119th Street transgendered, intersexed, two-spirited and • Blazin’ Bootcamp  [email protected]  2nd Sunday of most months, 2:30pm questioning individuals.  Lynnwood Elementary School, 15451- 84 Ave April 12th: Annual General Meeting • Volleyball, Free To Be Intermediate • Men’s Discussion Group  [email protected] May 10th: Presentation by HIV Edmonton  Every Monday, 7pm-8:15pm  Amiskiwaciy Academy, 101 Airport Road  [email protected] June 14th: Bingo Indoor season resumes January 5th  [email protected]  Every Sunday, 7pm July 11th-13th: BBQ and/or Campout at Pine Trails  Thursday nights from 8pm-10pm Mens social and discussion group. • Bowling (Northern Titans) Indoor season resumes on January 8th Edmonton Rainbow Business Association • Men’s HIV Support Group  Gateway Lanes, 100 - 3414 Gateway Blvd  3379, 11215 Jasper Ave  (780) 429-5014  [email protected] • Volleyball, Free To Be Recreational  2nd Monday of the month, 7-9pm  http://www.edmontonrba.org  Every Saturday, 5pm-7pm  Mother Teresa School, 9008 - 105A Ave ERBA’s primary focus is the provision of networking • Prime Timers Resumes Saturday January 3rd  Tuesday Nights, 8pm-10pm opportunities for gay, lesbian, bisexual and See Edmonton Primetimers. $15.00 per person. Indoor season resumes January 6th transgendered (GLBT) owned or operated and Drop-In $4.00, Full Season $60.00 ($2.50/game), • Queer Youth Sport & Recreation night • Cross-Country Skiing GLBT-friendly businesses in the Edmonton region. Half Season $35.00 ($2.91/game)  Alex Taylor School Gym, 9321 Jasper Ave  Gold Bar Park Membership is open to all kinds of entrepreneurs,  Brendan, (780) 488-3234  Saturday January 10th, 1pm Womonspace from tradespeople to professionals to commission  [email protected]  (780) 482-1794 • Curling with Pride salespeople.  First Tuesday of every month, 4:30pm  [email protected]  Granite Curling Club, 8620 107 Street NW • After Business Mixers  www.womonspace.ca • Suit Up and Show Up Group  (780) 463-5942  Garage Burger Bar (10244 - 106th St.) Women’s social group, but all welcome at events.  Every Saturday, 12 noon  [email protected]  2nd Wednesday every month 5:30–7:30pm Big Book Study of Alcoholics Anonymous.  See website for details. • Silent Auction & Spring Fling Dance Edmonton Illusions Social Club  Bellevue Community Hall • Sick and tired of being sick and tired? • Cycling  Boots Bar & Grill 7308 - 112 Ave NW  Every Thursday, 7pm-8pm  Various locations in Edmonton  (780) 387-3343  April 25th, 9pm Escape Cocaine.  [email protected]  groups.yahoo.com/group/edmonton_illusions Members $10, guests of members $15.  Every Wednesday, 6:30pm  2nd Thursday of each month

GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine #66, April 2009 21 Directory and Events

• Gay Youth Alliance Group Restaurants BANFF/CANMORE  Betty, (403) 381-5260  [email protected] 5 Garage Burger Bar & Grill------ Every second Wednesday, 3:30pm-5pm CANADA  10242 106th St  (780) 423-5014 Community Groups • Friday Mixer Community Groups 8 Prism Bar & Grill------✰  The Mix (green water tower) See Edmonton - Bars and Clubs. Mountain Pride 103 Mayor Magrath Dr S Alberta Trans Support/Activities Group  Brian, (403) 431-2569  Every Friday at 10pm  http://www.albertatrans.org  [email protected] A nexus for transgendered persons, regardless of Retail Stores • Movie Night  www.gaybanff.com where they may be on the continuum. Rodéo Drive  Room C610, University of Lethbridge Serving the GLBTQS community in Banff, Canmore, Canadian Rainbow Health Coalition  11528 - 89th Street  Thurs, Mar 26th, 6:30pm Lake Louise and Area.  P.O. Box 3043, Saskatoon, SK, S7K 3S9  (780) 474-0413 Movie called “Changing Our Minds: The Story of Dr. • Potluck Dinner  (306) 955-5135  [email protected] Evelyn Hooker”.  McKillop United Church (2329 - 15 Ave S)  1-800-955-5129  http://www.rodeodrive.ca • New Queer Cinema  April 26th, 8pm  http://www.rainbowhealth.ca His and hers fetish wear, toys, jewelry, etc.  Bowman Arts Centre (811 - 5 Ave S) In Lethbridge. Egale Canada Wares & Wear Ventures Inc.  Thurs, April 2nd, 7pm • Coffee Night  8 Wellington St E, Third Floor See Canada - Retail Stores. Showing the movie “Zero Patience“. Films are free  The Hub, 302 Buffalo Street but donations are requested. Toronto, Ontario, M5E 1C5  See website for details.  1-888-204-7777  www.egale.ca Services Gay & Lesbian Integrity Assoc. (GALIA) Egale Canada is the national advocacy and lobby Cruiseline  University of Lethbridge  [email protected] organization for gay men, lesbians, bisexuals,  (780) 413-7122 trial code 3500 LETHBRIDGE GBLTTQQ club on campus. trans-identified people and our families.  http://www.cruiseline.ca Membership fees are pay-what-you-can, although Telephone classifieds and chat - 18+ ONLY. Community Groups pre-authorized monthly donors are encouraged (and Robertson-Wesley United Church GALA/LA RED DEER get a free Egale Canada t-shirt). Egale has several committees that meet by teleconference on a  10209 - 123 St. NW  (780) 482-1587  (403) 308-2893 regular basis; membership on these is national with  [email protected]  www.rwuc.org  www.newgaylethbridge.ca Community Groups  Worship: Sunday mornings at 10:30am Gay and Lesbian Alliance of Lethbridge and Area. Affirm members from every region of Canada. People of all sexual orientations welcome. Other  Sunnybrook United Church • Monthly Dances LGBT events include a monthly book club and  (403) 347-6073 Retail Stores  Airforce Veterans Hall, 517 - 5 Ave S a bi-monthly film night. As a caring spiritual  2nd Tuesday of the month, 7pm  2nd or 3rd Saturday every month, 9pm-2am Wares & Wear Ventures Inc. community, we’d love to have you join us! Composed of LGBTQ people, their friends, family Apr 18, and May 23  (780) 980-1977  www.wwlatex.com and allies. No religious affiliation necessary. • Soul OUTing Bring your membership card and photo ID. Fetish wear and toys.  Second Sunday every month, 7pm Activities include support, faith and social justice • Monthly Potluck Dinners An LGBT-focused alternative worship. discussions, film nights, and potlucks! Services  McKillop United Church, 2329 - 15 Ave S • Film Night  3rd or Last Sat. every month, 5:30pm-8pm ATM Service Solutions  Bi-monthly, contact us for exact dates. Apr 26, May 31  1-866-640-8830 ALBERTA  [email protected] • Book Club Members/family/friends, and children are all  http://www.minibanks.net  Monthly, contact us for exact dates. welcome to attend. Please bring dish that will serve Community Groups 4-6 people and own beverage (no-alcohol). Plates, Squirt YouthSafe utensils, and coffee provided.  http://www.squirt.org Theatre and Fine Arts  http://www.youthsafe.net Website for dating and hook-ups. 18+ ONLY! Exposure Festival • Support Line Alberta’s website for youth with sex-and-gender  http://www.exposurefestival.ca  (403) 308-2893 differences. Youthsafe.net lists the resources, Theatre and Fine Arts Edmonton’s Queer Arts and Culture Festival.  Monday OR Wednesday, 7pm-11pm information and services to help youth find safe and Leave a message any other time. caring spaces in Alberta. Broadway Across Canada • Parents & Friends for Lesbians & Gays  http://www.broadwayacrosscanada.ca Call us for information. Theatre and Fine Arts OUTtv Alberta Ballet  http://www.outtv.ca  http://www.albertaballet.com GLBT Television Station. Frequent productions in Calgary and Edmonton.

22 GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine #66, April 2009 Politics A Conflict of Rights How Much Say Should Parents Have In School Curriculum

I don’t know whether or not the level of experimentation is as high By Stephen Lock amongst teenage girls as it is amongst boys. I can only speak from my own experience and when I was a young teenager it was not all that I have difficulty understanding the continuing lack of unusual for guys to “mess around” a bit with a buddy or two. It didn’t mean anything, at least not to those who were actually heterosexual. political will to have “sexual orientation” specifically For me as a budding young queer it often did, on the rare occasion I was included in our provincial human rights legislation. It included in such experimentation. There was usually an emotional quo- should have occurred years ago, and didn’t. Gay and tient to it that my heterosexual buddies simply didn’t have. But that’s a whole other topic.... lesbian groups started lobbying the provincial government to have it included in the legislation in the early I happen to believe that discussing homosexuality, and doing some education around the discrimination faced by lesbians, gay men, bisexu- 1980’s, with no success. als and transsexuals (even though transsexuality has nothing to do with Following the 1997 Vriend Decision by the Supreme Court of Canada, sexual orientation issues and is only politically related) is important. sexual orientation should have been not just “read into” the act (not a To me, it is no different than, say, discussing anti-Semitism, racism or bad first step, but not what was needed) but actually included, along sexism. with other protected characteristics. That the Government of Alberta Some years ago, when I was involved with Gay Lines Calgary (the in- has continued to drag its heels on this issue for a further 12 years is formation and peer-counselling service that eventually became the Gay shameful. and Lesbian Community Services Association and today Calgary Outlink) If Lindsay Blackett, the Minister of Culture and Community Spirit, and AIDS Calgary, I was sometimes called upon to speak to high school under whose administration falls the Alberta Human Rights and Citizen- classes. I enjoyed giving such talks and answering questions from ship Commission and the Human Rights, Citizenship and Multiculturalism students. Did I instruct them on how to perform homosexual acts? Of Act (formerly known as the Individual Rights Protection Act), is successful course not. in finally including sexual orientation as a protected characteristic then If I was speaking on behalf of AIDS Calgary (which I co-founded and there appears there will be a backlash from “concerned parents.” was originally a board member then later a department coordinator) The involvement of parents in their offsprings’ lives is not something homosexuality wasn’t the focus anyway, safer sex was. I made sure one wants to mess with and nobody, least of all the GLBTQ community, the talk included all aspects of safer sex practices but also made sure is suggesting otherwise. Clearly, it is the parents who should decide the information was included in a natural, inclusive matter-of-course what values, mores and views are imparted to their children; that is the manner. I didn’t dwell on anal sex - and the school was usually quite responsibility that goes with being a parent and is easily accomplished concerned about such references anyway - but on how to protect oneself within the home and within the framework of the family. against the transmission of HIV, regardless of what sex act an individual was involved in. But is there a line? Do parents have the right, if that is the correct word, to demand schools not teach their offspring information that may, When speaking about being homosexual I focussed on the social/ or actually does, run contrary to their own view? cultural/political/day-to-day aspect of being part of a minority facing discrimination and attempted to dispel various myths about homo- Offhand, the answer would appear to be simple. But, like everything sexuality. The Q&A aspect was something I valued and the questions else in life, the answers are anything but simple or straightforward. were almost always respectful; the students were interested in what What we have here is a conflict of rights and in such instances there are my experiences as a homosexual were like, not in what my homosexual no simple answers. experiences were. Which is as it should be.

The latest controversy around parental rights centres on whether I was frequently surprised by the level of sophistication the questions or not parents can withdraw or disallow their child to be “exposed” to had. Talk about having pre-formed ideas. Some of the questions were information about certain aspects of sexuality, sexual orientation issues, naive, sure, but many of them revealed a fairly good understanding that or evolution versus (so-called) Intelligent Design/Creationism. homosexuality was simply another way of being, and that homosexuality wasn’t contagious. A few students believed homosexuality was “wrong.” The reaction against their child being “taught homosexuality”, for When challenged on why or in what way, they almost invariably fell instance, is based on the erroneous and rather bizarre notion that any back on a rather typical teenage response of “because it just is...it’s not affirmative information about homosexuality will lead to the child some- normal.” how becoming gay or lesbian themselves. That wouldn’t be a bad thing, but of course it is in the eyes of such individuals. What is normal? I’d ask. Not so much to undermine their values, or what they thought were their values (but were, I suspected, more their This is never stated outright. Instead, code words are used; “taught parents’ values), but to get them to think critically. If by normal they homosexuality” which suggests some sort of instruction in the actual meant what the majority does or believes or thinks, then sure. In that mechanics of homosexual sex or that teachers can, by simply discuss- instance, having red-hair or being left-handed isn’t “normal” either. But ing homosexuality in a classroom setting, somehow create a homo- if by something not being normal they meant being abnormal, then we sexual out of a formerly heterosexual individual. Certainly lesbians needed to explore that. and, more specifically, gay men have been accused of doing exactly that for years...”recruitment,” “seduction,” “corrupting youth,” “having an As far as I was concerned, they were free to believe whatever they agenda”; the list goes on. wanted to, as long as it was based on facts and not on prejudice or mis- information. If the thought of two guys, or two women, being intimate A big fear, apparently, is the “normalizing” of homosexuality. Again, grossed them out, so be it. To be honest, the idea of vaginas kind of suggesting that if kids view homosexuality as normal, as simply a part grosses me out, so there ya go. Most gay men are grossed out by female of a whole spectrum of sexual expression humans experience - it is a genitalia, and that’s fine. Where it becomes not fine is when that -am spectrum, by the way - that this will lead, at the very least, to experi- bivalence or even antipathy spills over into discrimination and outright mentation if not actually “converting” their offspring. attack. The students got that. It’s a shame their parents sometimes Well, first off most youths “experiment.” It is not unusual for two can’t. teenage boys, for instance, to give mutual masturbation a whirl or even oral sex. Some might go so far as to try anal sex with a buddy, but that is rare.

GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine #66, April 2009 23 Political Humour Creep of the Week Pope Benedict XVI

Sure, he could come right out and say that. But it’s a lot By D’Anne Witkowski easier to blame condoms. To tell the people of Africa to stop having sex is to tell them to stop engaging in a basic, normal You know what Africans love? AIDS. Getting it, human function. Condoms, on the other hand, are not a basic, spreading it - doesn’t matter. It’s their favorite thing. normal human function. They’re an artificial barrier between I mean, it must be, right? Because why else would you and disease and pregnancy. They don’t make anyone have sex - something anti-sex crusaders seem to forget. the HIV/AIDS rate be so high over there? It can’t possibly have anything to do with things like eco- The pope’s anti-condom comments were renounced world- nomic conditions and access to prevention educa- wide. tion and condoms. “Condoms save lives,” Germany’s health ministers said according to The Guardian. “Modern assistance to the developing Just ask Pope Benedict XVI, who denounced condoms dur- world today must make access to family planning available to ing a visit to Africa earlier this month. the poorest of the poor especially the use of condoms. Any- According to The Guardian, the pope said that AIDS “cannot thing else would be irresponsible.” be overcome with the distribution of condoms which, on the These are, after all, human lives, not papal window dress- contrary, increase the problem.” ings. Someone needs to remind the pope. Realizing after the fact that this made him sound like an D’Anne Witkowski has been gay for pay since 2003. She’s a freelance asshole, the Vatican’s revised Pope B’s statement, which writer and poet (believe it!). When she’s not taking on the creeps of the became, “The scourge cannot be resolved with the distribution world she reviews rock and roll shows in Detroit with her twin sister and of prophylactics; on the contrary, the risk is of increasing the teaches writing at the University of Michigan. problem.” While this softens his message, it doesn’t make it any less ignorant. “Did the pope not know when he arrived in Cameroon that HIV-positive people represent a large proportion of the population?” Alain Fogue, an AIDS activist in the region, told The Guardian. “The people will not follow what the pope is saying,” Fogue added. “He lives in heaven and we are on earth. Whether he likes it or not, 99 out of 100 Catholics use the condom today. The pope has to know that the flesh is weak.” Indeed it is. Perhaps where the pope lives everyone abstains from sex before marriage and then, after getting married, has sex only to produce children and never has sex with anyone else ever, but that’s not the world we live in. The pope is a bit out of touch, to say the least. But then, that seems to be part of the job description. The fact is, monogamy is hard work and not everyone suc- ceeds. Abstinence, too, is hard work for those striving for it. To condemn these people to a death sentence by denying them condoms (or just telling them not to use them) is criminal. Rebecca Hodes of the Treatment Action Campaign in South Africa told the Associated Press that the pope’s “opposition to condoms conveys that religious dogma is more important to him than the lives of Africans.” And if religious dogma is more important to you than pro- tecting and saving lives, then what kind of man of God are you, sir? To say that condoms are part of the problem is not only ignorant, it’s also dishonest. Because even the pope knows that condoms don’t spread AIDS. Sex does. And the pope no likey sex.

24 GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine #66, April 2009 Astrology Q Scopes “Embrace competition, Sagittarius!”

By Jack Fertig LIBRA (September 23 - October 22): Arguments with your partner can stimulate playful The Sun is aligned with Eris focusing our attention or creative juices. A little competitive spirit is also on our alliances and group identifications. Aspects stimulating. A little! Pushing too hard can lead you into from Mars and Jupiter make us eager to protect the accidents. Trust your first hunches at work. group and expand its influence. Rather than assum-  ing your side is somehow more correct or better than SCORPIO (October 23 - November 21): If others, do what you can to make your side better. your co-workers feel like “family” that bond could be much strengthened by after-hours fun. If you prefer to keep the ARIES (March 20 - April 19): Social demands concepts separate, it may be hard to resist the pressure. are a sign of your popularity, but conflicting invitations Keeping boundaries up politely can be a challenge! may force uncomfortable declarations of where you stand and with whom. Think ahead and meditate a bit before choosing sides. You could even find a reconciliatory SAGITTARIUS (November 22 - December solution. 20): If your favorite team isn’t the home team you could get into some very loud arguments, ultimately more fun than serious. Embrace competition as a spur to creativity. TAURUS (April 20 - May 20): Your contributions Yeah, that’s not you, but now it works! to a party will make you a much-valued guest, boosting  your social and professional reputation. Do they love you for what you bring or for who you are? Darling, empty- CAPRICORN (December 21 - January handed is so not you!  19): Hometown/community pride can lead to misunderstandings that end up being very revealing. Allow the confusion to play out and unfold. What you stand to GEMINI (May 21 - June 20): Trying too hard to learn will be spiritually valuable at least, and perhaps even prove a point can leave you dangling on a limb looking financially profitable.  lost. Let the argument develop, and listen politely, if not entirely agreeably. As your position gets clearer you could be very surprised at where you finally stand. AQUARIUS (January 20 - February 18):  Sibling rivalry heats up, and it needn’t be a birth- family “sibling.” As long as money’s not involved (Google CANCER (June 21 - July 22): Strutting your “potlatch”), the competition can help bring you to your stuff could put you in competition with your superiors. best. Take time out to keep perspective; remember what, That could mean a promotion. Be certain that you want and who, really matter in your life. the boost you’re offered, and be very clear who your allies  and supporters are.  PISCES (February 19 - March 19): Long meditative walks, jogging, or swimming – even vigorous LEO (July 23 - August 22): Sure, you can always dancing – will help you burn off the energy that has you stand up for yourself, but you’ll do a lot better if you let running in circles. Better yet, focus it on thinking how you someone give you a hand. Cooperation will prove very sexy can be more competitive in your field, and how better to opening doors you hardly knew were there. save money.  VIRGO (August 23 - September 22): You’re a lot sexier than you realize, and may be seen as flirting even when that’s not your intent. Be careful with that at work! Jack Fertig, a professional astrologer since That can cause confusion that affects your relationship, or 1977 teaches at the Online College of helps you start one.  Astrology : http://www.astrocollege.com. He can be reached for personal or business consultations at 415-864-8302 or through his website at http://www.starjack.com

GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine #66, April 2009 25 Review Adult Film Review Funhouse, Muscle Mountain

“Cowboys never get it so good in John Tegan’s tale of a 21st By Jerome Voltero century ranch where nine muscled ranchers set aside chores in the western sun for hot “Funhouse” by play in the barnyard hay. Titan Media Watch as rivalries fade, love blooms in unexpect- Courtesy of Priape ed places and everyone gets their man!” Cast: Eric Moreau, Francois Sagat*, Alex The opening scene Baresi*, Tony Buff, shows the ranch owner Eduardo*, Dean Flynn, working up a sweat chop- Derek da Silva, Bjoern ping a meagre amount Giger*, Rocky Torrez*, of wood. Rival rancher Ethan Anders*, Josh Lucky approaches to West*. bellyache to his neigh- bour for some lame Ethan Anders and reason. But the ranch Eduardo are walking owner warns Lucky that the streets together at he’s been spotted in the night when they come bushes, watching the across a curious sight in ranch hands and doing an alley – the entrance “god knows what” to to a Funhouse, with a himself. Before running muscular masked man off cursing, Lucky makes such a badly acted plea in response beckoning them forward. Little do they know, they’re in for the that it’s laughable. “ride” of their lives. Meanwhile we start to understand exactly what Lucky has This isn’t your standard suck-n-fuck porno. There are some been watching so avidly. It’s not that he’s a pervert so much as very racy themes with strong fetish influences. For example, the boys on the ranch are all putting on a riveting show! They many of the actors wear masks and dress in latex getups, with can’t even finish cooking breakfast before some knob gobbling the ringmaster even wearing a fishnet body suit! breaks out – bacon and eggs be damned (to a crisp)! The first scene with Eric Moreau and Dean Flynn is reminis- The ranch owner himself isn’t above getting involved. In the cent of a two-man acrobatics show gone dirty. Moreau displays final scene, he and Lucky literally go for a roll in the hay. his flexibility with some interesting contortions, as Flynn has at him. Flynn is usually a hairy guy, but for the part he has Priape Calgary shaved his body. Canada’s Favourite Gay Store 1322 17th Avenue SW - (403) 215-1800 The wrestling scene was particularly hot, with three muscular guys in masks rolling around on the mat. The wrestlers Adult Depot that get called out to the penalty bench receive a unique pun- Over 3000 Gay Title for Sale or Rent ishment from the referee (Tony Buff) – a dildo forced into them, 140 58th Avenue SW - (403) 258-2777 that they must leave in while they continue to wrestle. When [email protected] the masks finally come off, we see these men are the sexy Josh West, Rocky Torrez, and Derek da Silva. The match is over, but the playing has just begun! The ride takes Anders and Eduardo through 2 more exhibits before ringmaster Francois Sagat kidnaps them for some action of their own. Wow...if only they had something like this at the Calgary Stampede! (Or CapitalEx, for Edmontonians.) “Muscle Mountain” by Jet Set Men Courtesy of Adult Depot Cast: Derec Stone, Marcus Steele, David Dakota, Chris Thomas, Jeremy Bilding, Jason Pitt, Derrek Diamond, Patrick Bateman, Lucky Daniels. As much as “Funhouse” was for those who like hairy men, “Muscle Mountain” is for those who like pretty boys with ath- letic builds.

26 GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine #66, April 2009 Community Spotlight Pride Calgary 2009 The Year So Far

50/50 draws or been kind enough to purchase a $5.00 Pride By Dallas Barnes membership. It is with these countless efforts by each member of our volunteer Board that we have been able to pay for our “We were born to unite with our fellow men, and to outstanding City of Calgary debt. join in community with the human race.” - Cicero Going forward, we have many more expenses to overcome. Back in November 2008, a group of eleven individuals came The bottom line is that Pride Calgary 2009 will not happen together to form the Pride Calgary Planning Committee, an or- without Sponsorship and Community support. ganization dedicated to the planning and implementation of the Pride 2009 festival. In taking on this challenge, the new Board To run Pride, it costs approximately $12,000. On top of all of Directors had a legacy of 19 past Pride celebrations in Cal- the City Permits and insurance, we need to get, we also need gary to live up to. Being one of these Board members, I, along to rent tents and tables, pay for security and Police, buy the with the remaining 10 volunteers on the Board threw ourselves alcohol for the Beer Gardens, pay for the sound equipment, and into the task at hand. for a facility to hold our Pride Dance. There is currently about No sooner than we began planning the next year’s fund- $20.00 in our bank account and eleven Board members are raising and events did we learn that we still owed the City of working tirelessly everyday to find sponsors and plan fundrais- Calgary about $2600 from outstanding permits from last year’s ing events. Pride celebrations. This outstanding debt had been virtually Sam Casselman, President of the Pride Calgary Planning ignored by previous Pride Chairpersons and Treasurers, and Committee is concerned about Pride’s financial state. “If the knowledge of it was never passed along to the current Board. community as a whole is not going to pitch in, Pride will not In order to be permitted to have an actual Pride Celebration happen this year.” It is after all an event that supports and cel- this year we needed to pay off our outstanding debt as soon as ebrates the community. “If everyone in the community donated possible. With only a few dollars in our bank account, we had $5.00 or more to our organization, we could spend more time a major issue. on planning the events, rather than working on how we are go- To add insult to injury, we had more financial issues ahead. ing to pay for it.” To combat our outstanding debt, we were made aware that By moving Pride to the September long weekend, among there were numerous grants available to non-profit Society’s in other considerations, we are giving some more time for fund- Alberta. To our dismay, we soon discovered that Pride Calgary raising efforts. We are also promoting Calgary as the city to be was no longer registered as a society, let alone a non-profit at for the long weekend, so we chose a weekend when Calgar- organization. So the Board had to rectify this and become a ians wouldn’t be travelling to other cities to enjoy their own properly registered Society in order to gain non-profit status, to large and upscale Pride celebrations. Why can’t Calgary also allow us to apply for these grants. Not only that, the ability to become a major Pride destination? As Sam says, “If we all came give Charitable Donation receipts to our sponsors was a major together it would be a Pride worth travelling to.” selling point for us to secure sponsorship. A couple of hundred dollars later we applied and are still waiting on confirmation. As Cicero says, “we are born to unite with our fellow men.” Calgary’s GLBT community is strong, albeit divided. Coming So, the question remained at that point, how are we going to together is the only way to make Pride happen. make Pride happen this year when we are beginning the year in the red? For the past three months you may have noticed con- Throughout the new Board’s five months of operation, we stant Facebook messages from the Pride Calgary group asking have attempted to reach out to each part of the community. The for Sponsorship and inviting you to fundraising events. If you amount of enthusiasm, concern, and pride amongst everyone frequent Money Pennies you may have taken part in our weekly is tremendous. We all want the same things - recognition, and a home to be proud of. Let’s come together as a cohesive community to make Pride happen this year. The economic situation is tough, and money is hard to part with. We are not asking for much. We are asking for cash of course, however we are also asking for products and services for our Silent Auctions, in- kind donations, and asking you to spread the word. Please check out the Pride Calgary Planning Committee’s website, www.pridecalgary.ca to see how you can help.

Pride Calgary Planning Committee  (403) 797-6564  [email protected]  www.pridecalgary.ca

GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine #66, April 2009 27 Celebrity Gossip Deep Inside Hollywood Heathers

By Romeo San Vicente Sopranos creator chronicles Hollywood The Sopranos will probably rank among TV’s greatest – even Heathers hopes to kill on Broadway if the show’s enigmatic finale gaveThe L Word permission to go totally bonkers and resolution-free in its last season – so it’s Twenty years after the theatrical release of Heathers, there exciting to hear news about a new project from David Chase, hasn’t been another teen movie quite like it. Its unique combi- who created that mob saga for HBO. Even more thrilling is the nation of coal-black satirical comedy, color-coded characters fact that it’s a miniseries about the history of Hollywood, with and quotable dialogue has made it a gay fave since its debut. fictional characters rubbing elbows with the likes of Bette Davis So now get ready for a catchy tune called “I Love My Dead Gay and D.W. Griffith.A Ribbon of Dreams explores the magic and Son,” because Heathers is headed for Broadway. Reefer Madness mayhem of the movie business all the way from 1913 to the creators Andy Fickman and Larry O’Keefe are collaborating with present day – which all but guarantees a healthy heaping of the Legally Blonde composer Larry O’Keefe for an all-singing, all- gays and lesbians without whom Tinseltown wouldn’t even exist. dancing, all-fake-teen-suicide show that’s set to open regionally No word yet on when the show will air, but Romeo is already in 2010, with a run slated for the Great White Way if Heathers setting his TiVo and taking odds on who’ll play Davis and other opens successfully out of town. Kristen Bell (Veronica Mars, For- old-school queer icons like Joan Crawford, Marlene Dietrich and getting Sarah Marshall) recently starred in a workshop reading of Judy Garland. the show, but there’s no guarantee she’s committed to slay her way through the eventual production. Sandra Bernhard and friends remember Lenny Bruce You haven’t seen this many comedians in one movie since The Aristocrats, but director Elan Gale has put together an extraordinary lineup of interviewees for Looking for Lenny, a movie that explores the cultural, comic and legal legacy of the legendary Lenny Bruce. Lesbian comedy goddess Sandra Bernhard caught Romeo’s attention, but look who else is in the movie: Roseanne, Phyllis Diller, Jon Lovitz, Lewis Black, Jeffrey Ross, Christopher Titus, Lisa Lampanelli, Mort Sahl and Andy Kindler, to name a few, and that’s not even counting non-comics like Joe Mantegna and Henry Rollins. Looking for Lenny is slated for a 2009 release, so if you’re a fan of controversial comedy, start keeping an eye peeled for it at a film festival or arthouse near you. Romeo San Vicente’s read Lenny Bruce’s How to Talk Dirty and Influence People and mastered both skills quickly.

Mischa Barton’s model behavior If America’s Next Top Model and Make Me a Supermodel have taught us anything – besides how to smile with our eyes, that is – it’s that you can’t assemble a house full of models without at least a little bit of queer sizzle on top of the vanity, bitchiness and catfights. So that’s why Romeo is excited aboutA Beautiful Life, a new CW pilot from producer (and former model) Ashton Kutcher. The show revolves around a group of extra-young man- nequins of both sexes sharing a residence in New York City, with The O.C.’s Mischa Barton starring as a supermodel doing everything she can to stay on top of her game. Given Barton’s current off-camera job as one of GoFugYourself.com’s favorite fashion victims, it’s fitting that she’ll play a runway queen. But will she style herself for the show? Will there be rioting in the streets, Top Model audition-style, when it debuts? Will its possible success mean the onset of the size 000? Details as they emerge.

28 GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine #66, April 2009 Lifestyle Cocktail Chatter A Drink By Any Other Name and Making Your Own Mixers

By Camper English Making Your Own Mixers Today’s nightclub bartenders can mix most of their drinks A Drink By Any Other Name in a few seconds with one bottle, one squeeze of the cocktail gun, and one slice of pre-cut dried-out lime, but an increasing Even if I enjoyed having a Sex on the Beach (the drink), I number of mixological enthusiasts are starting to party like would probably feel too embarrassed to order one in public. it’s 1899. Way back when, there were no sour mixes and no Luckily my aversion to peach schnapps precludes me from ask- Daiquiris-in-a-can and no sodium benzoate in the maraschino ing the bartender for a cocktail named after an uncomfortable cherries. Bartenders of old had to soak, boil, preserve, pickle, erotic act. Seriously, have you tried it? clarify, juice, squeeze, and otherwise make their own mixers and other ingredients in cocktails. Bartenders of new are get- The Sex on the Beach was popular in the vodka-schnapps ting into it too. drink era of the 1980’s, as were cutesy-sexy cocktail names you never wanted to hear your parents order. We had the Fuzzy My cocktail nerd friends are judgmental and cruel, which is Navel, the Freddy Fudpucker, and the Slow Comfortable Screw. why I like them, and they’re now at the stage where they must Sadly, these drinks seem almost quaint now as many cocktail outdo each other with the most labor-intensive, time-consum- names have become downright dirty. One online drink database ing, completely unnecessary ingredients and techniques. “So lists 327 drinks with the word ‘sex’ in the name, and there are I see you’re using store-bought triple sec,” they’ll say. “How probably seven cocktails named for every position in the Kama pedestrian.” Sutra. The descent into this impressive obsessive behavior that ends Luckily, not many of these drinks make it into popular circu- in barrel aging homemade bitters in the basement and ordering lation, and the ones that do are generally served in nightclubs Peruvian cinchona tree bark off the internet for fresh-brewed where commanding the bartender to give you a Reverse Cowgirl tonic water usually begins simply enough, and usually with ends well whether it’s served in a glass or in the back of the simple syrup. That’s just sugar and water mixed together. Add coat check room. the syrup to some fresh lemon and/or lime juice and you’ve not only got homemade sour mix, you’ve got the ingredients Overly cute cocktail names are only slightly better. One bar- to make basic vodka or gin Gimlets, Whiskey Sours, Lemon tender friend makes every drink a ridiculous pun that makes Drops, Daiquiris, and other drinks. Not bad for two fruits and you feel like a fool for requesting. The worst was the Cardamom sugar. My Dearest. (If you don’t get that reference you may not be this publication’s target audience.) The next phase begins when you look through gourmet cocktail books (the kind that list a couple hundred recipes instead Some drinks have the wrong name entirely, which only both- of a couple thousand) and realize how many other flavored syr- ers cocktail dorks like me. I get huffy when cocktails are called ups you can make at home with fruits like pineapple, herbs like a flavor of Martini- Chocolate Martini, Apple Martini, Orange thyme, pomegranate for grenadine, and ginger for homemade Martini, whatever. I have a theory that this naming schema was ginger ale. Then it’s on to fancy garnishes like smoked salt rims popularized during the late 1990’s dot-com boom when every and real maraschino or brandied cherries. job title changed to superlative like ‘diva’ or ‘guru’ whether or not they were deserved. You had the mailroom guru and the A quick search of the internet will quickly drive you nuts, accounts payable diva getting together for a Death by Chocolate as you realize there are hundreds of other things you could be Martini. making like liqueurs, tinctures, and a zillion types of bitters. You may find yourself brining your own olives (a process that These not-really Martinis are usually vodka plus a flavored takes weeks and can involve dangerous chemicals), stuffing liqueur with a splash of fruit juice and a slathering of sugar on them with gourmet (organic, local) cheese, and dropping them the rim, so I suppose they do belong in the same category as into a Martini stirred with homemade vermouth. each other - just not, in my opinion, in the Martini category. Next thing you know, you’re digging up the yard to plant gar- When I create cocktails, which is more often than I’ll admit in nish. I live in California, so I am able to utilize my lemon tree polite company, I try to name them sensibly so I can remem- for limoncello, plant mint in the yard (caution: it takes over) for ber what’s in them the next day. I’ll make a Strawberry Mojito Juleps, and harvest my Chia Herb Garden to make basil and or a Fizzy Lemon Daiquiri and be done with it. But if my new cilantro Gimlets. I think globally, and drink locally. drink doesn’t closely resemble another one, I’ll try to use an acronym for the ingredients - like the COP with cognac, orange One talented bartender friend of mine won an international liqueur, and pear. The problem with the Sex on the Beach is cocktail contest with his version of a berry Shrub, an Ameri- that its ingredients - vodka, orange juice, peach schnapps, and can Colonial era drink that involves soaking fruit and spices in cranberry - don’t spell a word no matter how you arrange the vinegar and salt for two weeks. (It tastes much better than it letters VOPC. sounds.) I offered him my congratulations on winning the contest and said, “So I see you’re using store-bought vinegar.” Then again, neither does LGBT, and we all know what the ingredients are in that. Maybe we should consider re-branding Camper English is a cocktails and spirits writer and publisher of ourselves like an easy-to-pronounce drink instead - it could be Alcademics.com. a great PR move. People will whisper, “Is it true that he’s really Pink Delicious?”

GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine #66, April 2009 29 Community Spotlight A Different Way of Giving Twisted Element and AIDS Calgary Forge a Unique Giving Opportunity

our sponsors, donors, and community partners,” says Susan Cress, By Rob Diaz-Marino Executive Director of AIDS Calgary.

In the past, several non-profit groups have held fundraisers at the Last month Calgary was wowed by the announcement Twisted Element with limited success. In some cases, the owners of Twisted Element’s generous pledge of $50,000 to- have felt compelled to double, or at least boost the totals by contribut- ward AIDS Calgary’s “Everyone, Everywhere, Every- ing money from drink sales, door cover, or coat check – money that would otherwise go toward their profits (“out of their own pockets”). day” campaign. In the midst of an economic reces- Though the owners have tried to push these groups to invent new sion, the gesture was astounding for how suddenly ways of fundraising to captivate their younger clientele, many have and effortlessly it appeared to come about. However not been successful in breaking out of their fundraising moulds. to say it was effortless might be unkind, considering Community politics has also played a role in the willingness of organizations to work with the bar. the large amount of work that went into this project, both on the part of AIDS Calgary and the Twisted Ele- However, this string of zeroes has dangled a juicy carrot in the faces of many non-profit groups, and we are told that the owners ment. As much as the wow factor is great for public- are definitely not shy to bring it up in conversation. The question ity, a donation of this size doesn’t happen overnight. is whether their commitment to AIDS Calgary will exhaust their fundraising potential for the next year, or whether they have plans In fact, the relationship was a year in the making, and will take to expand their efforts to benefit other groups too. Realistically, another year before the contract is fulfilled. In a press release, AIDS however, no organization can expect Twisted Element to dish out 50 Calgary stated, “In May of 2008, RJ and Cliff attended an AIDS Cal- grand at the drop of a hat. While the bar can be “part of a [fundrais- gary Open House that provided the spark of what has flamed into a er’s] complete breakfast” so to speak, it would be folly for non-profit strong relationship and a major giving opportunity.” groups to get dazzled into abandoning their involvement with other The cheque presentation ceremony at the Twisted Element in viable venues. February featured a placard cheque for $50,000, symbolizing their two-year pledge. According to AIDS Calgary, $25,000 was given to What makes the Twisted Element’s strategy different them that night, with the guarantee of another $25,000 to be given in the next fiscal year. AIDS Calgary Communications Analyst, Amanda is that a final amount has been guaranteed in Chapman, explained that this sort of arrangement isn’t uncommon in advance, all toward a single cause. The certainty of the world of fundraising to secure larger donations; larger contribu- future funding from donors like the Twisted Element tions are often spread out, sometimes over the course of up to 5 enables AIDS Calgary to plan further ahead. years. In fact, staggering payments over time can be more beneficial than a single, large lump sum, because it adds an element of stability to the group’s income How will Twisted Element comprise the remaining $25,000 over However, this sort of arrangement is certainly a new one for the course of the next year? AIDS Calgary says that the logistics Calgary’s gay community, at least in recent history. Fundraising are entirely out of their hands – it is the club’s duty to arrange this. organizations like the ISCCA and ISCWR set a fundraising goal for the There are many ways that the bar owners may go about it, but we can year and do their best to reach it (and of course, are not opposed to only speculate at this point. They may hold special events to generate going beyond). Many of the gay bars offer their venues to non-profit the needed funds through their business, but Cress believes that a groups for fundraising events, and in some cases organize their own substantial amount is also coming from the bar owners personally. events – but once again, no guarantee is made on the final amounts. To put things into context, all of this praise is not to diminish the In both cases, fundraising endeavours are divvied up amongst a fundraising efforts of the other gay bars; for their relative size, they number of different charities, so no single organization receives quite can pack quite a punch. Just recently, the friends and family of as impressive an amount. Sandra Casey were able to raise just under $27,000 at Money Pen- “In the early eighties it was the gay community that rallied to take nies over the course of a mere two weeks! Fundraising at bars like action to the epidemic,” says club owner RJ Fafard. AIDS Calgary Money Pennies, the Calgary Eagle, the Texas Lounge, and the Backlot and sub-programs like HEAT are already grateful to receive dona- are practically a monthly routine. With the help of these bars alone, tions from the hard work of businesses and non-profit groups within this year the ISCCA estimates it will not be too far off from Dyna and the GLBT community to fund their continued operation. But, what Wolfgang’s record breaking $40,000 reign. In addition, groups like makes the Twisted Element’s strategy different is that a final amount the SHARP Foundation, HIV Peer Support Group, and the Children’s has been guaranteed in advance, all toward a single cause. The cer- Wish Foundation continue to receive donations through these venues. tainty of future funding from donors like the Twisted Element enables These smaller donations add up to impressive amounts, but bar own- AIDS Calgary to plan further ahead. ers see the act of giving reward enough.

In fact, the goal of AIDS Calgary’s “Everyone, Everywhere, Every- In the end, it’s not a competition to see who can outdo everyone day” campaign is to raise a total of $1,000,000 over the next two else. It’s about everyone in a position to help, doing their part to as- years – to raise funds for prevention and education activities, enhanc- sist those in need. This arrangement between AIDS Calgary and the ing the quality of life for people living with HIV/AIDS, and address- Twisted Element/RJ and Cliff accomplishes exactly that, and kudos ing stigma and discrimination in the community. Twisted Element’s to both for thinking outside of the box! donation helped kick off the campaign last month, and already AIDS Says Fafard, “It is our moral responsibility and duty to support Calgary reports that the agency has received over $100,000 cash, AIDS Calgary.” with more cash pledged across the timeframe of the initiative. Editor’s Note: Contrary to reported rumours emerging even before this piece was “Recent donations to AIDS Calgary, such as the one from Twisted published, this article was written with the full cooperation of AIDS Calgary. Element club owners RJ and Cliff, enable us to do our important work in the community. AIDS Calgary is grateful for the support of all

30 GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine #66, April 2009 Health Advice Fear, Stigma and Discrimination replaced with Hope 2009 Alberta Positive Voices Conference Huge Success!

sponsors who supported this project without hesitation and with By Mark Randall open hearts. If you could see the impact it has had on the lives of those who attended, you would know the value of your kindness I have always been a huge advocate for Peer Based could not be measured in any greater success. Support Services and Systems when it comes to Finally I have to thank the organizing committee, our host organi- supporting Persons Living with, affected by or at risk zation AIDS Calgary, the Alberta Community Council on HIV, our for HIV/AIDS. There is no better connection than event coordinator and last but not least the individuals living with HIV and their partners who attended for having the courage to come speaking with someone who is already infected or and be part of something bigger for us all to share, grow and learn affected by a disease that has impacted them for from. the first time. HIV/AIDS has long been the target Overall I think the weekend created an atmosphere of hope for of stigma and discrimination from every possible many who attended: hope that there is a future in living with HIV/ avenue including ones you think would be more AIDS, hope that there are current medications and newer ones in development, hope that that there are others we can connect to and sensitive to the reality of the matter after all these support with our needs and fears in living with HIV/AIDS. years of education. The conference was living proof of what the world could be like I have witnessed and heard the many stories from people living without the fear, stigma and discrimination that impacts the lives of with HIV and AIDS about how they have been directly and indirectly persons with HIV/AIDS and those who love and support them. discriminated against by health care professionals (doctors, nurses, dentist, social workers), their employers and fellow staff, family, I am forever proud and deeply humbled by you all. friends and sadly even our own government officials. If you have questions or concerns about living with HIV/AIDS, assisting those The gay community also has a dark side when it comes to sup- living with HIV/AIDS or you have ideas and suggestions for future articles related porting and not judging our own and others who are living with to HIV/AIDS please forward them to [email protected]. HIV/AIDS; proven to me time and again when I am out in the clubs and hear the people gossip (whether true or not) about other people’s possible HIV status even when they have no way of confirming their statements. I am fortunate to be out and without fear about my own status; however there are far more who do not feel comfortable or safe about disclosing their status for fear of the well known and often proven reactions of others to that disclosure. It is these aforementioned fears that have forced so many persons living with the disease to deal with their illness alone and/or in isolation. It is that fear of stigmatization and discrimination that has them living their lives without being able to share and speak the truth about the illness they are trying to come to grips with. It is this isolation that leads to despair and, forms of self destruction like excessive alcohol and substance use. It is this fear that keeps me involved in addressing the issues people living with, affected by and at risk for HIV/AIDS deal with every day by promoting peer based supports and events; the latest being the 2009 Alberta Positive Voices Conference. This year’s conference proved to be a greater success than I could have ever imagined based on the positive evaluation comments from conference attendees. Many of the presenters were people living with HIV, and representatives from a number of major National AIDS Service agencies. There was a lot of brain work but we also managed to incorporate time to just relax in a beautiful country environment with the opportunity to talk with other people living with the same issues and illness in a safe place. Participants spoke of finally being able to talk about a “deep dark secret” for the first time with people who understood. Negative partners of persons living with HIV mentioned they had fears removed and could see a future together with their partners even with HIV as a reality. There were no “cliques” of straight, gay, injection drug user, aboriginal, male, female segregation at the conference because everyone present came together under one reality; that we were all persons living with HIV/AIDS in our lives and we had a lot of knowledge, information and support to give to one another over the course of the weekend. I would like to express my deepest thanks to the donors and

GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine #66, April 2009 31 Letters Letters to the Editor

Dear GayCalgary, Strokes Swim Club, a non-profit organization! Just as AIDS Calgary events support AIDS Calgary, ARGRA supports ARGRA, Apollo sup- The Imperial Sovereign ports Apollo etc etc. And the fact that this individual shows up late Court of The Wild Rose and wanted in free shows that he/she isn’t really interested in sup- continues to raise money porting charity anyway. for many charities as it does every year. This past year, as described in the August Sincerely, 2008 issue of GayCalgary Michael Leboldus and Edmonton Magazine, we have been raising money to purchase special chairs for the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit of the Dear GayCalgary, Royal Alexandra Hospital. These special chairs will allow parents to hold the sickest and tiniest babies more often, sooner and for longer I read the letter that an anonymous attendee wrote to your maga- periods in hopes that one day they will get to go home with their zine about the Different Strokes Swim Club Mardi Gras Party- March mums and dads. 2009. Today, April 1st, 2009, is the two year anniversary of the day my Firstly, it was disappointing to note that “GayCalgary Magazine”, son, Andrew, passed away while being held by his mum in such a did not make an appearance at the event to cover it. I understand chair. In an emotional moment captured by Global Edmonton, I, on that was because of some “misunderstandings”, on exclusive spon- behalf of the ISCWR and my family, was proud to present the NICU sorship between GayCalgary Magazine and the Different Strokes with four chairs with the inscription “In celebration of the life of An- Executive. Nonetheless, it was disappointing to learn of this and that drew…through the generosity of the ISCWR...” upon them. “You”, as a large media promoter within the gay community could not put aside your issues and cover the event. Just goes to show that Often, when you donate money to a charity, it goes to a large you’re not impartial to what you cover and put in your magazine. organization and you do not have an opportunity to see what is actually accomplished with it. Here we see something tangible. Secondly, I attended the event and spoke to a couple of the swim And, I know that each pom pom, chocolate bar or shooter that is club members working the event, and contrary to your anonymous purchased, or donation made, or whatever it is that you do to sup- writer’s comments, I thought it was well put together. They had port the ISCWR in Edmonton and the ISCCA in Calgary DOES have “excellent” and plenty of food, numerous door prizes their friends an impact. My son is with us today because he was held in such a at Priape, Eagle, Outlooks to name a few, they had two manned chair on his most fragile of days when we almost lost him. Someday, efficient bars & reasonable prices. The rooms were decorated in top I know in my heart that another child will leave the NICU with his/ notch Mardi Gras fashion, the music was very house. Entrance was her own mum and dad that would not have otherwise, because they $15 in advance and $20 at the door. Where can you go today for that were able to be held in such a chair. Another child may fall asleep price, dance, and have a bite to eat? They had Aids Calgary and in their mum’s and dad’s arms in peace in one of those chairs. And Apollo advertising displays. these mums and dads will see my boy’s name on it. And they will see the ISCWR’s name on it. And wonder. And be grateful. And I Charging an entrance fee 45 minutes before closing isn’t such a will know exactly how they will feel…I’ve been there. bad thing. Can you attend a movie 45 minutes before it ends and expect to get in for free? Thank you, my friends, my community for all of your support. I’m a humbled, yet proud Empress and dad today. I’m grateful to all It was also very evident that numerous people from the Different of you. I hope you really do feel that what you are doing is good and Strokes Club were attending to matters as efficiently as they could, makes a difference. I need you to believe me today...that it is and it from bar ticket sales, coat check, to clean up of empty glasses plates does. etc. In a time in our community when we have Limited number of Most Sincerely, avenues to get out and enjoy time socializing and having some fun it H.M.I.S.M. was really disappointing to see the lack of “Support” and Atten- Marni Gras dance by our fellow community members for the event. I guess about 275 people were there. A small number in comparison to other events like “Agra” dances. Dear Editor, This probably was one of the swim clubs last events they will try In the March issue you published an anonymous letter to the and sponsor as a result. editor attacking the recent Mardi Gras event put on by Different Strokes. While I did not attend the event so cannot respond to all The effort and energy members put into this was certainly evident. of his complaints (although many of my friends said it was a great Good Work Guys! event) I do have to comment on a couple of points. Not only was it a means to create awareness for the swim club, Firstly, why was this letter published anonymously? People hav- but also to fund raise, as they are non-profit and the club receives ing an opinion should stand proudly behind it and the media should no funds from anywhere other than the swimmers who swim. be very hesitant to publish such letters without attaching a name I hope you print this so that all the community can read and won- to it. If this person is still hiding their sexuality and doesn’t wish to der why we don’t have events like other cities in Canada. Take Note be exposed, I’m sure that if these problems really did exist at Mardi Gay people in Calgary! Gras, some of the hundreds in attendance more comfortable with their sexuality would be willing to expose them to your magazine. Sincerely As far as what charity the dance supports, it supports Different Bruce

32 GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine #66, April 2009 Letters

Hi Bruce and Michael, all of that, there’s only so much we can do to prevent someone from fabricating a name to hide their identity – which is just as bad if not If you ask Pride Calgary whether we attended their Bottle Jive worse than going in as Anonymous. At least we know for sure that fundraiser on the same night, they will likewise tell you “no”. Usu- Anonymous is hiding their identity, and not pretending to be some- ally I am responsible for covering Calgary events while Steve is away one they’re not. covering events in Edmonton, but I made the decision months in advance to join him at the Bearbash that same night in Edmonton - Incidentally we did receive another letter to the editor that exit was an event that I really wanted to attend. Up to the last minute, pressed similar objection to Michael, but ironically the author of this even while we were in Edmonton, we were trying to find someone letter had to retract it because of fear that their own personal opin- to cover the Mardi Gras Dance and the Bottle Jive on our behalf ion would negatively impact the non-profit organization that they back in Calgary, but none of our contacts were available or willing are involved with. Perhaps this exactly demonstrates why we must to attend. So sadly, as a result, neither event received coverage last sometimes print anonymous letters – because many in the commu- month. However in situations like this, the event organizers are al- nity have difficulty separating the people from the groups that they ways encouraged to submit photos of their events if they can still be belong to. How else can they have a personal opinion? published in a timely fashion (and so long as they can vouche that the people in the photos are ok to be published). It wouldn’t have Speaking of which, the E-mail address that Bruce used to submit been too late had we received photos this month, but by the sounds his letter, I recognize as belonging to a member of the Different of it, some people at the Mardi Gras Dance were already jumping to Strokes team. That might not matter if it wasn’t someone directly conclusions about our absence. Are we that taken for granted, that involved in the so-called “misunderstanding”. However I will give to miss an event is to say it must be for a reason? Come on people. Bruce the benefit of the doubt. To be honest, I’m glad that both of you submitted an opposing The details of GayCalgary’s sponsorship are misrepresented in point of view to Anonymous, as there are many sides to any story. Bruce’s letter. Though they are really no business of the public, There has been some kafuffle over the fact that we would print an suffice it to say that we reached out to Different Strokes in a time anonymous letter in the first place. I should point out that the of need, for what was termed a “make or break” fundraising event. anonymous author was not anonymous to us. We contacted them to GayCalgary offered Different Strokes a very generous sponsorship ask if they would be willing to step forward this month, but because package that invited other publications to play fairly alongside of us they had legitimate reason to remain anonymous, they declined. by matching our commitment. Our sponsorship was accepted, but a Last month we did correspond with them further to assess whether member of the Different Strokes executive took it upon himself to go the letter was just a bitchy pot-shot or a reasonable critique. From over the head of their designated sponsorship director, and sought to consulting others that attended the event, we made a judgement purposely violate the conditions of the agreement, with premeditated call that their observations were not entirely unreasonable. Criti- plans to cover it up as a misunderstanding or miscommunication cism isn’t always an “attack” that needs to be extinguished – if you within the group. GayCalgary declined to publish advertising from can see past what’s on the surface, it can be revealing of underlying Different Strokes due to the severity of this breach of trust. That problems that those closer to the event might have been too polite to this board member would soil a deal with the only magazine directly tell you. For instance, the author’s misunderstanding about where targeting the Mardi Gras Dance’s immediate audience was indeed the funds were going is perhaps a sign that the premise of the event sad. The results were apparent from Bruce’s complaints of a less isn’t immediately obvious to outsiders. And regarding the organiza- than stellar turnout to the event. tion of the event – frankly the crowd has more eyes than the organiz- From Bruce’s letter, it is obvious there is some poison that needs ers do, so maybe there was a problem and those within the group to be cleared up. Thus, if anyone from the Different Strokes team were too busy to notice it. Or maybe this person just witnessed wishes to challenge us on our summary of this situation, we will an isolated incident that formed their overall opinion of the night. gladly provide a complete record of E-mail correspondence to back There’s no point in getting so defensive, the people that really want up every statement we have made. However for the general public, to hurt you are the ones that see a potential problem and DON’T tell these details need not be revealed. We have no desire to hurt any of you. the good and honest people that are part of Different Strokes, several On one hand I agree that if people have a valid opinion worth of whom we have to thank for looking out for us in this situation expressing, they should put their full, real name to it. On the other hand, unlike in straight publications, our community is too small Rob Diaz-Marino to allow people to disappear into the crowd if they choose to express GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine an opinion or provide criticism - who really wants to get verbally attacked while they’re out trying to have a good time? Also, we have to balance some pretty gray situations (like this one), and of course being a GLBT magazine there is always the concern people have of outing themselves. We have to think beyond the scope of the Mardi Gras Dance because our magazine is a concrete record that can’t be undone once it’s published, and it can turn up anywhere. Besides

GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine #66, April 2009 33 Community Why should YOU volunteer?

AIDS Walk, to engaging the community through public speaking By AIDS Calgary Awareness Association opportunities, to sitting on a board to provide strategic direction for an organization. Reasons for volunteering can vary dramatically from AIDS Calgary Awareness Association itself was founded in person to person. Some people feel the need to give 1983 by a group of volunteers with a clear vision for a Cal- back to their community. Some people are looking gary-based AIDS Service Organization. Initially a grassroots to gain valuable experience to assist in the process association, these volunteers did everything from fundraising to of going back to school or finding meaningful em- developing and delivering programming. ployment. Some people simply want to have fun and Volunteers are just as critical to our agency today as they spend time doing something they enjoy. were 25 years ago. On average, volunteers give over 14,000 hours of time to us each year - that is the equivalent to eight The most recent volunteer studies done by Volunteer Canada staff positions. No small contribution to an agency with only 16 and Imagine Canada showed that over a one-year period almost staff members! 12 million Canadians (or 45% of the population over the age of 15) volunteered their time. These Canadians contributed almost One of our volunteer board members, Jeff Kaplar, has this to 1 billion hours of their time or the equivalent of 1 million full- say about volunteering: “Helping people = feeling good. It just time jobs. seems like the right thing to do. AIDS Calgary itself doesn’t have needs; the people that we serve have needs. Many of us are To be frank about it, many non-profit organizations would lucky; to some extent we get to choose the life we lead and the not be able to do the work they do without the support of their world that we live it in. For the rest, sometimes getting a help- volunteers. Events such as the Scotiabank AIDS Walk for Life ing hand can go a long way, and might make a big difference in utilize upwards of 100 volunteers just on the day of the event. their world. Doesn’t that sound like a world you’d want to live Volunteers do everything from registering participants at the in?” April 19th to 25th is National Volunteer Week in Canada. This week is an opportunity to celebrate volunteers and vol- unteerism nationally and locally. To celebrate, AIDS Calgary is holding a Volunteer Open House. Our Volunteer Open House is the perfect opportunity for people to meet our staff, find out about exciting new volunteer opportunities and learn about our upcoming “Volunteer Chal- lenge”. Our open house is open to everyone including past, present and future volunteers, community partners and supporters! If you want to learn more about volunteering at AIDS Calgary please join us on Wednesday, April 22nd. Drop by our offices any time between 4:00 and 7:00pm. So, why should you volunteer? Because everybody else is doing it? Because you want to be a part of your community? Because you have a cause you’re passionate about? Because you want to have fun and meet new people? Because you want to share your talents and skills with others? Maybe the question should be: Why shouldn’t you volunteer?

For more on Jeff’s thoughts on volunteering please visit http://aidscalgary. blogspot.com on Thursday, April 23rd. To RSVP for AIDS Calgary’s Volunteer Open House, please contact Nikhat at 403-508-2500 ext.116. We hope to see you there!

AIDS Calgary Volunteer Open House  Wednesday, April 22nd, 4pm-7pm  Aids Calgary 1603 – 10 Avenue SW, Calgary  (403) 508-2500  www.aidscalgary.org

34 GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine #66, April 2009 GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine #66, April 2009 35 36 GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine #66, April 2009 Community News Alberta Government Gives to SHARP Plans for Independence House Announced

The Sharp Foundation is in the process of working with archi- By James S.M Demers tects to draw up plans for the facility. “The designs that we’ve seen so far are really exciting,” says Visser. “It has been com- As you may already know, the Sharp Foundation munity collaboration with the area where the structure is being is a Calgary-based non-profit charitable organiza- placed, with the clients and the Calgary Housing Association; we are trying to engage the community as much as possible.” tion with a mandate to provide a ‘holistic’ (medical, physical, psychosocial and spiritual) continuum of The project is scheduled to be completed in 2012 in conjunc- care to people living with HIV or AIDS. tion with The SHARP Foundation’s 20th anniversary. Until then, SHARP will be extremely busy working on organizing the interior The Foundation has operated since the early 1990’s under the furnishing and stocking the new building with all the necessi- unifying belief that each person living with HIV/AIDS deserves ties for opening day. The Foundation is looking to improve the dignity and the right to receive the support that they need. It is service-oriented side of the organization. This new building will an incredible task to provide for those who, in some cases, are be an opportunity to improve the lives of many members of the nearing the end of their life due to the disease. community and increase awareness. For the first time the Provincial Government has moved to ac- The Director of Calgary Housing states, “We want people living knowledge the immense cost and man power required to run an in this building to be recognized as living in a great building, operation of this nature. Through housing and internal affairs, rather than living with HIV.” the government has approved 1.4 million dollars for the SHARP This project brings an overwhelming feeling of hope. For the Foundation to acquire eight units (one and two bedroom suites), SHARP Foundation and those they serve, the future looks bright. in an apartment style complex. Once completed, the structure will be called Independence House and will also provide services such as nurse’s therapy and full time peer support.

“This is an exciting project; it almost doubles the size of the Foundation’s resources and services available to the clients.”

This will become a long term care center with an extra empha- sis on those who are in need of low income housing, a dilemma often ignored in Calgary. In fact, the SHARP Foundation has always made an effort to accommodate these individuals. In 2006, the Alberta Council in HIV did study that found approximately 75% of people living with HIV were below the poverty line, and their primary needs were safe and affordable housing. Now, the SHARP Foundation is looking to build stronger, valuable partnerships with Alberta Services Harm Reduction, The Drop In Center, C.U.P.S, and other agencies that work with the homeless – simply because an increasing number of their referrals are coming from the homeless sector. Independence House will include communal spaces to create opportunities for residents to socialize with their peers, which can be very therapeutic. It stems the tendency to retreat from the world for fear of stigma and discrimination. It has been shown that living in a homey environment with long term care options can greatly improve their clients’ quality of life, and in some cases, their chances for recovery. “This is an exciting project; it almost doubles the size of the Foundation’s resources and services available to the clients,” said Floyd Visser, Executive Director of the SHARP Foundation. “This will be more targeted towards long term rather than traditional housing and make them feel at home. It is important to keep them in a stress minimizing environment as well as creates a place to socialize.” This funding from the Provincial Government has been made possible with the exiting partnership that the Sharp Foundation had forged with the Calgary Housing Association. The funds are being matched by Calgary Housing Company for the structure and its construction.

GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine #66, April 2009 37 Community Spotlight Running for Royalty ISCCA Candidates for 33rd Reign

Many people think that I’m a newcomer to the drag scene. I’ve held By Rob Diaz-Marino several titles throughout the years, and had high heels on as well as boots. The reason why the spotlight hasn’t hit me was because of my As you may already know, the Imperial Sovereign conscious decision of refusing higher profile titles, for not being ready Court of the Chinook Arch is a non-profit organization for it. We all know that as far as the entertainment portion of the Court, the girls get more attention than the boys, but there is a lot more that fundraises throughout the year for a handful of to this wonderful game than the shows, and a lot of platform for the important charities. Every year, a new Emperor and male titleholders to prove themselves. We are also a team, this isn’t Empress are voted in to serve as public figures for the a competition, we are all here for the same reason...to help those in ISCCA. With this fame comes a great deal of responsi- need, raise awareness, and represent Calgary across North America. bility, as the elected Emperor and Empress must imple- Candidates for Empress 33 ment fundraising events and collect tips to benefit the organization. Argintina Hailey-Santos The positions of Emperor and Empress are the only positions of My name is Argintina Hailey- power in the GLBT community that are voted in democratically by Santos and it is an honour to be the people of the community at large. Thus anyone running for ei- given a 2nd chance by the board ther position must campaign for people’s votes, and raise awareness of directors to run for Empress of the group so that people do vote. 33 of Calgary and all of Southern Alberta...this is a sign of 2nd Everyone in the community is entitled to vote once and only once chances for me as a person who for the candidate that they feel would do the best job in the position may not have always had the that they are running for. As in a real election, spoiled ballots are approval of some but was always counted if you cannot decide. In the case where there is only one supported by friends, family and candidate for a position, that candidate must still campaign for most of all the community. This community members to respond in their favor for a yes/no vote. If also gives me the chance to show they fail, the role title falls to the most recent prior title holder that is what an amazing and caring willing to accept it. person I really am...I am in it for the Community and most of all This year there are four candidates for the position of Empress, our charities!! and one candidate for Emperor. This article is an equal opportunity for all candidates to introduce themselves, and answer a challenging You have reigned as Empress question tailored to them personally. once before. Why should the community vote you as Empress The ISCCA strives to represent all facets of the GLBT community, again when other candidates haven’t yet had the opportunity? What so polls are open to everyone. Take a moment to inform yourself do you plan to do differently from your previous reign if you are about the selection of candidates, or speak to them personally as elected? they continue to campaign at various venues and events. Votes are available on April 11th from noon to midnight at the Backlot (209 It’s for the people and with the people, we can make a difference in - 10th Avenue SW). the lives of those who have not had the luxuries of what we take for granted. I want to focus my campaign on what I can do as a person to Candidates for Emperor 33 help bring awareness to those who do not understand what the Impe- rial Sovereign Court of the Chinook Arch sets out to do, and that is to Joey Hailey help those that are less fortunate and bring awareness for various organizations that need our help in fighting various diseases and to My name is Joey Hailey, I’m find cures! My fist reign was a little challenging for me because of my 28 years old and lived in Calgary inexperience but I did manage to survive the various hurdles certain for about 8 years. I have been individuals put in my way. My friends, my family and most of those involved in the court system for that were in my upper house helped guide me through some of the about the same amount of time. difficult times. What I plan to do different is to include the community The reason why I handed my in this reign and with the community support we can achieve a lot, application in this year is because not only for our charities but for our unity as well...we are all equal, I’m financially, physically, and no matter which gender we are, and together we stand united. It’s emotionally ready to take on this a year to work as a community! “With The Community and For The great challenge of representing Community!” This Campaign is about Awareness and 2nd Chances Calgary in a well fashioned mat- so, please come out on April 11th, 2009 and VOTE for ARGINTINA ter, as well as being a leading role HAILEY-SANTOS as your 33rd Empress of Calgary. in the fundraising and awareness perspective of the position. Bianca LaBouche You are not seen in the drag I am Bianca Labouche, candidate for Empress 33 of Calgary. I’m scene as often as many of the running for Empress for the community, to raise awareness of our non Empress candidates that are running this year. Yet, if you become profit organizations and charities, and for the pure joy of performing Emperor, you may be working alongside someone with more visibility and meeting new people. Children and charity have always been and experience. How do you see yourself keeping up with your subjects very dear to my heart... and by working together as a commu- Empress? nity we can improve standards and raise some money in the process. Organizations like Beswick House and the Children’s Wish Founda-

38 GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine #66, April 2009 Community Spotlight

tion work to provide a better life Many people in the community for people who are less-fortunate still perceive you to be a fledgling and educate our community. The drag queen. How would the role Imperial Sovereign Court of the of Empress help you to grow? Chinook Arch is the perfect vehicle Why should the community se- for me to get involved and make a lect you over a more experienced difference. queen? You have reigned as Empress I am running for the position of once before, and during that Empress 33 because I have been reign you were forced to tempo- helped many times by the GLBT rarily step down and relinquish community and am in a position your title. What has changed where I can give back to the com- since that time? Why should the munity. Do I think you need years community give you a second of experience to do this? No, you chance as Empress? can have no experience to 10 years of experience - as long as When I was elected the 27th I’m doing this for the right reason Empress of Calgary I was forced and pour my heart and devotion in this, I will shine through regard- to resign, largely because of less of who may think I’m inexperienced. Some of the most influential gossip, hearsay and scandal. People I thought were supporting me women and drag queens started out young with no experience and turned-out to be acting only for themselves. We all suffer common jeal- look at them now. Though through the year I will have questions ousies and personality conflicts and in my own naive way fell victim about what I think I should do, or be unsure what the right decision is, to those in my life. I think I’ve matured since then and have learned to that’s why we have not only a board of directors but also a college of see the really important people around me for who and what they are, monarchs to lean on for guidance and support, as any new Empress and to not be blinded by petty emotions. It was a pivotal moment in needs. Taking a lesson from role models of mine, and including a year my life and I have strived to amend and overcome these past hurdles. of being Empress, will help me grow. I don’t think many people in this I believe everyone deserves a second chance, and maybe this time I community see me as a fledgling queen but as a queen who is to this can not only repair some past damages, but move forward in a con- day, and always will be growing. structive and meaningful way. A trying family ordeal recently caused me to re-evaluate my priorities and I know that as Empress 33, I can Editor’s Note: Candidate responses may have been edited for minor spelling and put my best sequined foot forward and rise to the challenge. Thank- grammatical errors. Candidates not submitting a preferred photo had a photo you all and don’t forget to vote in April. Ciao, bellas! selected for them from a recent candidate show. Malibu Stacey I have been involved with the ISCCA,SA for 7 years. I have held different titles (Princess and Duchess included) throughout the years. I ran for the position of Em- press 3 years ago against Dyna Myte, and even though I did not win that year, I did gain a lot of in- sight as to how the position works. Since then I have been planning as to what my year would entitle. I have been though ups and down, and still find myself coming to the conclusion that I can, and want, to fulfill the duties as Empress of Calgary and all Southern Alberta. If elected, I will represent Calgary and all Southern Alberta with style, class, dignity and grace to the best of my ability.

You already donate a great deal of your time to the ISCCA, but the role of Empress will require even more of you. If you become Em- press, how will you balance your responsibilities and still look after your own wellbeing? I plan to bring a strong upper house on board. My time manage- ment skills will come into play. I plan to do membership drives to get more people involved, as well as lots of communication with the house and the community. Onyxx Myte VonBearstein My name is Onyxx Myte VonBearstein. I am 23 years old and running for the position for Empress 33 of Calgary and all of South- ern Alberta. Though I may be young I have been involved with the ISCCA,SA for five years now. I got my start with the ISCCA,SA during Empress Erica Devine and Emperor Alexander’s year, helping with 50/50 sales, and in doing this I received a lower house title. Con- tinuing through the years I got my first experience of an upper house member during Empress and Emperor 30, Dyna Myte and Wolfgang VonBearstein’s year when I elevated from Personal Princess to Grand Dutchess. GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine #66, April 2009 39 Trans Identity A History of Gender Variance in Expression and Identity Part 3: Into the Modern Age (1700s - 1932)

(the predominant opinion had previously been that she was female). By Mercedes Allen 1812 - Two male workers dress as women, call themselves “Gen- eral Ludd’s wives” and lead an angry crowd of hundreds to destroy As society evolved toward the modern age that we know steam looms and a factory in Stockton, then attempt to burn down now, trans expression did not disappear, but did be- the home of the factory owner in classic Industrial Revolution un- come far more subversive. The last surviving remnants rest. As soon as the riot is quelled, it re-ignites in Oldham. of festival behaviour developed into what we now know 1831 - George Sand publishes Rose et Blanche in collaboration as Halloween, Mummer’s Dances, and Carnaval / Mar- with Jules Sandeau. Born Amantine Dupin, she takes on a male di Gras. Several outbreaks of civil disobedience also pen name under the pretense that it would be easier for her to used transgender motifs, led by groups known as the become published and taken seriously with a male moniker. She Abbeys of Misrule (France and northern Italy, where also adopted male fashion, stating at different times that the clothes helped her move more freely around Paris streets, the clothes were leaders took titles like Mother, Dame and Princess), sturdier, and that they granted her access to areas that were off- the Lords of Misrule and Abbots of Unreason (England limits to a woman of her social standing. There is no evidence that and Scotland), Mère Folle and her Children, Mère Sotte Sand identified as male, and biographers are sometimes outraged and her Children, Mère d’Enfance, Madge Wildfire and at the suggestion, but it is also not certain that she wasn’t trans in spirit. Lady Skimmington. It later inspired other bands, such as Rebecca and 1839 to 1843 - Welsh civil libertarians, pro- her Daughters. Other military actions testing toll gates and working conditions, take up female attire and call themselves “Rebecca were directed by modern Joans of Arc, and her daughters,” destroying a number of the such as Captain Alice Clark and La mechanisms that the upper class had been using Branlaire. It can’t be certain if everyone to bleed the poor of what little they could save. participating in these uprisings were truly Again, this harkens to an earlier peasant tradition, transgender in any way or simply relied on as noted by historian Natalie Zemon: “In fact, the donning of female clothes by men and the adopting of cross-dressing as a convenient disguise, but female titles for riots were surprisingly frequent, in the the consistency still suggests early peasant- early modern period.” As the Rebeccas disappeared, the held matriarchal and trans-reverent customs. Molly Maguires and Ribbon Societies emerged to take their Some, such as the White Boys of Ireland, also place. make the claim to be faeries, leading one to wonder 1860 - Herculine Barbin is studied by her doctor, who if early stories of fee might also indicate early trans- discovers that the intersexed woman has a small penis, with gressive beliefs and traditions. testicles inside her body. Barbin is declared legally male against her wishes, becomes the subject of much scandal for having previ- We come to a point where things can be put into much more of a ously taught in a girl’s school, moves to Paris but continues to live chronological order: in poverty, and ultimately commits suicide in 1868. 1654 - Queen Christina of Sweden abdicates the throne and 1865 - Dr. James Barry dies, and is discovered to have female takes on a male persona, “Count Dohna.” sexual characteristics. He had been a surgeon with the British Army, and had been passing as male since at least 1809. Early 18th Century - The epithet “Molly” originates with “molly houses,” a term for effeminate gay brothels, noted for the presence 1867 - Karl-Heinrich Ulrichs (who relates in his memoirs that as of cross-dressing. The name itself seems to originate as a combina- a child, he wore girls’ clothing, wanted to be a girl and most enjoyed tion of the female name Mary with the Latin “mollis,” meaning soft, playing with other girls) becomes the first “Uranian” (he refers to effeminate. “Urning” as a male who desires men, and “Dioning” as a male who is attracted to women - it is not until two years later that Karl-Ma- 1755 - The first openly lesbian and transgender person, Char- ria Kertbeny coins the word “homosexual”) to speak out publicly in lotte Clarke, comes out by publishing “A Narrative of the Life of defense of GLBT causes, when pleading at the Congress of German Mrs. Charlotte Clarke (Youngest Daughter of Colley Cibber, Esq.).” Jurists in Munich for a repeal of anti-homosexual laws. He goes on In the autobiography, Clarke, a flamboyant cross-dressing actress to self-finance the publication of many advocative works written by during a time in which male impersonation was a popular form of himself, before finally retiring in exile, in Italy. entertainment (even if still very much taboo), relates many scandalous things, including her relationship with her “wife,” “Mrs. Brown.” 1869 - Karl Friedrich Otto Westphal publishes the first medical Although quite famous after this publication, Clarke passes away paper on transsexuality, describing two cases of what he termed three years later, penniless and destitute. “die contraire Sexualempfindung” (“contrary sexual feeling”), one being a male transvestite, the other a lesbian. 1777 - French spy and diplomat Charles-Geneviève-Louis-Au- guste-André-Timothée Éon de Beaumont (October 5, 1728 - May 21, 1872 - Eugene Schuyler visits Turkestan and observes that, 1810), usually known as the Chevalier d’Eon is allowed to return to “here boys and youths [are] specially trained to take the place of the France on the condition that she live and dress as a woman. Earlier dancing-girls of other countries.” The Bacchá are androgynous or in 1756, the Chevalier had posed as a woman for several years to cross-dressing Turkish underclass boys, trained in erotic dance, but gain the confidences of Empress Elizabeth of Russia. Throughout also available as prostitutes. This tradition continues until around her life, there would be ongoing speculation as to the Chevalier’s or shortly after WWI. physical gender, which would be determined as male after her death 1895 - Author and playwright Oscar Wilde is convicted of “gross

40 GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine #66, April 2009 Trans Identity indecency” and sentenced to two years’ hard labour. Wilde had Anima, that every male has some of the feminine in his unconscious been extensively involved with the Victorian underground, and (Anima), and every female has some of the masculine (Animus). stories (likely some true, some not) circulated about all manner of homosexual and cross-dressing activities, though Wilde himself was 1927 - The first transgender-themed play, Mae West’s “The Drag,” chiefly made scandalous by his relationship with Lord Alfred Doug- debuts in Bridgeport, Connecticut. It moves on to New Jersey, but las and other young men. fails to make it to Broadway, largely because it is forced to close after West’s arrest for appearing in her first Broadway hit, Sex. 1907 - Harry Benjamin (January 12, 1885 – August 24, 1986) Although West originally defends The Drag by saying that she meets Magnus Hirschfeld (May 14, 1868 - May 14, 1935) for the intended the play to call attention to homosexuality as a “disease,” first time. Although it would be some time before Benjamin would she later becomes a sort-of GLBT activist. The play alludes to the actively research transsexuality, the two men would become the writings of Karl-Heinrich Ulrichs, and West later goes on to fa- field’s pioneers. mously tell policemen who were raiding a gay bar, “Don’t you know you’re hitting a woman in a man’s body?” 1910 - Magnus Hirschfeld coins the term “transvestite.” The painting “Pinkie” by Sir Thomas Lawrence is acquired by 1914 - In a dictionary of criminal slang published in Portland, Henry Edwards Huntington. Along with Thomas Gainsborough’s Oregon, the word “faggot” is first seen as applied to the GLBT com- “Blue Boy,” which was acquired in 1921, the Huntington Collection munity, with the usage example, “All the fagots (sissies) will be becomes the focus of a media circus. Although they had nothing in dressed in drag at the ball tonight.” The word originally appeared common other than being expensive notables in the same collec- in Modern English in the 13th Century, meaning a bundle of sticks tion, the paintings are often mistaken as contemporary works by (derived from the French). By 16th Century, it meant bundles used the same artist, and categorized as a kind of “Romeo and Juliette” of for firewood, for the purpose of burning at the stake. A shortened Rococo pairing by the Los Angeles Times. They become featured as version “fag” is adopted as a British colloquialism for cigarette, and bookends, plate designs, and other merchandise. From this mass- is later (1923) also adopted in print as an epithet for gay and trans- market assault of imagery, the concept of “pink for girls / blue for gender practices, which at that time are all thought to be inter- boys” motif arises - previously, the colours had no fixed gender as- linked - the obvious implication reflecting what society at that time signation (although pink had been thought to be a boys’ colour). should largely do about gay and transgender persons. 1928 - Virginia Woolf’s novel “Orlando: A Biography” is pub- 1919 - Magnus Hirschfeld founds the Institute for Sexology in lished, chronicling the story of a man who decides not to grow old. Berlin, Germany. This would be the first clinic to serve transgender He doesn’t, but he awakes one day in the body of a young woman, people regularly and develop their study. and lives out a lifetime as her before waking as another man. The 1920 - Jonathan Gilbert publishes “Homosexuality and Its Treat- remaining centuries up to the time the book was written are seen ment,” which includes the story of “H,” later revealed to be a Port- through a woman’s eyes. land physician. Dr. Alan Hart “transitioned” by having a hysterecto- 1930 - Marlene Dietrich moves from German Cabaret to Ameri- my and proceeding to live as male, in 1917. The lesbian community can film with her debut in Morocco. As the ‘30s progress, she would later proclaim Hart to be a pioneer and classify his decision to live as a man as being an accommodation to social prejudice and coercion by a heterosexual doctor, rather than accepting any ex- planation of transsexuality. However, an examination of the central characters in Hart’s novels reveals many of the common themes and feelings that transsexuals experience. Although a few surgeons had already carried out some incom- plete sex reassignment surgeries previously (primarily removing the existing sex organs, not creating new ones), 1920 also saw the first complete surgeries for MTF transsexuals. These took place at Mag- nus Hirschfeld’s Institute for Sexology by Drs. Ludwig Levy-Lenz and Felix Abraham. 1923 - Recognizing some of the differences from transvestites, Magnus Hirschfeld introduces the term “transsexual.” 1920s - Violette Morris, a decorated French athlete, sues the Fédération Française Sportive Féminine (French Federation of Femi- nine Sports) for 100,000 francs for withdrawing her license to wear trousers. Morris was infamous for her variance in lifestyle from traditional women, being openly lesbian and masculine in presentation at a time when swearing and smoking were unheard of for women. The lawsuit and lifestyle issues would later see the FFSF bar her from competing in the 1928 Olympics. Around this time, she also has an elective mastectomy performed, under the pretext that it would help her fit more easily in racecars. She would later become an informant for the Germans, and be put to death by the French Resistance. Somewhere in the 1920s and early 1930s, drag balls developed in Harlem. They were originally arranged by gay white men, but very quickly became multiracial. They became lavish explorations of liberality, intentionally breaking taboos, but would still suffer some racial elitism. An exclusively black drag ball would break this trend when it developed in the 1960s, and the balls would metamorpho- size into a transformative dance culture movement. Profiled in the 1991 documentary, “Paris Is Burning” and co-opted by Madonna and the fashion industry for a time, “Voguing” would marry with hip-hop and thrive among over 100 dance “houses.” 1920s and 1930s - Carl Jung proposes the idea of Animus and

GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine #66, April 2009 41 Trans Identity becomes infamous for dressing in male attire, and gradually brings this penchant to fashion and film -- ultimately making it acceptable for women to wear pants and other masculine forms of clothing. Reportedly, she was quite persistent on changing into male attire offstage, and rumors circulated of lesbian relationships - although she has never been clearly established as identifying as male. 1930 also saw the transition of Lili Elbe, formerly Einar Wegener, a Danish painter and the first publically-known recipient of an SRS surgery. This became a major public scandal in Germany and Denmark, and the King of Denmark invalidated her marriage that October. She was fully intent on being someday able to conceive a child, and this drove her surgeons to try far-reaching techniques. She actually endured five surgeries in this process (the first was to remove the male genitals, the second to transplant ovaries - although she did have underdeveloped ones of her own. The third was unspecified, the fourth to remove the ovaries due to serious complications and the fifth being a forerunner of vaginaplasty). She died in 1931, probably from complications from her final surgery, although rumors persisted that she had faked her death in order to live in peace. 1931 - Dr. Felix Abraham publishes “Genital Reassignment of Two Male Transvestites,” detailing those first MTF SRS surgeries in 1923. 1932 - Harry Benjamin arranges a speaking tour for Magnus Hirschfeld in the United States. By the early 1930s, an awakening was taking place - although it did not grant any kind of restored status to transgender people, there were pockets of researchers willing to try to understand the transgender condition. Scientists such as Magnus Hirschfeld became champions of this study, and were notably prolific... although his published research was still relegated to less-dignified magazines, because of its subject matter. Transgender people were slowly climbing out of the abyss. But the centuries of hatred and oppression were not over yet. Next: From Germany to Stonewall. Partial Bibliography (for series, not chapter): Much of this had been compiled over time, and not all the sources have been recorded. Some online sources have been involved as well, although I search for more corroboration in these cases. • Bullough, Vern: Homosexuality: A History From Ancient Greece to Gay Liberationn • Califia, Patrick: Sex Changes: The Politics of Transgenderism • Colapinto, John: As Nature Made Him: The Story of a Boy Who Was Raised as a Girl • Currah, Paisley; Richard M. Juang and Shannon Price Minter: Transgender Rights • Feinberg, Leslie: TransGender Warriors • Fletcher, Lynne Yamaguchi: The First Gay Pope (and other records) • Kessler, Suzanne; and McKenna, Wendy: Gender: An Ethno- methodological Approach • Rudacille, Deborah: The Riddle of Gender • Walker, Barbara: various works • Williams, Walter: The Spirit and the Flesh Mercedes Allen is a writer who blogs at http://dentedbluemercedes.wordpress. com/, has been featured on bilerico.com, PageOneQ and others, and has also developed the website at AlbertaTrans.org as a resource for transgender information and support.

42 GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine #66, April 2009 FundraisingPhotography Photos

ISCCA Candidate Introductions at Texas Lounge - Calgary ISCCA Candidate Show at Calgary Eagle

ISCWR Turn-about at Boots - Edmonton

GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine #66, April 2009 43 PhotographyFundraising Photos

Fake Mustache Show at Money Pennies - Calgary St. Patricks Day Irish Auction at Texas Lounge - Calgary

Angels and Greasers at Money Pennies - Calgary

44 GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine #66, April 2009 Theatre Preview Telling it Like It Is The Calgary International Spoken Word Festival 2009

Later that evening, at 6pm, the festival will host its closing By James S.M Demers gala at the Hotel Arts, featuring a Calgary Nyabnghi drumming circle. All participants and are welcome to bring drums to join The Calgary spoken Word festival is kicking off once in, or will be available to rent from Ten World Drums. This is a again this year and the queer contingent is in full rare opportunity as this style of drumming has only two teach- force. Starting April 2nd, Funnier than #$@! And ers left in the world. Hotter than Hell is featuring an incredible line up at The festival will continue in Banff from April 15th to April the Auburn Saloon. 17th with numerous other guests and performers. On the 15th, there will be an opportunity for those outside of Banff to Performers include Regie Cabico, an accomplished queer tune into the action on the festival’s web site for Wired to the writer, is the artistic director of Sol & Soul, an arts and activist World. organization. He will be followed by the Xtra West writer Billeh Nickerson who is the author of The Asthmatic Glassblower, Tickets for the festival are available individually at Pages and Let Me Kiss it Better: Elixirs for the Not So Straight and Narrow Mega Tunes. A large majority of the events are priced at $10 and the forthcoming collection McPoems. He will be joined by per ticket with the Big Bang Gala at $25. poet/comedian Evalyn Parry who is a successful spoken word Participants can opt to purchase an $80 all inclusive pass. artist and writer that has co-authored and performed in five Passes available on the web site through pay pal, or call the of- plays. There’s also Cory Mac, a Calgarian humorist, and Ali fice at (403) 686-4292. Riley. The Night will be deftly handled by Shone Tell, as Master of Ceremonies. This is a fantastic opportunity to listen to some eclectic alternative voices. Be inspired and moved right here at home. April 3rd: Smart Men and Hot Words This event will introduce a different voice from men than we are accustomed to hearing in the mainstream. This event has created an opportunity for men to hear men writing about being men in a changing shifting culture - the pitfalls and admitted benefits, the funny and embarrassing moments. Tagged as the “Chip and Dales of Poetry” this event will feature a number of slam poets, acclaimed authors, and naturists. April 4th: Big Bang Music and Poetry This event kicks off a night of live music and blistering words held at the beautiful Chinese Cultural Centre. It features Lilly Allen, one of the grandmothers of spoken word in Canada, who has spent countless hours working and teaching within the community. Then there is John Juno, who Sheri D of the Calgary Spoken Word Festival jokes “Has been out longer than (the interviewer) has been alive.” He was one of the first to participate in the Andy Warhol factory, performs strictly from memory, and has been critically acclaimed as “one of the best current living poets.” Presenting the musical element will be Ras Michaels, consid- ered a reggae priest and a veteran of the first Bob Marley Band. He will be performing with Sons of Negus a ten piece reggae ensemble. April 5th: Story Circle Woman’s Song Beginning at 11am, this event creates an opportunity for a celebration of alternative women’s voices. It is a collaboration between Sexual Health Access Calgary, and will call on the talents of many well known poets and artists.

GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine #66, April 2009 45 Theatre Preview Movie Review Cappuccino Theatre I Love You, Man Blood Brothers Bro-mantic comedy a keeper

By James S. M. Demers By Benjamin Hawkcliffe

Cappuccino Singers started in 1992 as a “stand n’ sing” troupe that would take the opportunity to sing anything choral. Over time this would include Broadway, light classical, jazz and light pop. As time passed and the company grew stronger, they branched out into more complicated productions by adding one or two small staged vignettes into regular shows. Eventually these vignettes extended to complete acts and eventually, Everybody Comes to Seymour’s opened on the stage - a complete musical. The group has encouraged individuals to step outside of their comfort zone and try something they never thought they would do - anything from solos to writing or directing productions. In fact, there are a lot of people in Calgary who had their first stage experience with Cappuccino Musical Theatre. All of the group’s musical productions, until very recently, have been original scripts either written or directed by members I have to confess, I’ve had a crush on Paul Rudd of the company itself. They frequently work with already popu- since he played gay opposite Jennifer Aniston in The lar melodies in a create-your-own-musical style that allows Object of my Affection. After supporting roles in a young writers, actors and singers to bloom. Over time this format was hard to maintain based on the creative demands, not series of crass yet comic films like The 40 Year Old to mention the challenge of finding producing a new musical Virgin and Forgetting Sarah Marshall Rudd gets the every six months. This proved to be too much for the company, chance to prove himself as a leading man, opposite so they took a break to re-organize and re-structure before Jason Segel (Forgetting Sarah Marshall, How I Met coming back to put on A Chorus Line in April 2005. Stephen Your Mother.) Sondheim’s Into the Woods followed this success, and then the company returned to their roots in May 2006 with Eve, an origi- Rudd plays Pete Klaven, a real estate agent who proposes nal musical in a co-production with Broad Minds Productions. to his girlfriend Zooey (Rashida Jones). He soon realizes that he doesn’t have any guy friends, and thus no best man for his Cappuccino Theatre is looking to continue their accomplish- wedding, and embarks on a series of “Man-dates” to meet new ments this season with the upcoming April Production of Blood friends. After some awkward and often hilarious interactions Brothers, a haunting, rag to riches tragedy of our times. A with other males, Rudd meets Sydney Fife at an open house. woman with numerous children to support, surrenders one of The two hit it off and soon Pete and Sydney are jamming to her new born twins to the childless woman she cleans for. The Rush and taking long walks on the beach. boys grow up streets apart, never learning the truth but becoming firm friends and falling in love with the same girl. One While not a Judd Apatow movie, I Love You, Man does fall prospers while the other falls on hard times. But a price has to into that category of film he’s made famous, blending touching be paid for separating twins: the blood brothers are fated to die heartfelt characters with a few raunchy gags. There are a lot of on the day they find out that they are related. familiar faces, including Saturday Night Live’s Andy Samburg as Pete’s little brother, and Jane Curtain as his Mom. The audience for the screening of the show at Westhills Cinema howled throughout the entire show. Rudd’s take on the goofy Pete, who struggles to come up with cool lines, is immediately endearing and adorable. You kind of are torn between wanting him to get to the altar, and wanting to rip his clothes off and play with his chest hair. Well, at least if you are like me. Cappuccino Theatre Presents Blood Brothers I Love You, Man proved to be a fun night out at the movies. It’s a great film for a date or with a group of friends. I for one  April 23rd to May 2nd have not yet tired of this style of comedy, and I Love You, Man Weekdays at 8pm, weekends at 2:30pm is one of the better ones on the list.  Vertigo Theatre In theatres now. http://www.iloveyouman.com/ 161, 115 – 9th Ave SE, Calgary (403) 221-3708 $20 for adults, $17.50 for students and seniors

46 GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine #66, April 2009 Theatre Review I Love You, Man The Erotic Anguish of Don Juan Bro-mantic comedy a keeper ATP and The Old Trout Explore Love Through Puppets

There are a number of reasons to see the show, Palmer says. By Jason Clevett ”The theatrical effect of the thing, the way it looks and feels, Calgary has been blessed to have two of “Eng- is going to be something new, strange and wondrous. We were propelled by questions about how to make love work in this lish-Canada’s” greatest puppet masters in its own day and age, post sexual revolution, that are lurking under the backyard. While Ronnie Burkett has since moved surface for most people.” to Toronto, The Old Trout Puppet Workshop is still That exploration is something that applies to everyone, says based in Calgary. Alberta Theatre Projects has long Porteous, including the LGBT community. been a supporter of both, and is debuting a partnership with the Trouts on their current show The “Our hero is a polyamorist, and he is making a case for it in the show. That is pertinent to everyone, but because of peoples Erotic Anguish of Don Juan running until April 11th. lifestyles everyone will have a different opinion. We wanted to “This is the second collaboration with The Old Trouts, the pose the question, not answer it. It did seem really relevant and first was Pinocchio in 2004. We learned a lot from that col- something nobody was talking about. As gay rights come along laboration, both companies were very proud of the result which and people can marry and enter into a monogamous situation, is why we went ahead with a second collaboration,” explained I am sure there are a lot of people who are wondering about it director Vanessa Porteous. “The advantage is that together all of a sudden. It didn’t used to be a legal option at all, now it we can create something more beautiful than either company is and you are faced with all those questions and all the moral could have pulled off on our own. The expertise we have in the judgments that go along with those questions. It is extremely ATP shops has added a layer of detail to what you will see on complicated and interesting to be delving into this material,” stage that is amazing. The imagination of the Trouts brings she said. something fresh and new to ATP. We have also got a local com- “It is a play about love, and we all love. It is really about the poser, George Fenwick, on board who has written 60 minutes of tension between honesty in love relationships and lying. When entirely new music for the show, written and recorded entirely you agree to be in a monogamous relationship, you are giving with local players. It is an extraordinary score.” up certain things. The play addresses the question, is it true After 500 years of ruminating on the spoils of his indulgent and right to be faithful forever, or are you betraying someone if appetite for women, Don Juan’s ghost emerges to reveal his tale you have an open relationship? What are the pains and costs of of how terrible and wonderful, painful and pleasurable, and either model? When we started the show everyone was in love, ultimately full of contradictions love is. and it was a very pertinent issue, so we wanted to do a play about the complexities and contradictions of love. Everyone is “The play is about love and how it can lead you to hell. Don wondering how to live their lives happily in love.” Juan has been condemned to hell for his romantic career, and returns to tell his story so that we can learn to avoid his past. He goes back into his memories of how he became a man who had 1000 lovers. He tells it to us as a narrator and brings us ATP and the Old Trout Theatre Present back through his life,” said Porteous. The Erotic Anguish of Don Juan The show is unique in blending human and animated ele- ments together. Don Juan is played by a real person – Peter  March 24th – April 11th, 2009 Balkwill – who interacts with silent puppets.  www.atplive.com “This is a big experiment. The main character is played by a human and the rest are puppets in a more abstract sense than we usually use. For us, the idea of the hidden puppeteer has a lot of value, because there is an element to a puppet show that is a magic trick. That can help the audience invest their own imaginations into the little creatures as if they are real things and they should care,” explained The Old Trouts’ Judd Palmer. “It is also beautiful for us to put the puppeteer on stage to show we are all in this together, working to create something we can believe in. That is a joy of it in a way. The event on stage is a creation not just amongst those who made it, but those in the audience as well.”

GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine #66, April 2009 47 Classified Ads

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GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine #66, April 2009 49 Festival Preview Projecting Towards Pride and Celluloid Sneek a’ Peek at The FairyTales International Queer Diversity Film Festival XI

By Spencer Tyler Local Flavor The festival will also feature short films by local filmmakers It may be surprising for some people to learn that including Salton himself who explains the ethical grey area of Calgary’s 2nd largest film festival, in Canada’s programming a film he wrote and directed. “The festival has a programming committee that rates our submissions and acts conservative heartland, is queerer than a three as an advisory board once the films are selected. In the case of dollar bill. The eleventh annual self-deprecatingly Reality High, it was judged on its technical merit, queer author- titled FairyTales International Queer Diversity Film ship, and the fact that it was a locally produced film made by Festival will showcase over 90 films and videos from the SAIT Polytechnic Film and Video Production class of 2008. I don’t receive a dime from the artist fees that the festival awards somewhere over the international rainbow. Out- every filmmaker whose film is selected. That money will go landish plot-lines, hair-wringing drama, and sala- directly to the SAIT Film & Video fund which fosters future stu- cious- cinematic-same-sex soft-core can be found dents’ film projects.” screening larger than life in Kensington’s Plaza The- Reality High was recently nominated by the Alberta Motion atre over an ambitious ten days, amidst a covertly Picture Industry Alliance for Best Student Film and can best subversive counter-programmed serving of experi- be described as a satire of reality television and Canadian/ mental short films and socially-relevant documen- American relations. Or as Salton describes it; “If the plots of Heathers, The Truman Show, Degrassi High and Network were taries mixed in for good measure. Stephen Harper involved in a 4-way stop collision, you’d get Reality High.” must be so proud! Albertan filmmaker Trevor Anderson, recipient of the Riley- Despite the dour omens of impending economic apocalypse, in Metzger audience award for Best Short Film at last year’s Fai- the absence of Calgary Cares, and news of Calgary Pride moving ryTales festival, returns with The Island, an animated comedic from June to September, FairyTales is flittering full-force into meditation on what Anderson would conceive if the homophobic the queer arena with its largest collection of independent queer mantra of putting all gay men on an island to give each other films in its history, and a gung-ho attitude to keep queer Calgar- AIDS were to come to fruition. The film was shot in Cold Lake, ians proud of their community, and happily entertained. Alberta which is magically transformed through animation into Festival Director Matt Salton isn’t oblivious to the trepida- a sunny, tropical paradise complete with a hungry volcano and tion and nervousness long-time sponsors are experiencing by a giant catapult. “I’m not telling you what the catapult is used choosing to play it safe and sitting this one out. “I’d so the same for,” Salton laughs. “You’ll just have to come see for yourself.” thing,” Salton says. “It’s the independents who normally sup- The Island and Anderson recently returned from Berlin, Ger- port queer events that we want to ensure continue to thrive so if many where the film was selected to play in the esteemed Berli- they need a year to be mindful of their spending, we understand nale International Film Festival. “The fact that The Island was and know they’ll be back next year.” selected to play in one of the most prestigious festivals in the world is a huge acknowledgement that we have one of the best FairyTales is also remaining fiscally conscious when it comes and brightest filmmakers right in our backyard,” Salton says. to making a ten-day film festival affordable to the public. “Tick- ets run anywhere from $10 a screening to $15 for the opening Other local filmmakers in this year’s festival include Sandi and closing gala films,” Salton explains. “But we encourage Somers’ The Artistic Taxidermist which also received interna- everyone to purchase a membership to the society for ten bucks tional festival recognition and the illustrious honour of screen- and that way you can buy a festival pass for $75 and go nuts.” ing at Cannes last year. Queer activist and commu- Salton shares with GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine a nity champion, Kait Hatch sneak preview of some of the films you can expect to cozy up to recently had the opportu- with a large bucket of buttered popcorn next month. The full nity to screen her 3 minute line-up will be announced online at www.fairytalesfilmfest.com animated short, Affinity to on May 1st. the opening gala crowd for MILK back in December, Opening Gala Film: The Baby Formula and FairyTales will be re- Thursday, May 28th, 7pm - The Plaza Theatre screening her adorable story of queer pride in a collection Writer and Director Alison Reid will be in attendance for this of QueerToons at the EM- amusing mock-u-mentary about an attractive, young lesbian MEDIA Gallery on Satur- couple who are test subjects for an experimental process based day morning (May 30th). on factual science that could create female sperm out of stem Lastly, Diane Busuttil who cells. Salton says, “I don’t know why Canadians love their can currently be seen in mock-u-mentaries, but we do them so well! This one reads like Theatre Junction’s On The a lesbians-only flick, but it totally transcends the gender bound- Side of the Road continues aries that so many of us can’t seem to get over when we go to to explore the weird and the gay film festivals. It has spirit, laughs and some surprisingly wondrous with her filmDirt touching moments as well, and really nails home the common and Desire which will screen relationships we share with our families.”

50 GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine #66, April 2009 Festival Preview on Saturday, May 30th prior to Bruce LaBruce’s equally disturb- artist Thirza Cuthand continues to explore the political with a ing feature Otto; Or Up With Dead People, a gay zombie love story generous dollop of humour in You Are A Lesbian Vampire and he filmed in Germany. Busuttil’s film was also shot in Germany Kent Monkman continues his series of colonialization satires and features Busuttil as the lovely hostess of a potato orgy that featuring his alter-ego Chief Eagle-Testicle (think Cher in her goes from weird to revolting in under 5 minutes. “When Diane half-breed phase) in Shooting Geronimo. Superb works from asked me what the committee thought of her film, I told her we cinematographer/director Kevin Lee Burton, Winnipeg-based were all thoroughly disgusted,” Salton says. “She couldn’t have Marjorie Beaucage, Beric Manywounds and Lorne Olson will been more pleased!” also be exhibited. Oh! Canada! Next month, FairyTales will release its entire line-up of international queer film and video. Stay tuned! As usual, FairyTales places a larger concentration on Ca- nadian queer film and video and this year is no different. Video artist Deirdre Logue (Why Always Instead Of Just Sometimes) and Documentary filmmaker Maya Gallus Girl( Inside) will both have works exhibited in the festival’s spotlight on women and beauty on Sunday, May 31st. Peter Kingstone’s philosophical arthouse porn The Astounding Adventures Of Strongman And Quickboy will screen along with Mexico’s sexually-potent Bra- madero late night Friday, June 5th. David Geiss has created an excellent docudrama based on the life of queer activist Doug Wil- son in Stubblejumper on Sunday, May 31st and can be expected to attend. Furthermore, talented young filmmaker Heather Tobin’s lesbian romantic drama To Each Her Own will screen on Saturday, June 6th. There will also be a cinematic smattering of Canadian short films throughout the ten days of the festival featuring works by both emerging and established queer Canadian film and video artists. Two-Spirit Focus

FairyTales will have special focuses on women in film and health and wellness, but their largest spotlight will shine on the work of Two-Spirit Canadian filmmakers. “Thanks to the generosity of the Canada Council for the Arts, we are able to assemble what we hope to be a stellar line-up of Two-Spirit artists and First Nations filmmakers who are allied to Two-Spirit visibility.” Salton explains. “There will be Two-Spirit films and videos shown throughout the festival and in addition, a three-day marathon that will include contemporary and classic Two-Spirit films with a televised panel discussion relating to the aesthetic of Two-Spirit film and video and how as an industry, we can continue to increase their visibility.” The project calls itself The Secret Weapons Manifesto based on the title of former Albertan resident Adam Garnet Jones’ latest video installation piece Se- cret Weapons which entreats marginalized groups, particularly Two-Spirited persons to stand up and be each other’s secret weapon. Other confirmed and unconfirmed guests include; Gail Maurice who is probably best known in front of the screen as the title character of Johnny Greyeyes which will be screened on its original 35mm format on Wednesday, June 5th – she is a dynamic force behind the camera as well. Saskatchewan video

GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine #66, April 2009 51 Art Review Polaroids Art Gallery of Alberta Debuts Major Canadian Artist

By GayCalgary Staff

The Art Gallery of Alberta presents POLAROIDS: Attila Richard Lukacs and Michael Morris from March 7–May 18, 2009. This exhibition showcases over 3,000 Pola- roid photographs by Alberta-born and Vancouver-based painter Attila Richard Lukacs that have been produced over the last 20 years. Internationally known for his monumental paintings, Lukacs has also been creating small, intimate Polaroid photographs that have served as figurative studies for his paintings. In a unique artistic collaboration, the photographs were selected and assembled by fellow artist Michael Morris. They offer a new look into Lukacs’ working process and his way of thinking through images. Lukacs’ painterly sensibility is evident in the rich hues, deep shadow and romantic sensuality of these photographic studies. The works make reference to art history, from classical sculpture to baroque painting. They also expose the unique characteristics of the Polaroid medium, which has been used by artists such as Andy Warhol, Ansel Adams and Robert Mapplethorpe. Since Polaroid announced it was halting production of its classic instant film in early 2008, these photographs have become a historical document of a soon-obsolete medium.

Responding to the seriality and narrative potential of the images, Polaroids Michael Morris has created vibrant, thematic grids that uncover Lu- kacs’ process of working with the live model and his intense study of  March 7th – May 18th, 2009 the male form. Collections of representations of men are rarely located  Art Gallery of Alberta outside the arenas of fashion and sport, and infrequently transcend Enterprise Square, 100-10230 Jasper Avenue these genres. POLAROIDS provokes important questions about representations of the male body and the tradition of the nude study, while Edmonton offering extraordinary insights into the subject of the human form.  (780) 422-6223  www.artgalleryalberta.com Community Event Absolutely Flawless: Coronation 33 ISCCA Soon To Crown New Royalty

By Dallas Barnes

As the sun peaks out from the clouds and the tem- perature slowly rises, a sense of renewal fills the air. For the Imperial Sovereign Court of the Chinook Arch (ISCCA), and Emperor 32 Michael Wolf-Would Myte and Empress 32 Nina Tron, the month of April demonstrates this renewal by electing a new Em- peror and Empress for the 33rd Coronation on April 18th. For those of you that are unfamiliar with the ISCCA, it is im- perative for you to understand this most gracious and historic establishment. The ISCCA is the oldest GLBT organization in Calgary, part of a larger body known as the International Court System founded in San Francisco in 1965 by an individual known as Jose The Widow Norton. Calgary’s charter began in 1976 as six people got together and organized a committee to establish a Court in Calgary. After applying to the Mother Court of Canada in Vancouver, a charter was granted and the ISCCA was established. Many local charities have benefitted from the dedication and perseverance of this year’s members. Generous donations have been made to The Children’s Wish Foundation, Beswick House AIDS Hospice, Agape Hospice for the Terminally Ill, AIDS Calgary Positive Living Lunch Program, and HIV Peer Support. More financial aid has also been donated to funds in honour of Stacey and Onyxx Myte VonBearstein, as well as candidate for the untimely deaths of two community members: Sandra Casey the position of Emperor: Joey Hailey. Each has been canvassing and Imperial Sovereign Grace Grand Duke 14 and 21, Too Tall for the last month for your vote. The Court wishes the best for Tony Bishop-Towers. Emperor 32 Michael Wolf-Would Myte these individuals. would like to thank all businesses and supporters that have donated their time and money to helping these charities. “We For Emperor 32 Michael Wolf-Would Myte has mixed emo- would like to acknowledge the community and city of Calgary tions about passing on the crown. He is quite excited about for their undying and everlasting support over the past year, getting his life back and refilling his wallet, but will miss the as we have repeatedly asked them to empty their wallets night work he has done and the community around him. For the next after night to further our cause. We cannot thank you enough, Emperor and Empress he wishes them the best and says “Ha! as your continued support is what makes the ISCCA success- Ha! Your turn!” ful and viable. To all our in-town businesses who have lent Voting day is April 11th at the Backlot between noon and support through donation and/or giving us space to raise funds midnight. Anyone in the community can vote so long as they whether through shooter bars, coat checks or barbeques, etc, are of legal age, and reside within the 403 area code. But we thank you for donating your time/space/equipment/prod- before you vote, get to know the candidates in our “Running for uct, as it was instrumental in our success.” Royalty” feature on page 38. The outgoing Emperor is proud of the work the ISCCA has The Coronation will be on April 18th starting at 6pm sharp. done this past year. Admitting there were both good times and This year it will be held at the Westin Hotel on 4th Street and bad, he realized that these small trials brought everyone closer 4th Avenue SW. There will be individuals in attendance from together, and made everyone stronger as a team. “Shortly into all across Canada and the United States, and performances the 32nd reign, the Elected Emperor Ashley Carmichael was that are out of this world. The crowning of the new Emperor forced to resign due to health complications. This meant that and Empress will take place, as well as the handing out of the next in line was Elevated to the position of Emperor, this funds from the previous year. being Michael. Later on, due to personal reasons our Princess Royale Anita Lay resigned, elevating Malibu Stacey to the posi- The ISCCA has proved time and time again that through good tion.” Regardless, the ISCCA did not falter, and remained as times and bad, the spirit of charity has never faltered. Take the strong and as dignified as it ever was. time to vote for the new Emperor and Empress, and continue to support an organization that has never stopped supporting April will surely be a busy month for the outgoing Emperor, their community. and the electees vying for their chance at being Emperor and Empress. Aspirants to the Throne of Emperor 33 and Empress For a complete list of Coronation Events, please refer to page 18 or check 33 are Argintina Hailey-Santos, Bianca LaBouche, Malibu out http://www.iscca.ca

GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine #66, April 2009 53 Celebrity Interview Dallas Green Catching Up with Juno Award Winner

shop on Granville street for his interview. Dallas was gearing up By Jason Clevett for his show-stealing duet with Gord Downie of the Tragically Hip, of Sleeping Sickness at the broadcast. A few more things you should know about Dallas “The first time we did that song live was in Calgary (at Virgin Green: He won a Juno Award (for songwriter of the Festival) and the second time will be tomorrow night. We had year), he gives great hugs, and he doesn’t hate the been talking and planning to rehearse and he was busy and I Junos. was recording the new Alexisonfire record so we decided to do it when we just got there.” “Everyone thinks I hate them, but I am just saying what I think. I don’t do music for awards. People ask if I am excited, Green is someone who is always busy, juggling two bands sure it is exciting but I was more excited to play a show where and being constantly on tour. In addition to City and Colour, I know the people coming like the music as opposed to being he is also in Alexisonfire, whose new albumOld Crows / Young sent 100 CD’s and pick which ones they like the best. That is Cardinals is set to be released this summer. the way awards work,” Green told GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine. “We finished it on Tuesday. I think it is going to knock people’s socks off. I am very proud of what it is so far. It hasn’t Dallas seemed to be targeted by the media as a major story. been mixed or mastered yet but we are finished recording. It is At a press conference he was quoted as saying the awards were different, George is doing a lot more singing, I think Wade and I “hokey.” are screaming more than George does. It still sounds like us.” “I wouldn’t have ever said the word ‘hokey’, I probably used Before the album comes out, Dallas has one last short tour the word confusing. I am a little confused by the award process with City and Colour to come. He will play the Jubilee Auditori- and why certain people are nominated and others aren’t. I um in Calgary on May 20th. We had a sneak peak at what was think they should come out with a handbook for the recently to come at his show in Vancouver. nominated that describes the process,” he replied during his press conference. “The Junos have a few awards where the “I was kind of worried because the last time we played was nominations are based on sales. There are a lot of great Cana- January, and we didn’t practice before the show. We did sound dian bands that don’t make those sales. Over time they have check and it was like, uh oh, maybe we should have practiced. changed that to include more artists, and I think that is great We got on stage and it felt great. I think I was delirious so that but I would like to see it opened up more. There continues to be is why I was talking so much.” great Canadian bands that don’t get any notice.” Green is a natural storyteller. With his parents and wife He clarified further in an interview with us the next day. (Much Music personality Leigh Miller) in the audience, he told stories about getting in trouble for leaving to catch frogs in the “I think since the beginning of [the Junos] they have progres- gully with a friend, or the awkwardness of being in a friend’s sively opened up more categories and I think they still need to room while his mom is standing at the door yelling at him. open up more. There are lots of bands - why try and shove 100 alternative bands into one 5 nominee category, when you could “I don’t think it is funny I just tell stories about my life. have separate categories and recognize the Canadian music Sometimes I think people are laughing at me – oh he is tell- industry, like they say they are doing,” he said, admitting that ing another bad story. People always ask, ‘are you a sad guy’ he was surprised at the media response around him. “Maybe because of my music. I am actually usually pretty happy, but it is because all of the interviews I did. When people asked me when I am sad or down I write a song about it. It isn’t about what I thought and I gave my answer, they all agreed with me. always being sad. When I play music I am very happy. You get It seems like everyone agrees that it is a little confusing. I am into the mood of the song. I dedicated a song to my wife and not saying that I know how to do it, maybe I am ignorant as screwed it up on purpose because I thought it would be funny. to how it works and they need to make it a little clearer to the The mood of a song at home you go to listen to it and connect uninitiated.” on that level, but when you go to a show it should be more about the experience instead of being exactly like listening to the record at home.” “Sometimes I think people are laughing at me – oh he A City and Colour show is a unique experience. The Vancou- is telling another bad story. People always ask, ‘are ver show started with Haris Cehajic playing an acoustic version you a sad guy’ because of my music. I am actually of Bohemian Rhapsody to a massive 6singalong before Dalls usually pretty happy, but when I am sad or down I took the stage. write a song about it.” “He does that all the time. When we toured in January in the states Harris had said he had been learning this thing on the internet. So instead of having an intro with music, he became We kind of stalked Dallas over the course of Juno weekend. the intro. It sets the stage that it is not a serious thing, the mu- First, we attended his sold out show in the Orpheum Theatre sic is serious but there is a fun part to the show. I like it to be in downtown Vancouver on March 26th. Then we attended more of a hang out as opposed to this sad musical experience.” a media press conference to unveil the Juno awards set on March 27th. March 28th we met up with him at Juno Fan-Fare, We caught up with Dallas one last time after the Juno whereupon we later regrouped, away from the cold, in a coffee Continued on Page 57  54 GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine #66, April 2009 GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine #66, April 2009 55 Event Spotlight GayCalgary at the Junos Vancouver Rocks with Canadian Music

McDonald to win and that didn’t happen. We were the benefi- By Jason Clevett ciary of their trying to create drama,” rockers team captain Jim Cuddy said. “It has been a very good gathering of the tribe. The I absolutely loved the entire Juno 2008 experience NHLers are such great guys and so generous with their time. in Calgary, so when Vancouver was announced as I would rather be here tonight than some industry party. This the host for 2009, it made sense to fly out for a week is a really great kickoff to Juno weekend, which is really about celebrations.” of Canada’s best music. Last year’s ARGRA rodeo headliner Aaron Pritchett played Friday afternoon began with a tour of the VIP lounge at the in the game for the first time, and spoke to GayCalgary and Shangri-la hotel, which also took us to see the spa and suites, Edmonton Magazine afterwards. which most of the journalists present couldn’t possibly afford. Then it was off to the 1000 square foot lounge. Celebrities and “I did assist on the tying goal that put us to the shoot out. It VIP’s visited throughout the weekend, taking in the panoramic is a wicked thing to be a part of. All of these ex-hockey players view of downtown Vancouver and partaking in snacks and I looked up to for so many years - playing with your musical cocktails. Swag is one of the things found at any type of awards idols as well - is just a dream come true. It is a really big day presentation, and this was no exception: guests were treated to for me,” he said. “I didn’t know they had never won in six sea- jeans, iPod covers, and saxx underwear. sons. They finally win lucky seven!” The Commodore Ballroom is a historic venue in downtown Kathleen Edwards was busy herself. In addition to playing Vancouver, both for its location, age, and the fact that so many the hockey game, she opened for City & Colour the night before incredible bands have played there. This was the site of the in concert, and also performed with Bryan Adams at the Juno Welcome Gala. VIP’s mingled while snacking on sushi, chicken broadcast. skewers, and mushroom croquettes. The highlight of the evening was a set by DJ Brace, who would later win the Instru- “The rest of the weekend could be shit because this was real- mental Album of the Year Juno - and his set proved why. ly fun. It was a great kickoff,” she said. She did regret that she was the only girl on the ice since Sarah McLachlan had to pull “What I am really happy about is to bring this to wherever I out due to an injury. “I was hoping she would be my companion can,” Brace told GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine. “What in this. The guys are great and a lot are friends so it was easy. I am doing right now is something very new that allows me to It is awesome to be on the team that won for the first time. I am play notes on my turntable. So I can get down the way I used to still in shock that we won. I will be back next year, I have to without needing a live band. I am still performing in the way I keep my good name and score some more points.” am used to. ...I like to play in obscure places, so a lot of places I play are not hip-hop related because I want to educate people. The Juno weekend truly is an experience, with more than Playing the Gala was a challenge but I am really glad I had it.” 100 artists playing in the city. While we didn’t make it to any of the JunoFest shows, we did brave the rainy weather to head It was then across town to the UBC campus and Thun- down to Granville Street. Fans lined up for hours to meet bands derbird Arena, for the annual Juno Cup. The fundraiser for like The Cancer Bats, Dallas Green, The Stills, Sam Roberts MusiCounts pitted former NHL greats against Juno nominees Band, Doc Walker, Aaron Pritchett, Divine Brown and many and musicians. With literally seconds to go, the rockers tied the more. game at 11 points each, and made history in a shoot out to win for the first time in 5 years. “It is nice to get to talk to people who buy the record. People say things like it means a lot to them and that is always nice, “I would imagine next year they (the NHL) won’t be so easy on as much as I feel weird about it. I don’t see what the big deal is us. I think what they wanted was for it to be tied and for Lanny but I understand what it means to meet someone who has done something that means a lot to you. It is nice to have an interaction with the people who make you who you are,” Green told us in an interview. “It was an interesting event. To be quite honest I don’t think everyone knew who we were, they were there to see Sam Roberts because he is so handsome,” said Tim Fletcher of The Stills, who won Best Alternative Album and Best New Group. “For the people that did know who we were I think it was very important for them, and we were really happy to have been there. I think it meant a lot to the people that it meant something to, and it meant a lot for us to be there for them.” “It is always good to get down to who we do it for, which is the fans. We wouldn’t have awards or things like houses if it weren’t for the fans, which are the most important thing,” added Doc Walker’s Chris Thorsteinson The Juno Awards Gala took place at the Westin Bayshore on Saturday night. Last year dragged a bit at four hours, but

56 GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine #66, April 2009 Event Spotlight Celebrity Interview this year smoothly came in at three hours and had a number  Dallas Green - From Page 54 of amusing highlights. To say Jane Bunnett was happy to win Contemporary Jazz Album of the year would be an understate- Awards. No longer a Juno nominee, he spoke to reporters after ment. As one reporter put it, she was “drunk with happiness” at winning the Songwriter of the Year and performing in front of a the win. She was highly entertaining, if a little odd, posing with packed GM Place, and millions on television. the Juno on her head and calling Stephen Harper an asshole, “Well the Raptors won in overtime and we have won four in a much to the delight of reporters. row now, so that is exciting. I was on the red carpet texting with It is hard not to be in awe of iconic singer Buffy Saint Marie, friends and that was more stressful. Once that was over, sing- who won best Aboriginal album. ing with Gord Downie on national television was no big deal,” he quipped. “It has been a great week. The show on Thursday “Be smart and take care of yourself and your gift. It is a gift at the Orpheum was amazing; it is one of the best places in we carry as musicians and creative people. I think so often it Canada to sing in. Meeting the people who are responsible for is easy to get detoured in a way by all of the temptations and who you are at Fanfest is great. I think a lot of people forget lack of stability. Get enough sleep, take a bath now and then that the kids buying the records are 90% of it because other- and don’t miss the airplane,” she said to GayCalgary when wise you are playing to no one. Getting to play with Gord and asked what advice she would give to the 89 first time nominees. my friends that I have known since I was a teenager, and stand “Learn to dance, it keeps you skinny.” on that stage, and to win the songwriter of the year award is Humanitarian Award recipient Sarah McLachlan didn’t speak amazing.” to media on Saturday evening, but did do photos. I walked by It has been an eventful year for Dallas Green since we spoke her on the way to the bathroom, which was a highlight of the to him last May. Critical and mainstream success, sold out weekend. Also a highlight were the Barenaked Ladies, who won shows, a US tour, awards, and most importantly marrying his best children’s recording for Snacktime. Their interview ended long time girlfriend Leigh in January. Green was asked if the with Ed Roberts freestyling about winning the award, which events of the last few months of his life affect his songwriting. can be found on YouTube. “I have been with my wife since before I wrote Bring Me Your Afterwards we headed to the RockSTAR and PLAY MPE party Love and will hopefully be with her after the next album, hope- at Lift Restaurant on the harbour. This beautiful venue was fully that works out. I tend to just write songs about things that packed with industry professionals and celebrities who danced, are happening to me. The first record I wrote in high school drank, and literally did backflips. It was a perfect ending to the when I was bummed out about relationships. I wrote Bring Me evening. Your Love when I was already in love so I didn’t have to write Sunday night was the Juno Awards. Due to the overwhelm- heartbreak songs because there are enough fake love songs out ing media response initially we were not able to join in at the there. I am going to be on tour with Alexisonfire for the next media room, so instead we were supposed to be watching couple of years and I think that will influence the next City and the show from the press box. However, many of the media Colour record more than my marriage.” that RSVP’d did not show up (don’t ask me why, but I am not complaining) and partway through we were escorted down to do Q&A with Juno Award winners. Sadly, we missed Sarah McLachlan literally by three minutes. In addition to singing a Dallas Green, City and Colour bit of “Adia” for the reporters, she was gracious enough to take photos with many present. The one downside to an otherwise  May 20th, 2009 great weekend.  Jubilee Auditorium We did get to speak with new artist of the year Lights as well  http://www.cityandcolour.ca/ as Loverboy and Nickelback. Comic Russell Peters, who hosted for the second year in a row, cracked up the reporters. He opened the show with a tribute to Bollywood dancing. “That will never happen. That was a one-off special for you guys in honor of the heavy south-Asian population,” he said. He then cracked up when on the photo side of the room someone knocked over a light rig. “You loser! You are the worst paparazzi ever! You’re papa klutzy!” The 2009 Junos was certainly a success. Like last year, GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine was treated as an equal member of the media, as any other outlet. While the 2010 Juno Awards in St. Johns may not be on the radar for us, you can bet we will be attending again and bringing you the best in Canadian Music. Due to press deadlines, not all Juno coverage could be submitted for this issue. Look for more from the 2009 Juno’s in our May Edition! GayCalgary & Edmonton Magazine would like to thank the following for making Juno week possible: Russ Lloyd, Kathryn Holmes & Holmes Creative Communication, CARAS, Cristina Fernandez, Jessica Dunn, Eric Alper, Shamus Neeson, Lainey Liu, and all of the other publicists, artists, friends and fellow journalists that made Vancouver such a great time.

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ARGRA Dance - Calgary Bare as you Dare at Calgary Eagle

Comedy Night at Play - Edmonton

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Woodys Anniversary

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Junos - Vancouver (photos by BTJ McDonald) Queers on Campus: Gay for a Day March - Calgary

Stardust Lounge at Boots - Edmonton (photos by Karen Hofmann)

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Dirty Bird Awards at the Calgary Eagle Glam Slam at Liberty Lounge - Calgary

St. Patrick’s Day in Calgary

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