June 2013

PUBLISHER’S CORNER Our second issue! Wow!!! This has been a great ride so far and this issue is packed full of information about Burlesque performers around Denver as well as around the country. The boys are hot as hell! lol

PUBLISHER

C.C. De’Ore contributors Ladycat Travis Walgreen Morgan Mercer XXandar Star Kirkland Sable West Lamar

We also got a chance to talk to Auraor Sexton, a Denver native and a real beauty! She deserves the Title as National Entertainer of The Year.

We also got to talk to Pageant Beauty winner, Miss Vicki Valentino.

She’s is grace and beauty personified, make sure you read the article because she’s definitely a gem!

As always. FACTOR believes in bridging heart and home with fun and fancy and will entertain you as best we can with every issue! SO check us out and see what we’ve got to entertain you with!

3 Ask XXandar

The World of BURLESQUE 4 6 MONTHLY MIND FUCK

photos by Norman Dillon Rod Alan Wildeman Diego Carrillo Jesse Hernandez

8 DRAG WORLD

AURORA SEXTON

9

Photographs provided by: Anthony Meade, Dave Ouano, Louis Boroff and Mike White

11 Colorado Pridefest 2013 Investitures for the 40th Reign 13 14 Drag Show of the month

Vicki Valentino 15 17 A

Teen’s Story 19

R.I.P.

Kenny Kerr

Hair Factor

Well another month has come, so it is time to answer some questions and give you an thought. I find Pet Peeves can be humorous or irritating, my number one PP is...People wearing white socks without shoes around the house or outdoors, this drives me crazy!!!

If I wear white socks and they still look a little discolored after one use I will get rid of them, I don’t buy white socks a lot, so I do wear colored ones more than anything! I also find that people that don’t use turn signals should never drive and should have there license taken away....Yes that is extreme and I know that won’t be a possibility LOL ! But it does still drives me batty.

I know people that have the same PP, and others have some great/unusual ones also, Like some people won’t talk to people if the don’t have perfect white teeth, I think that is more of a fetish, but they are passionate about it, like I am about white socks. I think an OCD is involved in PP, like the one being created here, using PP as a short cut for pet peeves, starting to irritate me lol!

So what are your Pet Peeves? give us an answer on FACTORS Facebook page or @ askxxander2013@gmail.com.

Now onto some Q and A’s...

Dear Xxandar, I don’t have a lot of friends, well close friends, I know many people and think that they would be cool to hang with, but I heard they don’t want to hang with me, because I am a bitch because of my look. I feel I am normal, but I do know about that look on my face that I get that I don’t know is there. How do I overcome this?

Normal Bitch Dear Normal, I would find out from mutual friends if you have interests in common or just bite the bullet and start talking to them, break the ice. Be the bigger person and you might find a good friendship or that they are just really superficial and you might not want to be around them anyway, at least you would know!

Ask Xxandar will be here monthly but can also be found on our Facebook page, Ask Xxandar!

Gay Pride Contest 2013

July 2013!

Packets are ready and available now! Contact Martini Monroe on Facebook or jlodenver@comcast.net for a packet or for more information!

The World of Burlesque

Told by those who live it... By Morgan Craig

Stage Name:

Vivienne Vavoom

Style of Burlesque?

Classic

How long have you been in the business of burlesque? Since 1998

all teaching convention that teaches everything from taxes to tap dance- performers teaching performers.

When did you start doing your style of Burlesque to make it your own? In 1998 How did Burlesque start and what is the difference between it and stripping?

It started in the 1870’s with Lydia Thompson. She took a satirical theater art form that was done completely by men, cast all women and put the women in men’s costumes which were basically tunics and tights- it was very scandalous to see the full form of a woman’s leg, (and sometimes they wore full body stockings to appear ‘nude’). That mix of sex and satire has been in burlesque ever since.

Burlesque is stripping, but the difference between burlesque stripping and modern stripping is context?

Burlesque has always been theater and has always contained strip tease. There is not a lot of teasing in modern stripping.

You teach Burlesque, who comes to your classes? How would you start them out first to know and how do you teach them to evolve the art to make it there own?

Women of all ages, from 18 to 75 have taken classes from Vivienne VaVoom’s School of Burlesque in the last 7 years. I encourage them to incorporate their own personalities and interests into their numbers so they are truly creating their own unique art.

Before doing Burlesque, what type of person were you and how did burlesque transform you as a person if it has?

I was extremely shy and burlesque really helped me come out of that shell. I was very skinny with no boobs and when I started in burlesque I thought I would be just a producer, never a performer, but I learned that any woman of any size could do it. It was a real confidence builder!

Do you hold any titles, run any shows?

I won Most Classic and received April March’s Tomorrow’s Legend award at the Boston Burlesque Expo, http://www.burlesque-expo.com/home.cfm I’m also Miss Modernism, which I won last year with my blue fan dance at the Denver Modernism Show http://denvermodernism.com/. I don’t run any shows at the moment.

In conclusion, What frienships, travels etc.. have you made/done, that has effected you as a person? What do you want people to know about Burlesque and or you that you want people to know? I was invited to New Zealand to perform and teach last year- it was amazing to see what a great scene was happening on the other side of the world. Also my book, Burlesque and the New Bump-n-Grind was translated in to Finnish, so I was able to perform and do a little press tour in Helsinki.

The world wide burlesque community is fantastic and very giving. Everyone seems to want to help each other out to make the community stronger and make everyone’s performances better. I love BurlyCon http://burlycon.org/ in Seattle - it’s a great

Stage Name: Midnite

Martini

What is your style of Burlesque: Aerial/ Circus Burlesque and Classic with a twist of modern quirky How long have you been in the business of burlesque?

I started Burlesque in 2005. Actually my very first show I was only 20 years old so they had to sneak me in the back door of the bar to perform!

When did you start doing your style of Burlesque to make it your own?

From the start I used my training and experience in aerial and circus and tried to infuse it with Burlesque. So I’d say my style is a sort of classic with a modern carnie twist. My style has definitely refined itself though over the years, and I’d say really over the past three years I’ve played with switching up styles and exploring comedic, total classic, neo-modern, etc.

What in your opinion is burlesque and what is the misconception? performance art that has a message behind it.

The word Burlesque derives from the Italian word Burlesco which means joke, ridicule, or mockery. So at it’s root burlesque was a vehicle to make social commentary and a way to poke fun at taboos and high society. Women were on stage showing an ankle because it was pushing the norms and making a statement! Nowadays I feel like the neo-burlesque movement still pushes norms, challenges conceptions, and especially pushes the social constructs of what “beauty” and “sexy” are.

Women are sexy when they are silly, poking fun at themselves, big, small, curvy, thin, young, old,

creative with a new idea, raw in their emotion, etc. Even the very classic acts are alluring because of the tease, not the overtly sexual in-your-face moves, but the simple long peel of a glove.

Before doing Burlesque, what type of person were you and how did burlesque transform you as a person if it has?

I was very shy and introverted before Burlesque and performing has definitely helped me come out of my shell and get more comfortable talking to people. But the biggest difference I feel is that when I first started I think I used Burlesque as a way to shield myself. Protect myself and put up defenses.

Burlesque was a shiny glittery mask I could put on and not really show myself because I was too afraid or unsure. Over the years it has really transformed as I have transformed. As I have gotten to know myself and connect to myself more my performance now has become not a mask but an avenue to show myself. A way to reveal myself to the audience (literally and figuratively) in a more raw and honest way. I’m not afraid to show myself and in fact it feels so much better than trying to hide. It is so rewarding to perform in a vulnerable and real way.

And the feedback and change I’ve felt in doing this has only reinforced and helped support my personal growth to be more vulnerable and open to connection with people in my real life.

Do you hold any titles, run any shows?

I won Best Soloist at the Great Burlesque Festival in 2010, won Most Innovative Move by the Burlesque Innovation Guild, and have competed for Queen of Burlesque at the Burlesque Hall of Fame in Las Vegas. I’ve also been voted in the Top 50 Figures in Burlesque by 21st Century Burlesque Magazine in 2011 & 2012.

I also produce Midnite’s Sexy Sideshow every Friday at Lannie’s Clocktower Cabaret http://lannies.com/?p=8017 And also have a new Teasin’ in the 90’s Burlesque Revue show coming up in June! http://lannies.com/?p=22833 In conclusion, What frienships, travels etc.. have you made/done, that has effected you as a person? What do you want people to know about Burlesque and or you that you want people to know?

I have met some of the most passionate, accepting, creative, inspiring, and compassionate people in this industry. People who push the limits and challenge social taboos, but who also are open to accepting of every walk of life and those who might feel shunned by other groups.

I personally came to burlesque from the traditional musical theatre and dance world and with that had struggled with bulimia for over 7 years of my life. I had horrible body image and self worth and the traditional dance and theatre world perpetuated all the things I hated about myself. I was too short, I was Asian so wouldn’t be a leading lady, I needed the hourglass figure otherwise I wouldn’t get a job, my voice was too low, I just wasn’t good enough.

And when I walked away from that world and found burlesque and circus they accepted and loved me with open arms. Here I felt no pressure to be one way or the other because burlesque and circus loved and accepted everything. It celebrated “flaws” and “realness.” And I became healthier inside and out for finding this world and having this world accept me. So not only are the people in this community mentors, friends, family, inspirations, motivators, and business partners. They are also what I consider to be my salvation.

The World of Stage Name:

Lucky Charming

How long have you been in the business of boylesque?

I’ve only officially been involved in burlesque for a little over a year, but I’ve been taking my clothes off on stage for other reasons for about five years. It was the logical next step.

myself as a masculine sexual being...something I don’t always feel I am able to do in the real world.

Burlesque, and boylesque especially, is often an enigma for those who have never seen it, and the best way to understand it is to just get out there and see it!

What friendships, travels, etc. have you made/ done that have affected you as a person? What do you want people to know about burlesque and/or you?

Every trip and person that I have met has aided in my personal and professional growth. I have learned something integral from each situation and am grateful for every lesson and experience that I have been fortunate to have as a performer. It is truly an honor to be surrounded by talented and inspiring

When did you start doing your style of Boylesque to make it your own?

The character of Lucky Charming is very impish and playful. I often like to take male archetypes in pop culture and queer them up a bit, like James Bond or Edward Cullen. My ultimate goal though is to make people laugh...and feel dirty while doing it.

What in your opinion is boylesque and what is the misconception?

I really don’t think it’s any different from burlesque, aside from being performed by maleidentified people. It’s a striptease performed with a character and an arc, and often a bit of humor. A lot of folks who haven’t seen a boylesque show before expect something more in the Chippendales category, but it’s a very different experience. It’s an opportunity for people with less traditionally beautiful bodies to be seen as sex symbols and win the crowd over with wit and glamor. The main focus is the theater...the sex is just a bonus.

Before doing Boylesque, what type of person were you and how did burlesque transform you as a person if it has?

I’ve always been a pretty shy person. I don’t think this has changed much in the last year, but boylesque has taught me to fake confidence and push my own boundaries a lot more. I’ve become much more confident as a performer especially. Before I discovered burlesque, I was becoming painfully exhausted as an actor...going to auditions and not having much luck due to my short stature and boyish face. But both of these traits are welcomed in the burlesque world, and now I’m performing on a regular basis and actually making a bit of cash doing it.

Do you hold any titles, run any shows?

I haven’t won anything yet (I am still fairly new, after all) but I was nominated for a Glam Award for Best Burlesque last year in New York. I am hoping to start producing in the next couple of months, but I don’t have my name stamped on any shows yet.

In conclusion, What frienships, travels etc.. have you made/done, that has effected you as a person? What do you want people to know about Boylesque and or you that you want people to know?

I am constantly inspired by my friends in burlesque. My brain is much more active because ideas keep pouring in and out when I’m around them. After spending my entire life as a weirdo, I feel like I’m finally sitting at the cool kids’ table...with all the other weirdos!

When I first signed on to take my first burlesque class, some of my friends didn’t get it. They pictured me twirling tassels on my nipples. They imagined some big drag gender-f*ck visual. There is a place in burlesque for all these things, but they are not a requirement and they are not what I do. I am ferociously seizing this opportunity to showcase

Do you hold any titles or run any shows?

I do not run any shows presently, but I do hold titles in Boston (Most Beautiful 2007 and Most Classic 2010), Atlanta (Southern Fried Queen, Most Innovative, and Most Classic 2012), London (2nd Runner up for Queen of Burlesque 2012), and Austin (Best Costume 2011).

Stage Name:

Miss Orchid Mei

What is your style of burlesque?

I perform in the “classic” genre of burlesque.

How long have you been in the business?

I have been in the business for 9 years and counting!

When did you start doing your style of burlesque to make it your own?

Before I started performing, I did a lot of research so I knew that classic burlesque was what I was aiming for. When I began actually performing, the troupe that I was with encouraged everyone to try different veins so that we could see what fit. Fortunately, classic was it!

What, in your opinion, is burlesque and what is the misconception?

To me, burlesque is the perfect integration of theater and striptease. It is witty, comical, satirical, political, and quintessentially honest and sexy. Burlesque performers pattern themselves out of, and aspire to, preserve the past. We are entertainers, teachers, and historians.

A popular misconception seems to be that a burlesque show is the same as a modern strip club and that the performers fit the stereotype. However, there is indeed a difference between striptease and stripping. A burlesque show is all encompassing and designed to titillate and entertain everyone through the vehicle of allegory whereas a strip show has a more specific purpose and direct execution.

6. Before doing burlesque, what type of person were you and how did it transform you as a person?

Before performing, I was a feather in the wind. I didn’t know which direction I was going and was afraid to be who I was. Burlesque helped me to waken my dormant confidence that I needed to blossom into the person that I am today. I still have work to do, but at least now I have some tools to grow and the strength to handle the challenges that come with it.

Stage Name:

Bobbie Burlesque

What is your style of Boylesque?

Classic and Theatrical with a dark twist How long have you been in the business of boylesque?

I’ve been in the Burlesque Industry since 2004 as a producer. But I’ve been performing BOYLESQUE since July 2006 When did you start doing your style of Boylesque to make it your own?

Right off the bat when I first started performing, I knew what kind of character I wanted to portray on stage. I’ve been performing some of my earliest acts still to this day. However, like any artist in any art form, my style changed and developed with not only experience, but with the ever so changing audience and industry. When I first started, I was more dark, sad, and dramatic. As time went on, I incorporated a little comedy, and a more classic style and look to my performances. Also, with each act I develop, I strive to improve and challenge myself, so each act only gets better and bigger. But I will always stay true to who I was and am from the beginning.

f Burlesque What in your opinion is boylesque and what is the misconception?

-To me, BOYLESQUE is exactly like the traditional Burlesque. Sexy, Alluring, Captivating, Theatrical, Dance, Performance, and Story. The only difference is the performer is a Man, instead of a Woman. A misconception I tend to see with boylesque is that people, especially in Los Angeles, automatically think I am a Drag Performer. They assume I dress as a woman and perform. Or if I say I’m a Stripper, they automatically think of a Chippendales Dancer, or a Porn Star Go-Go Dancer. Then they look at me and can’t see me doing that because of my body.

No offense to those kind of performers, but I don’t do either of those kind of performances. The beauty of Burlesque and Boylesque is that anyone, no matter their size, height, weight, skin color, or sexual orientation can be beautiful and sexy on stage. It’s about the costumes, music, performance, and tease more than anything else.

Before doing Boylesque, what type of person were you and how did burlesque transform you as a person if it has?

I’m what I call in the industry a “Theater Baby” Ever since I was a child, I’ve been involved in the dramatic arts; acting and dancing. I studied theater in school growing up and was always a performer.

I would set up my toys and perform for them. Then as I got older, I was in all the school plays and theater productions, surprisingly always playing the villain. I always knew what Burlesque was, due to my studies of the History of American Theater, but never was able to experience it first-hand. Once I found Burlesque and was able to experience it live, I fell in love. It was where I felt I belonged. It embodies everything I love all into one expression of art. Theater, Costumes, Glamour, Music, Dance, and of course....Sex. Burlesque has allowed me to be at my full potential as a creative artist. I’m able to express everything I’ve ever tried to express in the past all in one theatrical striptease.

Do you hold any titles, run any shows?

I’ve been producing shows for a long time know, and have toured across the Western United States twice now with the Hollywood Burlesque Tour. I currently produce a bi-monthly show in Hollywood, CA at Mbar; Including my Tim Burton Burlesque Show, a Burlesque dedication to the film work of my favorite director and artist: Tim Burton. http://www.BobbieBurlesquePresents.com As a Boylesque Performer, I’ve gone even further gracing the stages of such states as New York, Colorado, New Mexico, Texas, Settle, Oregon, and even went up north the Vancouver Canada gaining International Status. I am known as “The Boy Who Glitters” and recently won Best Novelty/Use of a Prop at the 2013 Texas Burlesque Festival.

In Conclusion, What frienships, travels etc.. have you made/done, that has effected you as a person? What do you want people to know about Boylesque and or you that you want people to know?

Boylesque and Burlesque have opened so many doors for me as a person and has pushed my creative abilities as a producer, teacher, director, and performer. I’ve developed so many relationships with many beautiful people in this industry. I have an extended family all across the

By: Morgan Craig

the world and I will cherish this glittery world forever.

people to know? have been able to perform in NM, Las Vegas, NYC and met some really great people. The troupe I perform in is like family to me and I had the great pleasure of meeting and befriending some of the biggest names in the industry. What do people need to know about boylesque......watch out for me because I am only just beginning. And be on the look out for my new male group:

The Brotherhood of Burlesque.

Stage Name:

Mr. Valdez

What is your style of Boylesque?

Neo - I take classic burlesque and fuse it with hip hop and pop dancing How long have you been in the business of boylesque?

5 years When did you start doing your style of Boylesque to make it your own? since the beginning.

I have been told that in order to be successful in this industry, I have to be more in the classic genre.

And I refuse to fit in to a mold.

What in your opinion is boylesque and what is the misconception?

Boylesque is the male counterpart to burlesque.

The common misconception is that we are just strippers and that we cannot hold our own against the ladies. I just got back from an all male burlesque festival in New York City. So I think we are doing ok.

Before doing Boylesque, what type of person were you and how did burlesque transform you as a person if it has?

I have always been outgoing. I used to have body issues and was deathly afraid of revealing too much. I have been doing this for 5 years and only a year ago would I wear a thong on stage. It has definitely helped in the confidence.

Do you hold any titles, run any shows? From the New York Boylesque Festival...the show was billed as “Featuring the top 20 boylesque acts in the world....” does that count? lol I took runner up for best boylesque at ABurlyQ! last year.

In conclusion, What frienships, travels etc.. have you made/done, that has effected you as a person? What do you want people to know about Boylesque and or you that you want

What is your style of Burlesque?

My style of burlesque is circus freak meets glitter farmer.

How long have you been in the business of burlesque?

I have been performing around Denver since 2007.

When did you start doing your style of Burlesque to make it your own?

I tried really hard at first to fit in classic burlesque box. I tried to find where I fit in the classic bump and grind. Then I created an act to the Song Alabama song (whiskey bar) and everything changed. I suddenly didn’t want to fit in and make myself pretty. I wanted to make the audience feel something, i wanted them to be shocked and have a reaction. I realized then that it is art if it brings out a emotion or reaction, in my opinion. And so the freak show began.

What in your opinion is burlesque and what is the misconception?

I think burlesque can be amazing and a fantastic art form. But I don’t enjoy all burlesque. I want it to be more than a pretty girl taking off a pretty dress, I want it to have a story, a purpose and I want to be drawn in. Just like in the rest of life just showing up is not it, you should give it 100%, don’t phone it in, and if you can’t do that then pack it up and go home! The misconception is that burlesque ladies are chubby strippers who were nerdy in high school and want attention. NO! Burlesque performers I know want to create something, recreate something or just have fun. We are artistic performers and don’t all fit into any set mold.

Burlesque cont.

I have a fantastic Drag family- They have shown me so much more love and acceptance then i received in a lot of the straight burlesque scene. They have helped me in so many ways and taught me about true glamour. I love the open arms that they have offered me, they have taken me in never judging that I was a drag queen caught in a woman’s body.

I also have out of drag friends- they are the people who I have met through these years of madness that will be there for me if I needed anything, they view my family as their own, and I would move the moon and stars to help them in any way. These are the friends that are never shocked when they see me with out lashes or makeup and will always pick me up when I am down.

I wouldn’t change any step in my burlesque/ drag journey because I found a land of glitter, art and madness. This land holds evil monsters, annoying trolls and fantastic travel companions. You are in control of your journey and if it isn’t feeding you , fucking you or paying your bills then you better enjoy it. and NEVER NEVER FORGET.... “What other people think of you is NONE of your business!!” ~Ru Paul

Stage Name:

Lewd Alfred Douglas

What is your style of Boylesque?

I’m mostly inspired by history, not only of burlesque, music hall, and vaudeville - but queer history in general. I like using queer figures like Nijinsky, Ludwig ii, Basmanov, and Elagabalus as a jumping off point. We have such a colorful and under appreciated ancestry.

How long have you been in the business of boylesque?

My first burlesque act was at Bistroteque in London, when I was at art school. I’ve been very graciously welcomed into the NYC Boylesque scene for more than a year and the company I keep continues to amaze me.

2. When did you start doing your style of Boylesque to make it your own?

About a year ago I started to hone my identity as a performer, taking consideration of my limits while also pushing my boundaries.Burlesque started out as a form of satirising recognisable archetypes and characters, so I think even when I do something modern (like Doctor Who or Church Lady) I’m still honoring the history of the form.

What in your opinion is boylesque and what is the misconception?

To me, Boylesque has a sacred duty to show the audience what is beautiful about men. Unfortunately

male sexuality has a history of being ridiculed, shown only as violent or oppressive, conceited, brutish, or comical. Men of all shapes and sizes should love their bodies and respect the bodies of others, and I think Boylesque is a wonderful medium for getting this across in an artful, sexy, and celebratory way.

Before doing Boylesque, what type of person were you and how did burlesque transform you as a person if it has?

Doing Boylesque has eradicated much of the shame I used to feel about my body. It’s not therapy, and it’s not reassurance a performer should be seeking from an audience, of course - as a performer your duty is first to entertain. But in doing burlesque, I’ve been given the tools to know myself more intimately and to appreciate what makes me different rather than bemoan it.

Do you hold any titles, run any shows?

I direct Uncle Monty’s Mollyhouse, which is an immersive Victorian bawdy house. I’m hoping to see it have a permanent home in NYC soon, but so far we have done several very fun shows out of town at museum benefits, Steampunk conventions, and kink events. We also did a send-up of Downton Abbey (Slagtown Abbey) and this summer we’ll be doing Oscar Wilde’s Bachelor Party on July 13th at R Bar! In conclusion, What frienships, travels etc.. have you made/done, that has effected you as a person? What do you want people to know about Boylesque and or you that you want people to know?

Taking the Boylesque 101 class by Go-go Harder really solidified my passion and my confidence that I belonged. My performance history, having studied in London and Prague, and being married to a Russian-born guy, has definitely inspired the cultural homages in the characters I create. I also think that queer and gender queer cultural history is ours to inherit, and to take strength from. Just as female burlesque has become more liberated than in past decades - dancer-driven, more diversity in gender expression, body shape, performance style, and ethnic background - I think Boylesque has been given the tools to liberate itself too. We need not be limited by what mainstream society says men should look or act like. I have seen some truly amazing Boylesque dancers with body types you would never see in a cologne advertisement. Even the most heterosexual man in the audience will come away saying ‘wow.. That was hot.’ And he will feel more sexy in his own body too. That’s good for all of us.I want men, no matter their gender expression and sexuality, to love their own bodies, and respect the bodies of others. Because I am a transsexual man doing Boylesque, I am sometimes the audience’s first intimate encounter with a man like me. So I think it’s very important that I command respect, and deliver beauty and fun. www.gogoharder.com

We want to thank: Trout Imagry, Julia Kuzmenko photography, Broken Glass Photography, Dan Jahn Anna Swiczeniuk and ChaCha Romero for the images used.

MONTHLY MIND FUCK I am in you,

around you I make you or break you Choose me for good, not bad

LAST MONTHS PUZZLE:Deep, deeper I go regal, I am dominating over you Many come to take me in wonderment.

What am I ?

ANSWER: EASTER ISLAND

DRAG WORLD

by Star Kirkland

Are paid entertainers and charity entertainers equal?

You have been asked to be a part of a show. Facebook advertisement says, “Come down this Saturday night. It is going to be a fabulous time. Join me and these amazing entertainers…” Hell, you even talk to people, letting them know where you are performing that upcoming week. Excitement hits the day of the show. You walk into the establishment and the only person present is the bartender. Hours pass by and five people are in the audience. But, the show

MUST GO ON!!!!!!!

Part of entertaining is the expectancy of a crowd can be based on numerous things. The biggest challenge is you have to embrace the atmosphere the venue you are performing. This can happen to anyone regardless of it being a paid show or a charity event. Remember every dollar counts. Here are some aspects on how paid and charity entertainers are equal:

PERFORMANCE This has happened when you are booked for a paid show as well as a charity show. Whether you have 5 people or 500 people, you should give it your all. Give your audience a performance of a lifetime! Those people will follow you to the next show. Plus you will gain a friend or two for every show you perform at. This is where the paid and charity entertainers are created equal. It is all about asking the right questions, no scheduling conflicts, and MARKET!!! MARKET!!!

MARKET!!!! We all are doing this one dollar at a time.

The challenge between paid and charity performers:

In all aspects of performing, performers, cost, and balance, they are all the same. The biggest challenge today is wanting to get paid, versus raising money for charity. The money hungry game is always on everyone’s mind, but time and patience prevails. It doesn’t happen over-night. Being creative in your own craft makes you special. Entertainers; ones who can balance a drag career and raise money for charity are

awesome.

The biggest challenge found today is knowing the history and why entertainers raise money.

Do they know about various pageants in Denver?

Do they know about ICRME and the International Court System?

What it has done for the drag community as a whole?

Do they know the history of Stonewall?

PERFORMER Everyone has their own style of performing. It was makes them unique and special in their own way. Presenting yourself and giving that strength makes the character you are portraying. When that happens the audience embraces you and the performance. Most of all they love what they do when they hit that stage.

COST We all know how much it is to perform. The hair, makeup, jewelry, costumes, shoes, whatever, it does get expensive.

BALANCE Balance your life, career, and the stage. Some choose drag as a career and make great money at it. Some have shown that they can raise a dollar for a non-profit organization while performing for that paycheck. Others have balances with their day jobs, personal lives and go on stage.

Do they care?

Do they know how Ru Paul got started?

Where he came from or why?

Do they know who Divine is?

Are they aware that Divine was the FIRST Gay DRAG Performer on National Television?

Do they know the actual history of Pridefest in Denver?

Do they know that The Mile High Freedom Band, was the first GAY GROUP to March in the St. Patrick’s Day Parade. EVER? And the list goes on...

The biggest challenge is to open your mind and listen to people.

Learn from them!

Story By: Morgan Craig

TRANSGENDERED PERFORMERS IN THE DRAG SCENE I had the pleasure of interviewing Aurora Sexton for this issue. I ‘ve have followed her for many years as I have known her since she first hit the scene.

Aurora has always been a very sweet and kind person, but they drive to be has always been strong. She has never forgotten who she is, who she was but has used it to define her too the person she is today and that is

Aurora Sexton.

MC: Tell me about yourself, where you live, how long you’ve been in the industry, Titles you have won, where you host your shows, all the fun stuff...

AS: Oh girl where to begin? I grew up in Colorado, lived in Chicago for 7 years and currently reside in Nashville. I never thought I would wake up saying I live in Tennessee but it is a beautiful state with great southern culture, amazing music and fun friendly people.

I have been in show business since I was 13. I got started in coffee shops, then clubs and bars as I got older. I began competing in pageants at the same time winning gay youth pageants and later bar/club contests. I started doing national pageants at 21 and it snowballed from there. I have won 2 national pageants - Miss Renaissance and National Entertainer Of The Year. Winning that landed me my current gig in Nashville, you can see me 4 nights a week at Play Dance Bar www. playdancebar.com as well as my monthly one woman show at Kit Kat Lounge in Chicago

www.kitkatchicago.com

I travel book all over the country, to keep up with where I will be at find me on Facebook!

Facebook/aurorasexton and Facebook/aurorasextonfans. Now that I’ve finished with my shameless plugs lets get to the nitty gritty :) MC: How hard is it to get into the national pageantry system? Do you find that once you win one, the others seem to be easier or do they become harder?

AS: It’s not hard to get into pageantry at all, you just have to throw yourself into a pageant!

You have to look at each one as a learning experience, I’ve lost more then I have won but each time I learned something new about myself. Competing next to other queens you learn new tricks, make new friends, network and build a fan base. I think when you have won a national title there is more pressure on you to compete elsewhere. In show business your only as good as your last performance so you have to be consistent. I do feel however, it becomes easier. Over time and experience I have matured, gained self confidence and

awareness, I feel completely comfortable on stage. I also do what I enjoy doing and when your having fun and love what your presenting the audience will live and have fun with you!

MC: What advice do you give to those that are just starting out in the industry?

AS: Do what you want to do, what YOU enjoy.

Don’t be afraid to be different or try something never been done. Thats what makes you memorable. If your not having fun, neither will anyone else. Be yourself and keep it REAL. Don’t try to be anything other then yourself, a genuine personality and passion for what you do will shine above all the glitter and rhinestones. Be grateful for what you have and the people in your life, treat others with kindness and laugh a lot. No one likes an uptight hateful bitch.

MC: What pageantry system do you feel has the hardest contestants to compete against?

AS: I would say Miss Continental. The categories demand a great deal of detail and taste. Several formers have gone onto do film and television, they have inspired mainstream celebrities. It’s a very prestigious title that can open a lot of doors if you choose to utilize them.

MC: What do you think of RuPaul’s Drag Race?

AS: I think it’s been great for drag as far as getting people excited about it and getting it into mainstream America. It’s a wonderful opportunity for the girls that are cast for exposure, travel, bookings and money.

Sometimes it’s hard to swallow that someone doing drag for 8 months is making $1000’s more then you, but such is the power of television and they are all there for a reason whether it be personality or talent. I hate sometimes that they are so nasty and hateful to each other but that is encouraged because it makes for great tv! Go backstage in at any show an you will hear far worse, the best show is always in the dressing room.

Alot of people don’t understand that reality tv is not reality. It’s heavily edited and the producers can create whatever story line that will turn into ratings gold. I know girls that have recieved death threats from crazed fans, lost friends, fans and reputation for how they were presented on television. It’s what you choose to make it and what they choose you to be.

MC: How do you respond to the fact that they don’t really allow transexuals on the show?

AS: I think it’s coming. Look, it’s enough getting America to wrap there head around drag queens, breast plates, stage makeup, our

our lingo and and customs. Integrating transexuals into the mix is tricky. It has to be the right one because ultimately its going to come down to can they compete an an entertainer with costumes/hair/personalty or as Ru puts it, Charisma, Uniqueness, Nerve and Talent :) At the same time, your responsible for explaining transexuals to America, how you can work as a drag queen while identifying as a woman, AND dealing with a room full of queens who want to send your ass packing. Thats ALOT to handle.

To me if they are truly going to show the best drag in America, then show it all.

So many of the queens that have inspired us, paved the way for us and shaped the industry of drag and pageantry were transexuals.

Several contestants have transitioned since the show like Sonique and Carmen Carrera. Their fans have been accepting and remained loyal.

This season they had Monica Beverly Hills who was starting her transition, they’ve been using Candis Cayne (a former Miss Continental and tv actress) as a choreographer, It’s a few cracks in the glass ceiling. Rupaul said on the finale this season that the only requirement to be there is to have charisma, uniqueness, nerve and talent so who knows what can happen!

MC: This past season, Detox admitted he had male implants to enhance his chest, arms and legs, which work’s with his Drag look, How do you feel about that?

AS: I think he’s made his money back!

I have the good fortune of knowing Detox personally, she is one of the nicest and hysterical people I’ve ever met although I can’t hang out with her too often because I always end up in major trouble, blacked out or worse! Detox is not the first contestant to have work done and won’t be the last. If he is comfortable living that way who am I to judge him. In Hollywood and show business in general there is always a pursuit of perfection, pretty/unique people get more work, job offers, more options. How many countless actors/actresses get boob jobs, nose jobs, laser peels, botox, brow lifts, hair plugs,

fat injections, face lifts and thats just what Detox had done this morning! Bottom line, if he is happy with himself and he’s working who cares? She look’s good!

MC: People have been having their say on Facebook lately about how when you start the body modification process and become more “womanlike” your taking away from the illusion and you shouldn’t be called a drag queen any longer? What do you feel about that? How do you respond to that?

This is a very touchy issue for some people.

Whether you refer to yourself as a drag queen/ female impersonator/female illusionist, it’s all the same job description: A man transforming into a woman. We all have different techniques and utilize different tools to get there. The trend for a long time in pageants and drag in general was getting work done, to be believable. I think some trans entertainers depend a little too much on there bodies and less on creativity/costumes/hair/makeup.

Drag is about dressing up and having fun!

Big hair/bright flashy costumes, crazy make up, outrageous everything! For me, growing up a lot of my inspirations were trans queens. I started drag at 13 and made the choice at 16 to transition for personal and professional reasons. I feel what I have done to my body enhances my look, gives me confidence and allows for more wardrobe options. That doesn’t make me a Queen. My creativity, eye for detail, style, taste, makeup and hair skills, sewing and design, humor, personality, my God given talentsTHAT is what makes me a Queen.

Queen/female impersonator/female illusionist, it’s all the same job description: A man transforming into a woman. We all have different techniques and utilize different tools to to get there.

The trend for a long time in pageants and drag in general was getting work done, to be believable. I think some trans entertainers d spend a little too much on their bodies and less on creativity/costumes/hair/makeup. Drag is about dressing up and having fun! Big hair/ bright flashy costumes, crazy makeup, outrageous everything!

MC: In conclusion, What has brought you the most joy and happiness to your life, and what do you want people to know about you, as a person that a majority of us don’t know?

AS: My friends, fans and the people I have met through my life bring me the most joy.

They have given me laughter, love and amazing friendship. I am so grateful to have so MC: What’s your favorite thing about doing much love in my life. I can go almost anywhere what you do? Why? is this country and know somebody, thats a great feeling. I am very blessed!

AS: I love that I get to get up on a stage every If anything I would like people to know under night and be a rockstar. It’s my canvas to tell the hair and makeup, glitz/glam and hype that whatever story I want to whether it’s acting, Im a real person. When your in the spotlight dancing, presenting a beautiful woman or a thats all people get to see, they don’t know grotesque hag I get to channel my that your really a dork or a foodie or insecure creativity into magic. I love watching peoples because we you get on stage it all fades away. faces, making them laugh, scream, grossing What they will remember, is how you treat or freaking them out, their love and energy them. I always take the time to talk and take makes it all worth it. And I make a great living pictures, I’ve made some great friends who on it! happened to enjoy my show. Im grateful and so thankful I have a career doing something MC: What has been your favorite city to visit? I love, getting to travel all over and meet new Why? people and experience so many great things!

I love what I do and I love entertaining people!

AS: How can I choose just one? I have so many! Probably my favorite places to visit aside from where I have lived would be NYC, Dallas, Los Angeles, Salt Lake City, DC, the world is a big place- explore it!

Just live, laugh, love and you can have it all!

MC: Have you had any bad experiences with bars or pageant owners? If so, what did you learn to do differently from the experience?

AS: Oh yes, there are a lot of seedy and shady people in entertainment. You learn to spot and avoid the bad ones, hang onto the good ones and when you have a bad experience deal with it, learn from it and be on your way. Life it too short to dwell on it or make an ass of yourself. Reputation is everything, it takes years to build and seconds to destroy.

Don’t hold grudges, just move on and remember that evil always undoes itself.

Denver PrideFest 2013 will be held June 15th and 16th at Civic Center Park!

Festival Hours:

Saturday, 11am - 7pm Sunday, 10am - 6pm

Parade:

The CoorsLight PrideFest parade steps off from Cheesman park at 9.30am and proceeds down Colfax into Civic Center Park.

Important new safety and park regulations As Denver PrideFest grows (now the 3rd largest festival and seventh largest parade in the nation!), we are subject to increasing regulations and restrictions to obtain our liquor permit for the park.

These new mandates include the addition of fencing and the directive from the City and County of Denver to increase alcohol regulation enforcement at our perimeter.

Just like any other alcohol-serving establishment, we are not allowed to have individuals bringing in or taking out alcoholic beverages. We are also becoming more security conscious. With these two goals in mind, please note the following important changes: The festival will have established entry and exit gates this year at all intersections into Civic Center, near the library to the south, and the Denver Post building to the north.

No outside alcoholic beverages will be permitted; any and all coolers, bags, etc will be checked, and no beverages except factory SEALED bottles will be permitted.

There are water fountains available inside the park and empty water containers will be allowed.

No beverages purchased in the park will be allowed to leave the park.

No weapons of any type will be allowed into the park; all guests entering the festival will be subject to search.

Thank you for your understanding and cooperation as we continue to make our Denver PrideFest the safest and most celebratory in the country.

CIVIC CENTER PrideFest Center Stage: The Ultimate Experience!

You don’t want to miss the live entertainment on the Center Stage at Denver PrideFest! Two days of great national headlining talent and the best local and regional talent will have you on your feet.

The Center is thrilled to announce our 2013 Denver PrideFest Center Stage headliners,

Taylor Dayne and

Martha Wash Dayne and Wash are set to perform at Denver PrideFest on June 15 and 16 in Civic Center Park.

Billboard topping artist Taylor Dayne is best known for her number 1 hits, “Tell It To My Heart”, “Love Will Lead You Back” & “Prove Your Love To Me,” as well as her numerous best-selling gold and platinum albums, which produced seventeen Top 20 singles. Taylor Dayne will perform on Saturday, June 15 at 5pm on the PrideFest Center Stage.

VIP PrideFest passholders will be able to meet Taylor Dayne in the PrideFest VIP area on Saturday, enjoy a beer tasting, food and beverage, and private performer meet and greets. For information on the VIP PrideFest experience, go to: http://glbtcolorado. org/PrideFest_VIPExperience.aspx.

Thirty years after proclaiming “It’s Raining Men!” Martha Wash can be heard singing some of the biggest hits in dance music, including the chart-topping “Gonna Make You Sweat (Everybody Dance Now)” and the inspirational “Carry On.” After earning eight #1 hits and an additional eight Top 10s on various Billboard Charts, she is releasing Something Good, a collection of all new material. Martha Wash will light up the Center Stage on Sunday, June 16, at 3pm.

Dayne and Wash will be joined by other celebrated local and national acts all weekend on The Center Stage and throughout the park.

DENVER DYKE MARCH Saturday, June 15th Blush and Blu, 1526 E. Colfax Avenue, Denver 3pm - Rally and entertainment 4pm - Step off and march to Civic Center Dykes, queers, lesbians, women-loving-women, gays, transpeople, bisexuals, genderqueers, allies, feminists and all other supporters will be there to celebrate our community with the fifth annual Denver Dyke March!

People of all genders, ages, classes, nationalities and sizes will gather for entertainment at the Dyke March rally at 3pm at Blush and Blu on Colfax. At 4pm the march steps off and proceeds down Colfax to Civic Center park.

Interested in performing at the Dyke March Rally?

Contact onyxsteele@gmail.com with any questions.

Interested in riding your motorcyle in the march? Email Patty Owens at owens_patty@yahoo.com Interested in information on the rally?

Email Onyx at the email address above.

PRIDEFEST 2013 The Transgender Resource Area

TAYLOR DAYNE

at Denver PrideFest provides a welcoming shady stop and community resources for the trans community and allies.

SATURDAY’S ENTERTAINMENT HEADLINER

Created and hosted by Center staff and volunteers, the Transgender Resource Area includes information from several trans-inclusive community groups and is a great place to call home during the chaos of PrideFest for the trans community and allies.

Everyone is welcome to join us in the space, located on the shady lawn right behind The Center’s booth on sponsor row. For more information about the resource area at PrideFest, or Transgender programming through The Center email Courtney Gray at: cgray@glbtcolorado.org.

Youth Alley is a safe, fun, and engaging space for youth ages 12 - 21 at Denver PrideFest.

Youth Alley features entertainment, games at agency booths, a lounge area complete with snacks, water,chairs to lounge in and plenty of shade, and a youth stage with music and youth performances throughout the weekend.

A Youth Alley Party will be held on Saturday evening offering food, entertainment and giveaways.

Youth Alley, a substance-free and smoke-free area of Denver’s PrideFest devoted to LGBTQ youth ages 12-21, is lead by The Center and YHAC. It’s a collaboration of many local youthserving agencies. Collaborators will be joined by other youth-serving organizations to provide information on topics of youth wellness including tobacco prevention, drug and alcohol prevention, HIV prevention, suicide prevention, sexual health information and healthy alternatives and options.

For more information about Youth Alley, contact Moises Munoz at The Center.

MARTHA WASH SUNDAY’S ENTERTAINMENT HEADLINER

On May 17th 2013, Investitures was celebrated by Emperor and Empress 40 of I.C.R.M.E. Chase Whitemore and Lushus Larell. The festivities took place at Hamburger Mary’s. This eternal day was celebrated with life, love, and laughter. It was also the day the 40th line of succession was announced, and fabulous entertainment took place.

Chase and Lushus introduce their line of succession, and citizen of realms so they can work together in raising money for other non -profit organizations. To finish off the night they were able to raise about $700.00 for the White Rose Scholarship Foundation.

Look for upcoming events and dates I.C.R.M.E. will be hosting in Denver at www.denvercourt.org

ICRME

Article by: Star Kirkland

THE 40TH LINE OF SUCCESSION Emperor 40 Prince Royale 40 Grand Duke 40 Czar 40 Marquis 40 Don 40 Baron 40 Count 40 Fairy Godfather King Father

Chase Whitmore Ricky B. Jim Babb Tim Williams Simon (Gizmo) Rump Sean Hover Rodd with 2 D’s Bryan Mc Kay Bill Wright John Menchaca

Empress 40 Lushus La’Rell Princess Royale 40 Gabriella But’ Zin Grand Duchess Norrie Reynolds Czarina 40 Star Kirkland Marquessa 40 Amanda Rae Miles Reina 40 Kelly Rose Baroness 40 Stephany Schmidt Countess 40 Angela Casias Fairy Godmother Rosa Marie Sugarbaker Queen Mother Scarlett Fever

Supreme Queen Mother for Life Scotti Carlyle Entertainers to Emperor 40 Chuck Bates, Emperor 13 Fred Vadlez, Emperor 37

Entertainers to Empress 40 Shanida Lawya Madison Monroe Sexton, PR 38 Entertainers to the Reign Nina Montaldo Empress 24 Nucila Waste

Fabulosity run by Miss Alexianna Leigh (Pronounced Lee not Lay) can be seen at Broadways every other Wednesday night.

The cast changes from week to week, so you’ll get new and fresh performances from different entertainers, including: Alexianna Leigh Bootzy Edward Collynz Jade Naya Andrea Staxx Mia Staxx Veruca Salt Valerie Shearz Yasmeen Staxx Electra Dupri and Enzo Spanic Thank you to Roger Vega for the photos

Just a few of the cast members that you will see every other Wednsday night at Broadways!!!

The show also travels annually to Taos to celebrate Taos Gay Pride’s event, as well.

Vicki Valentino, this is one busy girl, but I got my interview! She

has her hand in many pageants of the eastside of Kansas. Mainly in Missouri, her home. In reading her answers and with how busy she is, she has a lot of knowledge about the pageantry system and should be looked as an expert in the field. She has the knowledge and LOVE for it to be doing it for 30 years plus and still going strong!!! I do look up to her!

MC: Tell me about yourself, where you live, how long you’ve been in the industry, Titles you have won, where you host your shows, all the fun stuff.

VV. My Stage name is Vicki Valentino;… My given name is Vincent T. (lol) …..I was born and raised in St. Louis Missouri; I am the last of 6 siblings. My zodiac sign is Aries. I am over 40 and still consider myself as “Fabulous”. I hold a BA in Mass Communications with an emphasis on English Education. I began the art of female impersonation nearly 30 yrs. ago as many others on Halloween.

I’ve won numerous, local, state, regional and 1 National title. To include: Miss Gay Missouri (America) 1995, Miss Missouri Continental 2002, Miss Missouri Continental Elite 2012 and was fortunate to be crowned Miss Gay International in 2007. I am very appreciative and proud of all of my previous titles but the title of Miss Gay Missouri (America) is my greatest accomplishment … After competing consecutively for 5 years I was honored to receive that title which taught me the foundations of female impersonation. Its disciplines have served as a springboard to all my other accomplishments. I’ve served in the capacity of Show Director, MC, Promoter and Producer here in my home city of St.Louis, and have had numerous opportunities to Judge Competitions in every major pageantry system in which I’m still active as both a Judge and MC.

MM. How hard is it to get into the national pageantry system? Do you find that once you win one, the others seem to be easier or do they become harder?

VV. I find the quest to enter a National Pageantry System is both a “choice and obligation”. Granted, the competitive field of female impersonation is not easy. Its takes determination, practice and patience. It’s very expensive as well, especially if you want to stand alongside those that you’ve admired for years. I’ve always believed never enter any competition with arrogance as it only gets you “no-where” really fast. Use every opportunity as a chance to learn from all competitors and choose the pageantry system, that identifies your brand of entertainment. I encourage all entertainers to at least try “once”, and if your find your “passion” is elevated in the experience, try and try harder to achieve your intended result. Be fair to your pocket book, but moreover use the opportunity to present your “brand” with “excellence” …. Not every loss is a failure.

VV.The advice I always give to those starting out is to “LISTEN, first …and LEARN second” …. Listen to your heart and make wise choices based on your current abilities and use it as a vehicle to undersound advice minus ‘sparing” your feelings. Never continue to get advice from someone, who does not understand the type of entertainer you desire to be. Never compromise WHO you are, for the sake of winning a pageant or being on a show. Never underestimate other entertainers, because I believe we all “learn’ from each other ….!

MC: What pageantry system do you feel has the hardest contestants to compete against?

VV: Honestly, I believe all the pageants system have an equal degree of difficulty when it comes to fellow competition. There is no “easy way out” of real competition. I don’t believe the cliché ...”you are your own competition “… IMO ...that is the biggest lie ever told as it relates to competing in pageants …. (lol)…When you enter a contest/pageants you are there to compete against all the others who have practiced and prepared. I believe, when a newcomer sets themselves up to compete against a more experienced entertainer, you might run the risk of being overlooked for your chance to win.

However it’s has been proven that an experienced entertainer might not always have what it takes to win every competition.

The cliché “Experience is a good teacher” …..Is exactly …. “As it should be” …!

Competition can make you better…..and give you the confidence to compete against the so-called “Best” …!!!!

MC: What do you think of RuPaul’s Drag Race?

VV: I think RuPaul’s Drag Race, has opened the eyes of those who have shunned female impersonators down through the years. The show is such an innovative way to introduce to some and present to others who aren’t familiar with certain aspects of drag, facts that female impersonators are “real people” with real emotions and goals to succeed. Not to mention, “Incredibly talented” as well.

MM. You own/operator of International Inc. Pageantry, what about this that makes it stand out from the rest?

VV. Mr. & Miss International Inc. was established immediately following the 2007 Mr. & Miss International reign of Marlowe Rainbow and me. We were approached by prominent college professor, philanthropist, entrepreneur and Founder of (My Brother’s Keeper) of Jackson, Mississippi, - Dr.Mark Colomb, PhD. He was totally impressed with the efforts of Marlowe and myself as King and Queen who reached outside of the protocols of pageantry and sought opportunities to build self-esteem, HIV awareness and prevention, and serving as true role models in the LGBTQ communities around the world.

Our motto: “Uniting Everyone….Everywhere” …served as our mission statement and we were successful for a few years with multiple preliminaries throughout the country, including Canada, The Bahamas’, and Virgin Islands. Several accomplished entertainers have won the title “International Inc.”title to include: Kitty Litter, Amaya Mann, Anastasia Beaverhausen, Big Mama Wolfchase, Chevelle Brooks, Malaysia Andrews Ravor, Nio Richards, Sandra Lopez, Simba R. Hall, Takiya Valentino Wynters, Eric Rainbow, Syria Sinclair, Peaches of Delaware, Akeria Davenport, and Cha Chi Devine, along with (2) of the best “Male Illusionist” …. Romance & Rydyr Reeves. We re-introduced to the pageant scene the significance of having a pageant in a theatre setting versus a bar. That was perhaps the most impressive of all who came to witness the National pageant held in Jackson, Mississippi. Sadly, during the planning of what would have been our 3rd finals in 2011 our Chief Financial Officer, Dr. Colomb passed away suddenly, leaving us not only in disbelief but profound sadness for the loss of such an awesome humanitarian and philanthropist who spared no expense to see to it that “International Inc.” would not only be a pageant, but a pageant with a purpose. Unfortunately, at this time we have not decided how we will move forward with the system. Our dream has been “delayed”... but not “denied” MC: What is the history of International Inc. Are there any other pageants that you run, please tells us about them?

VV: I am the Founder of a pageantry system in my home state of Missouri …. It’s appropriately named: Mr. & Miss MISSOURI STATE (A contest designed with “new” entertainers in mind) …. This year we will be celebrating our 10th year anniversary. The divisions are: Mr. & Miss also “Duke & Duchess” for the Male Illusionist and Femme entertainers.

I’m most proud of “The Missouri State Royal Family”. Because each of the winners worked really hard to accomplish their goal of becoming a “Royal”.

I have to boast “The Missouri State Royal Family “ has several past winners who have went on to capture National Titles to include : Mr. EOY , Mr. Black USofA, Top 10 @ Mr. Continental, Miss USofA, Miss Black Universe and the list goes on. I love to see the growth of new entertainers who are born talented who needed and found acceptance.

MC: What’s your favorite thing about doing what you do? Why?

Vicki with Septimus Marlowe co-owner of International, Inc. Pageantry

VV: I am proud of the many lives that I have touched either in person, in my writings or comments. I am honored to be a part of so many lives “virtually”.

I’ve met countless people straight and gay, who have written me via social media, who have expressed to me that I have given them things to think about in their lives. I’m beyond humbled to know that people respect my opinion most times ( lol) .. It is gratifying to realize my purpose in the earth realm is to inspire and encourage others all while encouraging myself.

MC: What has been your favorite city to visit? Why? VV. My favorite cities to visit are: Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas, Houston, Baltimore, Las Vegas and Jackson, Mississippi, each of these cities are beautiful in their own right. It’s also important for me to mention I have met incredible entertainers whom seem more excited to see me, each time I visit. I am welcomed with such appreciation, sometimes it’s overwhelming because most times I visit , I’m not in drag and when people who have never seen me as a guy are in disbelief that it’s me ….Vicki Valentino ….. It’s sooooo FUNNY …. !

MC: Have you had any bad experiences with bars or pageant owners? If so, what did you learn to do differently from the experience?

VV: Honestly, I been fortunate enough not to really have a bad experience, mostly because I try to get all the information I need before I leave home, about what to expect as it relates to my booking. I think it’s important for entertainers and patrons to understand; most times you have to bend to get an opportunity you would not have otherwise had, being gracious and respectful to a business owner and its employees and patrons. I don’t believe in the DIVA attitude of expecting more that can be offered to a “man in a dress” …. (lol) ….

MC. Have you had any bad experiences with bars or pageant owners? If so, what did you learn to do differently from the experience?

VV. Honestly, I been fortunate enough not to really have a bad experience, mostly because I try to get all the information I need before I leave home, about what to expect as it relates to my booking. I think it’s important for entertainers and patrons to understand; most times you have to bend to get an opportunity you would not have otherwise had, being gracious and respectful to a business owner and its employees and patrons. I don’t believe in the DIVA attitude of expecting more that can be offered to a “man in a dress” …. (lol) ….

MC: Conclusion, What has brought you the most joy and happiness to your life, and what do you want people to know about you, as a person that a majority of us don’t know?

VV: I want people to know “Vincent” first …and acknowledge “Vicki” after that. I didn’t enter this business to become a person who is forgetful of their my “beginnings”. Each opportunity to present yourself as a real person is the perfect opportunity for others to really “believe” who you are. The façade of “DRAG” can be a disguise for the “inner BIOTCH …(lol) . I am most grateful that in the 29 years as a spokesperson and role model for the LGBTQ community has been a privilege and a continuing learning experience. I whole heartedly understand that not everyone will like me or come to love me, but I deem it my responsibility to be the “same person” on and off stage.

I’m thankful every day for the chance to make a difference in someone’s life, all while understanding that my story is not the next person’s reality. My vehicle as a female impersonator has driven me crazy at times, but I stay the course knowing that no one forced me into to this lifestyle, and that it’s my responsibility to make the most of it. No I have not won, what would be considered the “biggest National titles, but each title I have earned have brought me joy for the most part, and I am forever a part of those endeavors in my heart. I believe every WIN is a platform to say, “hey, I did something right” and every loss is an opportunity to say “Hey, at least I tried”, when others dared not to.

Currently, I am preparing for my prelim to Miss Gay America, after not competing in that system for 18 years. It’s being held in my hometown of St. Louis Missouri, and I am excited about this chance, because the Miss Gay America system was my introduction to this art form, and I can compete against my peers feeling confident that I will be accepted for the “man” I am , and the “woman” inside of me…..(lol) …..My mantra: “The Scores are The Scores”, while often misinterpreted is my way of saying ……Live with the results and try harder the next time, knowing that “A goal is only attainable if you TRY and keep TRYING. and if it never happens ………

“At least you gave it a shot”…!

GAY TEENS AND HOW ONE I

Written by: Ladycat De’Ore WELCOME TO PRIDE MONTH!!!!

Welcome to the month that you are supposed to be proud of yourself and what you believe in and proud of all the people that have worked hard to get you where you are and where you deserve to be.

We have made great leaps and bounds to set the standard for life.

Unfortunately, it isn’t that easy for everyone. Life is not easy. You have to fight for what you want. This article is a serious one for a change and then I will be back to the funny next month, but this is life.

Meet Sabrina Ghisletti, she is a 17yr old working two jobs and is a now proud lesbian female. That is not the way that it started though. I met Sabrina and her mother standing outside of The Justin Furstenfeld concert excited for the doors to open.

Upon first look you would never see a gay teen that went through so much pain to the point of trying to commit suicide.

The Suicide Prevention Resource Center synthesized these studies and estimated that between 30 and 40% of LGBT youth, depending on age and sex groups, have attempted more than 50 percent of transgender youth attempt suicide at least once before their 20th birthday.

This is her story: What brought you to this point in your life that you thought that you couldn’t carry on?

The reason I got to the point of wanted to end my life was a mixture of things. I’ve been bullied since elementary school. The older I’ve got the worse its gotten. I’ve never been one to fit in with a group of people. It’s taken me up until now to really start to figure out who I am. I would always change how I dress, how I talk and who I was essentially based on who I was hanging out with which made it difficult to hang out with the same group of people for a longer period of time. I never made any lasting friendships. It got to the point where everyone at my school didn’t like me... I wasn’t happy with who I was because I didn’t know who I was. I also was adopted at birth by my grandparents because my biological mother was addicted to meth. I started talking to Melissa (biological mother) in middle school but she was never stable. She loved me, and I knew that. But she was never around long enough to show it. She came in and out of my life so quickly and it hurt more and more each time. It made me feel unwanted. Like it was my fault. I eventually came out of the closet the summer of 2012. No one seemed to really care except the few that called me a “dyke”, a “queer”, “fag”, and many more. Between the people I went to school with, the harassment and the abandonment by my real mother I felt alone.

One day, I came home after having a really rough day. Someone had told me at school that day some really nasty things and I just didn’t feel good enough. I went home, cried a lot and took a handful of pills. It didn’t kill me. Only made me really sick. I felt like I just failed at another thing in life.

Things got progressively worse and a few months later I came to my mom and told her that I didn’t feel like my life was worth living. I told her that I was scared and I was sick of feeling unwanted and she took me to the hospital.

Do you believe that you can help other gay teens by sharing this story?

I believe I can help other gay teens who feel like they’re the only one who is getting teased or bullied by other people around them. I think that no one’s life is better or worse just different. We all hurt in different ways for different reasons. But everyone’s life is worth living. Because no matter how hard it is to believe, there’s always a reason to keep pushing forward.

What keeps you going?

The things that keep my going are my mom. She’s always been there through thick and thin, she’s been amazing. She’s always gone to bat for me in every single situation I’ve been in. She’s the kindest, most beautiful woman I’ve ever met.

Inside and out. I knew that if I gave up it would hurt her and that’s the one thing I’m scared of. Another thing that keeps me going is my future. No matter how dim or hard it seems to get there, it’s still there.

I know it gets better.

What would you like to be when you grow up?

I’ve given my future a lot of thought. I hope to go to art school either in New Jersey (I beg her not to go there.) or in Oregon. I want to become a tattoo artist and open my own shop. I also want to graduate high school and maybe one day raise a family. I guess we’ll see what the future hold when it gets here.

Did you take any medicine for everything that you have been through?

I’ve been on so many different medications to help cope with my depression and my adhd. I’m still searching for the right ones.

Gay teens are 8 times more likely to commit suicide, why do you think that is?

Gay teens are more likely to commit suicide because of the harassment that comes from being gay. But also because you don’t feel like you truly fit in. When you come out to the world as being gay you’re labeled and lectured by ignorant people about something that you can’t change. Being gay isn’t a choice. And the people who see it as something you can fix with medication and a few bible verses are the people that make it so difficult for people to be who they really are. Another reason why gay teens are more likely to commit suicide is because they’re afraid to tell the people they love and they’re close to about their sexuality. They aren’t comfortable with who they are.

It is our job to protect these maturing teens. What is the best way that you can think to do that?

The best way to help gay teens struggling with their sexuality is make them feel welcome. Were just like everyone else. we need to have more lgbt centers, more gay activities and groups and also the public needs to recognize the kids that are struggling and make it more acceptable to be who you are.

What words would you give to the family and friends of LGBT youth that are going through depression and suicide?

I would probably say that it is okay to be exactly who you are. The people that accept you as a

person can accept the person you love also. Suicide is not the answer. It does not solve any problems.

It’s a permanent solution to a temporary problem.

No matter how bad it seems, it gets better. And there’s always support around you in some form.

You just need to find it.

LGBT youth living in a social environment that was more supportive of gays and lesbians — for instance, having more anti-discrimination policies — were 25 percent less likely to attempt suicide than LGB youth living in less-supportive environments. Who is your biggest influence?

My biggest influence is definitely my mom; she strong, beautiful, smart, and probably the most amazing woman alive. She’s been there through everything. My other one is my favorite singer/song writer Justin Furstenfeld. His music is beautiful, heartfelt, and raw. It’s gotten me through hard times, challenges that have been nearly impossible to overcome. He’s also a man who struggled with suicide. I look up to him because his strength and his success.

Hey Sabrina, do you know that you are my hero?

And your mine. :) You really are.

Needless to say, I was in tears by the end of this. I love her like a sister.

IS SURVIVING TODAY There is help out there for you no matter what is going on in your life. Please don’t hesitate to reach out and get the help that you need. Please speak out and if nothing else email me and I will show you love and get you help here in Colorado. http://bornthiswayfoundation.org If you are gay, lesbian, bisexual, or transgendered and are suffering from depression or are suicidal, please immediately read the following pages: Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Transgender Suicide Suicide.org HOME PAGE Teen Suicide and Youth Suicide And please call The Trevor Hotline, which is a 24hour toll-free suicide prevention line aimed at gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgendered, and questioning youths: 1-866-4-U-TREVOR The Trevor Project was founded in 1998 by James Lecesne, Peggy Rajski and Randy Stone, the creators of the Academy Award®-winning short film TREVOR. Set in 1981, TREVOR is a timeless coming-of-age story about love, loss, and learning to be you.

Trevor is an exuberant, happy 13-year old who has a crush on the most popular boy in school, Pinky Faraday. When Trevor’s classmates discover his true feelings for Pinky, they tease and mock him.

Sad and friendless, Trevor decides the world would be better off without him and tries to take his own life. But Trevor is no victim. By the end, it’s clear his developing sense of self and undeniable enthusiasm for life will always see him through.

And if you are depressed please make appointments with a medical doctor and a therapist so you can be evaluated.

How to Help a Suicidal Friend

Lend an ear. Make a call.

Loneliness. Isolation. Fear. Regret. Rejection.

These are common feelings a suicidal friend may be experiencing, especially after coming out. Name calling and bullying in school, at home or in the community can amplify these feelings, leading to depression and sometimes suicide.

Lend an unconditional ear. Encourage your friend to share their feelings with you and one of the free LGBT-focused hotlines. The Trevor Project and the GLBT National Help Center provide free and confidential counseling.

Their feelings are real. Don’t take that away from them. Your friend may not be able to communicate how severe their depression is or how far the name

calling, bullying or harassment has gone. Check in often and stay alert. Sometimes our tendency as loved ones and friends is to dismiss attempts at reaching out as inconsequential.

Be understanding

without being judgmental. Take action and take no concern for granted. Even if your friend’s thoughts, fears or feelings seem dramatic or unrealistic, understand that these issues are very real for them—real enough for them to consider taking their own life.

Don’t avoid the topic.

Avoidance isn’t what your friend needs right now. Don’t be afraid to talk about suicide. Ask them if they are considering taking their life. Ask if they’ve made a plan (this will help you gauge the seriousness of their intentions). Their intent may still be there even without an initial plan.

Avoid the common myth that if they really wanted to die they would’ve already done so. Your friend needs help and any thoughts, plans or failed attempts on their life should be taken seriously. Death is final.

Remind them of that and encourage them to stick it out. For tips on support call Trevor Project and the GLBT National Help Center.

Make a plan.

Sit with your friend and create a plan of action to help them cope with or improve their situation. Write down the issues and come up with plausible short-term and long-term solutions. Develop alternatives together and help him or her see them out.

Remove the tools.

Remove any dangerous items from your friend’s home. You know your friend and their habits and maybe some of their secrets. Is there a gun in the house or do their parents keep a knife collection? What about chemicals or pills? Try and remove any items that may be used to attempt suicide.

Tell an adult. Reach out to a professional.

Unfortunately, now isn’t the time for a pact of secrecy. Don’t promise not to tell anyone. Find a trusted adult that can help you help them. If your friend is considering suicide because of issues with their parents, it may not be best to solicit their help. Try your parents, adult siblings or a trusted community or education professional. You can also solicit the help of your local LGBT community center or a gay-affirmative therapist. Be persistent in your search for help.

Seek emergency help.

In emergency situations where you aren’t able to help your friend and you believe they are going to commit suicide despite the steps taken above, stay with them and call 911 immediately.

http://gaylife.about.com/od/informationresources/tp/teensuicide.htm Thank you Colorado for caring enough about our gay teens that the suicide rate has dropped drastically in just the last two years.

PROUD OF YOU!!!!

Submitted by: Travis Walgreen

This summer, there is a little bit of everything on the palate as far as hair color is concerned; A little something for everyone! One of the most outspoken I’ve seen involves brunettes. Instead of a chocolate brown, or golden brown the trend is moving towards much more rich colors. Mahogany and cherry wood are among the richest and gorgeous choices for brunettes. If your hair color is chemically altered, you should be using color care shampoo and conditioner, but in the instance of these deep hues, you must use the proper shampoo and conditioner in order to keep the shade in your hair bright as can be. “Colore” in the Purify line by Karval will do the trick!

Platinum blonde is, of course, on the books again this season. Don’t worry though, new innovations have allowed for this violet hue without the damage of traditional hair “bleach”.

You can achieve the great blonde results without the harshness of years before. Still though, make sure you are using shampoo and conditioner that will help control the fading, and keep your hair long and strong. I would recommend Volumizing and Strengthening Shampoo and Conditioner by Aloxxi. These products use apple stem cell technology. The makers of Aloxxi found an apple that does not bruise when dropped from the apple tree. Come to find out, the magic was in the stem of the apple, which has healing properties. This stuff will heal your hair from the inside out!

Red was THE trend in 2012, and it is not going anywhere! Redheads are one of my favorite heads of hair to do!

During the summer though, red can be tough to keep, so after color care is essential to a long lasting vibrancy with reds. I am certified in Pravana color, and one of the biggest reasons I chose this brand is because it lasts. My reds stay much longer than most, as long as you are using proper after service care products!

Although fun while it lasted, the hair chalk fad was just that; a fad. If you’re looking for those BOLD bright colors that you once got with hair chalking, try some extension pieces. I am certified in and use Babe Tape-In Hair Extensions, and they are available in a huge variety of 100% Human, 100% Indian Remy hair. Indian Remy hair is the best on the market as far as quality, and Babe uses fabric dyes to color the hair, so worries of fading is no longer! It only takes about 10-15 to put a few pieces in, and the possibilities are endless. This method uses a small piece of tape at the top of the weft of hair, and your natural hair is sandwiched in between two of the tape in wefts. I use a bond remover on the tape and they slide right out! They last for about 8 weeks and there is no damage to your natural hair!

Call me at 720-560-1055 to set up a consultation today! These extensions are also available for whole head application, for added length, fullness and volume!

All of the above listed products are available at

Swagger Salon

6050 W. 92nd Ave Ste. 700 Westminster, CO 80031 303-424-6461 720-560-1055

Mar 2 - June 23 The Doyle and

Debbie Show June 8 - 9 Ballroom with A Twist Tickets available at www.denvercenter.org