GayCalgary Magazine - March 2007 by GayCalgary Magazine

March 2007 Issue 41

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GLBT RESOURCE • CALGARY & EDMONTON

gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #41, March 2007

Established originally in January 1992 as Men For Men BBS by MFM Communications. Named changed to GayCalgary.com in 1998. Stand alone company as of January 2004. First Issue of GayCalgary.com Magazine, November 2003. Name adjusted in November 2006 to GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine. Publisher Steve Polyak & Rob Diaz-Marino, publisher@gaycalgary.com Editor Rob Diaz Marino, editor@gaycalgary. com

Table of Contents 5

Original Graphic Design Deviant Designs Advertising Steve Polyak sales@gaycalgary.com Contributors Steve Polyak, Rob Diaz-Marino, Jason Clevett, Jerome Voltero, Kevin Alderson, Benjamin Hawkcliffe, Stephen Lock, Nina Tron, Arthur McComish, Andrew Barry, Allison Brodowski and the Gay and Lesbian Community of Calgary Photographer Steve Polyak and Rob Diaz-Marino Videographer Steve Polyak and Rob Diaz-Marino Please forward all inquiries to: GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine Suite 100, 215 14th Avenue S.W. Calgary, Alberta T2R 0M2 Phone (403) 543-6960 or toll free (888) 543-6960 Fax (403) 703-0685

Letter from the Publisher

8 Under the Covers with Jann Arden Chatting with Calgary’s Favorite Daughter.

12 Lily Tomlin Gay Icon comes to Calgary

Map & Event Listings

Just Ask Nina!

Eating Out 2

Q Scopes

Adult Film Review

Q Puzzle

25 Years of Apollo’s Western Cup

Building a Bar

E-mail magazine@gaycalgary.com Print Run Monthly, 12 times a year

Attack of the Celebrities

Masthead continued on page 4

Find out what’s happening

The Dish who dishes advice Sloppy Seconds, A Tasty Dish

“Take big risks, Aries!” Cum, Manscape, Breathless, Forced Entry “Body Work,”

Introducing Outgames

It’s not as easy as you may think!

Continued on page 4 gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #41, March 2007

Continued from page 3

The Producers

Nunsense

Calgary Cares 2007

Woodys Pub

Fundraising Photos

Calgarians Networking Club

Paragraph 175

Carole Pope

The Transsexual Trajectory: What Happens After Diagnosis?

Deadline for Ad Bookings 25th of the month (unless otherwise stated)

The Vagina Monologues

Deadline for Ad copy 28th of the month (unless otherwise stated)

Celebrity Bigotry

Legal Council Courtney Sebree Aarbo, Barristers and Solicitors

A Couple of Guys

Bitter Girl

Queer Eye - Calgary & Edmonton

The opinions expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of GayCalgary.com or the contributors of the magazine.

Classifieds Ads

People photographed or interviewed, writers, advertisers, contributors and anyone else involved with this publication are not necessarily gay, lesbian, bi, bi-curious or trans gendered. They can be straight people that are gay friendly.

Mel Brooks Musical coming to Calgary Divine Musical is Habit-forming PULSE â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the Rhythm of Life

Ad Submission Friday March 23rd 2007

Copies Printed Monthly, Over 10,000 copies. Distribution points up to 200 points in Calgary, largest number of distribution points for any Gay publication in Calgary. Up to 150 points in Edmonton, largest number of distribution points for any Gay publication in Edmonton. Also distributed coast to coast across Canada in select locations in Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, Regina, Saskatoon, Winnipeg, and other places across Canada and the United States. Please call us if you would like to be a distribution point.

A Friendly Place in the Gaybourhood

How Do You Meet People In This Community?

Presented by the U of C Development Studies Club

Distributed by DLRJ Distributions (Calgary), Clarkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Distribution (Edmonton), Canada Post (rest of Canada and USA) and by GayCalgary.com

Anti-Diva Still Trades Rough

Who Are The Role Models Now?

Printers North Hill News This Issue Cover Jann Arden, provided by Universal Music Canada and Lily Tomlin, provided by Lily Tomlin.

Community Events this Month

April 2007 Press Deadlines Ad Space Booking - Wednesday March 21st 2007

Continued from page 3

Member of Canadian Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce Member of International Gay & Lesbian Travel Association

In Circulation - Wednesday April 4th 2007

Member of Tourism Calgary.

gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #41, March 2007

Member of Edmonton Rainbow Business Association.

Attack of the Celebrities Letter from the Publisher By Rob Diaz-Marino

Ack, they’re everywhere this month! What started out for us as disappointment at the beginning of the month soon led to several breakthroughs to big names in the entertainment scene. Steve and I tagged along for the interview with Jann Arden that our writer Jason conducted in early February, and it was gratifying to see that she recognized us (especially Steve) from the many times we have crossed paths in the past. I first met her several years ago when we had done a food review on The Arden restaurant that used to reside along 17th Avenue. Steve, perhaps a little star struck back then, left me alone in the room with her after forgetting to introduce me…a little awkward I guess, but she is a very easy person to get along with. You can read our one-onone interview with her on page 8. Lily Tomlin and Carole Pope are two names from before my time. Steve had to get me up to speed, digging up a small selection of music for me to listen to. I often say that I am pop-culturally challenged – knowledge outside of math and science has never been my strong suit. Still, it didn’t take much for me to realize the important role these two outspoken gay icons played back in a time when homosexuality was deeply taboo. On a completely different note, Steve and I just recently became Uncles (or maybe I’m the Aunt)!! While getting ready to put this magazine to press, Steve’s brother Les announced that his wife Suzanne has delivered, and it’s a girl! Suzanne was responsible for creating the original layout for GayCalgary.com Magazine more than three years ago. Cigars would be in order, except I don’t smoke and I have work still left to do! Last Month I got the chance to visit Edmonton for the second time, this February; my first visit was during a heat wave, and this time was during a particularly bitter cold snap. Thoroughly bundled up, Steve and I trudged around town to photograph the Edmonton Vocal Minority concert, and the Team Edmonton Launch, in addition to the weekly drag shows at Buddys and the Roost. I finally got to meet many of the Edmontonians Steve had been telling me about, and experience the side-splitting banter of Edmonton’s queens on stage. We found that the Edmonton bars were surprised to hear how smooth the smoking transition went for Calgary’s gay bars. Their experience was something quite different, and some feel their crowds have never returned to what they once were. On a lighter note, Steve introduced me to a particularly tasty treat that is not available back at home. Apparently there is a

whole array of flavours beyond the Baja Rosa and Baja Luna that we have here in Calgary. We had enjoyed drinking “Tiggers” (Baja Orange + Sambuca) at the Backlot for the short period of time that Baja Orange was available here, but inexplicably even Calgary liquor stores are unaware of the existence of grape and cherry flavours. Boots was our stop for these indulgences – Crème de Cacao and Baja Cherry made a killer combination! This Month We’re gong to be slammed for the next two months as events go: Powder and Pride, The Vagina Monologues, Calgary Cares, Paragraph 175, Western Cup 25, OutFest and OutRights, the ISCCA Coronation, the Wedded Bliss Ball, and the Glass Gender Bender are just a few events that I can list off the top of my head for Calgary. Lucky enough our new Sponsored Events section is running on the GayCalgary.com website, so you don’t have to go digging if you need a quick reminder about what is up and coming. Look for it along the left side of the welcome page, right above the bar information for Calgary and Edmonton. GayCalgary.com - 15 Years Strong! Steve and I missed an important anniversary back in January: that of GayCalgary. Thus far we have only been counting how long the magazine component has been running, but GayCalgary.com as an entity has existed for considerably longer. The Men for Men BBS, a dial-up gay chat room, took its roots back in January of 1992. Indeed we came across old Men for Men ads when rifling through copies of Clue Magazine in the gay archives at the Glenbow Museum. After Clue stopped publishing, Steve was involved in the one-time release of “Haven’t Got a Clue,” a community information supplement to tide Calgary over. As the internet became more prevalent, Men for Men spawned GayCalgary.com in 1995. Not many can say that their business draws from a 15 year legacy of technology and media at the active forefront of Calgary’s gay community. We have always tried to keep our magazine lean and mean, producing a minimum of waste every month. We have been dipping above and below our target of 10,000 copies depending on demand for the time of year. This month we are experiencing a pinch – in

gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #41, March 2007

the best possible way. With our new Edmonton distribution, we are seeing our magazines flying off the racks at an alarming rate, quickly catching up to our distribution quantities here in Calgary! To meet these new demands we have grown our target to 12,000 every month. Bar Banter The Calgary Eagle celebrated its 5th Anniversary this month, a big milestone for any business. Their anniversary party was packed with Calgary regulars, out-of-towners, and many new faces entirely. At 10pm it was already getting hard to move, and it stayed chocker-block as last-call hit. Steve and I did our duty taking pictures while enjoying a wonderful night full socializing, of hugging and kissing, and even occasional groping. The Calgary Eagle continues to be a place where we can relax, be a little naughty, and not worry about being judged. You didn’t hear it from me, but apparently Lorrie Murphy’s birthday is coming up on the 10th of March. It’s not really an official event, but it is a fun reason to get out to Money Pennies that Saturday and wish her the best. The New Bar “What’s happening with the new bar?” It’s a question that has been on many people’s lips for months now, and one that has been directed to us many times. In September of 2006, Boulevard and the Loft (intended for two different floors of the same building in their Inglewood location) launched a grand advertising campaign in our magazine to raise hype and notify the community of their imminent arrival. It caused torrents of discussion online and off, to the point where many non-profit groups already had plans to include the bar in their upcoming 2007 events. With only vague information about the bars’ intended audience and appearance (at Bearbash 2006 it was touted a future bear-bar, and after that, was frequently referred to as a 35+ dance club) many rallied behind it, imagining the potential for it to become their new ideal hangout. The uncompleted bar generated its share of scandal, including a name- and identity-collision with BLVD, an offshoot of the NYC Ultra Lounge that is currently under construction on 18th Avenue and 4th Street in Calgary. Months afterward, the Inglewood location was abandoned and sights were set on a smaller space along 10th Avenue. With little official information available for us to publish, the rumour mill ran wild with the goings on of this project. But after 5 months of delays, the bar has been put on hold until further notice. The owners and investors hope to revive the project when the time is right, but for now it appears that they continued on page 27

gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #41, March 2007

Under the Covers with Jann Arden Chatting with Calgary’s Favorite Daughter. By Jason Clevett

Gay Icon | Spotlight

Jann Arden is a true prairie gal. Born and raised in nearby Springbank, the multi-time Juno award winner still calls the Calgary area home. She is building a house just west of the city, with a home for her parents sharing the property. “I can see your god damn bedroom from the office,” Arden has said, slipping into her trademark imitation of her father Derrel. “I think my nude days sitting with cat on my lap are over.” While her music is frequently heartbreaking, she is renowned for her wicked sense of humor. That humor, and the incredible woman behind it, were very much on display when Jann sat down recently for a one-on-one interview with GayCalgary & Edmonton Magazine. One of the things that have lead to Arden’s success is the connection she makes with her fans. “I have been doing this for such a long time, almost thirty years, and when I look out at an audience I don’t know who they are. I couldn’t tell you that it was gay men, or lesbians or plus 55 or teenage girls from 16 – 22 or young couples on a date. It is so diverse, the only thing I am ever mindful of is that a lot of times people bring their kids which is always flattering to me. I am not really racy or saying ‘fuck’ all the time. Once in awhile I’ll throw it in there but I am always careful. “I am not sure what endears me to people but I think when you write about relationships it doesn’t exclude anybody. Everyone has the same emotional journey that they go on; it’s not different for any of us. When I write something that feels really real to me I know people understand that. I have screwed up enough to know that I need to write about something authentic, I can’t be trite and sit there and write about gum or something inanimate. All of my songs are about relationships directly or indirectly. I don’t think there is anything more important to write about than the very human but simple concept of loving another human being, or intricate friendships, relationships with parents and siblings. I think anyone that sits in front of me and sees a show and listens to the music understands on their own terms what it is for them. “I don’t think I am massively appealing; I am for personal consumption. You aren’t going to hear me at a lot of parties but you will put me on when you don’t feel great or are on a road trip and I am proud of that. I don’t care if I am particularly fashionable because I never have been physically nor musically. I have just been the girl next door and I think that is appealing to people because it’s not so far from the grasp of what they can be. I am not an unreachable ideal.” 8

gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #41, March 2007

Arden was home in Calgary promoting her new CD, Uncover Me, now available in stores. The CD features covers of many of Arden’s favorite artists and songs. Some of the standout tracks are a dark cover of Pat Benatars Love is a Battlefield, current single Janis Ian’s At Seventeen and a cover of The Carpenters Solitaire that would have made Karen Carpenter proud – and caused Jann a lot of stress. We asked her why she decided to do a cover CD. “Stupidity!” she jokes. “I thought it was going to be really easy and I could take a break from my own inner workings. I’ve been writing for the last year and a half, I have all kinds of material and none of it makes sense, it’s like I’ve been writing on the sitar and singing in Swahili. The record company were like ‘how about you do a Christmas album’ and I said I am not subjecting the world to another version of Silent Night...for a few years anyways. “So ideas like 50’s and 60’s Divas came up. Russ and I recorded an entire record with songs like End of the World by Skeeter Davis and Moon River, some Burt Bacharach stuff. I was done, it was mastered and I got cold feet, I

didn’t want to do it. I felt like I had nothing invested in it, I didn’t know what it was. Bruce Allen, (manager of Bryan Adams and Michael Buble) had heard a copy of the record I had done. He phoned me and gave me so much shit. He told me I had to pick songs that mean something to me and I was startled. A stupid part of me thought I could phone this record in, and have a break and put this record out before Christmas. “I put the breaks on, ditched everything and spent a lot of time repacking these songs. This record should have been called ‘Songs that I sang three million times in my parent’s basement.’ We started from scratch and I lost a lot of sleep over it thinking I was ruining perfectly good songs that were already great. Why would anyone want to redo Solitaire? So I had to nail it and show people how much I respected Karen and how much I learned from singing that. I think it’s a really fun record for fans. It is still really dark. I tried to make it light and poppy and there are still parts of it that are just like ‘holy hell… how can somebody do that to Love is a Battlefield?” While it is cool to hear Jann’s interpretations of other people’s work, one of her biggest strengths has always been her songwriting. We talked about the effect her songs have on people. For me personally, songs like Sorry for Myself and All of This have deep personal meaning. Others identify strongly with the song Good Mother, one of the most popular songs she has written. “I think our shows are a rollercoaster, they really are. I in a million years never would have thought that Good Mother would have the legs and the life that it’s had. I remember scribbling the lyric down on the back of a Du Maurier cigarette paper. My friend Bob had written this incredible procession and I’d written down ‘I’ve got a good mother, I like the color of my hair.’ My friend Stephanie

had just completely changed the color of my hair. Before the Living Under June package I had really fair blonde hair and she colored it and gave me bangs. So that lyric was born out of that. ‘I’ve got a friend who loves me, I’ve got a house, I’ve got a car.’ I don’t think the car I was driving was mine, I didn’t have a house I had an apartment I could barely afford at $325 a month. But whenever I hear people sing that back to me I think it’s such a simple sentiment. I like the fact that people can connect, and the music, when you are dealing with human emotion it’s such a general blanket, it doesn’t single out or isolate anybody. I write about such simple things, I am not saying new things. “But a song like Mend - who hasn’t had one of those fights where an hour later you have no idea what you are fighting about, but who is going to give in first? The best lesson my parents taught me was, do you want peace or do you want to be right? I want to have peace I am just not a fighter. It is great that people can relate to it. I played Good Mother for my Mom (Joan). My Mom and dad have never been particularly emotional they are very true people. She said to me ‘Well I think that’s got a really good beat.’ I was so frightened to play that song for them. I close every one of my shows with Good Mother, I have for years. I see people just waiting for it. Good Mother will always be in the set.” It’s this connection that has lead to many of her fans reaching out and telling their stories, as she has through her music. “I am thrilled with the response to my music over the years. It never ceases to amaze me the letters I get. I want to cry all the time. Something will strike me when I am sitting on a plane reading the letters I get,” she continued. “I am sitting there going ‘I don’t know you but you just put an arrow through my heart.’ It always starts off with ‘I’ve never written a letter like this before’ and they just tell me these stories that are pages long about where they hurt and why and what. I am proud of that, I haven’t sold thirty million records but to the people who have bought them it is such a prized possession that they have.” The concert experience is another part of the appeal of Arden. Blending humor with heartache, they are one of the few concert experiences that can bring you tears from sadness and laughter all within minutes. Arden hits the road this spring for a series of sold-out shows. “Every time I do a new record it gets increasingly difficult to keep doing songs that I want to do. I can’t push the show past two hours because my voice gets tired. If I want it to sound right I have to leave it at that. I have nine records and I need to juggle that. Now with this new record I need to find a 25-minute segment to do four or five of these songs. It’s like a turd in a glass of milk, I am going along depressing the shit out of everybody… and now for a little Downtown everyone!” There have been embarrassing moments when Arden has forgotten the words to her own songs. “When I haven’t done these songs for a long time, I know I am the author but I really die. I have sung Unloved maybe 4000 times, even if I am by myself. I was at a live TV taping and lost continued on page 52

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Lily Tomlin

Gay Icon comes to Calgary By Jason Clevett

Gay Icon | Spotlight

On Saturday, April 7th iconic comedian, film and TV star Lily Tomlin visits Calgary as part of OutFest. An Evening of Classic Lily Tomlin will present her at her finest in a one-woman show featuring many of her greatest characters. ”The show is more formal than if I was doing a big theatre piece like [1985 Broadway show] In Search of Signs of Intelligent Life in the Universe or [Tony award winner] Appearing Nightly. I do about 10 or 12 characters and I will talk about Calgary and the OutGames, and I will be interacting with the audience and hopefully be funny. I will do all of the old favorites like Ernestine. The material is more related to what is going on in the world; while doing Ernestine I might make a phone call to Bush or something like that. Ernestine and Edith Ann and Mrs. Beasley are pretty much a done deal,” Tomlin said in a one-on-one interview to preview the show. Don’t expect to see the Telephone switchboard however. “I don’t use anything on stage. I do have old switchboards and I have a life-sized cast of Ernestine from when my brother had a store. The show is like a stand up concert. I never did use anything. Even when I do something as elaborate as The Search we have elaborate sound and lights but no costumes or anything. Since I was a young girl I was just mesmerized by somebody who could, with just their face, body and voice, transport me and create a whole scene with several people talking to one another. I thought that was incredibly wonderful and I was always intrigued by that [art]form. With costumes and things, you can’t move fast enough. I always see a show as separate film cuts that can jump anywhere if you can get the audience to suspend their disbelief and go with you - its more magical for them.” Tomlin’s career has spanned over thirty years and has included six Emmy awards, a Tony, a Grammy award for her comedy album This is a Recording and two Peabody awards. She’s had successful runs and guest appearances in TV shows like Laugh-In, The West Wing, Murphy Brown and Will & Grace. In addition to her theatre and TV work she has had a successful film career in movies including Nine to Five, Big Business, The Beverly Hillbillies, I Heart Huckabees, A Prairie Home Companion and many more. With so many accolades we asked Tomlin if there was a defining moment in her career. “As a performer I can’t point to one thing but, something I am especially proud of is the one person show The Search for Intelligent Life in the Universe. I played a lot of places like Toronto and Broadway and Vancouver. I never brought the show to Calgary. That play would be a watermark for me; some of the characters have been very 12

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memorable. I’ve said for years that when I die they will put Ernestine’s picture on my obituary instead of mine. That shows the impact she’s had, and what a long life she’s had. Even recently with the eavesdropping and the NSA and the Bush Administration a lot of cartoonists have brought her out again, with her running the White House switchboard and eavesdropping on everybody.” Tomlin and her business and life partner Jane Wagner will celebrate thirty-six years together this month, a remarkable milestone in both Hollywood and the gay community. We asked Tomlin if she had a secret to a successful relationship. “Everybody asks me and I wish I could really tell them what to do. You just have a commitment to a relationship. If you love somebody you make it work. We have a lot in common so we have a synergy. I love her, she is brilliant and funny and kind and I feel as though I know her soul. The last thing I would want to do in the world is betray her soul.”

time…, because I thought of myself as an artist, I thought it was just [a choice] to trade a magazine cover for my personal life.”

While Tomlin’s sexuality was an open secret, she didn’t officially come out until 2000. In a day and age where, even now, an actor coming out makes the cover of People, Tomlin has managed to not have a media circus surrounding her sexuality. “I don’t know, maybe because I am a female and was around for so long. I think in part it was because of the time I came into the business and got famous, which was 1970 when Ernestine hit on Laugh-In. Jane and I were definitely a couple, there was nobody in the business or the press that didn’t know it. We lived pretty openly and it’s been written about many times now, but 20 or 30 years ago it wasn’t written about no matter how much we were interviewed together. When I was on the cover of Time in 1977 at the same time there was a huge article in Newsweek and they both wrote about it differently. Time said I lived alone, and Newsweek said I shared a house with Jane Wagner.” It was Time Magazine that inadvertently led to one of Tomlin’s coy references to her sexuality. “I got a call from my publicist and she said that TIME would give me the cover if I would come out on it. At that

The September 8, 1975 cover ended up featuring Sgt Leonard Matlovich of the Armed Forces. It lead Tomlin to make an addition to her recording of her 1975 album Modern Scream that mocked straight actors who make a point of distancing themselves from their gay characters; answering the pseudo-interview question, “How did it feel to play a heterosexual?” she replied, “I’ve seen these women all my life, I know how they walk, I know how they talk....” “As a result of this conversation I put a monologue on the album. That was my answer to this, what I looked at as the exploitation by the magazine at that moment. They were looking for a gay person, any gay person to put on the cover. To me it was also a time when…that was the whole deal of it. They were professionally gay instead of just being a human being.” Tomlin has a huge LGBT fanbase and many drag performers have done tributes to her, including Calgary’s own Ernestine. Tomlin is flattered and thrilled when they show up to her shows dressed as her characters. “A lot of fans will come to the show in drag as Ernestine. In the old days they really came a lot, there were people who did that character all over the place. It’s fabulous. One time I was on Johnny Carson and Joan Rivers was subbing for him. Ernestine had been nominated for an Emmy for her take off of the scene from Flashdance, so I went on in my shorts and legwarmers. I had my brother, who looks just like me, dress up as Ernestine and a few other people in Ernestine costumes. There was this one brief shot of them in the audience like my fan club.” Tomlin has managed to remain low key with her private life while also living honestly. As far as she knows, she has never had anyone refuse to work with her because of her sexuality. Even today however, those in the spotlight can face prejudice from their peers. Grey’s Anatomy star Isaiah Washington came under fire for calling co-star T.R. Knight a faggot (and outed Knight in the process) and recently, former pro basketball player John Amaechi came out and was targeted by an anti-gay rant from former NBA all-star Tim Hardaway. “I have no idea if there has been anyone who hasn’t wanted to work with me, I don’t know. I doubt it but I wouldn’t really know. I am sure there are people in different regions of the world and country that would run away from any gay person or me if they are rabidly religious, and that is an issue for them. …What possess someone to speak out against it? They have a right I guess to express continued on page 56

gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #41, March 2007

Events Listing

Find out what’s happening Calgary Listings Accommodations

Westways Guest House O13 216 - 25 Ave SW • (403) 229-1758 http://www.gaywestways.com

Bars and Clubs

BackLot O3 See our ad on page 49 209 - 10 Ave SW • (403) 265-5211 Open 7 days a week, 4pm-close Calgary Eagle Inc. O4 See our ad on page 27 424a - 8 Ave SE • (403) 263-5847 Open Wed-Sun 5pm-close http://www.calgaryeagle.com

Money-Pennies O9 See our ad on page 35 1742 - 10 Ave SW • (403) 263-7411 Open Mon-Fri 11:00am-close; Sat & Sun 10:30am-close http://www.money-pennies.com Texas Lounge O6 See our ad on page 14 and 45 308 - 17 Ave SW • (403) 229-0911 Open 7 days a week, 11am-close Tuesdays - Karaoke Wednesdays - Hi-Ball Specials Saturdays - Karaoke Sundays - Beer Specials (selected brands) also Ernestine’s Matinee Madness Twisted Element O33 1006 11th Ave SW - Front Entrance• (403) 802-0230 See our ad on page 11 http://www.twistedelement.ca

gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #41, March 2007

Twisted Element Lounge O33 See our ad on page 11 1006 11th Ave SW - Back door Entrance • (403) 802-0230 http://www.twistedelement.ca

Adult Depot See our ad on page 59 140, 58th Ave SW •(403) 258-2777 1514 14th St SW •(403) 264-7399 O23 Sex toys, and Straight, Bi, Gay video rentals

Bathhouse and Sauna’s

B&D Emporium Inc. O14 829 17th Ave SW • (403) 265-7789 http://www.bndemporium.com Adult clothing store and accessories specializing in fetish, leather, latex, Gothic, punk, and corsets.

Goliath’s O6 See our ad on page 59 308 - 17 Ave SW • (403) 229-0911 Open 7 days a week, 24 hours a day 7 Days a Week, Specials on Lockers and Single Rooms for Students. Valid student ID must be shown. Student Rates unavailable 8pm to 4am Weekends.

Businesses Alykhan Velji (403) 617-2406 Interior Decorator

Barbies Shop O48 1518 4th Street SW • (403) 262-8265 Adult clothing store, shoes, Gothic, punk, fetish, custom corsettes and more. Brian Mahoney & John McNeill #10, 6020 - 1A St SW • (403) 259-4141 Re/Max Reality Professionals BuBu Bear (403) 852-6977 http://www.bububear.ca

Portable adult novelties Canada Olympic Park Highway 1 Calgary West http://www.canadaolympicpark.ca Courtney Sebree Aarbo O24 See our ad on page 23 1138 Kensington Road NW • (403) 571-5120 http://www.csalaw.ca Barristers & solicitors Chronos Apollo See our ad on page 53 #520 922 5th Avenue SW • (403) 237-2353 Physician directed skin care and more Cruiseline See our ad on page 71 (403) 777-9494 trial code 3500 http://www.cruiseline.ca Phone chat room & talking classifieds for 18+ Deva Dave Salon O32 4th Floor, 1304 4th Street SW • (403) 290-1973 http://www.devadave.com Doug R. Glasser 9625 MacLeod Trail SW • (403) 278-2900 Re/Max Reality Professionals First Class Flowers Elbow and Heritage Drive SW• (403) 255-2239 Jane Doe Marketplace & Cafe O50 See our ad on page 5

311 17 Avenue SW • (403) 245-5263 Calgary’s Only Marketplace featuring Women Entrepreneurs. Coffee Shop too! La Fleur O41 See our ad on page 6 #103 - 100 7th Avenue SW (403) 266-1707 Florist Shop Leather and Lace 2020 32nd Avenue NE • (403) 291-4060 The art of romance Lorne Doucette /CIR Realtors See our ad on page 6 (403) 461-9195 http://www.lornedoucette.com Marcy Calberry /CIR Realtors See our ad on page 25 (403) 291-4440 or (866) 859-4440 MFM Communications See our ad on page 50 (403) 543-6970 http://www.mfmcommunications.com Web site hosting and development. Computer Hardware and Software. More Better Buses (403) 651-1692 Providing unique, comfortable & affordable transportation. Charter us for: High School Graduations, Senior Groups, Pub Crawls and Sporting Events

Priape Calgary O16 See our ad on page 7 and 65 1322 - 17 Ave SW • (403) 215-1800 http://www.priape.com Clothing and accessories. Adult toys, leather wear, movies and magazines. Gifts. Professional Relaxation Massage (403) 510-7572 Male to Male massage by appointment only Rev. Nadene Rogers See our ad on page 7 and 29 (403) 247-0602 http://www.weddingsmyway.com Marriage Commissioner Reymark Able Craftsman, Your home renovation specialist (403) 478-2411 • reymark@telus.net Male to Male massage by appointment only Russell’s Cobalt O45 See our ad on page 47 735 12th Avenue SW • (403) 228-7822 Hair & Aesthetics Sol Sourced Weddings See our ad on page 5 (403) 270-9480 http://www.solsourcedweddings.com Wedding Commissioner Z-Group Voice over IP (VOIP) phone service and long distance (403) 770-1940

Community Groups and Organizations

Aids Calgary O2 See our ad on page 66 200, 1509 Centre St South • (403) 508-2500 http://www.aidscalgary.org Friday, Mar. 2 - Interactive coffee connection. Dropin support for people living with HIV/AIDS to learn basic cooking skills and food safety. Coffee and a light snack provided. AIDS Calgary Kitchen. Friday, Mar. 9 - Interactive coffee connection. Dropin support for people living with HIV/AIDS to learn basic cooking skills and food safety. Coffee and a light snack provided. AIDS Calgary Kitchen. Friday, Mar. 16 - Positive living lunch. A hot meal and time for clients to socialize and learn about specific health and wellness topics. AIDS Calgary Kitchen. Friday, Mar. 23 - Interactive coffee connection. Drop-in support for people living with HIV/AIDS to learn basic cooking skills and food safety. Coffee and a light snack provided. AIDS Calgary Kitchen. Friday, Mar. 30 - Positive living lunch. A hot meal and time for clients to socialize and learn about specific health and wellness topics. AIDS Calgary Kitchen. March 8-9, 2007 - The 8th Annual Alberta Harm Reduction Conference at the Radisson Hotel, Calgary, AB

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This event is being co-hosted by AIDS Calgary and Safeworks Calgary. For more information please contact the Conference Coordinator: Phone 403-327-8900, Fax 403-327-8939, info@albertaharmreduction.ca, http://www. albertaharmreduction.ca Spring For Life Mini Gerber Daisy Sales March 19th - March 23rd, 2007 www.springforlifecalgary.ca March 23, 2007 - Calgary Cares - Pulse at the Jack Singer Concert Hall The much anticipated event is back! Calgary Cares 2007 ‘Pulse’ will offer a heart pounding evening packed with music, theatre, dance, and interpretation, to support AIDS Calgary’s HIV/AIDS awareness, education, prevention and support programs OutRights April 2-3, 2007 Share knowledge, create action, raise awareness. Unify human rights for all. AIDS Calgary is pleased to present OutRights 2007. Bringing together diverse audiences of local, national, and international business and community leaders, academic scholars, students, activists, politicians, philanthropists, members of gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender (GLBT) communities, their allies and the broader community from across North America, OutRights will be held in Calgary, on April 2-3, 2007. Apollo Calgary Friends in Sports See our ad on page 2 and 72 http://www.apollocalgary.com Apollo: Friends in Sport, is coordinating the Calgary teams for both the Montreal Outgames and Chicago Gay Games. Uniforms will be created for both events so that teams can march into the opening ceremonies under “Team Calgary” banners. Sizing and orders will be done at the Apollo tent at the Pride Street Fair on June 11. Please let Apollo know if you are going to compete at one or both games by E-mailing outgames@apollocalgary. com or gaygames@apollocalgary.com.

6:45 - 8:15 p.m. (90 minutes), Sept 11 - Dec 11 (Fall Session) Cost: $89.00 for the 13 weeks (6.85 per week) OR $10.00 drop in fee Apollo membership required ($15.00 per year) Volleyball.- The 2006/2007 season for volleyball starts on September 10, 2006! New this year: Recreational volleyball Friday Nights! Recreational Volleyball King George School, 2108 10th Street NW, (a few blocks north of SAIT) Friday Nights 7:00pm – 9:00 pm. Intermediate/Competitive YWCA, 320 5th Avenue SE. Sunday afternoons 4:30pm – 6:30 pm Rainbow Riders Bowling League - Let’s 10 Pin Bowlerama, 2916 5 Avenue NE, Wednesday’s at 6:30pm. Season is from September to April. League fees are $15.00 per Night. Shoe rental is $2.00 Outdoor Pursuits - WE DO IT OUTDOORS. Skiing, hiking, camping, biking. Any outdoor sports. Why do it alone when you can do it with a group. Weekends and weekdays, all year round. Drop us a line. Yoga - Have you always wondered about yoga? What really is down-dog? Do you think touching your feet with your legs straight is just humanly impossible? Ki Essentials is now offering an exclusive yoga class to Apollo members and friends. This class comprises of twelve weekly 90-minute sessions that focus on basic poses and proper alignment, and are conducted in a fun and supportive environment. This is a multi-level yet beginner friendly class. No previous experience is required. Registration fee is $150 (includes GST) and an Apollo membership is required. Mat rental is $1 in case you do not have one. This class runs on every Wednesday from 7 pm to 8:30 pm, between February 6, 2007 and May 2, 2007 (no class on April 3). Registration deadline is February 5. NOTE: A tentative second class may run on Friday from 6 pm to 7:30 pm. However, it will not run until the Wednesday class is full. Please indicate if Friday is your preferred time slot. Drop-ins for this class are offered on a first-come-first-serve basis. Space is limited so please check ahead of time. Cost for drop-in is $13 for Apollo members and $15 for non-members. For drop-in, mat rental is $1 per session.

Absolutely Smashing! Badminton- The 2006/2007 season for Badminton starts on Sunday, September 17, 2006 (FREE FIRST DAY). Special extended session. We will start at 12:30 p.m. and go to 3:00 p.m. on this session only. All future sessions are 1:30 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. Location: Western Canada High School (641 17th Ave. SW) Schedule: Sunday afternoons in the MAIN GYM, 1:30 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. Drop-in Fee: $5 for each 1.5 hour session for Apollo members or $6 for non-members (Apollo memberships are $15)

ARGRA – Alberta Rockies Gay Rodeo Association Hotline: (403) 541-8140 http://www.argra.org

Curling- The 16th season of Apollo Curling will begin in October 2006, with the same general format as last year. Games are at the North Hill Curling Club (1201 - 2 Street NW) with two draws on Saturdays: 2:20 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. and at the Inglewood Golf and Curling Club, Saturdays at 12:30 p.m.

ARGRA Dance Saturday April 21st, 2007 - We’re kicking up our heels in our new digs at the Hillhurst-Sunnyside Community Centre. Join us there (1320-5th Avenue NW) for a country-rockin’ good time!

Squash -Location: University of Calgary. Mondays, 18

See our ad on page 15 and 67 ARGRA Dance Saturday March 24th, 2007 - We’re kicking up our heels in our new digs at the Hillhurst-Sunnyside Community Centre. Join us there (1320-5th Avenue NW) for a country-rockin’ good time!

Artists for the Quality of Life (403) 890-1261 http://www.afqol.com

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4th Annual Donnie Peters Memorial Cut-a-thon Tomkins Park (17th Ave sw &8th St) Labour Day Monday September 3rd, 2007 Between Men and Between Men Online (403) 234-8973 http://www.glcsa.org/ Peer support, sexual health education for gay or bisexual men, as well as those who may be uncertain or questioning their sexuality. Discussions range from personal relationship or life issues, to sexual health and well-being. Meetings at GLCSA Tuesdays 7:00pm to 9:00pm Calgary Big men and Admirers http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ CalgaryAlbertaBigmenClub/ A group for gay and bisexual men only. Interested parties are welcome to join our VIRTUAL Group in Alberta to: Ease Friendly meetings between big guys and those who love them, organize different social activities, and market a positive image of big men. Hope to See you soon... Big men’s and Admirers Sunday Brunch @ 11am. Mother Tuckers ,345 10th Ave S.W., Calgary. A social outing for bigger guys and those who enjoy their company AND its a FOOD DRIVE, so bring something that is non perishable so we can help out the Calgary Inter-Faith Food Bank! RSVP before November 10th to bigpaul41@yahoo.com Calgary Frontrunners Running Club When: 9 am on Saturdays, Where: Update! Coffee Junkies -795 1 Avenue SW (no longer meeting at Eau Claire Y) What: Walkers and Runners between 5 km – 15 km from sub 5 min/km pace to 10 min/km pace. Who: All are welcome - Typically about 15-20 men and women depending on the weather conditions Contact: E-mail calgaryfrontrunners@shaw.ca or call Tim at (403) 660-6125 Calgary Gay Fathers calgaryfathers@hotmail.com http://www.geocities.com/calgaryfathers Peer support group for gay, bisexual and questioning fathers. Meeting twice a month Calgary Humane Society See our ad on page 49 (403) 250-4455 http://www.calgaryhumane.ca Animal Adoptions and for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Calgary Men’s Chorus See our ad on page 7 (403) 262-6295 http://www.calgarymenschorus.org The Calgary Men’s Chorus is excited to announce that rehearsals for its 2006-2007 season begin Tuesday September 5, 2006. Rehearsals are held from 7:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at the Old Y Centre for Community Organizations, located at 223 12 Avenue SW. Calgary Networking Club November 2, 5:00-7:00pm At Money Pennies (upstairs) 1742 - 10 Ave SW

Calgary Networking Club (CNC) is back.... after a 5 year hiatus, CNC is meeting again in Calgary on the first Thursday of every month. The networking meetings are open to all individuals who would like to promote their businesses or who would like to meet new people - no business affiliation is necessary. CNC is for members of the LGBTQ community to make new friends or business contacts. This group is not age or gender specific. Come listen to our monthly guest speaker, have a snack, and enjoy talking with some new people. Admission to the meeting is $5, or a yearly subscription pass can be bought for $25 (a 28% savings). If you have a GLCSA membership take an additional $5 off your yearly subscription cost. GLCSA memberships will also be available at the meeting for $10. (Call GLCSA for details on membership benefits). For more information contact GLCSA at (403) 2348973....or just drop in on the meeting. Calgary Networking Club (CNC) is a Gay & Lesbian Community Services Association (GLCSA) event. Food and venue sponsored by Money Pennies Bar and Eatery. Calgary Sexual Health Centre 304, 301 14th Street NW (403) 283-5580 http://www.cbca.ab.ca Calgary Sexual Health Centre is a pro-choice organization that believes all people have the right and ability to make their own choices regarding their sexual and reproductive health. Calgary Sexual Health Centre started as a volunteer based, grassroots organization and has been providing comprehensive sexuality education and counselling programs to the Calgary community since 1972. In the early 70’s, CBCA’s work focused on improving access to birth control and increasing support for women facing unplanned pregnancies. Since that time Calgary Sexual Health Centre has evolved to include a range of services to ensure that individuals are able to make informed choices about their sexual and reproductive well being. Our programs promote sexuality as a normal, positive and healthy part of life to be valued and respected. Currently the Calgary Sexual Health Centre offers education and youth peer education programs, counselling and groups for women who are questioning their sexual orientation. RU a lesbian, gay, bisexual, two-spirited or queer youth, ages 17-24? RU interested in helping make Calgary a safer place for people of diverse sexual orientation? If UR, we are looking for dynamic volunteers for our Anti-Homophobia Program. This program is intended to raise awareness and understanding among students about the experiences of lesbian, gay, bisexual, two spirited, transgendered, queer and questioning youth. If you are interesting in sharing your experiences with other youth, and are available days, please call us at 283-5580 and ask for an Educator or contact pkrause@cbca.ab.ca..

Deer Park United Church and Wholeness Centre 77 Deerpoint Road SE - (403) 278-8263 http://www.dpuc.ca Worship Time - 10:00am Sundays Different Strokes http://www.differentstrokescalgary.org Swim Club. Check website for current schedule Don’t Buy In Project http://www.dontbuyin.ca This Calgary Police Service Initiative aims to encourage youth to working towards an inclusive environment in which diversity is embraced in their schools and community. Fake Mustache Calgary’s ONLY Drag King Show Soda Lounge: 211 - 12th Ave S.W. (403) 923-3953 http://www.miscyouth.com calgaryfakemustache@hotmail.com A benefit show for the Miscellaneous Youth Network, Fake Mustache is guaranteed to please! Come see our boys strut their stuff at Soda, the first Thursday of every month. $5 cover. $2 cover under 18. Advance tickets available at Barbies Shop. All Ages show starts at 7:30. 18+ show starts at 10:15. Gay Prairie Alumni http://groups.yahoo.com/group/gayprairiealumni/ This group is for all gay/lesbian/transgendered alumni of Prairie Bible Institute and/or Prairie High School in Three Hills, Alberta. It’s purpose is twofold: First, social -- to renew old friendships and make new ones. Second -- to talk about our common experiences as gay people at a fundamentalist school. Any other questions, please feel free to ask. Girl Friends http://members.shaw.ca/girlfriends Girlsgo Productions (403) 510-2502 http://www.girlsgo.ca Event production and promotion in Alberta for women. Check online for fun things to do! Next Dance Party for Women St. Patrick’s Day Saturday, March 17th, 2007 Join GIRLSGO for a little Shamrock hunting and Leprechaun mischief... and a little dancing too! Find a four-leaf clover and it could be your lucky night! GLASS, Gay & Lesbian Association of Students and Staff 279R Student Union Club Spaces University of Calgary http://www.ucalgary.ca/~glass (403) 220-6394 Saturday April 14- Gender Bender Our annual drag show at the den. Saturday April 14 doors open at 8. Tickets are on sale now for $5 or for $7 at the door. If you are interested in performing or would like more details please email glass@ucalgary.ca

GLCSA - Gay And Lesbian Community Services Association O1 See our ad on page 47 #4, 1230A 17th Avenue SW (403) 234-8973 http://www.glcsa.org Peer Support and Crisis Line - Front-line help service for GLBT individuals and their family and friends, or anyone questioning their sexuality. Please click here for further information on our Peer Support Program. 24-Hour Info Line - Calgary’s resource directory for information, events, business referrals, organizations and support for the GLBT community. Library - A great selection of resource books, fiction, non-fiction, videos and everything in between, all with a queer perspective. Drop-In Center - A safe and supportive environment for one-to-one peer counseling for many issues surrounding family, coming out, homosexuality, loneliness and other issues. Unity Pages - A service directory of GLBT or GLBTfriendly businesses, organizations, and services within Calgary. Heading Out (403) 234-8973 http://www.glcsa.org/ Peer group for men who are looking for an alternative social activity to the bar. Activities vary and are fun and entertaining. The group meets the 2nd and 4th Friday of every month from 7 pm to 9 pm. HIV Peer Support Group (403) 230-5832 hivpeergroup@yahoo.ca Illusions Calgary (403) 234-8973 http://www.glcsa.org Social group for Calgary and area transgender community members (cross dressers, transvestites, drag kings and queens). Illusions provides a safe, discrete and welcoming atmosphere, in which transgendered people can meet others of like mind. Illusions offers discretion, acceptance, compassion and a safe place to express your gender. Crossdressing is the purpose of the group, but is not mandatory. Inside Out (403) 234-8973 http://www.glcsa.org Peer-facilitated youth group for GLBTQ ages 15-25. The group aims to let youth know they are not alone, and to connect them with their peers. Every Monday, 7 pm to 9pm at GLCSA. It is a funky and safe environment with a variety of resources and activities. ISCCA – Imperial Sovereign Court of the Chinook Arch See our ad on page 65 http://www.iscca.ca

Last Sunday of the month - Texas Lounge Movie Matinee Tuesdays and Saturdays - Texas Lounge, 7:00pm Shooters Wednesday - Twisted Element - TNT 7:00pm to 9:00pm March 22nd - Money-Pennies, ISCCA Show Last Sunday of the Month - Texas Lounge, “Buca and a Slice” Integrity Calgary http://members.aol.com/DWFrancis/integrity.html A transdenominational Christian fellowship under the auspices of the Anglican Church, for gays, lesbians, bisexuals, and our friends. We have for the moment stopped our monthly Eucharist on the second Sunday of the month at 7:00pm in St. Stephen’s Anglican Church (1121- 14 Avenue S.W.): NO SERVICES TILL PRIDE St. Stephen’s Anglican Church is a very welcoming community that you may consider going to, they worship every Sunday morning at 8:00 am (traditional prayer book service) and the contemporary worship service at 10:30 am. Rainbow Community Church of Calgary meets at Hill Hurst United Church off (Kensington Close NW). They’re a GLBTQ etc. church (and straight folks are welcome too!) that seeks to provide tools for the spiritual journey thorough developing a supportive community. They are an interdenominational church in the Christian traditions with an evangelical and open flavour. Sundays at 4 PM. Pre-service prayer gathering at 3:30. Knox United Church 506 - 4th Street S.W. • (403) 269-8382 http://www.knoxunited.ab.ca/ Knox United Church is an all-inclusive church located in downtown Calgary. A variety of facility rentals are also available for meetings, events and concerts. Worship Services Wednesdays - Communion Service 12:10 pm Sundays - 11:00 a.m. September to June Sundays - 10:30 a.m. in summer July and August. New Directions (403) 234-8973 or glcsa@glcsa.org http://www.glcsa.org/ Drop in peer-support group to provide support and resources for individuals who identify as transsexual or inter-sexed. The group meets every 3rd Friday of the month from 7 pm to 9 pm at GLCSA. If you are transsexual, or know of someone who is, please contact our office for information and assistance. You are not alone! There is support! PFLAG Calgary See our ad on page 37 Meetings are held the last Saturday of each month. PFI Research INC Suite 500, 703 6th Ave SW Calgary AB (403) 234-0445 ext 801

Positive Space Committee at Mount Royal College 4825 Mount Royal Gate SW Phone: 403-440-6383 Web: www.mtroyal.ca/positivespace Email: stavcer@mtroyal.ca The Positive Space Committee at Mount Royal College works to raise awareness and challenge the patterns of silence that continue to marginalize lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans-gendered, two-spirited and queer (LGBTTQ) individuals. Pride Calgary (403) 262-3410 http://www.pridecalgary.ca Pride Festival 2007 - June 01 - 10, 2007 Pride Kick-Off Party - Friday, June 01, 2007 Pride begins with the official Pride Kick-Off events party and continues with a celebration of arts and cultural festivities, community events presented by Pride Calgary in conjunction with local arts cultural and community organizations. Pride Parade - Sunday, June 03, 2007 The Pride Parade will start at 8 St SW and head east along 8 Ave SW into Stephan Ave Walk, Calgary’s Historical Main Street. Street Gala at the Plaza - Sunday, June 03, 2007 Formerly known as the Street Festival, located at Olympic Plaza, the heart of Calgary’s Art Community. Entertainment with spectacular Performers, Bands, DJ’s. The Family Zone, Vendors, Beer Garden and more. Military Ball - Friday, June 08, 2007 Located at The Calgary Eagle this is an exhilarating uniform event packed with hot firemen, barechested sailors and camouflaged soldiers. Xist 2007 Forbidden Fruit - Saturday, June 09, 2007 An exhilarating evening of theatre, dance, and interpretation stage performances and music by the best house, disco and pop DJ’s. Location TBA Pride Rainbow Project prp@planet-save.com http://www.priderainbowproject.com The Pride Rainbow Project was started in Fall 2003 by 4 youth of the Unitarian Church of Calgary. The Pride Rainbow Project is a project designed to show support for same-sex marriage in Canada and elsewhere. It is a fabric rainbow banner approximately 5 feet wide, and the goal is to make it 3.2km (2 miles) long, in order to break the world record (set by a group in Florida at 1.25 miles)! It contains the 6 colours of the pride flag: Red, Orange, Yellow, Green, Blue, and Purple. The project is youth run, but anyone can help!. Primetimers Calgary E-mail: primetimerscalgary@gmail.com http://www.primetimerscalgary.com Prime Timers Calgary is designed to foster social interaction for its members through a variety of social, educational and recreational activities. It is open to all gay and bisexual men of any age and

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respects whatever degree of anonymity that each member desires. Rainbow Community Church See our ad on page 23 Hillhurst United Church 1227 Kensington Close N.W. Website: http://www.rainbowcommunitychurch.ca E-mail: roneberly@shaw.ca The Rainbow Community Church is an all-inclusive church. Everyone is welcome (and we mean it!). Services are held every Sunday afternoon at 4: 00 PM. Rocky Mountain Bears http://www.rockymountainbears.com March 9 - Bears Nite Out - Chinook Center Bowladrome. Lower Level of Chinook Center Mall - Intersection of Macleod Trail and Glenmore Trail. Come show off your best moves or simply hang out and watch a little 5 pin bowling. There are two lanes booked for the evening with the action starting at 9:00pm. It is best to get there 15 minutes early to get your shoes and pick a ball. Each game costs $4.75 per person plus $1.75 charge for shoes rental. March 15 - Meeting - MoneyPennies - 1742 10 Avenue S.W. Bears meet at MoneyPennies to plan upcoming events. 7:30pm in the upstairs room. March 18 - Bears Do Chocolate - The Chocolate Bar - 1431 17 Avenue S.W. Did you get any for Valentines Day?(Chocolate that is...) If not or if you want it all the time, then come on out for an afternoon of indulgence. Meet at the Chocolate Bar at 3:00pm and enjoy a tantalizing treat! March T.B.A. - Volunteer Nite - Calgary Eagle - 424A 8 Avenue S.E. Bears work as front door greeters at the Calgary Eagle from 9:30pm to 2:00am. Volunteers needed. Contact Bob at trackscub@aol.com. March 31 - Bears Bar Nite - Calgary Eagle - 424A 8 Avenue S.E. Bears head to the Calgary Eagle to enjoy a beverage anytime after 10:00pm Safety Under The Rainbow http://www.safetyrainbow.ca Mission: To raise awareness and understanding of same-sex domestic violence and homophobic youth bullying.

violence and homophobic bullying. Survey – Conduct a survey on how same-sex domestic violence and homophobic bullying affects GLBTT individuals. Contact the office if you would be willing to fill out this survey. Sharp Foundation Phone: (403) 272-2912 E-mail: sharpfoundation@nucleus.com http://www.thesharpfoundation.com SHEQ Soulful Healing Ego Quest (403) 234-8973 or glcsa@glcsa.org http://www.glcsa.org/ A workshop for women that want to be themselves in a supportive, safe environment. It is a chance to grow and share their experiences related to women’s sexuality. Runs for a ten week period on Thursdays at 7pm. Call Trudy or Krista at 5857437. To participate, please call the exclusive SHEQ line at 585-7437 (you may leave a voice message for Trudy or Krista) or leave your name and a contact time/number with the Gay & Lesbian Community Services Association at 234-8973. Speak Sebastian http://www.cjsw.com Radio Show – Every first & third Wednesday from 9-10pm. Radio for the gay, lesbian, bisexual, trans gender and kink community. Listen on CJSW FM 90.9. Urban Sex http://www.cjsw.com Radio Show – Every second & forth Wednesday from 9-10pm. Focus on sexuality; gay bisexual lesbian trans gendered and straight issues here in Calgary and around the web. Listen on CJSW FM 90.9. Western Leather Federation Coffee Night – Wed, 8:30pm. At the Calgary Eagle. Womynspace (403) 234-8973 or womynspace@glcsa.org http://www.glcsa.org/ Peer social/support group for women providing an evening of fun, bonding, discussion and activities. Meets every first and third Friday 7pm to 9pm at GLCSA.

Project Areas:

Vigor Calgary (403) 255-7004 http://www.vigorcalgary.ca/

Partnerships – Create partnerships with like-minded groups. Organize a meeting to discuss a provincewide cross-sector entity addressing domestic violence and homophobic bullying.

Violence in Gay Male Relationships (VIGOR) is a committee of professionals dedicated to increasing the awareness of gay men’s domestic violence and the services available to them.

Training - Develop and pilot training modules that address GLBTT domestic violence and homophobic youth bullying. See the website or contact the office for information on the next training session.

“Yeah... What She Said!” Every Monday evening from 8:30-9:00pm CJSW 90.9 FM yeahwhatshesaid@gmail.com

Research – Conduct an enviro-scan of services and support available to GLBTT family violence and abuse victims.

Youth 4 Youth (403) 283-5880 http://www.youth4youth.com

Directory – Publish a province-wide directory of services and supports addressing same-sex domestic

YouthSafe http://www.youthsafe.net

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Alberta’s website for youth with sex-and-gender differences. Youthsafe.net lists the resources, information and services to help youth find safe and caring spaces in Alberta.

Restaurants

Calgary Eagle Inc. O4 See our ad on page 27 424a - 8 Ave SE • (403) 263-5847 Open Tues-Sun 4pm-close http://www.calgaryeagle.com Jane Doe Marketplace & Cafe O50 See our ad on page 5 311 17 Avenue SW • (403) 245-5263 Calgary’s Only Marketplace featuring Women Entrepreneurs. Coffee Shop too! Money-Pennies O9 See our ad on page 35 1742 - 10 Ave SW • (403) 263-7411

Theatre and Art Alberta Ballet http://www.albertaballet.com Cinderella - March 22 - 24 Dracula - April 9 - 10 ATP, Alberta Theatre Projects O36 Phone: (403) 294-7402 http://www.ATPlive.com March 13 – April 1, 2007 - TEMPTING PROVIDENCE, by Robert Chafe, A presentation from Theatre Newfoundland and Labrador April 17 – May 5, 2007 - SITTING ON PARADISE, by Eugene Stickland AXIS Contemporary Art 107, 100 – 7 Ave. SW • (403) 262-3356 rob@axisart.ca Monday to Friday: 10am to 6pm Saturday: 10am to 5:30pm Sunday: 11am to 3pm First Thursdays (the First Thursday of each month): 10am to 8pm Broadway Across Canada See our ad on page 10 http://www.broadwayacrosscanada.ca Mar. 27 - Apr. 1, 2007 - The Producers at the Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium Everything you’ve heard is true! “Mel Brooks has put the comedy back into musical comedy. The Producers is the funniest, most fearlessly irreverent thing ever seen on stage!” (USA Today). And now you can experience the biggest Tony Award® winner in Broadway history when it comes to your town! Directed and choreographed by five-time Tony Award® winner Susan Stroman (Crazy For You, Contact, The Music Man). The New York Times raves “ The Producers is a blissful spectacle that will leave you delirious!” Jun. 19 -24, 2007 - Mamma Mia!, Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium A mother. A daughter. 3 possible dads. And a trip down the aisle you’ll never forget! Over 20 million

people all around the world have fallen in love with the characters, the story and the music that make MAMMA MIA! The ultimate feel-good show! Writer Catherine Johnson’s sunny, funny tale unfolds on a Greek island paradise. On the eve of her wedding, a daughter’s quest to discover the identity of her father brings 3 men from her mother’s past back to the island they last visited 20 years ago. The storytelling magic of ABBA’s timeless songs propels this enchanting tale of love, laughter and friendship, and every night everyone’s having the time of their lives! With more productions playing internationally than any other musical, MAMMA MIA! Is the World’s No.1 Show Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra http://www.cpo-live.com • (403) 571-0849 Fairytales International Gay & Lesbian Film Festival See our ad on page 57 http://www.fairytalesfilmfest.com Looks Could Kill Art Boutique Art Central, lower level #11, 100 7th Ave SW • (403) 264-7576 New Gallery O25 516D - 9 Ave SW • (403) 233-2399 Open Tuesday to Saturday from 11am to 5pm One Yellow Rabbit O35 Big Secret Theatre – EPCOR CENTRE for the Performing Arts • (403) 299-8888 http://www.oyr.org March 14 - 31, 2007, Spymonkey (from Great Britain, Spain and Germany): Bless. Still tan from the glow of two tours of duty at Cirque du Soleil’s Las Vegas show Zumanity, Euro-comedy masters Spymonkey return to Calgary. Bless is the third play of the Murdston Trilogy (Stiff, and last season’s runaway sellout hit Cooped), completing the oeuvre of the great English actor-manager Forbes Murdston, and reuniting his fellow thespians Alfredo Graves, Mandy Bandy and Udo Keller, in a miraculously divine comedy. With puppets and thespians working together, through a series of vignettes that span time, geography and a variety of theatrical stylishness, Bless is a show about the goodness in mankind. Some of the goodness has been exaggerated; some of it is purely accidental. QUAB Gallery Inc. O43 212, 100th 7th Avenue SW • (403) 261-2855 http://www.quab.ca Pumphouse Theatre O37 2140 Pumphouse Avenue SW • (403) 263-0079 http://www.pumphousetheatres.ca Stagewest 727 42 Avenue SE • (403) 243-6642 http://www.stagewestcalgary.com NUNSENSE – a Musical Comedy, Book, Music & Lyrics by: Dan Goggin, February 15 – April 22, 2007 Winner of four “Outer Critics Circle Awards” including “Best Off-Broadway Musical” in its original New York production, the show is a fundraiser put on by the Little Sisters of Hoboken to raise money to bury a sister accidentally poisoned

by the convent cook, Sister Julia (Child of God). “You don’t have to be Catholic to love Nunsense” (Entertainment Tonight). “ A hall of fun an frolic! Wacky and outrageous with a hysterical anything goes sense of fun” (N.Y. Times). Stride Gallery O47 1004 MacLeod Trail SE • (403) 262-8507 http://www.stride.ab.ca Theatre Junction http://www.theatrejunction.com Truck Gallery O46 815 1st Street SW (Basement) • (403) 261-7702 http://www.truck.com Vertigo Mystery Theatre O34 161, 115 – 9 Ave SE • (403) 221-3708 http://www.vertigomysterytheatre.com

Edmonton Listings Bars and Clubs

Boots & Saddles O5 10242 106th St • (780)423-5014 Buddy’s Nite Club O6 See our ad on page 6 11725 Jasper Ave • (780) 488-6636 http://www.buddysniteclub.ca/ Prism Bar & Grill O8 See our ad on page 28 10524 101st St • (780) 990-0038 http://www.prismbar.ca

The Roost O9 10345 104th St • (780) 426-3150 http://www.theroostniteclub.com Woody’s O12 See our ad on page 67 11725 Jasper Ave • (780) 488-6557

Bathhouse and Sauna’s Down Under Baths O7 12224 Jasper Ave •(780) 482-7960 http://www.gayedmonton.com/

Steamers O10 9668 Jasper Avenue • (780) 422-2581 Steamworks O11 See our ad on page 65 11745 Jasper Ave• (780) 451-5554 http://www.buddysniteclub.ca/

Businesses

B & D Emporium O13 #101 11745 Jasper Ave• (780) 428-5847 http://www.bdemporiumedmonton.com Cruiseline See our ad on page 71 (780) 413-7122 trial code 3500 http://www.cruiseline.ca Phone chat room & talking classifieds for 18+ Pride Construction (780) 239-9197 Construction and Renovations

Community Groups and Organizations Buck Naked Boys Club (Edmonton) Naturism club for men. Meets the second Saturday of each month. (780) 471-6993 http://www.bucknakedboys.ca Our club has been meeting continuously for over 10 years. The similar club in Calgary ceased to exist several years ago. Naturism is being social while everyone is naked, and it does not include sexual activity. Therefore participants do not need to be gay, only male, but almost all participants over the years do self-describe as being gay or bisexual. Edmonton Pride Week Society http://www.prideedmonton.org Edmonton Pride Week 2007 Pride Week: June 15 - 24 Friday, June 15 Kicking off Pride with the Annual Pride Awards and Reception and the raising of the Pride Flag at City Hall Saturday, June 16 - Pride Parade! (Heading down Jasper Avenue and ending up at Churchill Square) After Parade Party: on Churchill Square -(Includes the Business and Community Group Fair, Family Fun area, live entertainment, food vendors and Beer Gardens) Thursday, June 21 - EVM Concert: Forever Young - A Folk Music Hootenanny Cloverdale Hall with the Bridge City Chorus of Saskatoon Friday, June 22 - Acts Of Pride (An evening of Queer theatre, dance and all things wonderful.) at La Cite

Francophone Theatre Saturday, June 23 - Pride Dance, Location TBA ERBA - Edmonton Rainbow Business Association #3379, 11215 Jasper Avenue • (780) 49154458 http://www.edmontonrba.org Our primary focus is the provision of networking opportunities for gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgendered (GLBT) owned or operated and GLBT-friendly businesses in the Edmonton region. Membership is open to all kinds of entrepreneurs, from tradespeople to professionals to commission salespeople. The Edmonton Rainbow Business Association After Business Mixers. Held on the second Wednesday of every month 5:30 – 7:30 pm Mar 14 Garage Burger Bar, 10244 – 106 St, (780) 423-5014 Apr 11 Hulbert’s Coffee House, 7601 – 115 St, (780) 436-1161 May 9 Woody’s, 11723 Jasper Ave, (780) 4886557 Jun 13 Prism, 10524 – 101 St, (780) 990-0038 Edmonton STD O4 11111 Jasper Ave Edmonton Vocal Minority See our ad on page 43 http://www.evmchoir.com Phone: 780-479-2038 Free To Be volleyball Amiskiwcy Academy, 101 Airport Rd. (near the

gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #41, March 2007

downtown airport) Every Wednesday and Thursday night, 8pm-10pm Welcome GLBT players! Wednesday night recreational level: All players and skill levels welcome. Contact Marc for more information: padremark@hotmail.com, Tel: (780) 445-0365. Thursday night intermediate level: Coaching and drills provided. Contact Alex for more information: flipside@telus.net, Tel: (780) 424-9984. (Please note that there is limited space on the intermediate night) HIV Network Of Edmonton Society O3 11456 Jasper Ave Imperial Sovereign Court of the Wild Rose http://www.gayedmonton.org Living Positive (Edmonton Persons Living with HIV Society) O2 (780) 488-5768 http://www.edmlivingpositive.ca Providing confidential one-on-one peer support for infected or affected individuals…. Internet support peersupport@edmlivingpositive.ca Northern Chaps http://www.northernchaps.com Northern Chaps is Edmonton’s original leather, latex, fetish, uniform club. We have been in existence officially since 1987 but have been in existence originally around 1982 in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. Everyone is welcome to join or attend events Northern Chaps is a social group existing for the purpose of providing a safe, accepting social climate to people interested in the leather/fetish/uniform lifestyle. Northern Chaps believes that people should be free to express their individuality and to exercise personal lifestyle choices without social constraint, to the extent that they do not interfere with the freedoms of others. In particular, Northern Chaps defends and pursues this belief on behalf of gay men and lesbian women who, through positive alternative lifestyles, seek to explore the boundaries of their sexuality, including the use of certain associated dress, signs and symbols, and safe, sane and consensual behaviors. Pride Centre of Edmonton O1 95A St. and 111 Ave. • (780) 488-3234 - Bears Movie Night Bears club of Edmonton meets the last Sunday of the month for movies 1- 6 pm in the TV room at the Pride Centre of Edmonton 95A St. and 111 Ave. Ph: (780) 488-3234 - Trans Education/Support Group Support and education for all transsexual, transgendered, intersexed, two-spirited and questioning individuals meets 1st, 3rd and last Sunday of each month, 2-4 pm at the Pride Centre of Edmonton 95A St. and 111 Ave. Ph: (780) 488-3234 22

- Sunday Night Mens Discussion Group Mens social and discussion group meets every Sunday @ 7 pm at the Pride Centre of Edmonton 95A St. and 111 Ave. Ph: 488-3234, Contact: Rob Wells - robwells780@hotmail.com - Monday Movie Night Weekly movie nights, with themed movies and discussion afterwards at the Pride Centre of Edmonton 95A St. and 111 Ave. Ph: (780) 488-3234 - The HIV Positive Gay Men’s Group Drop in caring circle every Thursday, 1-4 pm @ 79 pm in main area, at the Pride Centre of Edmonton 95A St. and 111 Ave. Ph: (780) 488-3234 Facilitator: Mark, HIV Outreach The HIV positive Gay Men’s Group is a place for gay men to come and share their feelings on how it is affecting their personal lives. This is a personal private time for them to express how it has changed their outlook on life. As well to support and help each other dealing with being HIV positive. Whatever is said in the room stays within the room. Remember! You are not alone! - Youth Understanding Youth Youth support and social group meets every Saturday from 7 to 9 pm at the Pride Centre of Edmonton 95A St. and 111 Ave. Ph: (780) 4883234 Contact: yuy@shaw.ca (www.members. shaw.ca/yuy ) - Womonspace 1st Sunday of every month from 10 am to 1 pm at the Pride Centre of Edmonton 95A St. and 111 Ave. Ph:488-3234 Contact Womonspace for details http://www.gaycanada.com/womonspace/

- GLBT Seniors Drop IN Every Thursday Pride Centre (95A St. and 111 Ave.), 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm The Pride Centre is thrilled to introduce a new program serving our GLBT seniors. Hosted by Jeff Bovee, contact the Centre at 488-3234 for more info.

Theatre and Art Alberta Ballet http://www.albertaballet.com Cinderella - March 30 - 31 Dracula - April 12 - 13 Broadway Across Canada http://www.broadwayacrosscanada.ca

Lethbridge Listings GALA/LA - Gay and Lesbian Alliance of Lethbridge and Area (403) 308-2893 (live on Mon. and Wed. evenings until 11 p.m.) http://www.newgaylethbridge.ca Monthly dances (Sept.-May) start Sept. 16 at Croatian hall Call for directions, or for information on P-Flag, campus groups and monthly pot-luck dinners

Red Deer Listings

- Prime Timers Monthly Member Meetings at the Pride Centre of Edmonton 95A St. and 111 Ave. Ph:488-3234

Affirm Composed of LGBTQ people, their friends, family and allies. No religious affiliation necessary. Activities include support, faith and social justice discussions, film nights, and potlucks! Affirm meets the second Tuesday of the month at 7PM at Sunnybrook United Church, (403) 347-6073.

- Suit Up and Show Up Big Book Study Saturdays at 12 noon. At Pride Centre

National Listings

- Sick and tired of being sick and tired? Cocaine Anonymous meeting Thursdays 7-8pm CA Hotline 425-2715

Businesses

- Youth Drop-in Every Wednesday at 5:00pm Open to all youth 25 years and under Contact brendan@pridecentreofedmonton.org or call 488-3234 for more info. - Men’s HIV Support Group Will be meeting on each second Monday of the month. At the Pride Center, Edmonton Starting in April, from 7pm to 9pm. - Parents Rock the World Workshops PFLAG Canada: Edmonton Chapter - Workshop Series Tuesdays (Feb 7, March 7, April 4, May 2, June 6), Pride Centre (95A St. and 111 Ave.) 7:00 – 10:00 p.m. Ph: (780) 488-3234 A series of workshops for Parents of Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender and Questioning children. Each session will feature a 30 – 45 minute topic specific presentation, followed by a group discussion. Social time for sharing and networking will follow at the end of each session. Call the Pride Centre to register or for more details.

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Love and Pride Gay and Lesbian themed Jewelry http://www.loveandpride.ca Squirt See our ad on page 70 Dating and hookups website http://www.squirt.org Wega Video See our ad on page 16 Adult DVD’s http://www.wegavideo.ca

Community Groups and Organizations Canadian Rainbow Health Coalition / Coalition santé arc-en-ciel Canada P.O. Box / C.P. 3043 Saskatoon SK Canada S7K 3S9 306-955-5135 toll -free / sans frais 1-800-955-5129 fax/ télécopieur 306-955-5132 http://www.rainbowhealth.ca http://www.santearc-en-ciel.ca Egale Canada #310, 396 Cooper Ottawa, ON K2P 2H7 1-888-204-7777 toll free Stephen Lock – Regional Co-Director (Male) Prairies/NWT/Nunavut (403) 708-5302 cell phone http://www.egale.ca stephenlock@egale.ca Egale Canada is the national advocacy and lobby organization for gay men, lesbians, bisexuals, trans-identified people and our families. Membership fees are pay-what-you-can, although pre-authorized monthly donors are encouraged (and get a free Egale Canada t-shirt). Egale has several committees that meet by teleconference on a regular basis; membership on these is national with members from every region of Canada.

Theatre and Art Brothers TV See our ad on page 52

http://www.brotherstv.com OUTtv See our ad on page 58 http://www.outtv.ca If you would like to add your business or non-profit group to the list above, please call (403) 5436960, or toll free 1 (888) 543-6960 or E-mail magazine@gaycalgary.com. You can add your information to the GayCalgary.com directory on the website for free. GayCalgary.com endeavors to have the information here as accurate as possible. Events and listings can change at any time so it is recommended that you check with the establishment before you head out. Non-Profit groups get free listings. Business receive a listing once an ad has been placed. The business listing will last 1 year after the appear up to ad has been placed unless there is a GayCalgary.com service located at that business.

Just Ask Nina!

The Dish who dishes advice By Nina Tron Dear Nina, Recently I found out that my ex boyfriend has found another man. He and I were together on and off for three or so years. Recently we broke up and before I was even out of the apartment he had hooked with this twink. I know that we were eventually both going to meet other people but should there be a mourning period? Please help settle this matter for me, I am I right or am I wrong? - Lost at Sea

Dear Lost, Well first off, sorry to hear about your break up! But sweetie you have got to pull yourself together and stop this constant obsession with whether you are right or wrong. There is no right or wrong answer. Besides, you all broke up, so I would say he’s Mr. Wrong anyways. I’ve asked around and really there is no clear or specific answer. From what I have gathered, most people agree at least 3 months, but it varies for everyone. Take whatever time you need before you yourself start dating, but you can’t expect others to follow as well. YOUR rules are only yours. Now if you’re asking if I think he’s a complete ass for dating some guy before you even were out of the house, HELL YEAH!! I can only say that nobody deserves to be kicked when they’re down. Really though, by sounds of things my dear, you are way better off without him. Now get out of that rutt girl, and get back in the game. And remember there are many more fish in the sea. Can I get an ‘amen’ in the room?! Best wishes, Nina I am here for you, and I look forward to hearing from you all, I can be reached at: AskNina@gaycalgary.com or Mailed to Ask Nina c/o GayCalgary.com Magazine, Suite 100, 215 14th Avenue SW, Calgary, Alberta T2R 0M2. You can also watch Nina every Sunday night and events through out the week at Twisted Element, 1006 11th Avenue SW. Other than the question, all personal information (i.e. name, address, E-mail) will remain confidential. GayCalgary.com does reserve the right to alter questions for brevity and content. Responses are for entertainment value only.

gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #41, March 2007

Eating Out 2

Sloppy Seconds, A Tasty Dish By Benjamin Hawkcliffe The romantic comedy Eating Out was one of the most popular films at the 2004 Fairy Tales Film Festival. So it was with a great amount of excitement that I recently curled up with my boyfriend to preview its sequel, Eating Out 2: Sloppy Seconds, which will be screened as part of OutFest in April. Kyle (American Idol’s Jim Verraros) is back, pretending to be an ex gay now turned heterosexual, to land bi-confused cutie Troy (The insanely hot and tragically straight in real life Marco Dapper). Assisted by friends Gwen (Emily Brooke Hands) and Tiffani (Rebekah Kochan), Kyle tries to play straight while lusting after Troy. Meanwhile, Kyle’s ex boyfriend Marc (Brett Chukerman) is horrified at the plan and decides to pursue the confused Troy with his own tactic - being his out gay self. The movie is sexually charged, has lots of shirtless scenes, and has many parts that are downright hilarious. The movie hits a bit of a groaning moment towards the end as it tries to rush a happy ending, but it quickly redeems itself with more twisted humor. “I was the editor on the first Eating Out, and Allan (Brocka, writer-director of Eating Out) was a fan of my short film Crush,” director Phillip J. Bartell told GayCalgary & Edmonton. “He asked me if I had a good idea for part two, and he and Michael Shoel (producer of both films) loved my idea and I immediately started on the script. …Why do a sequel? Because the first one did so well that Michael figured, ‘Let’s see how a sequel does.’ There’s never been a gay American sequel, so he thought it’d be fun, being the first. And I liked the idea of twisting the idea of the first film, where a straight guy played it gay. It is such fun to see a gay guy playing straight, which we can laugh at more now that we’re in an era where that doesn’t happen as much as it used to. And plus, for me it was the opportunity to direct my first feature and see if I could adapt my style to the world Allan created in the first movie, while still putting some of myself into the film. The movie, with its crass humor, isn’t for everybody of course. But those who are willing to jump aboard our hot, politically incorrect train seem to have a blast.” Bartell has a great deal of experience in the editing role, working on past films like The Wedding Planner, Being John Malkovich and Psycho. Working under many great directors helped prepare him to step behind the camera himself “My background is as an editor, and working on movies directed by Gus Van Sant, Spike Jonze, and Robert Altman were invaluable learning experiences, and to this day still give me good stories to tell at parties. Being in the editing room is one of the best places to learn about directing - you study performance, composition, and how to tell a story in the most economical way... thus, my screenplays usually end up being lean and mean. And on a 10 day shoot, since I had a good idea of how the scenes were going to cut together, I could shoot as little as possible and still know when I had something covered.” It’s also given him the chance to rub shoulders with J-Lo.

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Preview | Theatre We got off topic slightly when discussing the woman who has planned many of her own weddings. “I met Jennifer when we went to do her ADR in New York. Did you like how I just called her ’Jennifer,’ like we’re tight? Haha. We worked together for two days and had lunch with the director, Adam Shankman, on the second day, so there’s no way in hell she’d even be able to pick me out of a line-up. She was cold the first evening we worked together because she’d spent the entire day working on the J. Lo album and was understandably tired. But on day two she warmed up and I actually got it, her particular kind of charm. And she was stunning to look at - flawless skin, and I wanted her cashmere jump suit.” Now, I have a confession to make. I think I may have fallen for Marco Dapper. His infectious aww-shucks grin, incredible body, accent… oh, and he gets naked. As he stood there in all his glory, I paused the movie and stared at the screen. I almost thought he was wearing a prosthetic… “It’s all real, baby. 100% real. The boy is blessed.” Ok, so Bartell spent ten days surrounded by very hot guys in various states of undress. A tough job I am sure, and I had to ask how he managed to not jump half his cast. “I had a couple of crushes, I’ll admit. But when you’re shooting a feature in 10 days, it’s difficult to spend any time with anyone who is not involved in whatever shot you are doing at that particular moment. Plus, I have one rule in life: no dating actors.... although you said ’jump,’ not ’date.’ No rules about jumping.” Based on the title of the film, you can make a guess about some of what takes place in the movie. So I asked Bartell what one person he would eat out? “Angelina Jolie, because maybe there’d be some remnants of Brad there. Ewww, I just grossed myself out! Oh wait, you said one ‘person,’ but because of what happens in the movie, I figured you meant a woman. As for men, God, the list is endless, but Ryan Squared (Philippe and Reynolds) probably top the list. Or bottom, as it may be.” I prepared myself for my final question. Quite possibly the most important question asked in the history of this magazine. Can I get Marco’s phone number? “310-555-- Oh, oops, I seem to have misplaced it...” Teasing bitch. Eating Out 2 Monday April 2nd, 2007 7:30pm & 9:30pm Where: Engineered Air Theatre. Epcor Center. 205 8th AVE SE http://www.myspace.com/eatingout2

Q Scopes

“Take big risks, Aries!” By GayCalgary Staff Venus in Aries turns up the flirtatious heat, and Mercury in Aquarius can make tongues move faster than brains. Pluto aspects both, pouring warm, greasy lube all over the slippery slope. ARIES (March 20 - April 19): Hanging out with friends and just being your own sweet self can open up adventures far beyond anything you expected. The wilder the ride, the greater the rewards. You can hardly go wrong, so take big risks. TAURUS (April 20 - May 20): Your great reserves of inner strength are no secret, although the erotic power in that strength may be much overlooked. This week, your sexiness is evident to all, and that charge could help you get ahead at work. GEMINI (May 21 - June 20): What starts out as an innocent intellectual endeavor can raise provocative questions with friends and create shifting alliances. Some could even shift into hot-and-high gear! New romances may have an urgent quality now, but that could pass very quickly. CANCER (June 21 - July 22): Be fearless - but not reckless! - in pursuit of your career goals now. Shrewd forethought will enable grabbing the notice you need to get ahead. A confident swagger will also help you in work and in love. Keeping the two separate may get tricky. LEO (July 23 - August 22): You’re open to any playful adventure, and you’re enough of a selfstarter that you don’t need any help. Still, you’ll turn your spree to better advantage if you let your partner, or any companion, offer direction and inspiration.

Lifestyle | Astrology SCORPIO (October 23 - November 21): Staying on purpose at work will bring great rewards. A little flirtatious charm may help, but a little goes a long way! Traditional wisdom or simple lessons learned in childhood from your parents will help you keep perspective. SAGITTARIUS (November 22 - December 20): Playful banter is flying fast and fierce these days. Of course, you’ll contribute more than your share. You’re also in a special position to assuage bruised egos and soften blows that hit harder than intended. Make good use of your diplomatic talents! CAPRICORN (December 21 - January 19): Staying home need not be dull. Right now, you’re more dazzling in your own environment, so offer to host as much as you can. This could create some financial challenges, but the experience will help you learn economy and resourcefulness. AQUARIUS (January 20 - February 18): Your political instincts are even sharper than usual, and your charms are more suave. Heed your first instincts and fire from the hip. Fast and daring is the way to succeed. Don’t even bother to look before you leap! PISCES (February 19 - March 19): Trust your first instincts about money and career questions. Thinking too long can make you muddled. Intuitive hunches now can pay off big, although committed efforts may be needed between the inspiration and the reward.

VIRGO (August 23 - September 22): Ideas at work are easily turned into naughty fantasies. Keep those lewd ideas to yourself, and put a lid on the sparks until you get home. The lift in your attitude will translate into better work. LIBRA (September 23 - October 22): Your wit is dangerously bawdy these days - and so out of character for someone so tasteful! But as Diana Vreeland noted, some occasional bad taste is fine, and better than no taste at all. The unexpected spice will be good for all concerned. Let it rip!

gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #41, March 2007

Adult Film Review

Cum, Manscape, Breathless, Forced Entry Review | Adult Male

By Jerome Voltero “Breathless” by Titan Media, Courtesy of Priape The film opens with François Sagat, shirtless and running along a set of train tracks through the countryside. This isn’t a casual jog however – his frequent looks back over his shoulder hint that he is being chased. Surely enough, the shirtless and rifle-toting Don Camillo and Julian Vincenzo are hot on his trail. Sagat stops by a small pond to drink and catch his breath, but his pursuers catch him and roughly attempt to subdue the fugitive. With a belt around his neck, they guide Sagat like a dog to a location further off the beaten track, where they take advantage of their newfound prisoner. Boy do they ever use him, and once they’re done they walk off leaving Sagat lying on his back – you guessed it – breathless.

along the lines of what Sweet Pussy Pauline might say if she were a man. He periodically breaks into utterances of Spanish, but don’t worry about getting an interpreter – he is only swearing and saying “take-it take-it!” With the office door wide open, the security guard Rod Barry walks in to survey the scene. He and the janitor know one another quite well, and soon Barry is helping Martinez to break in the office boy. I thought I recognized Monroe from somewhere – last film I saw him in, he was showing off his ability to take two at a time. Sure enough, he does the same trick in this movie. Even if he’s a one-trick pony, that’s one heck of a trick! The general theme of this film is that of reluctant guys getting pushed into sex. It’s not to the point of rape because the reserved guys don’t resist too much, and quickly get into it. Still it is something that will appeal to a bondage audience, or to others turned on by forceful sex. My highlights were Dean Monroe, Jay Armstrong, and Manuel Torres. “Cum in my Ass” by SX Video, Courtesy of Adult Depot There’s nothing subtle about the title of this porno, just like there’s nothing subtle about its star Patrick Ives. He is a browneyed brutish daddy that gives new meaning to “taking it like a man.”

With such an odd sequence of events and sex scenes, I figure the only thing Sagat is running from is a cohesive plot. In this movie world, there is an abundance of men just hanging around shirtless in the forest – no tents or camping gear – they huddle around fires and survive on cock alone. It’s primal, and actually quite sexy if not horribly impractical.

It didn’t matter how unattractive some of his cohorts were – and believe me, some of them were nigh skeletal – Ives steals the show with his manly grunts and moans. When he is on his back, he shows off his well-built torso and neatly trimmed torso hair; and when on his front, his

The guys are what you would expect to find in the rugged outdoors. Lean and healthy muscular specimens, with plenty of fur to keep them warm at night…aside from the other men, I mean. My favorites furry studs were Alex Baresi, Francois Sagat, and Benjamin Stark, but just about all of them would appeal to those who like hardy grown-up guys. “Forced Entry” by Mustang Studios, Courtesy of Priape Dean Monroe is forced to work late at the threat of being fired by his asshole of a boss. It is a long night and he works himself to the point of frustration, whereupon he maliciously decides he is going to leave his boss a DNA sample as a present. Unfortunately the tough-looking Latino caretaker walks in to find Monroe jacking off over his own desk, and after some threats are thrown back and forth, caretaker Ricky Martinez (not to be confused with Ricky Martin) shows the pencil pusher who will be screwing who. Martinez’s angry gangsta dirty-talk is quite drole, somewhat

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bitable tan-lined ass. If Ives is your turn-on, then you will want to hold your guns until the last scene where he is plowed by Sebastien León – an equally built and furry hunk. Usually long-ish hair is a turn-off for me, but I finally found an exception in León. He is bright red and dripping sweat before he finally loses his load on Ives. After getting it from 8 guys, Ives gets to climax with the help of his favorite dildo. For the longest time I have idolized Hank Hightower as my sexual “ideal”. After seeing this film, step aside Hank because Ives is my new hard-throb…I mean, heart-throb. “Manscape” by Pacific Sun Entertainment, Courtesy of Adult Depot Adult Depot has a huge selection of gay DVDs, so it’s never difficult to find something worth renting outside of the new releases rack. This film was shot on location in Brazil, with a spicy inter-

racial cast of Latin and Black Brazilians.

Attack of the Celebrities Letter from the Publisher

In the first scene, a big black stud has hired a masseur to work out some imagined pain in his back, and play a little game. As the young Latino employee begins, you hear a steamy monologue about how the black guy intends to seduce him. Soon enough the Latino takes off his shirt and his employer turns over for a front massage. His jogging pants don’t stay on for very long.

continued from page 6

The guys in this film are young and thin, but still reasonably chiseled. Aside from one facial-haired representative in each racial camp, the rest are clean shaven. The remainder of the scenes feature Black on Latino, and Latino on Latino. If dark skinned ethnic guys are a turn on, you’ll certainly be satisfied with this DVD.. Priape Calgary Canada’s Favorite Gay Store 1322, 17th Avenue SW – (403) 215-1800 http://www.priape.ca Adult Depot Over 2500 Gay Titles for Sale or Rent 1514B 14th Street SW – (403) 264-7399 140 – 58th Ave SW – (403) 258-2777 afterdk@telus.net

won’t be opening a new gay bar in Calgary anytime soon. Our article this month on page 31 investigates just how complicated it really is to open a bar. If you think it can happen over night, whoo boy, you’ve got another thing coming! Homosexual Sexism? It’s a worrying trend that Steve and I are seeing more and more of in Calgary’s community – gay men who don’t like to be around women, lesbian or no. It could have been the attitude that was cultivated for many years at the former Metro Boyztown, a private men’s club where lesbians and straight women (typically “fag hags”) could only gain entry to the establishment as the guest of a male member. This practice may have resulted in a segment of our generation that has grown intolerant of women – people who feel entitled to a men-only space where such discrimination is okay. If this is the case, then it is a rift that will take many years to heal. In speaking with several bar goers, many have admitted that they feel uncomfortable being themselves around the crowds of “straight women” that are “invading our clubs”. I question whether the Boyztown generation would even know a young lesbian if they bumped into one, or if that fact would even matter to them? All I know is that a contingent of males in the gay community are crying to have Boyztown back for this exact reason. Money Pennies Eatery and Bar has tried to remain a bastion of openness between men and women over the years. Owners Lorrie and Michele have always felt that the mingling of the two genders is a positive thing because we can learn a lot from each other. Sexism has never been an issue for the Backlot, The Calgary Eagle, or the Texas Lounge, however their clientele remains predominantly male. The Twisted Element reports that they frequently resist complaints from male customers, asking that they take action to cull the female population entering their doors. But at the same time, lesbians have complained that the club doesn’t do enough for their female customers. It seems that the bar-going male population would rather pressure for a new Boyztown than take the opportunity to become comfortable around their fellow human beings, and be better people for it. I argue that it is even unfair to discriminate against straight people. A female friend of mine from University recently came to the realization that she would be comfortable dating women as she does men. This is something that she may not have realized if she was refused entry to a gay bar for identifying as “straight”. You can never know for sure where a person lies, or can potentially lie, along the spectrum of sexuality. It shouldn’t be our place to judge. In my opinion, the only reason why gay people are still shunned is because of the void of misunderstanding – one that can be bridged by accepting straight people into our folds as we do our own. It is a terrible step back and a huge display of hypocrisy that, after spending so long fighting homophobia, some gay men (and gay women in turn) are adamant to foster equally reprehensible forms of discrimination. If you’re looking rather to express your opinion, write a letter to the publisher by E-mailing Publisher@gaycalgary.com. If you’ve got something good to say about someone or something, then that’s awesome! If you’ve got something bad to say about someone or something…well, just try to keep those claws sheathed!

gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #41, March 2007

Q Puzzle “Body Work,”

Fun | Crosswords

By GayCalgary Staff

CLUE: a crossword featuring quips about masseurs Across 1 Protector of k.d. lang and Janis Ian 6 Comes out on the beach 10 Rainbow shape 14 Gay ___ (anti-Gay Pride group) 15 Miss, to Mme. de Stael 16 Oliver! request 17 Hung like a ___ 18 Baseballer Billy, or kind of ball 19 On an Olivia cruise 20 With 48-Across, masseurs? 23 Fruit sugar ending 24 Market tail? 25 Gets ready to shoot off again 26 With 34-Across, “He Touched Me” singer 28 Stick it in a tough guy 30 Shrek’s shoe size, perhaps 31 Culture Club’s “___ Miracle” 32 Cole Porter’s “Katie Went to ___” 33 Banned bug killer 34 See 26-Across 38 Site for three men in a tub 41 Lisa Cholodenko’s spools

42 Where to see sweaty athletes 46 I.M. ___ (contemporary of Philip Johnson) 47 Biters of Marc Antony’s girlfriend 48 See 20-Across 50 Take into custody 52 Magneto portrayer McKellen 53 J. Caesar’s tongue, or back muscle 54 Please, like a masseur? 58 Hairy twin 59 Bear hunter Boone, briefly 60 Controversial path for same-sex partners 62 Longtime lesbian couples often do this 63 Estimator’s phrase 64 “What does she see ___?” 65 Island of Lost Souls director Kenton 66 Western defense gp. 67 Philippines island Down 1 It hangs from your butt 2 Patronizes, as Barneys 3 Goes lickety-split 4 “I ___ Beautiful” (narcissist’s version of a Joe

gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #41, March 2007

Cocker hit?) 5 One of the balls in your head 6 An old flame? 7 Pleasured orally 8 Vanilla 9 Frieda, before she married Diego 10 Kitchen appliance brand 11 Like brilliantly colored lips 12 Got excited 13 Accessory for Madonna 21 Lost and Delirious director Pool 22 Kline of De-Lovely 23 Alec’s Star Wars character 27 Some women’s studies degrees 28 Travels with one’s first mate 29 Greet Pat Robertson 32 Dickens’s Uriah 35 Word that takes “Euro” as a prefix 36 Lay atop 37 To God, to Nero

38 Losing gladiator’s plea 39 Lingerer at the porno rack, e.g. 40 Clean miss at a New York Liberty game 43 Like the Oscars 44 Short theater offering 45 Where to find gay.com 48 “Poppycock!” 49 Require a bottom? 51 Piece for Liberace 52 White house without Bush 55 ___ avis 56 Kinsey’s org. 57 Sometimes-pink drink 61 It may come before long Answer key is on page 70

25 Years of Apollo’s Western Cup Introducing Outgames By Stephen Lock Since its humble beginning as a gay and lesbian sports club in 1982, Apollo: Friends in Sports has become North America’s longest running GLBT sports league and has hosted the Western Cup Tournament for several years. Western Cup is now seen as the longest operating annual sports events in North America. Given that record, the Gay and Lesbian International Sports Association (GLISA), the organizers of OutGames Continental Games, were eager to approach Apollo to host OutGames 2007 in conjunction with Western Cup XXV.

Community|Spotlight conference, OutFest, a cultural event featuring Lily Tomlin as the headliner (see article, page 12), and Western Cup’s anniversary event. “Our segment kicks off with the traditional Friday night party at the Westin, which we are calling “Cowboys and Queens,” chuckled Buckley. The various events are being held at different venues and feature the 3rd Annual Apollo Idol karaoke event, the Casino, and a line dancing event.

“Apollo’s main focus is the OutGames aspect, the sporting aspect,” said Apollo president, Don Buckley. “But there are three components to this – OutGames, OutRights which is the human rights conference, and OutFest, the cultural aspect.”

Saturday night is the Western Cup XXV Dance, “Silver,” being held at the TELUS Convention Centre North. It will feature one of the top DJ’s in North America, DJ Tracy Young, who also performed at the recent Montreal OutGames.

“We aren’t experts in rights issues or cultural events,” he said. “Because we wanted this to be a community event in keeping with OutGames’ philosophy but, also as a way to honour our 25th anniversary, we approached a variety of organizations within the community to partner with us on this.”

The week wraps up with a Celebration event on Sunday, but go and visit the website for more information. The First North America Ougames www.calgary2007.com

The idea of OutGames and the cultural and conference aspects are modeled after the EuroGames and, like those, OutGames will be a GLBT continental event, not just Canadian or Canadian/ American. While Apollo was the initiator of all the events, and coined the terms “OutFest” and “OutRights,” it was important other organizations in the Calgary GLBT community took ownership of the latter two events. Even within the sporting aspect of OutGames, Apollo has partnered with other organizations. “When Western Cup first began, we featured three events – badminton, volleyball, and bowling. We now have expanded that to seven sports, including swimming events, running, and this year we are introducing ice hockey,” said Buckley. “The swimming events are being organized by Different Strokes, while the running events are being organized by Calgary Frontrunners,” he added. “The spirit behind Western Cup has always been to facilitate opportunities for members of the GLBT community, and our supporters, to come together in a spirit of camaraderie and friendly competition.” Adding these further events to Western Cup XXV, and coordinating that with OutGames, will allow for even greater community participation, said Buckley. “OutGames is the umbrella for the week long series of events and while they are all interconnected, they are all distinct components.” When GLISA approached Apollo to do this, the board quickly agreed to tackle the enormous task of hosting OutGames. “We are proud to be hosting OutGames and we are honoured to have GLISA recognize our being the longest-running GLBT sporting event in North America.” The week (April 2 – 8) features OutRights, a human rights

gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #41, March 2007

Building a Bar

It’s not as easy as you may think! Insite |Business

By Rob Diaz-Marino Setting up a bar or restaurant is a complicated process wrought with hoops and hurdles, never mind the day to day chores required to keep it running. The average bar patron would get little idea from what they see by drinking and hanging out in their favourite place, even if for decades. It is certainly easy to sit on one’s duff and say “my city needs a new Gay Bar,” but if a person understood just how much that is to ask, they might think twice about pressuring others to go forward with it. We wrote this article to give an appreciation of the fact that opening a bar isn’t such a trivial matter. As you read this article, ask yourself if you would be willing and able to put up with all of these steps yourself. You’ll find that it takes a great deal of knowledge, experience, and patience to even get a project started. Stage 1: Conceiving your Bar Having a Vision and a Plan – you need to know exactly what your bar is going be. Give it a name and a “face”, and decide on who is your target audience. If you keep it as an idea in your head, then it is nothing – put it down on paper so that you can: • Assess if you have enough resources to pull it off, • Not waste money on things you’ll later realize that you don’t need, • Not waste valuable time dwelling on tough decisions only as you come to them. • Ensure that your bar will attract and satisfy the audience that you intended. Make sure your plan has room for compromise, because you will probably have to. Observe other similar businesses – understanding what they do wrong may come in handy, but focus more on what they do right. Sometimes you can’t control the mistakes that lose customers, but you can control the things that bring new customers in, and old customers back. Gathering the Capital - make sure that you have the financial resources to carry your bar to opening, even if you begin at bare minimum. You can reinvest later on to bring it closer to your original vision. Unless you can get your bar to a point where it can start making money, you will only be wasting yours. Make sure that your funding is solid before you start out, because there is little help down the line. • Banks will not give loans to bars and restaurants because they are considered high risk. If they do, expect pretty heavy collateral – your house may not even suffice. • Some landlords may even ask for your house as collateral in case you bow out on your lease. • Adding more investors may patch early financial shortcomings, but that’s less money in your pocket once the bar starts running. • Investments are made in a business, not in an individual.

Protect yourself; you can’t even trust your own father! All deals should be in writing and passed by a certified lawyer, otherwise you may lose out if something goes wrong. Stage 2: Finding the Space Now is where the nightmares begin – all you have to do is find a space that is the right size for the right price, right? Well it’s not that simple. • The landlord must give approval for you to be a gay bar. If they say no, you are out of luck. Worse, if you mislead them and pour money to build your bar only for them to find out down the line, you can have your lease revoked, and again you are out of luck (and money). • The City controls what kinds of businesses can go into which buildings – this is known as zoning. If the building is not zoned for a bar, only the landlord can make an application to have that zoning changed. The City can refuse that application if they don’t find a bar is appropriate for that part of town. • Your establishment must have sufficient parking to handle your estimated customer base. Prime areas of town can run you a yearly rate of $3000 per parking stall. • The lease may lock you in for a number of years. This can be good – if property prices go up, the landlord can’t change the rent on you for that period of time. If your bar fails, however, you will be stuck paying out the remainder of time on the lease – and if you can’t, remember that collateral? • Regardless of your square footage, the building’s entrances and exits may limit your bar’s capacity. Contact the fire department to learn how they calculate fire capacity, and make sure you can fit the crowds that you are expecting. • You must purchase insurance even before your bar opens. This can run from thousands to the ten thousands of dollars depending on your bar’s size and intended use. Make Smart Decisions – there are good times and bad times to try to open bars. It all depends on the real estate market, and how much landlords are charging for square footage. • Pull out a calculator and crunch some numbers, come up with a ballpark figure for your monthly expenses, and see if your sales will cover those expenses and your rent, and still bring you a profit. • Make a realistic estimate of how many people you would have in your establishment per month. Friday and Saturday nights are usually going to be your money-makers. Assume the best case scenario that you will put through more people than is your capacity (not all at once, of course). According to the sales figures of some past and current gay bars, we figure for a liquor primary establishment that each person would spend an average of $16-$18 per night on alcohol. Now see if you can survive the slow months by dividing that number of customers in half. • You may need to charge cover or raise your drink prices to offset your costs. Unfortunately, if a customer spends too much

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on cover they may not spend as much on alcohol. Furthermore they may not come in as often if things are too expensive. Remember, gay bars don’t charge as much for alcohol as the straight bars get away with – this makes it even more difficult to remain competitive. • Also factor in your target audience – the older crowds tend to spend more money, but the younger crowds may be out more often. • The right space isn’t just out there for the taking – you may be waiting several years before something reasonable becomes available. If you jump the gun and blow your capital, you may ruin your chances for good. Get Ready to Move Quickly – time is money, and every day that your bar is not open, money goes down the toilet. As fast as you think that you can move, remember there are bottlenecks beyond your control that you will be waiting on. • Permits and inspections are your obstacles. Make sure you also have enough money for several months of rent, just in case you have to sit on your hands for that long. • If you are lucky, your landlord may give you a few months of grace while you set up. Don’t count on it though. They may very well ask for three months of rent payment in advance. You’ll be paying even though you’re making nothing back. Stage 3: Preparing the Space You have now signed the lease. Hopefully you hired a lawyer to make sure everything is in order. Here begins the race for time. Renovating – maybe the prior renter of your space has it already set up as a bar or a restaurant. In that case you may only have to spend hundreds of thousands to get things up to code and arranged the way you need them. If you are starting from scratch and having to worry about plumbing, electrical, fire suppression, and ventilation, you can easily spend millions. • City permits are required for construction and demolition. Applications can take months to be processed, and may get denied in the end. The City requires you to submit a floor plan before you can get your construction permit and city licensing. • Once you receive your building permits, you must post notice on the exterior of your building to allow other businesses in your area a chance to express any objection. Though you can begin construction immediately, the notice must be shown for a certain period of time before the renovated area can go into use. If nearby businesses, residences, schools etc. voice valid objection to the intended use of your space, your permit can be revoked, or conditions may be imposed in order for you to proceed. • All permits are public information - their existence and details can be accessed by anyone through the City. If you’re thinking about starting construction without a permit, it doesn’t take much to find out that you’re bending the rules. Aside from that, many builders won’t even touch your place unless you can show them a valid building or demolition permit. The Costs • Even small renovations can get pretty steep, as you are paying for materials and labour. You can save a little on labour by getting your friends and family to help with construction, but they may not have the time or the skills you need. • To serve drinks to your customers you need to install a good deal of hardware and appliances: lines and guns if you want to dispense various drinks, taps if you want draft beer, bar fridges, storage fridges, dish washers, and an ice machine (unless you have a huge fridge to stockpile pre-bought ice). These are in-

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dustrial-grade appliances built for high usage, and can easy cost tens of thousands of dollars. • As a drinking establishment you are obligated to provide food to your customers in some reasonable form, for some reasonable period of time during your hours of operation. This can mean installing a full kitchen to properly cook a variety of food, or simply a microwave with a stock of instant frozen foods. • Don’t forget about furniture – you can’t just walk into a store and buy large quantities of tables and chairs. You’ll need to order them, and wait for them to arrive. • If you are building a dance club, don’t forget about your DJ equipment, sound system, and lighting. Those electronics alone will cost tens of thousands of dollars, which is why a lot of businesses lease rather than buy. Your DJ will need to stock up on music and subscribe to record pools to make sure they are up to date with the latest tunes. This might be a charge that is passed off to you. Licensing • Permits and inspections cost money – if you fail, you not only have to pay to fix the problems, but also to have the inspections done over again. Some permits depend on you possessing others, so if you fail one, you can’t get another type in the meantime. Your licenses must be renewed each year. • Before you can open, you must have your establishment inspected and approved by the fire department and health department. You must also receive security clearance from the city police. Then you can apply for your city licensing, and only after everything else is in place, can you get your liquor permit from the Alberta Liquor and Gaming Commission (AGLC). • To pass the fire department inspection your building needs to have proper fire detection and monitoring systems in place, along with a fire suppression system (fire extinguishers, or a sprinkler system if necessary) especially in the kitchen. You must have clearly marked exits for your patrons that can, under no circumstances, be blocked. Seek official documentation for exact guidelines. • The Health Department can turn you down if your bathrooms are not satisfactory, if your fridges aren’t cold enough, if your dishwashers aren’t hot enough, and more. Obtain official documentation for exact requirements. • When it comes to city licensing, you have some room to choose the specifics: liquor primary vs. food primary, with additional options such as live entertainment, strippers, dancing, and so on. Each licence add-on costs money, and has its own rules that you must adhere to. • The City does extensive background checks on all owners and investors – credit history, criminal records, and taxes – and may refuse permits if they find anything they don’t like. • The AGLC can refuse to issue a liquor permit if your drink serving and kitchen facilities are not appropriate to your particular city license. AGLC also puts you and your investors under the microscope. Obtaining your liquor license is usually the last thing you do before you open. • Your establishment requires a SOCAN license if you are playing any copyright protected music for your customers. Visit www.socan.ca for more details. • Failing to get proper licensing can result in hefty fines and legally enforced closure times now or down the line, which can seriously hurt your chances. Stage 4: Running your Bar Staff - in most cases you can’t do everything yourself.

• You may need to hire bartenders, bussers, waiters, cooks, door staff, and security. • Also remember you may need to hire staff to provide entertainment: DJs, bands, drag performers, strippers, and so on. • Don’t hire staff until you’re certain you have a job for them. They have bills to pay. If it takes too long for their jobs to begin, they may simply move on – or worse, stick around and put themselves at risk. Your bar should be within days of opening before you start them on payroll; otherwise you are haemorrhaging money for them to sit on their hands. • The Health Department requires you to have at least one staff member who has undergone a two-day food safety training course. You may have to pay for members of your staff to undergo this training. This person is then supposed to teach what they know to other employees, and monitor that they are following those guidelines. • The AGLC requires one bartender per shift per licensed room to be certified by their new ASIP training. In 2010, all bartenders must have undergone this training – which you may have to pay for. Visit www.aglc.gov.ab.ca for more details. Operating Costs – the good news is that you can recoup a small amount of your costs through bottle returns. The bad news:

• You may need to hire a graphic designer to create professional-looking ad work and website designs. Amateur designs may appear messy and it may be difficult for people to get the information they need from it – or it may reflect badly on your establishment due to lack of professionalism. • For internal advertising (ie. promoting events to customers within your own venue) you will need to cover print costs for posters and flyers on a monthly basis. • For external print advertising (ie. in magazines like ours) you have to pay for ad space on an issue-by-issue basis. GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine has relatively low costs, but higher-end magazines can charge thousands, and even tens of thousands of dollars for a single full-page ad. • A website is another good form of advertising, but again people have to find your site amongst billions of others. Creation of the website will be a one-time expense, but you may need to pay to keep it updated. • Advertising isn’t a guarantee – there is a whole industry devoted to understanding and harnessing the market to your advantage based on past statistics. Marketing Agencies charge huge amounts of money, and may end up telling you little more than what you would have surmised out of common sense. Taxes

• Any bar you ask will agree that insurance costs are murder. Each year, small bars pay in the thousands, larger clubs pay in the tens of thousands. The majority of insurance companies demand the full amount up-front even before you open, and then yearly after that.

• Property taxes can easily run you for the cost of a month’s rent.

• To serve drinks you will need to buy an initial stock of cups, shot glasses, martini glasses, shakers, straws, pouring stoppers, and more.

• Hope you have a good accountant that has been keeping your book in order. Otherwise it’s your time and sweat to get everything submitted in time.

• Your bathrooms will need to have soap, toilet paper, and maybe paper towels if there are no hand driers.

Now, if you are even still reading up to this point, there may be a lot of factors that you had not considered. The costs are endless, so a $4.75 bottle of beer may only make $0.25 profit or less.

• Glassware and plates break and chip, plastics wear down from use and washing, and cutlery can get damaged or just disappear. These things need to be frequently replenished and replaced. • You will regularly need to replenish your stock of consumables such as pop, juice, beer and liquor, food and ingredients, and even lemon and lime slices.

• Don’t forget about income tax, GST, and employee remittance.

The sad part is that this article did not even go into much detail – there are enough intricacies to easily make a book – or several books, such as the handbooks provided by the AGLC and the Health Region. How good are you at following instructions, because there are lots – and they are the law.

• Things deteriorate over time. Machinery may break down, pipes may burst, circuits may blow, and your fire detectors may malfunction. Be prepared to pay for experts to come out and resolve these problems.

So if you have ever pressured your rambunctious buddies to step up to the plate, would you have done so knowing the amount of grief it could cause them? Maybe they really do have the expertise and motivation to get into this unforgiving industry. But my question is: are you asking for a new bar because there’s not enough room for you now, or because you are unwilling to get past your excuses for not going out to the existing ones that do have room?

• Paint chips, carpets fester with gum and spilled drinks, walls and surfaces get dented and damaged, mirrors and glass gets broken. Be prepared to pay money if you want to keep your establishment from looking run down.

It is human nature not to be satisfied with what we have, but as the saying goes, “a bird in the hand is worth two in the bush.” (In gay-man-talk that would be “a cock in the hand is worth two in the tush.”)

Spot Checks – don’t forget that AGLC, the Health Department, and the Fire Department will perform spot checks at the worst moments possible. Going over your fire capacity is a minimum $15,000 fine. Serving alcohol after last call, leaving liquor circulating after 3am, and the presence of minors will also result in a large fine for your bar, and the staff member(s) that caused the infraction. Fines get more severe the more you incur them, to the point of shutting down your bar or revoking your licences.

If anything, gay Calgarians should be giving the Backlot, The Calgary Eagle, Money Pennies, Texas Lounge and Twisted a big pat on the back for getting through these ordeals, as should gay Edmontonians do the same to Boots, Buddys, Prism, The Roost, and Woodys. Enjoy them while they’re here, because not one of them will last forever.

Advertising – you need to get people into your establishment to spend money. Advertising makes people aware of your existence, and notifies them of upcoming events.

A special thank-you to our existing Calgary and Edmonton gay bars for sharing the ins and outs of their business with us, specifically for this article, and as we have lived vicariously through them over the years.

• You will need to buy equipment, chemicals, and even pay for labour to keep your establishment clean.

You’ll get your new bars in due time, so what’s the big rush?

gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #41, March 2007

The Producers

Mel Brooks Musical coming to Calgary By Jason Clevett Broadway Across Canada brings its latest touring production to Calgary, from March 27th to April 1st, 2007. The Producers is coming to the Jubilee Auditorium, bringing the multiple Tony award winning show to Calgary for the first time. The Producers was originally a film in 1968 that was adapted to a play by Mel Brooks in 2001. The Broadway production and subsequent film starred Nathan Lane as Max Bialystock and Matthew Broderick as Leo Bloom. Bialystock is a Broadway producer who discovers through accountant Bloom that under the right circumstances, a producer could actually make more money with a flop than he can with a hit. The IRS isn’t interested in a show that flopped, so a producer could raise a million dollars, put on a $100,000 flop and keep the rest. Max proposes the ultimate scheme: Find the worst play ever written, hire the worst director in town, raise two million dollars, hire the worst actors in New York, open on Broadway and close out with their millions. They proceed with their scheme, finding a script for “Springtime for Hitler, A Gay Romp with Adolf and Eva at Berchtesgaden” written by Franz Liebkind, and seek out flamboyant Roger De Bris, the worst director in New York. Things do not go as planned with hysterical results. “It actually has gone that way towards being a very gay show. It’s a blast,” openly gay cast member Adam Brown told GayCalgary while on a tour stop in Indiana. “The show itself, from the moment that we enter the De Bris household, it gets gayer and gayer as we go.” The touring production has been on the road since September after a month of rehearsals in Kitchener, Ontario. With stops like Fargo, North Dakota and El Paso, and Texas, we asked how audiences are reacting to the show in traditionally conservative areas. “You’d be surprised, for the most part people are fairly responsive and ok with the gay aspect. We have had a few houses where there have definitely been crickets or the audience has felt uncomfortable. People don’t realize it’s supposed to be funny and that it’s meant to be lighthearted and fun. For the most part audiences have responded to it very well and everybody has a really good time. We haven’t had a negative response yet.” The 21-year-old cute single actor is fresh out of college and enjoying the experience of his first national tour. It can be quite overwhelming to tour the country and live out of a suitcase but he’s embracing the opportunity. “I consider myself pretty lucky. It is hard living in New York and trying to make ends meet on top of auditioning. I was waiting tables for five months before I booked this tour. It is really easy to settle into a groove in New York and just do your job, and when you have a day off there might be an audition but you want to stay home and watch TV instead. When you keep making yourself go, it gets easier. I am fortunate being a guy and a dancer - it was easier for me.

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Preview | Theatre “I grew up in a nice midwestern family in Ohio. Living in New York was great but now living out of a suitcase in hotels and doing the same show for 130 performances thus far, definitely an eye-opener. By the end of my contract I will have done close to 300 shows. You learn what you need to do to make your money work for you while you are on the road, and grow up very fast. I look at my friends, who are still juniors in college, and I look at what I am doing, sometimes I feel like I am getting more out of this than they are out of school. It’s wonderful.” Brown plays a number of characters, including a houseboy. The first few nights walking on stage barely clothed was quite the experience. “I come down the stairs with no shirt on, nipple jewels and a belly gem with a big turban on my head. At first it was a little embarrassing and I was a little self-conscious, it made me go to the gym a bit. As time has gone by I am over it and it doesn’t matter anymore.” There isn’t as much time to play tourist on tour but Brown does plan on paying a visit to the Rockies. “When we were in Philadelphia people went and saw the liberty bell and went shopping, and all that kind of fun stuff. When it’s a show for only a couple of days there isn’t much time to do that, amidst doing laundry and everything else. It depends on how long we are in the city. I have not been to Alberta before but a good friend of mine is in Calgary. Ironically she is doing a tour of Joseph right now and won’t be there. I have heard the mountains are beautiful.” After the lights go up, the applause dies down and the audience departs, the cast is left to pack up and move on to the next city. Brown hopes to gain from The Producers experience, and continue on from there. So who knows, one day you could see him again in a major role and say “I saw that guy when he was shirtless in The Producers!” “Being on a tour makes you stay on your game and doesn’t leave a lot of time for goofing off. I have fun but I can’t get out of control. From this I really hope it goes up from here. Starting your first gig on a national tour is not a bad start at all. Hopefully I can get on some other tours or work regionally. My main goal is not to be working behind a desk, as long as I don’t have to put on a suit that isn’t a costume, that is my goal.” The Producers March 27th to April 1st, 2007 Jubilee Auditorium Tickets at Ticketmaster http://www.broadwayacrosscanada.com/ www.producersontour.com

Nunsense

Divine Musical is Habit-forming Review | Theatre

By Jason Clevett From the second when nuns start wandering through the audience saying “hi”, you get the immediate impression that Nunsense is different from many productions put on by Stage West. Featuring razor sharp humor, divine performances and audience interaction, Nunsense is a great way to kick off 2007 at Stage West! The original production opened in New York in 1985 and ran until 1994. Nunsense is the story of the surviving Little Sisters of Hoboken (a one-time missionary order that ran a leper colony on an island south of France), who discovered their cook, Sister Julia Child of God, accidentally killed the other fifty-two residents of the convent. It was her tainted vichyssoise soup that killed everyone instantly from botulism, and only these few escaped unharmed as they were off playing bingo with a group of Maryknolls. Upon discovering the disaster, Mother Superior Mary Regina (Susan Johnston Collins) had a vision in which she was told to start a greeting card company to raise funds for the burials. The greeting cards were an enormous success and, thinking there was plenty of money, the Reverend Mother bought a flat screen TV for the convent, leaving her with no money to pay for the last four burials. With the remaining deceased nuns on ice in the deep freeze, they decide to stage a variety show in the Mount Saint Helen’s School auditorium to raise the necessary funds. Joining Regina are her second-incommand Sister Mary Hubert (Cheryl Mullings); Sister Robert Anne (Dawn Bergstrom), a streetwise nun from Brooklyn; Sister Mary Leo (Heidi Ford), a novice who is determined to be the world’s first nun-ballerina; and whacky Sister Mary Amnesia (Kristin Galer), who lost her memory when a crucifix fell on her head. The show exploits every pun possible – penguin walks, a nun puppet named “Sister Mary Annette” and references to many aspects of the Catholic church that had the crowd roaring with laughter. The strongest parts of the show include Mother Superior getting high on RUSH poppers and stumbling around the stage making bad Nun puns, a series of Nun impressions by Sister Robert Anne and a hysterical cooking segment. (“Oh look! A recipe for Boy Scouts! First get twelve brownies reaalll hot…”)

handles the sarcasm and tongue-in-cheek nature well, but also brings their own individual talents that add to the production. Bergstrom and Galer have outstanding voices and can belt out their numbers with goose-bump inducing effect, and Ford adds grace to the stage with light ballet dance scenes. You don’t have to be Catholic to appreciate the show, as the humor is universal. Still, it doesn’t hurt to have the upbringing, as many of the subtle jokes will jog a memory for those who were raised under the Catholic Church. During intermission I heard several people comment ”they are certainly different than the Nuns I grew up with.” I am sure many wished that these zany sisters had in fact been their guides during their youth. The show has been updated with more current references (for example, in the original Mother Superior bought a VCR – quite the expense in 1985) but the heart of Dan Goggin’s original piece still shines through. Nunsense spawned five sequels and I’d certainly be interested in seeing these children of God return to the stage for another go…or two. What better way to celebrate Christmas this year then with Nuncrackers? Nunsense – A musical comedy February 15th – April 22nd, 2007 www.stagewestcalgary.com

The interactive experience also adds to the enjoyment of the show. Audience members are quizzed and brought on stage to help out. I even got in on the act as Sister Mary Leo walked by looking stunning and I said “Damn baby, you’re fine! Do all the nuns in your convent look like you?” I now have to do seven Hail Mary’s to repent. During the actual show I managed to answer Sister Amnesia’s question about why the Nuns left the leper colony, and was rewarded with a bright red frisbee stamped “come fly with the lord” which I will cherish always. Nunsense is a risky show in that, with the wrong talent it could bomb horribly. Fortunatly director Di Nyland Proctor put together a cast that not only

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Calgary Cares 2007 PULSE – the Rhythm of Life By Arthur McComish If you missed out on the extravagance of 2005’s Calgary Cares, it’s ok because that time has come again! On March 23rd you can join the many Calgarians who will get dressed to the nines with the sole purpose of helping the AIDS Calgary Awareness Association continue its indispensable work in the city. The award winning Calgary Cares event not only gathers the best talent to put on one of the most entertaining evenings of the year, it also sets the bar for philanthropic endeavors in Calgary. The theme of Calgary Cares 2007 is PULSE – the rhythm of life that connects us all. This year’s event will again take place at the Jack Singer Concert Hall where, those in attendance can expect to find the very best from the worlds of fashion, music, and spoken word. In addition to the show, there will also be a silent auction including: Three exciting trips, courtesy of Leisure Life Vacations – Shoreham Green, Jamacia; Cristalmar Resort and Beach Club, Isla Mujeres, Mexico; and a weekend getaway for two at Kimberly Ridge. Four fabulous fur coats, courtesy of Renfrew Furs, are also up for auction in addition to original artwork from Calgary artists ranging in size, style and medium. Susan Cress, executive director of the AIDS Calgary Awareness Association notes that, “One of the most powerful things about Calgary Cares is the diverse range of people at the event. From young people coming out, to established GLBT people, to politicians and oil executives, it is truly a unique event in Calgary. Rarely is there such an opportunity for people to get behind the leading issue of our time, HIV/AIDS. This is an environment where you get the sense that Calgary does indeed care,” Cress continues, “We make use of the diverse range of talent available in Calgary, who all donate their time, to produce our signature event.” The ambition and enthusiasm on which Calgary Cares is built is the very same foundation that has helped the AIDS Calgary Awareness Association to sustain itself as a nonprofit organization in Calgary for the last twenty-four years. For the GLBT community, AIDS Calgary is an especially valuable resource. Two current projects that AIDS Calgary is spearheading, due in part to funding from events like Calgary Cares, are the HEAT and Youth XChange programs. HIV Education and Awareness Today (HEAT) - is a program designed to address HIV/STI education, awareness and prevention. HEAT engages the MSM (men who have sex with men) community by providing specific education in support of HIV/STI prevention and health promotion – through outreach, development workshops and online. Youth XChange is a program aimed at high-risk, street-involved youth. This outreach, support and education program targets youth agencies youth events and youth on the street. Workers and 36

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Community | Spotlight volunteers visit the streets and speak with youth about HIV and AIDS, sharing prevention messages and connecting them to the resources they need for safety, food and shelter. So lend your support to the community – buy your tickets for Calgary Cares 2007! AIDS Calgary Presents Calgary Cares 2007 Friday, March 23rd at 7:00pm Epcor Centre’s Jack Singer Concert Hall 205 – 8th Avenue SE Tickets: (403) 508-2500 www.calgarycares.ca AIDS Calgary www.aidscalgary.org

Woodys Pub

A Friendly Place in the Gaybourhood Review |Business

By Jason Clevett Since the Spring of 2002, Woodys has been a popular watering hole for Edmonton’s gay community. With longer hours than most clubs and a laid back atmosphere, Woodys has become a kind of gay “Cheers” for its patrons. The establishment is owned by Jim Brown, also the owner of Buddys Nite Club two floors below it. Woodys was born out of the evolution of its downstairs neighbour. “Buddys had moved in 2000, making the transition from pub to successful nightclub,” said bar manager Dan Lof. “In doing so, however, some of the neighbourhood pub feel was missing, including [the idea of] looking down onto the street. Obviously taking the second storey of the building and opening Woodys was the logical next step. Created to be reminiscent of the ‘old Buddys’ but with all-new flair, we have strived to be Edmonton’s best and friendliest gaybourhood pub. …The clientele is as broad as the community is, professionals to tradesmen, bears to queens, we all meet on common ground. During the day you’ll definitely find a 30+ crowd, but later in the evening the crowd is more mixed. People need a safe, friendly, casual environment in which to meet. There is still a need for gay businesses so that the community always has somewhere to go, that they can be completely comfortable in.” The bar opens at noon daily, with happy hour specials and an opportunity to mingle outside of the usual late night hours. In addition they feature a light menu and an assortment of events throughout the week. “We have a variety of snack foods available including hot dogs, smokies, taquitos, nachos, chips, etc. We have three great pool tables and have free entry tournaments every Saturday at 4pm and Sunday at 7pm. We also have a Walmac pool team that host teams from other bars every other week. The friendly staff and safe atmosphere we offer is something few other businesses can boast, and the view outside and the neighbourhood atmosphere keep our friends coming back.” One of the most popular staples at Woodys is their Karaoke. They offer it four nights a week, and everyone from semi-pros to William Hungs are welcome to belt out their favorite songs, by diva or by rocker.

extended happy hour, it is easy to meet new people without the pressure of the late night club. With the windows and the giant rainbow flag, we are often the first place that visitors and new comers in Edmonton come to.” Like most gay businesses, Woodys is also heavily involved in the community. ”We have held functions for a myriad of charities including the Court, the John M Kerr Scholarship fund, Pride Squad, and more We will always continue to support our community.” Woodys continues to evolve and grow with Edmonton’s gay community. The future remains bright for the bar, and you can be sure Woodys will be around for many years to come. “In the beginning, Woodys only had windows facing the street, which changed into the opening windows that offer the great feeling of the summer outdoors and the second floor view to cruise - uh - watch the world go by. Part of our appeal has always been the good people, great prices, and friendly staff. I think the old adage is true, ‘the more things change the more they stay the same’. The gay community is always changing, growing; but one thing that remains constant is our desire to cater to it. As comfortable as some gay people may be in ’straight’ bars nowadays, we know that we offer acceptance, not just tolerance, and it shows in the many regulars who have a second place to call home.” Woody’s 11725 Jasper Avenue Edmonton, AB (780) 488-6557

“Karaoke is as popular as it has ever been, drawing in people of all ages and backgrounds. There are quite a few really good singers that croon, belt, or rock us out, but it is about fun, and anyone can sing their heart out. If you’re having fun singing then chances are the audience is having fun with you.” While Woodys and Buddys have a lot in common, each business strives to be its own separate entity. “Although both have the same owner, are in the same building, and share some customers; they are separate. Woodys offers a more relaxed atmosphere, more conversational, and we offer of course Karaoke. Being open during the afternoon with gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #41, March 2007

Fundraising Photos Photos by Steve Polyak and Rob Diaz Marino of GayCalgary.com Magazine

Sharp Foundation Fundraiser at Money Pennies - Calgary

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Sharp Foundation Fundraiser Dinner at Gypsy - Calgary

Femme Fatale Fundraiser at Twisted Element - Calgary

ISCCA Karaoke Fundraiser at Texas Lounge

ISCCA Drag Show at Money Pennies - Calgary

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ARGRA Dance - Calgary

gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #41, March 2007

Diversity Gender Bender at Mount Royal College - Calgary

Edmonton Vocal Minority Concert and Womynspace Dance

ISCWR Drag Shows at the Roost - Edmonton

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Calgarians Networking Club How Do You Meet People In This Community? By Stephen Lock Perhaps you are just coming out and want some sort of alternative to the bars and clubs, or you’ve recently moved to Calgary and don’t really know anyone, or you have been kicking around the community for a while but just want to round out your social life a bit more…what do you do?

Community | Spotlight guest speaker talking for about 10 or 15 minutes at 6:30, followed by a Question and Answer period. And then, depending on how long that lasts, some more social time and the evening wraps up at about 7pm,” said Faulkner. The current membership is at about 40 people, with an average of between 15 and 20 showing up any given evening.

Calgary’s GLBTQ community has any number of recreational and social organizations, but most of them are targeted at one specific area, be it sports, rodeo, drag, campus activity, etc.

“It’s a good mix, actually,” said Faulkner. “We have members ranging from university students to retirees and everyone in between. We have realtors, architects, oil and gas types, credit counselors, even a couple of clergy.”

Calgarians Networking Club has been resurrected by pastpresident, James Faulkner, and is now operating under the auspices of the Gay and Lesbian Community Services Association (GLCSA, soon to be known as OutLink).

The group hopes to attract more women as the ratio at the moment is tilted in favour of the men.

“CNC folded a few years back,” said Faulkner. “But I still get approached by people wondering if it is still active and there was clearly a need for a group like CNC.” Faulkner was interested in starting it up again to meet that need, but wasn’t interested in running it again so he approached Tamrin Hildebrandt, Executive Director of GLCSA. “There was this misconception in the community that the old CNC was a businessperson’s network,” he said. While the current CNC, like the old organization, does have several business types involved, the premise is broader-based than that,” he added. “The group is about social interaction, about meeting people on a social level. It’s very casual and we encourage people to mix at our monthly meeting and talk to people they don’t know. People have a tendency stick to talking to those they know, understandably, so we try and create an atmosphere that is conducive to mixing.”

“We do have a couple of women members who have been involved since the start. Sure enough, the one week they don’t show up, a couple of more women will and wonder where all the women are,” chuckled Faulkner. “But everyone gets along really well. It’s a very casual and comfortable atmosphere.” It was decided to move the group under the auspices of GLCSA for several reasons: GLCSA already had the infrastructure in place to manage such a group, having already coordinated several different groups ranging from queer youth, to TG/TS support, to coming out groups. “We wanted to show the community that GLCSA is not just there for those in crisis or in need of support,” said Hildebrandt. “GLCSA is very involved in community and offers, or could offer, so much more than crisis intervention and support, as important as those are.” The group has a pro-rated membership fee of $25 per season. It also puts out a newsletter.

“It’s not a dating service,” he is quick to point out. “Although if you meet someone you kinda like, that’s cool.”

“The season membership actually saves you about a 35% reduction in cost,” says Faulkner, and includes getting the newsletter, free admission to the monthly social and food. Drinks are through a cash bar.

The group meets the first Thursday of each month from 5pm-7pm at Money Pennies (1742 – 10 Ave SW).

Come out, meet new people, and see what else the CNC has to offer you.

“There is a $5 drop-in fee for non-members and that money goes directly to GLCSA to pay for the food. And what’s left over goes towards various GLCSA programs,” said Tamrin Hildebrandt.

The Calgarians Networking Club Ccontact GLCSA at (403) 234-8973 cnc@nucleus.com

The group brings in various speakers each month to talk about their respective organizations, some of the issues affecting the community, or other items of interest to the membership. “So far we have had Tamrin talk about GLCSA, Gary Courtney to talk about the upcoming OutGames, a lawyer in to talk about equal marriage benefits, and an architect talking about personally designed homes,” Faulkner said. “We have bit of a mixer to start off the evening, with our 42

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Paragraph 175

Presented by the U of C Development Studies Club By Andrew Barry

Community | Spotlight

The University of Calgary Development Studies Club is an organization aimed at raising awareness of international development issues. It is made-up of dedicated students from different disciplines and vocations. In the 2006-2007 academic year it has organized several events that have addressed a wide variety of issues including corruption and fair trade. On Wednesday March 28th, 2007 it will address homophobia.

After the screening of Paragraph 175 the Development Studies Club will host a discussion of homophobia in Calgary. A guest speaker will define homophobia and apply it to the local environment. As well, representatives of the University of Calgary programs that address homosexuality will be available to discuss their activities.

The Development Studies Club presents Paragraph 175 a documentary about Nazi persecution of homosexuals. It is directed and produced by R. Epstein and J. Friedman and narrated by Rupert Everett. It has won 14 awards including the Sundance Film Festival Documentary Jury Award for Directing.

This event, sponsored by Twisted Element and GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine, is scheduled for 6:30-9:30pm on Wednesday March 28, 2007. It will take place in Science Theatres 145 at the University of Calgary. This event will be open to the public and admission will be free.

The documentary’s website observes that, “The Nazi persecution of homosexuals may be the last untold story of the Third Reich. Paragraph 175 fills a crucial gap in the historical record, and reveals the lasting consequences of this hidden chapter of 20th century history, as told through personal stories of men and women who lived through it: the half Jewish gay resistance fighter who spent the war helping refugees in Berlin; the Jewish lesbian who escaped to England with the help of a woman she had a crush on; the German Christian photographer who was arrested and imprisoned for homosexuality, then joined the army on his release because he ‘wanted to be with men’; the French Alsatian teenager who watched as his lover was tortured and murdered in the camps.

Paragraph 175 March 28, 2007 6:30-9:30pm Science Theatre 145, University of Calgary www.ucalgary.ca/~dsc

Department of History, University of Calgary, will introduce Paragraph 175 and facilitate a discussion afterwards.

“These are stories of survivors -- sometimes bitter, but just as often filled with irony and humor; tortured by their memories, yet infused with a powerful will to endure. Their moving testimonies, rendered with evocative images of their lives and times, tell a haunting, compelling story of human resilience in the face of unspeakable cruelty. Intimate in its portrayals, sweeping in its implications, Paragraph 175 raises provocative questions about memory, history, and identity.” Guest Speaker, Dr. Annette F. Timm, Assistant Professor,

gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #41, March 2007

Carole Pope

Anti-Diva Still Trades Rough By Jason Clevett

Gay Icon | Spotlight

Carole Pope, a Canadian, is the former lead singer of the band Rough Trade. In the 1970’s and 1980’s the bands provocative blend of hard-edged New Wave rock with explicit homoerotic and BDSMthemed lyrics made her one of the first openly lesbian pop stars in the world. Pope recently sat down with GayCalgary & Edmonton magazine to talk about being out in entertainment, life after Rough Trade and music today. “I’ve been pursuing a solo career since Rough Trade split up. I’m still making music, my latest album I have out is called Transcend,” Pope said from her home in California where she has resided since 1989. Rough Trade’s 1983 release Weapons has just been digitally remastered and reissued. The band’s biggest hit was the song High School Confidential off their 1980 Avoid Freud album. The controversial lesbian themed song made the group into stars. They continued to push the envelope with sexual and political themes, both in their music and their live performances, which often featured Pope in bondage gear. “There really wasn’t much of a backlash because there was such a hunger for something different. We found an audience that flocked to us. Most bands that played in bars played top 40 stuff. We were doing very sexual and political stuff but we had a tongue and cheek sense of humor about it,” she said. “I really didn’t give a fuck, and Rough Trade did it for the joy of making music and were surprised at our success. I was kind of a voice because we were dealing with sexuality, politics and sexual ambiguity. There was such a market for that and a strong androgynous scary chick that people related to.” It seems even today it is hard for anyone in the entertainment industry to be out. It truly was groundbreaking for Pope to have success almost three decades ago as an openly gay performer. “The thing about Rough Trade and me is we were ahead of our time and that was a bit of a drag. I don’t think people really give a flying fuck about sexuality right now. There are so many out bands; lesbo bands are all trendy. It is pretty sad how media pushes sexuality. I assume most people don’t care I give them the benefit of the doubt, and it’s the media that tears these things up.” It is because of this influence that Rough Trade will be

inducted into the Indie Music Hall of Fame in Toronto on March 7th as part of Canadian Music Week. Pope will also be performing. “They finally figured out that we were innovative and we are going to be inducted. It is very flattering and validates us as a groundbreaking band.” High School Confidential found new life and a new fanbase for Pope when it was featured in the show and on the soundtrack of the Showtime & Showcase series Queer as Folk. “It is so funny because I have a myspace [page] and these 15-year-old gay boys want to be my friend and it is because of that song. I have songs featured on The L Word as well. The producer of the soundtrack album approached me and they asked me to redo it. I am not crazy about house music I must admit, but the track worked.” Pope was proud to see the song find an audience again as many of those who heard the original version weren’t even aware of what it was about. “The straighties didn’t get it, that is for sure. They were just like ‘ohh I like that song its about High School!’ Gay people on the other hand go ‘I came out to that song!’ ...It is very gratifying.” Pope also released her autobiography Anti-Diva in 2000. “It is the story of my life, Rough Trade and the Canadian music and arts scene. I talk about losing my brother to AIDS and being on the road, a lot of stuff that people really seem to relate to. People have no idea what an amazing scene the music scene in Canada was, everybody was supportive of each

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other. In the 70’s and 80’s it was such a great time, we got too do tons of drugs and whore around and then AIDS happened and it was a giant disaster. So many of my friends died and I think there is still a backlash creatively. I am really not impressed with a lot of what’s going on because it’s all rehashed. We have lost so many creative amazing people because of AIDS.” The conversation took a serious tone when Pope opened up on the loss of her brother Howard to AIDS in 1996. The pain is still evident in her voice as she discussed his death. “He was allergic to all his meds and felt guilty because he was still alive and all of his friends were dead. He was an amazing man and musician and much more clever then me. It was horrible. Because he was my younger brother it was like losing a brother and a kid, it was devastating.” Having seen firsthand in her brother and many friends the effect of the disease, Pope sent a heartfelt message to the current generation of the Gay community, some of whom aren’t taking the disease as seriously in light of current medical advances that make the disease seem manageable. “That is so insane! What if you are allergic to the meds? It’s stupid just put on a fucking condom! If some of these people who are having unsafe sex every actually saw someone die of AIDS they would be practicing safe sex. I have had so many friends die, they started dropping like flies when it first started and it was called ‘the gay plague.’ There was one really close friend of mine who was sick in New York and no one would touch him. The doctors treated him like he was contaminated and radioactive. I had to hold him because nobody would touch him. He got dementia and it was just horrific. You would hear someone was sick and they would be dead a week later. You would go to call the person and they would be dead. I don’t know about these kids, it’s really stupid. I’d just like to pound people over the head, you know?”

“It is this weird cult of celebrity and no talent people that are rammed down your throat. Especially in America, you talk about the dumbing down of America and that is what is going on. Someone like Paris Hilton is just a piece of trash. The first time I saw her at a party for Soiuxsie Soiux, there was Debbie Harry (of Blondie) and Nina Hagen and Liz Phair. Paris started yakking on her cell phone and Soiuxsie goes ‘Who the hell is that’ and tells her to shut up. I loved that.” Carole Pope is an artist that has seen it all: changes in the music industry, changes in the world, and changes in the LGBT community. She frequently appears at Pride events and continues to be an active part of the GLBT community. Her final words were of support, and the never ending fight for equality. “Be strong and be political and vigilant, don’t take anything for granted and watch out for those damn straighties. Most of them are ok but the Prime Minister isn’t exactly pro gay. How the hell did that happen?” http://www.carolepope.com http://www.myspace.com/carolepope

On a lighter note, Pope’s music has gone through several different formats. From Vinyl to tapes to CD’s to the current age of downloading and webspace. “I still love vinyl because it sounds better than anything. I like myspace and having a website, because people from all over the world can find you and buy your music. Yeah! Thank god for iTunes. Especially as an independent artist, the industry is completely screwed up and people don’t believe in developing bands anymore. Someone gets a record deal and if they don’t have an immediate hit they are out. It is just sad because it shouldn’t be like that, artists should be nurtured and allowed to grow. So yay for the internet, even though there is a lot of bad stuff to pick through.” It’s an entirely different world in music today with so many female artists selling their body above music.

gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #41, March 2007

The Transsexual Trajectory: What Happens After Diagnosis?

Queer Quest

By Kevin Alderson, Ph.D., R. Psych. As I mentioned in an earlier column concerning adolescent transsexuality, the term transsexual entered our vocabulary in the 1950s. Transsexualism became a diagnosis in the American manual of mental disorders (DSM), third-edition, in 1980, and this term was later changed in DSM-IV (1994) to gender identity disorder (GID). [1] Although there are many types of individuals who cross-dress, what distinguishes the transsexual person is cross-gender identity [1] – that is, people who want to live their lives fully in the opposite gender. Some writers [1] have suggested that by viewing gender (i.e., a cultural or social construction of what is considered masculine or feminine) and biological sex (male or female) as only having two distinct categories, we haven’t provided room for those who experience qualities, traits, or sexual characteristics of both. Although some transsexual individuals may find ways to adapt by creating their own third category of gender (transgender), most transsexual people desire sex reassignment surgery. [1] Although the actual percentages of how frequently transsexuals are found in the population remains largely unknown, cross-cultural research (U.S. and the Netherlands) suggests that the ratio of transsexual men to women remains at approximately 3:1. [1] In considering whether there are different types of transsexual individuals, the most obvious demarcation is between those who are male-to-female (MtF) and those who are female-to-male (FtM). This difference is highly significant because of their varying trajectories. Besides this, however, other researchers have created other typologies. For example, transsexual individuals can be divided into the groups of primary and secondary. The primary groups are aware of their internal cross-gender identities from a young age and are not conflicted by their feelings, whereas the secondary groups felt much internal discomfort regarding their crossgendered feelings and consequently failed to integrate these into their personalities. [1] Another typology is based on whether the individual is attracted to members of their same biologic sex, to members of the opposite biologic sex, or both. More favourable psychological outcomes and social adjustment have been reported with transsexual individuals who are attracted to members of their same biologic sex, [1] meaning that they following sex reassignment so that they are viewed by others as “heterosexual.” As it turns out, most FtMs are attracted to women, just as most MtFs are attracted to men. This should not be surprising given that most individuals in the world have a heterosexual orientation. An interesting finding is that sometimes the sexual orientation of MtFs with primary interest in women will change to having an interest in men. [1] The reasons for this shift are not clearly understood presently. Once an individual has been assessed as being transsexual, various options are available. For some, learning to live in the world as a transgendered person is possible and preferable without pursuing physical changes. For others, medical interventions are indicated. The first step here is usually about evaluating whether the person is a candidate for cross-sex hormone therapy. The administration of hormones has predictable effects on the body. For the MtF, estrogen and testosterone blockers soften the

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skin and create breast growth, loss of muscle, and redistribution of body fat. Although hair loss is stopped, lost head hair does not grow back. The voice does not rise, fertility and testicular size diminish, and erections become less frequent and less firm. The physical changes noted above occur gradually. The MtF notices changes in mood, sex drive, and attitude much sooner. FtMs treated with testosterone experience a deepening of their voice, enlargement of the clitoris, increased facial and body hair growth, male pattern baldness, and limited breast reduction. These changes are permanent. Other changes are reversible, including increased muscularity, weight gain, decreased hip fat, and increased sex drive and arousability. [1, 2] Cross-sex hormone therapy has varying medical risks for biologic males and females alike, and they are not prescribed to everyone who requests them for this reason. The effect of these hormones needs to be medically monitored. Either before, during, or after hormone therapy, the transsexual individual may decide to live full-time in their cross-sex role, known by some as the real-life test. For those wanting to later pursue sex reassignment surgery, this is a requirement. Although the duration of this is generally about 12 months, in Alberta currently, the 12-month period officially begins once the person has been assessed by an authorized psychiatrist. Unfortunately, there is presently only one psychiatrist in Alberta (residing in Edmonton) who is authorized, resulting in a “bottleneck” of care for individuals waiting to be assessed. By proceeding in the above manner, the cost of sex reassignment surgery (once approved by the authorized psychiatrist and a second psychiatrist) is covered by Alberta Health Care. Many studies have shown sex reassignment to be effective for all types of transsexuals, [1] so the wait is generally considered worth it. Furthermore, most transsexual individuals report good sexual functioning following sex reassignment surgery. [1, 2] Surgeries that are considered “cosmetic” are not covered by Alberta Health Care, however, so many transsexual individuals end up spending considerable amounts of their own money in order to “pass” better and/or to enhance their appearance. Some post-operative MtFs decide not to tell their sexual partners that they are biologic males. Presumably these are individuals that pass very well as biologic females. Nevertheless, experts recommend disclosure to partners and to family members alike, [1] generally resulting in positive outcomes. The transsexual journey does not follow an easy path, and the bumps along the way can be excruciatingly treacherous and painful. All of us, however, need to follow a path that helps us develop and embrace self-acceptance and integrity. No one can ignore their own reflection indefinitely.

Dr. Alderson is an assistant professor of counselling psychology at the University of Calgary who specializes in gay and lesbian studies. He also maintains a private practice. He can be contacted by confidential email at alderson@ucalgary.ca, or by confidential voice mail at (403) 605-5234. References: 1) Harry Benjamin International Gender Dysphoria Association. (2001). Standards of care for gender identity disorders (6th ed.). Retrieved November 25, 2005 from http:// www.hbigda.org/Documents2/sosv6.pdf 2) Docter, R. F., & Prince, V. (1997).Transvestism: A survey of 1032 cross-dressers. Archives of Sexual Behavior, 26(6), 589-605. 3) Denny, D. (2004).Changing models of transsexualism. Journal of Gay & Lesbian Psychotherapy, 8(1-2), 25-40. 4) Ibid. 5) Seil, D. (2004).The diagnosis and treatment of transgendered patients. Journal of Gay & Lesbian Psychotherapy, 8(1-2), 99-116. 6) Ibid. 7) Smith, Y. L. S., van Goozen, S. H. M., Kuiper, A. J., & Cohen-Kettenis, P. T. (2005). Transsexual subtypes: Clinical and theoretical significance. Psychiatry Research, 137(3), 151-160. 8) Lawrence, A. A. (2005). Sexuality before and after male-to-female sex reassignment surgery. Archives of Sexual Behavior, 34(2), 147-166. 9) Seil (2004). 10) Harry Benjamin International Gender Dysphoria Association. (2001). 11) Denny (2004). 12) De Cuypere et al. (2005). 13) Lawrence (2005). 14) De Cuypere, G., Tâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Sjoen, G., Beerten, R., Selvaggi, G., De Sutter, P., Hoebeke, P., Monstrey, S., Vansteenwegen, A., & Rubens, R. (2005). Sexual and physical health after sex reassignment surgery. Archives of Sexual Behavior, 34(6), 679-690. 15) Zamboni, B. D. (2006). Therapeutic considerations in working with the family, friends, and partners of transgendered individuals. Family Journal: Counseling and Therapy for Couples and Families, 14(2), 174-179.

gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #41, March 2007

The Vagina Monologues By Allison Brodowski

Marsha Ellen Meidow’s first reading of the book “The Vagina Monologues” by Eve Ensler, left her with mixed feelings about those being represented. More in-depth investigation however, proved that the story’s heart lay with the women discussing their fears and joys about their sexuality, empowerment and sense of self. Marsha was hooked. Upon returning the book to the friend who had insisted she read it, Marsha found her self pulled in to her first performance of the play at the University of Western Toronto. “I loved the book, just loved it, and the play reinforced that. The women’s stories are made more powerful in the play,” said Miedow. The re-creation of this work is embodied in live performances, which usually consist of 20 pieces where, between 15 and 17 of them come from women in the community who auditioned to be part of the project. The idea to use real women is a fascinating part of the event that allows Marsha the privilege of seeing women grow into themselves and find their own confidence. ”Often picking the shyest, most terrified women who grace the auditions, is part of the job. This is a means to gift them with the opportunity to straighten their backs, look up into the faces of the audience and find that strong women who they have always wanted to be. That keeps me coming back year after year. It’s so inspiring, and incredible to see.” Having performed the play for two years at the University of Western Toronto, two years at the University of Calgary, and now finding space at Max Bell Theater in the Epcore Center; Marsha, and her partner in non-crime, producer of the show Shone Abet, have had their fill of fighting to bring the Vagina Monologues to audiences over the years. “There was a dispute with postering at the universities because they were uncomfortable with the word ‘vagina’, which was shocking but almost typical on second thought. The over all message was ’you shouldn’t really waste your time, people probably won’t come’. It made me want to do it all the more,” said Miedow. Selling out the last two years here in Calgary has earned her much well deserved respect in the community, and given her the opportunity to focus on what the whole performance is really about. Lending willing hands to this year’s performance is Canadian artist Kinnie Starr who will be performing a piece entitled “Crooked Braid”. Also performing is Sheri D. Wilson with an original piece, ”Conversations with a Cunt”. The performers have always welcomed men to their performances and the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. “Men are very welcome to come, [it is] not just a fight for women. Strong men who want to fight with us may feel

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Community | Spotlight intimidated, but this can be a good starting point. We welcome everyone with open arms.” This performance has a secondary significance this year for the organizers. They are trying to raise $30,000 for the YWCA safe haven program, which deals with the issues surrounding teenage prostitution in our city, and those at risk of prostitution. This is an issue that the organizers are very close to; some of them work with these youth daily. “This is about breaking the silence, giving face to the statistics and numbers. Seeing them up there is difficult. Society would rather that they remain invisible, like ghosts. You don’t have to deal with a ghost because it’s already dead.” The performance of the Vagina Monologues is something for a community of people to affect the human spirit, to break down barriers and allow us to communicate. If you never see these women on stage again in your daily lives, you still will have shared something in this performance space unlike anything else you may experience in your life. “Looking out one year from back stage, during the cunt piece, I saw an 80 year old women roaring and screaming ‘Cunt ! CUNT!’ along with the audience so happy and proud. She has probably never been given the opportunity to do that in her life. That is why I love it.” The Vagina Monologues March 28th – 31st at 8:00pm Max Bell Theatre, Epcore Center Tickets available through Ticket Master www.ticketmaster.ca (403) 777-0000

gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #41, March 2007

Celebrity Bigotry Who Are The Role Models Now? By Stephen Lock

In the last couple of months we have had two celebrities publicly comment about gay folk. In the one instance, much was made of Isaiah Washington’s comment about T.R. Knight, his co-star on Grey’s Anatomy, being “a faggot.” Washington, obviously not missing an opportunity for even more publicity, went public with his apology (good thing). He made a big deal about going into “sensitivity training” and about how he could no longer deny to himself he had “issues.” “I obviously need to examine [those issues] within my own soul, and I’ve asked for help,” he said. Maybe it’s just me, but the going-into-therapy schtick came off as…well…cynical and along the lines of some cokeaddled celebrity going into rehab, with everyone remarking how brave and honest and wonderful that is. Is there rehab for bigots? If Washington, who is African-American, was incapable of understanding “faggot” is analogous to the ‘N-word’ one has to wonder where he has been for the last couple of decades. Regardless of what one might feel about gay men, lesbians, bisexuals or transfolk – and one can believe whatever one wants – to actually publicly state such sentiments is beyond the pale. Almost immediately following Washington’s comments and his public display of whatever it was he thought he was displaying (I seriously doubt it was shame; a lifetime of bigotry and plain old-fashioned thoughtlessness is not so easily overcome), ex-NBA player, Tim Hardaway, in response to the recent coming out of former NBA star John Amaechi, stated he was homophobic. He said that he didn’t like gay people at all (hated us, in fact), and would not want a gay man on his team. Hardaway is also African-American.

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Politics In Washington’s case he let “faggot” slip out following a disagreement with T.R. Knight on the set and it probably would have passed relatively unnoticed except, one of his other co-stars spoke to the media about it at the Golden Globes Awards. Of course, it shouldn’t have passed unnoticed any more than if T.R. Knight had tossed off the ‘N-word’ to Washington because he was pissed off at him, but we all know it probably would have if one of the cast members hadn’t made a big deal of it. The other bright light in this sordid little soap opera is that Patrick Dempsey, another actor on Grey’s Anatomy, confronted Washington on his homophobia resulting, so it’s been reported, in ‘fisticuffs’ between him and Washington. In Hardaway’s case, however, the scenario was quite different. While a guest on Sports Talk 790 The Ticket the host, Dan Le Batard, asked Hardaway how he would interact with a gay teammate. He was met with this response: “First of all, I wouldn’t want him on my team. And second of all, if he was on my team, I would, you know, really distance myself from him because, uh, I don’t think that is right. I don’t think he should be in the lockerroom while we are in the locker-room.” When a shocked Le Batard pointed out the comments were ‘’flatly homophobic’’ and ‘’bigotry,’’ Hardaway kept right on going. “You know, I hate gay people, so I let it be known. I don’t like gay people and I don’t like to be around gay people,” he said.

“I’m homophobic. I don’t like it. It [homosexuality] shouldn’t be in the world or in the United States.” As if that wasn’t bad enough, Hardaway also said that if he did find out a teammate was gay, he would ask for the player to be removed from the team. “Something has to give. If you have 12 other ball players in your locker-room that’s upset [sic] and can’t concentrate and always worried about him in the locker-room or on the court or whatever, it’s going to be hard for your teammates to win and accept him as a teammate.” Lovely. And this is someone who is held up to youth as a person to emulate? Gimme a freakin’ break…. A few days later, Hardaway was banished by the NBA from an all-star weekend in Las Vegas and publicly denounced by NBA Commissioner, David Stern. The NBA brings in many former players to take part in various all-star events during the Las Vegas weekend. Hardaway had already represented the league that week at a Habitat for Humanity event and a fitness promotion. He was also scheduled to be an assistant coach at a wheelchair game Thursday night and later appear at the fan-oriented Jam Session until Stern told him he was no longer welcome. Hardaway also lost a major endorsement. Apparently such fall-out was enough to make Hardaway try and do some damage control. He spoke again to media from behind the gate of his multi-million dollar home (did anyone notice the bars of the gate were PINK?) saying how sorry he was that he said anything, how sorry he was for the pain he caused his family, teammates and fans, that he had had a really hard week, that he was stressed out and suffering from lack of sleep. Uh-huh. Notice he didn’t apologize for the bigotry he exhibited, just for exhibiting it. Nah, you’re just a garden variety bigot, pal. Go cry me a river…. What is it with these celebrities and their overwhelming sense of entitlement? What, they figure they can say whatever they want and everyone will just let it slide? Talk about hubris. If we don’t accept bigotry from the right wing why would we accept it from individuals who, we are told, are “role models”? Some actor on some TV show and some ex-basketball jock are role models? For who? And why? If they actually did some good, like put their celebrity status and money to some use other than purchasing ostentatious mansions and more bling, then they would deserve to be called role models. These two are not role models for anything other than ignorance, and the maxim my mother used to use: “Lots of dollars but no sense (cents).” They’re punks. Stephen Lock is a long time gay activist in Alberta. He is also the Secretary and Regional Co-Director (Prairies/NWT/Nunavut) of Egale Canada, the national equality seeking organization for lesbians, gays, bisexuals, transidentified people and our families. He is the producer and host of Speak Sebastian, a semi-monthly queer radio show broadcasting the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of each month at 9pm on CJSW FM 90.9, and a freelance writer. The views expressed are those of the author and do not reflect the views of Egale Canada, CJSW, or any other organization or publication unless specifically stated as such.

gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #41, March 2007

Under the Covers with Jann Arden Chatting with Calgary’s Favorite Daughter. continued from page 9

it. ‘Here I am inside a hotel, choking on a million words I’ve said.’ Then nothing. I know what the next line is but I didn’t have it. I stopped and this woman yelled ‘cigarettes have burned a hole.’ They just left it on TV. I was so glad I did it. It is hilarious that the audio caught her saying that. There was this smattering of applause when we started up again.” Being on the road and having fame take its toll. August covergirl Bif Naked spoke of the loneliness of rock n’ roll, so we asked Arden to share her own views. ”Bif isn’t the exception to the rule at all. What happens is you go through everybody in the band. That lasts through your twenties on the road, it’s disgusting and there is always alcohol involved. You have to live with them for the next six weeks. I know a lot of people who have had really successful relationships in the music business, I have to say from my own experience it’s the nut behind the wheel. I can’t sit and blame music for any of my relationship things. I’ve had wonderful relationships in my life and I’ve had some terrible ones. If I am going to be at all honest, I have to look at the common denominator in all of them and it’s me. It is not an easy thing to face, it just isn’t. I am not easy to be with. When you travel 250 days a year, do you want to be with someone who has

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to give up their job and be like a fungi on you when you travel around the world? They have nothing to do, what, are you going to have them sell merchandise? I don’t want to be with somebody like that. I think for some people if you are a librarian you are going to have unsuccessful relationships, it doesn’t matter if you’re a musician or not. Sometimes being with another musician or artist is a nightmare. My dad’s best friend just got married at 71 to my guitar player’s mother. You can still settle into something and it can happen at any age.” As a renowned storyteller, Arden also shared a story about her first time meeting Bif Naked, who she has developed a friendship with. “She is one of my favorite people, we’ve become really odd friends. The first time I met her was at the Juno’s in Newfoundland. I was walking down the hallway and was like ‘holy crap, that’s Bif Naked’ with the tattoos and she is such a pretty girl. She is not at all what people would perceive her as, she is very soft spoken and spiritual. We ended up presenting an award together. The stagehand, this fellow from Newfoundland, was all sweaty and nervous and trying to get everyone organized. The guy was telling us what to do and Bif goes ‘Have I fucked you?’ He was just perspiring and going ‘no!’ That was my introduction to Bif.” Arden is unique in the music industry in that she has avoided scandal and simply lets her music speak for itself. In a day and age of female artists bouncing in and out of

rehab and marriages, she stays true to a classic time. “I would love to do some Britney Spears covers. I think she is fascinating. When you talk about modern American sex kittens, she is just nutty. I am just so glad there isn’t a picture of my crotch on the internet, I can’t even tell you. I would be horrified for anybody to see my Scooby Doo underpants! “Girls these days, there is something so blatant about it. I grew up on the end of innuendo, allure, mystery. Now its ‘here’s my crotch, my boobs, me getting slammed on the side of a boat, you can get it on the world wide web.’ I find nothing sexy about any of this stuff. I like the idea of ‘I wonder what they are like’ - I don’t want to see them. I think that is really sad about our industry now. I don’t want to know, I want to guess, ponder, think up my own little things. You can’t tell me that Britney didn’t get out of that car on purpose seeing fifteen photographers on the sidewalk. But they want it, that kind of attention and energy. I couldn’t live with myself, I am a really private person. But I am not, which is the conflict with me because my music is an open book and all you have to do is listen to know exactly who I am and what I am about. “If you ever see my crotch anywhere please call me. ‘Jann, you know when you were drunk at the Dairy Queen… with the cone? We need $100,000 or its going on YouTube.” As our time came to a regrettable close, Arden asked to say a few words specifically to her GLBT fanbase, one that has supported her since the beginning of her career. “You guys are the most well educated, lovely people in the world and I am flattered. Any iconic female figure that has had lasting success from Bette Midler to Cher in the past fifty years is because of the gay population. They have more money than anybody else, are better educated and they support people to the end of the world. It is amazing to me the fans and the loyalty that I have, and success because of the gay community. It is overwhelming to me. Every time out, never making judgments of me or asking more of me then I am unable to deal. I feel very, very blessed. I have made some wonderful friendships and I feel very honored to be part of something that’s so fantastic. I hope it never stops, that people keep supporting me. I hope the world gets more tolerant and people change and I hope I hope I hope. “A magazine like GayCalgary & Edmonton is a great start, to have a voice and to be really proud of your community. I am very glad to be talking to you today.” Jann Arden on Tour Jubilee Auditorium in Edmonton May 7th & 8th Enmax Centre in Lethbridge May 9th The Centrium in Red Deer May 10th The Jack Singer Concert Hall in Calgary May 17th & 18th Pick up Uncover Me in stores today. www.jannarden.com

gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #41, March 2007

Supreme Court Of Canada Turns A Blind Eye To Discrimi-

gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #41, March 2007

nation And Censorship, Says Egale (January 19, 2007)

gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #41, March 2007

Lily Tomlin Gay Icon comes to Calgary continued from page 13

their opinion they just have to take the consequences. But when people have any kind of awareness it is hard to even fathom why someone is motivated to say that, or that negativity is in them. “I will still get people saying ‘why doesn’t so and so come out?’ I have never felt that anybody should be coerced or pressured to come out because you never know what somebody’s situation is. The really big deal is that so many regular people in their regular lives, not in the limelight, became aware and stronger and they have enough support.” Having been part of the community for over thirty years, Tomlin has seen a great deal of change and evolution in the world. “We have done awfully well. This is how bad it was thirty years ago, I remember when I was on Carson in 1973 and Johnny said ‘You don’t have any children do you?’ and I said ‘No.’ He said ‘don’t you want to have any children?’ For a female entertainer to say no she didn’t want to have children would make her like the wicked witch of the west. The audience was galvanized you could hear a pin drop. I said ‘No, I don’t want to have children but I love them. Who has custody of yours?’ because of course he didn’t.” While it may seem like a non-issue today, in 1973 it was a huge statement. “Just the idea of a female who might not want to have or raise children was a very divisive issue. Great strides have been made in our community in terms of some of the rights. We are a long shot from where we should be, it shouldn’t even be an issue. But I am grateful for the things that have transpired. There is a younger generation of gay people that can be much more free and open. There was a time when it was considered a disease, finally through different people’s efforts, it has been taken off the psychological association’s list of disorders and diseases. People used to have to really hide just to be together or to socialize. A lot of stuff has happened for gay people and for women, but not enough. With this Bush administration in [my] country, it has been a real threat and a step backwards and we don’t know what these people will do at any time. The fact that people stay strong and continue to speak out and be brave and are themselves is a pretty fabulous thing. All of the really good things that have happened by, through and for us makes me gratified and proud.” Tomlin referred to her own home of Los Angeles as a sign of changing times. “The gay community has created places where people could congregate, and where they can get support and medical and social and housing help. Here in LA we have the Gay and Lesbian Services Center, which is an incredible institution. Jane and I, through a major donor, named a small theatre after us. …I can remember when the center first opened in the 1970’s it was in a little tiny building. Now it’s a multi-story building that really provides incredible services and support for the community. We have the village with 150 – 200 productions per year, all sorts of 56

gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #41, March 2007

support groups that meet there, computer training, you can get all kinds of things there. Especially in Hollywood the kids on the street with no resources or support can come to the center and get housing and food and help with employment and schooling. That didn’t exist before.” Tomlin pointed to the parallels between the feminist and the gay movements with their timeline and how they have made a better life for so many people. “There were no shelters for abused women or children until the late 1970’s. A lot of people worked to change all of that, and woke a lot of people up. Just to fight through it and stand up through the criticism and the ridicule, and fundraise and do all kind of things just to create something better for the people who should have a better avenue, for our own community and the feminist community. I identified as a female before I identified as a lesbian,” she said, concluding, “It is remarkable, even with the threat of this kind of regime in our administration now, people are not intimidated and won’t back down. Even in heavy-duty states in the south and the west, people still fought and stood up and weren’t going to be intimidated back into a shadowy place. It’s courageous.” An Evening of Classic Lily Tomlin Saturday April 7, 2007 Jack Singer Concert Hall www.ticketmaster.ca www.lilytomlin.com .

gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #41, March 2007

Queer Eye - Calgary & Edmonton Community Events this Month

Photos by Steve Polyak and Rob Diaz-Marino of GayCalgary.com Magazine

Pool Tournament at Money Pennies - Calgary

gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #41, March 2007

Faunawolf Creations Launch at Jane Doe Marketplace - Calgary

5th Anniversary Party at The Calgary Eagle

gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #41, March 2007

Drag Shows at Buddys - Edmonton

gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #41, March 2007

Drag Shows at The Roost - Edmonton

Apollo Fire and Ice Dance - Calgary

Drag Shows at Twisted Element - Calgary

gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #41, March 2007

Team Edmonton Launch at Maverickâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #41, March 2007

Team Edmonton Wrap-up Party at Buddys

gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #41, March 2007

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gaycalgary and edmonton magazine #41, March 2007