GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine - October 2009

October 2009 ISSUE 72 The Only Magazine Dedicated to Alberta’s GLBT+ Community

FREE Alberta’s top ten

glbt figures Part 2

THe Price of our

Hard-Won Rights

The Police Service

Are GLBT Trust Issues Unfounded?

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

GLBT Resource • Calgary • Edmonton • Alberta

www.gaycalgary.com

GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine #72, October 2009

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

Photography

Publisher’s Column

8 A Visit to Folsom Street Fair 9 Apollo & Team Edmonton Curling “Chess on Ice” Returns for Another Season

11 The Police Service Are GLBT Trust Issues Unfounded?

13 Chelsea Boys 14 Out of Town

Palm Springs, California

Steve Polyak, Rob Diaz-Marino and Jason Clevett.

17 Directory and Events

Videography

Steve Polyak, Rob Diaz-Marino

23 Letters to the Editor

Printers

24 It’s About Pride...And Perspective

Distribution

26 Adult Film Review

North Hill News/Central Web Calgary:.........................Gallant Distribution . .....................................GayCalgary Staff Edmonton:......................Clark’s Distribution Other:........................................Canada Post

Legal Council

Courtney Aarbo, Barristers and Solicitors

Sales & General Inquiries

GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine 2136 17th Avenue SW Calgary, AB, Canada T2T 0G Office Hours:.............. By appointment ONLY Phone:................................. (403) 543-6960 Toll Free:............................ 1-888-543-6960 Fax:..................................... (403) 703-0685 E-Mail:.............magazine@gaycalgary.com

This Month's Cover

Photo taken by Eden Vaschon.

PAGE 8

Mercedes Allen, Chris Azzopardi, Dallas Barnes, Antonio Bavaro , Camper British, Dave Brousseau, Sam Casselman, Jason Clevett, Andrew Collins, James S.M. Demers, Rob Diaz-Marino, Jack Fertig, Glen Hanson, Joan Hilty, Evan Kayne, Boy David, Richard Labonte, Stephen Lock, Allan Neuwirth, Steven Petrow, Steve Polyak, Pam Rocker, Romeo San Vicente, Diane Silver, D’Anne Witkowski, Dan Woog, and the GLBT Community of Calgary, Edmonton, and Alberta.

Homowners

PAGE 11

Writers and Contributors

5

High Tops, Sounding #2

27 Q Scopes

“Make connections, Capricorn!”

28 Deep Inside Hollywood

Manilow takes Stipe and Hanks to the Copacabana

29 Cocktail Chatter

Farm-Fresh Cocktails and Gay Bars versus Great Cocktails

30 Gears and Queers

PAGE 14

Publisher:................................. Steve Polyak Editor:................................ Rob Diaz-Marino Graphic Design:................. Rob Diaz-Marino Sales:........................................ Steve Polyak

Good Life Bikes - Making Cycling More Accessible

31 Reaching OUT

Affirming Ministries of Calgary and Edmonton

Continued on Next Page 

Part 6B: Toward the Future (2007 - 2009)

34 Fundraising Photos www.gaycalgary.com

PAGE 28

32 A History of Gender Variance in Expression and Identity

Continued on Next Page 

GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine #72, October 2009

Table of Contents  Continued From Previous Page

Proud members of:

38 Queeries

The Great Oral Sex Dilemma: Swallow or Spit?

39 The OutField

Out and Under the Radar

PAGE 39

40 GLBT Housing

“A plan to take all that talk to the next level.”

41 Bitter Girl 42 A Couple of Guys

43 Alberta’s Top Ten GLBT Figures Part Two

Magazine

PAGE 43

45 The Leather Soul

Beat me like you hate me; hold me like you love me.

46 The Price of Our Hard-Won Rights

PAGE 55

Alberta:...................... ~300 Drop-off Points

History

55 Queer Eye - Community Events

Originally established in January 1992 as Men for Men BBS by MFM Communications.

Name changed to GayCalgary.com in 1998.

Independent company as of January 2004.

First edition of GayCalgary.com Magazine published November 2003. Name adjusted in November 2006 to GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine.

Disclaimer and Copyright

Opinions expressed in this magazine are specific to the author, and do not necessarily reflect those of GayCalgary staff and contributors.

November 2009 Print Deadlines

Please contact us immediately if you think you may have missed the booking or submission deadline.

Distribution Locations

52 Book Marks

Whitney Houston, A Fine Frenzy

In Circulation Thursday, November 4th, 2009

Proof of monthly figures can be requested.

Please call us if your establishment would like to become a distribution point.

54 Hear Me Out

Ad Submission Tuesday, November 2nd, 2009

Print Circulation:.................. ~10,000 copies Pickup Density:....................~3 readers/copy Online Circulation:........... ~125,000 readers Total Readership:............. ~155,000 readers Frequency:.................................Every Month

48 Classified Ads This One’s Going to Last Forever, Pop Salvation

Ad Booking Friday, October 30th, 2009

 Continued from Previous Page

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Editorial

Homowners Publisher’s Column

By Rob Diaz-Marino, MSc. Some really big things have been happening for us over the past two months, and while we’ve not been shy talking about it in person, we’ve kept it quiet on an official level up until now. In August we committed to making a big change in our lives, but one that is certain to pay off in spades - we bought a house. It may sound like a big financial strain to take on, but after much research we were surprised to find it really made more sense for us than our current situation.

Until now we’ve been renting a condo in the downtown core. We managed to make it work for ourselves and our business, but it always felt very cramped and precarious. For one, it made for a completely unsightly living space, cluttered with magazines and our tools of the trade. We were often embarrassed to have people over for business meetings because there was simply no way to organize so much stuff into a single-level, albeit large suite. For a while we rented an office on the ground level of our building for meetings and to store archived and current magazines, but when the condo board proposed more than doubling the rent for it, we decided that the expense was just not worth the amount of use we actually got out of it (not to mention the crummy condition of the space).

At times it felt scary knowing that we didn’t have control over the place that we lived and worked in, and I’m discovering that in many ways it held us back. Having to undergo an unexpected move could have meant the end of us. Moving a high-speed internet connection and server farm takes months, especially when the slow-moving, corporate monster telecommunication companies are involved (even with months of advance warning, it was still a total nightmare). Letting down the numerous non-profit groups and paid clients whose websites we host was a big concern that hovered above the daily struggle to provide a reliable service in an unpredictable world. Thankfully, this move will give us peace of mind that we have a greater degree of stability and finally allow us to make long-term plans.

Selecting a realtor was a very difficult decision for us, since we have a number of excellent realtors advertising with us. In the end, we felt it was most fair to choose the one who had been advertising for the longest with us, which was Lorne Doucette. We looked at a handful of houses before we got an excited phone call early in the morning to come and see the one which was ultimately the best suited to us. We went forward with it, and took possession of the house in mid August.

hands are covered in minor cuts and scrapes; rough and parched from being washed so frequently, and doused in solvents to remove paints and oils. I got a huge blister in the centre of my right palm from screwing (har har). It prompted me to buy a proper electric drill/screw driver to spare the effort (and chafing) of the manual one.

Now we can finally arrange our lives in a way that makes sense for us and GayCalgary, and not have to worry about the approval of a landlord or condo board. It feels like moving out of my parent’s place all over again, or like graduating from school and realizing that the pressure of mid terms and final exams are a thing of the past. It’s the taste of independence and freedom.

Of course, like any change in life, the transition from old to new is the rockiest part. As of writing this column, moving has been a major challenge, especially near the end of the month while we also have a magazine to put together. As our landlord pointed out, moving is supposedly the third most stressful occurrence in life, after divorce and loss of employment. So as a result, this month’s press deadline has been…how should I say…a fair bit more insane than usual; trying to get started on writing articles and realizing that all the materials are at the other location, or for me, even trying to shave and realizing my razor and the shaving cream are not under the same roof. It’s been absolute bedlam, but thankfully a onetime affair leading to better things across the board.

Making this move has also prompted me to take another big step – finally getting a vehicle of my own on the road. In my younger days I stopped just short of my road test, wanting additional practice in a few areas that my ex-girlfriend had told me horror stories about. But that practice never came, and things got put off for so long that I lost touch with the experience I had gained to that point. Finally last month I made the effort to refresh my skills and completed my road test, got insurance for our vehicle that has been sitting in the basement of our condo building for nearly 2 years, and finally got on the road. Since Steve still doesn’t drive, I guess this makes me the chauffer (“show-fur”) for now, but I’m already on his case to follow suit. As healthy as walking everywhere has been for us, there are some tasks that are impractical, even impossible without a vehicle, plus it is a huge time saver. In our case this doesn’t mean we’re any less busy, just that we can get more done in the same amount of time.

So for the next month we’ll be getting settled in and figuring out our new routines, discovering what new affordances the house has for ourselves and our business. One I can already foresee is better accessibility – direct, street level access along 17th Avenue will be a major benefit in giving GayCalgary a solid physical presence in the community. We also have some other plans, which should be forthcoming over the next month.

So there is a reason why we’ve been somewhat scarce for the past month and a half - we have been putting much of our time and effort into some minor renovations that needed to be done before moving our furniture and possessions in. I swear we have been to Home Depot so frequently, it puts the Lesbian stereotype to shame! (That, or we’re already campaigning for the “Best Lesbian Couple” award at the next Dirty Birds.)

For computer guys, we’ve taken pretty well to doing this sort of work, in fact I personally find it a nice change of pace from the less tangible computer work that I’m used to. Somehow I’m proud to say that my

GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine #72, October 2009

Editorial September 2009 in Summary

Coming Up in October

Last month’s cover manifested some interesting reactions from people. While most agreed Peter was yummy, we quickly discovered that there are a couple readers out there with phobias, that couldn’t stomach the fact that we used a real snake! At first I found this a bit hard to understand, wondering why they couldn’t just think of Buffy as a plastic prop if it bothered them so much. But I suppose that a gory Halloween cover with fake blood might have set me off in the same way as seeing real blood.

With Pride shifting to September, October seems to be the new “dead month” that August once was…though perhaps not as dead as August used to be. Check our events listing starting on page 17 for more information, or browse our extensive online community events calendar at www.gaycalgary.com/events

Despite much contention, Pride was a resounding success this past month. For the dance at Belgo, the ticket sales estimate given to us that night was 650. Considering there was almost zero overhead cost, it meant that Pride Calgary Planning Committee was able to bank around $13,000 – money they were counting on to put on the parade and street festival the next day. Belgo received many compliments from attendees, both for the beauty of the multi-tiered venue, as well as the friendly and accepting staff.

Compared to the parades from the past two years which, from my perspective behind the video camera, went by in less than 10 minutes, this Parade was just about twice as long. An article on Xtra.ca revealed that many local businesses chose not to enter floats this year because of the prohibitive costs in the current recession; however some circumvented this by submitting walking entries instead. According to organizers, there was a total of 40 unique entries this year. And finally, NO RAIN! Money Pennies bounced back from an unfortunate mishap the weekend prior, just in time to fulfill their commitment managing the beer gardens at the street festival. Unlike previous years where Olympic Plaza tended to clear out by 3pm, both the beer garden and the dancing stage remained bustling until 6pm, when organizers had to tear down the set up. The crowd estimate given by the police was over 4000.

Of course, Pride is also a busy time for local businesses – something that many count on to survive. As a result there had been much concern from the business community about the change of date to September. We spoke to many of our advertisers who stood to benefit from the Pride celebrations, and the consensus seemed to be that their sales were on par with, if not better than, previous Prides held in June.

Many of those businesses who chose to stand back and observe Pride from the sidelines this year now know what they can expect from the new Pride Calgary Planning Committee, and can anticipate greater benefits by getting involved for next year.

On the other hand, we saw Pride-releated events from a number of businesses that have not typically participated in the past. On parade day, Beatniq hosted a SHARP Foundation fundraiser, while the Soda (venue for the monthly Fake Mustache drag king shows) put on a circuit party for Pride attendees, featuring gay and lesbian DJs from Calgary and Edmonton. Speaking of which, a special bus was organized to transport people from Edmonton to attend Calgary’s Pride, including staff members from a number of Edmonton’s gay bars and clubs. Goliaths held their first dance party, and although their license doesn’t allow them to sell liquor at the event (easily fixed by popping over to the Texas Lounge), it permitted some other unique things that a standard bar or club cannot do: a men-only environment where full nudity is permitted. Goliaths plans to make these events a monthly occurrence from now on.

The Rocky Horror Pride Show at the Plaza Theatre in Kensington had an astounding turnout – we showed up to find two line ups going quite a long way down the block. Needless to say, the theatre was sold out and many had to be turned away.

The 4th Annual Great Chili Cook-Off happened on the 20th, after the AIDS Walk for Life earlier in the day. This year 12 contestants put forth their best, spiciest, and most unique chili recipes to be judged by the SHARP Foundation, and to be shared with attendees for a nominal fee (benefitting SHARP). Because the Walk for Life occurred the same day in Edmonton, Steve knew he would have to miss the Cook-Off (one of his favorite annual events), so he subjected me to the task of gathering samples of all the chilies for him to try once he got home. As the event was shutting down, I paid my dues to take away a helping of the left over chili in Tupperware containers. So Steve got to try all of the chilies, and we had tasty dinners to last us for several days. Once again this year, the event raised about $1500 for the SHARP Foundation on behalf of Beswick House.

GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine #72, October 2009

Of particular note is the Backlot’s 13th Anniversary, which they are celebrating on October 21st. See their ad in this edition for more details.

Also, we have been informed that this month’s ARGRA dance has been cancelled to allow the new team of planners time to organize and implement changes for the November dance. Regardless, there are going to be some tough decisions to make on that date of October 24th, as it seems to be the day that EVERYONE decided to hold their dance events. For my fellow “show-furs”, the bi-monthly BEEF Bearbash Bar Night is happening at Boots in Edmonton. This is at the same time as the Womonspace AGM and Dance also in Edmonton, the GALA/LA Dance in Lethbridge, and a special Apollo dance in Calgary. Even a car won’t help us with this conundrum…better to have invested in a cloning machine!

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GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine #72, October 2009

Travel

A Visit to Folsom Street Fair

By Jason Clevett The words “Folsom Street Fair” may bring up a number of mental images: sex in the streets, people expressing themselves through kink and fetish wear, or completely naked men. While in many ways these are accurate statements, nothing can truly prepare a first timer for the experience of 400,000+ people celebrating their diversity.

Attendees to the 2009 event, held Sunday, September 27th, were a mix of gay and straight, young and old, men and women, attractive and... less so. Drawing fans from around the world as well as in San Francisco itself there truly was something for everyone and a feast for the eyes. For those that like their men masculine, there were ample beefy guys, many of whom wandered the streets shirtless, in shorts, or in leather.

There were certainly some standouts in the crowd. Shortly after arriving we saw a person with multiple butt plugs tied to themselves as a stegosaurus (or stego-sore-ass if you prefer.)

A man dressed as the joker strutted down the street with his penis hanging out freely, and he was far from the only one who was baring all. Sadly it seems though that many of the ones that left nothing to the imagination were ones that you really wished had. Others came out in full rubber gear or leather. If you had an open mind you certainly had a lot to look at just from attendees.

In some ways the street fair had a sense of familiarity - think Lilac Festival with 4x the people and all kinky stuff. It took quite a while to filter your way down the 15 blocks that made up the fair. Porn companies like Titan Media, Helix Studios, Kink.com and Pornteam.com were well represented, and had several stars on hand. Titan men had 2010 calendars available and being signed. There were several demonstrations throughout the day of whipping, flogging, bondage and wrestling. Those looking to spice up their love life had plenty of options from toys to gear to Utilikilts. Many non profit organizations were present, including AIDS Healthcare Foundation, the Centre for Sex & Culture, and P-Flag. Much of the money raised through donations at admission, and other fundraising, went to organizations that included AIDS Emergency Fund, the Pacific Center for Human Growth, the Queer Cultural Center and Tenderloin Health.

A number of things stood out for me personally. Kinkytots certainly caused a double take with their dolls dressed up in kink gear. I’ve seen puppy tail butt plugs in cata-

GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine #72, October 2009

logues, but the fair was the first time that I saw one used... and wagging. What stood out the most though was just the overwhelming sense of acceptance.

Sure there were probably people there solely to “look at the freaks” but overall the vibe from the day was that of being true to who you are, regardless of what your kinks may be. Coming from Alberta, which I doubt would ever have an event like this in my lifetime, it was refreshing to see and be a part of.

Whether it is fair time or not, a trip to San Francisco would not be complete without a visit to Mr. S Leather, located one block south of Folsom on 8th street. It seemed like the party was continuing in the store, which is packed over Folsom week. Even with a lot of people in the store, the staff were incredibly helpful and informative in offering assistance. While it is cause for a double take when you see someone drop their shorts to try on a cock ring in the middle of the store, it just adds to the free nature that is the basis for the fair.

If 7 hours of Folsom isn’t enough for you, there is lots going on after. While we went for dinner down the street, seated next to a fishnet covered master and his new slave, others hit some of the many after parties. After satisfying our need for food we headed to the Lonestar, a very popular bar on nearby Harrison street . While it was packed earlier, by the time we arrived the crowd had thinned out but was still jumping. San Francisco is an early town in many ways, and it seems the gay community is as well compared to other cities. There were lots of options from sex clubs to bear parties to official afterparties.

Regardless of your taste from vanilla to kink, if you go in with an open mind the Folsom Street Fair is a pretty awesome experience. I will definitely visit again in the future, and you should too!

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 Folsom Street Fair – www.folsomstreetevents. org, Mr. S Leather – www.mr-s-leather.com, Lonestar Saloon - www.lonestarsaloon.com

Sports

Apollo & Team Edmonton Curling “Chess on Ice” Returns for Another Season

By Sam Casselman On October 17th, Apollo Friends in Sport returns with its 19th season of curling. Meanwhile, on October 19th, Team Edmonton begins theirs. Both promise to bring fun, sportsmanship, and good friendship to Calgary in the winter months.

Apollo Friends in Sports was formed in 1981 by a group of individuals with an idea to form an athletic social group. “The idea was to fulfill the needs of interested people in the Calgary area with sports and social activities. Four people attended the first meeting,” says Randy Brookes, Communications Director of Apollo Calgary Curling. Currently Apollo has close to 400 members playing a myriad of sports year round.

Team Edmonton was formed in 2006 by representatives from many smaller GLBT sporting groups in Edmonton, to better serve the needs of the community. It is run by a volunteer elected Board.

Although Registration is closed for the 2009-2010 season, Apollo is currently seeking spares that are able to dedicate some time. Brookes encourages “curlers of all ages and experience levels” to come out and play. Participants can range from any age and can be either male or female.

There are two draws every Saturday, one at 2:20pm and the next at 4:30pm, taking place at the North Hill Curling Club (1201 2nd St NW). Even if you don’t want to participate in the sport, organizers still encourage people to come out and cheer the teams on. Each team consists of 4 to 5 players - if a player can’t make it, then this is where the spares come in.

As a spare, each player is required to pay $10 per game played. These fees cover the rink cost. Your Apollo membership fee of $20 covers your yearly Apollo membership and voting rights at the AGM. All equipment must be provided by you.

Team Edmonton registration costs $250, and each game is

played on Monday nights at the Granite Curling Club.

This curling season, Calgary will be the host of the Gay National Curling Championships which will be held during the Western Cup bonspiel on the Easter Weekend in 2010. There will be teams from all across Canada visiting our fine city, and will be competing in this event. The organizers are expecting a very large turnout, and are encouraging any teams that want to participate in Western Cup to register as soon as possible.

If you have never curled before, or are simply wanting to brush up on your skills Apollo will be hosting a Beginner and Intermediate Curling Clinic beginning on October 3rd, and will run on a monthly basis.

To register as a spare in Apollo Curling, or to register in any of the other sports teams that Apollo and Team Edmonton have to offer, visit the web links below.

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Apollo Friends in Sports

 www. apollocalgary.com Team Edmonton

 www.teamedmonton.ca

10

GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine #72, October 2009

Community Spotlight

The Police Service

Are GLBT Trust Issues Unfounded?

By Evan Kayne Historically, relations between the GBLT community and Law Enforcement services have not been friendly, as police were used by politicians to persecute a minority which (at the time) was not protected by human rights laws. While most police services in Canada have changed and are more open and responsive to the needs of the GBLT community, it’s understandable some people might think the police engage in profiling for gay men; these people might assert the police don’t care about gay bashing and might even make fun of “fags and dykes”.

Yet times have changed; like any modern service-based organization, the Calgary Police Service (CPS) is cognizant Calgary has become more cosmopolitan and open to people of different races, creeds, and sexual orientations.

Constable Lynn MacDonald has been a member of the Diversity Resources Unit for the past 2 years, and a member of the Service for 14 years. She told us the average CPS constable is exposed to training on how to effectively relate to the varied communities in Calgary. “Every officer that gets hired - while they are in recruit training - they all go through a series of diversity training.” There are 13 portfolios; including aboriginal, seniors, and GBLT communities, for example. Every community has a liaison officer, and as part of their class duties, recruits are given assignments to research various groups (demographics, population, concerns that community has with the police – e.g. some cultures may have trust issues with the police).

Within the GBLT component of diversity training, recruits research stereotypes and debunk them, they review crimes GBLT civilians face, and look at ways officers can be effective and sensitive to the community. Liaison officers will then discuss with the recruits past cases, areas where the service has done well and also things which could be done better (i.e. continuous improvement).

If you are unaware as to how the recruitment/selection process runs, you could suspect a few hours training might be inadequate for recruits who have a background that was not so diverse (e.g. small town, religious). Constable MacDonald reassured us an average recruit has gone through a six month process where he or she underwent a polygraph test, interviews, psychological testing, and background checks. She added “we’re not bringing on members that don’t have life experience already”. Furthermore, the CPS also has a full week diversity level II training for officers with more than 5 years experience on the force, making said training a continuous process for any peace officer.

uals; not just so they can be more effective in relating to the trans community, but also so the CPS can be sensitive to the needs of any officer who makes the decision to transition.

As well, besides keeping MacDonald busy being on virtually every board there is in our community (Fairy Tales, ARGRA, Apollo, PFLAG, and Pride to name a few) and networking with all community businesses, the CPS maintains a high profile at any GBLT events: “I set up a booth at all the functions…we had one at Pride, we had 3 vehicles in the Pride Parade this year, we had our mounted patrol, the chief spoke [at the Street Festival]…we are getting better at getting involved in the community.”

This is a no-brainer, since in today’s day and age, the CPS and our community overlap - there are several openly gay and lesbian police officers and the CPS has had same sex benefits since 1996.

180 kilometres north, it’s much the same with Edmonton’s Police service. For the past five years, Murray Billet has been one of Edmonton’s Police Commissioners. He’s gone to various recruit classes, and he can attest there are several high ranking openly gay officers on the force. Along with the diversity training, Edmonton’s Police service also sees officers regularly visiting the Pride Centre, full participation of the Police Service in the Pride parade, and recruitment officers attending various community events much like Calgary does.

Yet what happens if you encounter the police as a victim or a perpetrator, in a situation where your sexuality is clear to the officer (i.e. domestic dispute, or you’re in drag and get assaulted on the way to the bar)? The real test of the police force is how they treat our community in that vulnerable moment.

Both Edmonton and Calgary police services outline the same responsibilities for their force: the officer is to conduct him/ herself professionally, collect the evidence, process it correctly, and properly arrest whatever individual is indicated by that evidence. In fact, as Commissioner Billet discussed, even if a member of the Edmonton Police Service arrests you, you are still entitled to be treated with respect – for instance, officers can’t be calling you a “fag” as they cart you away. You can be found guilty of the crime you were arrested for, but the officer

Moreover, the engagement process with the GBLT community includes the Calgary police chief’s advisory board – 15 members who work to do education plans (most recently a campaign about gay bashing). Recent presentations for the CPS included a visiting police officer from the United Kingdom who is transsexual. Her presentation on the challenges an officer would face while transitioning prompted the CPS to consider rewriting their policies and offer education to their members on transsex-

GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine #72, October 2009

11

Community Spotlight can face an investigation if it was found he was disrespectful, rude or homophobic. As for the Calgary Police Service, they take charges of homophobia against any officer seriously and will investigate. If you feel legitimately that your sexuality played into the behaviour of the officer – regardless of any criminal charges – you can still make a formal complaint.

What’s more, if you legitimately believe an officer did not behave professionally but think “the Thin Blue Line” will prevent other officers from investigating your complaint, Constable MacDonald can attest from her own experience working in the Professional Standards Section (often known as “Internal Affairs”) that this is not the case. Additionally, it is not solely police officers overseeing the CPS – much like in Edmonton, the Calgary Police Commission is the next level above the PSS and is made up of civilians. With her experience in PSS, MacDonald knows the officers there want a police force that is reputable; so the PSS will make officers on the force accountable. “The bottom line is that the service has a good reputation, great members working for it, and they want to keep that reputation because it makes our job easier working with the public. So people who say we’re just protecting our own, there’s nothing to support that.”

Besides having worked in the PSS, Constable MacDonald can confirm the legitimacy of their investigation processes as she was once subject to a PSS investigation. She confirms it is a stressful situation even if you know you are innocent (as in her case it was with an illegitimate complaint by a citizen against her). “We expect everyone else to be innocent until proven guilty, but we’ve got to be careful not to crucify every officer” where there is a question of a potential lapse of professional standards.

Without downplaying legitimate concerns, MacDonald admitted complaints do come in because people don’t understand how things work – as an example she described one safety related policy: for every one person, there are two officers. Consequently, if there is some kind of dispute involving four people, the CPS will send out eight officers. This may look like the police are raiding a crack house, but on the officers side, they don’t know if one or all four people could turn violent. They have policy manuals thicker than the Yellow Pages, so people need to understand if there is a situation (e.g. an arrest, a raid or some kind of investigation) there ultimately is some reason for it. Part of MacDonald’s job is to educate people on the CPS’s policies.

Expanding on that, while Constable MacDonald is proud to be part of a police service which speaks to and networks with our community, she does want to let us know it has got to be a two way street. When the police reach out to the community, or when a gay man or a lesbian needs to use the services of

the police, it must be understood that there is a human being underneath the uniform. Sometimes a crime victim who is a member of the GBLT community will recount a less than pleasant encounter with a peace officer. This could happen where the constable was a bit brusque or not as sensitive as they would have liked. Constable MacDonald noted we should be aware you may be speaking, for instance, to someone who is at the end of their shift and who has earlier dealt with a suicide, a traffic fatality, and a domestic assault. Sometimes it does happen – an officer shuts down a bit from mental and emotional exhaustion. “As officers, we can be sensitive” MacDonald said, “…but as far as emotionally attached to calls, it’s hard for us to do that. That would take everything out of us for every call we go to…” The officer has to go into a situation with some sensitivity and professionalism, but ultimately they have a job to do – to investigate a crime which has happened. You may not want to discuss the officer’s behaviour at the time, but do follow up after the fact – either an informal or formal complaint, as outlined below.

It all adds up to the realisation that this is not your father’s police force, knowing the CPS and the EPS are responsive to complaints and suggestions for growth, and the comprehension you are dealing with a human (and therefore, sometimes imperfect) organisation. MacDonald noted “...the majority of police officers…are good police officers and obviously we’ll have some less talented officers as you will in any company,” yet the CPS is open to investigating complaints (and passing along commendations).

Finally, in the event you do feel that you have a legitimate complaint, know it will not fall on deaf ears. Obviously, whether you are a victim or a perpetrator, you should be respectful of the officer at the time of contact, but make note of the who, what, when, where and how of your encounter. Investigations can be either informal or formal. There are three options: Supervisor intervention, mediation, or a formal investigation. As Edmonton’s Commissioner Billet put it, “any time you get lousy service from a police officer for any reason, document it, get a badge or reg[istration] number, and take it to his superior officer, email the chief and commission and engage the process.”

While an informal complaint may be sufficient to resolve any issues, if you have to take it a level further, know that both the Calgary and Edmonton Police Services are required by the Police Act to investigate all formal public complaints.

On the other hand, if you have had an experience with the Edmonton on Calgary Police Services or any of its members that you feel is worthy of compliment, you should ALSO let them know they were appreciated for their work in our community.

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Calgary Police Service Professional Standards Section  (403) 206-5904

 www.calgarypolice.ca/about-compliments_complaints.html Edmonton Police Service Professional Standards Intake Investigations Section  (780) 421-2676

 www.edmontonpolice.ca/EPS%20External/ Home/ContactEPS/Concerns.aspx 12

GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine #72, October 2009

GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine #72, October 2009

13

Out of Town Palm Springs, California

By Andrew Collins

Few places in the world can claim the sheer quantity of gayfriendly accommodations that Palm Springs does - you’ll find resorts, most of them clothing-optional and male-oriented, set throughout town. In recent years, many Palm Springs properties have undergone extensive and impressive, upgrades.

Even better news for visitors interested in staying at a gayfriendly but not necessarily gay-exclusive property: a slew of historic boutique hotels and mainstream resorts have been given retro-chic makeovers, and many of these stylish pads have begun actively jockeying for a slice of the LGBT tourism pie. Several new spots have opened here, too. If you love Palm Springs, but you’re not so much a fan of clothing-optional, single-gender accommodations, you’ve got plenty of great gayfriendly choices.

Now for the tricky part: with so many great choices, it can be challenging deciding where to stay. With that in mind, here’s a cheat sheet detailing a good variety of the city’s best gay-exclusive and gay-friendly accommodations.

Getting Your Spa On… A couple of gay resorts in town have impressive, full-service spas among their amenities. The already quite successful men’s getaway, La Dolce Vita, opened a small, high-quality spa in 2009 - here you can book any number of enticing treatments, including deep-hydration facials (definitely helpful in arid Palm Springs) and seaweed-infused body wraps. This friendly 20room resort with two pools and airy, smartly furnished rooms is set along a quiet residential street yet just a short walk from several great restaurants.

The plush East Canyon Resort, which caters mostly to gay men but also welcomes women (it’s not clothing-optional) became the first gay resort in town to open a full-service spa - complete with facials, massage, body treatments, and shiatsu.

Since it opened several years ago, it’s been one of the most talked-about gay getaways in the West. This lushly landscaped Spanish Colonial complex has large, handsome rooms with Sony stereos with MP3 inputs, DVDs, large flat-screen TVs, topquality linens, and earthy desert tones.

Some Gay Guy’s Faves

Rooms and patios at the ultra-hip Ace Hotel & Swim Club, one of the newest gay-friendly properties in Palm Springs.

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GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine #72, October 2009

It’s sometimes tough to distinguish the many properties in the Warm Sands neighborhood, home to about a dozen gay resorts. Hacienda Warm Sands deserves consideration for being the best of them all. In-room accents, depending on the suite, include Saltillo-tile floors, Asian rugs, teak and bamboo furniture, double showers, and custom kitchens with high-end appliances. Rates include some of the most lavish breakfasts and lunches of any resort in town. One of the friskier men’s resorts, nearby Inndulge has 24 rooms and draws a lively, sexually open bunch (the 12-man hot tub is very popular). The staff is fun-loving, accommodations are spacious and bright, and the pool is one of the best in town.

A stellar choice in the San Lorenzo area, a few blocks south, is Santiago, whose 24 large rooms (furnished with contempo-

Travel rary light-wood furniture and VCR-DVD-CD players) overlook a huge rectangular pool - there’s also a 12-man sauna. Another reliable spot along the same street is Chestnutz, which has been going strong for nearly 15 years. This laid-back spot with a loyal repeat clientele has a nice variety of rooms, some with full kitchens and private patios. The owners are highly knowledgeable about area dining and nightlife, and the extensive grounds carefully maintained.

Friendly and enthusiastic owners operate over Terrazzo guest house, and they’ve made plenty of notable upgrades over the years. This is a laid-back place with Southwestern-inspired decor, and the staff works hard to make guests feel pampered - a full complement of breakfast, lunch, and snack foods is included. The only slight drawback is a bit of noise from the busy road outside. Another men’s spot that’s been gaining in popularity in recent years, in part thanks to the hard work of its efficient and friendly owners, is the Spanish-style Warm Sands Villas, which lies right in the heart of the neighborhood for which its named.

The 27 attractively refurbished rooms have beautiful stonework, and some larger units have kitchens and fireplaces.

Cozier Men’s Properties An intimate, relative newcomer to Palm Springs, the handsomely furnished and well-priced Casa Ocotillo is a terrific little gem. The artfully restored 1930s hacienda has just six suites and bungalows, each with distinctive, individually furnished rooms. Offering a luxurious, romantic vibe with reasonable rates, this secluded yet centrally located getaway has such handy amenities as a fully stocked guest kitchen, a small but attractive pool, and even some pet-friendly rooms.

Another terrific spot that’s also notable because it dates to the 1950s and ranks among the city’s most distinctive examples of mid-century modern architecture, Triangle Inn has fun, helpful hosts and attracts a similarly easygoing and friendly clientele. In addition to eight beautifully furnished suites (some with full kitchens), there’s a four-bedroom house - a nice option for groups of friends planning a vacation together. Furnished with striking mid-century modern furniture done in bold, elegant colors, the Century Palms Springs is close to the cluster of very social resorts in the Warm Sands area, but it’s a relatively quiet and private space. There’s a beautiful patio affording great views of the mountains, and rooms have such thoughtful touches as LATHER-brand bath amenities and flat-panel TVs with DVD players.

Where the Women Are The majority of lesbians who vacation in Palm Springs choose a mainstream hotel, but the town does have a pair of superb women-oriented resorts. Upscale Casitas Laquita is a hip and attractive complex of Spanish Mission-inspired casitas - many with kiva-style fireplaces and all with full kitchens. The grounds are absolutely gorgeous, with an on-site barbecue and a small basement library-lounge where guests sometimes mingle. Inroom spa treatments are available. Queen of Hearts is also a real stunner, and it’s a great value year-round. Again, Southwestern-style decor predominates, and rooms have tile floors, VCRs, hair dryers, fine linens, and sumptuous furnishings; several have kitchens. The grounds are bright and striking, with orange trees, strings of white lights, and a pretty pool that’s bikini-top-optional.

Swank Mainstream Resorts The talk of the town in 2009 among fans of posh resorts was the re-opening of the Palm Springs Riviera Resort & Spa, a smashingly stylish - some might say over-the-top - property that has undergone a spectacular transformation. Set across 24 acres and with several wings of dramatically decorated rooms and suites set around two large and scene-y pools, the Riviera

draws plenty of bon vivants with its fabulous SpaTerre, which offers a full slate of Indonesian- and Thai-style treatments, and the hip Circa 59 Restaurant, which serves first-rate contemporary American food. The centrally located Renaissance Palm Springs, slated to open early in 2010, is actually an elegant refurbishment of the former Wyndham Palm Springs (which remains open as a Wyndham until this time). This venerable property has been host of many gay parties in Palm Springs, but it’s been much in need of the makeover it will be receiving from Marriott Hotels, of which the Renaissance brand is a part.

Stylish Boutique Hotels A whimsical and ultra-hip newcomer is the gay-popular Ace Hotel & Swim Club, part of a Portland, Oregon-based brand of offbeat lodgings. This distinctive property has all sorts of cool attributes, including spa and an expansive pool and sundeck (the Swim Club) and a funny restaurant (King’s Highway) and bar (the Amigo Room), where scenesters mingle over tasty modern-diner fare and groovy cocktails. Indeed, this youthful, social resort has been well-received by 20- and 30-somethings.

The retro rooms are a trip, each with old-school turntables and vintage LPs from the ‘60s and ‘70s, low-slung beds, and honor bars stocked with plenty of top-shelf booze and unusual snacks.

Close to the gay nightlife along Arenas Road, the posh Hotel Zoso is another notable design-minded property, its luxurious rooms done with such contemporary items as Herman Miller desk chairs, Bodum coffee presses, and Aveda bath products.

Guests can nosh on tasty food in the mod restaurant, Eatz, and or sip wine in the jazzy lounge, Z Bar. The Viceroy Hotel is Palm Springs’ chicest small hotel, a favorite of celebs (Barry Manilow often stops by the chichi white-on-white bar-restaurant, Citron). Many of the 70 units have full kitchens and hot tubs. It’s the kind of place that revels in its shag carpeting and retro-glamorous appearance. Orbit In comprises two funky properties, the Hideaway and the Oasis, both of which contain curvaceous, low-slung furnishings, many of them created by interior design legends of the 1940s through ‘60s. Guests can order facials, wraps, and massage treatments from the extensive spa menu.

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Andrew Collins covers gay travel for the New York Times-owned website About. com and is the author of Fodor’s Gay Guide to the USA.

The Little Black Book

 Ace Hotel & Swim Club (760-325-9910, www.acehotel.com/ palmsprings). Casa Ocotillo (800-996-4108, www.casaocotillo.com).

Casitas Laquita (760-416-9999, www.casitaslaquita.com). Century Palm Springs (800-475-5188, www.centurypalmsprings.com). Chestnutz (800-621-6973, www.chestnutz.com). East Canyon Hotel & Spa (877-324-6835, www.eastcanyonps.com). Hacienda at Warm Sands (800-359-2007, www.thehacienda.com). Hotel Zoso (760-325-9676, www.hotelzoso.com). Inndulge (800-833-5675, www.pridenation. com/inndulge). La Dolce Vita Resort & Spa (877-644-4111, www.ladolcevitaresort.com). Orbit In (www.orbitin.com). Palm Springs Bureau of Tourism (760-778-8415 or 800-927-7256, www.palm-springs.org).

Palm Springs Riviera Resort & Spa (866-588-8311, www.psriviera. com). Queen of Hearts (888-275-9903, www.queenofheartsps.com).

Renaissance Palm Springs (formerly Wyndham Palm Springs) (760322-6000, www.marriott.com). Santiago Resort (800-710-7729, www. santiagoresort.com). Terrazzo (866-837-7996, www.terrazzo-ps.com).

Triangle Inn (800-732-7555, www.triangle-inn.com). Viceroy (800237-3687, www.viceroypalmsprings.com). Warm Sands Villas (800357-5695, www.warmsandsvillas.com).

GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine #72, October 2009

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GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine #72, October 2009

Directory and Events Legend O ur Magazine Available Here---------------- ✰ Wheelchair Accessible Venue------------------

CALGARY Accommodations

4 Calgary Eagle Inc.---------------------- ✰  424a - 8th Ave SE  (403) 263-5847  http://www.calgaryeagle.com  Open Wed-Sun, 5pm-close Leather/Denim/Fetish bar.

9 MPs (Money Pennies)------------------ ✰

 1742 - 10th Ave SW  (403) 263-7411  http://www.money-pennies.com  Closed Mondays.

• Wrestling/Fight Gear Night  Sat Oct 3rd

5 Texas Lounge------------------------------ ✰

 308 - 17 Ave SW  (403) 229-0911  http://www.goliaths.ca  Open 7 days a week, 11am-close

• From Sirs WIth Lust  Sat Oct 10th Leather demonstrations - Silent Auction.

13 Westways Guest House------------------- ✰

 216 - 25th Avenue SW  (403) 229-1758  1-866-846-7038  westways@shaw.ca  www.gaywestways.com

• Skaryoke Fundraiser  Sat Oct 31st, 8pm

• Blue Collar Fetish Weekend  Oct 16th-17th

33 Twisted Element

 1006 - 11th Ave SW  (403) 802-0230

 http://www.twistedelement.ca

• Pre-Hallows Eve Ball Buster Party  Fri Oct 30th

Wingate by Wyndham

 400 Midpark Way SE  (403) 514-0099  www.wingatehotels.com

Dance Club and Lounge.

• Halloween Party  Sat Oct 31st

Bars and Clubs

Bathhouses/Saunas

Club Paradiso

 1413 - 9th Ave SE, upstairs  (403) 265-5739  www.villagecantina.ca Carly’s Angels Sat., Classic movie Thurs, and no cover, Live Sinatra tribute Fri.

3 Backlot---------------------------------- ✰

 209 - 10th Ave SW  (403) 265-5211  Open 7 days a week, 4pm-close

• 13th Anniversary Party  Wed Oct 21st, 7pm

6 Goliath’s----------------------------------- ✰

 308 - 17 Ave SW  (403) 229-0911  http://www.goliaths.ca  Open 7 days a week, 24 hours a day

55 Marquee Room---------------------------- ✰

 612 - 8th Avenue SW  http://www.marqueeroom.com

• Halloween Party  Sat Oct 31st

Bar and restaurant.

• Haunted House Flashlight Party  Sat Oct 31st, 6pm-6am Private Men’s Club, Membership required.

Community Groups 2 Aids Calgary---------------------------  110, 1603 10th Avenue SW  (403) 508-2500  info@aidscalgary.org  http://www.aidscalgary.org

• GLBT-A Conference

 Fort Calgary (806 - 9th Ave SE)  Oct 23rd, 8:30am-5pm 5pm-7pm Reception • Volunteer Activity Nights

 AIDS Calgary Training Room  403-508-2500, ext.116  volunteer@aidscalgary.org  Wednesday, October 21, 5-7pm  Wednesday, November 4, 5-7pm Bring a friend, have a laugh, make a difference!

Registration required 2 weeks prior.

• Women’s Healing Circle

 AIDS Calgary Training Room  403-508-2500, ext.200  Wednesdays, 1:30pm Topics Covered: Safer Sex & HIV/AIDS, Living with HIV/AIDS, Challenging Stereotypes.

Alberta Society for Kink

 (403) 398-9968

Alternative night every Wednesday.

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DOWNTOWN CALGARY

58 37

43 41

55 9

34 33

56

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48

4

35

2

52

36

3

5 6

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1 2 3 4 5 6

Calgary Outlink---------- Community Groups Aids Calgary------------- Community Groups Backlot------------------------Bars and Clubs Calgary Eagle Inc.------------Bars and Clubs Texas Lounge-----------------Bars and Clubs Goliath’s--------------------------Bathhouses

✰

9 MPs (Money Pennies)--------Bars and Clubs 13 Westways Guest House----Accommodations 16 Priape Calgary----------------- Retail Stores 24 Courtney Aarbo-----------------------Services 33 Twisted Element--------------Bars and Clubs 34 Vertigo Mystery Theatre------------- Theatre

35 36 37 41 43 48

One Yellow Rabbit-------------------- Theatre ATP, Alberta Theatre Projects-------- Theatre Pumphouse Theatre----------------- Theatre La Fleur------------------------- Retail Stores Lisa Heinricks--------- Theatre and Fine Arts Barbies Shop------------------- Retail Stores

52 55 56 58

Sandra G. Sebree--------------------Services Marquee Room---------------Bars and Clubs Sacred Balance Piercing------- Retail Stores Theatre Junction--------------------- Theatre

GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine #72, October 2009

17

Directory and Events  albetasocietyforkink@hotmail.com  ca.groups.yahoo.com/ group.albertasocietyforkink  Meet and Greets: Mondays, 7pm-9:30pm • Kinky Flea Market

 Forest Heights Community Centre 4909 Forego Ave SE

 Sat, Oct 17th, 11am-5pm Apollo Calgary Friends in Sports

 http://www.apollocalgary.com

Apollo Friends In Sports is a volunteer-operated, non-profit organization serving primarily members of the Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual & Transgendered communities but open to members of all communities. We currently have more than 400 members and are growing fast! The primary focus of Apollo is to provide our membership with well organized and fun sporting events and other activities to allow them to participate and interact in a positive social framework.

• Apollo Dance

 Skybar, above the Saltlik restaurant 8th Ave and Center St  Sat Oct 24th, 9pm Free to Apollo members. $10 for non members and $5 for students. Limited capacity, and will work on a first come first serve basis.

• Badminton (Absolutely Smashing)

 St. Martha School (6020 4th Avenue NE)  Wednesdays, 7pm-9pm (Season has ended) Fees Per session: $4 for Apollo member, $5 for nonmembers. Season’s pass $75.

• Boot Camp

 Stone steps, SE corner of Crescent Park Crescent Road & 2nd Street NW  Oct 3, 17, 24, 31, Nov 7, 14, 10:45am-12pm  bootcamp@apollocalgary.com Dress in layers and running shoes, bring plenty of water, bring payment in cash to first session.

Registration has closed.

• Bowling (Rainbow Riders League)

 Let’s 10 Pin Bowlerama, 2916 - 5 Ave NE  (Season has ended) • Curling

 North Hill Curling Club (1201 - 2 Street NW)  Saturdays: 2:20pm and 4:30pm (Season has ended) • Golf

 golf@apollocalgary.com See website for details.

• Lawn Bowling

 Inglewood Lawn Bowling Club 1235 - 8th Avenue SE  Tuesdays, 6-9pm

 lawnbowling@apollocalgary.com

See website for details.

• Outdoor Pursuits See website for details.

• Running (Calgary Frontrunners)

 Coffee Junkies, 7th Street and 1st Ave SW  Tim (403) 660-6125  calgaryfrontrunners@shaw.ca  Saturdays at 9am Distance varies. 8km-15km. Runners from 6 minute/mile to 9+ minute miles. During the summer we attempt to have evening runs during the week.

• Slow Pitch See website for details.

• Tennis See website for details.

• Volleyball (Intermediate/Competitive)

 YWCA, 320 - 5th Avenue SE  www.apollocalgary.com/apollo/volleyball  (Season has ended) This is for seasoned players. You can sign up for the season or drop-in.

• Volleyball (Recreational)

 Langevin School, 107 - 6A Street NE  www.apollocalgary.com/apollo/volleyball  Oct 2, 16, 23, 30, Nov 6, Dec 4, 11 7pm-9pm Volleyball League, Co-Ed, Recreational, Drop-in.

• Yoga Season has ended.

Alberta Rockies Gay Rodeo Association

 (403) 541-8140  www.argra.org • Monthly Dances-----------------------------  Hillhurst-Sunnyside Community Association

1320 - 5th Avenue NW  October Dance (CANCELLED)  Nov 15th, Dec 6th, Doors open 8pm $6 ARGRA Members, $10 non-members.

Artists for the Quality of Life

 (403) 890-1261  www.afqol.com Cabin Fever

 Calgary Eagle, 424a 8th Ave SW

 3RD THURSDAY every month

Women’s dance and social night.

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 Men’s Chorus

 http://www.calgarymenschorus.org • Rehearsals

 Old Y Centre, 223 - 12 Avenue SW  Tuesday nights, Sept-Jun, 7pm-9:30pm

Looking for Something?

Browse over 450 listings in our Online GLBT Business Directory, and our complete Online GLBT Community Events Calendar.

www.gaycalgary.com 18

GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine #72, October 2009

Calgary Sexual Health Centre---------

✰

 304, 301 14th Street NW  (403) 283-5580  http://www.calgarysexualhealth.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.

1 Calgary Outlink---------------------------- ✰

 #4, 1230A 17th Avenue SW  (403) 234-8973  http://www.calgaryoutlink.com

Formerly know as the Gay And Lesbian Community Services Association (GLCSA).

• Annual Fundraising Casino

 Nov 11th-12th  Jim or Ivy: (403) 234-8973  iamhome@shaw.ca Seeking volunteers, please call ASAP for a shift.

Lots of fun and a fabulous buffet meal is included.

• Survey Results Revealed

 Calgary Outdoor Area Council 1111 Memorial Drive NW

 October 21st, 2009  RSVP: info@calgaryoutlink.ca Appetizers and refreshments provided.

• Peer Support and Crisis Line Front-line help service for GLBT individuals and their family and friends, or anyone questioning their sexuality.

• Library A great selection of resource books, fiction, nonfiction, 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.

• Between Men and Between Men Online

 Tuesdays 7pm-9pm 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.

• Calgary Networking Club

 Ming, 520 - 17th Ave SW  First Tuesday of every month, 5pm-7pm 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.

• Heading Out

 2nd and 4th Friday of every month, 7pm-9pm Peer group for men who are looking for an alternative social activity to the bar. Activities vary and are fun and entertaining.

• Illusions Calgary 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

 Every Monday, 7pm-9pm 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. It is a funky and safe environment with a variety of resources and activities.

• New Directions

 Every 3rd Friday of the month, 7pm-9pm Drop in peer-support group to provide support and resources for individuals who identify as transsexual or inter-sexed. 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!

• SHEQ Soulful Healing Ego Quest

 Trudy or Krista, (403) 585-7437  Runs for a ten week period on Thursdays, 7pm 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. To participate, please call the exclusive SHEQ line or leave your name and a contact time/number with Calgary Outlink.

• Womynspace

 Every first and third Friday, 7pm-9pm Peer social/support group for women providing an evening of fun, bonding, discussion and activities.

Calgary Queer Book Club

 Weeds Cafe (1903 20 Ave NW)

Look us up on Facebook.

Deer Park United Church/Wholeness Centre

 77 Deerpoint Road SE  (403) 278-8263  http://www.dpuc.ca  Worship Time - 10am Sundays

Different Strokes

 http://www.differentstrokescalgary.org

• Swim Practice

 SAIT Pool, 1301 - 16th Ave NW  Thursdays 6-7pm, Sundays 5-6:30pm (no practices on long weekends) 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.

FairyTales Presentation Society

 #4 - 1230A 17th Avenue SW  (403) 244-1956

 http://www.fairytalesfilmfest.com

Alberta Gay & Lesbian Film Festival.

• DVD Resource Library Over a hundred titles to choose from. Annual membership is $10.

Directory and Events Gay Singles in Calgary

 http://www.gaysinglesincalgary.org

Girl Friends

 members.shaw.ca/girlfriends

Girlsgroove

 http://www.girlsgroove.ca

HIV Peer Support Group

 (403) 230-5832  hivpeergroup@yahoo.ca

ISCCA Social Association

 http://www.iscca.ca

Imperial Sovereign Court of the Chinook Arch. All monies raised go to Charity.

• Shooters at Texas Lounge

 TBA • BBQ and Shooters at the Backlot

 TBA • BBQ and Shooters at the Calgary Eagle

 TBA • Drag Show at the Calgary Eagle

 TBA Knox United Church

 506 - 4th Street SW  (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 12:10pm.

Sundays - 11am. September to June.

Sundays - 10:30am in July and August.

Miscellaneous Youth Network  http://www.miscyouth.com • Fake Mustache------------------------------  The Soda, 211 - 12th Ave SW  1st Thursday, 7pm-9:45pm Calgary’s ONLY Drag King Show. $5 cover. $2 cover under 18. Advance tickets available at Barbies Shop.

Mystique

 mystiquesocialclub@yahoo.com

Mystique is primarily a Lesbian group for women 30 and up but all are welcome.

• Coffee Night

 Second Cup (2312 - 4th Street SW)

 TBA NETWORKS

 (403) 293-3356  sanpfeif@telus.net

A social, cultural, and service organization for the mature minded and “Plus 40” gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgendered individuals seeking to meet with others at age-appropriate activities within apositive, safe, non-threatening and nurturing environment.

Parents for Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG)

 Sean: (403) 695-5791  http://www.pflagcanada.ca

PFLAG Canada is a registered charitable organization that provides support, education and resources to parents, families and individuals who

have questions or concerns about sexual orientation or gender identity.

Positive Space Committee

 4825 Mount Royal Gate SW  (403) 440-6383  http://www.mtroyal.ca/positivespace

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 Planning Committee

 (403) 797-6564  www.pridecalgary.ca • Annual General Meeting

 Old Y Centre

 Wed Oct 28th, 6:30pm Pride Rainbow Project

 prp@planet-save.com  http://www.priderainbowproject.com

Youth run project designed to show support for same-sex marriage in Canada and elsewhere. A fabric rainbow banner approximately 5 feet wide - goal is to make it 3.2km (2 miles) long, in order to break the world record.

Primetimers Calgary

 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 respects whatever degree of anonymity that each member desires.

• Monday Walkers

 Every Monday • Lawn Bowling

 Every Tuesday • Free Pool at the Calgary Eagle

 Every Wednesday • Saturday Coffee

 Midtown Co-op, 1130 - 11th Ave SW  Every Saturday, 10am • Card Night

 Harvey and Tony’s House  Oct 20th  RSVP: (403) 547-9129 Queers on Campus--------------------- ✰

 279R Student Union Club Spaces, U of C  (403) 220-6394  http://www.ucalgary.ca/~glass Formerly GLASS - Gay/Lesbian Association of Students and Staff.

• Coffee Night

 2nd Cup, Kensington.

 Every Tuesday, 7pm.

Rainbow Community Church

 Hillhurst United, 1227 Kensington Close NW  roneberly@shaw.ca  http://www.rainbowcommunitychurch.ca  Services: every Sunday afternoon at 4:00pm The Rainbow Community Church is an all-inclusive church; everyone is welcome.

Rocky Mountain Bears  bearcoltr@shaw.ca

 http://www.rockymountainbears.com

• Potluck Dinner

 Terry Bryant’s

 Oct 17th, 7pm

 (403) 697-3042

4 Calgary Eagle Inc.--------------------- See Calgary - Bars and Clubs.

✰

Halo Steak, Seafood & Wine Bar

 Canyon Meadows Plaza

• General Meeting

 Money Pennies

 Oct 22nd, 7pm

13226 Macleod Trail SE  (403) 271-4111  www.halosteakseafoodandwinebar.ca

• Halloween Bar NIght

 Calgary Eagle

 Oct 31st, 10pm

9 MPs (Money Pennies)----------------- See Calgary - Bars and Clubs.

Safety Under the Rainbow

 http://www.safetyrainbow.ca

Mission: To raise awareness and understanding of same-sex domestic violence and homophobic youth bullying.

Scarboro United Church

 134 Scarboro Avenue SW  (403) 244-1161  www.scarborounited.ab.ca  Sunday Worship: 10:30am Scarboro United Church is a caring community for risk-takers, adventurers, and explorers in contemporary Christian living. Scarboro is an affirming congregation, which means that the full inclusion of LGBT people is essential to our mission and purpose. Scarboro United Church welcomes all to our spiritually enriching Sunday Service at 10:30am. Afterwards, all are welcome to join us in fellowship downstairs over coffee, tea, juice, and home-baked treats.

Sharp Foundation

 (403) 272-2912  sharpfoundation@nucleus.com  http://www.thesharpfoundation.com

Unity Bowling

 Let’s Bowl (2916 - 5th Ave NE)  sundayunity@live.com  New season begins Sept 13th.

Urban Sex Radio Show

 CJSW 90.9 FM

 http://www.cjsw.com

 Every Wednesday from 9-10pm Focus on sexuality; gay bisexual lesbian trans gendered and straight issues here in Calgary and around the web.

Western Canada Bigmen and Admirers

 groups.yahoo.com/group/

WesternCanadaBigmenGroup/  bigpaul41@yahoo.com Vigor Calgary

 (403) 255-7004

Restaurants

 www.vigorcalgary.ca

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.

“Yeah... What She Said!” Radio Show

 CJSW 90.9 FM

 yeahwhatshesaid@gmail.com  Every Monday evening, 8:30-9pm

✰

Retail Stores Adult Depot----------------------------- ✰  (403) 258-2777 Gay, bi, straight video rentals and sex toys.

 140, 58th Ave SW

48 Barbies Shop--------------------------- ✰

 1313 16th Avenue SW  (403) 262-8265  http://www.barbiesshop.com 41 La Fleur------------------------------------  103 - 100 7th Avenue SW  (403) 266-1707

Florist and Flower Shop.

The Naked Leaf---------------------------  305 10th Street NW  (403) 283-3555  http://www.thenakedleaf.ca

Organic teas and tea ware.

16 Priape Calgary------------------------- ✰

 1322 - 17 Ave SW  (403) 215-1800  http://www.priape.com

Clothing and accessories. Adult toys, leather wear, movies and magazines. Gifts.

Wares & Wear Ventures Inc. See Canada - Retail Stores.

Services & Products Calgary Civil Marriage Centre  ca.ca@shaw.ca Marriage Commissioner for Alberta (aka Justice of the Peace - JP), Marriage Officiant, Commissioner for Oaths.  (403) 246-4134

24 Courtney Aarbo (Barristers & Solicitors)

 1138 Kensington Road NW  (403) 571-5120  http://www.courtneyaarbo.ca

GLBT legal services.

Cruiseline

 (403) 777-9494 trial code 3500  http://www.cruiseline.ca

Telephone classifieds and chat - 18+ ONLY. DevaDave Salon & Boutique

 810 Edmonton Trail NE  (403) 290-1973

Cuts, Colour, Hilights.

Duncan’s Residential Cleaning  Jim Duncan: (403) 978-6600

Residential cleaning. Free estimates.

Interactive Male

 (403) 261-2112 trial code 8873  1-800-777-8000  www.interactivemale.com

GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine #72, October 2009

19

Directory and Events DOWNTOWN EDMONTON

1

8

5

7 11 6 12

1 Pride Centre------------- Community Groups 3 HIV Network------------- Community Groups 4 Edmonton STD---------- Community Groups

Jeff LeBlanc, Century 21

 #1, 4600 Crowchild Trail NW  Cell: (403) 542-6926  Pager: (403) 509-2121  Fax: (403) 509-2130  jeff@homeswethometeam.ca  www.homesweethometeam.ca

Keith Hill, North Hill Mazda

 1211 Centre Street NW  Cell: (403) 614-7359  Phone: (403) 276-5962  Fax: (403) 276-7361  khill@northhillmazda.com  www.northhillmazda.com

Lorne Doucette (CIR Realtors)

3

5 Boots Bar and Lounge-------Bars and Clubs 6 Buddy’s Nite Club------------Bars and Clubs 7 Down Under Baths---------------Bathhouses

8 Prism Bar & Grill-------------Bars and Clubs 11 Steamworks----------------------Bathhouses 12 Woody’s-----------------------Bars and Clubs

13 PLAY Nightclub---------------Bars and Clubs

56 Sacred Balance Piercing

 1528 - 17th Avenue SW  (403) 277-4449  www.sacredbalancetattoo.com

 http://www.ourworldnetwork.com/dianevp

 (403) 205-2922  info@theatrejunction.com  http://www.theatrejunction.com

Tattos and body piercing.

36 ATP, Alberta Theatre Projects

 (403) 294-7402  http://www.ATPlive.com

SafeWorks Free and confidential HIV/AIDS and STI testing.

• Centre of Hope

 Room 201, 420 - 9th Ave SE  (403) 410-1180  Mon-Fri: 1pm-5pm

Jubilations Dinner Theatre  Bow Trail and 37th St. SW  (403) 249-7799  www.jubilations.ca

• Sheldon M. Chumir Health Centre

• Safeworks Van

 (403) 850-3755  Sat-Thu: 8pm-12am, Fri: 4pm-12am

Rick Grenier (Invis)

 (403) 862-1162  rickgrenier@invis.ca Mortgage solutions.

52 Sandra G. Sebree, Lawyer

 1610 - 17th Ave SW  (403) 228-8108  www.sandrasebree.com

TherapyWorks

 (403) 561-6873  ckorol@therapyworks.ca  http://www.therapyworks.com Take back your life from stress, sadness, and worry.

Youth Juice

 (403) 686-7714

20

AXIS Contemporary Art------------------- (403) 262-3356  www.axisart.ca

 107, 100 - 7 Ave SW  rob@axisart.ca

Marnie Campbell (Maxwell Realtors)

 (403) 479-8619  http://www.marniecampbell.ca

Web site hosting and development. Computer hardware and software.

Theatre and Fine Arts

• Calgary Drop-in Centre

 Room 117, 423 - 4th Ave SE  (403) 699-8216  Mon-Fri: 9am-12pm, Sat: 12:15pm-3:15pm

 1213 - 4th Str SW  (403) 955-6014  Sat-Thu: 4:15pm-7:45pm, Fri: Closed

MFM Communications

N

4

 (403) 461-9195  http://www.lornedoucette.com

 (403) 543-6970  1-877-543-6970  http://www.mfmcommunications.com

13

 dianevp@shaw.ca

GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine #72, October 2009

Fairytales See Calgary - Community Groups.

EDMONTON Bars and Clubs 5 Boots Bar and Lounge----------------- ✰

 10242 106th St  (780) 423-5014  http://www.bootsbar.ca/

43 Lisa Heinricks (Artist)---------------------  Art Central, 100 7th Ave SW, lower level  http://www.creamydreamy.com 35 One Yellow Rabbit-------------------------  Big Secret Theatre - EPCOR CENTRE  (403) 299-8888  www.oyr.org 37 Pumphouse Theatre------------------  2140 Pumphouse Avenue SW  (403) 263-0079  http://www.pumphousetheatres.ca

✰

Stagewest-------------------------------

✰

 727 - 42 Avenue SE  (403) 243-6642  http://www.stagewestcalgary.com 58 Theatre Junction----------------------  Theatre Junction GRAND, 608 1st St. SW

34 Vertigo Mystery Theatre------------------  161, 115 - 9 Ave SE  (403) 221-3708  http://www.vertigomysterytheatre.com

✰

6 Buddy’s Nite Club------------------------- ✰

 11725 Jasper Ave  (780) 488-6636 13 PLAY Nightclub---------------------------- ✰

 10220 103 Street  (780) 497-7529  info@playnightclub.ca  http://www.playnightclub.ca 8 Prism Bar & Grill---------------------- ✰

 10524 101st St  (780) 990-0038  http://www.prismbar.ca 12 Woody’s------------------------------------ ✰

 11725 Jasper Ave  (780) 488-6557

Bathhouses/Saunas 7 Down Under Baths------------------------ ✰

 12224 Jasper Ave  (780) 482-7960  http://www.gayedmonton.com

Directory and Events 11 Steamworks------------------------------- ✰

 11745 Jasper Ave  (780) 451-5554  http://www.steamworksedmonton.com

Community Groups Alberta Bears  www.bearbeef.org • BBQ

 Victoria Park  Sun Oct 24th, 1-3pm

• BEEF Bear Bash

 Boots Bar and Lounge  Sat Oct 24th, 8pm

 Boots Bar and Lounge No line and no cover as always! Sport and Fetish Gear welcome!

Book Worm’s Book Club  Second Cup, 11210 Jasper Ave  bookworm@teamedmonton.ca  TBA Buck Naked Boys Club

 (780) 471-6993  http://www.bucknakedboys.ca  2nd Saturday of every month

Naturism club for men. 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.

Camp fYrefly

 7-104 Dept. of Educational Policy Studies

Faculty of Education, University of Alberta Edmonton, Alberta, Canada T6G 2G5  http://www.fyrefly.ualberta.ca Edmonton Pride Week Society

 http://www.prideedmonton.org

Edmonton Prime Timers  edmontonpt@yahoo.ca  www.primetimersww.org/edmonton EPT is a group of older gay men and their admirers who come from diverse backgrounds but have common social interests. Meetings include a social period, a short business meeting and then either a guest speaker, discussion panel, or a potluck supper. Special interest groups meet for other social activities throughout the month. In July and August we have a BBQ or picnic in lieu of a meeting and in December it’s replaced with a Christmas party. EPT is affiliated with Prime Timers World Wide.

• Monthly Meetings

 Unitarian Church, 10804 - 119th Street  2nd Sunday of most months, 2:30pm Edmonton Rainbow Business Association

 3379, 11215 Jasper Ave  (780) 429-5014  http://www.edmontonrba.org

ERBA’s 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.

• Business Mixer

 Prism Bar & Grill (10524 - 101 St)  Tues Oct 13th, 5:30pm • Sunday Brunch

 Prism Bar & Grill (10524 - 101 St)  Sun Nov 15th, 11am-2pm • Annual General Meeting

 Prism Bar & Grill (10524 - 101 St)  Sun Nov 15th, 2pm Please bring a friend (someone who owns and/or operates a GLBT business or a GLBT-friendly business). New members are always welcome.

Edmonton Illusions Social Club

 Boots Bar & Grill  (780) 387-3343

 groups.yahoo.com/group/edmonton_illusions  2nd Friday of each month 4 Edmonton STD

 11111 Jasper Ave

Edmonton Vocal Minority  sing@evmchoir.com

 (780) 479-2038  www.evmchoir.com

Exposure 2009

 Nov 13th- 22nd, 2009 3 HIV Network Of Edmonton Society---- ✰  11456 Jasper Ave  www.hivedmonton.com

Imperial Sovereign Court of the Wild Rose

 http://www.gayedmonton.org

OUTreach

 University of Alberta, basement of SUB  outreach@ualberta.ca  http://www.ualberta.ca/~outreach

Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender/transsexual, Queer, Questioning and Straight-but-not-Narrow student group.

1 Pride Centre of Edmonton------------ ✰

 95A Street, 111 Ave  (780) 488-3234  admin@pridecentreofedmonton.org

• Bears Movie Night

 TV room, Pride Centre of Edmonton  Last Sunday of the month, 1-6pm • Community Potluck

 Main Space – Upstairs

 tuff@shaw.ca

 Last Tuesday, 7-9pm

A potluck open to all members of the LGBTQ community. A time to get together, share a meal and meet people from the community.

• Free School

 Main Space – Upstairs  monika_penner@shaw.ca  2nd and 4th Sunday, 11am-5pm Free School provides workshops on a variety of topics related to local activism.

• Get Straight – Cocaine Anonymous

 Downstairs Couch Area

 Thursdays, 7-8pm Cocaine Anonymous: Support group for anyone struggling with cocaine or drug addictions.

• Get Tested for STIs

 Last Thurs of Month, 3pm - 6pm

Free STD testing for anyone interested. For more information please contact the Pride Centre.

• GLBT Seniors Drop-In

 Main Space – Upstairs  tuff@shaw.ca

 Every Tuesday & Thursday, 1-4pm A social and support group for seniors of all genders and sexualities to talk, have tea and offer each other support.

• Trans Education/Support Group

 Green Room – Upstairs

 2nd Tuesday, 7:30-9:30pm Transgender Education and Support Group: Education and support for transgender, transsexual and questioning people in any stage of transition.

• Men Talking with Pride

 Main Space – Upstairs

 robwells780@hotmail.com  Every Sunday, 7-9pm A social discussion group for gay, bisexual and transgendered men to discuss current issues and to offer support to each other.

• Men’s HIV Support Group

 Green Room – Upstairs  huges@shaw.ca

 2nd Monday of the month, 7-9pm Support group for people living with HIV/AIDS. • PFLAG

 Red room - Downstairs  780-436-1998  edmontonab@pflagcanada.ca  1st Wednesday, 7-9pm Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays: A support group for family members and friends of GLBT people. An excellent resource for people whose family members and friends have just come out.

• Prime Timers See Edmonton Primetimers.

• Queer Youth Sport & Recreation night

 Alex Taylor School Gym, 9321 Jasper Ave  Brendan, (780) 488-3234  brendan@pridecentreofedmonton.org  First Tuesday of every month, 4:30pm • Suit Up and Show Up: AA Big Book Study

 Downstairs Couch Area

 Saturdays, 12-1pm Discussion and support group for those struggling with an alcohol addiction or seeking support in staying sober.

• TTIQ

 Green Room – Upstairs  admin@pridecentreofedmonton.org  1st and 3rd Sunday, 2-4pm TTIQ is mixed gender open support group addressing the needs of transsexual and transgendered individuals. Brunch at a local restaurant on the last Sunday of each month at 12:00.

• Womonspace Board Meeting

 Main Space – Upstairs  wspresident@hotmail.com  1st Sunday, 10:30am-12:30pm Womonspace is a Social and Recreational Society in Edmonton run by volunteers. They provide opportunities for lesbians to interact and support each other in a safe environment, and to contribute to the broader community.

• Youth Movie

 Main Space – Upstairs  brendan@pridecentreofedmonton.org  Fridays, 6:30-8:30pm Movie chosen by youth (aged 14 – 25), usually with LGBT themes. Popcorn is served.

• YouthSpace

 brendan@pridecentreofedmonton.org  Tuesday to Thursday, 3-7pm Fridays, 3-6:30pm Saturdays, 3-6:30pm A safe and supportive space for GLBTQ youth aged 13–25. Video games, computers with internet, clothing bank, and more.

• Youth Theatre Project

 Downstairs Couch Area  will@pridecentreofedmonton.org  Every Wednesday, 7-8:30pm

An opportunity for youth to address the problem of homophobic bullying through theatre. Write and rehearse skits, perform in the community, and help make a documentary.

• Youth Understanding Youth See separate listing.

• Youth Yoga

 Alex Taylor School Gym (9321 Jasper Ave)  Every 1st Thursday, 4:30pm Team Edmonton

 president@teamedmonton.ca  http://www.teamedmonton.ca

Members are invited to attend and help determine the board for the next term. If you are interested in running for the board or getting involved in some of the committees, please contact us.

• Badminton

 Oliver School, 10227 - 118 Street  (780) 465-3620

 badminton@teamedmonton.ca  Wednesdays, 6pm-7:30pm Oct 7th-mid March 2010, 6-7:30pm Women’s Drop-In Recreational Badminton. $40.00 season or $5.00 per drop in.

•Ballroom Dancing

 Foot Notes Dance Studio, 9708-45 Avenue NW  Cynthia: (780) 469-3281  Oct 11th-Dec 13th, Sundays, 7:30-8:30pm

• Blazin’ Bootcamp

 Oliver Community Hall (10326 - 118 Ave)  bootcamp@teamedmonton.ca  Every Mon + Thurs, 7pm-8:15pm  Mon Oct 19th at Lynwood School • Bowling (Northern Titans)

 Gateway Lanes, 100 - 3414 Gateway Blvd

 bowling@teamedmonton.ca  Every Saturday, 5pm-7pm Resumes Saturday January 3rd $15.00 per person.

• Curling with Pride

 Granite Curling Club, 8620 107 Street NW  (780) 463-5942  curling@teamedmonton.ca  Begins Oct 19th, Mondays, 7:15pm.

• Cycling (Edmonton Prideriders)

 Various locations in Edmonton

GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine #72, October 2009

21

Directory and Events  cycling@teamedmonton.ca  Every Wednesday, 6:30pm • Dragon Boat (Flaming Dragons)

 dragonboat@teamedmonton.ca • Golf  golf@teamedmonton.ca • Gymnastics, Drop-in

 Ortona Gymnastics Club, 8755 - 50 Avenue  gymnastics@teamedmonton.ca  Tuesdays & Thursdays, 8pm-10pm Have the whole gym to yourselves and an instructor to help you achieve your individual goals. Cost is $5.00 per session.

• Outdoor Pursuits

 outdoorpursuits@teamedmonton.ca • Running (Arctic Frontrunners)

 Emily Murphy Park, meet at West End  running@teamedmonton.ca  Every Sunday, 10am-11am All genders and levels of runners and walkers are invited to join this free activity.

• Roller Derby (Practices)

 eville@teamedmonton.ca  Mondays & Thursdays, 6:30-8:30pm E-Ville Roller Derby is a community-wise sports initiative for adult females. Their purpose is for fun, friendly sports competition among like-minded women. You need no prior experience in roller derby. They’ll teach you everything you need to know, including how to skate!

• Samsara Yoga

 Korezone Fitness, #203, 10575 -115 Street  yoga@teamedmonton.ca  Classes resume Sun Sept 27th, 2- 3:30pm • Slo Pitch

 Parkallen Field, 111 st and 68 ave  slo-pitch@teamedmonton.ca  Wednesdays, 7pm. Season resumes May 6th.

Season fee is $30.00 per person. $10 discount for players from the 2008 season.

• Snowballs III

 February 5-7th, 2010  snowballs@teamedmonton.ca

Skiing and Snowboarding Weekend.

• Soccer

 soccer@teamedmonton.ca

• Spin

 MacEwan Centre for Sport and Wellness 109 St. and 104 Ave  Wednesdays, 5:45-6:45pm Season has ended.  spin@teamedmonton.ca 7 classes, $28.00 per registrant.

• Swimming (Making Waves)

 NAIT Pool  swimming@teamedmonton.ca  Resumes Sept 4th • Tennis

 Kinsmen Sports Centre  Sundays, 12pm-3pm

 tennis@teamedmonton.ca • Ultimate Frisbee  Sundays Summer Season starts July 12th  ultimatefrisbee@teamedmonton.ca E-mail if interested.

• Volleyball, Free To Be Intermediate

 Amiskiwacy Academy (101 Airport Road)  volleyball@teamedmonton.ca  Thursday nights from 7:30pm-9:30pm • Volleyball, Free To Be Recreational Grass

 Kinsmen Sports Centre  recvolleyball@teamedmonton.ca  Outdoor season, Sundays, 3-5pm • Women’s Lacrosse

 Sharon: 780-461-0017  Pam: 780-436-7374 Open to women 21+, experienced or not, all are welcome. Call for info.

Womonspace

 (780) 482-1794  womonspace@gmail.com  www.womonspace.ca

Women’s social group, but all welcome at events.

• AGM & Dance

 Bellevue Community Hall 7308 - 112th Ave NW Sat Oct 24th, AGM: 7pm, Dance: 9pm  Youth Understanding Youth

 Edmonton Pride Centre, Main Space Upstairs

 yuy@shaw.ca  www.members.shaw.ca/yuy  Every Wed/Thurs/Fri, 7pm-9pm A place where LGBTQ youth under 25 can gather to

have fun and learn about themselves and others in a safe, supportive, and caring environment.

 Tues Oct 20th

• Sports and Recreation

 Pride Centre, 9540 - 111 Ave  Brendan: (780) 488-3234  brendan@pridecentreofedmonton.org  Wed/Thurs/Fri, meet at 4:00pm

• Lesbian Speed Dating

 Boston Pizza Private Party Room, Whyte Ave

 Tues Oct 27th Must pre-register to attend - please contact us.

Theatre and Fine Arts

Restaurants

Exposure Festival

5 Garage Burger Bar & Grill---------------  10242 106th St  (780) 423-5014 8 Prism Bar & Grill----------------------

✰

See Edmonton - Bars and Clubs.

Retail Stores Rodéo Drive

 11528 - 89th Street  (780) 474-0413  brendalee@rodeodrive.ca  http://www.rodeodrive.ca His and hers fetish wear, toys, jewelry, etc.

The Travelling Tickle Trunk

 9923 - 82 Avenue  (780) 469-6669  www.travelingtickletrunk.com

Sex-positive adult toy store.

Wares & Wear Ventures Inc. See Canada - Retail Stores.

Services Cruiseline

 (780) 413-7122 trial code 3500  http://www.cruiseline.ca Telephone classifieds and chat - 18+ ONLY. Interactive Male

 (780) 409-3333 trial code 8871  1-800-777-8000  www.interactivemale.com Over the Top Designs

 (780) 974-5269

Servicing Calgary, Edmonton & Red Deer exclusively.

Robertson-Wesley United Church

 10209 - 123 St. NW  (780) 482-1587  jravenscroft@rwuc.org  www.rwuc.org  Worship: Sunday mornings at 10:30am People of all sexual orientations welcome. Other LGBT events include a monthly book club and a bi-monthly film night. As a caring spiritual community, we’d love to have you join us!

• Soul OUTing

 Second Sunday every month, 7pm An LGBT-focused alternative worship.

• Film Night

 Bi-monthly, contact us for exact dates.

• Book Club

 Monthly, contact us for exact dates.

Same Gender Speed Dating Ltd.

 (780) 221-8535  www.samegenderdating.com

An LGBT-focused alternative worship.

• Gay Male Speed Dating

 Boston Pizza Private Party Room, Whyte Ave 22

GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine #72, October 2009

Must pre-register to attend - please contact us.

 http://www.exposurefestival.ca

Edmonton’s Queer Arts and Culture Festival.

BANFF/CANMORE Community Groups Mountain Pride

 Brian, (403) 431-2569  mountainpride@gaybanff.com  www.gaybanff.com

Serving the GLBTQS community in Banff, Canmore, Lake Louise and Area.

• Coffee Night

 The Hub, 302 Buffalo Street  4th Tuesday, 7pm-10pm • Queer Cinema Night

 The Hub, 302 Buffalo Street  2nd Monday, 8pm-11pm

LETHBRIDGE Community Groups GALA/LA

 (403) 308-2893  http://www.galalethbridge.ca

Gay and Lesbian Alliance of Lethbridge and Area.

• Monthly Dances

 Airforce Veterans Hall, 517 - 5 Ave S

 Oct 24th Nov 21st, 9pm-2am Bring your membership card and photo ID. • Monthly Potluck Dinners

 McKillop United Church, 2329 - 15 Ave S  3rd or Last Sat. every month, 5:30pm-8pm Members/family/friends, and children are all welcome to attend. Please bring dish that will serve 4-6 people and own beverage (no-alcohol). Plates, utensils, and coffee provided.

• Support Line

 (403) 308-2893  Monday OR Wednesday, 7pm-11pm Leave a message any other time.

• Parents & Friends for Lesbians & Gays

 lethbridgeab@pflagcanada.ca • Gay Youth Alliance Group

 Betty, (403) 381-5260  bneil@chr.ab.ca  Every second Wednesday, 3:30pm-5pm • Friday Mixer

 The Mix (green water tower) 103 Mayor Magrath Dr S  Every Friday at 10pm

Continued on Next Page 

Directory and Events • Movie Night

 Room C610, University of Lethbridge  TBA Gay & Lesbian Integrity Assoc. (GALIA)

 University of Lethbridge  galia@uleth.ca

GBLTTQQ club on campus.

Pride Lethbridge

 lethbridgepridefest@gmail.com

RED DEER Community Groups Affirm

 Sunnybrook United Church  (403) 347-6073  2nd Tuesday of the month, 7pm

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!

ALBERTA Community Groups Central Alberta AIDS Network Society

 4611-50 Avenue, Red Deer, AB  http://www.caans.org The Central Alberta AIDS Network Society is the local charity responsible for HIV prevention and support in Central Alberta.

Western Canadian Pride Campout  www.eventmasterinc.net YouthSafe

 http://www.youthsafe.net

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.

Theatre and Fine Arts

A nexus for transgendered persons, regardless of where they may be on the continuum.

Canadian Rainbow Health Coalition

 P.O. Box 3043, Saskatoon, SK, S7K 3S9

 (306) 955-5135

 1-800-955-5129

 http://www.rainbowhealth.ca Egale Canada

 8 Wellington St E, Third Floor

Toronto, Ontario, M5E 1C5

 1-888-204-7777  www.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.

Retail Stores Wares & Wear Ventures Inc.  www.wwlatex.com Fetish wear and toys. 

(780) 980-1977

Dear Editor, In a few weeks, I would be celebrating my wife’s birthday if she had not taken her life. You see, Suzanne suffered from “Bipolar disorder” (BPD). We enjoyed many happy times, but in the end, she could not handle life’s pressures. She was not alone. Health. com suggests that “up to 2.5 % of the adult population has a BPD diagnosis and of those, 20% take their own life.” BPD medications work very well, but if it is not followed closely with counseling, some BPD sufferers have difficulty staying on their medications.

When they are feeling great, they become deluded and decide they do not need their drug therapy. The result is a quick slide into deep depression.

Suzanne committed suicide 1 week before our wedding anniversary. I miss her so much! If you have BPD, please stick with counseling, in the good times as well as the bad. And if your loved one has BPD, you can also get help. CMHA-Calgary Region runs weekly meetings for people whose loved ones suffer from BPD or any other mental illness. Contact Laura at Canadian Mental Health Association-Calgary region office at 403-297-1401. Other contacts are: 1-800-SUICIDE/1-800-784-2433 or Mental Health Crisis Helpline 24 hours a day at 1-877-303-2642 or cmha.calgary.ab.ca I will never regret falling in love with Suzanne. Now, I just wish that BPD doesn’t claim another life.

Sincerely, Dee

Services ATM Service Solutions

 1-866-640-8830  admin@minibanks.net  http://www.minibanks.net

Squirt 

http://www.squirt.org

Website for dating and hook-ups. 18+ ONLY!

Theatre and Fine Arts Broadway Across Canada 

http://www.broadwayacrosscanada.ca OUTtv 

http://www.outtv.ca

GLBT Television Station.

Alberta Ballet

 http://www.albertaballet.com

Frequent productions in Calgary and Edmonton.

CANADA Community Groups Alberta Trans Support/Activities Group

 http://www.albertatrans.org

Add Your Listing!

Find out how to have your business listed in our monthly magazine directory:  (403) 543-6960  1-888-543-6960  magazine@gaycalgary.com.

Add your listing to our online directory for free:  http://www.gaycalgary.com GayCalgary endeavors to keep our directory and events information accurate and up to date. If you notice anything incorrect or out of date, please contact us.

Non-profit groups receive free listings.

Letters

Dear GayCalgary, The 6th Annual Donnie Peters Memorial Cut-A-Thon on Labour Day Monday was an incredible success. We had more sponsors than ever before, and less people did the work of many.

We kicked off with Breakfast Television Friday August 28th and just as the year before, WOW, did that segment create a buzz and seats in the chairs at the Park!

Friday Sept 4th, we kicked off Pride with the Last Days of Disco @ the Backlot raising over $1000. Then, in Tomkins Park alone we cleared well over $7800 from haircuts, merchandise sales, booths and donations.

So, in no particular order, may I say “Thank you” to: Barb Stein, Uptown 17 BRZ for donating Tomkins Park and your generous cash donation and continued support; Twisted Element for donating the sound system and INCREDIBLE cash donation of $3000; Media Sponsor: Gay Calgary and Edmonton Magazine; DJs: Krazy Steve, Tony Morello, Gemini, and Roger; Graphics: Del Rocko Graphics, Madding Crowd; Salons: Jami Symons Salon, Ginger Group, Alta Moda, Attributes hair perfection, The Corner, the Fringe; Doggy Division: Comfy Couch Pet Services, Doggywood; Booths: Deva Dave, Mike and “Get your Ass out There!”; Face Painting : Snickles the Clown; Food: Smokin’ Joes; Volunteer After Party: Manie’s Greek Cuisine; Sponsors: AIDS Calgary, Backlot, Clarke (Event Production), CIR Realtors (Lorne Doucette), GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine, Goliath’s/Texas Lounge, ISCCA, Huston Marketing Group Inc, La Fluer, Dr. Tim Lazaroff, MoneyPennies, The Calgary Eagle, Ox Financial Corp, Red Rose Florist, Twisted Element, U Framing and Art, AG Hair Cosmetics, Priape, Zirco, Calgary Westways Guest House, de Waal Music Studio, Discover Dental, and Shaw TV. Once again, we’d like to thank everyone that helped in any way to make 2009 our best year ever.

Go with Love, Linda Eckess On behalf of the AFQOL team

Continued on Page 50 

GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine #72, October 2009

23

Politics

It’s About Pride...And Perspective

By Stephen Lock Given the recent upset that has erupted over Calgary’s latest Pride festival, a tempest in a teacup if ever there was one, it might be worthwhile to give a moment’s thought to what we actually have in Canada and, specifically Calgary, compared to other parts of the world.

Sexual minorities have no rights, because they have crossed the line.

Alternative sexuality is a crime against God”.

Russian Orthodox leaders echoed his views, declaring that homosexuality is a “sin which destroys human beings and condemns them to a spiritual death”.

Organizers of the Pride Parade in the Serbian capital city of Belgrade recently had to cancel it following threats from Serbian nationalists and the government’s inability to protect participants.

Alekseev and his LGBT Human Rights Project, the parade’s organizers, along with several Russian and foreign supporters, including members of the European Parliament and the German Federal Parliament, attempted to hold two successive protest rallies after a court upheld Mayor Luzkhov’s ban on the original event. That event was to commemorate the 13th anniversary of the decriminalization of homosexuality in Russia, which was originally criminalized under the Communists.

The parade, which was supported by the Ministry for Human Rights and Minorities, would have been the first GLBTQ rights march since a 2001 rally, which ended in violence after police failed to protect participants from attacks by football hooligans, many of which were aligned with ultra-nationalists and other right-wing reactionaries.

There were two main confrontations, the first of which occurred when activists approached the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Red Square to lay wreaths. Hundreds of protesters, including skinheads and ultra-nationalists, beat and kicked the participants, while throwing projectiles and chanting anti-gay slogans.

Organizer Dragana Vuckovic stated on national television that Prime Minister Mirko Cvetkovic “handed us a paper informing us that the parade (in central Belgrade) was not possible because the risks were too high.”

There were several reports of police standing by and failing to protect the participants. Volker Beck, a member of the German Parliament who was there in support of the parade, was attacked and punched in the face. No arrests were ever made, at least not of the attackers. Several of the organizers were arrested, however.

Organizers cancelled the event, planned for September 20th, after police suggested it take place in a field across the Sava and Danube rivers, away from downtown Belgrade. The parade was originally to have been held outside the philosophy faculty in the centre of Belgrade.

“The message of equal rights is transmitted symbolically when a group on the margins is able to parade in the centre of the capital,” she said, in rejecting the alternative site.

Meanwhile, the ultra-nationalist Serb Popular Movement 1389 hailed the cancellation of the march as “a great victory for normal Serbia.”

The group said it would hold its own demonstration at the philosophy faculty three hours before the Pride event would have begun, for a “non-violent and non-deviant popular Serb rally.... In our city, infidels and Satanists will not pass.”

President Boris Tadic warned against “threats and violence” and creating an “atmosphere of chaos” adding, “the state will do everything to protect people, whatever their national, religious, sexual or political orientation, and no group must resort to threats and violence, or take justice into its own hands and jeopardize the lives of those who think, or are, different.”

The Serbian parliament passed an anti-discrimination law in March 2009 banning discrimination against homosexuals, despite opposition from nationalists and religious leaders. However, gay men and lesbians are still denied the right to marry, adopt children, and other rights enjoyed by heterosexuals.

In previous years, Muscovite lesbians and gay men faced similar reactions when Moscow Pride, headed by Nikolai Alekseev, was banned

by Moscow’s mayor, Yuri Luzhkov; the events went ahead anyway.

Pride events from 2006 to 2009 were, as in Belgrade, marred by violence perpetuated by ultra-nationalists, skinheads, and members of the Russian Orthodox Church.

Moscow’s Chief of Security justified the 2006 ban by saying “all public expressions [by gays and lesbians] must be banned...they violate our rights. We have our traditions. Lots of religious groups told us that they were against this gay pride.”

The chief mufti of Russia’s Central Spiritual Governance for Muslims, Talgat Tadzhuddin, even went so far as to openly advocate violence towards any participants, stating, “The parade should not be allowed, and if they still come out into the streets, then they should be bashed.

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GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine #72, October 2009

The 2007 parade experienced similar attacks and a similar lack of response from Moscow police.

An anti-gay activist kicked Italian Member of Parliament, Marco Cappato. When he demanded police protection, the police detained him. British gay rights veteran Peter Tatchell and Alekseev were also detained. According to Tatchell, “...[T]he police were standing nearby and did nothing. Eventually they moved in. I was arrested while my attackers were allowed to go free.”

Apparently not one to give up easily, Alekseev and the LGBT Human Rights Project again applied in 2008 for five different permits.

Despite international attention and past condemnation of the Moscow authorities’ handling of anti-GLBTQ protesters and treatment of pro-GLBTQ participants, and the intervention of Russian President, Dmitry Medvedev who phoned the Prefecture of the Central Administrative Area of Moscow insisting he authorize the events, Mayor Luzkhov again banned all 155 planned events.

Organizers took their cause to the European Court of Human Rights after they lost in Russian courts. The European Court found in their favour.

Moscow Pride 2008 occurred in two locations.

The first was a “flashmob” protest lead by Alekseev and thirty other activists in front of the statue of Tchaikovsky, the famous Russian composer and a known homosexual.

At the second event, they unveiled a banner from the third floor of a building across from City Hall, which stated, “Rights to Gays and Lesbians. Homophobia of Mayor Luzhkov should be prosecuted.”

This time the effort paid off. They were able to have their flashmob protest without being assaulted or arrested because it was not known

Politics where they were going to be and, in the second instance they avoided clashes with anti-GLBTQ protesters as they were 3-stories above them.

The 2009 event, held on May 19th on the eve of International Day Against Homophobia (IDAH), was again banned by Moscow’s mayor.

Moscow officials issued statements stating that “protesters” (participants in the event) would be treated “toughly” and face “tough measures” by the Moscow police. Alekseev refused to be intimidated and announced the parade was a “risk that must be taken, otherwise the homophobes and authoritarians will win.”

The protest was originally announced as taking place at Novopushkinsky Skver in central Moscow, but organizers changed the location at the last moment to the Vorobyovy Gory viewpoint near Moscow State University, a popular spot for wedding photographs, in order to avoid queer-bashing attacks and, one suspects, to make a statement in favour of same-sex marriage.

The activists were arrested within minutes, despite being filmed by television crews, including the state-financed Russia Today. As he was being arrested, Tatchell was quoted as saying “this shows the Russian people are not free”. He also stated the Moscow police troops were, again, “needlessly violent.”

Belarusian activists who attended the event in solidarity were freed at about 2am, however Alekseev, in violation of Russian law, was held overnight and interrogated for hours.

In light of such events, does it not seem a tad...petty...for us to engage in the back-and-forth bitch-fighting that has come to characterize our own Pride celebrations?

formed by Gay Liberation politics, hearing that! Of course it was about politics! It commemorated Stonewall, for crying out loud. Not about politics? Heresy!!

That year, 1993 I think it was, the Calgary Pride Parade and Street Fair attracted well over a thousand people, especially since Project Pride changed the route from downtown and over the Langevin Bridge to Bridgeland Community Centre, to down 12th Ave SW, up 8th Street to 17th Ave SW and right through the middle of what in later years came to be known as the Red Mile.

CLAGPAG’s Bridgeland route barely attracted anyone but a few friends and family along the side of the street and surprised residents of Bridgeland seeing our ragtag March from their balconies. Project Pride’s ambitious plans of parading right through the middle of the Beltline and having the Street Fair outside next to Connaught School, and refocusing the event as a celebration rather than a political rally, was absolutely correct. The numbers proved it, and continued to do so year after year, despite some pretty god-awful weather.

Despite significant differences in philosophy and points of view, CLAGPAG, and the individuals who comprised its Steering Committee, continued to support Project Pride and their Pride events and were proud of our role in creating them in the first place.

To see what is going on now in some parts of the community fills my heart with pain. This is not what it was supposed to be.

http://www.gaycalgary.com/a1419

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Of course there are issues that need to be addressed and resolved.

No Pride event escapes these things. It is important the issues be discussed in a rational and constructive atmosphere and the temptation to engage in high-school shenanigans resisted.

When, as a member of the Calgary Lesbian and Gay Political Action Guild (CLAGPAG), I and several other members of its Steering Committee created Calgary’s first Pride Rally and March in 1990, we had approximately 150 people attend. Many of them wore paper bags over their heads as it was assumed, correctly, there would be massive media coverage. We at CLAGPAG never envisioned Pride as anything but a celebration of who, and what, we are and had hopes it would eventually evolve into something of which Calgary could be proud.

Certainly, in 1990 there was resistance to having such a “radical” event in Good Ol’ Calgary by some elements within the community, even though Pride events had been held in other centres for 20 years.

We expected that, and respected those whose own fear, internalized homophobia, or just wanting to live their lives without undue attention, caused them to react against it.

The GLBTQ community, as I frequently pointed out to media types who inquired what ”the community” thought about a particular issue, is not a monolithic entity that thinks alike or responds the same way to anything.

Rather, it is a dynamic, evolving community of individuals from a myriad of backgrounds and it is our own life experiences that dictate our perception and responses, or sometimes our reaction, to situations.

That is perfectly normal.

It is easy to forget what it is to be gay, bi, lesbian, trans, queer, or two-spirited when living in a world that, quite often, would just as soon see us dead as not. We are lucky to live in a country like Canada, or a city like Calgary...try being openly gay, bi, lesbian, queer, trans, or twospirited in a small rural community and see what it gets you.

Yet enormous amounts of energy are spent on bickering about who spoke to whom, who was approached to sponsor Pride and who wasn’t and why, who’s included and who isn’t, corporate sponsorship or not, and on and on. An example of a clash of egos and agenda if ever there was one.

We can all be guilty of that, of course. After CLAGPAG handed the torch of putting on Pride Week to what was then Project Pride, there was some reaction when the then-chair of Project Pride announced in a meeting that henceforth the event would be the Calgary Gay and Lesbian Pride Parade and Street Fair, not “Rally and March”. Fair enough.

The reaction occurred when he said, “Pride is about celebration, not politics...” Imagine a group of gay and lesbian activists, firmly in-

GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine #72, October 2009

25

Adult Film Review

Adult Film Review High Tops, Sounding #2

By Jerome Voltero “High Tops” by Raging Stallion Studios, Courtesy of Adult Depot Cast: Qpid Eros, Damien Crosse*, Conner Habib, JT Stryker, Ethan Roberts, Damian Rios*, Alex Eden, Tristan Jaxx, Manuel Deboxer*, Ben Leon

drugs are bad.

The cover depicts Damien Crosse exhaling a wisp of smoke, and naive little me thinks, “Oh, maybe it’s a reference to a smoking fetish.” Well…I guess you could say that. You probably put two and two together faster than I - “High Tops” refers to guys getting high from smoking up, and getting topped. Just remember kids,

In the first scene it appears that Crosse and Qpid Eros, two athletic buddies, have gotten pretty wasted and are stricken by an attack of the munchies. Crosse has his fill and decides to relax on the couch while Eros continues to chow down. But Crosse finds he is getting turned on by watching his buddy. As things get serious, Crosse emerges quite obviously as the top, taking command of his darker skinned friend who seems like he is just along for the ride...and a bumpy ride it is!

Let’s face it. The main reason you’d want to rent this film is for Damien Cross and/or Manuel Deboxer, by far hottest men of the bunch.

Though admittedly, some of the filler is kinda nice too, with fur and tattoos, and even some young and not-so-hairy. If you’re not turned off by the sordid affairs of drug use and grow ops (plus some jumpy editing and some trippy vignettes) then toke a look - I mean - take a look.

“Sounding #2” by FetishForce.com, Courtesy of Priape Cast: Lee Dakota, Luke Montana, Ty Hudson*, Jake Deckard* We reviewed Sounding #1 earlier this year, christening this magazine with its first taste of this unique fetish. Apparently we’re back for more, if not just to see what weird and wonderful things these actors do. Once again, in case you’re not aware, sounding is the act of pushing (sanitized and safe) objects into one’s penis – most commonly a smooth metalic sounding rod. I’m told that one of the attractions of doing this is, when the sounding rod is all the way in, it actually touches your g-spot from the other side.

With a cast of four, more than half are not particularly attractive. Of course, the legendary Jake Deckard is the exception, apparently not afraid of the big bad fetish films. Lee Dakota and Luke Montana have stout and hairy bodies that brandish tattoos, but face-wise didn’t do much for me. Though perhaps what they look like doesn’t make a lick of difference if you’re turned on solely by the fetishes - sounding is the theme, but there are some others thrown in for good measure such as ball torture and (accidental?) water sports. I guess that’s what you get

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GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine #72, October 2009

for sticking a catheter into a full bladder.

First, Dakota demonstrates standard sounding, pushing in the metal rod and letting it slide back out on its own, whilst jacking off. Later on Montana, apparently the seasoned expert, joins in, showing off by sounding himself with the handle on a pair of plyers, and even his pinkie finger! Later we see Montana sounding himself in the dark with a transparent glowing rod shaped like an icicle, that not only lights up his penis internally but also allows you to see inside from the top. It’s like something out of Area 51!

A couple more of my questions about this fetish were answered this time, like what happens if you come with the rod still in, and how having such a wide urethra affects the way you come without any obstructions. Fascinating. Would I try it? Still a little on the fence. Perhaps Sounding #3 will help make up my mind…

http://www.gaycalgary.com/a1420

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Priape Calgary Canada’s Favourite Gay Store 1322 17th Avenue SW - (403) 215-1800 Adult Depot Over 3000 Gay Title for Sale or Rent 140 58th Avenue SW - (403) 258-2777 daiterj@telus.net

Astrology

Q Scopes

“Make connections, Capricorn!”

The Sun in Libra draws us toward reconciliation, but on what grounds? First, Sol aspects Eris and Chiron, highlighting our position and the other side’s; then, he aspects Uranus and Neptune, pitting practicality against ideals. Keeping an open mind while standing your ground can be difficult. Something has to give!



ARIES (March 20 - April 19): You’re now

uncharacteristically open to both sides of any question, but your own deepest desires can surface to sabotage your bi-partisan efforts. Meditation can head that off. Stay true to your ideals despite temptations to compromise.



TAURUS (April 20 - May 20): You worry too

much, even if worrying a little is necessary. Help from those above and ahead of you should be welcomed. Peers and friends may be jealous, but even with good intentions their efforts to help can go awry.



GEMINI (May 21 - June 20): Sports or

competitive games, anything from baseball to backgammon, can stimulate your creative juices. That in turn can bring up questions about your goals and ideals. Even if without answers, the questions are worth investigating.



CANCER (June 21 - July 22): Standing out

as a leader in your community or family may be an uncomfortable fit for you. The attention isn’t important; harnessing the talents of others is. Your efforts will lead you to new insights, probably through surprising arguments. Listen and learn!





LIBRA (September 23 - October 22): Feeling

By Jack Fertig

LEO (July 23 - August 22): Keep it simple,

sunshine! The biggest ideas still fall on basic premises.

Make sure those bases are solid; run them by a friend before you start broadcasting your ideas. Your partner might like some erotic novelties, but needs help saying so.



VIRGO (August 23 - September 22): Of

what value is your GLBT community to you? Ask not what queerdom can do for you, but what you can do for queerdom. Your community service helps you as much as anyone else, and can be a great way to find love.

a little out of sort with your people? Find some new way to have fun together. Invite your soccer team to a movie, or your artsy friends to a game or, better yet, recruit them all for some public service effort.



SCORPIO (October 23 - November 21):

Sometimes you just feel like you don’t fit in anywhere, and it’s fine to just stay home until the mood passes. Time spent with a hobby can be the best therapy.



SAGITTARIUS (November 22 - December 20): At the center of the social whirl, you can bring

together different types of people who wouldn’t normally mix. Don’t let all that detract from responsibilities at home, or you may have rude surprises there!



CAPRICORN (December 21 - January 19): Make connections with important people at work, or in your profession. Your cultural background may seem an obstacle, but something important there does offer a key to getting ahead. Stay open to new ideas, but be careful about expressing them prematurely.



AQUARIUS (January 20 - February 18):

New ideas can challenge long-held premises. Which of those basic ideas do you really believe – and what are just cultural dogmas? Learning to be truer to yourself should provoke some changes in your values.



PISCES (February 19 - March 19): You could

be too sexy for your own good. Desires and opportunities could shake up your self-image. That’s a sign of growth.

Meditate through the confusion for better self-awareness.

Jack Fertig, a professional astrologer since 1977 teaches at the Online College of Astrology : http://www.astrocollege.com.

He can be reached for personal or business consultations at 415-864-8302 or through his website at http://www.starjack.com

GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine #72, October 2009

27

Celebrity Gossip

Deep Inside Hollywood

Manilow takes Stipe and Hanks to the Copacabana

By Romeo San Vicente Manilow takes Stipe and Hanks to the Copacabana The fallout from Mamma Mia! continues, and this time Michael Stipe, Tom Hanks and Barry Manilow are hatching a plan to woo you back into theaters to sing along with 35-year-old songs you only pretend not to love. Stipe and Hanks’s production companies are joining forces to produce a musical film based on Manilow’s biggest hits – and it’s coming soon. No title, no cast, no release date, no nothing just yet, but the plot idea involves a group of Manilow fans who go to Las Vegas and find themselves swept up in a tuneful whirl of non-stop Barry action. Note to the producers: If it winds up set in the 1970s, shoehorn in some of Manilow’s TV commercial jingles from the era. Because who wouldn’t want to hear Meryl Streep sing the KFC “get a bucket of chicken” song?

Photo courtesy RCA Music Group

Tilda Swinton wants to be your new Auntie

Everyone knows that life is a banquet and that most poor suckers are starving to death. And they know this because of the hilarious, beloved movie Auntie Mame. And they know that Mame is – and will always be –forever associated with the late, great Rosalind Russell. But let’s say that someone really, really cool wanted to remake the movie in an aggressively hip, modern way. Let’s say it was Tilda Swinton, someone so talented and idiosyncratic and worshipped by gays already that she is known on the funny fashion-attack Web site GoFugYourself by one all-caps name: SWINTON. Let’s say that it happens like that. It’d be OK – right? Because that’s her plan. And right now it’s just that, a plan. But this is a woman generally to be trusted, so Romeo votes that we all extend that trust. Besides, it’s a better plan than the recently announced Yellow Submarine remake. Way better.

Catherine Deneuve rides The Train Sometimes you just want the comfort of the familiar. You want to sit down in a cushy art-house theater on a rainy Sunday afternoon, and you want to see an old-school French director make a movie with Catherine Deneuve in it, one where you can marvel at her legendary face and manner, the grand dame doing her thing. You’ll soon get your chance when acclaimed filmmaker Andre Techine, the gay creator of modern queer-themed greatness like The Witnesses and Wild Reeds, reunites with Deneuve (together they’ve already worked on the art-house hits Thieves and My Favorite Season) for The Girl on The Train. Deneuve plays the once-radical, now-settled-down mother of a young woman who lies about being the victim of a hate crime. Melodrama ensues. Already released in France, expect the train to pull into its American stop sometime in the coming year.

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GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine #72, October 2009

Ellen’s new part-time job: What’s in it for the gays?

Every single media outlet in the U.S. has weighed in on the perceived appropriateness and/or WTF-ness of Ellen DeGeneres replacing Paula Abdul as a permanent judge on American Idol. Romeo is all for this new development if for no other reason than Ellen can probably help bring cooler choreography for those frequently tragic results-show group-sing numbers. But so far very few pundits have addressed the burning issue of what this all means for the gays.

For example: Would Adam Lambert have won with Ellen’s official judge support behind him? Will we witness the welcome death of the endlessly hilarious (to them anyway) gay-baiting jokes between Simon and Seacrest? And will there finally be a softly butch, Tracy Chapman-esque, female singer-songwriter who makes it to the top 10 thanks to “velvet mafia” cheerleading?

No matter what happens, suddenly the show seems like must-watch TV again.

Romeo San Vicente is idolized by lots of men for a host of unprintable reasons. He can be reached care of this publication or at DeepInsideHollywood@qsyndicate.com.

Lifestyle

Cocktail Chatter

Farm-Fresh Cocktails and Gay Bars versus Great Cocktails

By Camper English

Farm-Fresh Cocktails Filling my bag with fresh fruits, veggies, and herbs at the farmer’s market or produce aisle of the grocery store, smelling the winter citrus and autumn spices, and planning out the menu for the week ahead: It’s enough to make a person really thirsty.

Innovative mixologists across the country have become obsessed with putting food ingredients into drink form, giving us Bacon Bloody Marys, Avocado Daiquiris, and Pumpkin Cocktails. They’re also working hard on putting drinks in food form, from Liquid Nitrogen Caipirinhas to Gin and Tonic Gelatin to Deconstructed Negronis. But getting your recommended serving of fruits and veggies served in a glass can be a lot easier than all that.

The simplest way to drink your produce is to mash it up and suck it down. Citrus fruit like oranges, grapefruit, lemons, and limes makes for easy juicing, but you can also muddle a lot of juice out of other produce like pears, nectarines, peaches, plums, apricots, kiwi, pineapples, and grapes. Just chop them up (removing any large pits), drop them into the bottom of a mixing glass, and start smashing away with your muddler.

wrong - but complicated cocktails are another story. The simple mixed drinks like vodka cranberry, vodka tonic, vodka soda, and the like when they’re served in gay bars tend to be stronger in alcohol content, less expensive, and served faster by better looking bartenders than in straight bars. This part I like very much.

The part I don’t like so much is that usually the only cocktails beyond a Martini and (sometimes) Manhattan that gay bar bartenders seem to be able to make is the Cosmopolitan and the Apple Martini.

Those drinks were fine for a time but after six or seven hundred of them one’s tongue may want to wander towards something different or new or at least something invented within the last decade.

We are in a new golden era of cocktails made with fresh ingredients, homemade bitters, spicy syrups, and floral liqueurs, yet the drinks being served in gay bars became popular when Sex in the City was still a television series rather than a series of movies. The only good news is that the cocktails are so dated that soon they’ll be retro.

To be fair, the vast majority of bars in America aren’t making the couture cocktails of my dreams with hand-carved ice cubes, rare Indonesian rum, and fresh-picked kumquats either. But I still hold out hope that my gay sisters and brothers will hop on the haute cocktail bandwagon sooner rather than later. We’re supposed to be a trendy people.

To build a drink around fresh muddled produce, add some vodka to the mixing glass and a sweetener, then shake it with ice and strain it into a new glass. Fill with ice and soda water and you’ve got a farmfresh vodka soda. This procedure is almost the same as making lemonade (with vodka), so you shouldn’t need to write down the recipe.

Another trend is the prevalence of competitive cooking reality shows, and those are just chock full of gays. Who knew there were so many queer chefs? I suppose it’s the same with gay mixologists. They do exist, and there are more than a few of them, but they just don’t work in gay bars where their talent would be wasted.

About that sweetener- if you’re just adding orange juice to a vodka soda you may not need any, but most tart and acidic citrus and other fruit will need a sweetening component for proper balance. By the way, this is the trick to making many cocktails: balancing sweetness with acidity. Understand that and you’ll go far, young bartender.

Perhaps that’s my fault and yours too, leaving the gay bar talent untested. Maybe if we asked the bartenders (nicely) for more complicated and delicious cocktails they would learn to make them for us. We’ll have to do this at times when the bar isn’t very busy so the bartenders have the time to indulge us, but maybe if we start bringing in relatively simple, new cocktail recipes they’ll learn to make these drinks for us.

There are many sweetening options to chose from, including homemade simple syrup (equal parts sugar and water), honey, or a liqueur like triple sec, the sweetener that balances the lime in a Margarita.

As this is a column about putting fresh produce into your drinks, I also suggest you put it into your sweetener. Heat equal parts sugar and water then remove it from heat and toss in fresh herbs like mint, basil, lemongrass, or cilantro. Be sure not to burn them or your syrup will taste wilted instead of wonderful. You can also make spicy syrups with hot peppers or ginger, or simmer dried spices like black peppercorns, allspice, cinnamon, and vanilla.

At worst we’ll be rebuffed and this plan will fail, but at best we’ll slowly improve the qualities of cocktails in gay bars, one bartender at a time.

http://www.gaycalgary.com/a1423

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Camper English is a cocktails and spirits writer and publisher of Alcademics.com.

For all syrups, stir the ingredients for several minutes to an hour to extract all the flavor you can. Then strain out any solids and store the syrup in the refrigerator where it will keep for several weeks. With homemade farm-fresh syrup on hand, you’ll always have the ingredients to put produce into your diet, even if you’re on a liquid diet for the night.

Gay Bars versus Great Cocktails Though I spend what many would consider an inordinate amount of time in bars, less and less of this time is spent in gay bars. My issue is not with the gays, of course, nor even with gay bars per se.

Between dance bars, biker bars, piano bars, cruise bars, rock-androll bars, bear bars, drag bars, sports bars, and neighborhood bars, I think you can usually find the gay bar that suits your mood at any time of the week. What you can’t find, however, is a decent cocktail.

You can find a decent mixed drink in a gay bar - don’t get me

GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine #72, October 2009

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Community Spotlight

Gears and Queers

Good Life Bikes - Making Cycling More Accessible

By Sam Casselman Driving is expensive, traffic is intense, and the environment is hurting...but what can you do about it?

The Good Life Community Bike Shop can help, with their Gears and Queers workshop, “an introductory bike mechanics workshop in an all queer environment.”

Britt Aberle, a member of The Good Life family and an instructor for Gears and Queers wants the queer community to know about this workshop. “At our last queer workshop, I asked people if they had known prior to Good Life’s participation in 2009’s Pride Calgary events that we were a queer positive organization. People said no. They suggested that we start getting our name out there with other queer positive/queer organizations.” Being a part of Pride Calgary 2009 was obviously a good start, and Aberle hopes this positive publicity continues.

The Good Life Community Bike Shop is a non-profit, community run bicycle repair and education centre located in Eau Claire Market. It is a free space where anyone can learn to maintain their bikes by means of building, repairing through

workshops and volunteer participation. There are programs to suit all individuals including earn-a-bike programs for homeless or low income individuals, women-only workshops, and educational programs for young people. If you are looking for a bike, and not wanting to spend an excessive amount of money, they also have a bicycle reusing program and bike recycling depot. Serving over 2100 members, the business it is also celebrating its one year anniversary.

Starting with only a small community grant, The Good Life Community Bike Shop, run solely by volunteers, has become a major destination for many biking enthusiasts. Proudly claiming to have diverted more than 600 bikes from the waste stream to be reused and recycled, it has continued to be a leading organization in the green movement. These volunteers are also donating their time to what they believe in, and community support and participation is the only way to continue the progress they have made.

The Gears and Queers workshop is one of Good Life’s answers to creating a safe space for everyone – an all queer environment facilitated by all queer staff. These workshops will run bi-monthly, on a “mutual-aid basis”. According to Aberle this means that they support “community members through helping people build their skills with bikes, and offering the use of our bike workshop space – people in the community support the Good Life through donations and volunteer work. Often people volunteer one hour to attend a workshop or give $5-$20 depending on what people can afford.”

“People can expect to learn some basic bike mechanics skills.

At the beginning of each workshop, we do an introduction that includes asking people what they want to learn. Workshop content is dependent on what people want to learn. Some of the common basics people learn are: how to fix a flat tire, how to adjust brakes and gears, and how to check a bike over to see if it is safe to ride. Having fun and meeting new people is a big focus of these workshops.”

It is not necessary to bring your bike to these workshops however you are welcome to do so if you wish. Anyone who identifies as queer is able to attend these workshops, and of course, visit the Good Life Community Bike Shop at any time.

Free snacks are also provided!

The Good Life Community Bike Shop has accumulated their membership of 2100 individuals in only one year - it is obviously catching on, and may be worth your time to check out.

Through participation and support in organizations like this, you are taking steps toward a better city and world.

http://www.gaycalgary.com/a1424

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The Good Life Community Bike Shop

 Mon–Sat: 10-6 pm, Sun: 12-5pm  Eau Claire Market 2nd Avenue and 2nd Street SW Gears and Queers

 Next Meeting: October 21st, 7-9pm  Britt@goodlifebikes.ca 30

GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine #72, October 2009

Spirituality

Reaching OUT

Affirming Ministries of Calgary and Edmonton

By Dallas Barnes “It is our hope that these learning opportunities will provide a forum for the community to engage issues of faith and inclusiveness in a safe and supportive environment. All are welcome to come, learn, network, and grow.”

I remember going to church when I was little. I remember it being a safe place, and I remember learning about the connection of earth and people, and how we were all the same, regardless of who we are or where we came from. As I grew older, I began to understand that in the eyes of some churches we were in fact not all the same. In fact, many times I have been told that I am not welcome in Heaven, and that I was a living sin. I have never felt personally attacked by these claims however, only sad for those that believed them. As a means of dealing with this ignorance and hatred I have learned to applaud those of faith that are working towards fighting it.

Throughout my years of attending Pride Parades I have taken the time to clap a little louder for those churches that join the festivities, and sit a little prouder in the audience knowing that my religious friends are cheering right along with me. I am surrounded by friends that go to church, and am glad to answer any questions they may have about our community. I have friends that have maintained their faith regardless of their sexual orientation, and I am so charmed by their continual truth to themselves. I am still aware of how the ideals of many churches infringe on human rights, but I choose to focus on those that are working to change that. It is with this in mind that I question my own faith.

Making things a little easier for us, and opening the door to communication, Affirming Churches of Calgary and Edmonton are facilitating the 4th Annual Learning Affirming Conference, entitled Reaching OUT: We’re ALL in the Closet Together!, held at Symons Valley United Church.

“Open and Affirming (ONA) is an official designation of congregations and other bodies within the United Church of Christ denomination, affirming the full inclusion of gays, lesbians, bisexuals, and transgendered persons (LGBT) in life and ministry of that church body.” There are 6 United Church Affirming Ministries in Calgary - this process has taken about 20 years to complete. Pat

Brownlee, member of the Affirm United Board has been a major force in this process. “It took Scarboro Church about 4 years before we completed the process of education and open forums for members to become educated on GLBT issues. We had our formal celebration in October 2008 and had a full church and expanded joint church choir with the Calgary Men’s Chorus in attendance.

Each church moves with a different drummer, and Hillhurst Sunnyside quickly went through their process. The last step is a motion put forward at an Annual General meeting. There was a joyful celebration this spring when they formally put rainbow flags outside the church front entry. “ The two day Reaching OUT conference not only addresses some basic understandings of the GLBT community and the Church in short sessions, but it also brings together some familiar faces in the GLBT community. Heterophobia, a play recently shown at the IGNITE festival this year to sold out crowds, will be kicking off the conference on Friday, October 23rd at 7:30pm. This one-act play described as a “tall glass of gay with a twist of straight” questions our thought process of the gay/straight paradigm. Pam Rocker, Heterophobia playwright could not be more excited about this conference.

“When Pat Brownlee [Affirm United] approached me about doing Heterophobia for their annual conference, I was shocked and pleasantly surprised. To have a faith-based group seek out and want to showcase a story that deals with homosexuality and discrimination still surprises me, although I am happily becoming more aware of people of faith who think so much differently than what would be considered ‘traditional’. Sexuality and spirituality don’t have to be at odds, and I sincerely respect not only the words, but the actions of organizations like Affirm United. They are making a tangible stance against intolerance and will accept nothing less than full inclusion. To have the chance to share Heterophobia once again is an honour that I cherish because it’s about the freedom to be proud of and truthful about who we really are.”

Other short sessions include former Gay Calgary and Edmonton Magazine columnist, Dr. Kevin Alderson as a Keynote Speaker, discussions of transsexual issues, Youth Safe, Congregational Support of Queer Families, PFLAG, The U of C’s Queers on Campus, and Constable Lynn MacDonald of the CPS Diversity Unit.

Rounding this out is a performance by the Calgary Men’s Chorus.

Regardless of your affiliation with any church, or your level of faith, Affirmation is important to the GLBT community. Progression and opening the lines of communication between previously divided groups is a welcome sign to acceptance.

http://www.gaycalgary.com/a1425

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Reaching OUT: We’re All in this Closet Together!

 October 23rd - 24th, 2009  Symons Valley United Church 38 Kincora Rise NW, Calgary  403-274-2361  affirmeventsalberta@gmail.com $30 if registering by Friday, October 9th, $45 if registering October 10th or later.

GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine #72, October 2009

31

Trans Identity

A History of Gender Variance in Expression and Identity Part 6B: Toward the Future (2007 - 2009)

By Mercedes Allen This month we finish off this series by discussing developments in the past two years, leading to the present.

2007 - The rock-star character of “Zarf,” who debuted on the soap opera “All My Children” near the end of 2006, comes out as a male-tofemale transsexual, Zoey. Although this isn’t the first time a soap opera featured a transgender character in a recurring role, it is the first to feature an MTF character in the beginning of her transition, and follow the process along (and second only to “The L Word” to feature a transsexual throughout the process). Rather than alienate AMC’s viewership, the character of Zoey appears to have re-energized it.

40-year-old Chanda Musalman, who lives as both man and woman and has not had any GRS surgery, is granted both male and female citizenship by Nepali authorities. This is the first known case of dual-gender recognition. It is unclear how this unique legal status will play out in practice - for instance, how it will affect Chanda’s marriage rights, or how it will be recognized in other countries.

The Supreme Court of Canada refuses to hear Kimberly Nixon v. Rape Relief, a case in which a transwoman was dismissed from training for rape counseling because she was not born female (she had been living as female several years, had surgery and is legally female). Because it was refused at that level, the B.C. Court of Appeal ruling against her still stands - a ruling which pointed out that transgender people are not currently protected by the Human Rights Charter under either category of “gender” or “sexual orientation.” This is later used as the pretext for the opening of Lu’s: A Pharmacy for Women in Vancouver, where transwomen are deliberately refused entry and where the controversy continues at the time of writing.

A 12-year old in Vienna, Austria is thought to be the youngest person in the world to undergo GRS. The city of Largo, Florida fires long-time City Manager Steve Stanton, after he is outed during preparation to announce his intention to undergo hormone treatment and start the process toward GRS surgery.

This launches a nationally-publicized court case, in which the City of Largo is revealed to have operated counter to their own laws, which prohibit discrimination based on gender identity. In order to save face, the City attempts to first claim that city employees had lost faith in Stanton, and then (in the failure of that) dredge up performance issues, despite their overwhelming support, praise and raises given to Stanton prior to the firing.

ment, is found guilty in a medical community investigation of accusations that he inappropriately treated five patients, allegedly fast-tracking them, in contravention of established standards of care.

Although not the first time a doctor has been brought under fire or threat of legal action for his work (some had even been sued by their transgender patients), the high-profile case reopens major debates in the medical community about transsexuality and its treatment.

The Matthew Shepard Act, an anti-hate-crimes bill, is introduced and achieves some success in both Congress and the Senate, but is scuttled

by Senators’ protests over the attachment of the bill to a military spending bill, a strategy which was initiated in hopes of avoiding a Presidential veto from George W. Bush.

The Employment Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA) stirs up even more controversy when, at the eleventh hour before the bill is introduced to Congress, “gender identity” and “gender expression” are dropped from the bill. This legislation originally sought to add protections for gay and transgender people across the US, and the act of abandonment is seen by many as a dark hour in the trans movement.

But in reaction to the bill’s sponsor, congressman Barney Frank, and a history of assumptions by legislators that perceptions of transfolk might hurt the GLBT community as a whole, organizations from across North America band together, forming UnitedENDA - a coalition of nearly 370 organizations wishing to send a strong protest against the exclusion and pledging to persist in only supporting legislation that is transgender-inclusive. There is one notable exception, the Human Rights Campaign (HRC), one of the largest GLB organizations in America (which already had a long history of trans exclusion, with one former director once declaring that trans inclusion would happen “over my dead body”). But HRC’s defense of the exclusive ENDA would erode its support and credibility significantly.

ENDA ultimately failed to pass, but the debate reignited the LGBT community’s trans-supportive and trans-exclusive factions. However, the divisions that happened in the years following Stonewall also seemed to be narrowing significantly. While writers like John Aravosis and Chris Crain would persist in questioning whether transgender people should be included in gay activism or even considered allies, mutual respect and coexistence proved more prevalent, with many local GLB organizations coming to the conclusion that they would love to help the transgender community... as long as there’s help in understanding what its needs are. Additionally, awareness grew from this controversy about “gender expression,” which, while a transgender issue, also affects many “effeminate” gay men and “butch” lesbians, as well as heterosexual persons who fall afoul of societal gender expectations.

Spain passes the most progressive law regarding Gender Identity in the world, allowing for the change of documented identity just by proving a medical treatment for two years, and a medical or psychological certificate, proving a diagnosis of gender dysphoria - not requiring surgery. This outdoes the UK’s Gender Recognition Act by not requiring divorce prior to transition.

2008 - Artist, actor, filmmaker, farmer, teacher and writer Erica Rutherford passes away in Charlottetown PEI. Rutherford is one of Canada’s best-known transsexual achievers, whose story is told in the CBC documentary, “Nine Lives”. In 1999, she was admitted to the Royal Canadian Academy. Her career illuminated many ways in which art and other achievements by women are received, as compared to similar achievements by men.

UCLA scientists find 54 genes that may explain the different organization of male and female brains. They go on to state that “...gender identity likely will be explained by some of the genes we discovered.”

Female-to-male transsexual Thomas Beatie explodes into the public consciousness as “the pregnant man,” having stopped hormone therapy mid-transition in order to bear a child because his wife could not.

In Fresno, California, Tony (Cinthia) Covarrubias runs for Prom King, supported by a state law passed in 2000 protecting students’ ability to express their gender identity on campus. Covarrubias loses, but approximately one month later, her story lends a groundswell of support when Johnny Vera runs for and wins the title of Prom Queen at Roosevelt High School - the first transgender person known to have won such an honor.

While not the first person to do so (FTM pregnancies were noted as far back as 10 years ago from a man named Dylan in Germany and also Patrick Califia’s partner Matt Rice), Beatie’s appearances on Oprah and People Magazine galvanize the issue in the public eye nearly as vividly as what happened when Christine Jorgenson was first noted to have changed her sex. A year later, a Spanish transman would become pregnant with twins, but miscarry. This event brings transsexuality under the spotlight, signaling to the far right that the time was apt to bring anti-trans sentiment to the fore. The pregnancy announcement inspires

Dr. Russell Reid, a UK psychiatrist specializing in gender reassign-

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GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine #72, October 2009

Trans Identity some unusual political actions, such as a proposed law in Sweden that would require transsexuals to be sterilized before beginning transition.

It also sparks divisions between transgender modes of thinking, between “old-guard” ideas that had evolved into “Harry Benjamin Syndrome” (HBS), “Womyn Born Transsexual” (WBT) and other gender binary concepts versus “deconstructionist” thought growing from third-wave feminism, genderqueer concepts and people who question the male-female gender binary such as activist, author and performance artist Kate Bornstein. Debates rage about transsexuals who are “real” and who are not, with some arguing that no “real” FTM transsexual would choose to give birth. It also feeds some of the growing disillusion in the transsexual community generated by the feeling of erasure - that inclusion in the larger transgender umbrella has obscured transsexual-specific needs and uniqueness.

The Lahore High Court in Pakistan rules in favour of allowing Gender Reassignment Surgery.

Visitor to Japan, Mary Murdoch, becomes the first transsexual to be accepted and trained as geisha.

Dr. Kenneth Zucker, a therapist at Toronto’s Centre for Addictions and Mental Health (CAMH, formerly known as the Clarke Institute) and notorious for his reparative therapy treatments used on transgender children and adolescents, is chosen by the American Psychiatric Association to lead the team to revise the diagnoses of Sexual and Gender Disorders in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM) “bible” of the psychiatric community. Mentor, former CAMH department head and creator of the theory of Autogynephilia Ray Blanchard is named to lead the Paraphilias sub-workgroup which includes the diagnosis of “Transvestitic Fetish.” The infusion of controversial Clarke-Northwestern figures (which also includes J. Michael Bailey, Anne Lawrence and others) to shape the diagnosis and potential treatment of transsexuals spurs widespread controversy in the trans community and sparks an outcry for “Gender Identity Disorder” to be delisted from the DSM. Stu Rasmussen becomes the first openly transgender mayor in Silverton, Oregon. Rasmussen is notable in that he still identifies as male, but has had breast augmentation and presents fully as female.

Rasmussen had previously been a popular mayor of the town, but had taken a hiatus to change his presentation before returning to the public eye.

At this time of writing, though, those divisions are not complete, and many transactivists call for people to avoid the mistakes of the past.

There is some growing sentiment for a distinguishing between transsexual and other transgender populations simply by virtue of the unique needs of the former and fears of erasure of those by inclusion under an umbrella term, which is seen by many as an acceptable exception. As the GLB community becomes receptive to assisting its trans allies, the question arises: are transfolk willing to show enough unity in order to help themselves?

The next chapter, of course, is yet to be written.

Partial Bibliography: Much of this had been compiled over time, and not all the sources have been recorded. Some online sources have been involved as well, although I search for more corroboration in these cases.

Bullough, Vern: Homosexuality: A History From Ancient Greece to Gay Liberation Califia, Patrick: Sex Changes: The Politics of Transgenderism Colapinto, John: As Nature Made Him: The Story of a Boy Who Was Raised as a Girl Currah, Paisley; Richard M. Juang and Shannon Price Minter: Transgender Rights Feinberg, Leslie: TransGender Warriors Fletcher, Lynne Yamaguchi: The First Gay Pope (and other records) Kessler, Suzanne; and McKenna, Wendy: Gender: An Ethnomethodological Approach Rudacille, Deborah: The Riddle of Gender Walker, Barbara: various works Williams, Walter: The Spirit and the Flesh

http://www.gaycalgary.com/a1426

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Mercedes Allen is a writer who blogs at http://dentedbluemercedes.wordpress. com/, has been featured on bilerico.com, PageOneQ and others, and has also developed the website at AlbertaTrans.org as a resource for transgender information and support.

2009 - Early transitioner Angela Morley passes away. Morley, a three-time Emmy winner and two-time Oscar nominee for film and television music, transitioned in 1972 and contributed orchestrations to “Dallas,” “Dynasty,” “Falcon Crest,” “Wonder Woman” and other shows as well as the motion pictures “Star Wars,” “Superman,” “E.T.,” and “Schindler’s List.”

German pop singer Kim Petras grabs international attention by undergoing Gender Reassignment Surgery at the age of 16. Also, 77-Yearold Renee Ramsey becomes the oldest-known person to undergo GRS. Kitty Gabriele is arrested in Italy and identified as the first-known high-ranking transsexual mafia “capo,” or godfather.

The Province of Alberta delists health care coverage of GRS, followed by a declaration by the NDP government of Manitoba stating that it would not be funding the procedure. These events highlight the deliberate exclusions made by insurance companies worldwide, despite the fact that the medical establishment considers GRS a necessary procedure and that it impacts lives in significant ways that no other elective “cosmetic” procedure does. The Health Care coverage debate would mushroom into a major furore when right-wing organizations whip up the fear that Democrat-proposed universal health care in the US would likely result in coverage of GRS, as a tactic to try to kill the proposal.

Virginia Prince passes away. While one of the first activists in modern transgender history, Prince was also a polarizing figure and center of divisions in trans spheres (she coined the word “transgender” to mean only male-bodied crossdressers who were attracted to women, at the deliberate exclusion of everyone else).

As the divisions between GLB and trans communities and between feminists and transfemales dissolved, divisions within the enormously diverse transgender community developed - perhaps a sign of the growing awareness of and freedom of self-identification for trans people.

Patterns emerge within the transgender community itself that appear to be harbingers of division, as people seek to distinguish and distance themselves from each other, not having learned the lessons of the damages the trans community had suffered at the hands of others.

GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine #72, October 2009

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Fundraising Photos AFQOL Disco Party at the Backlot - Calgary

AFQOL Cut-a-thon

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GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine #72, October 2009

Fundraising Photos Scotiabank AIDS Walk for Life - Calgary

GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine #72, October 2009

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Fundraising Photos Scotiabank AIDS Walk for Life - Edmonton

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GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine #72, October 2009

Fundraising Photos SHARP Fundraiser at Beatniq - Calgary

ISCCA Turnabout Show at Calgary Eagle

4th Annual Great Chili Cook-off at Calgary Eagle

GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine #72, October 2009

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Interest

Queeries

The Great Oral Sex Dilemma: Swallow or Spit?

By Steven Petrow The Great Oral Sex Dilemma: Swallow or Spit?

What do you do when a guy unloads in your mouth? It’s an age-old predicament and one with no simple answer. Of course, it makes a big difference how well you know the guy. An anonymous trick is not the same as a boyfriend who is not the same as your husband. But communication and planning will get you through this sticky situation every time.

Even if you feel embarrassed talking about sex (especially with someone new), discuss your preferences beforehand. If you’re the shooter, ask your friend if it’s okay to ejaculate in his mouth and, in any case, give a little warning before you do (“Hey, I’m about to shoot!”) Similarly, let your partner know if you plan on spitting it out-or if you don’t want him spilling in your mouth at all.

Whatever you decide, if you’re expecting a mouthful, follow the Boy Scout motto: Be prepared. By that I mean, think ahead about what exactly you’re going to do with this “load” and make the proper arrangements beforehand. If you know you’re going to spit it out, it’s a good idea to have a box of tissues or a hand towel at your side.

If you’re planning to swallow, make sure you have a glass of water nearby.

The safest practice, of course, is to use a condom (yes, even with oral sex). HIV risk is believed to be very low from this particular activity but lots of other STDs are easily transmitted through oral sex. In fact, if you happen to know that you or your partner has an STD, you should not have unprotected oral sex under any circumstance

Silent Girlfriend

yond sex?” and “Are you willing to risk your friendship if the romance fails?” In a perfect world, you would each have explored these questions before things got physical. But hey, that’s life.

Assuming you want to move forward, call him or email and say simply: “We need to talk.” Then, you’ll want to explain how you feel and what your hopes are. Ask if he knows what he wants from your relationship. Even if he doesn’t want to move beyond friends, initiating this conversation gives him an opportunity to talk about it with you.

If you find you’re not on the same page, you may be able to salvage your friendship if stay open and honest with each other. But that’s hard. Been there. Done that.

How to have a successful lesbian potluck?

Q: I hate to be a stereotype, but I╒m going to have a lesbian potluck next month. It’s the food that has me worried, though. The last time I did this, I wound up with several different versions of lentil salad, no main courses, and no ingenuity. How can I get my friends to do better?

A: Well, you can get them to do better by doing better yourself. Get organized. By that, I mean give out assignments. One way is to divide your guest list alphabetically with one group bringing appetizers and salads (you might tell this team jokingly, “let’s skip the lentil salad this year”), another main dishes, and the last, desserts. Maybe you can provide the beverages yourself.

And the next time you’re a potluck guest? Inquire whether anyone coming has special dietary considerations – perhaps someone is vegan or lactose intolerant or has celiac disease, for example. (If you yourself have special needs, be sure to bring something that you can eat and let your host know beforehand so there are no worries.)

I’m loud when we have sex and like to tell my girlfriend how much I love her, but she never makes a sound or says a word. After we’re done, she just turns over and goes to sleep. I always enjoy the sex we have, but I never know what she thinks. How do I find out?

Potluck guests should also avoid making their dish at the host’s house, even if it’s just a salad. All the prep work should be done at home, except perhaps for reheating a dish right before serving.

Ask her! Sex often makes us so uncomfortable that we forget the easiest way to get to the bottom of a problem is to talk about it. So, yes, ask her about her feelings or her sexual enjoyment- or prompt her a bit more slyly by telling her something like, “Hey, that was amazing sex.” (You may want to wait till morning if you can’t catch her in the moments before her post-coital doze.)

Q: It’s said that in the lesbian and gay community, “we are an army of lovers and ex-lovers.” How do you handle invites, seating arrangements, etc., when you know that so many of the guests are former lovers - and you want to invite them all?

On the other hand, don’t forget about all the other forms of communication besides words: Is she passionate? Does she seem engaged and like she’s enjoying herself? Pay attention to the nonverbal cues.

Maybe she’s just not a very talkative person or is tired after a long day. She may already be telling you how great you are in her own way.

When friends have sex Last week I ended up having sex with my best friend. At least he used to be my best friend--we haven’t talked since. Did I mess up?

I definitely don’t want to lose our friendship, but I don’t know how to put the genie back in the bottle. Does that mean we should be boyfriends?

Slow down. Before you plan the rest of your life together or, conversely, prepare for Armageddon, you’re going to have to do some thinking and talking. Best friends sometimes make the best lovers; after all, they know you so well and share your trust and affection.

But the decision to take a friendship to the next level is tricky- and you can’t do it alone.

First, you’ll need to ask yourself: “What do you want out of this be-

Guess who’s coming to dinner? Your ex!

A: Indeed, what they say is true. I remember being unpleasantly shocked at a birthday party for my former boyfriend Victor to see all four of his other exes in attendance. At one point, the five of us were even corralled into a group photo. Flash! Posterity recorded. What Victor hadn’t counted on was that we would talk - talk about him - and since we were all history, as they say, we had a lot of pent-up dish. By night’s end, the entire party was referring to our merry little band as “Victor’s Victims.” Probably not what Victor had in mind.

Back to your question! First of all, as a host, you need to think of your guests comfort. Just because you want to invite them all, doesn’t mean you should. Masked or unmasked bitterness, rage or jealousy can quickly tank the best of parties. But if you’re committed to this potentially prickly guest list, be transparent. You don’t need to tell each guest who among their exes will be present, but if they ask, fess up. Then, it’s every man and woman for him or herself. Some will simply not show, but at least the others know what they’re getting into.

Likewise, if you’re having trouble choosing between two separated lovers, feel free to invite them both. Let them choose to attend or not.

Or the exes can decide between themselves what’s appropriate. But again, if asked whether the other is invited or attending, say what you know.

Continued on Page 40  38

GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine #72, October 2009

Sports

The OutField

Out and Under the Radar

By Dan Woog In 2000, a Bloomsburg University football teammate asked Brian Sims a question he’d half-expected for years: “Are you gay?”

Yes, the 6-foot, 260-pound defensive tackle replied.

The result was … nothing.

Well, that’s not completely true. Several teammates wanted to make sure Sims felt OK emotionally. As the word of Sims’ sexuality spread, a 6-foot-3-inch, 350-pound teammate sobbed, worried that at some point in the past he offended Sims. And when some players, drinking at a bar, heard someone else deriding “two fags on a date” – Sims and his boyfriend were eating nearby – they tossed the guy out the door.

But that was it. There were no team meetings. There was no publicity. Life continued as usual at the state school in northcentral Pennsylvania.

No, that’s not completely true either. The 2000 season was a bit unusual. The Huskies went 12-2, and reached the final game of the NCAA Division II national championship. It was a season to remember. But players and fans remember it today because of what the team accomplished on the field – not because of who dated whom off it.

Nearly a decade later, Sims has moved on with his life. He’s gaining notice as a lawyer. He’s a leader in the battle to add sexual orientation to Pennsylvania’s hate crimes legislation.

Athletically, he’s moved from the gridiron to running marathons.

Recently, he completed his first ultra-marathon: 50 miles in 24 hours.

Recalling the moment his teammate asked that portentous question, Sims says: “I wasn’t completely oblivious to the fact that the guys I lived with, and knew so well, would put the pieces together. I was never frightened of ‘the question.’ I knew someday I’d have to face it, but I’d never practiced what I would say. The first time I was asked, it was the first time I thought about how I’d answer.”

His teammates, he says, handled the revelation “much better than I’d given them credit for. In hindsight, I realize they were ready to be supportive.”

In hindsight too he wishes he’d come out earlier. However, he says, “I have no regrets. I have a great coming out story, in an area of the country people may not expect it.”

how could I not be a feminist?! They knew I believed in the importance of tolerance and diversity, long before I came out.

“Despite our differences, we’d been through a lot together. Going through football camp is like pledging a fraternity every year. We had a lot in common, so this just wasn’t a big deal.”

Sims never asked anyone to be quiet about his sexuality, but the team was making its championship bid, so what might have been big news elsewhere faded into the background.

After graduation, Sims headed to Michigan State University and law school. He practiced disability insurance law and started his own firm. Today, though, he’s following his true passion.

Sims has a high-level job with the Philadelphia Bar Association – and is also chair of Gay and Lesbian Lawyers of Philadelphia, president of Equality Advocates of Pennsylvania and a fellow at the Center for Progressive Leadership.

Thanks in part to his positive experience at Bloomsburg, he is a positive advocate for change. “I don’t have a chip on my shoulder,” he notes. “I’m able to use the collaborative action that worked so well in football to get various organizations to come together to try to make progress.”

His leadership in the gay rights arena has helped him make important contacts – and led to intriguing offers. This summer he was asked to throw out the first pitch at a Phillies game.

“I can’t throw a baseball to save my life,” Sims laughs. “But I practiced, and I got it across the plate. I was more nervous for that than I was for the bar exam.”

But when the talk turns toward gay civil rights – or gay athletes – Sims turns serious.

Asked to describe his legacy, Sims counters: “I’m 30 years old.

That’s way too young to have a legacy. Ask me in 20 years.

Interestingly, though, Sims thinks that being on a very good football team, in a football-crazy state, may explain the low-key, positive reaction.

“Being an out football player was great. I’m proud of it, and so are my 125 teammates. But I get plenty of e-mails from people who can’t be out. It’s still a problem for gay athletes.

“That’s what a team is all about: supporting everyone on it,” he explains.

“At some point, though, it won’t be,” he promises. “And it will happen sooner than most people think.”

“I’d be lying if I didn’t say that part of the reason (for his teammates’ quick acceptance) was because I was good – a three-year starter, a leader.

Dan Woog is a journalist, educator, soccer coach, gay activist, and author of the “Jocks” series of books on gay male athletes. Visit his Web site at www.danwoog.com.

“But everyone knew me well too. They knew I was a liberal, a Democrat, a feminist – my mother’s a colonel in the army,

http://www.gaycalgary.com/a1429

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GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine #72, October 2009

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Community Spotlight

GLBT Housing

“A plan to take all that talk to the next level.”

By Sam Casselman For the last decade, mature Calgarians (40+) in the GLBT community have been discussing the formation of a place to go where they “feel safe and have a sense of community.” GLBT Housing, a group whose mission is to “engage the GLBT community in discussions that will form the basis of future developments of GLBT housing in Western Canada,” is taking action to see this goal through to fruition.

Connie Loveday, a member of GLBT Housing is optimistic about the concept. “For more than a decade folks like us have been throwing around this notion at dinner parties, over coffee, between lovers and friends, and finally GLBT Housing is doing something about it. After much debate, and in consultation with professionals in the industry, GLBT Housing has come up with a plan to take all that talk to the next level. GLBT Housing has spent the past few months developing a phased approach to making this concept a reality.”

Currently in the middle of Phase 1, the project is determining what and how much the community is willing to spend on housing. It is also a phase that will let individuals know that this project has begun, and will be underway in 5 years.

Phase 2 will be where the public comes in. GLBT Housing has launched a web survey aimed at collecting data to determine what the community wants, available on their website.

Basing their survey on other similar initiatives from Plum Living in Vancouver and RainbowVision in Santa Fe, they hope to “collect qualitative and quantitative data that will tell us things like: the number of people we have reached, the type of development, [etc.]”

Sponsors Sandra Sebree and Marnie Campbell, a real estate lawyer and real estate agent respectively, will be giving out a $400.00 Visa gift certificate to a lucky web survey participant.

The survey will be available until April 2010.

Once all of the data has been completed, there will be a series of focus groups put on to determine development plans.

Looking forward, GLBT Housing hopes to develop a community which contains a community centre, fitness facility, pub, dance hall, and rooms for group classes. Other ideas include off-leash dog parks, lakes, and BBQ facilities. These ideas have all sprouted from the public, and by participation in the survey, your ideas could become a reality.

According to Loveday, “our main objective is to find out if there is enough SERIOUS interest – including financial – to approach builder(s). Doing the research, first a survey and then focus groups, should bring us (everyone who is seriously interested) together so that we can take the next step forward, working on exactly what it is we want to develop.” It is important she believes, to start at the beginning and ask questions.

She hopes to get 100 people to make an initial investment which can range from $1000 down to 10% of purchase price.

“From there, we intend to have a development plan that those 100 people are comfortable with, have an architect design a model and then take it to a builder. Realistically, this could all

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happen within 2 years and we could be breaking ground in 3 years!”

With an “initial purpose to develop full service community housing specifically designed to meet the needs of the maturing GLBT population”, the GLBT Housing project is well on its way to serving the needs of the maturing GLBT community in Calgary. Without the participation of the public however, these needs cannot be met.

http://www.gaycalgary.com/a1430

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GLBT Housing  info@glbthousing.ca

 www.glbthousing.ca

 Queeries - From Page 38 As for seating arrangements, you’ve got to be kidding. You can’t just put a group of unhappy souls at a table and ask them to break bread together. Instead, make sure the party is big enough so that folks can hide in corners or behind a tree.

The art of mingling (LGBT-style) Q: Whenever I have a party, it seems that my lesbian friends stay to themselves and my gay male friends do the same. How can I encourage my guests to mingle instead of clinging to their same-gender friends?

A: Of course, the larger question is: How do you get people who don’t know each other to try and connect? Sad to say, but most of us like to stick with our own kind, or at least with what’s tried and true.

With strangers, simply starting a conversation can be the biggest challenge. And this is where a good host makes all the difference. Go around the party and match up people who happen to have something - pretty much anything - in common. For instance, “Rochelle, I’d like you to meet Mike; he also lived in St. Louis before moving here.”

Or: “Mike, you probably didn’t know that Rochelle has a new puppy too.”

Of course, one of the reasons that the gays and the lezzies may be staying in their own camps at your parties is that they’re on the prowl for a date. Here, too, a good host intervenes. Introduce Sally to Jeanne, saying something like: “You’re two of my favorite people and you’re both screenwriters. I think you should know each other.” And then let them be. Your work is done. Until the next party.

http://www.gaycalgary.com/a1428

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Steven Petrow is the author of “The Essential Book of Gay Manners & Etiquette.”

GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine #72, October 2009

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GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine #72, October 2009

Community Spotlight

Alberta’s Top Ten GLBT Figures Part Two

By Pam Rocker I am always learning about major news events through either Facebook or the occasional glance at a newspaper box. It’s not that I don’t care about what’s happening in the world, it’s just that watching the news is depressing. After fifteen minutes of CNN, you may think that it’s safer to just lock yourself up in your basement, waiting for the apocalypse, since there are no good human beings left on the planet. I’m tempted to do this, but I don’t have a basement, and luckily, I know several very good humans.

Vietnamese Monk and Activist, Thich Nhat Hanh, said: “People deal too much with the negative, with what is wrong. Why not try and see positive things, to just touch those things and make them bloom?”

It is with this in mind that I bring you the second installment of our article on Alberta’s GLBT Figures who are making a positive impact in the community. Earlier this year, we asked you to nominate individuals who you thought deserved recognition for making a positive impact in their community through their personal efforts, or through their efforts within a business or community group. Due to an overwhelmingly wide range of responses, we decided to celebrate the top ten people that you selected, based on the best explanations given as to why they deserved recognition.

Five were showcased in the last issue, and we are proud to present the final five, in no particular order:

Kris Wells Kris is the co-founder and Director of Camp fYrefly, which is Canada’s largest leadership retreat for sexual minority and gender variant youth. fYrefly stands for: “fostering, youth, resiliency, energy, fun, leadership, yeah!” Their mission focuses on building and nurturing the leadership potential and personal resiliency of young people, in an effort to help them learn how to make significant contributions to their own lives and to their schools, home/group-home environments, and communities.

In support of helping to create safe, caring, and inclusive schools and communities for sexual minority youth, he has been a volunteer for over 10 years with Youth Understanding Youth, which is Edmonton’s social/ support group for LGBTQ youth. In 2005, Kris’ community service work was recognized by the Alberta Legislature with an Alberta Centennial Medallion.

In addition to supporting youth, Wells has categorically given the tangible contribution of his time to committees that are enthused to have someone of his experience and expertise on their team. He is the Chair of the Alberta Teachers’ Association’s Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity Sub-committee and the Chair of the Edmonton Police Service’s LGBTQ Liaison Committee. He is also a consultant to the Public Health Agency of Canada, Canadian Teachers’ Federation, Alberta Government, World Health Organization, and UNESCO. True to his passion, Kris is now in the final stages of completing a PhD, focused on sexual orientation and gender identity in K-12 schools, at the Faculty of Education, University of Alberta.

“I am involved in grass roots social change to support issues related

to diversity, equity, and human rights. As a former closeted gay teacher who left the teaching profession because of homophobia, I have vowed to work to denounce conditions of oppression and announce new possibilities for the full and equitable inclusion of sexual minorities,” he shares.

Winter may slow some of us down, but Kris has a full slate. This winter, Camp fYrefly will be hosting its annual Gala Wine Tasting and Silent Auction in partnership with DeVine Wines & Spirits. Also upcoming in February and March 2010, Kris will be on a speaking tour at teacher conventions across Alberta, talking about the connections between masculinity, school violence, and homophobic bullying.

Kris articulately sums up his contagious motivation to find and create solutions to the problems that we face as individuals and as a community: “A school superintendent once told me that all people do is bring him problems. He suggested that what he really needed was solutions.

I took this advice to heart and incorporated it into my community and educational work. It’s often easy to focus on problems and complain about them, but what is more challenging, and perhaps more important, is to build innovative programs and strategies that focus on solutions.

After all, behind every solution is a problem! It’s just a matter of how the issues are framed and how we work to build coalitions across our differences to develop meaningful community solutions to the challenges that we experience on a daily basis.”

Ken Schultz Ken Schultz is the owner and manager of Calgary’s longest running gay owned and operated bar that is still in operation today: the Backlot. The Backlot is celebrating its 13th Anniversary this year, on October 21st, and Ken has been there since the beginning.

Schultz has seen the Backlot organically become a friendly and neutral place where people can come and create new connections.

“When I first started, it was because of my love of the working hours and the great opportunity to meet people. As time went on, I realized that I wasn’t the only one having fun and that the bar was allowing others a place to meet people and understand more about others in their community,” he states.

Ken has seen the community grow and change throughout the years and has clearly had a close up view into the queer culture of Calgary.

“After all this time, there have been a lot of changes in this city. Over the years I have seen a lot of different groups of guys come and go; different ages, economic backgrounds and at various stages of being ‘out’. I have guys who have been coming to the bar from the beginning who still come to see us, there are ones that used to be regulars that visit occasionally, and there are people that used to frequent the bar quite regularly that I haven’t seen in years.”

“The one thing that all of these people had in common was that they were looking for a safe, comfortable place to meet others in their community and I feel that there is still a need for those places today.”

His passion for people reaches not only to the many diverse people that he has met over the years, but also to those who are just beginning their journey. “Those of us who have been out and accepted for years must realize is that every day there are people who are just coming out.

They need the comfort and safety of the gay community, our community, as much as we needed it all those years ago.”

Marni Gras [aka Marcel Panas], Empress 33 of Edmonton and All of Northern Alberta Marni Gras, Empress XXXIII of Edmonton, started out with a small role in The Lion King in 2003, and soon became a lion-hearted force to

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Community Spotlight be reckoned with. During her reign as Empress from May 2008 to August 2009, she launched one of the most successful fundraising projects in the history of the Imperial Sovereign Court of the Wild Rose (ISCWR). The “Cheer Up” project saw the court selling Marni’s pompoms throughout Edmonton and the ICS circuit, eventually raising over $12,000 for her charities.

Many may not know that the man behind Marni, Marcel Panas, identifies as straight, with a wife and child. “If you’re thinking strictly in terms of a demographic, I would be put into the mid-30’s white male, married with children section,” he laughs. “But as we all know, we are much more than what can be seen on the outside.”

The charities that Marni supported during her reign; The University of Alberta AIDS Research Centre and the Royal Alexander Hospital NICU, are extremely close to her heart for many reasons.

In late 2006, Marcel’s wife, Laurina, gave birth to two boys, 16 weeks early. Alexander and Andrew, weighing only 1lb, 13oz each, were extremely ill and fragile for many weeks. This family of four spent many days and nights together in the NICU of the Royal Alexandra Hospital in Edmonton. They had come close to losing one or the other of their boys numerous times during their ordeal. On April 1st, 2007, Andrew fell asleep forever in Laurina’s arms. 15 days later, Alexander went home and now enjoys a healthy and happy life as a toddler.

Marni shares that during this time of unimaginable grief, the community rallied around her and her family, and that “it was during these most trying of moments that the true heart of the GLBT community was displayed.”

She adds that this serves as a constant reminder that, “the love for a child is not exclusive to the straight community, just as much as the effects of AIDS are not exclusive to the gay community.”

Through her contributions to charity and dedicated involvement in the community, Marni is widely increasing the awareness and positive image of the ISCWR. She was also, along with her Emperor XXXIII, Sundance Lonestar and other members of the ISCWR, part of the first Monarchs to ever be formerly introduced to the Legislative Assembly of a Canadian Province.

At Edmonton’s 34th Coronation Ball, Marni remembers looking out at a crowd of over 250 people. “There were people from every corner of the community – guys in leather, boys in dresses, men in suits, and we were all there for the same reason. The diversity was obvious and beautiful.”

On how her reign has changed her personally, she says: “I really believe in myself and believe I can do so much more in my community. We are all different but we’re proof that when we can respect and celebrate those differences, we can do so much more.”

Jenny Lambert-Wheeler For many people, including myself, Money Pennies was and is a stepping-stone to getting to know and getting involved in the gay community. Jenny is well known to most Money Pennies regulars as a friendly, welcoming face and strong ally for the community. Jenny and her husband, Terry, moved to Calgary from Edmonton a few years ago to help run Money Pennies with the owners – Jason and Lizaine, their son and daughter.

Her reputation precedes her and she is often talked about as being someone who not only cares about helping the business thrive, but who cares deeply about the hearts and well being of the people who walk in the door. She credits a lot of this to her own life experience and the

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things that she has learned by having a gay son.

“He came out to us when he was 19. At first [my husband and I] tried to change him. It’s a phase, we thought. To be honest, we’d never really thought about gays or lesbians because it never affected us personally.

We soon realized that he was not going to change. It was us that had to change. Now, we’re so much richer for the people that we’ve met. The gay community is wonderful, and was instrumental in our journey to understand and accept.”

Since then, Jenny and Terry have been involved in various organizations that promote education and acceptance of the queer community.

They were members of PFLAG in Edmonton for 17 years, with Terry serving as President for 10 of those years.

Along with helping with the day-to-day business, Jenny is the main coordinator for all of Money Pennies fundraisers; and there are many.

Most notably, she, along with many others in the community, raised just under $30,000 for one of Money Pennies beloved employees, Sandra Casey.

Sandra was killed by a hit and run driver on January 18, 2009. “She was such a wonderful person, nobody ever said anything bad about her,” shares Jenny. The whole community was devastated, but pulled together to be able to grant Sandra’s wish of being buried alongside her mother in her native Ireland. “So many people gave of their time and money, whether they were gay or straight. We had little kids coming in, giving 5 dollars of their money. Musicians, artists, businesses; we were in this together and we raised it all in 10 days. This is a prime example of what the community can do when we come together.”

Allan Oen [aka Dyna Myte] - Empress 30 of Calgary and All of Southern Alberta Allan is not only known as the owner of both Goliath’s Bathhouse and the Texas Lounge (The Bunker) in Calgary, but also for his hard work and dedication as an Empress as Dyna Myte.

The Texas Lounge has become an unofficial home bar for the Court, as well as a casual place to enjoy some karaoke and a few drinks among friends. Allan utilizes his space as a safe place for anyone to come and be themselves, but also wants to give back to the community that has given him so much love and support.

As a bar owner, Allan has been a long time supporter of the Beswick House, an AIDS hospice in Calgary. The Texas Lounge hosts regular events, both bar and Court related, in order to enrich the lives of the guests at Beswick House.

As Empress 30 for the ISCCA in Calgary, Dyna Myte, and a phenomenal House were able to donate over $42,000 to their charities. Her cando attitude was undeniable, never turning down an event.

The Imperial Sovereign Court of the Chinook Arch (ISCCA), like Edmonton’s equivalent ISWR, is a charitable non-profit group that fundraises in the GLBT community through drag performances and other methods. Dyna believes highly in spreading the philosophy of what the Court stands for. She encourages its growth through mentoring new people and showing them the support they need to spread their wings and soar to new heights.

Says one of the readers who nominated Allan: “Allan deserves recognition for making a great impact in Calgary’s Gay Community, because of his hard work and dedication during his coronation and reign. He cares about every customer and turns them into friends. There is only one Allan, one of a kind.”

http://www.gaycalgary.com/a1433

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Lifestyle

The Leather Soul

Beat me like you hate me; hold me like you love me.

By Boy David When I first became involved in the leather scene, SM wasn’t the first thing on my mind. After all, I just wanted to lick a hot pair of boots being worn by a masculine daddy-type dressed head-to-toe in dead cow… naively I thought “I’m nothing like those sickos who like pain”! (To clarify, when I refer to SM, I am specifically discussing the act of exchanging the sensation of pain between two people for the purposes of physical, emotional, and mental arousal.)

How easy it is to influence the young and impressionable, though!

A mouthful of cigar smoke in my face and being told, “Tonight you’re going to take some pain for Sir,” was all the convincing I needed to try it. The scene that night was very light; it’s often a good idea to leave a new SM bottom begging for more, fulfilled but not satiated, at the end of a session. But even though my first true SM-induced dump of endorphins wouldn’t come until several months after that, the experience has stuck with me as my first introduction to SM. As we already know, the sensation of pain is what our conscious minds experience when our bodies are screaming at us: “HEY, SOMETHING TERRIBLE IS CURRENTLY HAPPENING!” Pain hurts. Masochist or not, it sucks to stub a toe or to break a wrist or to get shoved down several flights of stairs – that pain is a hardwired response.

Biologically speaking, if pain felt good in every sense of the word, it would be a pointless if not self-defeating sensation. Nonetheless, when we experience the displeasure of pain, the pituitary gland releases these wonderful little opiate-like compounds into the body known as endorphins - something that also happens during periods of mental excitement and orgasm. These compounds act both as a natural painkiller and provide a sense of well-being. To put it bluntly, SM can give you a natural high.

SM also has the power to keep a participant in the moment. The world fades away; the past, the future, and everything except for the people directly involved in the scene, are forgotten. For a short period of time, all that exists are the sensations, and the connection between participants. It’s a happy release from the deadlines, schedules, and relationships of the real world.

The art of SM, however, lies in the knowledge and experience of the top. There’s something very zen about what happens: the bottom “rides” the pain that the top shares with them, while the top focuses on how their bottom reacts to each strike.

An SM experience is not just about sensation; it is also about a connection between two (or more) people. My fondest memories of SM do not come from any one specific punch to the chest or strike of a flogger; instead, what I remember most is the actions of the men who I’ve played with between those periods of sensation, as if the rush of endorphins intensifies any kind of attraction between myself and the men who I play with. In the middle of a scene, having my back rubbed with a leather gloved hand, soothing the pain, as my top whispers, “Good boy,” into my ear is beyond any kind of expression of appreciation that I’ve ever experienced in the vanilla world.

Of course, with this exploration of hypermasculine sexuality, nothing is set in stone. During particularly intense SM, it’s not entirely uncommon for somebody to cry from joy, scream in agony, laugh maniacally, or yell in rage. As an experienced SM bottom once related to me, it all depends on what doors get opened during that particular session.

Especially heavy bottoms, with the help of a skilled top, can even attain out-of-body experiences with the help of SM. Regardless of the emotional state that SM puts the bottom in, he needs to be mentally prepared to just go with it much like he needs to be prepared to just go with the sensation of pain.

Being guided through these emotional states requires a significant amount of trust between bottom and top. During good SM, the top and bottom share a part of themselves with each other that is rarely seen by the outside world. They both allow themselves to become vulnerable, sharing desires that are often suppressed outside of the playroom.

It’s only natural that they would have a level of affinity for each other after sharing an SM experience.

If this article has sparked interest, I would recommend seeking out somebody who can guide you through an SM scene in a safe, sane, and consensual manner. Although there are books available that go through the process of how to flog or spank or cane somebody, no book can compare to the lessons learned from 1-on-1 interaction with an experienced leatherman who can show, firsthand, the necessary safety precautions and techniques that can be implemented to provide a pleasurable and safe experience for all involved.

I invite anybody who is interested in exploring SM to my weekly discussions at the Calgary Eagle, 8pm on Wednesdays. For more insight into the psychological appeal of SM, there is a wonderful section on the subject in Urban Aboriginals by Geoff Mains.

http://www.gaycalgary.com/a1434

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GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine #72, October 2009

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Politics

The Price of Our Hard-Won Rights

By Evan Kayne “Eternal vigilance is the price of liberty.”

- Wendell Phillips (1811-1884), American abolitionist, lawyer, orator and agitator.

As of October 1st, 2009, sexual orientation is now officially written in as a protected ground in the Alberta Human Rights Act. Since 1998 and the Delwin Vriend ruling, it has been “read in” as a protected ground, but now it is official.

With this freedom now secured, we have the duty to protect it from those who might see it chiselled away.

This past month saw an important appeal heard at the Court of Queen’s Bench in Calgary regarding the ongoing saga of Darren Lund versus Stephen Boissoin. As you may recall, In 2002 Boissoin – who at the time was the National Chairman of the Concerned Christian Coalition – had a letter published in the Red Deer Advocate claiming “homosexual rights activists and those who defend them are just as immoral as pedophiles, drug dealers, and pimps who plague our communities.”

Darren Lund, then a high school teacher in Red Deer, rightfully saw this as hate speech and filed a complaint with the Alberta Human Rights Commission. In 2008, the Commission ruled the letter violated the province’s human rights code (section 3), ordered Boissoin pay $5,000, told him to cease and desist in engaging in the behavior which brought him before the Commission, and finally, apologize to Lund, now a professor at the University of Calgary.

Boission’s appeal of that decision was heard on September 16 and 17; the appeal was argued with the decision being reserved (meaning a written decision will be issued later by the justice – probably sometime later this Autumn).

Part of this appeal was prompted by the broad ruling of the Commission. Mr. Boissoin, through his lawyer, claimed his right to free speech was taken away. Pat Nugent, the lawyer representing Darren Lund, agrees: “The Human Rights decision was – in our view – overly broad. The panel directed Boissoin and the Concerned Christian Coalition to cease and desist making any…what it called ‘disparaging remarks’ about homosexuals or about Mr. Lund or about any of the witnesses Mr. Lund called.

Disparaging remarks is an extremely broad term and would capture many things which would fall short of the kind of speech that would expose a vulnerable group to hatred or contempt which is what the test is under the legislation.” This complicated the whole matter, and they agreed on this part with Mr. Boissoin and wanted the court to limit the order to be something more in line with the Human Rights statute.

However, even if that had been the ruling, Boissoin felt his freedom of speech was unjustifiably limited. The Boissoin position – and the position of two interveners (the Canadian Civil Liberties Association and the Canadian Constitution Foundation) - is that there should be no limits on hate speech except for those found in the Criminal Code of Canada.

Unfortunately, to find someone guilty of the crime of Hate speech is much tougher than being found to have offended section 3 of the Human Rights code. “They say there should be no human rights-related prohibitions on hate speech,” Mr. Nugent said.

The reason for this is that hate speech crime convictions are very difficult to obtain. According to Mr. Nugent, in the Criminal Code when it comes to hate speech, “there is a requirement for an intention to expose a group to hatred...that guilty mind component is always a tough one to establish in a hate speech prosecution.” It makes getting these convictions much harder. Mr. Nugent is opposed to that approach because the criminal law and the human rights law have two different objectives. Criminal law equals punishment, while human rights law equals remediation, compensation, and education. “It’s not meant to stigmatize and punish people who offend the human rights law – it’s meant to educate people, to let them know that these are the norms that society wants everyone to follow, and to compensate people who have been wronged as a result of their

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breaches. But not to punish – punishment is not one of the objectives of human rights legislation.” There are no fines to be assessed in a human rights breach, just minor damages payable to people harmed by wrongful speech/actions. Criminal law means you could go to jail, and any fines usually are payable to the state.

At first glance, going through the Criminal Code for a hate speech conviction would seem a harsher gamble for offenders like Boissoin. Stiff fines and jail time versus paying a modest amount and apologizing. However, as mentioned, getting a conviction in the Criminal Code is extremely rare – we know about the exceptions like Jim Keegstra and recently David Ahenakew who were charged and found guilty. Well, technically, only Keegstra was found guilty; David Ahenakew went through a second trial, and was acquitted. When you consider what Ahenekew said about Jewish people, on the surface it seems pretty clear what was stated was hateful towards a group of people. But with his conviction being overturned, it does empower certain people to think if they only had to worry about the Criminal code, they stand a pretty good chance of getting away with all sorts of hateful language, and thereby influencing others to think and sometimes to act in a similar manner.

Back to the Boissoin/Lund case, the court has been called upon to do a number of things. Boissoin’s position is that the decision of the panel should be quashed, and the court should substitute its own decision – either this is not hate speech under the human rights definition, OR if it was hate speech, this kind of speech should be federally regulated through the Criminal power (therefore the human rights legislation is unconstitutional) and the decision should be quashed; OR the third option is this ruling is an unjustifiable infringement on freedom of expression – under the Charter of Rights, the hate speech provision in the human rights legislation should be quashed and therefore that decision against Boissoin should be quashed.

Now, according to Mr. Nugent, the court could say the legislation is sound but the letter to the editor Boissoin sent didn’t constitute hate speech under human rights legislation. Or they could say this is hate speech, but there are constitutional problems with the legislation so therefore the panel didn’t have any legal basis to impose these remedies.

Alternately, the court could rule it is hate speech, with the second half either being (a) the remedies the panel awarded were not appropriate or (b) these remedies were appropriate. For the reasons Mr. Nugent indicated at the start, he thinks the court will most likely consider just limiting the scope of the remedies.

Yet this whole case illustrates why, even with our newly awarded recognition in the Alberta Human Rights Act, we have to be on guard against those who feel the granting of our rights lessens theirs, or those who would use religion to justify their bigotry. With the Lund/Boissoin case as an illustration, the central argument of people who oppose hate speech regulations in Human Rights legislation is that the law has no business interfering with free speech. Yet the law interferes with free speech all the time – defamation is an example. “Somehow we have this notion that the protection of reputation is constitutionally untouchable but the prevention of discrimination is not,” Mr. Nugent told us. “The reality is, to be free from discrimination is a constitutional right, but the right to one’s reputation is not. It’s almost backwards. We should be more protective of efforts to prevent discrimination than we should of efforts to protect reputation.”

This is something which is lost in the mainstream media – speech is limited all the time when it comes to protecting the individual. Yet somehow when it comes to slandering a minority, suddenly this becomes “thought police” and unjustifiable.

Whatever the outcome of the case, we can be proud of the advancements the GBLT community has made when it comes to our rights. Now the battle moves on toward protecting these rights from those who would see them reduced.

Eternal vigilance, indeed.

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 Letters- From Page 23 Dear GayCalgary, I want to say a great big thanks to all those who entered the Chili contest and to those who came to eat and support the fundraising event.

After a long day, starting with the AIDS walk in the morning, to show up for the contest with chilis to offer up and to eat - it was a full day for many.

We raised over $1500 dollars for Beswick, even back to back with other major events. It shows the ability of this city and community to come and support each other.

- Johnathan Finlayson

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Book Review

Book Marks

This One’s Going to Last Forever, Pop Salvation , Life As We Show It

By Richard Labonte

This One’s Going to Last Forever, by Nairne Holtz The title of this stellar collection of seven short stories and one centerpiece novella is a glorious if hopeful lie: the relationships seldom last forever. Yet Holtz’s bravura fictional insights about young life and love are a tonic. So, too, is her embrace of sexual fluidity; her queer characters (most, but not all of them women) pass through periods of lusting for opposite – rather than same-sex bodies – or minds.

The opener, “When Gay is the New Straight,” is a deceptively laid-back tale about an Elvis-impersonating gay man who officiates at a drive-through wedding chapel while having an affair with an ostensibly straight man who’s on his way to marrying a woman.

And though dykes across the Kinsey spectrum inhabit the rest of the collection, Holtz weaves a good number of other boys, questioning and otherwise, throughout – she’s a lesbian writer with delicious crossgender appeal. None of the stories pall, but the standout is the longest, “Are You Committed?,” which dwells on the political and sexual angst of college students with spot-on resonance.

Pop Salvation, by Lance Reynald It’s Andy Warhol, Marilyn Monroe and The Rocky Horror Picture Show to the rescue in this ‘80s-set novel-lite. Caleb Watson is a queeny queer boy, bullied by his Washington, D.C. private school peers, who finds solace – and a sense of self – by re-imagining his harsh highschool world as Warhol’s Factory.

He replicates on a teen scale the platinum-wigged artist’s refuge for sexual and artistic outsiders, and casts himself quite consciously as a “pint-sized” Andy, fierce leader of his fellow outcasts. These include ethereally beautiful Aaron, an athletic but shy lad with inner passion; street kid Brit, a young boy who can pass any time for Marilyn; and child-of-socialites Sonia, whose rebellion against her upper-class breeding involves cultivating a yen for fey boys. Reynald’s debut is more a series of vignettes infused with the glam culture of its era – including a soundtrack of references to New Wave and BritPop – than it is a traditional novel. But its portrayal of courageous adolescence, particularly the sweetly subsumed romance between Caleb and Aaron, is wholly satisfying.

Life As We Show It: Writing on Film, edited by Brian Pera and Masha Tupitsyn Dodie Bellamy immerses herself in thoughts of E.T. while coping with her mother’s dying. Wayne Koestenbaum riffs on the gender “puzzle” that is Elizabeth Taylor. Bard Cole considers both the veiled porn implicit in mainstream movies featuring young men, and the life of erotica icon Joey Stefano. Richard Grayson exhumes the film screens of his Florida youth. Abdellah Taia, sitting with his dozing mother in a darkened Moroccan room, recalls finding sexual self-realization watching a queer French movie on TV. Rebecca Brown overlays her own life with imagery from classic Westerns. In these smart essays, few short stories, a poem and a screenplay, 25 entries in all, contributors – obviously smitten by cinema both contemporary and classic – cast a personal eye on a universal medium. They aren’t reviewing films, though. Instead, these writers muse on how film and life are intertwined, how they find themselves on screen and those screens in turn reflect them. Settle in with a box of Twizzlers and revel in the provocative thinking contained this fresh take on popular culture.

Featured Excerpt Aaron possessed the looks and charisma that would have him labeled a pretty boy. Beauty that implied tenderness.

There was a darkness to all his features. Hair and eyes of the deepest browns were matched to olive skin that appeared permanently tanned. The beauty contrasted with a rugged physical quality that I imagined made him good at any sport. His bushy eyebrows peeked out from behind a wavy mane of black hair that was as thick as the eyelashes that gave the appearance of black eyeliner. In spite of his striking looks, he was very shy, in the same way that I was.

He was the most beautiful boy I’d ever seen. And he became the first friend I ever had.

-from Pop Salvation, by Lance Reynald

Footnotes QUEER-INTEREST AUTHORS Colm Toibin (Brooklyn), Sarah Waters (The Little Stranger) and William Trevor (Love and Summer) are among 13 novelists nominated this year for Britain’s top literary award, the $85,000 Man Booker Prize... TOIBIN IS ALSO one of three international judges for the 2009 Man Asian Literary Prize; the 24 nominated novels, all from Asian-Pacific authors, include Leche, R. Zamora Linmark’s sequel to Rolling the R’s, about young life, gay and otherwise, in Hawaii... TOM ROB SMITH’S Stalin-era Russian thriller, Child 44, a novel with a substantial queer subplot, won Best First Novel earlier this year from the International Thriller Writers. Meanwhile, the Horror Writers of America selected Unspeakable Horror: From the Shadows of the Closet, edited by Vince A. Liaguno and Chad Helder, as winner of the Bram Stoker Award for Best Anthology... BOOKS INTO FILM: Brent Hartinger’s young adult novel, The Geography Club, and Jeffrey Eugenides’ Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, Middlesex, have been optioned for film... GERMAN PHOTO-ART publisher Bruno Gmunder is coming out in October with Ultimate Falcon, a 400-page collection of pin-up photography featuring the porn studio’s almost-40 year roster of hunky performers; the $99 book showcases erotica legends Casey Donovan and Al Parker, contemporary bodybuilder Matthew Rush, and newcomer Brent Corrigan on the cover.

Richard Labonte has been reading, editing, selling, and writing about queer literature since the mid-‘70s. He can be reached in care of this publication or at BookMarks@qsyndicate.com.

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Music Review

Hear Me Out

Whitney Houston, A Fine Frenzy

By Chris Azzopardi Whitney Houston, I Look to You Who won’t always love Whitney Houston for her sky-reaching vocal bombast – the kind that could rip through a song like a chainsaw cutting into a tree trunk? That rafters-climbing belting that marked the glorious highs of her pre-“crack-is-whack” career, before the lows – a reality show, drugs and Bobby Brown – derailed it, is MIA on her comeback LP, her first in seven years. Boisterous bootybumpers like “Million Dollar Bill,” a fun ’70s throwback, and “A Song for You,” a dance misfire, help hide the sad fact that Houston’s voice is sand-papered down, the crisp purity of her ’80s instrument replaced by a coarse rasp. And not once does she even try to ignite a fountain of vocal pyrotechnics, which is what you’d expect – and never get – from a soulful lead single like “I Look to You,” a redemptive riff on finding hope in something – be it in God or her gays. Anything but coke, let’s hope. “I Didn’t Know My Own Strength,” about being unbreakable, is the only other piano ballad.

Both help recoup Houston’s nearly-shot reputation, and even if the voice isn’t quite the voice anymore, she sings from the heart, letting us feel – without giving the nitty-gritty details – what it’s like to find your way back from hell. Maybe we should be looking to her.

Grade: B

A Fine Frenzy, Bomb in a Birdcage “Stood Up,” the penultimate grandiose-sounding queer fight-song on Alison Sodul’s sophomore set, never bluntly declares that it’s for gay rights, but lyrics like “they sunk every ship we sank/but we stood up” seem a little too well-timed not to be. And after touring with Rufus Wainwright, we already know Sodul, who performs as A Fine Frenzy, is gay-friendly – and a cute, talented, ethereally voiced pianist and literary-driven writer. If her quiet debut, One Cell in the Sea, was a caterpillar, its follow-up is the butterfly – beautiful, and swifter than its lulling, teen-show-friendly predecessor (her voice even flutters on “Blow Away”). The sweetly lovelorn guitar-driven “What I Wouldn’t Do,” spanked with percussion, launches an experimental bunch: “New Heights,” a euphoric Coldplay-like quencher; “Electric Twist,” a neat ’80s-tinged electro cut with a Regina Spektor-inspired yelp, and the catchy split-up song “Happier.” Tracks in the middle are growers. “Elements” has a pretty melody that builds with crashing drums and “Bird of the Summer” employs a summery, flute-sweetened vibe. The closest she comes to sounds

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of “Cell” is during the album’s delicate closer, “The Beacon” – a lovely piano-led lullaby where she helps a suicidal friend find the light because, based on this album’s bright shine, Sodul’s already found hers.

Grade: B+

Also Out Kate Earl, Kate Earl This Alaskan chanteuse just wrote the theme song to every music lover’s life: “Melody,” a delicious little neo-soul charmer that’s easily one of the happiest – and best – singles this year. Nothing on her self-titled major label debut quite reaches that level of grandeur, but a lot of the peppier Dido-like pop – especially the cute sing-along love song “Everlasting” – comes close. On “All I Want” she’d like to reach just one person. Maybe she’s underestimating herself.

Sarah Bettens, Never Say Goodbye The achy-voiced alt-rock artist’s first album from her own international label, Cocoon Records, is a folk and jazz collection of new songs, favorites from her last two solo LPs and covers. As painfully stunning as her take on Bonnie Raitt’s “I Can’t Make You Love Me” is, it’s almost a note-for-note copycat. But “Slow You Down,” a stripped-down heartbreaker, might make you love her.

Imogen Heap, Ellipse That this androgynous-voiced trendsetter’s third album begins with some of her best futuristic work is almost damaging to the rest of the disc, which starts to sound like snoozy elevator music.

The quirky laptop-made noises she tinkers with makes for mysterious, moody musical landscapes, like the yearning “First Train Home” or the piercing patchwork of “Canvas,” but there’s a flighty, where-is-this-going? way about some of the others. Hide and seek, indeed.

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Queer Eye - Community Photography Events Calgary Pride Dance, Parade, and Street Festival

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Queer Eye - Community Events Photography After-Pride Parties in Calgary. At the Backlot, Calgary Eagle, Money-Pennies and the Soda

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GayCalgary and Edmonton Magazine #72, October 2009

Queer Eye - Community Photography Events Pride Explosion Drag Show at MPs - Calgary

Rocky Horror Pride Show at Plaza Theatre - Calgary

TD Canada Trust Pride Reception at Tangerine - Calgary

Pride Volunteer Appreciation BBQ - Calgary

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Queer Eye - Community Events Photography Autumn Harvest Pride Campout - Blackfalds (Photos by Jason Clevett)

The Fates at MPs - Calgary

Pride at Work Launch at Jaro Blue - Calgary

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Queer Eye - Community Photography Events ARGRA Annual General Meeting - Calgary

ARGRA Monthly Dance - Calgary

Military Ball at Calgary Eagle

Open House at Club Paradiso - Calgary

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Photography Queer Eye - Community Events 1st Anniversary Party at PLAY Nightclub - Edmonton

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