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Pride funding It might feel like déjà vu, but it’s not. Toronto City Council’s executive committee has once again put Pride Toronto funding at risk. On Sept 10 it voted to ask the city manager to rework the city’s anti-discrimination policy to include a ban on the words “Israeli apartheid.” ›9
Proud FM Toronto’s gay radio station is on life support. It recently lost its bid for a new signal that would have allowed it to attract more listeners. Four on-air personalities were also handed pink slips. ›9
OUT IN THE CITY
Julia Sasso The choreographer brings her new show to the Harbourfront Centre’s Enwave Theatre. Xtra chats with Sasso about life, death and dance. ›13
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Beth Ditto The voice behind indie rock band Gossip says she loves Canada. In an interview with Xtra, Ditto shares fond memories of time spent with the late Toronto artist Will Munro, whom she says was the perfect role model for our city’s queer community. ›16
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TIFF highlights OUT IN THE CITY
a t a h W ! s u a h power Comic artist J Bone is one of several artists showing his work as part of a new Glad Day exhibit that aims to inspire young people. Xtra chats with Bone about how drawing affected his formative years. ›13
The stars were out this month at the 2012 installation of the Toronto International Film Festival. Xtra’s paparazzi caught up with Mark Ruffalo, James Franco, Gwyneth Paltrow, Rachel McAdams, Lana Wachowski and more. ›xtra.ca
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Counting Pride attendees Why are the parade attendee numbers so hard to pin down? ›xtra.ca
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Comment An open letter to the city’s major cultural organizations Editorial Danny Glenwright Attention: Matthew Teitelbaum, CEO, Art Gallery of Ontario Grant Troop, CEO, National Ballet School of Canada Alexander Neef, general director, Canadian Opera Company Denise Herrera-Jackson, CEO, Scotiabank Caribbean Carnival Alexandra Montgomery, executive director, Gardiner Museum Kevin Garland, executive director, National Ballet of Canada Janice Price, CEO, Luminato Michèle Maheux, CEO, Toronto International Film Festival Andrew R Shaw, CEO, Toronto Symphony Orchestra DEAR FRIENDS AND LOVERS OF THE ARTS: Together with Kevin Beaulieu, Pride Toronto executive director, you comprise the most senior people at those 10 cultural organizations that receive money from the City of Toronto. In 2012 the city gave you a rather paltry total of $6,030,960. Pride Toronto received the least ($123,807), and the Canadian Opera Company received the most ($1,317,015). I write today with a word of caution and a request for help. City executives made a disconcerting decision Sept 10 while you were likely busy working. It’s understandable if you missed it — even Mayor Rob Ford skipped the meeting. Council’s executive committee on Sept 10 asked the city manager to redraft the city’s anti-discrimination policy to include a ban on criticism of Israel. Deputants said the phrase “Israeli apartheid” is hate speech and called for Pride Toronto funding to be cut if the group Queers Against Israeli Apartheid is allowed to participate in future Pride events. This is despite the fact that last year city manager Joe Pennachetti said QuAIA’s participation in Pride does not violate the city’s anti-discrimination policy, and the group marched in the 2012 Pride parade to little fanfare. Never mind that former American president Jimmy Carter and Desmond Tutu — two Nobel Peace Prize winners — have oft used the word apartheid to describe the situation in the Middle East. Or that Jessica Montell, the executive director of B’Tselem, one of Israel’s most respected human rights organizations, has said, “In some cases, the situation in the West Bank is worse than apartheid in South Africa.” This is despite the fact — most important, if you ask me — that Toronto City Council has no business making pronouncements about international affairs that it will never have an effect on. (Do councillors have nothing better to worry about? Housing, public transit, gravy!)
Of course, I can hear you yawning. I know most Torontonians are tired of this debate. Unfortunately, the executive committee’s decision matters. It is a restriction of free speech and a chilling warning to you all: at any moment councillors can decide to cut funding because they deem something in one of your festivals, exhibits or shows offensive. Councillor James Pasternak (who won his seat with just 19 percent of the vote) and Councillor David Shiner, a former clothing store owner, have asked the city to go “beyond provincial and federal statutes and legislation.” Council’s executive committee, sadly, voted nine to one in favour of Shiner’s motion. Deputy city manager Brenda Patterson rightly asked if “Israeli apartheid” is added to the anti-discrimination policy, what next? Meanwhile, Councillor Gord Perks wanted to know why Pride is being targeted. It’s a good question and the reason I’m asking you to speak up. It’s safe to say gay people help keep your institutions afloat — the same gay people who celebrate Pride. We need your help — and you should provide it if for no other reason than you could be next. For example, Ms Maheux, what if councillors got word that Annemarie Jacir presented her film When I Saw You at this year’s TIFF? Between us, Jacir has openly used the word apartheid to describe the situation in her Palestinian homeland. It’s very possible she used the words “Israeli apartheid” over the last couple weeks while she was in Toronto speaking in an official capacity at TIFF. This could mean your $800,000 in city funds is threatened next year because some Jewish lobbyist is chummy with Councillor Pasternak. What about the year TIFF screened Atom Egoyan’s Ararat, a film about the Armenian genocide? Imagine if Turkish Torontonians had lobbied council to ban the words “Armenian genocide” and asked it to cut funding to TIFF if you ever show a film in which those two words are uttered? It’s more than possible now. The doors are open. Banned words at city hall can now change with the seasons, depending on which interest group has the ear of politicians. What about you, Ms Price? Luminato has a history of showing controversial work — like in 2007, when you staged the Monty Python satire Not the Messiah. Christian groups have labelled the production blasphemous. If city council can decide it’s unlawful to pass judgment on a nation state like Israel, it’s entirely possible in future it will decide Toronto cultural organizations can no longer criticize any religion. You get my point. The arts are meant to be controversial. City council should remember the immense collective benefit a thriving and critical cultural community brings to any city, never mind the tourist dollars. We become Russia or China once we give our leaders the power to silence us if we use words that might offend them. First they came for Pride. I urge you to speak up now, because next they may come for all of you. Danny Glenwright is Xtra’s assignment editor.
“The outcome that we seek is this — gay and lesbian people daring together to set love free.” Xtra is published by Pink Triangle Press, at 2 Carlton St, Ste 1600, Toronto M5B 1J3.
BY STAYING AWAY, WE’LL ONLY ENSURE THERE ARE NO LOCAL THEATRES LEFT TO BITCH ABOUT.
INBOX Catholic schools THE PEOPLE OF Alberta, Ontario and Saskatchewan (the only provinces that still have public Catholic school systems) need to consider the original reason for separate Catholic schools [“School Merger Would Save Millions: Study,” Xtra #727, Sept 6]. They were created in an era when Catholics faced discrimination in public schools where religion was taught, but it was religious instruction that was often very negative to the Catholic religion (or negative to non-Catholics in Quebec). Today, anti-Catholic discrimination is not the issue. The issue is encouraging respect for all kinds of diversity — racial and religious diversity, yes, but also sexual diversity. This is best done in a single public school system. Should religion be taught in schools? Certainly, students should be taught about religion as units in social studies classes, but in a day and age when a majority of students attending Catholic schools are not from faith-active families, it is foolish to think that any teaching of one set of religious beliefs or one faith is going to be effective. Wayne M Edmonton, AB THE OPPRESSIVE communist regimes in Eastern Europe collapsed in the 1990s because they were not economically viable. In like manner, public funding of Catholic schools in Ontario will eventually end because it is not economically viable. The people of Ontario will eventually tell the politicians in the Liberal Party, the PC Party and the NDP that they need to stop taxpayer funding of Catholic schools, rather than continuing to ask citizens to pay more and more taxes for fewer and fewer public services. Enough is enough. Benedict Toronto, ON
Pride funding NOT THIS OLD CANARD again [“A New Battle Over Pride Funding,” xtra.ca, Sept 11]. Don’t these rightwing, misinformed politicians ever follow the city and Pride Toronto’s own independent, thoughtful ruling on this? “Israeli apartheid” is an expression of a strong point of view that should not even be on the executive committee’s agenda as the city has already ruled on the legality of the expression. And so has Pride Toronto, after a
Send your correspondence by mail to 2 Carlton St, Ste 1600, Toronto M5B 1J3, email comment@xtra.ca, or log in to xtra.ca and comment directly. We may edit letters.
dispute resolution process was initiated just before Pride 2012. The matter ought to close. I, for one, would rather stop taking city money for Pride than allow the city to interfere with who does or doesn’t march in a Pride parade or what expressions may not be used. Let’s hope that the executive committee comes to its senses or that the whole of city council will overrule what the executive committee has tentatively ruled. It has been discussed, dissected and analyzed for over two years now by the city, by Pride Toronto and the LGBT community. Enough! Let Pride be Pride. James Dubro Toronto, ON
comment Regardless of your views, this is a chilling day for free speech in Toronto. Perhaps the city executives should team up with Russia for the language on prohibiting state criticism. —David Langan Vancouver, BC To comment, go to xtra.ca.
I, TOO, HAVE BEEN IN Pride parades for 40-something years — on two continents. And to keep repeating the “Pride has always been political” mantra is a red herring. Yes, Pride has always been political about gay issues, not about supporting groups who are homophobic — and I mean the majority of Palestinians supported by QuAIA. More to the point, QuAIA has stolen its Israeli apartheid phrase directly from Israeli leftists. In Sudan, Muslim-on-Muslim violence has killed 10 times more than the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, but the people at QuAIA don’t see fit to mention this in Pride or anywhere else. The day QuAIA also dares to go to the West Bank and Gaza and parade around with banners insisting on gay rights, then I’ll say they have a right to be in Pride. Ken Pieta Malton, ON
Riding split I THINK THE PROPOSED split of the Toronto Centre riding is a good thing [“Proposed Riding Redistribution Splits the Village in Half,” Xtra #727, Sept 6]. Right now, Toronto’s LGBT population is concentrated in one riding.
After redistribution, there will be a significant LGBT population in two ridings. Therefore, two MPs (rather than one) will have to take our concerns into account — or face our wrath on election day. Furthermore, it’s good news for the NDP, who will be well positioned to win the redrawn Toronto Centre riding. I assume Liberal Bob Rae (the current MP) will choose to run in the new riding of Mount Pleasant (the northern part of the current riding). Bill Toronto, ON
Theatre boycotts IN EDMONTON, AS IS happening across Canada, theatres big and small are facing exactly the pressures you describe [“Why This Boy Won’t Boycott, Xtra #727, Sept 6]. Whatever our feelings about the programming that remains, I suggest we continue to support our local theatre companies (particularly those that produce new plays by Canadian playwrights) and find other ways to voice opinions about programming. By staying away, we’ll only ensure there are no local theatres left to bitch about. Another great article, Brad. Randy Williams Edmonton, AB
Del Newbigging I CAME ACROSS THE memoriam article in a most obscure way [“Del Newbigging, 1934–2012,” xtra.ca, Aug 9]. I am currently attending the TIFF. As you may know, part of the fun of this moviegoing madness is to stand/sit in endless long lines. So I always bring something to read. This day I didn’t have anything, so I grabbed several free newspapers and by happenstance came across the article about Mr Newbigging. Could it possibly be the same man? The art teacher who made me feel so wonderful 40 years ago? He was such a talented guy. I do not profess to be any great artist. But in his classes there was just something so cool, I can’t explain it. Welcoming, knowledgeable, helpful, he was always gently pushing for your best work. I was shocked to realize I was reading a gay publication — not that I didn’t thoroughly enjoy the entire paper. The more I read about Mr Newbigging (really hard to call him Del) and his wonderful accomplishments, the more I was awestruck. I’m so glad I stumbled upon the article. Martina Giblin Brampton, ON
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XTRA! SEPT 20, 2012
noteworthy › updates › ephemera
HAYDEN
Xcetera
Compiled by Jeremy Feist
1
SUDS & GRUB
2
Topping up
AN ODE AGAINST THE ODE TO GAY MARRIAGE
Compiled by Erica Lenti & Sofia Mikhaylova
CHARLES E
In the second installment of our food and beverage series, Xtra sent a team to Church Street to find the strip’s best spots for beer and nachos. For more on this story, turn to page 18.
POLITICAL FOOTBALL
AN ODE TO GAY MARRIAGE
7
YOU’RE JUST ODIOUS ISABELLA
1
Spirits 642 Church St
NACHOS: $16; +5 sliced
chicken breast, +5 ground beef, +4 pulled pork BEER (PER PINT): Domestic, $5.63; import, $7; premium, $6.25
2
Lola’s Kitchen 634 Church St
NACHOS: $13; +4 chicken,
GLOUCESTER BALTIMORE RAVENS
I believe we should be doing everything we can to make Maryland families stronger, which is why I support marriage for gay and lesbian couples who want to make a lifetime commitment to each other. — Baltimore Ravens linebacker Brendon Ayanbadejo, in a Marylanders for Marriage Equality video
MINNESOTA VIKINGS
AFRO.COM
I find it inconceivable that one of your players, Mr Brendon Ayanbadejo would publicly endorse Same-Sex marriage, specifically as a Ravens Football player . . . Many of your fans are opposed to such a view and feel it has no place in a sport that is strictly for pride, entertainment and excitement.
BEER (PER PINT):
Domestic, $5 (Mill St)
3 4
MONTEITH
DUNDONALD
— Wanda Sykes, in the wake of Proposition 8
HARD TO SWALLOW
The Vic Public House 580 Church St
BEER (PER PINT): Domestic, $5.30; domestic premium, $5.75; craft, $8.10
5
WELLESLEY E 5 6
MAITLAND
2012
“I’m a black, gay woman. I think the only way for the GOP to hate me more is if I sent them a video of me rolling around in a pile of welfare cheques.”
Regal on Church 491 Church St
BEER (PER PINT): Domestic, $6.25;
import, $7.25
6
Statlers 487 Church St
BEER (PER PINT): Domestic, $5
7
Big Johnson’s 477 Church St
NACHOS: $11; +5 fajita chicken,
7
IN WANDA’S WORDS
LGBTHISTORYMONTH.COM
555 Church St
NACHOS: $15; +7 beef, +5 chicken
THEN AND NOW
“We took a huge leap forward and then got dragged 12 feet back. I felt like I was being attacked, personally attacked — our community was attacked. Now, I gotta get in their face. I’m proud to be a woman. I’m proud to be a black woman, and I’m proud to be gay.”
Church St Diner
domestic premium (bottle), $5.95; craft (Flying Monkeys), $5.50
4
— Minnesota Vikings punter Chris Kluwe gives Burns the verbal boot
2008
3
BEER: Domestic (bottle), $4.95;
CHURCH
— Maryland House of Delegates member Emmett C Burns in a letter to Baltimore Ravens’ owner Steve Bisciotti
Dear Emmett C Burns Jr, If gay marriage becomes legal, are you worried that all of a sudden you’ll start thinking about penis? . . . I can assure you that gay people getting married will have zero effect on your life . . . They won’t magically turn you into a lustful cockmonster.
+3 pulled pork, +3 black beans, +2 bacon, +3 tofu
8
9
— Sykes in regard to the Republican platform
+2 double cheese, +1 guacamole BEER (PER PINT): Domestic, $5.75
8
9 ALEXANDER
FORKANDBEANS.WORDPRESS.COM
O’Gradys
518 Church St NACHOS: $14; +5 fajita steak, +4.50 grilled chicken, +4 ground beef, +3 feta cheese, +3 extra cheese, +1.50 jalapenos, +1 guacamole, +1 hot sauce BEER (PER PINT): Domestic, $5.10; import, $6.67; premium, $5.75
Churchmouse and Firkin 475 Church St
NACHOS: $16; +3.50 grilled chicken,
+3.50 spicy beef BEER (PER 20 OZ): Domestic, $6.65; import, $8; premium, $6.90
of the Dog 10 Hair 425 Church St
10 WOOD
Anti-gay guide compares homosexuality to obesity
NACHOS: $12; +5 chicken, +4 tofu, +4 ground beef, +2 guacamole BEER (PER BOTTLE): Domestic, $4.75; import, $5; premium, $5.75; beers on tap (including “Hair of the Dog” lager) range from $3.75 to $5.25 per pint
11
Radio show host/professional crazy person Linda Harvey recently released a guide to help parents talk to their kids about the gay community. Specifically, how they’re all terrible sinners who are going to hell. In the guide, Harvey encourages kids to think of gay people like they do overweight people: just because they’re both being bullied doesn’t mean you should try to step in and help them in any way! Once again, this is probably why bullies should not give advice on bullying.
Mick E Fynn’s 45 Carlton St
NACHOS: $13; +4 chicken,
+3 cajun beef, +3 guacamole BEER (PER PINT): Domestic, $6.50; import, $8.50; premium, $7
11
CARLTON
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Toronto’s gay & lesbian news
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HEY QUEER & TRANS YOUTH! SUPPORTING SOY! Need a new challenge? Walk, run or ride your wheelchair 5km, 21km or 42km in the Scotiabank Marathon in Toronto on Oct 14th to support LGBTQ youth! SOY has to fundraise around $150k to support its programs for youth each year, so we’re looking for people to help out and have fun at the same time. 2EGISTER DIRECTLY OR SPONSOR US AT HTTP WWW TORONTOWATERFRONTMARATHON COM EN REGISTER HTM AND SELECT h3HERBOURNE (EALTH #ENTRE n 3/9v AS YOUR CHOSEN CHARITY OR CONTACT #LAIRE ON OR CJARROLD SHERBOURNE ON CA TO lND OUT ABOUT FREE PLACES
SOY H.E.A.T. (HUMAN RIGHTS. EQUITY. ACCESS. TEAM) is looking for SOY youth who want to learn more and educate others about oppression.This project brings together emerging youth leaders to address the human rights climate in Toronto. !N ORIENTATION SESSION FOR YOUTH WHO ARE INTERESTED TO lND OUT MORE ABOUT THE PROJECT WILL BE HELD ON 4HURSDAY 3EPT TH FROM 0- 0- IN 2OOM TH mOOR AT THE 3HERBOURNE (EALTH #ENTRE ESSENCE: A youth-centred group where queer, trans and questioning youth gather to uncover, discover and recover our deeper selves. Come learn, socialize and share wisdom through workshops, guest speakers and discussions about different non-denominational and queer-positive ideas and practices of spirituality, faith and community. Facilitated by Adam Benn. 4UESDAYS PM #ONTACT X ABENN SHERBOURNE ON CA TO REGISTER NEWCOMER IMMIGRANT YOUTH PROGRAM (EXPRESS): A safe and supportive space where newcomer and/or immigrant queer youth ďŹ nd a safe space to gather, share ideas, questions, and most of all HAVE FUN! Interested? 4UESDAYS PM 3HERBOURNE (EALTH #ENTRE 3HERBOURNE 3T %MAIL SOYNEWCOMER SHERBOURNE ON CA OR CALL BLACK QUEER YOUTH (BQY): A safe space for Black, Mixed, African/Caribbean Youth under 29, who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, transsexual and questioning. Come chill, learn and socialize, free food & drinks - Spread the word! 7EDNESDAYS PM 3HERBOURNE (EALTH #ENTRE 3HERBOURNE 3T %MAIL ,ORELEI BQY SHERBOURNE ON CA OR CALL TRANS_FUSION CREW: A warm, inclusive space for transgender, transsexual, intersex, two-spirit, gender-questioning youth and our allies to chill out, make art, share information, get connected with referrals and work on amazing activist projects. 4HURSDAYS PM EMAIL TFC SHERBOURNE ON CA OR CALL
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9
dispatches › issues › opinion
Upfront MEDIA
PEOPLE ARE EATING OUT LESS. THEY ARE SAVING THEIR MONEY. IT’S TOUGH, BUT THIS STREET IS STILL GOOD. IT WILL SURVIVE. Café California owner Vince Moneva › 10 TORONTO PRIDE
Proud FM loses bid for new signal Andrea Houston PROUD FM HAS LOST ITS BID FOR a stronger radio signal, a move management had hoped would save the station, which is struggling to stay afloat. The Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) granted the licence to Rock 95 Broadcasting, allowing it to launch a new radio station to serve the Toronto market at 88.1 FM. Rock 95 will offer an English-language music format
Proud FM has been bleeding money and staff for years. In February, management decided to move administrative staff out of its Wellesley Street location because of the neighbourhood’s increasingly high rents. The business side of Proud FM is now located across town, at Evanov’s headquarters at 5312 Dundas St W. In 2010, Proud FM let go of four popular on-air hosts: Deb Pearce, Patrick Marano, Shaun Proulx and Mark Wigmore. Earlier, in November 2007, the station fired
New battle over Pride funding City executive committee wants ‘Israeli apartheid’ banned Andrea Houston
Paul Bellini (right), with Pearse Murray, was one of four part-time on-air personalities let go by Proud FM. TONY FONG
with a focus on independent and emerging Canadian artists, a Sept 11 news release states. The CRTC considered 22 proposals for the use of 88.1 FM. The decisions follow public hearings held in Toronto from May 7 to 16. Four part-time Proud FM on-air personalities — Acey Rowe, Paul Bellini, Crystal Lite and Danielle Loncar — were recently handed pink slips. Programming director Bob Willette says the station was forced to make the cuts to save money. The owner, Evanov Radio Group, is suffering major losses, he says. “We have gone significantly into the hole over our five and half years on the air, so we unfortunately had to eliminate our part-time staff.” Willette was hoping the station would get 88.1 FM, which was owned by Ryerson University for almost three decades. Bellini, who hosted a Sunday afternoon show for about a year, says he was crushed by the news. “I loved doing my show . . . it pisses me off that it’s over. One less fun thing for me to do.” Willette says that if things improve, he hopes to rehire Bellini and the others. “I hope the community sees that this is just a matter of economics.” Willette will not release specific details about Proud FM’s financial situation but says, “It’s very expensive to run a radio station in Toronto.” The problems are not new —
Maggie Cassella, Richard Ryder and a number of staffers. Ryder was eventually rehired. Since Evanov first won the licence for Proud FM in 2006, the station has been plagued by a weak frequency at 103.9 FM, says Evanov VP Carmela Laurignano. The problem is that Proud FM sits too close to Z103.5 on the dial,
WE HAVE GONE SIGNIFICANTLY INTO THE HOLE OVER OUR FIVE AND HALF YEARS ON THE AIR. — programming director Bob Willette so the stations risk interfering with each other. As a result, Proud FM’s downtown transmission has been limited to 50 watts — too weak to penetrate downtown buildings. That means listeners can’t get a good signal, even in Toronto’s gay village. A move to 88.1 FM would have eliminated the problem, Willette says, noting that while the station is on life support, it is still alive. “Proud FM will always be around in one capacity or another. To what extent can we maintain live shows and a presence on the street? That is a valid question. I don’t know.”
TORONTO CITY COUNCIL’S EXECUTIVE committee has asked the city manager to rewrite the city’s anti-discrimination policy to prohibit criticism of Israel, which would directly affect funding for Pride Toronto. Council requested the review in June because some councillors say Pride Toronto’s $123,807 city grant should be contingent on the non-participation of Queers Against Israeli Apartheid (QuAIA) in the Pride parade. Nine deputants spoke to the executive committee Sept 10, saying that the phrase “Israeli apartheid” is “hurtful” and considered “hate speech.” In 2010, council passed a motion requiring that groups participating in any Toronto festival comply with the city’s anti-discrimination policy. Last year, however, city manager Joe Pennachetti released a report that stated QuAIA’s participation in the parade did not violate the city’s anti-discrimination policy. In June, following a motion by Councillor James Pasternak, council symbolically condemned the phrase “Israeli apartheid,” although the action had no effect on city policy and QuAIA marched in the 2012 Pride parade. But Councillor David Shiner wants the city to go further, “beyond provincial and federal statutes and legislation.” Shiner’s original motion did not contain the words “Israeli apartheid.” Later, he amended the motion, adding a request for the city manager to consider including the following phrase: “That in respect of the application of the anti-discrimination policy to the grants programs, in light of the purposes of the grants policy and the community complaints, Council also give specific direction for the imposition of a condition of the funding for the 2013 Pride event, that the term ‘Israeli Apartheid’ not be permitted to be used as part of the event.” Councillor Gord Perks was quick to challenge. “Let me get this straight. You are asking council to restrict speech beyond those that exist in law? Why is criticism of a nation state unacceptable speech, and why is Pride the only event we are watching?” Deputy city manager Brenda Patterson explained the problematic nature of singling out one specific phrase at one city festival. If “Israeli apartheid” is
Dozens of Queers Against Israeli Apartheid supporters marched in the 2012 Pride parade on July 1. ADAM COISH
added to the anti-discrimination policy, she asked, which other potentially offensive terms should also be included? “In terms of language, so much of this is in the eye of the beholder. We’d have to specify all terms,” she says. “Those may change over time . . . otherwise, we put our staff at risk of being challenged under the Ontario Human Rights Code.” Pasternak, who complained that QuAIA enjoys “a certain sense of entitlement,” says Pride Toronto should have done more to keep the group out of the 2012 parade. “Pride came to us and told us about their dispute process. I’ve heard plenty of complaints about their dispute process,” he says. “It’s nothing but a kangaroo court.” The dispute resolution process, chaired by lawyer Douglas Elliott, was implemented following a recommendation that came out of a series of meetings held by the community advisory panel. The panel was convened after a bitter, public three-year fight over QuAIA’s participation in Pride. Elliott says the dispute-resolution panel has received about seven com-
plaints to date. “Mr Pasternak is really one of those people with strong opinions on the subject of Israel, and I’m afraid it colours anything he has to say on the subject,” he says. “People on the DRP are all very distinguished lawyers, all well-qualified people, certainly more qualified than Mr Pasternak to rule on legal questions . . . I think it’s sleazy politics on his part.” Using the phrase “Israeli apartheid” to describe the Israeli government’s policy in regard to the Palestinian territories is not new, and QuAIA is not the first to say it. Journalists, academics and even former American president Jimmy Carter have called Israel an apartheid state. But Shiner disagrees. “[Apartheid] is not happening in that country. I challenge anyone to get on a plane and go see what’s happening,” he said. The nine-to-one vote did not include the mayor, who was absent during the debate. The one dissenting vote came from Councillor Norm Kelly. The antidiscrimination policy was sent back to the city manager and will return to executive committee in 2013.
10
Toronto’s gay & lesbian news
XTRA! SEPT 20, 2012
COMMUNITY NEWS
TORONTO NEWS
Changes on Church
Xavier Dolan wins TIFF award
Andrea Houston YOGEN FRÜZ MAY HAVE CLOSED UP shop on Church Street, but the previous owner says another frozen yogurt chain will soon open a new location in the same space. Fuzie Kim, who recently moved her business to Yonge and Eglinton, says she closed the Church Street location because the building required too many renovations. “The space has been leased to Yogurty’s,” she says. Yogurty’s is a selfserve frozen yogurt bar with more than 10 locations in the Toronto area. Kim does not know when the new franchise will open. Karen Sterling, Yogurty’s vicepresident of marketing, refused to comment or confirm the new location.
Medical centre In other neighbourhood news, a new Church Street medical centre is set to open its doors in early October. Workers are busy completing renovations to the York Medical Health Centre, which will open in Xtra’s former digs. “It’s a full medical suite, which includes family physicians, urgent care, pharmacy, dentistry, optometry, medicine and wellness,” says Stewart Watson, medical professional liaison for the centre. “We’ve almost got all the physicians hired. There are still a few openings. We have some starting in October and some starting later
The York Medical Health Centre will soon open in Xtra’s former Church Street offices. ANDREA HOUSTON
because some have contracts where they are.” Watson first saw the space from the balcony of his apartment across the street. “Having been in the Xtra office, the space seemed ideal,” he says. The York Medical Health Centre, which has other clinics north of Toronto, already has a roster of about 400 patients pre-registered. For more information, call 416-323-3358.
Reither’s space becomes two Across the street, a wall is being erected through the middle of the empty space formerly occupied by Reither’s Fine Foods.
Reither’s closed abruptly in March after 23 years at its Church Street location under Steamworks. But construction seems to be moving slowly and workers are rarely on site. A couple doors north, Café California owner Vince Moneva notes that the space is likely being divided because of high rent prices on the strip. The landlord will be able to lease two smaller — and cheaper — spaces faster than one, he says. Moneva, whose has operated his business on Church Street for more than 20 years, says the current economic downturn is hitting small businesses especially hard. “People are eating out less. They are saving their money. It’s tough, but this street is still good. It will survive.”
BBR BACK TO SCHOOL BACK TO WORK BACK TO MUSIC KLIPSCH S4i REFERENCE
GAY CANADIAN FILMMAKER XAVIER straight couple whose relationship is Dolan may not have won a prize at tested after Laurence, the male charCannes this year, but his latest film, acter, reveals to his girlfriend that he is trans. Laurence Anyways, was Dolan chatted with Xtra awarded Best Canadian on the TIFF red carpet. He Feature at the close of the said his character’s transToronto International Film sexuality is a “secondary Festival. plot.” Dolan spoke to Xtra be“I knew that my main fofore TIFF about his disapcus would be love,” Dolan pointment that the film was says of the film, which not screened in a competiXavier Dolan. clocks in at more than tive category at Cannes. SHAYNE LAVERDIÈRE three hours. He doesn’t The TIFF award comes think of it as a queer film: with a cheque for $30,000. “I’m honestly surprised. This is nothing “Laurence is a work that I want to share short of comforting for me,” Dolan said with everybody.” — Xtra staff in his acceptance speech. For Xtra’s full interview Laurence Anyways is the story of a with Dolan, visit xtra.ca.
NATIONAL NEWS
Health Canada warns against HIV testing kits HEALTH CANADA IS WARNING CANAdians to steer clear of a new website selling a home testing kit its makers claim can detect HIV. The government agency was tipped off to CuraHerb Distributor after its site was reported because of concerns about the company’s trademarked Home Aware brand. While the website claims to be “fully certified and approved by major bodies,” Health Canada has stressed that the kits have not been approved, and there is no evidence of their safety or reliability. A claim is made that they can be used to test for HIV — as well as hepatitis, syphilis, cancer, dengue
fever and a slew of other diseases and infections — via blood, saliva and urine. Health Canada’s website points out that, while these kits might seem like a godsend, they may deliver false results. The kits, which are available for both individuals and partners, range in price from about $40 to $250. The site carries seven testimonials from users swearing by the product — all from Australia. It’s unclear whether the company remains in operation. Calls and messages to customer support went unanswered, and the supposedly 24/7 live chat has been offline since Health Canada issued the advisory. — Justin Ling For more on this story, visit xtra.ca.
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XTRA! SEPT 20, 2012
INTERNATIONAL
ONTARIO NEWS
France moves closer to gay marriage
Activists condemn Sault Ste Marie sex worker arrests
F R ANCE ’ S J U ST ICE M I N IST E R confirmed this week that the country’s new Socialist government, led by president François Hollande, will introduce a bill this winter to legalize same-sex marriage and adoption. But even if it passes, French gays and lesbians won’t enjoy as many rights as their Canadian counterparts. France will continue to prevent gay couples from using artificial insemination and in vitro fertilization. (Heterosexual couples in France have access to assisted reproduction as long as they can prove they’ve been together for two years.) French gay couples who manage to have babies together still won’t be allowed to list both parents’ names on their children’s birth certificates. Tatiana Marot, co-chair of the Parisian wing of the Association des Parents Gays et Lesbiens (APGL), says she is thrilled that the ruling Socialist Party is going ahead with its promises. “This will give equal rights to our children,” she tells Xtra in Paris, “and it opens the door for us to have the same protections as straight couples.” Still, she adds in a followup email, “What’s being proposed isn’t enough. Our children won’t be fully protected until the presumption of parenthood is included in our marriages.” — Kaj Hasselriis For more on this story and for more international news, visit xtra.ca.
Daniela Costa A GROUP OF SEX PROFESSIONALS and activists is calling for police in Sault Ste Marie, Ontario, to stop arresting sex workers. The group has also criticized local media in the northern Ontario city for publishing personal information about sex workers who have been arrested. “Sex workers deserve to live in safety and dignity,” says Joni Aikens of Kingston’s Sex Worker Action Group (SWAG), a sex-positive organization run by current and former sex workers and their allies. In an open letter, SWAG asks Sault Ste Marie police to take part in a community consultation on the issue. The group also calls on residents to show solidarity with sex workers by joining the Red Umbrella Campaign’s local Take Back the Night march on Sept 20. The letter is a response to the arrest of nine sex workers on Aug 13 and 16. Sault Ste Marie police released the women’s names and addresses, which were then published by local media. The campaign is personal for Aikens and fellow activist Arlene Pitts, both of whom are natives of Sault Ste Marie. “We recognize that we’re not there, so we would like this to reach out and be a community-based initiative,” Pitts says. Sault Ste Marie police maintain that because open solicitation is still an offence, the arrests are justified.
“We thought the enforcement was part of the solution,” says Chief Robert Davies. Activists see it differently. “What they’re doing is taking advantage of vulnerable people who probably don’t know how to defend themselves in court,” says Nikki Thomas, executive director of Sex Professionals of Canada. Thomas says her organization is supporting SWAG. In a landmark March 2012 decision, the Ontario Court of Appeal struck
SAULT STE MARIE DOES NOT FORGET. THEY ARE NOT GOING TO FORGET THESE WOMEN. — activist Arlene Pitts down two Criminal Code provisions related to sex work. The judgment legalized brothels and changed a law that made it illegal to live off the avails of sex work. However, it upheld legislation that prohibits communication for the purposes of prostitution. Activists are waiting to see whether the Supreme Court will hear the federal government’s appeal of the ruling. Until then, they say, police should
back off. “This is not something they have any business enforcing until the Supreme Court has ruled one way or another,” Thomas says. Davies says it’s standard policy for police to release the names and addresses of those arrested in the community of about 75,000 people. He says it’s vital to avoid confusing one resident with another who might have the same name. But Pitts says the small size of the community means sex workers have virtually no anonymity. “Sault Ste Marie does not forget,” she says. “They are not going to forget these women.” Along with personal information, local media published the nature of sexual services offered. With no publication ban, media were free to do so. Activists say the potential harm of releasing such information outweighs any benefits. “I cannot fathom any reason why they think the public interest is being served by making already marginalized people that much more vulnerable,” Thomas says. All together, police laid 19 charges against the women, including nine for communicating for the purpose of prostitution. The women were also charged with breaches of probation. One woman pled guilty, while the other eight are scheduled to appear in court Sept 17. They were all released from police custody, but three were later rearrested for violating bail conditions.
11
Toronto’s gay & lesbian news
XTRA! SEPT 20, 2012
BEFORE ‘THE BIRDCAGE’,
THERE WAS ‘LA CAGE.’ GEORGE HAMILTON
Christopher Sieber
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13
arts › entertainment › leisure
Out City IN THE
ON DISPLAY
I HAVE ALWAYS BEEN AN EXTREMELY MONOGAMOUS PERSON. I THINK PEOPLE THINK I’M REALLY WILD. Beth Ditto ›16
ON STAGE KENNETH GRAY
The creative ones
Long day ’s journey into light
Twelve queer artists join forces to inspire youth Chris Dupuis LIKE A LOT OF ARTISTS, J BONE started creating as an escape from middle-school social life. A shy, awkward kid raised in Woodstock, Ontario, the Toronto comic artist and animator compensated for his lack of stature by pencilling alternate worlds where he could be anything he wanted. “I tended towards isolation and I was never the popular kid,” he says. “Drawing myself as different superhero characters became my outlet. But in a weird way that eventually became my entry into the popular circles, because people would notice my drawings and got interested in me.” Encouraged by the upward mobility his talents provided, he went on to study illustration at Sheridan College and promptly landed a job as an animator. Though the fast-paced work greatly enhanced his skills, labouring as a faceless member of a gigantic team eventually started to grate on him. “It was a bit of an ego thing,” he says. “When you work in a group like that, you’re just one of many names flashing by at the end of a program. I wanted to see my name on the cover of something.” Since then, he’s penned several of his own books, as well as working on numerous DC comics, like Spiderman, Super Friends and The Spirit. But for his contribution to the group show Powerhaus, Bone returned to his childhood experiences. Inspired by American author Ursula K Le Guin’s assertion that the “creative adult is the child who
survived,” the show commissioned 12 queer artists to share their insights on youth self-empowerment through art. Bone’s semi-autobiographical contribution is an 11- by 17-inch comic panel about a bullied kid who reimagines himself as various superheroes, only to have his talents discovered, gaining him the kind of attention he desperately craves. “I wasn’t bullied as a kid, but I was definitely a loner,” he says. “The piece is about a kid who feels like he’s picked on but actually could be one of the popular kids based on his talent.” Though there’s a definite innocence to the work, Bone’s other projects put sexuality front and centre. His Beefcake blog, Man’s Adventure (bonesmen.blogspot.ca), overflows with rippling abs and well-stuffed packages. Despite a Tom of Finlandesque quality to the bodies, the project stops short of balls-out erotica. In lieu of full-frontal, it hearkens back to 1950s-era physique magazines, where a bare chest and partially open fly were enough to get someone going. “I find not seeing everything a lot sexier because you can create your own story,” he says. “Once everything’s hanging out, there’s nowhere left to go. The point where someone’s pants are about to come off is the sexiest moment for me because anything can happen.” Though he loves his work, he’s quick to admit feeling conflicted about the way he portrays bodies — his other site, Blah, Blah, Blog! (gobukan. blogspot.com), is chock full of impossibly wasp-wasted pin-up girls. Comic art historically (and its present-day progeny, video games) tends to hypersexualize both men and women to unachievable extremes. Is he worried his work might be contributing to the gay community’s notorious culture of body fascism? “I have moments where I feel conflicted about it, but I also can’t control how people view my work,” he says. “I’m a skinny nerd with glasses, so I don’t look like what’s typically considered desirable in the gay scene, and I don’t want to contribute to gay men feeling insecure about their bodies. I’ve had my own history of body issues, but the older I get the less I care what other people think.”
the deets POWERHAUS Toronto artist J Bone eschews full nudity, leaving plenty to the imagination.
Sun, Sept 23–Tues, Oct 23 Glad Day Bookshop, 3rd floor 598 Yonge St gladdaybookshop.com
Julia Sasso’s latest dance piece is a metaphor for life Alex Tigchelaar
Julia Sasso’s SLoE is a meditation on life’s big questions danced by six dancers of different ages at various stages of their careers.
J
U L IA SASSO SI TS intently in the basement of the Toronto Dance Theatre on Winchester Street, back straight, Tim Hortons coffee sweetened with stevia in hand. Her bare feet — bumpy, rough, calloused — are planted firmly on the floor. They provide a road map of her provocative dance career and call to mind a Neruda poem:
When I cannot look at your face/I look at your feet/Your feet of arched bone/your hard little feet . . . /I love your feet/ only because they walked/upon the earth and upon/the wind and upon the waters/until they found me. Sasso is watching her ensemble rehearse, teasing out the details, carefully examining the bodies she has chosen to help her tell a beautiful story. “Sue,” she says to one of her dancers, “touch Irvin’s face.” Sue fixes her gaze on Irvin’s face and touches it with firm tenderness. Sasso cocks her head to evaluate the emotional quality of the gesture. It pleases her. She nods. Sasso’s latest piece is called SLoE (Simple Lines of Enquiry) and is based on a composition of the same name by the late Ann Southam. The piece explores the big stuff with the delicate reserve the title suggests. “Life and death,” Sasso says. “Why? How come? When? What if ? What comes after? Why do we do the things we do to each other?” These were all things, she says, that Southam was
JOHN LAUENER
contemplating when she composed this work, which has the quiet, meditative quality of Brian Eno’s Music for Airports, with a more affectionate touch. (Dare I say female? Southam was a huge supporter of what she called “femaleness,” and her work often reflects the repetitive quality of “women’s work.”) Southam made this piece late in her life and it is introspective and retrospective. There is a profound kindness to it, and Sasso gets at this by creating a tremendous sense of support, both visually in the piece
the deets SLoE Thurs, Sept 27–Sun, Sept 30 Enwave Theatre Harbourfront Centre 235 Queen’s Quay W harbourfrontcentre.com
and in the process. The dancers are unanimous in their sense of compassionate community. The burden of movement is supported by each dancer, and the grace of the movement comes from seeing the effort, rather than hiding it. As the notes dissolve in the music, so does the movement, dancers going forward with intention, their movement evaporating and being taken up by another. Throughout the piece there is a recurrent suggestion that we look for ourselves and our life experiences in other people. Southam made Simple Lines of Enquiry for Eve Egoyan to play, and Egoyan will play it in this production —upstage right, with a full-sized concert grand. Sasso talks about the support Southam and Egoyan showed for one another, “elevating each other’s careers though trust and generosity.” In 2008, Southam presented the piece to Sasso and commissioned her to make a solo for it, which Sasso did, but then realized she wanted to be outside of it as a choreographer. Southam agreed with her choice, which reflects the purpose of the work, and the theme of support that has been at its inception. Sasso takes all the notes she made with her own body and brings a variety of dancers at different points in their careers (five women, one man) to reflect this “metaphor for a life journey.”
14
Toronto’s gay & lesbian news
XTRA! SEPT 20, 2012 The all new
Toronto’s newest yarn shop Specializing in indie dyers, all your old favourites & wool you won’t find anywhere else For a full list of classes and to visit our blog, visit eweknit.ca 585 Markham St. @EweKnitTO 416 530 4848 eweknit.ca
Your next hookup is closer than you think.
Pushing Buttons Artist/curator, Wil Craddock, presents an archive of virtual chat about pin buttons Pushing Buttons reimagines the space of The Pin Button Project, (www.pinbuttons.ca), an online experience that engages individual memory and storytelling through the exhibition of a rich history of LGBTQ+ buttons from the holdings of the CLGA. In Pushing Buttons, the online is brought into the physical – space and content are reimagined. The spectator becomes a witness to the historical and present roles of pin buttons. D U R AT I O N
September 28 - October 22, 2012 OPENING RECEPTION
Friday, September 28, 7:30pm
www.clga.ca
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XTRA! SEPT 20, 2012
STEREOTYPES
Coming-out tips for lezzies Guest Column Sarah Bertrand
I
’VE WORKED AS A DJ ON CHURCH Street for the last nine years, at both Crews and Slack’s. With the booze flowing and the music playing, I’ve been lucky enough to meet a wide variety of Torontonians in these safe spaces that let people be themselves and confide in the DJ. I’ve listened to people afraid to come out, those wanting so badly to come out and others who recently exited the closet. These brave lesbians have inspired me to write a short guide about what to expect once you’re out. The first thing to know is it’s going to be okay. So, congratulations and welcome to a whole new sense of freedom! Although we are all beautiful individual butterflies (or huskies, depending how gay you are), there are a few unavoidable stereotypes and other pitfalls you will inevitably fall victim to. You will soon discover that many people find it hard to stop saying, “That’s so gay!” They will likely then
Speaking of eating, like meat? Not for long. One of the best dates I ever went on was to a Korean barbecue place. We consumed nothing but meat. It was wonderful. Then, out of the blue, a month later, she says, “Babe, I watched a documentary” — lesbians love documentaries, something else you should know. I love meat. My girlfriend has never forced her newfound “lifestyle” on me, but every so often she’ll make something delicious, and when I’m greedily consuming it, she’ll slyly ask, “Do you like it? Hm. It’s tofu, you know.” Home Depot. That’s such an inaccurate cliché. Or is it? Wouldn’t it be nice to do a project together, honey? Maybe a hat rack for all your baseball hats and that one fancy fedora. What do you think, babe? Wednesday night is the best for TV. Staying in and relaxing. Except you’re gay now, which means somewhere there is dancing and beer. You need to go there. Now! Do you love her? Really? Well if you truly did, wouldn’t it be cute to get matching tattoos? I hope you didn’t enjoy showers all that much, because you’re not allowed to have them any-
15
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We’re with the Band www.squirt.org AN EVENING IN SUPPORT OF COMMUNITY ONE FOUNDATION
PROHIBITION & PROVOCATION FEATURING: The Steinert & Ferreiro Award
Bound is a movie that you will inevitably share with your partner.
look at you with terror and an apology. Others will try to relate to you: “Ellen DeGeneres is so hilarious!” Everyone will assume you’re an athlete, or at the very least you’re now “that guy” when someone needs help moving into a new condo. Or you’ll hear some variation of this: “I’m not a lesbian, but do you think I’m hot? You don’t? Why not? If I was gay, I’d definitely date you. If I was drunk I would totally make out with you. I’m not gay, but I’m sure if you made out with me, you’d think I was hot. I think I like you, and I don’t know what that means . . . I know I’m straight, but I get jealous when I see you with other girls. Can we just cuddle and not label it?” Let’s jump ahead. You’ve met your first girlfriend! Obviously online. You don’t like to rush into things. The first date is going wonderfully. You had no expectations, but she’s perfect. And you love her. But you haven’t even ordered dessert yet. That’s okay. In the gay world, it’s acceptable, for some reason, to put all your proverbial eggs in one basket.
more. For some reason, we’re all about baths. Bubble baths, music, maybe a glass of wine. Isn’t it cute when the cats come in and sit by the edge of the tub? Gia, Bound, Tipping the Velvet, But I’m a Cheerleader. These are all movies you will inevitably share with your partner. For some reason, you’re partners now. Not girlfriends. And do you like dogs? No? I guess it will have to be fish. You’ll need something to nurture with your new lady-love. Above all else, remember to stop and enjoy yourself. It is a difficult, brave and wonderful thing to acknowledge who you really are. Breathe and smile. There is a wealth of support, and above all else, you are not alone. When you do meet that girl and you’re happy and everything seems like it finally fits and you’ve been together for five months, don’t panic! Google U-Haul — they have very reasonable rates. Toronto at Night, with Ryan G Hinds, will return.
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Toronto’s gay & lesbian news
XTRA! SEPT 20, 2012
HOTGOSS COVER STORY
Nobody stands in the way of Beth Ditto. Interview by Matt Thomas
B
ETH DITTO IS A FIRECRACKER. The brash front-woman of the ever-evolving soul, electropop, dance, garage rock, fusion band Gossip has become a gay superstar thanks to her largerthan-life personality, politics and vocals. From their humble roots in Olympia, Washington, Ditto and her band have gone on to play some of the biggest music festivals in the world. Ditto has graced the cover of countless magazines (nude on more than one occasion) and even walked the runway as a model for Jean Paul Gaultier during Paris Fashion Week. An outspoken feminist, gay rights activist and pioneering fashionista, Ditto recently designed a line of plus-sized clothing for Evans. Gossip is currently touring with its newest album, A Joyful Noise; Xtra chatted with Ditto ahead of the band’s Toronto show.
Is it hard to maintain a strong queer identity and your politics as the band’s profile grows? Did anyone ever tell you to shy away from your queerness for professional reasons? Not at all. There’s never been any pressure from labels, agents, anyone about distancing ourselves from being gay. It’s possibly, in part, because people know better than to ask us something like that, but the people we work with at Sony have been very supportive of that part of Gossip’s identity. A lot of artists have really gotten behind Russian band Pussy Riot. How does this kind of social repression make you feel, and do you ever worry about expressing yourself? I think we’re really lucky, as are any artists who live in the West or in countries where that level of punishment is just not a possibility. I don’t feel at all frightened that I’m going to be thrown in prison for saying something pro-queer or identifying myself as feminist onstage or criticizing the government during a performance. There are risks to some kinds of activism in America, but talking shit about the president
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onstage isn’t one. I really can’t fathom what it would be like to live somewhere where that is a reality, and I have deep respect for people who speak up and put their lives on the line to try to create change. Do you still experience homophobia in the industry or in your travels with the band? Sure. It’s rare; we surround ourselves with queer-positive people. But every once in a while at a festival or whatever, you encounter bands or audience members who are sexist or homophobic. It’s the same as any industry, any job. Are you surprised by how the fashion community has supported you? Do you feel the urge to do more designing and help change people’s attitudes in the industry? A lot of people in fashion are artists; they’re the freaks and queers who didn’t fit in in high school, and I actually relate to so many of them really well because of it. The creation and maintenance of oppressive body standards didn’t start with the fashion industry, and it’s a lot more complicated and far-reaching than a runway show. That said, not everyone has access to designers willing to make things in their size, and a lot of designers don’t make off-the-rack sizes that would fit anyone above a size 12. I would love to design more collections for fat girls, ’cause I have so many ideas and everyone deserves to have fashionable, affordable clothes in their size.
part of creating community and that it can be dirty and crazy and chaotic, but also inclusive and positive and creative rather than destructive. There can be sexism within the queer scene, same as any other scene, but Will went out of his way to include women and trans people in everything he did. He combined art and sex and music and fun and activism in a way that few people do successfully, without being cheesy. I don’t know that Toronto queers need my advice; Will was pretty much the perfect role model. Queer communities need to be inclusive, need to have well-curated art and music; they need affordable events, and events that don’t just centre around drinking. They need to have impresarios and promoters that aren’t just in it for money or personal fame, but who are down for participating in all aspects of what it means to be queer — from going to dance parties to volunteering for LGBTQ youth centres. Gossip has grown in infamy over the years. Are there any goals/collaborations you still have on the schedule as artists? Can’t someone just introduce me to David Bowie? That’s all I care about right now. And Tim Gunn. Seriously. Did you ever struggle with your sexuality when you were younger?
Yeah, of course. I grew up in the South in a conservative, religious town. I thought I was going to go to hell, and I prayed for a long time to just You’ve played Toronto lots of times, includget pregnant so I wouldn’t have to face the realing several times at the legendary Vazaleen ity of who I knew I was. I don’t think kids should parties. Tragically, we lost superstar artist/ have to fear for their mortal souls over their promoter and Vazaleen mastermind Will Munro sexuality. It’s incredibly sad that as a culture we to cancer a few years ago. Is there any advice still haven’t evolved past a place where growyou can give Toronto queers when it comes to ing up and becoming a sexual being is a deeply keeping alternative queer culture and nightlife lonely, solitary, anxiety-ridden process. But I happening and sweaty? was lucky to have a family that was supportive, and to stumble into a We love coming to Canada; audiGOSSIP group of high school friends that ences are so sweet and fun! Will is Sat, Sept 29, 8pm were supportive, too. You know a huge part of my memory of those Phoenix Concert Theatre that weird thing where gays kind days. He was such a one-of-a-kind 410 Sherbourne St of gravitate to other gays in high person. He really understood that gossipyouth.com school even when none of you are throwing parties and shows is a
out yet? My best friend from high school is a fag who lives across the street from me to this day! You recently announced you were getting married to your adorable long-time girlfriend, Kristin Ogata. Like a lot of gay celebrities you’ve changed your position on the idea of getting married; why the switch-up? It will be next summer, in Hawaii. My girlfriend — who is very adorable, thank you — is Hawaiian and her family lives there. I am beyond excited. I didn’t change my mind about getting married, really. I have always been an extremely monogamous person. I think people think I’m really wild in that way, but honestly, the idea of being with one person for the rest of my life makes me so happy. Are there any queer artists past or present who have inspired you personally or musically? Leigh Bowery! The Need and Rachel Carns! Vaginal Davis! Have I mentioned Tim Gunn? Divine! John Waters! How can queer rights move in the right direction? Oh god. It’s an election year, so in the US all you hear on the news is endless debate over gay marriage. It gets used as a wedge, to whip both sides into frenzy and to distract from the Republican economic and healthcare policies that have brutally negative effects on the very people who vote for them. Access to the right to marry and the right to all other social liberties enjoyed by any other class of citizen is such a vital issue for queers, and it makes me sick to see it used as a smokescreen to trick working class and poor people into voting for a party that doesn’t give a shit about them. That and abortion issues. Women and queers get to be the battleground for both parties. The news in the US is so dark and depressing right now. I don’t have a lot of answers about what’s the right way forward, but I do think that increasingly prominent visibility of happy, functional, queer role models has been enormously helpful in demystifying gays and offering hope for isolated young people.
Could you afford, right now, to go to your employer and safely say, ‘I am a homosexual’? ASK hopes that in not too many years the sexual variant will be able to do so without fear or recrimination or repercussion. Founded in Vancouver in 1964, The Association for Social Knowledge (ASK) was the first homophile organization in Canada formed “to help society to understand and accept variations from the sexual norm.” QUEER MEDIA SPONSOR
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XTRA! SEPT 20, 2012
SIP Beth Ditto, flanked by band members Hannah Blilie (left) and Brace Paine. RANKIN
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Toronto’s gay & lesbian news
XTRA! SEPT 20, 2012
ON TAP
Experience Toronto transformed by artists
Hair of the Dog is a popular spot for beer and nachos. ADAM COISH
Mmmm, beer September 29, 2012 7:03 pm to sunrise One night only. All night long. All free.
“
One night, one million people and 130-odd art installations... the result is the most genuinely popular cultural event in Toronto.
”
-Toronto Star scotiabanknuitblanche.ca
sbnuitblancheTO
Church Street still the best spot for a brewski Erica Lenti & Sofia Mikhaylova SO MANY OPTIONS, SO LITTLE TIME: there is undoubtedly no shortage of restaurants and pubs to frequent in the Village. Known best for its social and energetic atmosphere, the Church Street strip is jam-packed with places to kick back, have a drink and chow down with friends. Xtra took a stroll through the Village and checked out the best places to grab nachos and a beer within a six-block radius.
In with the new With the Village constantly growing and changing, it comes as no surprise that new food vendors continue to pop up along Church Street. Take Big Johnson’s, the latest addition to the slew of bar-and-grill-type restaurants located near Church and Maitland. Owner Keith Jalbert promises competitive prices on food and drink in comparison to the strip’s established venues. For those looking for the familiar, O’Grady’s and the Churchmouse & Firkin remain classic.
Cha-ching If you’re on a budget, look no further than Hair of the Dog, on the corner of Church and Wood streets, or Big Johnson’s. Both serve up a pint and a platter of nachos for just less than $17. But if you have change to spare, be sure to check out O’Grady’s or Spirits for the most nacho toppings.
xtra.ca Wondering what other readers think? Go to xtra.ca and check out the reader comments on the bottom of every news story.
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All things beer Church Street venues are serious about their beer. In keeping with local trends, many are serving up organic beer, including Mick E Fynn’s on Carlton, dubbed a “campus pub” for neighbouring Ryerson University students. Though served sparingly, you’ll find craft beers, like Flying Monkeys, on tap at the Church St Diner and the Vic Public House. But if you’re looking for something locally brewed, good luck. The closest you’ll find to a local beer is Hair of the Dog’s “special” lager, which, we’re told, is just a fancy disguise for Pabst Blue Ribbon on draft.
Go veg or go home Good news for vegetarians: most nacho platters sold on Church are served without meat. Hair of the Dog and Lola’s Kitchen also offer tofu options. Bad news for meat-lovers: adding meat to your platter will cost you, but with a wide variety of toppings to try — from pork to chicken to Cajun beef at venues like Spirits — it’s worth the extra cash. We recommend: Hair of the Dog, at 425 Church St, and Big Johnson’s, at 477 Church St. For a map of Church Street’s best beer and nacho spots, turn to page 7. In the next issue, Xtra searches out pints and poutine on Queen Street West.
Acco mm od Resources ations Acco untants Banking Ba Apartments Ar t Ga Ad ult Adve rtising Busin ess &nkruptcy Bars & Clubslleries Ar t Supplies Agencies AIDS/HIV Butchers Ca Professio na l Orga Bicycles BookkeepinAr tis ts Ar ts & Crafts Co mm un ity rpet Cleaning Cater niz ati ons Busin ess g Books & Magazine Contrac tin Gro ups & Se rvi ceing Chat Lines Chee Su pp lies & Se rvi cess se Shops Ch Crises Servig & Renovations Co s Co mp ute r Co ns ult ocolatier Dermatologces & Shelters Cross-okwa re Cosmetic an ts Co ns tru cti ons Gardening y Drag Enter tainm Dressing Dating Se Services Counsellin Graphic De rvices Denta g ent Events & Barbers He sign Services l Services Framing Home Improvalth & Personal Care Grocery Gyms Hair & Posters Furnitur e Remo Health ements & Re Inv nvest es tm pairs Hotels Food & Nutrition Ho val Hair Stylists me en ntt Servi rv ice Illu me ces str s Leather Lif Furnishings Jewelle ators Insura ellerry y Certified/R e Legal Services Lim& Jewellers rs Juice Ba nce Interior Design Kitch che en & Storage egistered Massage ousine Services Lo rs Kit ns ns Lawyers Personal TraMusic Optical ServiMeats & Delicatessencksmiths Massage ces ind s ine Mo ex Op rs rtg dir Pet Care Pe ectory.ctometrists ages Movin Ph ho oto gra ph Or t Sitting &a Plu lum um Publication erss P mb Boarding Peganic Food Paintingg bi b ing i ng g Po liti s Real ti cia t Stores & c ian an ns Re creati ycch Supplies h ho olo t on Re fle Es tate Real Es tate s Pssy log gi gis ist sts ts s P sy Ps xo log y Re Agents Re ycch Cafes Sexu h ho o the he ra rap no al Es tate Inv py y Ta x Se rvi al Counselling Spa va tio ns & Re ssto o rat atiion ce s Te lec Services Tak tor on s Re staes tments Tree Services om mu nic ati ura nts & e Ou t & Delivery Tat on s Tra ns Trophies Up Yoga g Accomm po ho too rta lste ing tio m ry n mo Web Sites od da at ati tion tio on HIV Re nss Accou Weddings Trave l Agen cie s Reso sou co ntan u ces ess A nt ntss Adult Women’s Se Ap par arttm Banking Barrce ultt Advertis me en nts ts Art G ller rvices rti tisin ing g Agencie eriies es A Artt Busin ess &nkruptcy Bars & ClubsGa ciess AID AIDS DS lies Artists S/ / Bicycles Bo Supplies Professio na st Art Butchers Ca rts & Cra ok l kee C fts Or ga pin ts Co mm un ity rpet Cleaning Cater niz ati ons Busin ess g Books & Magazine Contrac tin y Gro ups & Se rvi ceing Chat Lines Chee Su pp lies & Se rvi cess se Shops Ch s Co mp Ren no p ute ov Crises Servig & Re va t ati oco tio r on Co ns lat s ns ier Cookwa re ces & elte Derm Cosmeticc ultan ts Co ns tru cti ons ers r ato rs Cross-Dre tollog D Shelt Serv Se rviice ssing Datineti cces g En E Gardening y Dra g Services ess Counsellin nm me Graphic De ter ttaiinm g ent E Events Fra Dental Servil ling & Barbers He sig Fr F am miing ing & Po ces alth & Person Services Grocery Gy P st ste rs Ho om Fu me nal ms e Imp rnitur mprov t re rove e em me ents & RepaiCare Health Food & NuHair Removal Hair Styitu Inv ve est esstm me lists en rss Hotels Illu trition Home nt n errv rviice ces lus ess Jew str s Leather Lift Se Fur tra ew ato torss Ins nishings el elle ler ery In urance ry y & Jewelle tor e Legal Se nce Int In erior Certifi rs Ju rvices Lim Je rtifie o Desig Juice Ba ed d/ s gn /R B Re eg gis iste Kitch tere che chen red d Meats & ousine Services Lo rss Kit Music Op nss Lawyersn ptic ti tica De tesssen cksm ens Mortg Pet Care Peall Services Optometr licates rtgages Moiths Massage ists Org gan vin ving a icc Food Paage ani Plu mb ing t Sit ting & Boarding g & Storag rage inting Po P e olit liti Pe g icia Pe cia t Sto rso ns EstTO nal res & Supp Ps yc ho log ate ateRO ReNT al al Est O’Sate lies Photo Trainers ist s Psyc ho GAAg AY en Reno & LE BUva h oth graphers ts Re SIN the SBal era tioES IAN rrap l Est te Inv ap ns S&DIR py y Pu P ub Resto ECrat In est blic lica TOion Servi ati stm tio RYs Restaate me men on n s Real nts ts t Recre FALces Take Tak a L 201 l cr e ura O Ou ati 1 ut t nts on Refl xo & Delive Transportati & Cafes Se livery ry Tat lo y log T ooing T xual Counselfle Tax ax Sites Wedd on Travel Agencieatttoo ling Spa ces Tel s Tree Servi Services ings Wome n’s Services ces Trophiesecommunications Yoga Upholstery Web
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HARVEY L. HAMBURG Barrister, Solicitor, Notary Public Many Years of Experience in Real Estate, Wills and Estate Administration
Anna Pournikova Blackcat did a ballsout amazing Labour Day party at Club120 called Go Hard that was off the chain. Here’s just one of the many perfect shots from the dancefloor. Left to right: Finn, Jay, Snoopy and Kash. I’m even into how they’re colour coordinated between the plaid, stripe, Polo and bandannas.
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I actually don’t know these two ladies’ names, but they are so squishably amazing. Look at the smiles on their faces, the ones that Go Hard at Club120 brought out. They’re puppy-mill cute. Yannick is a fan of mine. He said I was “gorgeous” and he wanted to photograph me. That shit has been working on impressionable young girls for decades, and it works on us old broads because we can only dream of being taken advantage of. Also, Yannick is a babe and works that oh-so-trendy septum piercing like it’s totally new and adorable.
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Peter and Drew slayed me dead. Peter’s Friar Tuck bowl cut is the perfect accessory for those high-rise short-shorts, and Drew’s U-neck sack shirt and buzz cut are so dope. This is who I wish I was when I attend all the weddings of my colleagues and peers every summer.
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So Goodhandy’s doesn’t exist anymore. Jamie Cole, Mandy Goodhandy and Ryan Russell ushered in the new spot, Club120, in the only way they know how: with boobie grabs. We’re all about Club120 round here; more dancefloor space and more dancefloor vibes every weekend, instead of just special events. Let’s get ’faced!
This is Madonna. She was so rad. The beginning was a bit violent and I wasn’t into Madonna with guns, but she did such a great job mixing old with new, and the Moment Factory visuals were on point. The costuming and the dancers were mindblowing, as always, and as much as she is old and all that, she gave a level of energy that I could only dream of sustaining for 10 minutes, let alone 2.5 hours. And we found the Golden Triangle (aka the front), where all the queens and queers and fairy dust were. That special place we all call home.
I’ve seen Madonna before, on the last world tour. And I had great seats then, too. But I gotta say, this was the first time that the crowd really seemed old. There were a lot fewer drag queens and fabulous gay male devotees, and there were more suburban mom jeans and stripmall haircuts than I’ve ever seen. Ever. And then Sonja and Nicole appeared like a crystal clear, rushing waterfall in the dry desert crotch of the ACC. They’re sisters. A point they made sure I’d mention.
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Toronto’s gay & lesbian news
XTRA! SEPT 20, 2012 The all new
NIGHTCLUB LISTINGS THURS, SEPT 20
SAT, SEPT 22
Obaaberima Premiere. The Buddies 2012/13 season kicks off with a party following the play by GhanaianCanadian creator/performer Tawiah M’carthy. 8pm. Buddies, 12 Alexander St. PWC–$37. buddiesinbadtimes.com
FRI, SEPT 21
The Big Gay Prom. Heroine Marks presents a first-of-its-kind fundraiser supporting South American and Caribbean orphanages, with queens and performers entertaining in the retro-fitted club. 1980s and ’90s attire encouraged. 9pm. Crews & Tangos, 508 Church St. $5. crewsandtangos.com
AX-A-Gogo. DJ Alex hits the decks, while Sofonda Cox and Jolin Starr drag it on stage and O Nouveau takes the mic, with the AX Maximus Gogo Dancers gyrating. 10pm. Fly, 8 Gloucester St. $5 before 11pm, $10 after. meetmeatax.com
Sin. With DJs Cory Activate and Chez on decks. Everything naughty permitted in the Dark Erotic Lounge. Private rooms free after midnight. 10pm. Flash, 463 Church St. $5 before midnight, $10 after. flashonchurch.com
Toronto Rumble Ball 2. Ballroom runway performances, hosted by Father Marvel and Twisted Monroe. 10pm. Club 120, 120 Church St. $5. club120.ca Boys’ Life Black & Blue Pre-party. DJs Stephan Grondin, Cory Activate and Danny W hit the decks to warm up for the Montreal event. 10pm. Chroma, at the Guvernment, 132 Queen’s Quay E. $10 advance, $15 door before midnight, $20 after. itsaboyslife.eventbrite.ca
For complete listings on the go, scan the QR code below or visit xtra.ca.
SUN, SEPT 23 Salsa Masala. Latin grooves, with DJ daVinci, performances and dance lessons. Each week a community or performance group is featured. 10pm. Crews & Tangos, 508 Church St. No cover. crewsandtangos.com
MON, SEPT 24 Sexy in the Sky. Pop sensation Mayou and TO’s Peter Gail Williams take the mic to celebrate the end of summer, with performances by The House of Monroe, Rainbow Ballroom and Esie Mensah, percussion by Sahab Habibi, Lani and the Moussou Folila drummers, plus five hot DJs on decks. 4pm–2am. Skybar, at the Guvernment, 132 Queen’s Quay E. $20 advance at O’Grady’s on Church, $25 door. theguvernment.com
TUES, SEPT 25 Mile High Tuesdays. DJ Turt McGurt spins top 40 and house. 9pm. Boutique
Bar, 506 Church St. No cover. boutiquebar.ca
SAT, SEPT 29 Club120 Dance. DJ Blackcat spins. 10pm. Club120, 120 Church St. $7 before 11pm, $10 after, $5 students. club120.ca
Varsity Tuesday. So You Think You Can Strip? gets eager amateurs on stage, hosted by Sofonda Cox. 5pm. Remington’s, 379 Yonge St. $5 after 9pm, no cover with student ID. remingtons.com
Pop Machine Turns 2. DJs Alessandro and Shane Percy on the pop decks for the second anniversary. 10pm. WAYLA, 996 Queen St W. $5 before 11pm, $10 after. waylabar.com
WED, SEPT 26
Ax-A-Gogo is Bangout. DJs Sticky Sept 21 at Fly. Cuts and Gasha on decks, with performance by Heaven Lee Hytes. DJ Tony Moran. NYC DJ sensation 10pm. The Brunswick House, 481 Bloor on decks, with DJ Kevin Bailey St W. $5 before 11:30pm, $7 after. representing. 10pm. Fly, 8 Gloucester bangoutproductions.ca St. $10 before 11pm, $15 till 1am, $20 after. flynightclub.com
THURS, SEPT 27
Sports Gear Night. Sweaty jocks and toned athletes strap on their gear for this sports-themed night. 10pm. Black Eagle, 457 Church St. No cover. blackeagletoronto.com
FRI, SEPT 28 Shag Retro Dance Party. Presented by Chris Munro and Dale C, with DJ Cory Activate spinning ’70s, ’80s and ’90s. 10pm. WAYLA, 996 Queen St E. $5. waylabar.com, facebook.com/ shagatwayla Dance Camp: Lucky 7 Anniversary. Recording artist Kristine W takes the stage, with DJ Mark Falco on decks.
is hosting our 6th Annual Fowl Supper fundraiser. Don your best dress-up westerns, bandanas and ten gallon Stetsons and join us...
Cocktails Mix, mingle & bid on your silent auction favourites
10pm. Fly, 8 Gloucester St. $10. flynightclub.com
Grub Games & Variety Show
St. Lawrence Hall, 157 King Street East Tickets - $70 Early B i ’til Oct rd Price $60 clga.ca/fs obe r First!
SUN, SEPT 30 Spearhead’s Annual Thanksgiving Food Drive. Miss Conception’s Stage to Screen Show at 6pm; Day-Rama Show, with Donnarama and Georgie Girl, at 9pm; Georgie Girl and Donnarama welcome Sofonda, Amanda Roberts and Nicolette Brown, with Lexi Tellings singing live, at 11pm. Woody’s, 465 Church St. woodystoronto.com
MON, OCT 1 Glitz & Glam. With Carlotta Carlisle, Katinka Kature and DJ tothestarz every Monday. 9–11:30pm. Crews & Tangos, 508 Church St. No cover. crewsandtangos.com
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XTRA! SEPT 20, 2012
For more listings, go to xtra.ca
CRIMINAL DEFENCE LAWYER
ART & PHOTOGRAPHY Lucky 13 OCAD University’s interdisciplinary master’s of art, media and design class of 2013 unveils a diverse show using jewellery design, architecture, installation and more. Featuring new works by Andy Fabo, Alexis Boyle, Alex Haagaard, Andrew Zealley and more. Runs Thurs, Sept 20–Wed, Sept 26. The Gladstone Hotel, 1214 Queen St W. Free. gladstonehotel.com
Abilities Arts Festival Celebrating its 10th year, this progressive, multidisciplinary arts festival showcases work for and about artists with disabilities. Featuring new work by Jan Derbyshire, David Roche, Martin Deschamps and others. Runs Thurs, Sept 20–Thurs, Oct 11. Full details available online. abilitiesartsfestival.org
Pushing Buttons Several decades of queer-focused pins archived through digital and print mediums populate this inventive exhibition. The stories behind individual pins have been curated and will be told in person. Opening reception Fri, Sept 28, 7:30–10pm. Runs till Mon, Oct 22. Canadian Lesbian and Gay Archives, 34 Isabella St. Free. pinbuttons.ca
Nuit Blanche More than 150 contemporary art projects light up the city in this sundown-to-sunrise extravaganza at venues scattered across downtown. Put a flask in your purse and hit the streets. Sat, Sept 29, 7:03pm. Free. scotiabanknuitblanche.ca
Night Kitchen Under the Tabletop Artists Cheryl L’Hirondelle, Christina Zeidler and Sean Procyk create an engaging show inspired by the late and legendary gay writer Maurice Sendak. The artists use cooking and digestion as metaphors and reflect on institutional processes, hierarchy and identities. Sat, Sept 29, 7:03pm. OCAD, 100 McCaul St. Free. scotiabanknuitblanche.ca
Untie your inhibitions with the help of Taoist erotic massage and Phillip Coupal. Open yourself up with this unique opportunity to experience full-body exploration, trance and effective deepbreathing techniques. Fri, Sept 21, 7–10pm; Sat, Sept 22 and Sun, Sept 23, 9:30am–7pm. Awaken Studio, 270 Carlaw Ave. $295. phillipcoupal.ca
Sexy in the Sky Wet Entertainment Toronto presents a sultry and decadent late-afternoon to early-morning party to bid adieu to summer. Join a wide selection of artists and performers as they strut their stuff and welcome fall with open legs. Five DJs spin this rooftop fête, with wet T-shirt contests, the beats of the Moussou Folila drumming group, irresistible go-go dancers, an appearance by pop artist Mayou and much more. Mon, Sept 24, 4pm– 2am. The Guvernment, 132 Queen’s Quay E. $25 door, $20 advance.
High Holy Days at Congregation Shir Libeynu This inclusive and non-judgmental congregation celebrates the eve of Yom Kippur, Yom Kippur morning and Neilah. We are family. Tues, Sept 25, 7pm; Wed, Sept 26, 10am and 6:45pm. First Unitarian Congregation, 175 St Clair Ave W. shirlibeynu.ca The Bay’s fall fashion preview is Sept 27.
FILM & VIDEO Against a Trans Narrative The Trans Film Screening Series hosts a screening of Jules Rosskam’s genre-bending film that instigates a dialogue between queers, feminists and trans folk through use of faked audition tapes, diary footage and roundtable discussions. Discussion to follow. Mon, Sept 24, 6pm. William Doo Auditorium, 45 Willcocks St. Free. againstatransnarrative.com
HEALTH & ISSUES Bisexual Men of Toronto A peer-support group for bisexual and questioning men and an opportunity to discuss the unique challenges and stigmas inside and outside the community. Tues, Sept 25, 8–9:30pm. Sherbourne Health Centre, 333 Sherbourne Ave. Free. bimot.ca
My professional life is dedicated to fortifying, safeguarding, and championing my clients. For 19 years, I’ve been fighting and winning criminal cases. When I commit to your case, I will personally evaluate the evidence, answer all your questions, and build an organized, aggressive, and gripping defence strategy. While I can never guarantee or predict the outcome of any case, I can promise two things: I will be honest and up front at all times; and I will do everything in my power to win your case.
Andy Fabo’s work will be featured at Lucky 13.
LEISURE & PLEASURE Experimental Erotic Embodiment Workshop
Fall Fashion Preview Make it work. Vaughn Stafford Gray hosts a glamorous evening with personal shoppers and style experts from the Hudson’s Bay Company. Be the first to know what’s on trend this season and sip cocktails with Toronto’s gay glitterati. Scalp massage available courtesy of John Allan’s Club. Thurs, Sept 27, 6–9pm. The Bay, 176 Yonge St. $125 membership. torontogayprofessionals.com › continued on page 22
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CRAIG PENNEY
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To witness my winning strategies, I invite you to review my extensive videos, testimionials, and case profiles on-line:
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22
Toronto’s gay & lesbian news
XTRA! SEPT 20, 2012
listings › › continued from page 21
LEISURE & PLEASURE (CONTINUED)
Culture Days Toronto Public Library presents more than 40 hands-on arts activities at various TPL locations across the city. Artists are encouraged to bring their own work and connect directly with the public. Fri, Sept 28–Sun, Sept 30. Free. torontopubliclibrary.ca/culturedays
Chubs at the Tubs Fat-bottomed boys, you make the rocking world go round. Come dive into an evening of big boys and their admirers. Sun, Sept 30, 3–7pm. Spa Excess, 105 Carlton St. Regular rates apply. spaexcess.com
Pie in the Sky Get a head start on preparing your Thanksgiving feast by purchasing a pie — with all proceeds going to the Toronto People with AIDS Foundation’s food program. Mon, Sept 24–Sun, Sept 30, 9am–10pm. Whole Foods Market, 87 Avenue Rd. $8–20. pieinthesky.org
For more listings, go to xtra.ca
PRINT & READINGS Impossible Words This new reading series focuses on Canadian authors representing myriad backgrounds, genders and sexual identities. Writer and performer Mariko Tamaki reads from her new graphic novel, (You) Set Me on Fire! Sat, Sept 22, 1:30–3:30pm. The Academy of the Impossible, 231 Wallace Ave. Free. impossiblewords.ca
Recovering Albertans Launch Party Transgender indie electronica singer/ songwriter Rae Spoon sets free a first book, First Spring Grass Fire, with a bang. The multidisciplinary artist is joined by fellow Albertan and artist Vivek Shraya. Presented by The Crush Project. Thurs, Sept 27, 7:30–11pm. The Gladstone Hotel, 1214 Queen St W. $10. gladstonehotel.com
STAGE The Well of Truth/ The Grain of Loneliness: A Gay Children’s Hour Fantasia on Lesbian Themes A staged reading of a parody of The Children’s Hour by S McDonald and David Bateman. Leave the bunker and invest in a night of facetious laughter. Sat, Sept 22, 7pm. 189 Mutual St. PWYC.
Antony and Cleopatra Shakespeare’s classic tragedy about love and triumph is retold, unearthing
ENTER FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN Live Nation & Xtra want to send you and a friend to see The Gossip LIVE at the Phoenix on September 29th @ 8pm! To enter, send your name and contact info to contest@xtra.ca by September 26th. Some restrictions apply. Only winners will be contacted.
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Vivek Shraya takes part in the Recovering Albertans Launch Party on Sept 27. the play’s strong themes of girl power. Runs Wed, Sept 26–Sun, Oct 6, 8pm. Buddies in Bad Times Theatre, 12 Alexander St. $20–25, Fri PWYC. buddiesinbadtimes.com
Avenue Q The story of Princeton, the naive but well-intended college graduate who gets swallowed by the New York streets, continues to entertain. Runs till Sun, Oct 7, various showtimes. Lower Ossington Theatre, 100A Ossington Ave. $49–60. lowerossingtontheatre.com
MUSIC Vincent Wolfe Duo Kick back with drinks and a date and savour the cabaret performer’s silky vocals. Special guest Mark Kieswetter. Sat, Oct 6, 7–10pm. Fraticelli’s, 10 Vogell Rd, Richmond Hill. Free. fraticellis.ca
more at xtra.ca
XTRA! SEPT 20, 2012
Toronto’s online directory of gay-owned and gay-friendly businesses
indexdirectory.ca
indexdirectory.ca ACCOMMODATIONS - BRITISH COLUMBIA The Eagle’s Nest B&B
866-766-9350
FOUNDATION REPAIRS
ORGANIC FOOD
G J MacRae Foundation Repair Service
Front Door Organics 905-824-2557
ACCOMMODATIONS - ONTARIO
FUNERAL SERVICES
Holiday Inn 416-542-6008 Neill-Wycik Summer Hotel 416-977-2320 Trinity House Inn 1-800-265-4871
Morley Bedford Funeral Services
ACCOUNTANTS
The Cliffside Carpenter
Hema Murdock C.A.
416-696-6653
ADULT Stag Shop
416-323-0771
ADVERTISING
FURNITURE - CUSTOM 416-266-4674
GARDENING 416-929-7222
HAIR REMOVAL LJ’s Laser Hair Removal Clinic 647-971-9855 Hamilton location 289-237-7089
raymondhelkio.com
AIDS/HIV RESOURCES 416-850-3795 647-291-0420
ALTERNATIVE HEALTH mycm.ca 647-348-0104
Front Door Organics The Big Carrot
ART GALLERIES ARTS & CRAFTS Wise Daughters Craft Market 416-761-1555
AUTOMOTIVE SALES & LEASING 905-886-3380 xt 17309
BARS & CLUBS (TORONTO) Fly Nightclub Woody’s / Sailor
416-410-5426 416-972-0887
St Jamestown Steaks & Chops 416-925-7665 416-266-4674
CHEESE SHOPS 416-465-7143
CHIROPRACTORS gesund
416-913-5170
HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING 360 Living Inc
HOME IMPROVEMENT & REPAIRS Bryant Renovations G J MacRae Foundation Repair Service Newbright Construction
416-494-9371
CLEANING & MAID SERVICES 647-448-5213
COMMUNITY GROUPS & SERVICES Canadian Lesbian & Gay Archives (CLGA) Enterprise Toronto
416-777-2755 416-392-6646
COMPUTER SALES & SERVICE Around The Clock I.T. Solutions 416-657-4395 Contemporary Computers 1-877-724-9000
CONCRETE - CONTRACTORS G J MacRae Foundation Repair Service
647-287-1962
905-824-2557
INVESTMENT SERVICES Kenton Waterman, Investors Group Financial Services 416-860-1668
JUICE BARS
416-445-8439
Abrams & Krochak 416-482-3387 xt 22 Adam Weisberg 416-603-3344 Cynthia Borovoy Warren 416-964-0900 David M. Cohn 416-777-1100 Harvey L Hamburg 416-968-9054 Janice P Warren 416-323-7767 Kirk J. Cooper 416-923-4277 Law Office of El-Farouk Khaki 416-925-7227 Michael Battista 416-203-2899 Morzaria Law 647-259-1990 Paul T. Willis 416-926-9806 Robert G Coates 416-925-6490 Zubas + Associates Employment Law 416-593-5844
LEATHER LIFE
G J MacRae Foundation Repair Service Newbright Construction
416-504-8888
LEGAL SERVICES Craig Penney
MAIL & COURIER SERVICES
COSMETIC SERVICES 416-968-6437
COUNSELLING Becky Liddle Change4U2 David W Routledge Phillip Coupal Counselling
647-989-1555 416-827-7578 416-944-1291 416-557-7312
DENTAL SERVICES Adelaide Dental 416-429-0150 Dr Kevin Russelo & Associates 416-966-0117 Galleria Dental 416-534-9991 Yonge & Bloor Dental 647-350-3501
DOG & CAT GROOMING Tailspin Dog Spa
416-920-7387
DRAG Take a Walk on the Wildside
416-921-6112
ENTERTAINMENT Village Vapor Lounge
416-972-9500
FIREPLACES 360 Living Inc
416-410-2266
The UPS Store
416-966-3008
Tailspin Dog Spa
416-504-1265 416-967-9221
PHYSICIANS Dr David W Grossman Becky Liddle
416-968-6437 647-989-1555 647-989-1555 416-598-4888 416-921-8629
PUBLICATIONS Fab Magazine Xtra (Toronto) Lee Caswell Leon Belov Louis Amaral
416-625-6665 416-925-6665 905-373-2236 416-703-0600 416-200-0969
REAL ESTATE AGENTS Gaelen Patrick Joe Sipione,
416-801-9265 416-720-6611
RENOVATIONS & RESTORATIONS 416-260-0818
MEATS & DELICATESSENS 416-925-7665
416-596-7515 416-323-0772
SHIPPING The UPS Store
scienceofillusion.com
MORTGAGES
SPA SERVICES LJ’s Laser Hair Removal Clinic 647-971-9855 Hamilton location 289-237-7089
T-SHIRTS Gemini Tees
TAX SERVICES 647-270-8057
THEATRE Buddies in Bad Times Theatre 416-975-8555
TRAVEL AGENCIES Travel ABC
800-665-3769
Kelly’s Tree Care Ltd Sunset Beech Tree Care
416-462-0007 647-989-3509
416-750-9097
Dr Jason Hershorn
OPTOMETRISTS 416-922-5511
Please visit our website: www.gayfathers-toronto.com
Blue Cross Animal Hospital
416-469-1121
WATERPROOFING G J MacRae Foundation Repair Service
905-824-2557
WEBSITES Guidemag.com Squirt.org Xtra.ca
REAL ESTATE › EAST YORK, VIC. PK & St Clair. Beautiful, spacious 3 Bdrm Main Flr w/ Jacuzzi, Garage + parking, Laundry, TTC, shops. $1450 plus utilities Call Brent: (416)886-8443
PRIVATE LOT $169,900
1&1/2 HRS FROM Toronto4 BEDROOMS; UPDATED OPEN CONCEPT KITCHEN/LIVING ROOM;FLOOR TO CEILING FIREPLACE; NEWER VINYL PLANK FLOORING;HALF ACRE LOT;BACKS ONTO WATERFRONT PARK-5 MIN. WALK TO BEACH;CALL KAREN MATZ, RE/MAX GEORGIAN BAY REALTY LTD. AT 705-543-1387 - MLS 20121730 !
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VETERINARIANS
416-913-5170
Our meetings are informal, confidential and very helpful. We’re here to support you on your journey.
Cottages 647-350-8456
Re-Wrap Custom Upholstery 416-214-6400
gesund
The 519 Church Street Community Centre Room 304
416-768-5755
TANNING SALONS
MOVING & STORAGE
416-920-7200
Gay Fathers meets at 8 PM the second and fourth Thursday of each month:
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Homes for rent
UPHOLSTERY
416-654-5029 416-239-9565 416-259-2181 416-823-7512
MARRIED? DIVORCED? GAY? BI? HAVE CHILDREN?
416-201-3000
Ontario-Wide Financial Corp 416-925-3974 Agility Moving & Storage Ltd Avery Moving & Storage Manhattan Movers Marsh Movers
Notices
416-966-3008
TREE SERVICES
MENTALIST
He is survived by his partner, Alan Macdonald, and 9 siblings. Memorial service to be announced at a later date.
Commemorate those who have recently passed away. This space is donated by Xtra. Call 416-644-5214 for more information. Please limit text to 50 words or less. Ideally, photos will be digital images at 2” x 3” with a resolution of 250dpi.
SEX SHOPS Condom Shack Stag Shop
CJH Tax Services
St Jamestown Steaks & Chops
John was a gay serving member during the period when this orientation could mean the End of a CF member’s career, but he worked and lived to see the CF change it’s policy on homosexuality in 1993. During the 1980’s, John was very active in the Church/Wellesley community, and will be remembered by many from that period.
PROUD LIVES
RESTAURANTS & CAFÉS C’est What? Brew/ Vin Pub Restaurant 416-867-9499 Cora Breakfast & Lunch Carlton St 416-340-1350 Wellington St 416-598-2672 Fire on the East Side 416-960-3473 Hair of the Dog 416-964-2708 The Blake House 416-975-1867 The Churchmouse & Firkin 416-927-1735
Etai Tintpulver gesund Patrick Reilly, RMT The Power of Touch.com
416-319-9171 416-913-5170 647-955-0723 647-330-2539
John died peacefully at his home in CFB Borden of liver failure. He had a lengthy career as a member of the CF, starting in 1969. In 1973, he remustered to Food Services, and continued to work as a chef-consultant and caterer after his retirement from the CF in 1997. In Toronto, he worked for clients such as Sir Richard Branson, among others.
PSYCHOTHERAPY Becky Liddle Bruce M. Small Jude Johnston
Afterglo Tan Bar
Dr Robert Ing
416-699-9955
PHARMACIES The Village Pharmacy
JOHN JOSEPH MOLONEY May 23, 1948 - August 20, 2012
PET STORES & SUPPLIES Helmutt’s Pet Supply
PROUDLIFE
416-920-7387
PET MORTUARIES & CREMATORIES Pets At Peace
MASSAGE CERTIFIED/REGISTERED
NATUROPATHY
FLOORING Craftwood Flooring
PET CARE
Front Door Organics
CONTRACTING & RENOVATIONS
Dr David W Grossman
416-843-1318
SHOPPING
G J MacRae Foundation Repair Service
905-824-2557
Crewman & Co
Bryant Renovations
LAWYERS
Doc’s Leathers & Motorcycle Gear
905-824-2557 416-985-8639
416-924-4671
Clearview Institute
CONSTRUCTION
PARTY PLANNERS
REAL ESTATE
Kenton Waterman, Investors Group Financial Services 416-860-1668
LASER EYE SURGERY
CondoFresh
905-824-2557 416-985-8639
Meticulous Inspections, Inc
Metropolitan Community Church of Toronto Rainbow/Carlton Cinemas
416-260-0818
In memoriam
647-588-1774 416-985-8639 416-449-6204
PSYCHOLOGISTS 416-920-7200
Juice Box 416-406-6228
CM Painting & Decorating Newbright Painting Performance Painters
Michael Mooney Photography mooneyphoto.ca 416-201-3000 416-466-2129
CHURCHES
CINEMAS
416-201-3000
To place an ad, call 416-925-6665 xt 0 or book your line classified at xtra.ca
PAINTING
PHOTOGRAPHERS
INSURANCE
CARPENTERS
Leslieville Cheese Market
416-201-3000
HOME INSPECTION SERVICES
BUTCHERS
The Cliffside Carpenter
HEALTH & PERSONAL CARE Front Door Organics
HEALTH FOODS & NUTRITION
My CannaMeds Akasha Art Projects
HAIR STYLISTS & BARBERS Ragga Hair and Beauty Salon 416-368-8113
Canadian Seed Exchange Medical Compassion Clinic
BMW Autohaus
416-489-8733
Davenport Garden Centre
Raymond Helkio Advertising /Design
23
guidemag.com squirt.org xtra.ca
SCHOOLHOUSE $229,900
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Job Opportunity: Sales Associate At Shelter, we do not focus on being the biggest nor selling the most; we prefer to think Small, Intimate, Sophisticated, Cultured, Unique and Focused. Compromising is not part of our vocabulary; we never put out a tasteless design for the sake of appealing to a wider audience. Like you, we are different and have no desire to conform. If you like the sound of our direction, we have an opportunity for you. If you’re considering retail as a career, are enthusiastic, hard-working and have a passion for design, Shelter is interested in you.
Contact: careers@shelterfurniture.ca
Help wanted GREAT CLEANERS REQUIRED . If you are detail oriented,reliable and have a great attitude we are interested in interviewing you. We offer very good hourly wage, paid training , and a great work environment. We do not pay cash. We are interested in hiring professional residential cleaners who want to work for a professional company. 416-691-9221
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Toronto’s gay & lesbian news
XTRA! SEPT 20, 2012
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES › Counselling
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XTRA! SEPT 20, 2012
25
SEXUAL HEALTH
HEALTH & FITNESS › Massage certified
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BRENT ROUSSEAU RMT For treatment of muscle injuries, pain and stress management, and enhancement of physical health and well being. Day, evening, and weekend appts. available. Insurance coverage, Visa accepted, free parking, 416-708-3996. Broadview/Danforth. brentrousseau.com
HEADtoFITA MASSAGE THERAPIES Frank Fita RMT offering Swedish, Lastone hot-stone, Thai-yoga massages. Specializing in treatments for work-related and sports injuries. headtofita.com Across from Wellesley subway. For appointment or info call 416-473-0065.
TRAVEL ›
FREE MASSAGE if you have HIV/AIDS. Compassionate and Caring Professional wants you! NSA! Details at http://m4mmassagetoronto.com /IKnowSomeone.html, OR call 416-697-3408 to donate to this invaluable service. KEVIN SHORTT MASSAGE and Yoga Therapy: sensual, intimate bodywork with stretching. $15 off First Time Clients! Check out my website: www3.sympatico.ca/kshortt 416-961-8064
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This is not a test Porndoggy Jeremy Feist
F
OR ALL THE GOOD THE internet has done — what with its limitless amount of instant knowledge and endless supply of dick pics — it’s also had some rather unfortunate, unintended consequences: specifically, the enabling of hypochondriacs everywhere. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve gone on to WebMD because of minor symptoms and walked away convinced I had Ebola. Yet for all the information available to us, there’s still a rather noticeable dearth in society’s understanding of how STIs are transmitted and treated. I’m just saying, when I have to explain to someone 10 years my senior that a regular condom prevents the transmission of HIV and I don’t need to wear “some sort of super-condom” (his words, not mine) when I have sex with someone who’s positive, something’s fucked up. Recently, Tracy Clark-Flory of Salon wrote about the rising trend of mandatory STI testing in gay porn. The old standard used to be that gay porn was all about condoms without mandatory testing, while straight porn was the inverse: Condoms, boo! Testing, yay! But with more gay porn sites being owned by straight parent companies nowadays, mandatory
Sean Cody released its first bareback scene in December 2011. It has since posted many more, including this one with Aidan and Joshua.
testing is more common in the world of gay porn. In a theoretical, perfect universe (let’s call it Earth 2), this would be a good thing, right? After all, getting tested regularly is part of being a responsible, sexually active adult, and combining testing with proven science and modern medicine ensures that common sense dictates how things are run, rather than paranoid poz-phobia. The only problem with that, if my complete lack of subtlety hasn’t clued you in, is that we don’t live on Earth 2. Consider this, if you will: a typical safe-sex porn scene involves any combination of kissing, unprotected oral, unprotected rimming, protected
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NEXT CLASSIFIED DEADLINE: FOR ISSUE #729: MON, OCT 1 @ 1PM
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Jeremy Feist is a Toronto pornstar. Porndoggy appears in every issue of Xtra.
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anal and then cumshot. The odds of contracting HIV from this setup are actually rather low since the primary modes of transmission are blood or semen coming into direct contact with the blood stream or mucous membranes (both located in the anus), which is protected quite efficiently by, you guessed it, condoms. Diseases that can be quite easily transmitted through scenes like this include herpes, chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis and hepatitis. Yet the focus is still on HIV. Furthermore, since HIV shows up on tests only after a three-month window, these tests prove only that the performer hasn’t sero-converted at that moment, and the test becomes less accurate with every minute that goes by. Thanks to this three-month window, tests essentially become security blankets, rather than an effective method to prevent transmission. Should performers be getting tested regularly for STIs? Of course they should. Anyone who is sexually active should be getting tested. Should said testing be mandatory and controlled by the industry? Not so much. I’m sure studios have good intentions here, but performers should be taking medical advice from trained medical professionals. Ultimately, the best defence against infection, more so than testing and even condoms, is knowledge.
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