Thursday, November 12, 2009

Vancouver's Next Gay Top Model

See my latest article here. Anyone interested in watching eye candy?!

Wednesday, November 11, 2009

Vulture Culture

I find it astonishing what people believe as reported in the media. Much of what we read in the media is often of scandal, despair, hopelessness and fear; I call it Vulture Culture. Recently, I have noticed this as it relates to the H1N1 hype within the past few months. Now, health officials' estimate 97% of the diagnosed cases of influenza are H1N1. Here is my take on the Vulture Culture of H1N1.

1. STAGE ONE - HYSTERIA: WHO (World Health Organization) releases a travel advisory because OMG we are ALL going to die. Stay home, the world is over, this is Armageddon!!! If you value any kind of future, do not leave your home, stock-pile supplies and for goodness sake, don't travel anywhere, wash your hands and whatever you do, avoid pork and pork bi-products at all costs.
2. STAGE TWO - PANIC: Only half of the population will die; cease shaking hands, avoid personal contact with strangers and axe teammanship at youth sporting events in the form of hugging or kissing! Reduce time spent in public places and participate in only necessary business travel. Be at your own risk of consuming pork products.
3. STAGE THREE - DANCING WITH THE STARS SEASON PREMIER: OK, only a chosen few will succumb to this virus. Make sure you execute all possible manoeuvres to acquire a place in the inoculation line ups at designated public centres. Please be advised this may expose you to others with the virus of which are not showing symptoms. Special exceptions for the vaccination will be offered to Calgary Flames hockey players or people of upper social significance or wealth. Pork; what did that have to do with H1N1 anyway?!
4. STAGE FOUR - WHAT WERE THEY THINKING? The H1N1 symptoms are similar to those of the seasonal flu. For most healthy bodies, you are not required to seek medical attention and most physicians are diagnosing via phone to reduce cross infection in medical centres. Ensure you get lots of rest and consume a large level of non-alcoholic fluids. Enjoy a nourishing ham and scalloped potato dinner.

Wednesday, November 4, 2009

First five countries to legalize same-sex unions

See my latest article on examiner.com here.

Gays of our Lives

Click here to see CNN’s Anderson Cooper’s coverage of the rejection of Maine’s same-sex union law today.

I have always felt blessed for everything I have in my life; good and bad. No matter how bad any situation is, I know that even the worst of situations WILL get better. There is a strong possibility it may get worst before it gets better; but things will always get better. I have been blessed with health, success, happiness, love and above all, the freedom to choose and make decisions impacting my life and my future.

Today upon hearing the rejection of a same-sex union law in the state of Maine, I felt very sad. Sad for those that live with persecution of not being entitled to a lifestyle they so desire. Who are we to judge and create laws contrary to everything we so desire for ourselves, and those around us? Who are we to restrict unions of love, respect and dignity? Who are we to create unlawfulness of consenting adults wishing to share a lifetime of partnership?

Having been blessed with a life of so many unique and beautiful opportunities and choices, I have been tremendously privileged to have traveled the world. While traveling the globe, it was with great admiration to which North Americans were revered as the epitome of liberation, innovative and freedom of speech. Yet as we witness the lack of freedom entitled to LGBT persons to whom they may not lawfully marry, it makes me distraught and sadden for the barbaric persecution we cast upon their lifestyle.

LGBT persons will live a long and prosperous life with or without the lawful right to marry. I am so very proud for the LGBT people in my life. Scientists, journalists, stage directors, chefs, and lawyers are just a few of the most successful LGBT people I adore and love in my circle of friends. Their contributions to society and community are invaluable and endless. Life is so very precious and too short for needless inhibitions and boundaries for which we may share our matrimonial vows. Love everyone. Love the Gays of our Lives.

Vancouver's Davie Village

As featured on Examiner.com. Click here to see the original article. Sigin up as a subscriber for more LGBT lifestyle features from me!

Although the leaves are falling and the signs of summer are distant on the horizon, Vancouver's Davie Village is lively with distinctive and vibrant venues for those seeking a little more personal, human contact and a break from their computer screen during the gay days of autumn, and for any budget.

The Davie Village neighbourhood was incorporated in 1999 and encompasses the West End communities bordering Davie from Denman Street to Pacific Boulevard. At the centre of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender, (LGBT), community, the memorable pink bus stops, rainbow banners, jewel-toned foliage, distinctive shopping, dining, and nightclubs make this a fascinating destination anytime of year.


Tops & Bottoms
The Juniper Café, 1216 Bute Street
The Juniper Café has played host to distinctive events over the years so it is suiting they host Canada's only queer improve. Tops & Bottoms is held every Monday at 7:00pm and offers a well-deserved humourous evening, even for the most discerning comedy aficionado. Free admission.


FreQueency
The Odyssey Nightclub, 1251 Howe Street
Stressing the queen in FreQueency, this affair promises to bring out your inner drag queen choreographed to the latest top 40 hits and drag queens. The Odyssey is an iconic West End nightclub where you will find sexy, young gay men with their beautiful entourage. FreQueency is a great place to be mesmerized by live drag talent, catch up on drag beauty tips and view the latest drag cat-walk fashions. Not for the early to bed; Tuesdays starting at 11:00pm.


Toolbox Wednesdays
Pumpjack Pub, 1167 Davie Street
Affectionately referred to as the gay version of home shows, a fun environment to discover the latest in adult toys and gadgets to add to your "toolbox". The relaxed atmosphere may even add to finding a friend or two to play with your newest acquisitions. Wednesdays at 9:00pm.


Watch Out For Bears!
Numbers Cabaret, 1042 Davie Street
We are not referring to the bears most of us run the other way upon sighting but rather the ultra sexy, fur-adorned gay men and their admirers. Held every Thursday, 8:00pm to 12:00 am, an opportunity to be up close and personal with bears in a relaxed atmosphere with wacky contests throughout the evening. A $3 cover charge applies.

Hamburger Mary's
1202 Davie Street
Located on the dynamic corner of Davie and Bute, Mary's as she is affectionately referred to by locals has been an icon in the community since 1979. Open 20 hours a day, 365 days a year, Mary's plays host to drag queens pre and post shows, the late night party goers and those just looking for a place to hang. Whether a mouth-watering burger, home-made soup or one of their signature milkshakes, Mary's never disappoints and is the perfect place any day or night. Menu items from $3 & up.

For further information on LGBT events in Davie Village, please visit www.gayvan.com or www.gayvancouver.net.