Bitter feud erupts over Calgary Pride
ALBERTA / Event organizer takes on club owner
Kaj Hasselriis / National / Tuesday, September 01, 2009
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DIVIDED. Calgary Pride is locked in a dispute with the owner of Twisted Element, the city's largest gay dance club. Pictured above: Calgary Pride 2008.
(Arthur McComish photo)
With less than a week to go before Calgary Pride, the organizer of the event and the owner of the biggest gay business in the city are locked in an ugly fight.

"This isn't what Pride is supposed to be all about," says Sam Casselman, president of Calgary Pride's volunteer board.

"I'm not the bully they're making me out to be," counters RJ Fafard, owner of Calgary's largest gay dance club, Twisted Element.

A few days ago, the Calgary Pride committee sent a letter to all its sponsors, warning them that Fafard was spreading "misinformation" about this weekend's events. According to Casselman, Fafard called at least two of the sponsors, the Calgary Sexual Health Centre and Energy FM. Neither sponsor returned Xtra.ca's calls for an interview.

Fafard says he called them to complain that Calgary Pride posters were littering his club's parking lot. Casselman says the committee steered clear of his property.

Casselman points to Fafard's recent Facebook updates as evidence that he's spreading "misinformation."

One of Fafard's updates says, "Welcome to Calgary's first Straight Pride. Has anyone wondered why there are no gay sponsors?" Casselman claims that Fafard has also been taking the stage at his business to spread the same message to clubgoers.

Out of the 12 sponsors listed on Calgary Pride's website, four are gay-owned businesses, one is a non-profit organization and one is a labour union.

Fafard says that Twisted Element won't be entering a float in this Sunday's parade and names several other gay-owned businesses that won't be, either. Casselman confirms that they include Outlooks magazine, Priape men's wear, the Texas Lounge and the Backlot, but says she still expects more than 30 floats.

Another dispute between Casselman and Fafard stems from the location of this Saturday night's Calgary Pride fundraising party. Called Ignite, it's taking place at Belgo, a large club that's owned and operated by Penny Lane Entertainment Group, a company that operates many straight bars in the city. Casselman says Penny Lane is keeping all the drink sales while the Pride committee pockets the $20 cover charge.

Fafard says gay and lesbian Pride-goers shouldn't raise money at a straight space. "I believe that gay money should be spent at gay places when possible," he says. "It makes us stronger."

According to Casselman, "Pride is about everybody — gay, straight and everyone in between."

"We desperately need this event in order to put on the Pride parade and the street festival," says Casselman, adding that if all 1,000 tickets are sold, the committee will make $20,000.

Furthermore, she says the only gay-owned venue in Calgary big enough for the Pride fundraiser is Fafard's club, but he won't help the committee. When she introduced herself to him several months ago and asked for his help, she says he refused. "The reception I got from him was very cold and rude."

Fafard says he's never met Casselman. "We were never approached to do anything," he says. He claims the Pride committee is not registered and not "a legitimate corporation."

Casselman rejects the claims. "I can send you the paperwork," she says. "We're a non-profit with the Alberta seal of approval. We're totally open. We have nothing to hide. If he would talk to us he would know all this."

Xtra.ca confirmed through an Alberta Registries agent that the Pride Calgary Planning Committee was registered as an incorporated society in Mar 2009.

Casselman feels she has no choice but to go public about her dispute with Fafard. "I tried to resolve it professionally and amicably," she says. "Now we need to be vocal and talk about this and get it out in the open."

"I'm one of the nicest guys," says Fafard, "but the bitterness has got to the point where I feel like leaving." He says he is considering selling his nightclub.

"Nobody wants him to leave," says Casselman. "I just want him to stop bashing Pride. This is really sad for the community."

Read more:
Pride Calgary.
Sep 5-6.
Pridecalgary.ca.


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Reader Comments


 
Ashamed of Pride
Seeing as Twisted Element is the ONLY gay bar left as others have closed down or sold to the straight community. (Boyztown Metro) which was the best Gay bar when I was living in Calgary. I think that Mr Fafard should sell Twisted to someone who cares about what Gays, Bi, Straight go to. He doesn't care, he only is interested in the money. Most people that go to Twisted are twinkies. Thats what I saw when I was there last month. Wall to wall twinkies.Maybe it was one of those nights for the younger guys, but hey what am I.. 28. Vancouver has more gay bars, but I still like visiting Twisted.
cam, vancouver BC
09/01/09 4:52 PM EST
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Twisted Twisting Pride
While I enjoy my ocassional Friday night at Twisted, the reality is we've all heard about RJ's attitudes. Hell, he quashed the queer club proposal for Inglewood by convincing people that it would be close to a 'biker bar'. You know the one - Kane's Diner, the Harley-Davidson themed FAMILY DINER. This may indeed be the last straw for me and mine. I think we're done with Twisted, RJ, and all the undermining. Our community needs to support it's members - all of them. RJ's actions and attitude are far from supportive. It's really a shame that instead of focusing on making his club excellent and welcoming, he's focused on eliminating competition and pushing others down in order to feel superior. Don't get me wrong, there are challenges within any community, but overall Calgary's LGBT community sets them aside when it comes to Pride and other positive actions. Let's put the focus where it belongs - acceptance and tolerance.
Lady Seraphina, Calgary Alberta
09/01/09 5:13 PM EST
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Collaboration over Competition!
I think overall there is just a serious lack of communication! The new pride board is running with stories they've heard in the past and to be honest they are all quite young and newer to the community... the history isn't always in the forefront of their minds... I am disapointed that the community is so divided. I whole gheartedly believe pinning that all on RJ is a stretch to say the least! having worked in the glbtq community in Calgary I know first hand how hard it is to balance all the egos and ideas... pride is just as bad.. hell all the community partners are guilty of it to a certain extent! but the media games of the "he said / she said" is just getting childish. I think PrideCalgary needs a well mediated post mortim discussion this year... no tempers... no yelling a respectful discussion about our community as a whole. A little more diversity on the board would be nice to see aswell. :) Happy PRIDE Caglary
Jason, Ottawa (Former Calgarian) Ontario
09/01/09 6:33 PM EST
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The truth behind Pride
It's easy to say it's Pride's fault, that they're young, and that there's no diversity. And yet, where's that diversity when the AGM is being held? Where's that diversity when they're trying to form a board? When they go to different parts of the community to work with and promote Pride. Pride has gone, and set aside anything that was in the past, egos aside, and asked Twisted if they wanted to help. They're the ones that said no because of people they had a problem in the past. Considering that this was a new board and wanting to start fresh... That didn't help at all. It seem Jason, you seem to be just as caught up in there heresay. Mediation is fine, bring it. Just how about this diversity in being on the board shows up as well. Everyone wants a Pride. But no one wants to do the work.
Kara, Calgary AB
09/01/09 6:41 PM EST
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PRIDE in Alberta...right!
It does not strike me as strange and strengthens my viewpoint of being cautious to naivly offer up gay pride anymore now a days, especially in Alberta.It used to mean taking a stance for diversity, standing up for equal rights & allowing certain freedoms.This province with this issue proves all my points.Nowhere better to manipulate the system, fight about power & pride than Calgary.It will boil down to who the richest man is. The legal system has it down to an art in Alberta.Having invested a few hundred thousand into Alberta for my own issue I feel I have a valid point.I don't go to any pride events any more than I will for Canada day as I've been sorely disheartened in learning the truth as a gay man in this country and province.If gay pride means going it alone, making sacrifices, asking help from others in vain, being attacked, threatened and ruined then by all means lets all show our pride and reap the rewards in a parade that makes news only as scandals. Ah yes lets travel to the US under special applications if you're hiv pos or maybe gays can stay in Canada as potential sex offending murderers for having sex. Ah yes, so much to be proud of for Alberta Canadians. RJ and Casselman my sound advice to you is worth every "pennylane" ...you both need a lawyer! NEXT...
H, Calgary Alberta
09/01/09 8:27 PM EST
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Shamefull Twisted Element
As one of the owners of The Rekroom, and DJ at Boyztown Metro, I think that Mr. Fafard is completely delusional. Our goal when we were open, was to completely support all non-profit groups equally. As far as Pride goes, we sponsored them, our DJs actually worked the dance, our entertainers colaborated together to make Pride the best we could. Compared to this, there was no bickering amongst each other...we had one main goal, which was to make Pride the best it could be. We had our dances at the Max Bell Centre (straight venue). I think the time has come for "our community" to let Mr. Fafard know exactly how we feel...and to stop the discrimination in our own community! RJ...take a BREAK! We're done!
Don Turgeon, Calgary Alberta
09/01/09 9:40 PM EST
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Oh, R.J. you little scamp!
"I'm not the bully they're making me out to be," counters RJ Fafard, But you ARE, Blanche...but ya are!! Met him years ago doing some voluteer work..this was when he ran a restaurant. Cold, dead eyes. Didn't trust him. Someone needs to tell him it's not 1980 and we don't put up with this sh#t anymore.
Mr. E., Calgary Alberta
09/01/09 10:00 PM EST
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Come on R.J. well we have come to expect this!!!
This is so like R.J. two years ago I was part of the I.S.C.C.A. It was decided that this non-profit oganziation was no longer welcome in his bar this came from R.J mouth. Basically it came down to the fact that we as volnteers (some in drag!!!!) didnt bring in enough money on a weekday! This came out in a gay calgary magazine and poof he came out on his stage and said it never happened (It did happen I was in the room!!!!) This is so like him when theres a little heat in the press he makes it out like he's the victim well I don't go to his bar anymore! Anyone that is better off then most should be doing his best to help pepole that are less fortunate! Im not saying hes a total bad guy he just needs to get a grip..... It's not always about you R.J. I hope that one day you'll get that. And for god sakes start treating pepole they way you would like to be treated!
J.Holly, Calgary Alberta
09/02/09 12:27 AM EST
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hmmmmmmm
... yip its true, there are no such things as adults anymore, just children in older bodies. Come on Calgary get up! act up! and throw this toxic garbage in the trash where it belongs. I think all of us are tiring of this identity push that all we are is our orientation ... HelloooOO its 2009!... if it smells like politics it is politics, so please all politicions and type A personalities please remove thenselves to the back of the bus, and let us citizens enjoy our parties, parades, communitty and friendships in peace... no matter what the redric is Calgary you be proud of yout journeys and what you have done,you deserve it ... BIG HUGS from EventmastersInc., Western Canadain Pride Festival, and The Autumn Harvest Campout. ... As we say, if you have had 361 brutal days this year, do us all a favour and leave it at the gate! Just come out and play, have fun, forgive and celebrate weeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!
Leon, Calgary Alberta
09/02/09 12:54 AM EST
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Diversity and Inclusion...
Pride is about diversity. Pride is about inclusion. And most of all - pride is about BEING PROUD that we can see the light at the end of the tunnel. The very fact that a "str8 bar" is willing to host an event that directly associates them to the gay community. Regardless of the risks that have historically come with such an association... well seriously. I don't speak on behalf of anyone but myself here. And certainly no group I'm associated with has expressed an opinion either - but I'd like to put my own two cents worth in here. Why do we have a pride? To celebrate our inclusion in society. Historically, yes - it was once a form of protest. "we here, we're..." (you get the picture) We're not about that anymore... society in this country (even in down town Cow Town) recognizes LGBT community as valuable members. There are certainly plenty of degenerates and social neanderthals who appear to be ignorant of the history of our community - but equating them with youth, or suggesting that an entire organization is incapable of electing it's own directorship is a bit much. As was mentioned, those who enjoy the festivities should not only recall why it exists, but why it continues to exist, and how many lives will be bettered by groups participating in the parade alone. Groups like PFLAG Canada who have been saving families and lives for decades. These groups need our support. If for no other reason... the more people know what pride is about - the sooner we'll all be equal. THAT is the goal, and THAT is what we should be reminding ourselves of. If at all possible, I WILL be in that parade, and I WILL be happy to walk along side those who recognize that EQUALITY is just as important WITHIN or community, as it is across the entire country, indeed - the world. Stacy D. Green President: PFLAG Canada
Stacy Green, Lethbridge Alberta
09/02/09 1:09 AM EST
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Community??
Community - a social, religious, occupational, or other group sharing common characteristics or interests and perceived or perceiving itself as distinct in some respect from the larger society within which it exists ... did anybody catch that first part, the part about SHARING COMMON CHARACTERISTICS OR INTERESTS? I'd say it's pretty clear Calgary's Queer Community doesn't seem to share much. They're not united, they're not supportive, they're not evident on any regular basis. Not as a whole ... and there was a time when Pride brought them all together. The bars, the retailers, the groups & organizations (non-profit & otherwise), the families and others that are 'ghosts' the rest of the year, would come out to Pride. Right now the only thing the community seems to share is the need to divide, separate, and fight. (insert sarcasm)Maybe there shouldn't be a Pride, would Calgary even notice? We want to be accepted, why must we have separate venues? Say goodbye to Pride, and gay bars, and out retailers and just blend ... that's what we want after all? Right????? (end sarcasm & shake your head) Davie Village, you're looking more and more like home for this Calgary born girl ...
Lyn, Calgary Alberta
09/02/09 10:12 AM EST
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Pride Events
I strongly support Calgary Pride in their effort to revitalize themselves and bring the event back to the forefront of our community. I strongly condemn RJ's actions and think that it is shameful and dishonest of him to do what he did. If he thinks soo "highly" of the importance of pride events, and he thinks it soo "necessary" to condemn their nearly last ditch effort to stay afloat and alive then he should contribute and involve himself in the organizing process. This petty stupidity is ridiculous and look badly on him. Being the only game in town, however, I can see why he plays such a dirty game. Lets hope that someone else opens a club and feeds him some humble pie. Oh how I miss boystown and detours.
Ricardo de Menezes, Calgary Alberta
09/02/09 10:25 AM EST
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Pride Cometh Before A Fall
RJ's issues with Pride have been longstanding, as well as his efforts to try and manipulate and control the community here in Calgary by shutting-out anything he perceives as competition. That "competition" in his eyes includes PRIDE should show exactly what sort of person he is and what he thinks of the Calgary community - namely, us. The same people who support his business. Boystown died as soon as Twisted opened - why? Because the community here was dead tired of the drama and bullshit that they pulled when they were the only game in town - a lesson that seems to have escaped the management at Twisted. People go there and put up with it because we have limited choices. The minute there is an alternative, the same thing will happen to Twisted - which only hurts the community further. This is why RJ tries to strangle any competition - he couldn't survive if there was a decent dance club in this town. The truth is shown in his attitudes and actions - and anyone who's ever dealt with him first hand knows he doesn't give a damn about the Calgary Gay Community. You'd think that someone who is so careless in their own business (I have myself been present and overheard him letting underage guys in his bar) would be in a lot less of a hurry to piss people off.
J.Howard, Calgary Alberta
09/02/09 11:07 AM EST
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RJ ploy backfired
I think this is a ploy for RJ to dominate the Alberta LGBT community and he got caught by Xtra and the community. So what is he now going to do, get on the mic and boycott Xtra? He did with GayCalgary magazine, which Twisted does not carry. Is he then also going to boycott Squirt and Cruiseline because they are part of Xtra? Does that mean he won't be using Squirt or Cruiseline anymore either? This would though make sense that he would boycot all other LGBT publications since he has invested interest in Outlooks Magazine. If he gets rid of competition or anyone that questions him, he builds control. So he wants Pride to fail, so he can take over. He is creating his own event called Mr and Mrs. Twisted Element padgent, which is to compete again the ISCCA for fundraising, since the ISCCA is being boycotted. Also he boasted about creating his own store to compete against Priape and started boycotting them. Then when he needs "personal" things, he is all over them. What about this 3rd floor bath house he ran around showing people blueprints of to compete against Goliath's? But since RJ screwed up saying gay money for gay businesses, he really screwed over Outlooks too since how many advertisers in Outlooks are gay owned? I don't think he actually thinks before opening his mouth but likes doing it on the mic every chance he gets. We know he is paranoid too of getting caught and sued since there is a poster of "No Camera's or Recording Devices Allowed". Again, he wants control to the point of not being questioned.
P Seaward, Calgary Area Alberta
09/02/09 1:54 PM EST
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LOVE IT
I love all these coments! I don't have much to say but keep them coming. I think it will show a bit more about what the gay comunity has to say and we will all learn from them. Thanks for sharing every body.
MB, Calgary Alberta
09/02/09 2:28 PM EST
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UGH!
I made the no camera's or recording devices poster myself! It is standard for bars especially gay bars to have that policy... its a service to the patrons... not the owners.
J, Calgary Alberta
09/02/09 5:54 PM EST
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RJ "allegedly" Strikes again
Does any of this really surprise anyone? Twisted Element did their best to make sure that Boyztown closed down. They denounced the Pride dance over the microphone at Twisted Element (I was there to hear it) and offered drink specials on the night it was to take place. The transcripts of their outrageous behaviour at the Pride board meeting were printed in GayCalgary magazine and they tried unsuccessfully to screw with ARGRA and were told to go to hell (YAY ARGRA!!!). It's almost as if you aren't allowed to be gay in Calgary unless you have their personal stamp of approval. Myself and many other gay men in ALberta would rather attend a Reverend Fred Phelps ralley rather than step foot in Twisted Element, doesn't THAT say something???? I hope the guys over at Penny Lane Entertainment realize that the gay community is looking for some alternative (and plenty of disposable income)and open a new bar, they've got the resources to force Twisted Element into closure and I think the gay community in Calgary would breathe a HUGE sigh of relief if THAT were to happen. Who cares if the owners would be straight? PLAY Nightclub in Edmonton is owned by straight people and no one bats an eye at that and I've felt more inclusion in my life from folks in the straight community than I ever have from the Twisted Element.
Formerly of Calgary, Edmonton Alberta
09/02/09 7:31 PM EST
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Good Riddance
As a gay man who has lived in Calgary for 33 years, I can say with a fair bit of confidence that Mr. Fafard selling his bar and "leaving" would be the best thing to happen to gay society in Calgary in a long time. Mr. Fafard works against community interests and supports only his own personal ones. This has manifested itself many times. But let's just look at the article for a moment: What kind of gay business owner calls sponsors to complain about Pride posters in their parking lot? Clearly, by having an issue with it in the first place, and then not calling the Pride organization but instead targetting their sponsors, he was trying to inflict damage. No one seriously believes his action was out of concern for his parking lot. This is simply not the act of a rational, community focussed business person. It reeks of a 6-year olds tantrum. Further, the claims that Mr. Fafard made to Xtra about the lack of credentials for the Pride organization, which were disproved by Xtra (good for you for investigating), again clearly deomonstrate that this community business owner doesn't deal with facts and seems to work only based on his own personal feelings and emotions. This action demonstrates he is only interested in doing harm to the Pride group, even if he has to rely on lies and innaccuracies to do it. Community leaders that behave in the manner that Mr. Fafard does are not welcome. Yes, business owners need to concerned about profit, absolutely. They have a right to make money. But gay businesses in Calgary need to be concerned about the community as a whole, and the ones that will help it grow are the ones that belong. Mr. Fafard, if you need help packing up and moving out, you say the word. I personally will come and help you. You are a destructive force in the gay community and I hope and pray that you leave.
Brian, Calgary Alberta
09/03/09 1:27 AM EST
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NEW GAY BAR
If Paul Vickers who at one point expressed interest in opening up a new gay bar then by god this would be the best time to either make an offer to RJ or do it Paul. I'm convinced that a new gay bar free of the history surrounding Twisted would be a welcome change. I'd be the first one in line to submit my resume just so that Calgary would have a decently run, fun, and safe gay establishment run with professionalism and courtesy for all clientele. Perhaps RJ might do well to hire someone to lead Twisted in a new direction for the best interest of all. He could still run his ship but do it through a professional manager with experience in customer service and public relations. Isn't this a no brainer? Call me....Mr. H
Mr.H, calgary ab
09/03/09 3:23 PM EST
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UGH times 2
Holy crap man, you peeople really need to get the facts instead of listening to the rumours before you pass judgement. 1st comment.... Um weren't you a twinkie once, and um where did you go out. I think that having a safe environment for the younger gay community is important for them as well as you.. and yes no your not young anymore so Get over it. 2nd comment... you must be dreaming if you believe one person has the power to "quash a club from opening" why don't you talk to the people involved in opening it and find out why they couldn't... 3rd comment ....i agree ha. 4th comment ... Well maybe a bit more advertising for members for the pride committee agm might help myself i have never heard of one being held.. and have been around for a long time J holly, your comment is completely unsound and uneducated, there were other resons why the ISCCA was turned away from twisted and alot of it was their own undoing in relation to how they approached the bar, get your facts... .. Anyway guys get the facts and seriously stop listening to the gay rumor mill, it really pisses me off when people say something about someone with out facts or proof just to defame there character in the eyes of otthers to get support for their personal vendetta....Thats ALL!!
c., Calgary Alberta
09/03/09 3:49 PM EST
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Disturbing:
Its sad to see such a big city like Calgary having such a small pride over the years. Althoug it has gotten much bigger, there are those who wish to see it fail. We are not as liberal with pride as Vancouver or Toronto or even Montreal, but i think that should change. We have enough people in this city to make big things happen to bring people from all over North America. Unfortunatly people like RJ make this very difficult to happen. Bashing on pride and not taking part in Calgary pride is extreamly disturbing. Maybe a big change should be that his club sells to a more welcoming and friendly gay person. We need more gay clubs and a better atmosphere. I do hope this gay pride is an eventfull one though!
Anonymous, Calgary Alberta
09/03/09 10:13 PM EST
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Defending Twisted...so cute...so unnecessary
Don't you realize that RJ & Cliff LOVE this kind of controversy? It's free advertising for them, & gets people talking about their bar. In private, the way they phrased it when Gay Calgary Mag published all those articles was "any publicity is good publicity". This wasn't a bitter lament, this was a triumphant laugh at Gay Calgary for falling for it. They pretty much want to keep it coming because it's good for them, & are constantly dangling the bate in hopes that Gay Calgary or someone else will bite. Sure they're going to whine & complain that they're being treated so unfairly, so that their staff & supporters will come to their rescue. It makes you feel good about yourself for defending the bar that you love. It brings you closer together so that you love them even more. Genius yes, but only commendable if you need that fear to drive you. I wouldn't be surprise if this whole asshole persona from RJ in his club is just an act to generate this sort of caffuffle. His comments in the article showed a completely different face, devoid of that infamous ego. They're REALLY cunning business people. He's probably pulling one over on all of us, both for & against him. If & when you show up to their events this weekend, you're going to see that this scandal hasn't negatively impacted them whatsoever. They may be even more busy than they would have been. They're going to call it a triumph of people pulling together despite what happened, & supporters are going to feel all warm inside from 'prevailing'. I just call it a clever form of audience participation - who needs daytime soap operas when you can be a part of it in real life eh? Even if you're against them, you're just pushing to further polarize other people in support of them. Only two days ago, people who were refusing to get involved in the situation have now taken a side. If the whole situation really distresses you that much, then be smart &
Arthur D., Calgary AB
09/03/09 11:19 PM EST
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Defending Twisted...contd.
LOL I suppose my final piece of advice would be good to have without getting cut off: If the whole situation really distresses you that much, then be smart & just don't play along with this charade.
Arthur D., Calgary AB
09/03/09 11:26 PM EST
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Pride Calgary Planning Committee
Here is a list of the Pride Board Members this year, as this seems to be a confusing factor in this ongoing conversation. President: Sam Casselman Secretary: Dallas Barnes Treasurer: Ian Krell Media: Carly Hylton/Sue Bosley Volunteer Coordinator: Christy Nicholson Graphic Designer: Pam Rocker Director: James Demers Director: Kara Swanson Director: Doug Hass Director: Laura Black Calgary Police Liason: Constable Lynn MacDonald When approached with this article, we only wanted to make it known as to what was going on because there were a lot of rumours out there. We are all amazed at the response that it has been given. We are all following this dialogue and are dedicated to listening to it all. We do encourage you all to join our Facebook group and drop us a line at info@pridecalgary.ca with any questions/comments, etc. I can officially say that we have not BARRED anyone. This came to a head because of some sponsor exclusivity. Gay Calgary is our media sponsor. Outlooks wanted to have a booth and distribute thier magazine. As per our agreement with Gay Calgary we could not give them a booth as it would be a conflict of interest. You ever notice when you go to a restaraunt all they have is Pepsi products? This is because they have an exclusive deal with Pepsi. Well the same goes for Gay Calgary and Pride. Once we let Outlooks know that we could not give them a booth....the **** hit the fan, and it finally boiled down to what it is today. We as a Board want you to enjoy Pride weekend any way you want. We are all so passionate about our community, and are attempting.. with all that we have... to mend it somehow. We can't please everyone and we know this.. we are learning so much... believe me. We have made mistakes and we have made some great steps forward. We understand that we can not change what was done in the past, however we are trying to start fresh. All of our Board members are new to this Board. Pride Calgary is no longer. Pride Calgary Planning Committee
Dallas Barnes, Calgary Alberta
09/04/09 12:11 AM EST
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pART 2
is who we are known as. We are registered as a Society, and are filling out our tax return next year like everyone else. We are all volunteers, and dedicated many hours a week to get this going. We love what we do. We love our community even more. We are not asking you to love us, we are asking you to give us a chance. Yes, we could be considered a young Board, however I really dont feel that young (36!) We have representatives on our Board from many aspects of the community. We do not have everyone represented and we know that. We have joined forces with many individuals in the community and taken what they have taught us. Some names that come to mind to thank are Steve Polyak and Rob Diaz-Marino from Gay Calgary for introducing to thousands of individuals and basically taking us under their wings. Johnathan Larson from the Calgary Eagle has been tremendous in assisting us with Fundraisers, moral support, and a shoulder to cry on. The ENTIRE staff at MP's for letting us use their space for meetings, giving us fundraising ideas, and being their to lend their ears. Jim Heaton from Priape has been our "reality check" in that he has supported us from the beginning but kept us grounded. Aargra for letting us crash the rodeo with crazy fundraising games and Pride Calgary membership canvassing. The Backlot and Texas Lounge for letting us come in and explain who we are and to let them know that we want to know them and be involved. Outlink for bringing us all together to discuss the community as a whole. Our allies, friends, and volunteers. THANK YOU!!! And yes even Twisted. Regardless of what is occuring at this moment, this situation has allowed us to question some of our motivations, and reevaluate what Pride is all about. It has also opened up this conversation to a level that is very needed in Calgary. Regardless of our differences, we all share a common bond. Figuratively we are FAMILY, and as a family of any kind we fight, and we make up. Let's Mak
Dallas Barnes, Calgary Alberta
09/04/09 12:14 AM EST
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response to defending twisted
Arthur D, I am a very close friend to Rj and Cliff and I can assure you that they are not loving this one bit. They wish this to end as much as the rest and have even broke down emotionally over the personal attacks out there. Its no longer becoming a lets get it out into the open and talk about it it is becoming a personal attack and that is not fair. They are human too you know.
c., calgary alberta
09/04/09 12:40 AM EST
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My comments removed
my earlier comments were removed or sensored by this publcation .what bullshit.its ok to curse the owners of twisted but mention any one from the old boys club and you are sensored typical calgary garbage and exclusivity for gay calgay mag. whats that all about we are a community that includes outlooks xtra and others more bullshit just ashamed

NOTE FROM BRENT CREELMAN, XTRA.CA'S WEB EDITOR: Mark, you did not comment on this article. Your comment was on the follow-up story: Calgary queers weigh into Pride dispute. We have not censored or removed any of your comments.
09/04/09 9:00 AM EST

Mark, Calgary Alberta
09/04/09 2:06 AM EST
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Re: GayCalgary "exclusivity"
Our estimates are that we invested over $10,000 of sponsorship value into Pride this year, including in kind sponsorship of advertising and the major overhaul we did to the Pride Calgary website. We felt it was only worthwhile for us to donate such a large amount if Pride made us their official GLBT print media partner (aka. Official Pride Guide), something that we could use as a selling point so that we could make some of the money back in Pride-related advertising. As we were gathering advertisers for our August and September editions, we encountered a number who declined on the reason that they had already signed contracts with Outlooks Magazine for their pride-related advertising (one even claimed an exclusive advertising contract that disallowed them from advertising elsewhere), stating that they had been promised their advertising in Outlooks Magazine would give them exposure at the official Pride Calgary events this year. We were told that in a meeting with the Pride Board, Outlooks' sales manager Perry confirmed that they had indeed sold pride-related advertising on this promise to a number of Calgary advertisers. We had a discussion with members of the Pride Board and together we concluded that it seemed unfair, under the current circumstances, that Outlooks should be permitted to have a booth at the Street Festival to give out their Magazines - not for the sake of seeking new readers, but because they stood to profit from Pride advertisers without going through proper channels. We were concerned that the presence of their magazine at the Street Festival might cause confusion that could hurt the return value of our sponsorship.
Rob Diaz-Marino, Calgary AB
09/04/09 5:39 AM EST
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Re: GayCalgary "exclusivity" 2
I believe this was the only restriction that we asked for - nothing was discussed about Outlooks' ability to enter a float in the parade (although I think it would be fair that such a float not be used to hand out magazines either), but we explicitly stated that they were more than welcome to cover the events for publication, and participate in the events personally. Outside of paying for a table at the street festival, it should be a no-brainer that sponsoring publications would receive preference at other official Pride events. Although Outlooks Magazine classifies themselves as a national publication and we ourselves a regional publication, we are aware that more than half of the advertising spots in Outlooks comes from our market, and thus it is difficult for us to not treat them as a competing business. It should be noted that we took the initiative to approach Pride Calgary for sponsorship, and that Outlooks Magazine had the very same opportunity. The presence of our sponsorship would not have negated their ability to sponsor alongside of us. Had Outlooks been a sponsor, this situation would have been different. We were very disappointed with the way that Brett initially reacted to the situation. On the other hand, Xtra will have a table at the Pride festival. Although they are not sponsors of Pride, they are not competing for the same advertising market as us, and they regularly pay for advertising in our publication, for which we are very grateful. Same case with Metro newspaper.
Rob Diaz-Marino, Calgary AB
09/04/09 5:42 AM EST
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Re: GayCalgary "exclusivity" 3
Well, I mean to say, Metro is not a competitor and I believe will also have a table at the festival, not that they advertise with us regularly. Now, on a different note... Mark, way to put your foot in your mouth. Do you realize there are two different articles about this topic on Xtra.ca? There's the original and the follow-up. This is the original. Your message was not deleted, it is just on the follow-up. But thanks for the snide implications. Speaking of that message...by the way, you're welcome - Twisted hired you in the first place on our referral, since you had told us you had experience with setting up bathhouses, and they were planning to set one up on the third floor at the time. I guess no good deed goes unpunished.
Rob Diaz-Marino, Calgary AB
09/04/09 6:11 AM EST
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This is still going on why?
Ah Calgary Pride, a time when gays of all collars and colours come together to show the world what a strong and vibrant community we are. A chance to show those who are unsure what it is to be gay that tolerance truly is the way to a better world; Or a chance to shamelessly, publicly, and in the style of a drag queen with too many shots in her - with a huge amount of drama, have a public pissing match eroding anything that we’ve worked towards since the Stonewall Riots. The fight this year has apparently been caused by accusations of a bar owner spreading misinformation regarding the sexuality of this year’s festivities. Unaware that parades had a sexual preference, I was somewhat astonished to hear this accusation was holding some weight in the community. "Welcome to Calgary's first Straight Pride. Has anyone wondered why there are no gay sponsors?” A quote taken from said bar owners facebook page. Well, I suppose, based on what various business owners have been saying it’s because the Pride committee didn’t call and invite you to pride. Goliath’s saying : "I don't have any problems with Pride," he says. But when it comes to sponsorships, he doesn't feel businesses should make the first move. "I'm not gonna call you to give you money," he says. "You call me." That’s right folks, if you want a blowjob you’re buying dinner first. Now, in theory this is a reasonable statement, but let’s put it in context. Calgary pride is at best a fledgling institution. Throughout the years it has been plagued by poor management, often volunteers, who admittedly have other things to deal with in their lives. Throw into this the recession and you will find there are people who have no time at all for trying to pay the bills between a full time and 2 part time jobs attempting to put this together. Pride has become familiar enough that gay business would have to be aware of it, contacted or not by the committee. If a business is having a rough go of
Aaron, Calgary AB
09/05/09 10:25 PM EST
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word counter lied and cut me off :(
If a business is having a rough go of it and can’t afford to put a float in the parade… what’s wrong with that? However, a business not aware of pride, or unwilling to go out of their way to sponsor a celebration of their customer base is the most asinine thing I have ever heard of. Then, after not searching out the committee to offer sponsorship, certain afore mentioned businesses have the nerve to bash the institution in a public forum such as facebook? The true hilarity comes from this whole mess going public, the first I had heard of it was in two articles on www.xtra.ca (links to follow). I understand the sentiment of going to an even more public forum to attempt and force a resolution, really I do. I hate to say, and God I hope that I am wrong, but it’s not going to work. Now everyone has their back up and nothing will be resolved this year. Or even next year as this same situation rolls around time and time again. Furthermore, as people are preparing for the weekend of fun and excitement they are reminded just how catty, shallow, and at times pathetic our community can be. The long and short of it guys & gals, is that if our gay business isn’t willing to support the gay community, then the community will be forced to look outside of the enclave for the funding they require to put on our parade. If then said businesses try to drag down the committee for finding the funding outside, perhaps it’s time to re-evaluate which businesses you are supporting with your money. Turn the tables and demand the respect you deserve from your own and be damn thankful for the growing support outside of this house divided. For without it, we would be going without.
Aaron, Calgary AB
09/05/09 10:29 PM EST
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Well Done Pride Calgary Planning Committee
I attended the Pride Calgary Dance at Belgo, and was astonished. (RJ, I'd be worried.) The venue was very HUGE, and the staff were very polite, and i'm sure they made a lot of $$$. :) Congratulations to the Pride Calgary Planning Committee! Job well done!
Don Turgeon, Calgary Alberta
09/06/09 1:44 AM EST
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Twisted discrimination
I am grateful for a "straight pride" IT SPEAKS VOLUMES. I stopped going to twisted a couple years back when they charged me and a friend cover because they thought we were straight. When I questioned the owner why they were discriminating by charging straight people to enter the bar he said it was to discourage them from coming. To this day I do not understand that logic. If straight people want to show support by going to a gay bar, funding pride, or what ever form of support they want to show we should embrace it. It is what pride celebrations are all about. I have never heard of a straight bar that only charges gay people to enter, and guess what... That is where you will find me showing my support and pride!
Kagami, Calgary Alberta
09/06/09 2:56 AM EST
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Re: Defending Twisted
Didn't I call it? Twisted was packed last night. Pride dance was too. No need to get all panicked, there are enough people to go around. Holding the dance at Twisted would have been the dumbest move ever - they wouldn't be even close to able to hold them all. C., by the way, your assertion about the humanity of the owners of Twisted really means nothing. So was Adolf Hitler, Saddam Hussein...I'm sure they shed a few tears too when the gig was up.
Arthur D, Calgary AB
09/06/09 12:08 PM EST
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RJ Please LEAVE
You know, I am born and raised in this city and it disturbs me to no end to see people like RJ causing strife within a community that needs to stick together, in a day in age when people have a hard enough time supporting and accepting each other as it is. I have seen this man treat people with such disgusting displays of judgement, disdain and rudeness, it makes me sick. He is condescending and arrogent and is a downer for the community. RJ, you do not promote a sense of community between not only the gay community but also the community with which we live in, which happens to be the straight community. Who, by the way, happens to give us way more support than this fool who disguises himself as a business man when really he is a greedy opportunist. Perhaps it is time for you to throw in the bathouse towel and leave my fair city before you cause too much dissention in what should be a peaceful supportive world. Either that or put your sick attitude away and become a mature human being. How about contributing rather than boycotting,competing and taking away from what other have worked so incredibly hard to build. If you cannot do this feel free to LEAVE!
Sixx, Calgary Alberta
09/07/09 8:07 PM EST
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