qPDX.com - Queer news, views and events for Portland » Night Out!

A weekend of beauty parlors, homo talent, old school cafeteria and house parties and the chance to earn some booty

alleyhector — Thu, 29 Jul 2010 21:06:58 +0000

Last year's Homo's Got Talent winners Nicolette and Pony, aka, Art School Dropouts

Tonight

The Cafeteria at Vendetta – The inaugural lunch lady themed new gay night at my new local bar mere blocks from my new gay house! It should also be the perfect cool down from Last Thursday, and it’s, you guessed it, within walking distance. Lunch trays and crunk gays (and $1.50 Pabst) within stumbling distance? I’m there.

Purple Rhinestone Eagle’s tour kick off – Awesome queer punk tour kickoff with STLS, Forever, and DJ Permanent Wave in between sets at Backspace (125 NW 5th). Um, have you ever heard a band with two drummers? Now is your chance dude. It’s time to rock out with whatever you got out.

BITE (Bringing Individuals Together for Equality) – More into low key noshing for a cause? 30% of food sales from the day at the Gilt Club (306 NW Broadway) will go back to Basic Rights Oregon. And they made the city’s top 10 list of burgers. So it’s going to be especially worth it for my fellow carnivores.

Friday

Play/Start, Vibrato & Tender Hooves – Looks like it’s yet another weekend where rock reigns supreme. And this show’s so punk it’s at a house. Remember those good parts of high school? Yeah!

Parlor - On the opposite end of the spectrum, you might want to get all fancy and have a big queer spa day. I think these tired bones are more for mani/pedis and massages at this point in my life than sweating it out in a basement, but to each their own. This is a benefit for both In Other Words and community member Naomi, who is currently in beauty school and will be the lead cosmetologist for the evening. Did I mention hot DJ jams and infused drinks?

Gay takeover at Snap!

Blown - Blown is back, apparently, but I’m not sure I ever went before. I did, however, attend many a good night at the Crown Room (205 NW Fourth Ave), and they have hella cheap drinks before midnight. So it’s worth checking out.

Snap! – Not explicitly a queer night Snap! is put on by awesome community member Coco Madrid and it’s their 3 year anniversary. Besides, once we had a queer takeover organized in one day and it made the whole night totally gay. I mean, the 90s were pretty gay anyway right?

Saturday

The Great Gay Treasure Hunt – I love this idea. I mean, I love a dance party, a BBQ, a river trip, all the stuff we do all the time. But a novel idea? Even better. An Amazing Race around stumptown with a real cash prize of a 1000 bucks. Nice. Tomorrow is the last day to register your 2-4 person team online, or you can register the day of for an additional charge. But it all goes to charity so you’re good either way.

Homo’s Got Talent in the Jupiter Courtyard – Last summer’s HGT was pretty off the chain, but it was in the dank E Room Tomb. I am much more looking forward to this year’s sunny Jupiter courtyard (800 E Burnside). Last year’s food mashers, naughty bit danglers and WINNERS the Art School Dropouts will be gracing the stage once again to hand over their crown. This time the harsh criticism will come from celebrity judges Mr. Charming, Sea Man and Sossity Chiricuzio. But who will take the crown? No one knows but I’m sure they’ll step up to outdo last year’s acro-balance superheroes, choreographed yo-yo ing, dinosaur tango, pony-prancing, whip-cream & twinkie debauchery.

Chunky Dunk

Sunday

Rabbit Rabbit Double Rainbow summer garden party and BBQ – The line between public and private parties has always been blurry in Portland, but especially so when there are houses that host public events often. What I have dubbed in our events calendar as All Summer, No Bummer is a private abode, but they want the queers to come out for dancing, eating, and lounging in the kiddie pool this Sunday afternoon. It starts as early as 2 and will wind down in the nighttime hours with some live acoustic music and jam sessions. Plus they have a killer fire pit. Sweet, lazy fun.

Chunky Dunk Trans Fat edition benefiting the Gender(Free) For All – I’m kind of a public pool hater. Yes, I realize all kinds of people and animals pee in the river, but in the pool it’s a small contained area that is only cleaned by eye-searing chemicals like chlorine. And you never know what to wear when you’re not quite the body size or gender norm. Well, annoying hordes of screaming kids and nasty stares have been replaced by this party which celebrates a diversity of bodies kickin’ it poolside. And Penninsula (700 N Rosa Parks) is nicely large and interestingly rounded pool with a ton of free play toys to balance and float on, or battle with. I’m just hoping queers go inside to use the potty.

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You know…weekend fun stuff, like Blow Pony, No Shade, Do the Dark and gay river times

alleyhector — Thu, 22 Jul 2010 20:23:49 +0000

Let's have a gay ol' time at the Washougal River!

Tonight

Do the Dark – Yes, do it. Guest DJ Nolita (Fruitcake) is in town from Oakland and it’s gonna be sick. Oh yeah, and weinie roasting on the back deck. What more could a summer queer ask for? If you don’t already know this party you should.

Friday

Need and Bangs reunion benefit – I know a lot of you will be here earlier in the night, but you can still dance it up after right?

No Shade – Yes, just keep going. No drama-rama party with a great mix of fabulous peeps. And I really love that they include some mixes to get you in the spirit. I’d totally play it at the pre-funk. Oh yeah, and in case you didn’t have enough Nolita already, she’ll be here too. And you can never get enough.

Saturday

Big Gay swim times at the Washougal River – Start your 94 degree day off right. It’s not all bars and dancing. And Sauvies and Rooster Rock aren’t only places the gays like to swim. Recently the rumor of Milemarker 7 has been circulating in the queer community but this weekend a concrete takeover is being organized. As a VanWA native I will warn that it might not be as top off, come as you are friendly up on the outskirts of the ‘Couv but I’ve never really had any big problems either. So stick together and be aware, but still be your radical selves. I’ll be there and I got your back.

Haus of Gaga 3 – Ok, now back to the dancing. The wonderfully no cover CC Slaughters (219 NW Davis) hosts its third Lady Gaga celebration featuring special remix CDs, a chance to bid on tickets to her upcoming show, and you can be a VIP for the proletariat-friendly price of a tenner.

Blow Pony – Everybody’s favorite queer as f*** dance party is back for the first time since Pride. Will it be as busy? Will the food cart truck be outside? Will people be too tired and it’ll be empty? Nah…It’s always epic. The outside is open and you can dance under the dusky stars. What a perfect Saturday night ending.

Sunday

Game night at Girl Crush – I absolutely love that there’s no shame in games, or other traditionally nerdy things, in this town. You can be a dancing dyke hipster and still get down with some Trivial Pursuit or Apples to Apples. The Crush food menu is pretty dope and happy hour is extended until 8. Plus the Crave girls that put this even on are so sweet and cute. Worth checkin’ out if you are still hoppin’ by Sunday.

Fruitcake returns for one night only humpday extravaganza

alleyhector — Wed, 21 Jul 2010 20:00:52 +0000

DJ Nolita. Photo courtesy Just Out

As exciting as it may be to have a little pre-gay pizza b-ballin’ in the court across from Portsmouth, I have to go with my nostalgic gut and make an appearance at the Rotture (315 SE 3rd) for Nolita’s much missed Fruitcake. Unfortunately, we lost this party to the open arms and venues of the Bay area, and they love it too. Thankfully, they’re willing to share every once in awhile.

Trying to bring a little NYC flavor to Portland has always kept Fruitcake a fresh and intimate night, with incredible highlights such as last year’s Halloween party and New Years Eve featuring Beth Ditto.

Tonight is also sure to be a badass bash with a host of fantastic DJs including Nolita herself in the main room along with iLL Camino (Blow Pony/Maricon) Roy G Biv (BENT), Gottesfinger (Art Party/Atole/Matrimony) and Stormy (Booty/Ransom) and Jimme Jamma (Sick/Ransom) on Smokey’s Big Gay Back Deck.

And yes, that is the same one that Perry has predicted to fall. Personally, I like the gentle bounce and the la vida dangerous. If I’m gonna snuff it, might as well be doing something I love with my community. So let’s get our dance on fools!

Update: Just in case you needed a few more reasons to attend, and I don’t really know why you would, here’s some more incentive from Nolita.

1. There’s gonna be a sequin Jambi themed photobooth backdrop shot by Ally Bloodhound of Brooklyn fame!
2. It’s $3 if you get there before 10!
3. There’s music on the “smoke” deck *wink* *wink*
4. You don’t actually have a day job and if you do, SO WHAT?! At least it’s not raining!
5. FRUITCAKE is closing up shop in PDX for good.

CUM. GET. A. TASTE.

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The Need and Bangs reunite for Pacific Northwest benefit tour

alleyhector — Tue, 20 Jul 2010 16:06:23 +0000

The Need's Rachel Carns with bandmate Radio Sloan in the background in an old school Oly alleyway

It has already been a summer of reunions, but Kaia Wilson doesn’t have the market cornered on dyke rock revival. Avant garde/metal/punk/hardrock scrappers The Need and fellow OlyWa queercore riot grrls Bangs are back in the saddle for a special 3 day benefit in the Seattle, Olympia and Portland this Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. We get the weekend night, at Berbati’s Pan (231 SW Ankeny St), so expect it to be packed.

Comprised of the energetic and wide eyed drummer Rachel Carns, and the more introverted sound producer dude and guitar god Radio Sloan, The Need were always a little out there, even within the lesbian music community. Their first release featured the vocal stylings and frenetic spoken word of independent filmmaker and performance artist Miranda July and Carns kept up the wild vocals and strange lyrics on their two album releases. They also collaborated in Olympia’s masterful summer 2000 rock opera The Transfused about a misfit band of animal people that were enslaved to the human corporate machine.

Power trio Bangs, formed in 1997, was headed by guitarist Sarah Utter and bassist Maggie Vail, sister of the influential Tobi Vail, and talented musician, Kill Rock Stars worker and hipster in her own right. Their straight up pop punk is more exemplary of the late 90s Puget Sound scene and was the meat and potatoes of labels such as KRS.

This reunion was put together by Vail to benefit longtime friend and record label colleague Natalie Cox, who is suffering from a rare form of cancer.

The focus of Vail and Co.’s altruism is former Kill Rock Stars employee Natalie Cox, a prominent figure in the Oly music scene who was diagnosed with angiosarcoma in July of last year. Angiosarcoma is a particularly aggressive and rare form of cancer (approximately 0.1 percent of all cancer cases in the world are angiosarcomas), which usually starts in the blood vessels and then spreads elsewhere.

The proceeds from all 3 shows, which also feature Pacific Northwest favorites C Average and the Thrones go directly to Cox. There are also limited edition silk screened posters to commemorate the event and remind us all that local musicians take care of each other.

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Photos from last night’s Booty Reunion

mike — Sun, 18 Jul 2010 00:07:36 +0000

The crowd held up fingers to signify which contestant's booty they thought bounced the best.

I used to live a few blocks away from Porky’s and remember happening across the awesomeness that was Booty. Stars aligned last night as the old crew (now geographically scattered) hosted a fabulous reunion party complete with a booty-bouncing contest and double dutch jump roping! Check out pics here.

Be sure to catch Booty DJs Puppet and Stormy this coming Monday as they do Joystick at Ground Kontrol starting at 9:00.

Things to do this weekend: Booty Edition

alleyhector — Thu, 15 Jul 2010 20:19:34 +0000

Just some of the super hot go go dancers, Chase Bender, Chance McKinsey, & Storm Titley, appearing at Queer Cornucopia

Looks like we are all finally recovered from Pride, because the weekends are back. There’s more than enough to keep you busy but the most exciting reunion of this week (cuz, yeah, there’s more comin’ up) is the return of Puppet and Stormy‘s Booty: Queer as Ye Be. But the past ain’t all the weekend, or Friday for that matter, have to offer. There’s foam, punchy go go dancers, and bar hopping unicorns.

Friday

Queer Cornucopia – The trannies and chasers are out in full force to hock their sexy wares in benefit of Tuff Luck and Original Plumbing and yet the best part is that it’s low pressure donation. Savory Pink‘s Sophia St James wanted the community to be able to “support TL and OP in a matter that they are comfortable [with]…” But you’ll want to contribute to these hotties as they dole out either kisses or punches. That’s right, it’s a very naughty “kissing” booth they’ve got goin’ on here and I have got to figure out a way to get back and forth from the south to the north.

Booty – A full fledged history of pirate debauchery, Booty was the queer king of Thursday nights for nearly 4 years before Puppet left us for the other gay mecca. It’s always dirty, sweaty fun, but this time it could come with some cold, hard cash if you know how to swing the junk in your trunk. That’s right, midnight brings a Booty Bounce contest that could net you a Benjamin.

PDX.FM Unicorn Pub Crawl – It’s too bad radio DJ Emily Gibson isn’t a VJ instead cuz the girl’s a butch hottie. And y’all will get to know that if you’re dedicated to the combo of liquor and glitter that PDX.FM’s queer contingent put together. Each location will have a competition including Unicorn Break Dancing, the Glitter Grab, and the Straight Line Gallop. Any night with Gibson is fun, but this is a theme of the gods.

Traffic Jam Friday – That lesbian classic the E Room has a lot of competition these days but sometimes you just want an old school hookup. With red, yellow and green wristbands that tell you when to stop and go, this is the place to do it.

Saturday

Portland Grizzlies yard sale – Get your shop on while being both philanthropic and ecologically sound. Besides, there’s prolly some really cheap cool ass shit. And it’s softball dude, how gay is that!

Q Poetry Night with Elena Rose – It’s ain’t all wine, women and song, sometimes we want a little culture with our queerness. And an open mic gives your hipster spoken-word spittin’ ass the opportunity to share the stage with the real talent.

THEESatisfaction plays their first PDX show Sunday

Ring My Bella: a 70s Disco Inferno – If you know me you know that I hate to miss anything good. But what I hate that I’ve missed more than anything? The 70s. I may not have the body type for those high waisted fashions but damn did they know how to party in my mama’s day. I’ve heard those stories girl. So here’s to hoping this party is more than just a silly excuse to disco but instead exudes the real raunch of that decade of debauchery.

Gaycation – Holocene is still the Homoscene. Let’s keep it that way.

Foam party at Red Cap – You know I love both the ’70s and the ‘moscene but I don’t think I’ll be able to resist the cheap thrill that something as simple as skimpy swim suits and soap can provide. A friend and I were just wishing for this clean up dirtiness. So come slip and slide all over me girl…I’m down.

Sunday

THEE Satisfaction, SistaFist with Rafael Vigilantics, Cloudy October, Lamar Leroy – Dudes, this awesome hip hop show almost flew under my radar. And damn, THEE Satisfaction‘s awesome mix if hip hop, electro and old school is close enough to PDX that I have no idea why I haven’t heard more about them. And as for SistaFist they belong squarely to us, so don’t miss out.

Blue Parrot changes hands, still home to queer dance night BENT

perrywinkle — Thu, 08 Jul 2010 18:50:43 +0000

I had this foggy notion i went BENT at faggy nation!

It hasn’t been long since the Blue Parrot first fluttered it’s way into many a Portland gay’s party calendar. A little off the beaten track and tucked away pretty far up north, no one could predict that this local neighbourhood bar would turn into the party location motivating deepest SE bound queers (me) to hoof on up north. (Which is kinda the same thing we all said when gay pizza started happening.)

But: The Blue Parrot’s basic charms of queers, gritty music, tons o’dancing, cheap drinks and a little backyard, along with two of the most promising recent gay, lesbian and trans party upstarts, DIRTBAG! and BENT, made this diamond in the rough shine on hard, bright and crazy.

BUT, like VH1′s behind the music, it all came crashing down. The Blue Parrot changed hands and has now been renamed FOGGY NOTION. (not sure if this foggy notion will still be blue on the inside and/or feature parrot decorations. I kinda hope it does!). DIRTBAG decided to move on up (or down, as the case may be) to a new destination, namely THE KNOW on Alberta and 20th. BENT, however, decided to stay put and play an encore, even though we didn’t get to clap yet. Go BENT.

So, you know what to do, go to BENT at the BLUE PARROT/FOGGY NOTION on July 9th and every 2nd Friday, and make sure it lives up to it’s new nickname (thx to Jose!) which, of course, has to be FAGGY NATION.

It’s not curtain call just yet!
BENT is 21+/$3
FAGGY NATION is located at 3416 N. Lombard.

The weekend in cool stuff to do

alleyhector — Wed, 07 Jul 2010 23:50:34 +0000

Bearracuda celebrates a year in Portland

What happened last weekend queer Portland? Where were you while I was in my undies at Ransom PDX? Too tired? Or were you missing our special Thursday post telling you what to do all weekend? Well, you’re in luck because it’s back. And there’s plenty to do. In fact, this one comes early, because you might want to start your weekend tonight.

Tonight

Fame present Kling Klang – Yeah! I love it when the band queers and the dancin’ queers do it up together. And there’s so many good live musicians (Myths, Matrimony, Vibrato, Paradise Island) they will totally be starting at 9pm. You know, so you can dance all damn night.

Thursday

Dirtbag! – The nitty gritty dance night put on by Jenny Bruso and her tranny boys has moved both nights and locations but everyone knows that Thursday is the queer Friday anyway. I always start my weekend early, even if everyone else shows up late. Plus it’ll be interesting to see how it all goes down at the seedy but right on Alberta street venue of The Know (2026 NE Alberta)

Laughter Glow at the E Room – Comedy is comin’ up in Stumptown so you better not miss the trend. And though it may feel far away, the city’s only all lezzie all the time bar could always use your business.

Friday

Bent – No fear ladies and gents, this queer dance dive is here to stay no matter what the North Portland venue is called. We’re gonna dance it out dirty in the hood y’all.

Saturday

Stray Fires 1st year PNCA MFA Exhibition – Outrageous and brave first year grad students have some of the most interesting work. Plus, great date cruising spot, especially if you don’t want to be wasted. Artists are hot.

Bearracuda 1 year anniversary – This bear party was supposed to happen once a year but it was so popular its been springing up all year long. Never the less this year uno celebration is sure gonna bring the beast to the dancefloor. Growl!

Boom! – DJ Delusional‘s last night spinning records in town should be a fun, if bittersweet, send off. Standing for “Back on our memories,” Boom is a 90?s dance party that will surely bring the neon back.

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Finally, all the pictures from Portland Pride 2010

alleyhector — Wed, 30 Jun 2010 21:46:00 +0000

Go go boys at the Red Cap Block Party. Photo by Mike Burt

Mike was shooting with such fancy equipment that it took awhile for him to really get all the galleries up, but they finally are! That also means that if you spot yourself in a shot we can most likely make a really nice print for you. If you’re interested just email me at alley@qpdx.com.

And stay tuned for some snaps of our adventures in San Francisco!

Full galleries of PDX Pride events:

PDX Pride Parade sets 1 and 2 – Sunday June 20th’s epic parade and Waterfront festivities. Photos by Mike Burt, Alley Hector, Diana Edwards, CROD and more
Red Cap Block Party – Sunday’s big Block party bash with Cazwell, photos by Mike Burt
Scandals Block Party – photos by Mike Burt
Superstar Divas Pride show Sunday the June 20th. Photos by Mike Burt
Blow Pony – Saturday June 19th’s biggest party at Branx/Rotture. Photos by Mike Burt
PDX Dyke March sets 1 and 2 Photos by Mike Burt, Alley Hector, Diana Edwards, CROD and more
PDX Pride Cruise – Pride is on a boat bitch! Saturday June 19. Photos by Mike Burt
Booty Contest / Pivot Benefit – Friday night ass! Photos by Mike Burt
Out Like That Saturday night’s lady party at the Hawthorne Theater. Photos byCROD
Friday night June 18th parties Crave, Gaycation, and Robo/Bogo/One Night Stand photos by Alley Hector, Kelli Utrecht and more
Trans Family Picnic – Low key get together June 18th at Overlook park. Photos by Alley Hector

Perry’s Plethoric Pride Pantheon Redux – Portland Pride Weekend in Review

perrywinkle — Tue, 22 Jun 2010 20:18:21 +0000

Gay Cat

Wow – what a weekend. I don’t know about you, but I’m still recovering, and finding glitter in unexpected places. This year’s Pride was an amazing experience for me. Five nights, ten parties, two marches, and zero gay bashings or homophobic incidents (as far as we know). A vibrant, powerful and peaceful pride despite a lot of changes this year – to the Pride route, to step-off times…and weather that wasn’t quite what we’ve been hoping for. This also marked a change for us here @ QPDX.com as we slowly grow from a little website that could into the bigger, badder, and more powerful queer community media hub that we want to become.

We do what we do for you, our community, and we want to thank everyone who has supported us over the past year and a half in so many ways: Holding banners, running errands, making connections, t-shirts, costumes, stealing copies, blogging/photographing…all of it. Thank you for inspiring us to do more and do better, every day. Thank you for giving us hella gay stuff to write about.

Alright, enuff wishywashing. Let’s get down to the dirt!

Freddie Fagula at work @ Do The Dark

WEDNESDAY…
Portland Pride 2010 got kicked off at FAME/GAY PIZZA at party o’clock. Unawares of the newly implemented five dollar cover (is this every week? That’s kinda steep considering most Portland parties are less!) we did a little grooving on the dancefloor, while Alley sported a grass skirt made of QPDX.com stickers. This also marks the debut of our new merch – we still have plenty of buttons and stickers! All our friends were there, and it was a great way to start Pride week. Lovers played – I don’t remember much else.

Thursday saw us kick it at DO THE DARK, which is quickly becoming a fave alterna-queer night, especially for those of us who live south of the gayborhood. Freddie Fagula and friends spun dancey house, pop and allkinds, while the pierre et gilles’esque Pink Narcissus illuminated the dancefloor. The smoke machine was having fun that night, with two options – “extra smokey or extra fuckin’ smokey”. Thanks for that line Freddie. <3 Fun was had, and DO THE DARK seems to be creating quite a few missed connections ads lately…

our mother still dresses us alike

FRIDAY was the BIG ONE, and saw me hitting up a grand total of five parties – starting at Gaycation with the queer movies. I can never tell whether arty little films are really my thing, but some of the films were totally rad and entertaining – a great, chill addition to the established Pride canon. Gaycation heated up with Mr. Charming and Jodi Bon Jodi on the decks – wearing massive cat heads. The music was pumping, the drinks were tight, yep, hscene is the homoscene. Next stop was Crave – which was completely packed to the gills. Strangely enough, I barely recognized anyone I saw…where do these girls usually go? Where do they come from? I’m a little confused. Everyone was having a great time though, and Steve and his co-staff were holding up admirably. Jungle Juice was had, and it came with big slices of pineapple and other funkyness, and we danced a little before hitting the road.

Next stop on the list for me was MENZ ROOM @ ROTTURE...despite the DJ lineup and screen printing offered the crowd was a little thin on the ground. Shame – but at least it was nice to not have to wait in line to go to the loo or get a drink! I bumped into ponyblower extraordinaire Airick Heater on the back deck with Blow Pony performers Christeene and Jer Ber, and the relaxed atmosphere was conducive to bumping into friends and having a nice chat. The screen printing was really cool though! Kudos to the printer who was doing it all by herself!

ROBO BOGO vs. ONE NIGHT STAND @ Red Cap / BOXXES

The ROBO BOGO / ONE NIGHT STAND at Red Cap / boxxes was the complete antithesis to the more relaxed atmosphere at MENZ ROOM…Kaki Marshall, Freddie Fagula and DJs Sarah/Seth Gottesdiener (and others) played set after set of great music. The both clubs were packed, and the crowd was a great mix scene queens, dykes, alterna-queers, and drag stars. I had a great time and $590 was raised for both TransActive and the Gender (Free) For All March. Awesome work, freddie and co! It was a high energy stomper of a night. I got to dance on stage which is like, my favourite thing, next to the colour red.

After kicking it at Red Cap / Boxxes our little crew of timeless party warriors headed to the Bling IV afterparty where we drank keg, danced to classic rock and got stuck to protein bars until 4am. Success all round!

SATURDAY saw us withdraw and regroup until hitting up the dyke march, which began an hour early this year. I got there at the appropriate time, but everyone else was seemingly running on extended/daylight savings GST (gay standard time) because nobody was there. Nevertheless, we managed to get a sizable group of folks together and marched down to the waterfront. Shame it was such a small group though. I’m thinking the Dyke March needs to step it up a little-otherwise people will stop coming!

Dyke March Portland 2010. Photo by CROD

After the Dyke March it was time to chill and plan outfitz for the night, before trekking down to Blow Pony, where the line was a block line by ten thirty pm. Luckily enough it moved quickly, and the inside stayed pretty navigatable until 1am, at which point the crowd bottlenecked at the downstairs door. Lines, especially bathroom lines were pretty massive, even though there isn’t really much that organizers can do to fix that one. Music was good, although a little heavy on the hip hop. Christeene and Jer Ber performed, as did BOY JOY, and we kicked it Blow Pony style until 230am, which is when i ponied my exhausted little behind home to bed.The hardcore gay boy porn that was basically just dicks in assholes all night long at the fry truck was bit much, but overall the event was classic Blow Pony: Great music that breaks with the classic gay boy party soundtrack, awesome outfits, cool people, and a packed but friendly atmosphere. I’m also super excited that there was zero trouble this year. Good job!

qPDX.com marching crew!

SUNDAY…time to march. Our little crew of QPDX.com dancers was amazing, despite the drizzle (which was kind of refreshing actually). We got to ~~march~~ dance around to the music of the Last Regiment of Syncopated Drummers, which was funn. Crowd seemed a little thinner and a little more subdued than last year (I blame the rain), but we had a fantastic time, and spotted tons of you in the crowd! The waterfront was crowded as usual, and I didn’t spend much time there, opting for lunch near stark street and some chillout time instead. I left our merry band of warriors for a few hours to relax at home, but rejoined the crew at RECESS @ THE REPORT. I’m not sure about those skittles infused drinks, but the small but dedicated crowd was still going when I left at midnight, with Malice on the decks spinning classic rock and dance…and there was more underwear dancing, I swear.

Check out a kajillion photos Mike Burt & others took this wknd.

THE BOTTOM LINE:
Best club night: ROBO/BOGO vs. ONE NIGHT STAND
Runner Up: BLOW PONY
Best new entry: Movies @ Gaycay
Better luck next year: The Dyke March, MENZ ROOM
Best party accessory: Those cwazy cat headz
Best trooper: Emily “Meat Sox” Gibson
Prettiest Dress: Marissa Johnson
Best underwear dancing: Diana Edwards (second place goes to Emily G)
Best Co-SuperGay-Flyer: Amy Michet
Prettiest drink: Jungle Juice @ CRAVE
Best Hero: Leslie (& Janel) for bringing it. (poles)

Last night’s Gender Bender-fit and Do the Dark (with photos)

alleyhector — Fri, 18 Jun 2010 18:00:39 +0000

DJ Freddie Fagula at Do the Dark

Why are we constantly plagued with camera issues? A curse on both our houses? qPDX needs an equipment sugar daddy y’all…But for reals, I did at least get a few crappy shots from last night’s Gender Bender and Do the Dark. Even if I am more excited to see the portraits from Wednesday’s Gay Pizza, taken by the lovely Deya Card. Put ‘em up girl!

The Bender was well attended so being to little advertised, and though none of the performers were known before they took stage either there was a pretty good mix of hip hop dance with Swagger, lovely vocals from Danielle Ward and the BB Doll‘s Stellah and Rasha, and some straight up Latin drag.

As a whole it seemed a little slapped together, or perhaps a little 90s, but I loved the raffle and the Oprah moments like getting a prize for finding a flamingo under your chair. And even if there was a little disorganization, the performances were all pretty stellar and if they were put together at the last minute it didn’t show. And everyone looked great. The juxtaposition of Heat in goth eye make up and gruff transmen bootblacking was precious.

And it was all for a good cause of course, even if it did make me uncomfortable to know that the same recipient received the spoils as last year. I’m all for raising money for trans people in our community, but that community is big, and lotsa folks need surgery, whether they work at the E Room or not.

I’m sure the dance party continued but I was off to another venue. I heard some complaining that Do the Dark was a but sparsely attended but I was unconcerned.

For one there were $2.50 wells and I got just the right amount of tipsy. Secondly, I enjoy having a little space on my dance floor and it was not an empty one. I like to call it a slow build up. Because I’m going ot be surrounded by hordes of people for the next couple weeks of my life, a little room to breathe was ok with me.

And I even got a chance to chat with DJ Freddie Fagula who’s really big party, One Night Stand is tonight. He wanted to know, off the record, what I was most looking forward to tonight, and not just to say his event…I replied that I was happy to go on the record saying I AM indeed excited for his event, as well as movies at Holocene, and Eric Seller’s house party.

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Pride Sunday’s the day…parade and all

alleyhector — Fri, 18 Jun 2010 16:15:29 +0000

Cazwell and Amanda Lepore will be at the Stark Street Block Party

So yeah, the 11:30 step off time for the Portland Pride Parade is pretty much a guesstimate, and we’ve all just been partying for 4 days, so Gay Standard Time is general operating procedure. But it’s the 40th anniversary of the first Gay Pride (Lordy lordy look who’s 40…) so you better be there with your fairy-ass bells on, even if there is a little sprinkling. If there is any rain I’m sure it’s just “God” telling us to wake up and parade already.

And yes, qPDX will be there, tweeting (twatting), parading, handing out stickers, buttons and flyers, in our best supergay outfits including newly fashioned qPDX “beater” tank tops courtesy Mike Burt. There’s a couple extra so if you march with us and/or are real lucky, you might get one too.

And of course once we reach the Waterfront I usually tool around for awhile and giggle at baby dykes purchasing their first set of Freedom Rings, fully expecting to head home. But oh no, it ain’t over yet folks…

6th annual Stark Street Block Party with an after party at Boogie Boutique – There’s really too much good stuff to list at this super ‘hood extravaganza but what I’m squeeing over? Cazwell! Dirty as fuck NYC rapper who puts on a damn good, damn danceable show.

Taking Pride in Stark Street – The other block party. I love the laid back Scandals but I already talked about it, and it’s gonna be pale in comparison to next door. Sorry boys.

Malice

Don’t you miss Recess?! – Hot lady party hosted by the attractively named Jordana and featuring the most famous stripper in Portland on the decks DJ Malice. In the intimate, even though it’s bi-leveled, Report, it’s all sexy schoolgirls and naughty librarians. Except this cafeteria has some killer happy hour nibbles and 3 dollar rainbow bombs.

Pride “Wrap-up” party has you covered – Although the poster may be a little too shiny happy people and the title a bit too clever for a condom-celebrating soiree, this wrap up is sure to be anything but a gimmick. My boy Joey Casio who I went to arts high school with and who used to rap on any subject of your choosing for a quarter is in attendance and Sistafist is sponsoring a wet briefs contest! Oh wrap me up in that baby!

And yes, the parties at the E Room, It Ain’t Over Till I Say It’s Over and the Slaughters Beach Bash are still in full effect if you prefer your local and/or lack a sense of adventure.

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Pride Saturday…keep it comin’ queers

alleyhector — Thu, 17 Jun 2010 17:06:38 +0000

It's Kaj-Anne Peppar vs Blow Pony...who's gonna win?

I know yer tired…so am I…but we persevere…cuz it’s Saturday night y’all

The Dyke(ish?) March – Despite all the confusion and disorganization the Dyke March will trudge on in 2010. But be careful because it’s an hour earlier this year! Gathering at 5pm with a 6pm step off this parade of “dykes” is really more about celebrating Portland’s appreciation for and power of otherly gendered peoples, women, dykes, transpeople and other non-conformers. So what if it’s run into your ex-girlfriend march. You live in Portland. Get over it.

SMYRC’s Gayest Day of the Year Bike Ride – We get so wrapped up in our alcohol-fueled debauchery that we sometimes forget that wholesome activities that include youngsters can be just as amazing and Prideful. Not that I’m always so innocent when astride my trust lavender Bridgestone roadie Lola, but at least I can pretend.

Pride Pet parade – I’ve never been a good lesbian, as I have never owned by own dog or cat, (I mean, I’ve walked a dog so that cute girls will talk to me) but a queer lubba puppy and a cuddly kitteh so you know the folks will be out. Even if my favorite happen to be the Prideful goats, one of whom won the Just Out Pet’s category that I helped judge (oops! Is the cat out of the bag?)

1st annual Pride Cruise – While the idea of being trapped on a boat sounds a little claustrophobic it also sounds scary in an exciting way. I’m stuck with you, sweaty body to sweaty body…what’s gonna happen? Great beats, the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence and hors d’oeuvres brought right to you as you dance. Heavenly.

Hot Flash – On the opposite end of the generation spectrum is the over 36 focused Hot Flash, which is uber swanky and open to everyone for Pride festivities. Not that they discourage younguns (over 21 younguns that is) normally. So if cougars buying you bubbly is your thing, you’ll still have plenty of time to go out later.

2nd annual Blow Pony Bash Back – The BP crew might seem angry, and indeed we all have a right to be, but this party is way more about crazy outfits, a diverse array of queer-as-fuck hotties of every gender grinding it out on the dark floor and the dance asphalt under the stars, and smearing our knock down drag out make up by making out sleazily in a dark corner. Yes, I just described the best party ever.

Pride 2010 with Out Like That – Mel Shapiro’s big ass lady party only happens once in awhile and you get a Rose City Sirens reunion even less, so if you like a buxom broad you better not miss this one. Spoken word by Siren Sterling Clark reveals the ladies are also blessed with eloquent tongues.

Rose City Sirens

Tag-a-Fag Porn Star edition – Let’s take the get-to-know you and touch your body gimmick of black lights and florescent pens one step further and let you draw all over hot porn dudes. Super hot. I love that men strippers are more likely to let you touch them. I’m totally not kidding. Hott!

Come Undone – Can’t Stop Won’t Stop – Parties at the Dunes always feel so secret and dirty and intimate. I thought it was an illegal speakeasy the first 3 years I went there. But it’s really just a dark tiny bar where you can get your dance on in close proximity to your hot neighbor. Oh, and it benefits Equality Now!

Q Poetry Night – Queers are some of the artsiest and most intense people I know. Oh and we got a lot to say…

Portland Gay Men’s Chorus Music from the Heartland – It’s about damn time the Bible Belt started getting a little queer. We west-coasties are trying to do our part.

Scandals’ Taking Pride in Stark Street – This lovely little dive bar is always reminding us where we come from. Take me back to my roots baby and take it to the streets. We’re gay as hell.

7th annual Pride Beach Party – Still gay. Still shirtless. Still at Slaughters.

E Room’s Pride 2010 – Basic lezzie but they’re open til 4 and they feed you. Hell yeah.

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Pride Friday is the new Saturday

alleyhector — Wed, 16 Jun 2010 00:29:42 +0000

Bearracuda at Branx/Rotture

Yeah, what’s up with Friday night this Pride? It is a doozy. I mean, I’ve had to work really hard to pare down my nightlife route and even so I’m still attempting 4 parties. Here’s to hoping someone has a special on Red Bull…

One Night Stand with Robo/Bogo – This one is going to be epic folks. Two promoters doing two kick ass parties for one tiny 5 dolla bill. Basically this one will have everything. It’ll have boys, girls and everything in between. It’ll have 4×4 DJ decks featuring DJ Automaton back in town from LA and DJ Equestrian in town from Pittsburgh in a Robo Pony reunion. Also the Gottesdiener “twins” Girlfriends plus Goddessfinger aka Bogo as Kaki Marshall’s final Portland party. Not to be outdone, Freddie Fagula brings (aside from himself) the soul queen of hipster PDX DJ Beyonda, femme fatale Chelsea Starr and Party Martyr. It’s going to be pure madness. Oh and did I mention it’s a benefit for Trans-Active and Gender (Free) For All? I’ll drink(special) to that!

Bearracuda – Found in both the forest and the club those fuzzy beasts so at home in the Pacific Northwest know how to bring the party. A roving bear and cub party Bearracuda has been tempted back to Portland more than they expected. And it’s the first night of outdoor partying at Branx/Rotture so all that hairy-ness might stand a chance of cooling down.

Menz Room Pride BBQ Freakout – Um, so I think this is technically a totally different event than Bearracuda, but they dovetail nicely in the sort of different, but sort of the same Branx/Rotture. So, basically either have hair, draw hair, or love BBQ and dancing under the stars (and like, a fuck ton of awesome DJs and live performers) and you cannot go wrong. Oh and did I forget “screen yr own” hankies and underwear?

Comedy Curious showcase - If all this thumping bass and flashing lights isn’t for you but you still like a hearty belly chortle and a good time check out first national comedy showcase of it’s kind for the Portland area, Belinda Carroll’s Comedy Curious showcase benefits Q Center. Five comics from across these great state will parade hilarious over the stage. NYC’s Kelli Dunham brings 12 year old boy humor back, Austin’s Holly Lorka is billed as naughty and nice, sweet and sour, and likes BBQ with her porn, and small town Jessica Halem puts her queer spin on Sudafed, sexual politics, and glory holes. They are joined by hometown gals Belinda Carroll and Whitney Streed.

Gaycation with Make it Good: Short Films by Queers You Know and Love – One of the most popular, longest running lady-centered parties doesn’t really need any help advertising since they’re usually a line well before 10 o’clock. But this year the night gets even gayer with a FREE film screening starting off the night. And while what films will exactly be shown and by whom I’m fairly certain the “queers I know” part will be true though “love” remains to be seen. But because I’ve been promised “Cat Whispering!!! Gender Free Knee Porn!!! Superqueer Heroes!!!” I’m inclined to believe I just may fall in lust.

Whipped cream debauchery at Crave

Crave goes rainbow for Pride – Oh yeah, damn, it’s another lass-filled party right around the corner! As if one huge sweaty dance floor full of women isn’t enough take a refreshing 2 block stroll to Crush to join the hot young things at Crave. These ladies are also big supporters of qPDX so don’t be surprised to see our banner splashed all around you…oh and all over the bodies of those sexy go go dancers! And the earlier you get there, the more prizes and specials you can get…

7th annual Pride Beach Party – Circuit queens doin’ it show-off shirtless on the Slaughters dance for for 3 DAYS STRAIGHT. Except, you know, gay as hell. ‘Nuff said.

Pride Kick off party at the E Room – Live it up old school dyke style and get yer karaoke on. And give me a damn 5 for $5 bracelet…

Sweet Jesus I’m exhausted just writing about all these events. I’m gonna need an injection on Friday itself…

Local queer filmmaker takes ‘Field Guide to November Days’ on tour…by bike

alleyhector — Tue, 15 Jun 2010 15:45:18 +0000

Film still for 'Field Guide to November Days'

In Portland the queer community and the bike community are inextricably linked. Arts, culture, and film overlap with both. So the latest project from Sampo films, run by Nick Peterson and openly queer partner Mary DeFreese is quintessentially west coast LGBT.

Championed by prominent gay filmmaker Gus Van Sant, the duo’s first several films were shorts that, at 20 to 40 minutes, were difficult to place in either the short or feature space. But soon they brought their cinematically beautiful films, all shot in 16mm to the feature space with 2006’s Yellow. Based on the same characters A Field Guide to November Days is a very different film although co-producer Mary DeFreese says that this time they intended to put splashes of red into every shot. This experimental project features very little dialogue, instead focusing on the intensity of silence and the power of color. It was also filmed almost entirely by bike.

Field Guide follows the off and on relationship of two bikey Portland hipsters, Matt and Natalie (Joe Haege and Briana Ledford), who engage in various queer relationships.

…recently separated from each other, [Matt and Natalie] resume their relationship after a chance meeting. Passion clouds their perception and they soon fall back into destructive patterns. Further complicating the situation, they are each exploring ideas about their own mortality.

DeFreese expresses frustration that even though Sampo movies are produced by and feature gay and lesbian characters, the LGBT media do not often see their films as extrovertly queer. She aims to portray her protagonists as whole humans, “…people who exist without explanation.”

To this end Field Guide is extremely successful. It is so successful that I often felt like I wanted to get to know these complex characters better. A bit more background could have made it easier to relate to Matt and Natalie, both of whom exemplify a lifestyle that should be intimately familiar to urban 20 and 30-somethings.

But if personality is somewhat lacking in the film itself, Peterson and DeFreese are more than making up for it by putting their own selves square in the middle of their distribution and PR. As of last Thursday June 10th, both embarked on an epic 10 city west coast film tour completely by bike with a Portland screening tomorrow the 16th at the Hollywood Theater.

Peterson and DeFreese on their first tour day

Starting in Vancouver, BC they have screenings in all the major cities of the coast as well as several smaller towns. They are chronicling their adventures, which include leading rides in several stops as well as asking fans to join them on various legs of the trip, with a media rich blog.

Already in full swing these extremely detailed posts give a rich insight into the attitudes of the filmmakers and how they synthesize their love of DIY film and bicycles. As we talked over brunch a mere two days before the tour was set to begin DeFreese was extremely animated as she explained their processes including building their own dolly system out of roller skates and PVC piping, or used a spy cam to view the shot while filming by bike, none of which comes out as anything less than exceptionally professional in the final product.

Though the most excitement is sure to come out during their screenings, this blog aims to show at least a little bit of how Field Guide to November Days aims to be a radically innovative queer, experimental, bike-filmed feature.

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Pride countdown begins with the weekdays

alleyhector — Mon, 14 Jun 2010 15:47:19 +0000

Rai Villanueva will help kick off Pride with Thursday's gay ass Diesel party

Recently added events starred like so*

Truthfully, I think I’ve been putting off the Pride 2010 calendar because there’s do damn much to do that I’m overwhelmed. So let’s take this piece by piece. First, there’s plenty to do before we even get to the weekend. Workin’ stiffs, of which I now be one, gird your loins and take one for the team. It’s gonna be a busy week.

Tonight

Pride Pub quiz – Did you know that it’s the 40th anniversary of the first Pride parade commemorating the June 1969 Stonewall riots? That’s why June is Pride month kids. Do you know about Harvey Milk day and Anita Bryant, Lon Mabon and the OCA? Have you ever been to the Lesbian Herstory Archives? Well, gear up your uber gay trivia because this pub quiz is gonna be both fun and educational. I’m putting on my hot librarian glasses cuz the competition is gonna be stiff…

*Gay Pride Kickoff Gay Skate!
Strap on some rollerskates and go kick it with the gays at Oak’s Park. A great way to roll into pride.$6. all ages, bring food donations for Esther’s Pantry. More

Wednesday

Fame/Gay Pizza – First club night of the week especially for the Nopo alterna-crowd. Live set by The Lovers and DJs Tender, Alizeh and Party Martyr. Worth the trek up north.

Thursday

The nights truly start tonight. If your boss expects your best Friday morning he’s gonna be disappointed.

Pride Pants party – I’m too cheap to busy Diesel jeans but I sure as hell sport ‘em when they come my way. And I have no hesitation before attending one of their swag-laden parties. But the real reason to attend this soiree, besides Saucebox’s kick-ass Asian fusion is my girl Sugar Rai‘s artwork and live aerosol painting.

Gender Bender benefit – Fantastically entertaining fundraiser that goes to a member of our trans community for medical expenses. Next year though, the E Room might consider looking farther than their own doors for deserving community members.

Paparazzi – Walk the red carpet with larger than life drag-celeb-impersonators. Will we see a catfight between Marilyn Monroe and Brangelina? I Hope so!

Do the Dark – Fagula’s fabulous monthly Thursday party is the new insider’s secret. If you fancy yourself famous enough to come dressed as yourself this might be the party for you. Oh yeah, and there’s a weenie roast on the patio. Oh those summer nights!

Goldspur – Cowboy fetishes and country fantasies are no longer just for the boys. Hot cowpokes of all kinds of genders will be two-stepping into your heart and stingin’ you with their spurs. Rough ridin’ never felt so right before.

Fun stuffz for the weekend! Ping pong, dancing, carnival, art, Beartown…

perrywinkle — Thu, 10 Jun 2010 18:30:41 +0000

Spin Slayer!

This weekend begins on Thursday – at least for gays and dykes in this queer, queer town, and this little guide will help you win it and not hit the net too early. So get your sweatbands on and pull on those short shorts, because it’s gonna get hot and sweaty! Not only is it Beartown 15 all this weekend, it’s also a grab bag of fun stuff to do from sports to art and dancing.

Kaia Wilson kicks things off on Thursday, serving up some hot shots and killer teams to raise money to send her to the Gay Games in Cologne, Germany. Kaia’s Ping-Pong Pandemonium will feature star-studded teams (Donna Dresch, Carrie Brownstein, Explode into Colours and more) and local Portland DJs Permanent Wave (Jenny Hoyston) and Dan Moe. The winner will face Kaia in the final round. Bone up on your Ping-Pong knowlege here, and read the history of Kaia’s shot at Gay Games glory here. There will also be an exhibition match by pro table tennis players. More info 21+/$5-? sliding scale. 8pm. Point.

But thats just the warmup round!

Mendy's Big Gay Beach Bash at The Red Cap Garage in Portland

Friday night brings you to the brink of your first real decision of the weekend: Which of the myriad of parties to pick to get your feet moving. Hit up the new, piss-and-vinegar but oh-so-lovable queer night up north, BENT, or head to downtown funzone that is Red Cap for Mendy’s Gay Beach Bash.

BENT gives you sweaty, gritty queers packed into the indie little Blue Parrot bar in NoPo, and Red Cap gives you beach party themed fun, free beach gear for the first 100, muscly go-gos, Dj Adam West on the decks and drinks specials!

If you feel like staying closer to the SE, stop by BABE CAVE, the new queer night at Holocene. Groove some new tunes spun by DJ Girlfriends, DJ Mani (crave), and Chelsea Starr, and sip on a tight drink while enjoying the view and the crowd.

But before you head to either of the above, make a stop-off at the Q Center Gender Free For All! Carnival Fundraiser from 7-11pm. Carnival games, amazing prizes donated from local queer-friendly businesses, and Coyote Grace will be performing. Friday is also Dirty Queer, the country’s only queer x-rated open mic, at In Other Words. That’s two quality pre-game opportunities. Keep it between the lines, and aim for the break.

BENT: 21+/$3 @ The Blue Parrot, 3416 N Lombard, party o’clock
Mendy’s Big Gay Beach Bash @ Red Cap Garage, 21+/$? party o’clock
Dirty Queer @ IOW, 8th and K’worth, 630-830ish, $1-? sliding scale donation at the door, 18+
BABE CAVE @ Holocene. 21+/$3. 10th and SE Morrison. Party o’clock.

Girl Crush at Crush Bar, Portland Lesbian Dance Night

Saturday is a little more relaxed. Get up, do some yoga, have a coffee, go to the farmer’s market, and then tosp by one of our local gay bars for a cool drink (it’s supposed to be 81 degrees!)in the afternoon, thenhit up local artist and performer Myriah J. Day’s Art Opening @ The Waypost on your way before heading to a dance floor or house party of your choice. Maricon @ Matador would be a good pick! Maricon @ Matador, 19th and NW Burnside, 21+/FREE. It’s also a big night for the bears @ Beartown 15.Woof. Check out our beary full schedule here. Game!

Sunday gives you plenty of opportunities to tie up some loose ends if you haven’t had enough yet. Check out Crush for some gay brunch (14th and Morrison) and Girl Crush, another dance night primarily for the ladies, later that evening, same location. Sunday @ Aalto (21+, 11-late) is also a good choice, or take a breezy stroll with your sweetie to detox, as the balmy weather is supposed to stick around all weekend.

And if you’ve got a hardier constitution you can join other queers in a metaphorical (I think) circle jerk with Savory Pink‘s Queer Porn night at In Other Words (8 NE Killingsworth). In a world of fetishized trans people Doing it Ourselves promises to be a hot collection of trans women and their partners of all genders engaging in sex the way they want to be represented.

Set, game, match! And don’t forget it’s PRIDE next weekend! Be safe!

Growl for Beartown 15

alleyhector — Tue, 08 Jun 2010 18:00:20 +0000

Last year's Beartown 14. Photo by Stephen Cassell

Can you believe that Portland has been celebrating fuzzy, round, gay men for more than half my life now? That’s right, 2010 ushers in the 15th Annual Beartown from this Thursday the 10th through Sunday the 13th at the Jupiter Hotel (800 E Burnside).

Once again, the schedule is ridiculously exhausting. Whether you’re hot tubbing, cigar smoking, or dancing in your underwear, you’ll be doing it with other friendly beasts. And boy howdy, how exciting will be be to see a bunch if hairy dudes descend on Hawthorne’s shopping district?

Of course one of the biggest events will be the Release the Beast Dance Party with tag-team DJ’s Sam Storicks (of Bearracuda Portland) and DJ BradPDX (Crush Bar, “Tilt-A-Whirl” 2009) as well as returning host(ess) Foxxy Bernadette. And if you’ve still got growl in your soul left for Pride weekend, absolutely head over to Branx for Bearracuda.

But let’s not get ahead of ourselves. A complete schedule for Beartown is below. And if you’re not convinced, check out photos from last year’s Beartown.

Included in Full Package
Open to the Public/Possible Extra Cost or Cover Charge (See Event Descriptions for cost info)
BearTown 15 Pass Holders Only

Thursday

Early-Bear Registration Sign-in 6pm-9pm @Eagle Portland
Meet ‘n’ Grrreet 7pm-11pm @Eagle Portland

Friday

Registration Sign-in 10am-8pm @Jupiter Hotel
Bear Den Hospitality Suite 10am-5pm / 11pm-2am @Jupiter Hotel
Shopping Invasion on Hawthorne Blvd 10am-2pm
Cheers, Cheese & Chocolates Wine Tasting 1:30pm-4pm @Jupiter Hotel
Bear Soup Hot Tub Party 2pm-4pm @Portland Tub & Tan
Shed the Shirt Happy Hour & T-Shirt Exchange 5pm-7pm @Crush
Smoke-Out Cigar Social 7pm-9:30pm @Jupiter Hotel
Unleashed UnderBear Dance Party 9pm-12m @CC Slaughters

Saturday

Registration Sign-in 10am-4pm @Jupiter Hotel
Bear Den Hospitality Suite 11:30am-5pm / Midnight-3am @Jupiter Hotel
Meet the Contestants Continental Brunch 9am-11am @Jupiter Hotel
Beauty & the Beast Bingo with the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence 11:30am-3pm @Jupiter Hotel
Animal Instincts – Bears at the Bathhouse 2pm-5pm @Steam Portland
Cocktail Hour 5:30pm-6:30pm @Red Lion Inn
Banquet Dinner 6:30pm-7:30pm @Red Lion Inn
Mr. Oregon Bear and Mr. Oregon Cub Contest 7:30pm-9:30pm @Red Lion Inn
Release the Beast Dance Party 9pm-2am @Jupiter Hotel

Sunday

Bear Den Hospitality Suite 9am-11am @Jupiter Hotel
Brunch Cruise on the Willamette River 11:30am-3:30pm on board the Willamette Star
Hugs ‘n’ Tugs Farewell Bear-B-Que 5pm-8pm @Eagle Portland

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QDoc moview (P)reviews – ‘Topp Twins: Untouchable Girls’

alleyhector — Sat, 05 Jun 2010 00:00:51 +0000

Topp Twins characters Ken & Ken

Why does it take really cool things forever to be on US radars? We’ve certainly been missing the boat by not recognizing the amazing comedic and musical genius of lesbian New Zealanders the Topp Twins. Hopefully the release of their new documentary, Topp Twins: Untouchable Girls, screening this Sunday at 7pm as part of QDoc, will remedy that. Because this is my favorite film of the fest.

The dynamic duo of Jools and Lynda are also taking their act on the open US road with shows here in Portland on Tuesday at the Mission Theater (1624 NW Glisan). A mix of sketch comedy, yodeling and folk music the Topp Twins have been beloved in their home country for decades as well as outspoken leaders in gay rights. Even though they have never shied away from their stances nor their personal sexualities, a diverse country of farmers both more and less gay-friendly have embraced the folksters unlike any other act.

Untouchable Girls chronicles their lives as ranchers, musicians and activists and blends hilarious interviews with their alter egos with serious topics such as Jools’ battle with cancer, coming out to their parents and a nation, and the real love both have for their respective partners.

At 52-years-old and touting obscure references, butch style and much bawdier and riskier acts than fluffly statestide lesbians like Ellen (after a stint in the New Zealand army the twins now quip that their military service taught them to “…meet interesting people and learn how to kill them”) you wouldn’t think the sisters would be that popular. You’d be wrong. As one of their comedian colleagues notes, “…on paper yodeling lesbian twins should be commercial death…but they work.” And you’re just as likely to see gruff Kiwi farmers in their audience as card-carrying lesbians.

In fact, a favorite among men, and my favorite set of characters as well, are Ken & Ken, a sheep farmer and TV sportscaster who seem to be stars in and of themselves. The film explains that blokes want to meet these dudes all the time, nearly disavowing the real life women behind the characters. This is made all the easier as Ken Moller (the farmer) is in love with Camp Mother, another of the twins’ characters.

In a world where activist lesbos with acoustic guitars are often ridiculed, the Topp Twins use humor to their advantage. Genuinely good-natured, these Kiwi cowgirls make absolutely no apologies for their beliefs and sexuality, but at the same time appeal to a wide audience. An audience that will soon include the northern hemisphere. Because, as Jools Topp has said, “Sometimes getting people to laugh is the most political thing you can do”.

Check out a trailer for the film below.

Weekend to do list of fun

alleyhector — Thu, 03 Jun 2010 19:39:26 +0000

Friday is going to be ridiculous, including Dolly Parton Hoot Night...

Holy goddess-mother it’s Pride season and there’s going to be a helluv a lot of ways to have fun this summer from here on out. I’ll do my best to highlight with I think sounds best but, you know, feel free to school me…

Tonight

QDoc – Um yeah, this is actually all weekend. Get it while the gettin’s good. Opening party tonight with the hottest old drag queen and director Michelle Lawler. Hell yeah!

First Thursday – You already know about it if you’re artsy, and a lotta us gays are. But you should definitely check out Brent Pruitt’s Commie Pinko Fag exhibit at the Men’s Wellness Center and Audrey Lawson’s Queer Sex senior thesis show at PNCA.

Friday

Feyonce Revival Show – Hairy drag at its best from Wayne Bund.

Art Party – Freak & Geek Pride Edition features weird ass video and gay ass haircuts. And everybody’s favorite gay artsy DJ wonder twins. Yeah!

Dolly Parton Hoot Night – In the land of “Keep Portland Weird” this is the most mainstream gay event of the night. Local musicians cover Dolly and I bet even let you sing along in this Siren Nation fundraiser.

La Lucha opening Night Dance Party – Feel the Latin heat at Boxxes.

Saturday

Wait…is there seriously no big Saturday only night except for Anna’s birthday and the Crawfish Boil? Lucky you guys with your lack of public competition! Well, if you don’t know these folks then you best be going to Chicas Who Brunch in the morning and QDOC at night.

Sunday

Latino Gay Pride – The big day at the Jupiter Hotel. Spanish speakers know how to party. Trust me.

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Rose Festival homophobes attempt to cancel Circus Project’s ‘Duende’

alleyhector — Thu, 03 Jun 2010 16:42:43 +0000

Jennifer Cohen of the Circus Project

The Circus Project seems like a great organization. A non-profit which utilizes the unique power of art to transcend social barriers and inspire personal transformation, they put on world-class aerial performances and provide expert training, all the while funding outreach to homeless and at-risk youth in the Portland metro area.

But it seems, despite prior approval (which I don’t personally think is necessary) The Rose Festival coordinators threatened to cancel “Duende,” after audiences complained about a kiss between two women. While the show does go on the times have been changed in order not to ruffle the feathers of “family friendly” audiences.

So please take a moment to read this letter and show your support in any way you see fit, be it attending a show, writing to the Rose Fest or otherwise taking up space as a big ol’ gaymo in this town.

Dearest Friends,

I’m writing to ask for your support at the Rose Festival over the next two weekends. This past weekend was the opening of the Circus Project’s new show, “Duende”. Although most people who saw the show had rave reviews, the Rose Festival received five complaints after one show about a scene in which two women kiss. In response, they asked me to cut that scene. When I refused, they threatened to cancel the show. (I had told them before they signed our contract that there was a scene with two women kissing which they approved) After much negotiation and thanks to some friends who immediately called to protest and help spread the word on Facebook, we were tentatively reinstated, though our show times have been changed so as not to offend the “family audiences” earlier in the day.

Please friends, if you’re available this weekend or next, come on out to the show. We could really use supportive faces in the audience. This coming weekend, the navy will arrive, which could potentially add to the tension.

Our stage is located in waterfront village, just off of Morrison. It costs $5 to get into the village. Because it’s an outdoor show, we do have to cancel if it’s raining (anything more then a light drizzle). Our new showtimes (weather permitting) are:

Fridays: 6pm & 9pm
Saturdays: 6pm & 9pm
Sundays: 6pm

Please come show your support and let the Rose Festival know if you enjoy the show!

Thanks so much Friends.

With love, Jenn

QDoc 2010 spreads queer documentary love all weekend long

alleyhector — Wed, 02 Jun 2010 17:47:24 +0000

Portand’s QDoc is the only queer documentary film festival in the US (and one of two in the world) held annually at the intimate Clinton Street Theater (2522 SE Clinton). That’s pretty special. But not surprising for our hometown.

It’s also a great kick-off to Pride season to reflect on our LGBT roots before we start the party. Several qPDXers got the chance to screen some of these films and will be providing reviews in the next couple days. But the folks organizing the fest have put together a pretty fabulous preview on their own:

First up is director Michelle Lawler’s Forever’s Gonna Start Tonight, reviewed by Perry in a post that features 2 other drag features. Lawler, an adorable Leonardo DiCaprio-looking dyke if I remember by 90s correctly, will be joined by her amazing subject Vicki Marlane at the opening night party following the screening. Hosted by the savory Scandinavian Broder and Savoy Tavern & Bistro, you can also enjoy complimentary hors d’oeuvres and beverages just steps from the theater. Merriment and music by Sneakin’ Out make this a perfect Thursday night soiree.

The other 2 features in Perry’s flix pix are Friday’s Drag King Extravaganza playing with Storme Delarverie: The Lady Of The Jewel Box, which screen at 9pm.

More reviews are on their way but in the meantime check out the full schedule below:

Thursday

7:30 – Forever’s Gonna Start Tonight

9 – Party!

Friday

7 – 8: The Mormon Proposition

9 – Drag King Extravaganza

Saturday

1:30 – Unsung: Sylvester

4 – Edie & Thea: A Very Long Engagement

6 – William S Burroughs: A Man Within

8:30 – Le Tigre: On Tour

Sunday

Noon – Special sneak preview

3 – Other Nature

4:45 – Out in the Silence

7 – The Topp Twins: Untouchable Girls

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La Lucha – Latino Gay Pride begins tomorrow

alleyhector — Wed, 02 Jun 2010 01:15:11 +0000

Mexican wrestlers at 2009's La Lucha. Photo by Stephen Casselll

It seems the gay high holidays are officially upon us. Tomorrow begins some events, brunches and celebrations caliente with 2010′s La Lucha – Latino Gay Pride week. As you can see, last year was a blast, and I’m sure this year’s parties at Boxxes and the Jupiter Hotel will be equally filled with hip-swinging, Mexican wrestler masking wearing, rainbow orgullo y divertido. Here’s a schedule of heritage happiness.

UPDATED SCHEDULE

Voz Alta, Wednesday, June 2, 6pm – 9pm

Miracle Theatre, 525 SE Stark, Portland OR

Voz Alta or “loud voice” kicked-off the 2009 Portland Latino Gay Pride Celebration. Partnering with Miracle Theatre, approximately 100 individuals enjoyed an evening of poetry, song, dance, and dramatic performances. For La Lucha 2010, be prepared for another powerful presentation of music, drama, and song. Suggested Donation: $5.00

Literary Event: Featuring Charlie Vázquez & Charles Rice-González

Thursday, June 3, 6:30pm – 9pm

Aura Restaurant + Lounge, 1022 W Burnside, Portland OR

Straight from New York City … Charlie Vázquez is a radical Bronx-bred writer and literary event organizer of Cuban and Puerto Rican descent. Charles Rice-González was born in Puerto Rico and reared in the Bronx and is a writer, long-time community and LGBT activist, and Executive Director of BAAD! (The Bronx Academy of Arts and Dance). Charles Rice-González reads from Chulito (Alyson, 2010) a novel about a tough, sexy hip hop-loving, young Latino man coming out and coming of age in the South Bronx. Charlie Vázquez reads from Contraband: A Revolution of the Soul (Rebel Satori, 2010), a novel about a secretive government worker who escapes to underground tunnel communities during a bloody revolution/civil war in the United States. Local Portland Writers will also be a part of this special evening. Suggested Donation: $5.00

Book Reading & Signing: Featuring Charlie Vázquez & Charles Rice-González

Friday, June 4, (tentative) 3pm

Portland State University

Charles Rice-González reads from Chulito (Alyson, 2010) a novel about a tough, sexy hip hop-loving, young Latino man coming out and coming of age in the South Bronx. Charlie Vázquez reads from Contraband: A Revolution of the Soul (Rebel Satori, 2010), a novel about a secretive government worker who escapes to underground tunnel communities during a bloody revolution/civil war in the United States. FREE

La Lucha Dance Party, Friday, June 4,

7pm VIP Reception, 9pm Doors Open

Boxxes, 1035 SW Stark, Portland OR

Last year, a night of dancing, music and fun was had by over 300 attendees. For La Lucha 2010 we will have more surprises and fun in store, the dance floor will be “caliente” and there will be lots of Papis and Chicas celebrating all night long. Door Charge (starting 9pm): $5.00

American Sueño, Miracle Theatre, Friday, June 4, 8pm

Miracle Theatre, 525 SE Stark, Portland OR

American Sueño shares the stories of four marginalized individuals in search of their version of the American Dream: A closeted gay musician, his sister, a drag performer, and a homeless person. To realize their dreams, they each must decide, “What am I willing to sacrifice in order to make my American Dream a reality?” Ticket Price: General Admission/$20.00, Students/$15.00. Go to www.milagro.org to purchase

Chicas Who Brunch, Saturday, June 5, 11am – 1pm

Jupiter Hotel Courtyard, 800 East Burnside, Portland OR

This special brunch is open to everyone and is an opportunity to focus the attention on LGTBQ Latinas, their experiences and contributions. A combination of networking and sharing takes place. In addition, the 2010 Mariposa Award recipients will be recognized. This is a great way to celebrate las Latinas in our lives. Ticket Price: $25.00

Voces de la Juventud (Youth Voices), Saturday, June 5

3pm – 5pm, Room 327, Smith Memorial Student Union, Portland State University

Special guest authors Charlie Vázquez and Charles Rice-González,will educate, entertain, and inspire young people to use their voice in expressing themselves. Through Spoken-word, Original Poetry, and Story-telling, youth will explore and learn the power of their Own Voice. FREE

Portland Latino Gay Pride Festival, Sunday, June 6, 4pm – 8pm

Jupiter Hotel, 800 East Burnside, Portland OR

The closing event for Portland Latino Gay Pride is the annual Festival held at Jupiter Hotel. Last year, close to 600 individuals attended. Get ready for an amazing La Lucha 2010 Festival, local and national entertainers and artists will perform and the 2010 Mariposa Award recipients will be recognized. The festival is a 21 and over event. Suggested Donation: $5.00

For more information and to find out how you can be involved contact David Martinez at (503) 307-9143 or email at latinogaypridepdx@yahoo.com

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Photos from the PSU Queer Prom

alleyhector — Tue, 01 Jun 2010 14:04:16 +0000

Queer Prom masquerade

School is almost out for summer, but the university gays and lesbians wanted to send off their lavendar grads in style with last Friday’s Portland State University Queer Prom. qPDX photographer and PSU student, CROD, was there to catch all the action in pictures.

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Don’t shade your eyes for Peep Show

alleyhector — Mon, 31 May 2010 18:06:57 +0000

Sally Ingus Wilder

Variety shows, drag and performance art in Portland can be hit or miss. For as many mind-blowing acts, there are long drawn out talent shows featuring more talking than artistry. But local (and NICE) drag diva Artemis Chase has hit on something fabulous with this year’s Miss Thing so I have no doubts that tomorrow’s Peep Show will be equally worth seeing.

I was just discussing how Portland’s emerging big city status had queer happenings on every night of the week, except Tuesday, when we were all home watching Glee. Now, you don’t have to take a break from the scene at all. And yet true to our humble wild west roots, cover will be a measly 2 buckaroos and you can get 5 drinks for $6. Take that NYC!

But seriously, there are more of my favorite drag performers under one roof at this thing than I may have ever seen before. Newcomer Sally Ingus Wilder has quickly become a star and every thematic performance is both silly, sexy and unique like no other. Fannie Mae Darling is always a riot, and I can even put up with her scatalogical humor in exchange for all the other wonderful craziness she exudes. And Burlesquire? Forget about it. I swoon like nobody’s business when these hot as hell gender benders grace the stage with their skillful and fashionable dance moves. And I haven’t seen them in awhile, so I look forward to that particular treat.