The Ottawa Pride scene is much more group-oriented and far less corporate than Toronto’s: no barricades and no bullshit, just social groups, activism, straight alliances and a buttload of homos. The nightlife scene is pretty killer for the nation’s capital (notorious for hitting the hay by 9pm), and check these hotties, Graham and Kirk. Credit: Maha Rishi
Looky here: it’s Sammy and Jill from Yes Yes Y’all, who played the Pridin’ Dirty party at Babylon for Capital Pride. It’s always nice running into cats from the big smoke on foreign floors. You seem to party harder (read: glitter + alcoholism) with friends from home when you’re out of town. Credit: Maha Rishi
Sarah and Patrick make a lovely couple. Patrick may be straight, but that didn’t stop him from grinding it up at what was basically a hipster Pride bash at Babylon. And the hipster scene is versatile when it comes down to it. Straight today, gay tomorrow; always on trend. Credit: Maha Rishi
At Edge, Divine and Matty, two queens from TO in their civilian clothes, went for a dancefloor catwalk whirl. Matty is originally from Ottawa and relished the opportunity to come back in full effect with good friends for the celebration. Who doesn’t like coming back to their hometown after a few years in the big city to gloat and reminisce? Credit: Maha Rishi
Scarlett Bobo left Ottawa because there was a lack of a drag scene. She packed her bags and headed off to the big city to flaunt her gossamer wings. Back in her hometown, she was demure and ladylike in a mesh, neon-pink cat suit and spiky leather bra. She put the ass in class that night. Credit: Maha Rishi
The always gracious and welcoming Todd Klinck sent me this beautiful picture of Paul Bellini, Mandy Goodhandy and Scott Thompson from the opening night of 120 Diner. Is anyone else floored by how well Mandy’s chest is aging? As a woman myself, this is the bane of my existence. The fucking thing is aging like Madonna’s hands. Credit: Maha Rishi
Videofag, a performance venue in Kensington, had a little showcase to announce what the haps are in the space for the next six months. The open letter on Facebook started with “Dear fags . . .” and Becca booked it in her calendar immediately. Credit: Maha Rishi
Also at the Videofag showcase were (tallest to shortest), Minus, Shawn and Zach. Minus’s chain looks like a tiny dream-catcher, which is adorable, and Zach’s loose shirttails are perfect for summer. But I’m actually leaning toward Shawn’s no muss, no fuss American Apparel simple tee and jeans. It’s my all-time favourite look on a guy. Credit: Maha Rishi