All posts tagged with: Photo

Premier Redford, the first Alberta Premier to attend a Calgary Pride event, along with Mr. Gay Canada 2012 People’s Choice winner, Brian Webb.

Calgary Pride 2012 is a year to go down in their history. It was a perfect sunny day, attendance records were smashed as over 30,000 people came to celebrate culture and diversity in the community, and for the first time ever, an Alberta Premier attended the Pride festivities

“It’s fun to be here,” stated Premier Redford, the first Alberta Premier to ever attend Calgary Pride. “This is just another festival that celebrates part of our community.”

Ok, let’s be honest, gay pride isn’t exactly, ‘just another festival’, but it was a big political move for the conservative party leader.

“I’m very proud of the fact that I’m a different kind of Premier than we’ve had before,” Premier Redford explained. “I’ve been very consistent with my views with respect to the support of the gay community and human rights. I’m very proud of that.”

The Premier admitted their government has more work to do to protect the rights LGBT community.

“We are going to continue to ensure first of all that fundamentally in Alberta we have put in place what we need to ensure that all human rights are protected,” said Premier Redford. “I’m very optimistic about everyone’s rights in this province.”

The Alberta Premier was also quick to recognize the importance of celebrating diversity in the community and to keep the dialogue open.

“It’s really important that we keep celebrating and talking about this,” explained Premier Redford. “If you compare back to 1990 when 195 people came to Pride, versus today where there are 30,000 just celebrating life, that’s a tremendous accomplishment. But whether we are talking about gay rights […], it is important to talk about fundamental human rights.”

Although the Premier made no commitment for her government to tackle some of the pressing issues around protecting the rights of transgendered people in Alberta’s Human Rights Act, or any other equal human rights issues the province still faces, she was optimist about ensuring the rights currently in place are protected and respected.

“We are all Albertans,” Premier Redford stated. “We are an incredibly diverse population, and what I have committed to is making sure human rights are respected, and as people make choices in their life that we have a community that everyone’s choice is respected.”

Jenna Talackova and feminist lawyer, Gloria Allred, in the 2012 LA Pride Parade.

2012 has been a roller-coaster year for 23 year-old Jenna Talackova, who has just be named Grand Marshall of the Vancouver Pride Parade.

Jenna was born and raised in Vancouver, BC. Born as a male, by age 4 Jenna began to identify as a female. By at 14 she began hormone therapy, and when she turned 19 she underwent gender re-assignment surgery.

In 2010 Jenna competed in the Miss International Queen pageant in Thailand, a competition for trans-gendered and transsexual women. She then went on to compete in 2012 for Miss Universe Canada.

Organizers of the Miss Universe competition disqualified Jenna from the competition because she was not a naturally born female. Upon receiving the news, Jenna engaged the renowned feminist lawyer, Gloria Allred, to represent her. They took their case to the Miss Universe Organization and to Donald Trump, the owner of the competition, and eventually reversed their decision citing, “[a]s long as she meets the standards of legal gender recognition requirements of Canada, which we understand that she does, Jenna Talackova is free to compete in the 2012 Miss Universe Canada pageant.”

Jenna competed in the 2012 Miss Universe Canada competition and made it to the top 12. She was one of four women to receive the Miss Congeniality award, but did not make it into the top five.

Joining Jenna as Grand Marshal’s for the 2012 Vancouver Pride Parade are local gay sporting advocate, Bill Munroe, and community  activist, David Holtzman. Jenna has made several appearances in 2012, including the LA Pride Parade in West Hollywood, California.

Boystown in West Hollywood just got a big splash of colour for the month of June thanks to an initiative by the City of West Hollywood. The crosswalk at the intersection of San Vicente Boulevard and Santa Monica Boulevard has been pained in a rainbow theme in celebration of pride month.

At a cost of $12,920USD, the City of West Hollywood turned the pedestrian crossing into the rainbow colours just in time for LA Pride. This is the first time in North America a city has painted a pedestrian crossing in pride colours. The crosswalk will be maintained in the pride colours though out the month of June and will go back to it’s traditional red brick colour afterwards.

Mayor Jeff Prang and Councilmember John Duran both supported the initiative. West Hollywood City Hall was also lit up in lavender lights and LAX pylons glowed purple in honour of Pride.

Gigantic waterslides. Above ground pools. DJ’s. Bars. Hot guys. The fun, wet and wild times are hitting LA Pride for the first time as SummerTramp, a 10,000 square foot portable water park party, slides into West Hollywood for the first time ever for the June 8-10 event.

“West Hollywood Park has been totally renovated for 2012 and this wonderful space has allowed us to be super creative. SummerTramp is already a wildly popular downtown event and now our attendees can ‘Swim and Slide with Pride,’” said Jeff Consoletti, Event Producer. “SummerTramp will help LA PRIDE totally blow it out of the water.”

SummerTramp at LA PRIDE will feature the biggest water slide in California, two above ground pools and a mix of the hottest local DJ’s and hosts all weekend, including Aaron Elvis, Casey Alva, Josh Peace, Chris Bowen, Daisy O’Dell and more. Victor Rodriguez will host

‘The Mess Around Lot Hop’ on both Saturday and Sunday night. “SummerTramp is a hidden paradise where drag queens flirt with lesbians, leather daddy’s swim with WeHo boys, east-side hipsters hang with DTLA queens, jocks canoodle with twinks and gay guys meet ladies,” said co-creator Andres Rigal. “It’s an amazing mix of people of all stripes and dots celebrating summer… together!” Rigal created SummerTramp with international promoter Luke Nero.

SummerTramp, the official LA PRIDE water park, is free with event admission. Advance tickets are on sale now.

Moments after I completed a personal best in the April Fool's Run half marathon - 1:39:36!

 Arriving at the start line of any race is a big accomplishment. It’s a time to reflect on your training journey and all the hart work you put into getting there. But when the gun goes off and you begin your race, remember to smile!

Enjoy the race. Remember what made you sign-up for the challenge. Your courage, training and hard work are about to pay-off!

Most races have official photographers along the race route to capture you during the race and most importantly, as you cross the finish line.

There are also many spectators along the course that will be cheering you on and taking photographs. Remember, they want to see happy, cheerful runners who are enjoying the race.

As you approach the finish line your natural reaction is to speed up – give it everything you’ve got, which is great, but what’s just as important is to remember to finish upright and smiling!

Why? Because as you approach and cross the finish line the photographer will take your photo as your souvenir for your big day. You want that moment to show you arriving at the finish line with your hands proudly waving above your head, smile on your face and running with enthusiasm! You’ve completed your goal!

At the end of the run when you receive your medal, it’s your reward. Make sure you take a moment to have your photo taken wearing your medal after your race too – because you’ll appreciate the memories – especially if you’ve completed you’re first half or full marathon or set a personal best.

Nestled in the Gulf Islands, between Vancouver and Vancouver Island is Salt Spring Island. It is one of the largest and most populated gulf islands. Over 10,000 people call Salt Spring Island home. It’s easy to see why. It’s full of natural beauty.

The island has a number of small villages with shops, restaurants and services – the largest village is Ganges. Visitors to Salt Spring can travel by BC Ferry or by float plane on Salt Spring Island air. There are a number of hotels and bed + breakfasts on the island.

For a quick weekend getaway there is lots to do – hiking, biking, beach combing, kayaking, and shopping at the many artisan boutique shops. Salt Spring Island also had an abundance of island made products including wine, cheese, coffee, produce and lamb.

Brian Webb, NOH8 Campaign photo shoot at LA Pride 2011

“I am deeply concerned by the violence and discrimination targeting L.G.B.T. persons around the world, whether it is passing laws that criminalize L.G.B.T. status, beating citizens simply for joining peaceful L.G.B.T. pride celebrations, or killing men, women and children for their perceived sexual orientation.”

- President Barack Obama

While President Obama recently urged foreign aid workers and governments to support LGBT rights initiatives, across the US the fight is still on for equal and human rights.

On November 4, 2008, the State of California amended their Constitution to ban same-sex marriage though legislation titled, Proposition 8. Immediately the LGBT community took action through grassroots community initiatives and protests being formed in response.

Celebrity photographer, Adam Bouska, and his partner, Jeff Parshly, established the NOH8 Campaign, a photographic silent protest. The West Hollywood based activism campaign began on December 13, 2008, and three years later continues to fight for equality for same-sex marriage and LGBT rights in California and beyond.

The signature Adam Bouska NOH8 Campaign photos feature subjects with duct tape over their mouths, symbolizing their voices being silenced by Prop 8 and similar legislation. The signature “NOH8” logo is painted / tattooed on one cheek in protest.

Since its inception three years ago, the NOH8 Campaign has grown to over 18,000 faces, 2011 being the largest year yet. The campaign started with portraits of everyday Californians. The campaign has become so popular and successful that politicians, military personnel, law enforcement, celebrities and people from around the world have also joined the campaign and had their photo taken. Adam has even brought the campaign on the road and has visited three other countries, including Canada.

The NOH8 Campaign hopes to fulfill it’s goal of compiling the images for a large-scale media campaign.

To find out how you can get involved, visit the NOH8 Campaign website.

Tommy Europe isn’t your average certified personal trainer and fitness coach. Tommy is a former CFL star turned celebrity trainer who is devoted to helping people get into shape to lead healthy, active lifestyles.

If you are thinking that it’s time to start shedding some of those extra pounds and making better lifestyle choices Tommy’s advice is simple and to the point. Set your goals, get a trainer and stick to the plan.

“Write down your goals,” said Tommy. “Revisit them regularly so you follow your plan and don’t fall short.”

To set your goals, make sure they are attainable, realistic, and measurable. Write down your goals and set a timeline to reach them by.

There are so many different methods to staying in shape from the gym, bootcamp and crossfit, to yoga, Pilates and running. Which one do you choose?

“If you are new to fitness, get a personal trainer,” Tommy explained.

A trainer will work with you to set up routines to help you reach your goals. They will provide you with your exercise plan, give nutrition advice and provide the motivation you need to get to your end result.

“Don’t be discouraged if you don’t like your trainer,” Tommy said, “You might need to try a few until you find the one that is right for you.”

Once you have your personal trainer and an exercise plan that is built for you, what you are eating and when is next.

“Stay on your plan by eating a balanced diet,” Tommy recommended. “You need to fuel your body. Pay attention to what you eat and the portion size. Remember, nutrition is most important.”

Meet with your personal trainer regularily and talk about your goals. Over time they will change, just like your body will change.

“Set your goals,” Tommy said point blank. “Get off your butt and go out and do it. You have to start now.”

Ian - Mr International Leatherboy 2010

In February 2010, Ian McKechnie was titled, Eastern Canada Leather boy, and just a few months later in July 2010 he was named Mr International Leatherboy.

“Since that time I have been publically stripped naked, tied-up, beaten, flogged, kicked, punched, electrocuted, and set on fire,” said Ian. “It’s been a great freakin year!”

The youngest of seven children, Ian grew up in a blue collar, Roman Catholic family in Hamilton, Ontario. He is proud of his accomplishments as a second-degree black belt.

Thought his involvement in the Hamilton Pride Committee, Ian was introduced to the Golden Horseshoe Leather Association. Here Ian met his two leather mentors, Phil and John, who showed him the many facets of the leather community.

Sadly, his mentors passed away before they could see Ian win his International title.

“It is the memory of their love, boundless energy, and selfless commitment to the leather and bear communities that I take with me throughout this title year, and always,” Ian proudly said.

During his term, Ian shares his duties with Sir Hugh, International Leather SIR, and red warrior, International Community Bootblack 2010.

Ian has attended many Pride events and festivals over the past year as part of his duties, including Toronto Pride 2011.

Ian ended with, “I am proud to say that my name is Ian, and I am a Leather boy.”

Mr International Leatherboy, blogger Brian Webb, and DJ Pierre Fitch at Toronto Pride 2011

Photo by Brian Webb

Hollywood & Vine, an iconic address, it home to another icon, the Capitol Records Tower.  Few buildings are as closely associated with the music building that this historic tower.

Built in 1956 and resembling a stack of records on a turntable, the building features a blinking light at the top of the tower which spells out Hollywood in Morse code. This was Capitol Records way of subtly highlighting the fact they were the first major record label to be headquartered in Hollywood.As the industry shifted from New York and Broadway to Hollywood and the movies, many recording artists acted in films and television, Capitol was right there in the action.  The tower still houses the Capitol Studio.

Dubbed “the house that Nat built” due to the popularity and sales of Nat King Cole’s recordings. The studio has spawned some of the most timeless and treasured recordings in music history, from Judy Garland to the Beastie Boys. The first album recorded in the studio was “Frank Sinatra Conducts Tone Poems Of Color”. Before forming his own record label, Sinatra recorded some of his most memorable classics with Capitol; In The Wee Small Hours, Swing Easy & Come Fly With Me to name a few.

The future of the studio is in question as Capitol Records parent company EMI sold the tower and surrounding property to developers.  Although the building is on the List of Registered Historic Places it would be a shame to lose such an iconic recording studio.

For 26-year-old Dave, and 25-year-old Gerardo, their first two years on the international music scene as the DJ-duo has brought them to play at many popular clubs and at the coolest parties in the United States, Canada, Mexico and Brazil.

Both Dave and Gerardo found themselves attracted to music while still in school.

“Back in high school and college, both of us were into electro music,” said Dave.

As they both got older they started to explore their music interests, wanting to express themselves and to share their enthusiasm with others.

“We bought two turn tables and started practicing in the bedroom,” Dave explained. “We placed a few small clubs and then had our big debut at Splash in New York City.”

The two DJ’s work together to create an amazing energy inside a room.

“There are always two minds behind the deck,” said Dave as he describes what makes them unique. “We are always enhancing each track with something extra.”

DJ’ing gives them a chance to connect live with the audience.

“We get other people excited about the music,” Dave explained. “We can change the attitude of the crowd and give them something they will remember.”

As they duo began to play at more clubs they have taken learnings from the local cultures and adapted them into their music.

“Our sound has evolved as we started travelling internationally,” said Dave. “We’ve always wanted it to feel like a party with high intensity, driving base-lines with big room sound.”

As they continue to fill clubs and dance floors with energetic dancers, Gerardo said, “We want to be known for consistent energy and sound.”

But these two talented DJ’s share more than their passion for music in the DJ booth and in the music studio – they share their passion for each other in the at home and in the bedroom.

Dave and Gerardo are a couple who live together in their New York city home. DJing is just a part of their busy lives. Both work full time; Dave working in the advertising industry and Gerardo in science.

Outside of DJing the couple enjoy cooking dinner together and spending quiet evenings at home decompressing after their long workdays.

It’s not sunshine and roses every day. As with every relationship, they face challenges along the way.

“We are a couple,” explained Dave. “DJing is just one aspect. We are balancing our romantic life and try to separate and balance our work, not letting one over run the other. We maintain a professional relationship inside the DJ booth.”

As they continue to develop and grow their talents on the decks Dave and Gerardo look forward to expanding their passion by producing more music, DJ at the hottest clubs, and to go on a trip to Europe where they will share their music talents.

“We are really excited about what the future holds,” said Gerardo. “We are going to continue to grow as DJ’s and producers and it will make us work even harder to go even further.”

For more information on Dave and Gerardo, visit their website and ‘Like’ them on Facebook.

Betty DeGeneres, mother of talk-show host, Ellen DeGeneres, marches in the 2011 LA Pride Parade

Betty DeGeneres proudly marched down Santa Monica Blvd in West Hollywood, California during the 2011 LA Pride Parade. Betty is the mother of American stand-up comedienne, television host and actress, Ellen DeGeneres.

Betty first gained notoriety following her daughter’s highly-publicized coming out in 1997. Her first reaction was passive acceptance, but now she has become a passionate advocate for LGBT rights.

Betty is an active member of PFLAG, is the first non-gay spokesperson for the Human rights Campaign National Coming Out Project, and has a regular column on PlanetOut’s website called ‘Ask Betty’.

Betty was born on May 20, 1930 in New Orleans, Louisiana.

America’s first openinly gay late-night talk show hosts, Andy Cohen, has been awarded the Person of the Year by the organizers of LA Pride.

Andy, Emmy and Peabody Award winner, is Bravo’s Executive Vice President of Program and Development and the host of “Watch What Happens: Live”.

In June 2010, Andy was named one of TV Guide’s 25 Most Influential People in Television, and Out Magazine added him on their Out 100 List in 2008 and in 2011.

As Andy continues to put LGBT people in front of the camera and in the middle of America’s living room, he continues to help the community through his ability to make a positive and lasting impact.

This Vancouver Pride plan to attend one of the most fun afternoon parties on the water; a cruise along Vancouver’s Harbour, on the CruiseyT.

Vancouver’s Pride cruises feature hit DJ’s including  Zach Shore, Marcus Purnell, Adam Dreaddy and Nick Bertossi, and performers Joane-E, Mantra, Carlotta Gurl, Raye Sunshine and Jaylene Tyme.

There are four popular pride cruises to choose from:

• Leather & Denim – Sunday, July 24 – 3-7pm
• Go Go – Sunday, July 31 – 6 – 10pm
• White Party – Sunday, July 31 – 5 – 9pm
• Monday Party – Monday, August 1 – 4 – 8pm

Pride cruises sell out fast. Tickets can be purchased in Vancouver at Little Sister’s Bookstore or Priape, or online at www.cruiseyt.com.

This year is CruiseyT’s 20^th Annivesary serving Vancouver’s LGBT community and to date, CruiseyT they have raised over $600,000 for local LGBT organizations.

Leila Lambert, mother of Adam Lambert, proudly marched in the LA Pride Parade on Sunday, June 12, 2011, in West Hollywood, California. As a proud mother of her gay son, she was very happy to be in the LA Pride Parade.

Adam Lambert is from San Diego, California, and finished as the runner-up on the eighth season of American Idol in 2009. Today, Adam is a singer, songwriter and actor and is one of the few mainstream pop artists to launch his career on a major label in the United States.

Adam’s mother has been very supportive of both his career and his lifestyle choices. She has attended events in support LGBT rights and causes.

One of the most eligible young bachelors in the gay adult entertainment industry is 23 year-old Jayden Grey. Jayden has only been in the industry for just over a year, and in that time has made a name for himself, along with a loyal following.

Living in southern California, Jayden admits he’s on the hunt for Mr. Right.

“Yeah I am looking for a boyfriend and then see where it goes from there,” said Jayden.

True to his preferences in his scenes to date, Jayden likes guys that are older and masculine.

“I am really into the muscle jocks and Daddies. Smooth or moderately hairy,” Jayden explained.

If you think you’re Mr. Right for Jayden, here are three things you need to know:

1. Life hasn’t been easy for Jayden
2. Jayden is a really nice guy if you get to know him on a personal level
3. Jayden does not like drinking. Medical Marijuana is his drug of choice

Jayden also admits that he likes to keep his options open when it comes to sex.

“Its really not about being the top or bottom its about the connection and feelings you are sharing with one another,” said Jayden.

Jayden is probably best known for his sexy smile and gorgeous eyes, although if you’re looking to turn him on, Jayden says, “I love getting spit on, armpits, nipples.”

Jayden Grey’s Stats:

• Age: 23
• Height: 5’11″
• Weight: 160lbs
• Hair: Brown
• Eyes: Blue
• Preference: Versatile

Photo Credit: Jeff Vinnick

The Vancouver Sun Run is the largest timed running race event in Vancouver. It’s also celebration promoting positive community spirit. Last year, there were over 60,000 participants in the race.

The annual 10km Vancouver Sun Run winding through Vancouver promotes and raises awareness of the benefits of health and fitness and encourages entrants to embrace and celebrate a healthy lifestyle.

Since February 4, The Vancouver Sun Run InTraining clinics have been helping individuals and teams get ready for their big event on Sunday, April 17, 2011.

Not to worry, there are just over seven weeks left; lots of time to train and get registered for the big day.

Remember: It’s important to stretch after every single run, including training runs!

All participants will receive the commemorative cotton t-shirt and race bib.

Keep reading my blog for great nutrition and running tips in to the lead up to this and many other running events happening in metro Vancouver this spring.

An exclusive message from Jake Austin for myWebbSite.ca readers and followers of @br_webb:

Photo Credit: Mocha

If there is only one thing readers walk away with it is “Bullying should be a crime!” The unnecessary death of youths in our society is of great concern to me.

There is no reason that any person, gay or straight, should think that there is no alternative to suicide. As citizens, we need to stand up and raise light to this issue. FUCK HATE! NO HATE!!!

Show your support, go buy the shirt and wear it with pride, donate to the Trevor project (or any fundraiser), or next time your friend or family member uses a degrading homosexual word confront them.

Do your part to help stop the HATE!

I know I do!

Jake Austin

BC Place Stadium under renovation - Saturday, July 24, 2010

BC Place is currently undergoing a $458 million renovation. The primary project is to replace the aging air-supported dome. The Stadium was originally opening in 1983, and the Teflon roof has long outlived its original projected lifespan. The new state-of-the-art retractable roof will extend the life of BC Place Stadium by more than 30 years. The new cable-supported roof will be the largest cable and fabric retractable roof in the world and the retrofit is scheduled to be completed by early fall 2011.

Quick facts from the Province of British Columbia:

• A total of 350 people will be working on-site during construction.
• The upgrade will attract an additional 41 event days to Vancouver and the province per year.
• These additional events will increase the annual economic benefits of the stadium from nearly $60 million to an estimated $100 million annually, supporting thousands of jobs.
• Upgrading the building and systems for sustainability and green initiatives is expected to decrease the annual energy bill by an estimated 25 per cent, or approximately $350,000 per year.
• An additional $100,000 annually in maintenance costs associated with the current air-supported roof will also be saved. For example, the stadium will no longer need air-lock doors to support the roof.