The Fraternity

8th Annual Fraternity Beach Picnic
Sunday, July 31, from 11:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Spend a lazy Sunday afternoon with the Fraternity, as we head to Hanlan's Point on the Toronto Island for our annual BBQ and Beach Day. We've reserved the same great spot adjacent to the beach. This event is our way of thanking all our members for their support this year. Members and non-members are welcome for a small $5 fee to help cover costs. To RSVP and get more details, please forward an email to:

RSVP by Thursday, July 28. (If you do not register, you are still most welcome, but we cannot guarantee food availability for those not registered.)

In the heart of the Village
Pride Weekend House Party
Saturday, July 2 from 8 to 11 pm

You are invited to our annual Pride Party. This event is open to members and guests at no charge. Non-alcoholic beverages and snacks will be supplied by the club. Please note: if you want to drink alcohol, you must bring your own. No fair helping yourself to others' drinks. Volunteers will be needed to set up before and clean up after this event and are asked to indicate VOLUNTEER when they RSVP to attend. RSVP by June 30 and we’ll send you directions to the party:

Note DIFFERENT location for this meeting:
Frat Cabaret at Fuzion
Monday, June 6 from 5:45 pm to 9:00 pm
Fuzion Restaurant, 580 Church Street

Ken Lindsay and two talented singers will entertain us with great music after dinner. There will be appetizers and drinks from 5:45 to 6:30 (weather permitting on the patio) followed by an excellent dinner. Join us for a fun evening and welcome in the summer months. Fuzion is the place to be on June 6th!

Note: The Annual General Meeting of the Fraternity Board of Directors will be held during this meeting. Both nominations and election of Board members will take place.

Cost: Members $30; Guests $40; Students $20 (includes buffet dinner); pay at door with cash or credit card.

RSVP to by Thursday, June 2 to:

Forthcoming Dinners (please put these dates in your calendar now; topics to be announced)Monday, September 12 / Monday, October 3 / Monday, November 7
Friday, December 2 (Seasonal Dinner Party)

Museum of Contemporary Canadian Art

Saturday, May 28, 2011 at 1 pm

952 Queen Street West (east of Ossington)

www.mocca.ca/about-us/visit-mocca/

MOCCA was founded in 1999 and relocated to its present location on Queen West in 2005. Now that the weather is improving what better occasion to get to know this gem better. Right now the Scotiabank CONTACT Photography Festival is one of the main exhibits (www.mocca.ca/exhibitions/current-exhibitions/). Let's meet at 1 p.m. for a guided tour and perhaps brunch after somewhere close for those who are peckish. Please RSVP to Peter Kelly in care of:

by May 23. There is a suggested donation of $2 for the guided tour and a pay-what-you-can donation to the museum. Mention “Museum” in your email.

Inside Out Film Festival
Fraternity-sponsored screening of
Going Down in LA LA Land

Sunday, May 22, 2011 at 9:15 pm

TIFF Bell Lightbox, 350 King Street West (at John)

Based on the novel of the same name, Going Down in LA-LA Land is a sexy, uncensored look at our celebrity-obsessed culture and what an actor can, and will, do to survive in Hollywood. We are planning on meeting for dinner beforehand across the street at 7 p.m. Please RSVP to for dinner reservations, mentioning screening to:

Buy tickets ($13.00 each) online at http://www.insideout.ca/

By Phone: 10am to 7pm daily 416.599.TIFF (8433) Toll free: 1.888.599.8433

In Person: 10am to 10pm daily TIFF Bell Lightbox, Reitman Square,

350 King Street West (at John Street)

Annual General Meeting

The Future of The Fraternity is
Again on the Line...

Last year at about this time The Fraternity made an urgent appeal for members to join the Board of Directors. The Board gained some new members and lost others. We currently have seven active Board members, who have a lot of fun together and work very well together, but we simply do not have the manpower to adequately operate the club, particularly in the social events area. At the March Board meeting we concluded that, unless we get at least two more board members and two volunteers to assist them, we will not continue to serve after June 2011. This will mean winding the club down. We hope it does not come to that, but if more members do not come forward to join the Board or volunteer for committee work, we will have no other choice. We believe the club should be well run or not run at all. We can receive nominations for the Board up to and including the June meeting, when election of Board members will be held. Nominate someone you know or nominate yourself!

Wanted: A Few Good Men

President – Runs the Monthly Dinners and is the public face of The Fraternity (The current President will become the Chairman and run the Board meetings)

Social Director – We are pleased to announce that Peter Kelly has joined the Board as Social Director. Welcome Peter!

Webmaster - To maintain The Fraternity Website

Also Wanted:

Computer Literate Communicator - To work with Secretary on weekly email newsletter and website updates (as board member or committee member)

Monday, May 2 from 5:45 pm to 9:00 pm
Ramada Plaza Hotel, 300 Jarvis Street just south of Carlton
Monthly Dinner Meeting

Presentation and Preview:
Inside/Out Film Festival

Once again, The Fraternity presents a selection from, and discussion about, Toronto's world famous annual gay film festival, coming up in May. As well, the film to be sponsored by The Fraternity will be announced at the meeting.

Note: The Annual General Meeting of the Fraternity Board of Directors has been postponed until the June 6 meeting. Both nominations and election of Board members will take place at this meeting (see "Wanted: A Few Good Men" below).

Cost: Members $30; Guests $40; Students $20 (includes buffet dinner); pay at door with cash or credit card.
RSVP to email below by Thursday, April 28:

Forthcoming Meeting (please put this date in your calendar now):
June 6: Cabaret at Fuzion (Annual General Meeting also held on this occasion)

Monday, April 4 from 5:45 pm to 9:00 pm
Ramada Inn, 300 Jarvis Street just south of Carlton

Monthly Dinner Meeting:
A Long-Time Survivor Share His Story:
Living with AIDS Today

Michael Hamilton, who has lived with AIDS since 1984, will tell us how he has survived and lived a very full and productive life through all those years. He will talk about the astounding progress in treatment options and the prospects for those living with HIV today. He will also talk about his work with the AIDS Committee of Windsor and his concern about complacency among younger people about the need to practice safe sex.

Note: At this meeting we will be calling for nominations to the Fraternity Board of Directors for election at the May meeting (see "Wanted: A Few Good Men" below).

Cost: Members $30; Guests $40; Students $20 (includes buffet dinner)
RSVP to following email address by Thursday, March 3:

Forthcoming Dinner Meetings (Please put these dates in your calendar now):

May 2: Inside/Out Film Festival presentation
June 6: Cabaret

Report on March Monthly Dinner

Once again the Fraternity has organized a fascinating discussion on an issue not widely aired in the gay community. At our monthly dinner on Monday, March 7, Farzana Hassan, a former president of the secular and liberal Muslim Canadian Congress, spoke about the threat of radical Islam to Muslims and other Canadians, and in particular to the gay community. Participants left much more informed about the challenge of Islamism than when they arrived. They were sobered by what Farzana had to say, but also inspired by the courage shown by her and her colleagues in literally laying their lives on the line for a modern and liberated approach to Islam.

As if to dramatize the seriousness of that challenge, liberal Muslim author and broadcaster Tarek Fatah late last week received a threatening twitter saying, "I know where you live and where your office is." The threat condemned Tarak because he "supports homosexuality." Both Tarek and Farzana have received similar threats in the past. According to press reports, the 16-year-old girl who made the latest threat will not be charged. That a Muslim officer was parachuted in to handle the case makes for troubling optics.

45% Off Four-Course Dinner!

5th ElementT Restaurant

506 Queen Street West (about 4 blocks west of Spadina)

Friday, March 18 at 7:30 p.m.

After immense demand from longtime customers, 5^th ElementT Restaurant (http://www.5thelementt.com/) has recently reopened with its famous fusion Indo-American cuisine. Owner Vijay’s dishes are a perfect blend of texture and taste borrowing from culinary traditions of the East and West. Below is the tasting menu from which each diner can select a superb four-course dinner (regular $39.95) for the very low price of $21.97 plus tax. No advance payment required, but please RSVP so we can reserve appropriate table space.

1. Amuse

Mushroom and Cilantro Bisque
Garlic Naan Bread Toast

2. Appetizers (choice of one)

Rack of Lamb Creamy Potato Salad | Lamb Jus
Bombay Calamari Fritters Tzatziki | Tender Greens
Masala Fried Basa Fillet Chipotle Sauce | Mint Chutney
Julianne of Apple and Pear Salad Feta Cheese| Masala Dressing
Puffed Rice and Potato Chaat Yogurt Mint Chutney |Tamarind Chutney
Vegetable Samosa Melt Mozzarella Cheese | Basil Tomato Sauce

3. Main Course (choice of one)

Coriander Crusted Tilapia Bengali Curry Sauce | Basmati Pilaf Rice
Tandoori Chicken Supreme Creamy Butter Chicken Sauce |Basmati Pilaf Rice
Braised Lamb Shank Garam Masala Infused Tomato Lamb Sauce | Basmati Pilaf Rice
AAA Goan Porter Steak 8 oz Vindaloo Sauce/Fries
Frenched Veal Chop Curried Veal Glaze | Basmati Pilaf Rice
Paneer (Curd Cheese) Makhani Chana Masala | Basmati Pilaf Rice

4. Desserts (choice of one)

Crepe Stuffed with Melon and Passion Fruit Sorbet
Pistachio Kulfi with Rose Gulkand
Blueberry Cheese Tart

RSVP by NOON Friday, March 18, to:

Monday, March 7 from 5:45 pm to 9:00 pm
Ramada Inn, 300 Jarvis Street just south of Carlton

Author, Women's Rights Activist and Musician Farzana Hassan

Monthly Dinner Meeting:
Muslims & the Gay Community

Note: Tarek Fatah recently underwent emergency surgery for a serious medical condition and is unable to speak to The Fraternity on March 7. Not wanting to let us down, however, he has asked Farzana Hassan to speak in his stead. Farzana is a former president of the Muslim Canadian Congress, the organization founded by Tarek, and shares his progressive views. We are indeed fortunate that Farzana, an effective spokeswoman for a modern vision of Islam, has agreed to speak to us on very short notice. She has appeared frequently in the media in Canada, the United States and Europe. Like Tarek, she does not pull her punches in challenging religious intransigence as well as political correctness. We welcome Farzana and wish Tarek all the best for a full recovery.

The Muslim Canadian Congress provides a voice for those Muslims who advocate for the equality of men and women, separation of state and religion, freedom of speech and other liberal values. The grass roots organization supports gay rights and same sex marriage. Former MCC president Farzana Hassan will take on such topics as: Islamism as the enemy of Muslims and other Canadians; religious hate-mongering against Jews and the gay community; when tolerance becomes dangerous; and finding common ground between the gay community and truly progressive Muslims. See you there!

(Note: We are inviting members of Kulanu, the Lesbian and Gay Jewish group in Toronto, to join us for this occasion. Both men and women from Kulanu will be welcome at this meeting. Depending on the topic, The Fraternity may from time to time invite other gay organizations to join us for future meetings.)

Cost: Members $30; Guests $40; Students $20 (includes buffet dinner)
RSVP to following email address by Thursday, March 3:

Forthcoming Dinner Meetings (Please put these dates in your calendar now):

April 4: Michael Hamilton, AIDS survivor since 1984, talks about living with HIV and risk of complacency about infection in younger generation

May 2: Inside/Out Film Festival presentation

June 6: Cabaret

Monday, February 7 from 5:45 pm to 9:00 pm
Ramada Inn, 300 Jarvis Street just south of Carlton

Monthly Dinner Meeting:
The Ugly, the Beautiful, the Affordable:
A pragmatic architect talks about housing and urban design

If you’re passionate about preservation of Toronto’s heritage buildings or just want to find a home that fits your lifestyle, you won’t want to miss what prominent architect Michael McClelland has to say. Recognized for his outstanding contribution to the built environment, Michael will share his insights on such issues as: why an “ugly” building may in fact be a dream home; gentrification of poor neighbourhoods; Heritage Conservation Districts: why you might—or might not—want to live in one. Michael is a highly effective proponent of preserving our architectural heritage while not trying to turn a living city into a museum.

Cost: Members $30; Guests $40; Students $20 (includes buffet dinner)
RSVP to following email address by Thursday, February 3:

Berkeley Street Theatre Upstairs, 26 Berkeley Street
Friday, January 14, 2011 at 8 pm
Registration deadline January 7th
Optional pre-theatre dinner at 5:30 pm

Join us at the Tony Award-winning Musical Parade
Parade

In 1913, Leo Frank, a Brooklyn-born Jew living in Georgia, is accused of murdering 13-year-old Mary Phagan, a factory worker under his employ. Considered one of the most sensational trials of the early 20th century, the Frank case seemed to press every hot-button issue of the time: North vs. South, black vs. white, Jew vs. Christian, industrial vs. agrarian. Already guilty in the eyes of everyone around him, a sensationalist publisher and a janitor’s false testimony seal Leo’s fate. His only defenders are a governor with a conscience and his assimilated Southern wife, who finds the strength and love to become his greatest champion. Parade is both a powerful story and a soaring musical experience—a show that reaches for the stars and shines just as bright. Winner of 2 Tony Awards and 6 Drama Desk Awards.

Special Group Rate: $26 per ticket. As we require payment in advance for this event, please register and follow the instructions there for getting your cheque to us by January 7, at the following email:

Do not mail cheques to the Fraternity PO Box, use the address in the Auto Reply that you will receive through the above link. If you do not receive an Auto Reply or if you have any other questions, please email:

Note: Some of us are getting together for a pre-theatre dinner at 5:30 pm at the Romagna Mia Ristorante at 106 Front Street East between Jarvis and George streets. You are warmly welcome to join us. The restaurant offers great Northern Italian food with a range of courses to suit every budget. After dinner we will stroll over to the Berkeley Street Theatre Upstairs to arrive in time to get a good seat. (Seats are not numbered; it’s first come, first served.)

Monday, January 10, 5:45 pm to 9:00 pm

The Ramada Hotel, 300 Jarvis Street (south of Carlton)

Monthly Dinner Meeting:
A leading civil rights lawyer speaks out:
Why the battle for gay rights is far from over

It ain’t over ’til it’s over, said Yogi Berra. And even then it ain’t over. That’s certainly true of the battle for gay rights, according to R. Douglas Elliott, long-time member and friend of The Fraternity and articulate advocate for fairness and equality. Doug has played a key role in such landmark achievements as state recognition of same sex marriage in Canada. He will talk about huge problems that many in our community still face, including gay youth and seniors, who desperately need our political support. Join us for a very pleasant evening, and find out why we still can’t afford to be complacent.

Cost: Members $30; Guests $40; Students $20 (includes buffet dinner)
RSVP to following email address by Thursday, January 6

Forthcoming Dinner Meetings:
February 7: Michael McClelland, Architect, Preservation of Historical Buildings in Toronto
March 7: Tarek Fatah, Muslim advocate for gay rights and liberal values

The Arts and Letters Club, 14 Elm Street (two blocks north of Dundas)
Saturday, December 11, from 6 pm to midnight
Registration deadline – December 3

The Fraternity’s Annual Holiday Party
Winter Magic

You and your partner or friends are invited to join us for an evening of winter magic – dining, musical entertainment, and even romance. Join us for cocktails at the cash bar between six o’clock and seven while Ken Lindsay from Fuzion plays piano in the lounge. At 7 p.m., dine on a superb three-course dinner. Then sit back and enjoy terrific musical performances and finish the evening with a fabulous cabaret.

All this is yours for just $65 (same price for members and guests). As we require payment in advance for this event, please register at the following email and follow the instructions there for getting your cheque to us by December 3:

Notes: Tickets are not available at the door. Do not mail cheques to the Fraternity PO Box, use the address in the Winter Magic link. Email questions to:

Saturday, November 13 from 7:30 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.
Near Church and Bloor

Brighten Up November:
Autumn House Party

Join your Fraternity friends and their guests at the spectacular party room atop a member’s condo building. The location is on the northern border of the Village so after the party you’re sure to have company if you promenade down Church Street. The club provides snacks and soft drinks; you're welcome to bring alcohol if you wish but remember, you’re only welcome to drink the alcohol you bring with you.

Cost: No cost. Your membership fees are used to support our seasonal house parties.
Registration Deadline: Thursday, November 11. This is a firm deadline; we are not able to accept late registrations for this party. To be admitted to this party, your name must be on the list we give to building security. So please make sure that first and last names are in the email you send us. Same for your guests – and why not bring a guest with you? It’s a great way to introduce friends to our club.

To register, RSVP to:

Monday, November 1, 5:45 pm to 9:00 pm

The Ramada Hotel, 300 Jarvis Street (south of Carlton)

Monthly Dinner Meeting:
An Outstanding Leader -- Glen Murray, MPP for Toronto Centre and Minister of Research & Innovation

The Fraternity is thrilled to welcome as our next speaker, Glen Murray, who has done great things for the gay and general communities and, we are sure, will continue to make his mark as a Cabinet Minister at Queen’s Park. Glen was the first openly gay mayor of a large North American City (Winnipeg, 1998-2004), was a founding member of the Canadian AIDS Society, chaired the National Round Table on the Environment and the Economy, and was appointed President and CEO of the Canadian Urban Institute in 2007. He was a member of the Toronto Gay Patrol in 1983 and Co-Chair of Canadians for Equal Marriage. Glen will join us for dinner exactly one week after the City of Toronto elections and will have much to say about issues facing the city in general and the gay community in particular.

Cost: Members $30, Guests $40 (includes buffet dinner)
RSVP by Thursday, Oct 28 to:

Monday, October 4, 5:45 pm to 9:00 pm
The Ramada Hotel, 300 Jarvis Street (south of Carlton)
Monthly Dinner Meeting:
Addiction and Mental Health in the Gay Community

Gay people today have opportunities to lead open, healthy and productive lives that our counterparts in past generations could only dream of. But all is not well in our community: the prevalence of addiction and mental health problems is often three times higher among gays and other sexual minorities than in the general population. Dr. Jim Cullen of the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) will speak about these differences and highlight new approaches to treatment. In particular, he will talk about emerging evidence that is dramatically changing how health professionals think about addiction. Dr. Cullen is head of Rainbow Services of CAMH, an innovative addictions and concurrent disorder treatment service specifically designed for our community. Come for an eye-opening presentation and lively Q&A.

Members please note: The price for dinner goes up to $30 in November. One more reason to attend the October meeting at the current low price!

Cost: Members $25, Guests $40 (includes buffet dinner)
RSVP by Thursday, September 30 to:

Monday, September 13, 5:45 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
The Ramada Hotel, 300 Jarvis Street (south of Carlton)

Monthly Dinner Meeting

The Gay Bath House Then and Now

We start off the fall season with some lighter fare: a look at the history of the gay bathhouse, here and in Europe. In Toronto, the bath house has been a part of the gay scene for decades and, in 1981, the infamous bath raids jolted the community into political action. No one is better qualified to talk about these perennial establishments than Rolyn Chambers, Director of Operations at St. Marc Spa and social scene columnist at Fab Magazine.

Cost: Members $25, Guests $40 (includes buffet dinner)
RSVP by Thursday, September 9 to:

7th Annual Fraternity Beach Picnic
Sunday, July 25, from 11:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

In the Heart of the Village
Pride Weekend House Party
Saturday, July 3, from 8 to 11 pm

You are invited to our annual Pride Party. This event is open to members and guests at no charge. Non-alcoholic beverages and snacks will be supplied by the club. Please note: if you want to drink alcohol, you must bring your own. No fair helping yourself to others' drinks. Volunteers will be needed to setup before and clean up after this event and are asked to indicate VOLUNTEER when they RSVP to attend. RSVP by July 1 and we’ll send you directions to the party:

Monday, June 7 from 5:45 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Fuzion Restaurant, 580 Church Street (north of Wellesley)

Monthly Dinner Meeting

Cabaret at Fuzion Restaurant

For The Fraternity's final meeting of the spring season, we depart from our usual format and move to Fuzion Restaurant to bring you an evening with pianist Ken Lindsay and Friends. Join us for great piano music, favourite songs and fantastic food.

Menu

Red Pepper Marinated Organic Chicken

Sweet Miso and Wasabi Glazed Tofu Steak

Mixed Leaves and a Composition of vegtables, fruits, grains, and light

Tahini Garlic Cream Sauce

Meli-Melo Seasonal vegtables with grilled Shitake mushrooms

Roasted Potatoes with green olives

Parmesan Grilled Asparagus

Chef’s selection of breads and spreads

Chef’s selection of cookies and squares

Cost: Members $25; Non-members $40; Student members $20
DEADLINE FOR RSVP: Thursday, June 3
RSVP:

Saturday, May 29, 9:30 p.m.,
Isabel Bader Theatre, 93 Charles Street West (south/east of University and Bloor, Victoria College, U of T Campus).
Museum Subway.

CANADIAN PREMIERE
Fraternity Sponsored Movie at the Inside Out Film Festival
Is it Just Me?

Blaine is a sweet but average looking young gay man looking for love in West Holllywood. He stumbles upon what may be his perfect match in an online chat room: Xander, a humble yet hunky country charmer who has just moved to Los Angeles. After their virtual chemistry culminates in some hot and heavy phone sex, the pair make a date to meet in person. The only hitch is that Blaine's been chatting with his new online boyfriend using his roommate Cameron's profile. Cameron is a buff go-go dancer and he's the guy Xander is expecting to meet. See this heartwarming date movie to learn how it all works out. Directed by J.C. Calciano.

Also on Saturday, May 29 at the Isabel Bader Theatre (4:45 p.m.):
Inside Out's Legacy Video Project

This is a special multigenerational edition of the Queer Youth Digital Video Project. Three senior and four young artists, all new to the world of video and filmmaking, present short pieces that both challenge and touch us. Program includes Fraternity member Jim Knoop's Mr. Right, a seven-minute video highlighting a 20-year romance, spanning the '70s, '80s and '90s.

Monday, May 3
Monthly Dinner Meeting:
Inside/Out Film Festival Preview

Once again the Fraternity presents a preview of Inside Out's program of exciting new films -- erotic, comic, dramatic -- all of them telling gay stories. This year marks the 20th Anniversary of Inside/Out’s acclaimed international film festival.

Meeting details:

Reception: 5:45, Seated Dinner: 6:15pm, Meeting: 7-9pm approx.
Location: The Ramada Inn, 300 Jarvis Street (between Gerrard & Carlton)
Cost: Members $25; Non-members $40; Students $20
Dinner included. Everyone welcome.
To facilitate our efficient planning of this event, please reserve your place as soon as possible: RSVP by Thursday before meeting to email address below. (Just log into your usual email system (Hotmail, AOL, etc.) and type the email address shown and send the email.)

Monday, Apr 5
Monthly Dinner Meeting:
I'm Offended: Free Speech, Hate Speech & The Gay Community

For gay people and other minorities, free speech has been the main tool for social change. Today, some people and institutions want to suppress the speech of others for our protection. Where does freedom of expression end and incitement of violence begin? Join us for a lively and enlightening evening as writer Marcus McCann and lawyer Doug Elliott debate the resolution: Canada's hate speech laws are a justifiable limit on free speech. And, yes, there'll be lots of time for audience participation.

Meeting details:

Reception: 5:45, Seated Dinner: 6:15pm, Meeting: 7-9pm approx.
Location: The Ramada Inn, 300 Jarvis Street (between Gerrard & Carlton)
Cost: Members $25; Non-members $40; Students $20
Dinner included. Everyone welcome.
To facilitate our efficient planning of this event, please reserve your place as soon as possible: RSVP by Thursday before meeting to email address below. (Just log into your usual email system (Hotmail, AOL, etc.) and type the email address shown and send the email.)

Saturday, Mar 27
Brunch in the Gladstone Café at 10:45 a.m.
Gladstone Hotel, 1214 Queen Street West at Gladstone
Brunch and Art in West Queen West

First photography exhibit at the Gladstone, 3rd floor, around noon
Join Fraternity members for a leisurely brunch at the Gladstone Hotel in their glorious Victorian café, then visit two fantastic photography exhibitions nearby. Chef Marc Breton and his staff offer a menu of classic Canadian favourites and tempting daily specials with a focus on local, fair trade, and organic ingredients.

Building Storeys, 3rd Floor, Gladstone Hotel
A collaborative effort by Heritage Toronto and members of the photography groups the Shadow Collective and DK Photo, "Building Storeys" is a visual documentation and anecdotal exhibit of our city’s heritage building and sites. By showcasing some of Toronto’s industrial past we hope to change the perception of heritage in our city, by revealing some of the hidden beauty of these sites.

Chinese Dust Bowl, Stephen Bulger Gallery, 1026 Queen Street West
Benoit Aquin's photographs explore the impact of this great environmental disaster on the Chinese people and landscape. Sepia and subdued in colour, the images depict a landscape that is normally vibrant and colourful. Aquin states, "My series, the Chinese Dust Bowl, shows just what happens when we mismanage the environment. These issues should not just be seen in the context of one country, they are global issues. They affect us all. And as a global population, we must solve them." He finds beauty in the destruction of the land, while also raising awareness about the environmental state of our world.

Details
Meet Joe Calleja and other Fraternity members at the Gladstone Hotel for brunch at 10:45 or at the first photography exhibit at the Gladstone, 3rd floor, at around noon. Take the Queen Streetcar to Gladstone. If driving, please note that street parking is limited. Please RSVP to email below so we know how many people to expect. The hotel does not take reservations for brunch, but Joe will try to keep the group together if there is a lot of interest in the event.

Ever wonder what makes relationships work when the partners are of much different ages than one another? And, why is it that some men prefer a much older or much younger partner? Everyone has his own opinions on the subject but we’re planning a panel of people who work as relationship counsellors to answer these and other questions about May-December romances. Join us and join the conversation. And while you’re at it, why not bring a friend – someone your age or someone much younger . . . or much older.

OK, it’s two weeks after Valentine’s Day and you’re ready to fall in love all over again. So why not join your Fraternity friends and their guests at the spectacular party room atop a member’s condo building? The location is on the northern border of the Village so after the party you’ll have company if promenade down Church Street. The club provides snacks and soft drinks; you're welcome to bring alcohol if you wish but remember, you’re only welcome to drink the alcohol you bring with you -- no poaching other guys’ wine!
COST: No cost. Your membership fees are used to support our seasonal house parties.

Plan winter getaways and summer adventures. Our panellists are: Henry Wiseberg of Talk of the Town Travel and Robert Sharp of Out Adventures; and George Theo of New Wave Travel. As a special treat, Ken Lindsay will play piano during our cocktail hour.

Join us at Yuk Yuk's Comedy Club on Friday, January 29 at 8pm to see comedian, Trixx. Show will end around 9:30pm. Cost is $11.99 per person for the show. Coffee and desserts can be purchased -- in addition, a la carte. Please respond to Michael at email below by Monday, January 18, 2009.

Monday, Jan 11
Monthly Dinner Meeting:
George Smitherman: His Vision for the City

The Fraternity was proud to host George Smitherman several years ago when he was Ontario's Minister of Health. He is the province's first openly gay MPP and Cabinet Minister. We are delighted to welcome Mr. Smitherman back to The Fraternity to talk about his decision to run for Mayor of Toronto and his ideas for taking on the challenges facing this great city. Expect a dynamic talk and a lively question and answer session.

Saturday, December 12, from 6pm-midnight
The Arts and Letters Club, 14 Elm Street (two blocks north of Dundas)
Registration Deadline: Dec 4
The Fraternity's Annual "Winter Magic" Holiday Party

You and your partner or friends are invited to join us for an evening of winter magic – dining, musical entertainment, and even romance. Join us for cocktails at the cash bar between six o’clock and seven while Ken Lindsay from Statler’s plays piano in the lounge. At 7 p.m., dine on salmon, seasonal vegetables, salad, dessert, tea or coffee. Then sit back and enjoy performances by the terrific vocal group and finish the evening with a fabulous gay cabaret.

All this is yours for the new low price of $50 for members and $60 for guests. As we require payment in advance for this event, your cheque must reach us no later than December 4. You’ll receive details about where to send your cheque when you register at:

Tickets are not available at the door. Do not mail cheques to the Fraternity PO Box, use the address in the Winter Magic link. Email questions to:

Friday, Dec 4
317 Dundas St. West, Toronto
Fraternity Group Special:
King Tut at the AGO

Thirty years after the wonders of King Tut had their celebrated Canadian debut at the Art Gallery of Ontario, an even bigger exhibition, The Golden King and the Great Pharaohs, will soon make its appearance at the AGO. This amazing exhibition features an almost entirely different selection of treasures and more than twice the number of artifacts displayed in 1979. Included are 130 remarkable pieces from temples and the tomb of King Tut and other royal tombs, drawn from 2,000 years of ancient Egyptian history. This spectacular collection features a 10-foot statue of King Tut, the largest image of the young pharaoh ever unearthed. More details at http://www.ago.net. This group viewing is available to Fraternity members only for $25.00 per person, including tax (non-members are welcome to join us at the regular public price of $28.50). Participants have the option of meeting others in the group for a pre-tour meal at a nearby Chinese restaurant. Public parking available nearby. RSVP by November 9 to:

Saturday, November 21, brunch at 11:00 am; walking tour; from noon to 2:30 pm
Gladstone Hotel, 1214 Queen St West at Queen Street and Gladstone Avenue
(some street parking or take the Queen West street car)
Brunch and Queen West Walking Tour

Join Fraternity Past President, Jim Gregory, and other Fraternity friends for brunch at the historic Gladstone Hotel built in 1889. Then, hook up with cultural concierge, Betty Ann Jordan, as she leads the ultimate insider’s tour of West Queen West. Discover art, architecture, and neighbourhood gems only a knowledgeable local could show you. Along the way, Betty Ann will introduce you to gallerists, artists, and local characters. Whether you frequent Queen West regularly or it’s your first time visiting you’ll enjoy this one-of-a-kind tour with equal parts art lesson, gossip session and peek inside Toronto’s Art and Design district. Brunch will run you about $15. The walking tour is $15 for singles; $25 for couples. So why not bring a friend? If you’re coming for brunch, let Jim know so he can reserve a spot for you. Questions? Email Jim at:

Monday, Nov 2
Monthly Dinner Meeting:
Diversity at the Bank: What It Is, and Isn't

For Canada's most progressive enterprises, diversity is part of doing business. Tim Thompson, a Senior Vice President at TD Bank, will talk about his organization's goals for including LGBT and allied employees and customers. The bank's diversity activities are led by a committee of senior executives, and its Pride Network includes over 1,000 employees across Canada. For the bank, diversity is all about attracting and retaining the best talent available and having access to the most diverse and creative thinking possible. It is not about reducing performance standards or being politically correct. Come and hear how opportunities are opening up for our community - in the workplace and in the marketplace.

Saturday, Oct 24, 7:30pm - 11:30pm
Near Church & Bloor
October House Party:
Pre-Halloween Party

Join your Fraternity friends and their guests at the spectacular party room atop a member’s condo building. This isn’t a costume party (though you can wear a costume if you like) but it’s sure to be lots of fun. The location is on the northern border of the Village so after the party you’ll have company if you sally forth along Church Street. The club provides snacks and soft drinks; you're welcome to bring alcohol if you wish but remember, you’re only welcome to drink the alcohol you bring with you, no poaching other guys’ wine!
COST: No cost. Your membership fees are used to support our seasonal house parties.

Registration Deadline Thursday, October 22. This is a firm deadline; we are not able to accept late registrations for this party. To be admitted to this party, your name must be on the list we give to building security. So please make sure that first and last names are in the email you send us. Same for your guests – and why not bring a guest with you? It’s a great way to introduce friends to our club.

CARP, Canada’s largest association for the 45-plus, launched its Pink Chapter this past June. Gabriel Huston, chair of the non-profit organization’s new chapter, will talk about issues facing gay zoomers, and CARP’s evolving virtual community for those seeking gay-friendly retirement homes and other resources. You won’t want to miss this practical and timely discussion. Growing old does not have to mean going back into the closet!

Meeting details:

Monday, Sept 14
Monthly Dinner Meeting:
Gay Philanthropy: Where Those Dollars Go

We’ve come a long, long way since the Lesbian & Gay Community Appeal of Toronto was founded by a small group of visionaries in 1980. Today, Toronto boasts one of the strongest, most vibrant gay communities on the planet. Philip Wong will explain how we got from there to here and the vital role that gay philanthropy played. As executive director of the Community One Foundation (formerly the Lesbian & Gay Community Appeal Foundation), Philip can answer such questions as: Who gets help from the Foundation? How do people and projects qualify for assistance? How does the Foundation measure success? How are the needs changing? What are the opportunities for voluntarism? So come join us for an enlightening and fascinating conversation. Be sure to arrive in time for the pre-dinner reception to reconnect with old friends and maybe make some new ones.

Meeting details:

Take a jaunt east and spend a lazy Sunday afternoon in and around the pool in a beautiful setting near the Bluffs. We’ll be partying in the huge back garden of a lovely home, easily accessible by car or TTC. As an added treat, the house is just a short walk from the beach. There’ll be lots of great food and non-alcoholic beverages. If you want to drink alcohol you must bring your own. This event is FREE for members to welcome our new Pride Day members in style, as well as thank all our members for their support this year. Non-members are welcome for a small $5 fee to help cover costs.

Sunday, July 19, 11:30am to 4pm
~~7th Annual Fraternity Beach BBQ~~
CANCELLED DUE TO STRIKE

Due to the civic strike, which means no public ferry service to the islands, we have decided to cancel the Hanlan's Point picnic on July 19, and instead have a pool party on July 26th.

You are invited to our Pride Party. This event is open to members and guests at no charge. Non-alcoholic beverages and snacks will be supplied by the club. Please note: if you want to drink alcohol, you must bring your own. No fair helping yourself to others' drinks. Volunteers will be needed to setup before and clean up after this event and are asked to indicate VOLUNTEER when they RSVP to attend. RSVP by June 24 at:

Monday, June 1
Monthly Dinner Meeting:
Performers from The Toronto Fringe Festival

Saturday, May 9, 7:30-11:00pm
Near Church & Bloor
Spring House Party

Join your Fraternity friends and their guests at the spectacular party room atop a member’s condo building. The location is on the northern border of the Village so after the party you’re sure to have company if you promenade down Church Street. The club provides snacks and soft drinks; you're welcome to bring alcohol if you wish but remember, you’re only welcome to drink the alcohol you bring with you.

COST: No cost. Your membership fees are used to support our seasonal house parties.

REGISTRATION DEADLINE: Thursday, May 7. This is a firm deadline; we are not able to accept late registrations for this party. To be admitted to this party, your name must be on the list we give to building security. So please make sure that first and last names are in the email you send us. Same for your guests – and why not bring a guest with you? It’s a great way to introduce friends to our club.

Our annual Inside/Out dinner meeting is always one of our best. It’s a great way to learn about this year’s Festival. Scott often brings a clip or two from movies he’ll be showing at the Festival. This is also the club’s Annual General Meeting so come on out and be part of the quorum we need to conduct a little business.

Guest Speaker: Scott Ferguson, Executive Director of the Festival
PLEASE NOTE WE’LL BE IN THE MAIN FLOOR DINING ROOM JUST OFF THE LOBBY

Sunday, April 26, at Brunch at noon, Gardens tour at 2pm
At a member's home in the Cabbagetown area
Potluck Brunch & Tour of Allen Gardens

Come on out for a potluck brunch at the lovely downtown home of Fraternity President, Michael Lloyd. After brunch, make the short walk over to Allen Gardens where Fraternity member, Chris Freel, will lead our group on a tour of the gardens. For brunch, bring a favourite dish – an appetizer, entrée or dessert. The club will provide soft drinks. There is no charge for this event; just bring food for brunch. To register and receive directions, email:

Glen Dixon of "Take This House and Sell It" on Interior Design and Decoration

Meeting details:

Sunday, April 5, 12:30 for brunch; about 2pm at the AGO
317 Dundas St West
Sunday Brunch & An Afternoon at the AGO

The Art Gallery of Ontario has just re-opened after a $276 million expansion project designed by world-renowned architect Frank Gehry. Now home to 73,160 works of breathtaking art, the transformed AGO is a preeminent art museum and an international cultural destination. If we have a group of 20 or more, you save 10% off individual admissions. After brunch at a Queen Street pub, we’ll saunter up to the gallery for leisurely exploration of its many wonders. We’ll send you details about the pub but please register now at:

Saturday, March 28, 3:30pm
Scotiabank Theatre Toronto (corner of Richmond and John Streets)
Kabuki Theatre in High-Definition Film:
The Sentimental Plasterer

Join us for this Canadian premier of a performance recorded live at Shimbashi Embujo Theatre in Tokyo. Chobei, a skillful plasterer, blithely gambles his family into poverty. To feed the family, his daughter Ohisa turns to prostitution. Touched by Ohisa's selfless love for her parents, a madam arranges a loan for Chobei. On the way home, Chobei saves a young man who, having lost a large sum, is about to commit suicide. But who will believe this story? Surely Chobei has gambled away the family's last chance. Buy tickets online at www.cineplex.com and for more information, call the Japan Foundation at 416-966-1600 x229. Look for our group in the lobby before the show and join us for drinks afterwards.

Friday, March 13, 8-10pm
2nd floor, west side of Church at Dundonald
Bar Night at Fuzion

Join your Fraternity friends for a completely informal evening of conversation in the lovely second floor bar at Fuzion. This is a great opportunity to renew acquaintances and make new friends. Everyone is welcome so why not bring some of your friends along with you. There’s no charge for this event and the only cost is for drinks or snacks you order. No need to register for this but if you want more information, email Jim at:

Monday, March 2
Monthly Dinner Meeting:
Gay Activism and Gay Life in the 1960s

We're delighted to announce that our speaker in March will be John Alan Lee - author, professor, activist. This is not some promenade down memory lane. Instead, it's an opportunity to hear and meet one of the great leaders of the gay rights movement in Canada. In addition to being a member and friend of The Fraternity, John Lee is one of the great heroes of our community. Won't you join us for this terrific program? And, while you're signing up, why not plan to bring a friend?

Meeting details:

Saturday, February 21, 2pm
Toronto Centre for the Arts at North York City Centre
Jersey Boys:
The Story of Frankie Valli & the Four Seasons

Come see the Tony award winning smash-hit musical! It’s the rags-to-riches tale of four blue-collar kids working their way up from the streets of Newark to the heights of stardom. Fraternity members will enjoy a 20% saving on tickets, passes to the VIP lounge with private (cash) bar before the show and during intermission, and entry into a draw for a JERSEY BOYS Prize Pack. Please book early to avoid disappointment as Jersey Boys has been playing to packed houses. To book your tickets, email fit@dancapproductions.com with FRATERNITY SOCIAL in the subject line, or call Kevin at 416-644-3666 x720.

Cupid may work his magic for you at The Fraternity's annual Valentine's Party! Our host, Jim Knoop, opens his home for this evening of friendship and romance. The evening is BYOB, with non-alcoholic refreshments and munchies to be served. To RSVP or get more information, please email:

Monday, February 2
Monthly Dinner Meeting:
How to have a great evening with a glass of whiskey!

Bet most of you never knew that a glass of single malt whiskey can be like finding the right date for an evening out. Our speakers are going to open your mind up to the differences whiskey has between ages, cast strength and where they come from. You will learn how some whiskeys can make an evening very special or how they may be totally inappropriate for other occasions. This may even get some of our dedicated wine drinkers to explore a whole new taste experience. Come to our meeting and see if you can add another dimension to your social evenings!

Meeting details:

In January, we welcome Patricia Lovett-Reid of TD/Canada Trust speaking on the current economic crisis and how to survive it. Ms Lovett-Reid will offer her insight into the economy and suggest practical ways of responding to the economic downturn. She is an extraordinary speaker on financial topics so you won’t want to miss this one.

Meeting details:

Saturday, December 13, 6pm-midnight
The Arts and Letters Club, 14 Elm Street (two blocks north of Dundas)
Registration Deadline: Dec 5
Fraternity "Winter Magic" Holiday Party

You and your partner or friends are invited to join us for an evening of winter magic – dining, dancing, musical entertainment, and maybe romance. Join us for cocktails at the cash bar between six o’clock and seven while Ken Lindsay from Statler’s plays piano in the lounge. At 7 p.m., dine on salmon, seasonal vegetables, salad, dessert, tea or coffee. Then sit back and enjoy a performance by the gay octet, 8 Misbehavin’. Finish the evening dancing to DJ Mike Timson’s playlist.

For this event, we require payment in advance. Tickets reserved after November 23 are $70 for members and $75 for guests. Your cheque must reach Jim Gregory no later than December 5. You’ll receive details about where to send your cheque when you register at:

Tickets are not available at the door. Do not mail cheques to the Fraternity PO Box. Please note that your membership fees provide a subsidy for the Holiday Party. Send questions about this event to:

Fraternity member Greg Barber will host an informal white wine tasting in his east end Toronto condo. The event will consist of “blind tasting” (i.e. the wine label will be covered during tasting in order to keep the region, age and price range unknown). Those attending are asked to bring one bottle of their favourite white wine and an appetizer. Attendance will be limited to ten people. To register:

Monday, Nov 3
Monthly Dinner Meeting:
Gay Travel: Planning Your Winter Getaways
and Summer Adventures

As a special treat, Frat boy, Ken Lindsay, who performs at Statler's every Thursday, will play piano during our cocktail hour.

PLEASE NOTE: we will be in the ground floor restaurant off the Main Lobby for this meeting.

Join your Fraternity friends and their guests at the spectacular party room atop a member’s condo building. This isn’t a costume party (You can wear a costume if you like.) but it’s sure to be lots of fun. The location is on the northern border of the Village so after the party you’ll have company if you sally forth along Church Street. The club provides snacks and soft drinks; you're welcome to bring alcohol if you wish but remember, you’re only welcome to drink the alcohol you bring with you, no poaching other guys’ wine!

The registration deadline is Thursday, October 23. This is a firm deadline; we are not able to accept late registrations for this party. To be admitted to this party, your name must be on the list we give to building security. So please make sure that first and last names are in the email you send us. Same for your guests – and why not bring a guest with you? It’s a great way to introduce friends to our club.

Thursday, Oct 16, Cocktails at 6pm, Dinner at 7:30pm
Statler's on Church between Wellesley & Maitland
Cocktails and Dinner

Join us for drinks at Statler’s between 6 and 7:30, then come along for dinner at one of the many restaurants on Church Street. We may choose the restaurant once our group is assembled. This is a great way to make new friends in a very relaxed setting. And why not bring a friend along with you to meet other Fraternity members? This is completely informal but, if you plan to attend, send an email to the address below so that we have an idea of numbers:

Monday, Oct 6
Monthly Dinner Meeting:
Keys to the Bedroom & the Boardroom:
The Code of Colours & Personality

Long-time Fraternity member, Fred Leafgren, will show us how understanding personality profiles leads to business and social success. Is there a distinctive gay personality? Do we conduct business in a unique way? How can understanding personality lead to greater social success? Fred will answer these and other questions so this meeting is not to be missed.

Meeting details:

Saturday, Sept 20, 8pm-11pm
New Members Party

Don't miss our annual New Members House Party. This party is the perfect chance to welcome new members to the club, renew acquaintances with your friends and make some new friends. Of course, everyone's welcome, and you're encouraged to bring guests. The party will be at a Fraternity member’s home in Leaside. Please respond as early as possible, so we can plan refreshments properly. The club provides snacks and soft drinks; you're welcome to bring alcohol if you wish.

Thursday, Sept 18, between 7:30-9pm
Statler's on Church between Wellesley & Maitland
Cocktail Reception

Statler’s invites Fraternity members and their guests to attend a private party in their second floor lounge. Come for the first show with Ken Lindsay and Michael Killinger from 6:00 to 7:30; then join us for complimentary cocktails and finger food. Your name (and your guests’ names) must be on the guest list so please register now at email below. After the party, we’ll take in the second show of the evening on the ground floor. Please note that this event is open only to Fraternity members and their guests.

Please register for this event by Tuesday, Sept 16.

Monday, Sept 8
Monthly Dinner Meeting:
The Fabulous Faithful:
Toronto's LGBT Faith Communities

Toronto’s LGBT population has created their own faith spaces and communities where that are embraced, and not just tolerated. Our three panelists will share their stories and describe what led them to create positive spaces that bring together God and gays.

Panel: