Pink Paradigm
Billboard Party
at the Pipeline 4/16/1999
On Friday, April 16, 1999, the Pipeline hosted a benefit show for the Pink Paradigm Gay & Lesbian Visibility Project. It was also the first public viewing of the approximately 40 ideas for the billboards that Pink Paradigm has generated or accepted from the community. The delight of the crowd was palpable in their fascinated perusal and discussion of the varied presentations. Many people cited their favorites or made helpful comments on their donation envelopes. Pink Paradigm encourages your participation and comment and is currently reviewing all concepts for media exposure.
Mistress of Ceremonies Roxie had arranged a splashy show card of drag queens, strippers, singers and performance artists including the perennial favorite Major Trouble, a.k.a. Michael Blankenship. Striding on stage, his fiery visage all bellicose and blustery, he apparently hoped to lecture the audience on tactical cruising. The rowdy crowd would have none of it, and shouted him down with their demands that he present his artillery for their inspection. After doffing coat and cap it seemed his sense of military decorum reasserted itself and prevailed over his delight with the loud urgings. To forestall further disrobing he placated them with a rousing rendition of "Yank My Doodle, It's a Dandy."
Kudos must go the the intrepid Jenn and Kelly who plied the crowd throughout the evening gleaning donations and selling tickets for the prize drawings. If not for their stalwart services the Major would have been pressed into service, and that crowd would have eaten him alive.
By the end of the evening, approximately $300 had been raised and everyone's spirits lifted. One plucky young fellow even modeled the flower arrangement he had won as a hat. A fresh and fun look for spring! Be on the lookout for other Pink Paradigm events. Any performers with ideas for unique, pertinent or just plain fabulous presentations are encouraged to contact Pink Paradigm.
Pink Paradigm wishes to thank Darrell, Roxie and the Pipeline staff for a lovely affair, to thank everyone in the show for their enticing performances (and their tips!), to thank everyone who donated prizes for the drawing, and most of all everyone who contributed money that night. Your cash will make our voices heard!
- Paradigm News Service
