Friday,
March 11, 2005

Volume 33,
Issue 10

Sun, Mar 21, 2010

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Sixteen years and counting...
Sixteen years and counting...Former Emperor Arnie raises some green this St. Patrick’s Day
by Sara Michelle Fetters

For former Imperial Court of Seattle (ISCSORE) Emperor Rainier XXIX Arnie Norem, St. Patrick’s Day is all about the green. Not just the color, but also the cash, and for 16 years he’s been doing all he can think of to raise as much of it as he can for local LGBT charities. “This fundraiser is very special to me,” said Arnie. “As it has evolved over the years, it just becomes nearer and dearer to my heart every single day.”

Arnie hopes this year’s fundraiser, benefiting the ISCSORE College of Monarchs and the Knights of Malta Jet Chapter charities, to be held at the Full Circle Bar and Grill on March 17 will be the best yet. Featuring 20 of Seattle’s and Tacoma’s best drag talent, including newly elected ISCSORE Empress Asia and Emperor Rene, Mark “Mom” Finley, reigning Tacoma Emperor Ken and former Miss Gay Seattle Aleksa Manila, the show should be a good one. At least, that’s what Arnie is hoping.

“This is a very personal event, and it’s important to me that everyone has a [great] time and really enjoys themselves,” he said. To that end, there is no cover and people are only expected to contribute what they can, all monies for the event generated through raffles, auction items and the performer’s tips. Auction and raffle items for this year’s show include original art work by local artist Ken Felks, a brand new color TV and gift certificate and entertainment packages from The Cuff, The Full Circle, The Elite and others. “What’s great about [my show],” said Arnie “is that everyone who spends $10 on a raffle ticket can expect to win something. We’ve had so many wonderful items donated [this year] that this is a promise I can pretty much guarantee.”

The former ISCSORE Emperor started his annual tradition of raising money on St. Patrick’s Day 16 years a go in Tacoma. Dressed as a leprechaun he would guest bartend at area establishments and sell homemade cookies with the name of patrons frosted upon them. “Over the years, we’ve raised money for SASG, Three Cedars, Bailey Boushay House, The Imperial Courts of Seattle and Tacoma, The Knights of Malta and so many others I just can’t name them all,” said Arnie. “In the broad scope of things, I think we all enjoy helping others and that’s exactly what my event is all about. I have always strived to make sure everyone, no matter who they are, is accepted and included, and I hope to see them all at the show next Thursday. I know they’ll have a great time.”

Arnie’s Annual St. Patrick’s Day Drag Show and Fundraiser will be held Thursday, March 17, at the Full Circle Bar and Grill on Seattle’s Capitol Hill. The show will start promptly at 8:00 p.m. All money raised will benefit the Imperial Court of Seattle College of Monarchs and Knights of Malta, Jet Chapter, charities.

SEX TALK
Simon Sheppard