by James Whitely - SGN Staff Writer

Knights of Malta
Beggars Feast
January 23
Russian Hall

On January 23, members of the Jet Chapter (Seattle's chapter) of the Knights of Malta invited guests to their annual Beggars Feast, held at Russian Hall (704 19th Ave. E.). The charitable event featured a full-course meal consisting of such delicacies as Vatican Meatball Soup, Sir Lance-A-Lot Chicken Breast, and Jester's Delight Cheesecake, as well as a variety of drag performances.

The Beggars Feast started in 1974. This year, the Beggars Feast was attended by about 90 people and featured appearances and performances from the Imperial Court of Seattle's new candidate for emperor, as well as Olympia XXX LaTrina Bidet, Rainier XXIX Arnie Norem, Olympia XXII Morai St. Charles, Rainier XXXVI Bruce Buttler, Mr. Gay Seattle XXXIII Truedance T. Halliwell, and many more.

The Beggars Feast is closely linked to the Imperial Court of Seattle, and is generally held around the candidacy period for the Court's emperor and empress. Traditionally, the candidates were introduced for the first time at the Beggars Feast. Today, however, they are introduced earlier but still remain an important part of the function.

The Beggars Feast generally includes representatives from the Courts of Seattle, Everett and Bellingham, as well as representatives from the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, Abbey of St. Joan, Seattle Men in Leather, and the Vancouver, BC chapter of the Knights of Malta.

"It's been a very successful fundraiser for us over the years, and all the proceeds from the function go to our charity fund," said Fidel Gonzalez, or "Fugi," who has been a member of the Jet Chapter since 1973 and currently serves as the treasurer of the organization.

"Within the past three or four years, we've been able to raise and give out over $8,000 to local charitable organizations in our community," Fugi told SGN. Recently, the Knights have donated to Bat N' Rouge, the Lambert House, and a variety of other nonprofit LGBT-centric organizations.

The Jet Chapter of the Knights of Malta is a nonprofit social charitable club. The chapter was started in 1972. Its purpose is to serve as a community support group and fundraising entity.

For more information, visit www.jetchapterkofm.com.

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