The address of 10242 106th Street in Edmonton has been a gay space since 1969. First known as “Club 70” and then “The Cha Cha Club,” from 1979 until just recently it was known as “Boots and Saddles.” Now shortened to simply “Boots,” the bar has been owned by Jim Schafer and his business partner for 12 years. On November 25th Boots will be celebrating its 28th Anniversary of operation.
”On the Saturday we are having a Drag show put on by Tootsinelda Woofenpickle and I. Declare, two of the hottest drag queens in Edmonton. We are hoping to have Louise here singing on the Friday night. It’s going to be customer appreciation week.”
Schafer is also owner of the bar right next door, The Garage, whose famous Garage Burgers have won multiple awards. The community is an important aspect of both businesses.
”We have won awards in several publications for years. The AMA magazine recognized our hamburgers as comparative to Peters in Calgary. The Restaurant caters to all walks of life. We try and do a lot of events for the gay community for business meetings, catering, court functions, fetish functions and lesbian functions. We’ve done it all.” On the Boots side there have been numerous events. “We’ve done [fundraiser] events for the Court, Cancer, Alzheimer’s, AIDS, the Centre of Hope, and the SPCA.”
The 6000 square foot space sports artwork on the walls including numerous pieces from Calgary’s own Jarret Quinn, but over all comes across as a venue with a western theme. They draw from all aspects of the community - a mixture of gay and lesbian, straight, fetish, bears, cubs, young and old, male and female – and they offer a laid-back rumpus room atmosphere. The white stucco walls exude a relaxing vibe in the main room, while the other side of the bar has a room with seating in front of a stage for drag shows. In addition Boots offers a big-screen TV, pool tables and darts to keep their clientele entertained. Schafer spends a lot of time running both businesses, but is appreciative to get away from them at the end of the day.
“…You have to keep track of your customers and visitors. The restaurant is a lot of work; staffing and ordering takes up a lot of time. I am here a lot, when I am done I go home and enjoy my peace and quiet.”
Shafer invites everyone to come out and enjoy their 28th Anniversary party on the 25th of this month.
Boots
10242 - 106 St
Edmonton, AB
(780) 423-5014
