They’re queer, they’re here, let’s get into it! This week Montreal welcomes five finalists for a survival of the fierce and fabulous to crown the “Queer of the Year” contest winner.
Contestants posted their videos and submitted applications starting June 24th, the launch of Tourism Montreal’s “Queer of the Year” contest, celebrating diversity, individuality and pride within the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community. A panel of judges selected five finalists who have been whisked off to Montreal, ready to explore one of the world’s most LGBT-friendly cities. From now through August 14, they will compete in a variety of challenges and activities, all of which will be captured on film and posted online. Website viewers are able to keep up with the action and vote for their favorite contestants at www.queeroftheyearcontest.com.
At the end of the competition, the finalist with the most public votes combined with the most points from the judges will win the ultimate title of QUEER OF THE YEAR and a chance to take part in the Pride parade on August 15 which marks the end of Montreal’s Pride Week celebrations. The winner will also enjoy the Montreal VIP treatment valued at approximately $4,000 CAD, which will include:
• A designer shopping spree with a personal stylist
• Spa pampering package
• A Montreal gourmet dining experience
Who would you choose to be “Queer of the Year?”
Nathan Gilligan from Phoenix, Arizona, USA – age 24
Nathan believes in karma and has a big heart for those who need it. He has a secret desire to play cupid. Not just for his own whims, but to vanquish negative attitudes from others and even help people love themselves.
Travis Mullenix from Los Angeles, California, USA – age 21
When Travis wakes up, the first thing he's thinking about is his art. What art, you ask? Well, Travis is a clothing designer, painter, performance artist and lover of turtles. No seriously, he even built a pond for them. His role models are epic, such as Jean Paul Gaultier, especially his work for the movie Fifth Element.
Corey Vautour from Fredericton, New Brunswick, Canada – age 21
Corey melts at the sound of a violin, piano or that wonderful L-word. His most embarrassing moment, unlike regrettable Facebook photos, was innocent enough: mistaking the paperboy for a burglar in the middle of the night at a friend's cottage. There's always more than meets the eye with Corey.
Blake Spence - Calgary, Alberta, Canada – age 27
Although admittedly a little clumsy, Blake makes up for it with some sexy moves to dance hall music or his latest favorite album by Kelis. When he's not practicing his moves or keeping fit, Blake is busy coordinating the male sexual health program at the Calgary Sexual Health Centre and volunteering in the community.
Sean Horlor - Vancouver, British Colombia, Canada – age 29
Sean's personal ambition both drives and scares him at the same time. His curious nature has helped him to try new things like traveling to China and learning how to cook. If you came to dinner, Sean would tantalize your taste buds with butternut squash halved, baked and stuffed with curried chicken & fresh greens. Sean will love Montreal.
Wish you were here…
Bursting with exciting festivals and fun outdoor activities, Montreal is one of the world’s liveliest summer cities and a hotspot for gays and lesbians in all spheres of life. The city’s “Village” is at the heart of the action. Until Labor Day weekend the entire village (one of the biggest in the world - 15 city blocks along Montreal's main street, Ste-Catherine) becomes a fantastic pedestrian walkway with public art, patios and performances. But gay and lesbian life isn't just in the Village - it extends throughout the entire city. Arrival is easy and you’ll discover hotels at every price point along with tons of free activities to enjoy this summer.
You say package, I say deal!
Tourism Montreal is offering great packages from summer through December, including the LGBT Package with hotel rates starting as low as $121 USD per night. This package also includes special privileges, ranging from over a dozen discount coupons and fantastic freebies at Montreal’s must-visit hotspots! Visit www.tourisme-montreal.org/Offers for a listing of participating hotels, terms, conditions and additional offers.
For more information, prize info, rules or the latest Montreal LGBT news…
• Visit Tourism Montreal’s “Queer of the Year” website: www.queeroftheyearcontest.com
• Become a fan of Montreal “Queer of the Year” on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/QOTYcontest
• Visit Tourism Montreal’s Gay Life blog:
www.tourisme-montreal.org/blog/gay-life/
• Follow Tourism Montreal on Twitter: www.twitter.com/QOTYcontest
