Seven years ago, during FringeMTL, I became fast friends with a few members of the queerlesque troupe GlamGam. That year they produced the immensely successful Greasy at Cafe Cleopatra, and I was witness to the unhinged, choreographed chaos three times. After that run, though, the troupe fell quiet.

Public libraries offer so much more than just books. Depending on your library’s offerings, you could have access to magazines, films, video games, music, audio books, board games, puzzles, toys, and even electronic devices. They organise programs for patrons of all ages, including story times for children, book clubs for teens, movie viewings for adults, and tech workshops for seniors.

On October 10, readers from all over Montreal gathered at Centre Sanaaq for the fifth edition of the Kabir Cultural Centre’s “Garden of Literary Delights.” It was my second time attending the literary panel, and to say I was excited would be an understatement—I left last year’s event buzzing with the excitement of engaging with fresh ideas and adding several new books to my to-read list.

Before I even stepped into Barfly, I was greeted by the crowd spilling out into the streets of St. Laurent. I walk past the vivid, brightly painted fly mural on a weekly basis, and I have to say I was more than a little thrilled to finally peek behind the curtain and enter the iconic bar.

Julie Neff understands pain. Years ago, she found herself in the wreckage of her personal and professional life. She’d just relocated from Spain, her first serious relationship had just fallen apart, and she was facing a very real health crisis…

Folded between fingertips and passed under tables, this silent mode of communication can make a big impact. Zines, small collaged publications packed with message and creativity, are a place for true, grassroots expression.