Mychol Scully-Toronto:  The second annual INSPIRE Awards Summer Gala at Casa Loma is just one week away. The event was first organized last year by founder and president, Antoine Elhashem, as a response to the negative news stories about LGBTQ communities, and presents other stories to tell about individuals and organizations who are making a positive and inspiring contribution to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer communities across the Greater Toronto Area.

The Summer Gala celebrates nominees in four categories: Person of the Year, Youth of the Year, Positive Business of the Year, and Inspiring Community Organization. Nominations are solicited from the public and reviewed by representatives of the nine founding partner organizations.

This year’s theme is HISTORICA, an acknowledgement of the many individuals and organizations who have worked throughout history to build awareness and respect for “the other.” The evening includes a cocktail reception, the Awards presentation itself, several entertaining performances, and a dance party at the Castle, with DJ Craig Dominic.

To support the Gala theme, one of the sponsors, Theatrix Costume House, if offering a 30% discount on costume rentals for the evening. Another sponsor, Gorman’s Formal Wear, is offering a 40% discount on tuxedo rentals for the occasion.

With a ticket price of only $40, this may be one of the best entertainment values of the season as we ramp up to Pride Week in Toronto. Tickets are available online at www.InspireAwards.ca/gala2012 or in person at Priape on Church Street.