active 2 years, 2 months ago

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How would you describe yourself as a flagger?

I flag when I am happy, (and the music moves me) and flagging makes me feel even happier! I love connecting with the space, music & people, all as I am connecting with myself.


What is it about flagging that you enjoy the most?

It’s another way of expressing the joy of living, the love of music, and sharing with people. I also like how it’s always constantly evolving to more challenging and interesting places.


How long have you been flagging? How did you get started?

I was first exposed to flagging in Hawai’i, where I grew up. I would watch the guys doing their stuff at clubs, and then at our first, real circuit party, "The Volcano Party" in 2002. There were a handful of really good flaggers there. Then I moved to Chicago later that year, went out a few times, went to the FireBall in ‘03. For some strange reason, I only saw some mediocre flaggers around Chicago up to this point. I felt like I had to do something about it! So I ordered a pair of flags online and practiced during spring break. I hit myself in the face and tangled up the flags more than a few times before catching on to my first real series of workable moves. It’s been on and off since then–usually in hibernation during the winter, but doing at least a couple of events in the spring and summer. …and of course, I have since met a great many wonderful flaggers in Chicago! However, I am really grateful for the sequence of events that led to me wanting to start flagging!


What was your first flagging experience?

It was in Hawai’i, at a mini-circuit party hosted by "Big Tom, " and along with the amazing music and vibe of that time, the flagging mesmerized me.


What was one of your best flagging experiences?

anytime the music and vibe is good, and i can relax and have fun, it’s a great experience. I had a lot of fun at peter loza’s going away show at circuit, on the box at the crobar, and in my living room.


Who has inspired or taught you?

Chad (my roomie then) helped me out that first week of flagging by explaining the figure 8 idea to me.

Mike "Mikey" Terado from Hawai’i always impressed me with his great showmanship and amazing skills with the flags–particularly large ones.

Dave Ouano totally catalyzed my re-entry into the flagging world two summers ago with his constant support, use of his flags, connections to people, and his incredible ability to make the flags come alive as a part of himself. He remains a good friend and mentor.

I have met many others in the community here, who inspire me with their unique ways of flagging and enjoyment of it. :)


What was one of your wildest or craziest flagging experiences?

i haven’t had a "crazy" experience, but there were two times when i totally flagged with wild abandon like a bratty kid–once at the dunes and once at hunter’s. actually, that night at hunter’s, there was a party for a male porn magazine and therefore, more than the usual number of really hot men walking around, including gay porn stars–nevertheless, these two guys said, "Forget them, let’s watch her!"


Do you make your own sets? Can you describe what kind you make?

I wish! I am such a horrible seamstress (can’t even sew buttons) that I fear to make my own–but one day I shall! I do have some good ideas for flags and designs. At the very least, I want to make a pair of Hello Kitty flags someday.


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