By Kippy Marks–
When a candidate campaigns to become a Grand Duke or Grand Duchess, there is always a representation of colors that allows voters to know whom they are voting for. In most cases, candidates will also have a “catchphrase” and a coronation theme for their step-down.
We have taken a look at the last 44 Royal Houses and have gotten to know a little about each of them. Now, I am featuring the remaining Royal Houses one at a time with each leading us to the current Reigning Monarchs and to the candidates of The Grand Ducal Council’s 50th Reign. Here is a spotlight on the 45th Royal House:
2017–2018
The 45th Royal House of The Sacred Golden Beavers.
Grand Duke XLIV: The Reluctant Grand Duke Madd Dogg 20/20
Colors: teal and gold
Symbol: golden beaver
Always saying: “Go big or go home.”
Grand Duchess XLV: The Lady of the Bodacious Latkas Miss Shugana
Colors: teal and gold
Symbol: golden beaver
Always Saying: “Gimmie your money.”
Coronation Theme: Russian Mafia
Their Court consisted of:
Royal Crown Prince: Jimmy McConnell
Royal Crown Princess: Miso Hornay
Prince Royal: Scroto T. Bagginz
Princess Royale: Kai Kai B. Michaels
Debutante: Loma Prieta
White Knight: Sean
Royal Babies: Scott Rice & The One and Only Rexy
King of Hearts: Zak Franet
Queen of Hearts: Alabama Slama
Jill of Hearts: Samantha
Royal Bunnies: Gareth Gooch & Menorah Manischevitz
Royal Daddy: Ken Harper
Royal Dominatrix: She Ruhn
California Gold: Dusty Porn
California King: Buster Rite Open
The 45th Royal House has always been one of my favorite Royal Houses. From the very beginning, their campaign was filled with robust excitement, laughter, and tons of bodacious love. After successfully winning their campaigns, members of this Royal House followed up with a year of record-breaking fundraising, electric campiness, and unforgettable fun! The Sacred Golden Beavers proved that all walks of the LGBTQI+ communities are welcomed and embraced within the Grand Ducal Council of San Francisco.
The Sacred Golden Beavers made history with several council records. For example, under the reign of Grand Duke Madd-Dogg 20/20 & Grand Duchess Miss Shugana, they featured the first women monarchs who reigned together. Madd Dogg 20/20 was the first Drag King to hold the title of Grand Duke. And finally, The Sacred Golden Beavers were the first Royal House to raise over $100,000!
The Sacred Golden Beavers presented a court full of diversity to the Ducal Court: trans people, more people of color, women, people who live with neuro divergent conditions, and much more. Also, we can never forget their participation in the SF Pride Parade, where they showcased the Council’s oldest members, whom we all value so highly for their guidance and inspiration: Grand Duchess XVII & XXXIII Collette Le Grand and King Father 2 of California, Grand Duke V Fred Townsend (may he RIP).
Grand Duchess Miss Shugana and Grand Duke Madd Dogg 20/20 both began their journey with the Grand Ducal Council in 2015. I asked the Grand Duchess on behalf of the San Francisco Bay Times what inspired her to join the GDC. She said, “Peter Griggs (Grand Duke 43) asked me to run for Queen of Hearts and Madd Dogg 20/20 to run for King of Hearts. We both agreed and then we were hooked on all the good we could do for the community, how we could bring awareness to causes, and how we could raise funds for much needed organizations.”
I also asked, “Why Beavers?” The Grand Duchess replied, “Well, King Father 2 of California Grand Duke V Fred Townson told us that the sky is the limit and to ‘put it in their face’ … so we did … and all of you joined us with your big hearts and your fierce determination to make a difference.” She added, “We are so proud of the court that we assembled. Each of you will forever hold a special place in our heart and we are here to support you in your dreams.”
Grand Duchess Miss Shugana and Grand Duke Madd Dogg 20/20 have been together for 8+yrs. Together they have produced many shows and have inspired a new generation of performers. They are now the new producers of WWRR 2024 (Women’s Weekend Russian River 2024). Both of these extraordinary women consistantly give support and guidance to our communities and I am extremely blessed to call them my friends and chosen family.
On September 22, 2023, the Grand Ducal Council of San Francisco will celebrate 50 years of Camp and Fundraising. The celebration will take place at the Academy of Sciences in San Francisco. Please consider becoming a sponsor.
Inquiries: 50thanniversary@sfducal.org
Ticket sales for this event have been extended to September 1, 2023, ($60) and are on sale now through September 1, 2023, with a hard stop on that final date. Save the dates both for your ticket purchases and for this once-in-a-lifetime historic event!
Kippy Marks is Grand Duke XL of The Grand Ducal Council of San Francisco. He is the first ever elected African-American Grand Duke.
Celebrating 50 Years of the Grand Ducal Council of San Francisco
Published on August 10, 2023
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