Colorado Anti-Violence Program

New Music: Carrigan

Formed in the idyllic hills of northern Vermont, Carrigan has evolved from wall-of-guitar inflected instrumental experimentation to vocally driven songwriting over washes of atmospheric textures, orchestrated samples, and progressive rhythmic structures. Singer and musical architect Zack Martin gives you a dark, eccentric glimpse into the back-corners of his psyche.

When not creating scores to such film and media pieces as The Way We Get By (in production) and India: A New life (PBS), Martin is holed-up in his Providence, RI based home-studio, crafting the next luminous masterpiece.

Young Men Never Die, formerly self-released, is the debut full-length from Carrigan in-stores November 18, 2008. Prepare to be enlightened as Carrigan gives you a taste with their exclusive digital single titled Sunshine Through the Waves, now available on iTunes.

Carrigan recorded over several years in a variety of environments and spaces throughout the city of Burlington, VT. With a perfectly orchestrated collection of songs woven together with seamless soundscapes, Carrigan gives you a record to be unconditionally embraced from front to back.

Music you may have missed: The B-52s - Funplex

Welcome to Funplex, the first record of the 21st century from The B-52s.

“It’s loud, sexy rock and roll, with the beat pumped up to hot pink,” says guitarist Keith Strickland. And anybody who was lucky enough to catch them at Red Rocks for this year’s True Colors Tour with Cyndi Lauper knows that it’s true.

“Funplex sounds like us, updated,” adds Fred Schneider. “It’s The B-52s now – or fifteen years from now.”

Fun fact: All of the main members of The B-52s are gay or lesbian except for Cindy.

Don't let this swing state swing the wrong way

Just a reminder - if you haven't read The Advocate's online report about Colorado as a swing state, published earlier in October and reported on by MHGG, here are the links again to the articles:

The Big Four Report

Pat Steadman Fights to Turn Colorado Blue

The Swing State Factor

Wayne Besen talks Sarah Palin, Focus on the Family

Colorado always makes the gay news for all the wrong reasons.

Focus on the Family and Sarah Palin--two big reasons to vote on Tuesday.

Times are hard, go on cheap dates #2

*click to embiggen and read

Enjoy some time with your honey and soak up some Denver culture on the cheap.

Take advantage of many of the upcoming FREE days at some of the following locations:

Denver Botanic Gardens 12/06,

Denver Zoo 11/02, 11/09,

Denver Museum of Nature and Science 12/07,

Denver Art Museum 11/01

Denver Center for the Performing Arts has several free days coinciding with different performances they are hosting.

For more information visit www.scfd.org.

RRCC Gay-Straight Alliance

Unity is a beautiful thing.

Books: 13 Bullets

David Wellington is the author of the popular 'Monster Island' trilogy (which I’ve heard good things about and really want to read) and this uneven vampire novel (the first of a trilogy) in which a state trooper named Arkeley and his lesbian partner Caxton fight the forces of the undead.

Although there's plenty of action and gore, the characterization and the motivation are a little iffy. Neither Arkely nor Caxton are particularly likeable and it's hard to get into their heads. And for every action scene that wows you, there’s one that leaves you scratching your head in confusion due to Wellington’s sketchy detailing and inconsistencies, mostly with regards to what the vampires are capable of and what they're vulnerable to.

All-in-all, it's a quick read and a rather jolly Halloween romp but it'll never take the place of a 'Salem's Lot' or 'Interview with the Vampire' on your bookshelf.

Costumed cruising

On Friday, October 31st, the Denver Cruisers will host a Halloween bike ride starting at 8:30pm at the Gin Mill. Join avid bike riders in full Halloween costume attire, for an evening of "cruising" to numerous downtown hot spots.

4th Annual Denver International Wine Festival

This sounds tasty.

Enjoy more than 400 wines from around the world!

The Denver International Wine Festival will be held at the University of Denver's newly constructed, School of Hotel, Restaurant and Tourism Management.

For more info visit Denver Wine Fest.

Insane Circus Halloween Party

Looks frightfully fun.

Four things keep Mitchell Bard up at night

Polls show Obama with a better than 96% chance of winning the election but the Huffington Post's Mitchell Bard won't believe it until he sees it .

Come Out and Vote video contest winner

The Human Rights Campaign Foundation, the nation’s largest lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender civil rights organization, announced today the winner of an online video contest aimed at highlighting National Coming Out Day on October 11, 2008. In this crucial election year, individuals from around the country created a short video telling the world how they will come out and vote to make a difference in the hearts and minds of their friends, family, classmates, co-workers and country.

“This year's winner, Tyler Oakley, really captures the energy and spirit I've seen on college campuses across America. Tyler's message exemplifies the power of Generation Equality to change America - with their voices and their votes,” said Candace Gingrich, HRC Youth & Campus Outreach Senior Manager.

HRC staff reviewed the video entries and chose the winner. Oakley, a 19-year-old Michigan State University student, will receive an all-expense paid trip to Washington, D.C. and will have the opportunity to be on XM radio’s show, “The Agenda with Joe Solmonese.” Along with his guest post on www.HRCBackStory.org, it will also be featured on HRC's website, YouTube channel, and Facebook and MySpace pages.
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Rapids see season end in final minute

The Rapids' season ended with a 1-1 draw against Real Salt Lake that knocked Colorado out of playoff contention on Saturday night in front of 16,047 fans at Dick's Sporting Goods Park. This marks the first time in the club's 13-year history that they will miss the postseason in back-to-back seasons.

Coming into the game, Salt Lake held a two-point advantage over the Rapids, meaning the home team needed a win to advance to the playoffs. It looked like they would move on for most of the match, as Colorado were the aggressors and had many chances, compared to a relative few for Salt Lake. For the full match recap and video highlights, click here.

I apologize

Sorry for the lack of posts so far today, playing basketball seemed like a much better use of my time.

Q Resources

Check out CU Boulder's guide to GLBT resources at Q-Resources.org.

Get tested

This is why you should get tested--and once every few years doesn't cut it. Plenty of places in Colorado offer free AIDS testing. Colorado AIDS Project has a list of metro-area sites. Find one near you and be as diligent about your testing as you are about hooking up.

Upcoming election poses concerns for both sides

With only a few days left before the election, Arianna Huffington talks about why both Democrats and Republicans are worried about the outcome of the election.

The Gay Bed and Breakfast of Terror at Starz

Premiering Halloween night at Starz, 'The Gay Bed and Breakfast of Terror's' Helen and Luella are just another typical God-fearing mother and daughter who happen to bake mincemeat muffins and run a charming if not a bit faded Bed and Breakfast Inn.
Or are they?

On the eve of the biggest gay party weekend of the year, and having not made advance reservations, five 'couples' find themselves having to make accommodations far from the city.

There's Dom and Alex, the 'performers' and Deborah and Gabby, the sophisticated, entrepreneurial 'lipsticks'. There's also Mike and Eric, the upscale 'yuppie' power couple and their annoying 'fag-hag' friend, Lizette. Also checking in are Starr and Brenda, the struggling folk singer and tough-talking tomboy and lastly Rodney and Todd, the sugar daddy and 'personal trainer'.

What should have been the biggest gay party weekend of the year quickly turns into every gay and lesbian's worst nightmare!

I just saw this last week and it's a hoot-and-a-half. Watch for my review later this week.

Barbra blogger

Superstar songstress Barbra Streisand lashes out her famously long nailsat Sarah Palin on Huffingtonpost.com. - via Lady Bunny

Eyes Wide Shut Halloween Party

* click to embiggen and read

It's gotta be better than the movie.

Who's supporting Prop. 8?

Church-going African-Americans love Obama. Gay marriage - not so much?

Lots of changes to the Broncos roster

The Denver Broncos on Monday announced several roster transactions, including the additions of free-agent wide receiver Chad Jackson and tackle Matt Murphy to their active roster.

Denver also on Monday signed cornerback Josh Bell to its active roster from its practice squad while adding center Greg Eslinger and cornerback Rashod Moulton to its practice squad.

Jackson is a third-year wide receiver who spent his first two professional seasons with New England, which selected him in the second round (36th overall) of the 2006 NFL Draft from the University of Florida. He competed in training camp with the Patriots this season but was waived on Aug. 31.

For the DenverBroncos.com blog entry, click here.

Out on DVD: Gay Pioneers

Produced by Equality Forum and WHYY and directed by award-winning PBS documentary filmmaker Glenn Holsten – Gay Pioneers is the pre-Stonewall story of gay and lesbian activists who staged the first homosexual civil rights demonstrations in Philadelphia, Washington and New York from 1965 to 1969.

Be the 5th person to comment this post and win your very own, brand-spanking-new, factory-sealed copy of "Gay Pioneers". Email your contact information to drewdenver@aol.com so I can mail it out to ya.

Racism at the McCain/Palin rally in Telluride?

I'd heard the racist bile was spewing hot and heavy at these McCain/Palin rallies but this?

The 'N' word at a political rally?

In Telluride?

And Telluride even has a gay ski week.

Maybe these racists were from out of town.

No surprisingly gay small towns in Colorado?

No small town in Colorado made Out Traveler's Top 5 Surprisingly Gay Small Towns on advocate.com, but nominations are open on MHGG. What Colorado small town do you think should be on the list and why?

I could tell you some things about Sterling, CO that would curl your toes.

There's a reason it's called the Queen City of the Plains.

Rainbow Alley

Rainbow Alley is Denver's GLBT youth resource.

They've got some amazing programs and services so be sure to check them out and/or support them with time and money.

Queer as Folk's Gale Harold out of intensive care

Gale Harold is on the mend after his tragic motorcycle accident, and the conversation on Hal Sparks continues on MHGG with 38 comments and counting.

Pet of the Week: Roxy

Hi, my name is Roxy. I was brought into MaxFund because all the commotion in my last home was a little too much for me. If things get too hectic, though, I feel comfortable going into my kennel. I love lots attention with hugs, kisses and cuddles!

I walk with other dogs here at the shelter and seem to get along with most of them; although, the barking in the small dog room is a little noisy for my tastes. I am not too crazy about dog parks, it seems like too many dogs around me. So I am looking for a nice and quiet forever home with a calm atmosphere. I would do fine with well-mannered children. I am a very awesome gal, if I may say so myself, and am an awesome companion to anyone who would like my lifestyle.

Come and check me out to see if we can get along. I hope we can because I am so great and would make someone a fantastic forever friend. Find out more about at MaxFund.org

Denver Gay Bar & Club Schedules

Monday:
Charlie’s: Karaoke with Dave and 1/2 price night for guys in their underwear
BJ’s Dart Tournament at 8 p.m. with Bar Tabs given away
Logo day at Compound for drink specials and free pool from 9 p.m. to close

Tuesday:
Lannie’s Clocktower Cabaret Open Stage sign up at 7:30 and do your thing at 8:15
Charlie’s: Buzzwords Trivia night starts at 8 p.m.
JR’s Karaoke with DJ Adam at 10 p.m.M

Wednesday:
Charlie’s: Karaoke with AJ
Boyztown Strippers and amateur strip off contest
Lannie’s Clocktower Cabaret presents The Demented Divas in ‘Totally Plowed’
BJ’s MileHiBullseye Dar League at 7:30 pm. and dancers at 9 p.m.
BJ’s Karaoke at 8 p.m.
JR’s Twisted Bingo at 9 p.m.
Drag Show at 11 p.m. at El Potrero Mexican restaurant and nightclub

Thursday:
1/2 price night until 2 a.m. and .50 cent domestic drafts from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Naughty Pierre’s Comedy/Burlesque Extravaganza at Lannie’s
BJ’s Vollyeball out back at 6 p.m.
Eagle Underwear Night
JR’s $1 wells busy night
Tracks 18+ night
Hamburger Mary’s/Club M Liquid Dance Party
El Potrero Salsa Dance Night

Friday:
Charlie’s: Show skin to win 1/2 price drinks to bare chested boys.
Lannie Garrett and her Quintet sing Songs from the Movies
Variety Shows at BJs at 8 and 10:30 p.m. with complimentary appetizers from 5:30 to 7 p.m.
Tracks First Friday presented by Babes Around Denverthe largest women’s party in Denver.
Hamburger Mary’s Dream Girls Review every 1st Friday of the month
Slut Bingo every second Friday of the month
guy and girl strippers at 10:30 p.m. at El Potrero

Saturday:
Compound Dart Tournament at 3 p.m.
Compound Thrust dancing in Basix
Tracks big night
Wrangler: Sweet, this monthly dance party takes place the second Saturday of every month at Wrangler.
Charlie’s Beer Bust $5 from 2-5 p.m. and 1/2 price wells for shirtless guys.
BJ’s Carousel, Jazzanne Capri and Sydney Andrews present Babes on Broadway the last Saturday of every month.
Gay night at El Potrero Mexican restaurant and nightclub
JR’s Feygele Feud

Sunday:
Gay Night at El Potrero Mexican restaurant and nightclub
Vinyl
Wrangler Beer Bust starts at 4 p.m.
Charlie’s Vivid Cabaret hosted by Michael Vrooman from 8-10 pm.
Beer Bust from 4-8 p.m. at El Potrero with free Mexican food and drag show at 11 p.m.
$5 all you can drink bud, bud light soda and juice at Compound

Am I missing anything? Email me at drewdenver@aol.com.

Mile High Meth Project

www.MileHighMethProject.com

Goonies 2 cancelled?

Goonies never say die! Except sometimes they do.

GLBT domestic violence report

Today, the National Coalition of Anti-Violence Programs (NCAVP) and 37 of its member organizations across the country released their report on Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) Domestic Violence in 2007. The 50-page report, released annually by NCAVP, examines data compiled from thousands of LGBT people who experienced intimate partner violence during the year 2007. The report found that, in 2007, reported cases of domestic violence declined by 13% but that domestic violence in LGBT relationship is still vastly unreported. Reporting regions include: Los Angeles, San Francisco, Colorado, Chicago, Boston, Kansas City, New York City, Columbus, Philadelphia, Houston, Virginia, Seattle, and Milwaukee. In addition to the quantitative information, the report includes narratives from survivors, data analyses from local LGBT community groups, recommendations and tips for service providers, and a state guide on LGBT access to domestic violence orders of protection.

"October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month which is an excellent opportunity for LGBT people to talk about the reality that violence and abuse does happen in our relationships," said Sharon Stapel, Executive Director of the New York City Anti-Violence Project (AVP). "It is also critically important that LGBT communities know that there is support available if they are in a violent relationship," Stapel stated, "Although we are heartened to see a drop in the number of reports of LGBT domestic violence across the country, we know that the numbers are drastically under-reported and that we have seen a sharp spike in domestic violence-related calls at NYC AVP in October 2008 as the economy worsens. We believe that NCAVP's report will provide not only vital information about domestic violence in our communities but also necessary referral information for victims of domestic violence."

Traditional domestic violence programs do not always offer services specific to LGBT victims of domestic violence, which may prevent some LGBT victims from seeking services. One lesbian survivor described her experience coming out to a service provider. "She seemed more surprised than I was that my girlfriend was being abusive and she kept saying 'he' even after I told her this was my girlfriend. They seemed very reluctant to let me into shelter and said they rarely take women without kids." This report provides referral information to LGBT-specific anti-violence programs around the U.S. and Canada. Almost all of these programs provide crisis intervention services for LGBT people experiencing domestic violence.

NCAVP documented nearly equal percentages of calls from men and women with 5% of reports coming from transgender victims. Over 75% of calls came from victims identifying themselves as gay or lesbian, with 12% identifying as heterosexual, 7% as bisexual, and the remainder self identifying as queer or questioning. Callers accessing NCAVP reported weapons as part of the abuse 7% of the time and callers reported sexual assault occurring 9% of the time as a part of the abuse. 18% of callers reported police involvement in their cases.

This ability to access appropriate support for LGBT survivors of intimate partner abuse is further complicated by violence and bias that many LGBT people face outside of their relationships. "Many LGBT individuals experience hate-motivated violence, harassment, mistreatment and bullying as a part of their daily lives. This terrifying reality can make any violent or controlling behavior within a relationship seem like a minor issue by comparison," said Avy Skolnik, AVP's coordinator of NCAVP. "This is dangerous, in part, because intimate partner violence can be deadly." In 2007, NCAVP documented five DV-related deaths.

"I've been with my boyfriend for 2 years," commented one survivor in the report. "He's been violent for a while so I don't know why I let him stay. One time, he beat me up pretty bad, destroyed my cell phone, and threw my computer out the window. Luckily I wasn't hurt too badly this time but I am worried about what he might do next time."

One of the reasons why it might be difficult for some LGBT people to recognize that they are experiencing abuse may be related to a dearth of information and/or role models. One survivor commented in the report that "My family blamed the abuse on my being a lesbian and told me it was my fault."

Additionally, intimate partner violence can be difficult for LGBT communities to publicly acknowledge and address at a time when there is a struggle for legal recognition of LGBT relationships. "People often feel immense pressure to keep quiet about any relationship problems they are experiencing. But LGBT people, just like straight people, deserve to be in relationships free of violence and fear. And if we experience abuse from someone we are dating or from a long term partner, we deserve the same access to support," remarked Terra Slavin, Lead DV Staff Attorney at the L.A. Gay and Lesbian Center.

The data in the report is derived from an intake tool that NCAVP member organizations - primarily local LGBT victim services organizations - utilize when directly working with victims of domestic and intimate partner violence and is submitted to NCAVP for analysis.

The National Coalition of Anti-Violence Programs (NCAVP) addresses the pervasive problem of violence committed against and within lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer (LGBTQ) and HIV-affected communities. NCAVP is a coalition of community-based organizations that document and advocate for victims of anti-LGBT and anti-HIV/AIDS violence/harassment, domestic violence, sexual assault, police misconduct and other forms of abuse. NCAVP is dedicated to creating a national response to the violence plaguing these communities and supporting existing anti-violence organizations and emerging local programs in their efforts to document and prevent such violence.

New Music: Punisher: War Zone

I don't know how I feel about yet another Punisher adaption but Lionsgate (NYSE: LGF) is pleased to announce the upcoming soundtrack release to PUNISHER: WAR ZONE, from Marvel Comics’ latest film adaptation of fictional vigilante and deadly antihero Frank Castle. The lethal motion picture soundtrack features a powerful collection of A-list rockers including the first new music in 3 years from Rob Zombie in addition to heart-pounding songs from rock icons such as Seether, Slayer, Slipknot and Rise Against. The fifteen-track album attacks stores on 11/25/08. The film opens nationwide on December 5th, 2008.

The original track “War Zone”, written for and inspired by the film, contains the kind of raw, throttling energy that has made Rob Zombie a platinum selling artist. The song will also serve as the first single from the soundtrack. About his contribution, Rob Zombie said: "I love writing music for films, rather than just throwing them an unwanted B side or remix. This track was written exclusively for Punisher War Zone. A punishing track for a punishing movie."

The record also features Slayer’s 2008 Grammy winning “Final Six” and current chart-topping singles from Slipknot “Psychosocial” and Seether “Fallen”. The beatdown doesn’t stop there, with a broad mix of new and unreleased music that spans every niche of the rock genre, including unreleased songs by premiere punk group Rise Against and emo scenesters Senses Fail. Dan Trapp of Senses Fail had this to say: "We are super excited to be a part of the Punisher legacy… when we heard we were going to be involved, we all threw up in our hands out of excitement.”

Providing extra ammunition to round out the album are emerging artists Kerli, highly praised electronica duo Justice, and an inspired, propulsive original score by Michael Wandmacher. This all adds up to make the PUNISHER: WAR ZONE soundtrack one of the most anticipated of the season.

Layoffs at Queen Soopers?

Uh-oh, millions of layoffs is bad enough, but when they start talking about Kroger, then I worry about good old Queen Soopers at 9th and Corona. Where else can you pick up a pound of beef to serve for dinner and 180 pounds of beef to come over and help you eat it--all in the same shopping trip?


More Queen Soopers fun:

Gifts of Heritage

The National Trust for Historic Preservation and the Human Rights Campaign Foundation today announced a partnership to cooperatively market Gifts of Heritage, a charitable program that accepts donations of architecturally or historically significant homes and then sells them to preservation minded buyers. The program will be marketed to the memberships of the two organizations and proceeds from any sales will benefit both equally.

The Gift of Heritage program allows donors who have an interest in supporting advancement of the LGBT community and historic preservation an opportunity to support both national institutions, and insures that historically or architecturally significant properties are preserved for future generations in private ownership.

“We are pleased to partner with the Human Rights Campaign Foundation because members of the LGBT community have a long history of preserving historic buildings and neighborhoods, and revitalizing communities,” said Richard Moe, president of the National Trust for Historic Preservation.

According to the partnership’s structure, the National Trust for Historic Preservation will actually take ownership of properties gifted through the program and manage them until sold. A preservation and conservation easement protecting the property will be established and described to potential buyers. Marketing and sale of properties will be done in consultation with Human Rights Campaign Foundation. A portion of the proceeds will be placed in an endowment fund for the National Trust for Historic Preservation to regularly monitor the easement.


Individuals may donate their property during their lifetime either outright or with a retained life estate, or they may donate it through a bequest in their will. There are three general requirements for a property to be eligible for the Gifts of Heritage program: be at least 50 years old with architecturally defining features; be unencumbered (no liens or mortgages); and, meet minimum valuation requirements. Donors receive a charitable deduction on their federal income taxes, avoid capital gains on the property’s appreciated value and remove the asset from their estate.

The National Trust for Historic Preservation is a non-profit membership organization bringing people together to protect, enhance and enjoy the places that matter to them. By saving the places where great moments from history – and the important moments of everyday life – took place, the National Trust for Historic Preservation helps revitalize neighborhoods and communities, spark economic development and promote environmental sustainability. With headquarters in Washington, DC, 9 regional and field offices, 29 historic sites, and partner organizations in all 50 states, the National Trust for Historic Preservation provides leadership, education, advocacy and resources to a national network of people, organizations and local communities committed to saving places, connecting us to our history and collectively shaping the future of America’s stories. For more information, visit www.PreservationNation.org .

James Dobson in the Radio Hall of Fame

On November 8, 2008, the Museum of Broadcast Communications plans to induct James Dobson's anti-gay Focus on the Family radio program into its Radio Hall of Fame.

GLAAD has posted a video on their blog that aims to bring attention to the hurtful and defamatory things Dobson has said and drive people to contact the Radio Hall of Fame to express their concern over his induction.

Either the members of the Steering Committee don't know who James Dobson is and of the hurtful and defamatory things he says about LGBT people, or they just don't care.

James Dobson has a long history of attacking and making things up about gay people. Unfortunately, the media will often times give Dobson a national platform outside his radio program to spread his lies, lies that then reach millions.

Among his many false claims, Dobson has said being gay "has to do with an identity crisis that occurs to early to remember it" and that gay people "have as many as 300 to 1,000 partners in a lifetime." He has also falsely claimed that committed gay couples "cannot be a family" and that allowing them to get married would "destroy the family."

Read more at www.GLAADblog.

Brothas4Ever Halloween

Don't miss a Brothas4Ever Halloween on Monday, October 27th, at 7 p.m. (Meeting #371). This is to be a potluck so bring something tasty to share and feel free to dress in costume.

For more information check out www.ItTakesAVillageColorado.org.

Down to the wire for Prop. 8

From HRC regarding Prop. 8:

Polls are close, and it's time to dig deep.

The struggle for equality in this historic election depends on it.

Give TODAY and help us reach 150,000 voters in the final days.

There are a lot of empty chairs around our headquarters.

That's because one-third of HRC's entire staff is out in the field, working day and night to turn out voters.

Their work couldn't be more critical. Less than two weeks out, the polling is still dangerously close on ballot fights that will shape our struggle for years to come.

We're only $33,809 away from our one-week goal of $150,000 to reach 150,000 voters. What we do in the coming days – and what you are able to do – could make or break this. Will you help us get out the vote and win this election?

Donate now – we'll be able to reach one voter for every dollar you give TODAY.

In 11 days, we could be celebrating sweeping, unprecedented change...or we could be facing down leaders and policies that treat LGBT Americans as society's second-class citizens.

We know exactly what we need to do to win, and how to do it – HRC was named the #2 political group in the US after the 2006 election – and we can put your gift to work immediately.

Do it for all the people who would have been protected under an inclusive workplace discrimination or hate crimes law – if only we'd had more allies in Congress and the White House.

Do it for Matthew Shepard, brutally murdered 10 years ago this month simply for being himself.

Do it for Eric Breidenbaugh, who had to find out on television that his partner had died in a plane crash after the airport refused to tell him anything because he was not an "actual family member."

Do it for Marine Staff Sgt. Eric Alva, the first American soldier wounded in Iraq, who gave a leg for his country but whose country would have rejected his service if they had known he was gay.

Do it for our hero Del Martin, who died in August, but not before she got to marry her partner of 55 years in California's first legal same-sex marriage.

Do it for transgender Americans, among the most vulnerable in our community, who desperately need protection against hate violence and job discrimination – sooner and not later.

Do it for America's timeless values – equality, fairness, freedom, tolerance, inclusion.

Give today, Drew, for all of us – before it's too late.

It's down to the wire, and I can't see another election like this in our lifetimes. Thank you for your tireless commitment.

Apple sez: No on Prop 8

Apple is announcing their opposition to anti-gay marriage Prop. 8 front and center right on the front page of Apple.com. Here's what they have to say:

Apple is publicly opposing Proposition 8 and making a donation of $100,000 to the No on 8 campaign. Apple was among the first California companies to offer equal rights and benefits to our employees’ same-sex partners, and we strongly believe that a person’s fundamental rights — including the right to marry — should not be affected by their sexual orientation. Apple views this as a civil rights issue, rather than just a political issue, and is therefore speaking out publicly against Proposition 8.

Students exposed to HIV?

Fifty teenagers in one St. Louis high school exposed to HIV all at once?

How does this happen?

I hope the school has the facts on HIV transmission and isn't panicking needlessly over a cafeteria employee or janitor testing positive for HIV and creating chaos over nothing.

If you don't have the facts about HIV or know how it is transmitted, find out from Colorado AIDS Project .

Sarah Palin + James Dobson = Scary

Of course--when Sarah Palin comes to Colorado, who does she pal around with? James Dobson. If that doesn't decide your vote, then I wash my hands of you. Check out this scary article from The Advocate.

Music you may have missed: Idina Menzel - I Stand

Idina Menzel (Broadway’s Wicked) has released a powerful collection of exquisite self-written new songs.
Menzel’s career began as a teenager in Long Island, New York singing for weddings and bar mitzvahs. In the winter of 1995, Idina auditioned for Broadway-bound ‘Rent’ and won the part of Maureen, an outspoken bisexual performance artist. In 2003, she originated the role of ‘the green girl’ in ‘Wicked’ which included her show-stopping performance of the song “Defying Gravity”.

Republicans giving up on Musgrave?

Rumor has it that the National Republican Congressional Committee (NRCC) is pulling the plug on funds for the Marilyn Musgrave campaign, leaving her stranded a week before the election with challenger Betsy Markey hot on her heels.

I guess what goes around, comes around.

Marilyn, sometimes when you try to take away things from other people--like, for example, their rights--things eventually get taken away from you--like campaign funds.

It couldn't have happened to a more deserving person.

Times are hard, go on cheap dates

The economy sucks but your love life doesn't have to.

If the economy is eating a hole in your wallet then check out these "5 Cheap Dates for the Thrifty Gay Man." I like the first one because Denver is full of museums and we have a great Botanic Gardens (pictured).

It gets even better in the winter with "Blossoms of Light."

As for #3, the potluck - I'll bring the beer.

Bullied by the bus driver

What is it with adults who not only stand by when kids get bullied, but actually lead the charge? Okay, this didn't happen in Colorado, but I'm extra-sensitive now to this kind of stuff because it IS happening in Colorado and I'm personally involved and I'm getting real close to my limit. All I can say is that if children can't depend on the adults who are supposed to take care of them and protect them, then how can we expect them to trust anyone or to grow up to be trusting and protecting adults? Now even adults are using the word "gay" to put down and attack kids.

Is the 10-year-old boy who was taunted by this school bus driver and attacked by these kids gay? Who knows? It doesn't matter. As long as school bullies AND adults believe that "gay" is the ultimate put-down--the very worst thing that you can about someone--this type of harassment will continue. Not only do we have to stop homophobia, but we have to stop kids--and, apparently, adults--from believing that calling someone "gay" is an insult--and a reason for physical violence.

Men of All Colors Colorado

Phil Wade announces the creation of a new multicultural gay mens group and it sounds like a great idea:

I would like to invite you to the first meeting of Men of All Colors Colorado. Actually, this is the third attempt since the 1980s to get a multiracial, multicultural, gay, male group going in Denver. Great Men of the Rockies (gay, racially equal and together), and Men of All Colors/People of All Colors, both eventually failed. A number of people want to make a third try for Men of All Colors successful.

Our initial mission is to foster supportive environments in which men from different backgrounds can meet and network. The date for the first potluck is Sunday, November 9 beginning at 3:00 p.m. There is no Bronco game on this Sunday! The location of this first social will be at my house; from there the location will hopefully change from month-to-month. The address is 267 Acoma Street, near the Compound and Boyztown.

If you would like more information, call me at 303-358-3563, or call Jeffrey at 303-831-9173, or email me. This is a potluck, so please bring some food to share, if you are able.

Red Light District Halloween Party at Alibi

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Madonna's only 5 feet tall?

This article on Examiner.com about Hollywood's shortest celebrities says that Madonna is only 5 feet tall.

That can't be right.

Can it?

I'm not a big Madonna fan but I feel like I would know it if she was only 5 feet tall.

I do know she'll be in Denver on Nov. 11 and I bet every gay man I've ever met will be there.

Go hiking with the Gay and Lesbian Sierrans

Saturday, October 25th
Ouzel Falls
Rocky Mountain National Park.

Late fall is a wonderful time to hike, so let’s try one of the lower hikes in Rocky Mountain Nation Park before it starts snowing. Ouzel Falls is a classic easy to moderate hike in the Wild Basin part of RMNP. We will get an early start to beat the crowds. This is a six-mile hike with 950 feet of elevation gain. Because this is late in the season, please be ready for snow or bad weather, with good sturdy shoes and waterproof clothing. Of course, also bring lunch and water and hiking poles are not a bad idea. Please plan to spend the entire day, so we can have dinner in Estes Park after the hike. This trip is limited to 10 hikers. Call Galen at 303 809 0413 to sign up.


Saturday, November 15th
Royal Arch Hike
Boulder, Colorado

Join GLS for a half day hike to Boulder's Royal Arch. This natural arch nestles in the foothills and offers stupendous views of Boulder and
the plains beyond. This moderate hike is 3 miles round trip and 1500 vertical feet gain. Please bring warm clothing layers, sturdy shoes, snacks and lunch, water, and sun protection. Contact Phil at bringyour4k@msn.com to sign up.


Sunday, November 9th, 4pm
Kutandara Marimba and Chorale Concert
First United Methodist Church in Boulder, Colorado

A compelling new work of power and beauty, commissioned by the Boulder Chorale, Randall McIntosh’s "Misa Tariro" (Mass of Hope) combines texts of the traditional Latin mass with sacred Shona poetry. In a performance dedicated to the plight of those living with AIDS in Africa, Kutandara Marimba will combine with 120 voices of the Concert Chorale for this premiere performance.
Tickets are $15 ($12 for seniors) and can be purchased at the door or one month in advance at locations listed on the website: www.boulderchorale.org. Dinner afterwards (at a local restaurant still to be determined) for those who are interested. To sign up, please contact Daniel Lopez (Email: globaldaniel@hotmail.com). Please include a phone number and if you will be going to dinner (in order to make reservations).


NEW
Saturday, November 29th
Mt Galbraith Park Hike
Golden, Colorado

Feel like working off some of that Thanksgiving Dinner? Want to avoid the shopping malls on this holiday weekend? Come join us for an easy-to-moderate 4.5 mile front-range hike in beautiful (and hiker-only) Mt. Galbraith Park. With a cumulative elevation gain of 728 feet, and incredible views of North and South Table Mesa, the Continental Divide and Golden Gate Canyon, we will enjoy one of the last trail hikes before snowshoe/cross-country ski seasons begins, weather permitting. An optional lunch at Woody's Pizza (no leftovers!) in Golden afterwards. Bring sturdy shoes, snacks, water, and extra layers of clothing in case of cool weather. Limited to 10. Contact Daniel Lopez (email: globaldaniel@hotmail.com) to sign up. Please provide a phone number in order to be included in the roster and in case of last-minute cancellation.

Sarah Palin is wrong

In an interview on KUSA, Sarah Palin misinformed a third-grader (and everybody else) about the role of the vice-president. Has she answered a single question since her nomination without sounding like a nincompoop? - via Towleroad

Everything good is gone

Yes, I'm talking about Zima (and Mother's Cookies!).

Long, long ago when my father, brother-in-law James and I all worked together at Packaging Systems International, we would drink 40-ounce Zimas out back in the parking lot on our breaks but we'd brown-bag it because we didn't want the other welders to know we were drinking sissy drinks.

Does that sound trashy?

Can't be helped.

I'm gonna go get me a 40-ounce Zima right now and I'm gonna brown-bag it for old-times sake.

Out on DVD: FAQs

From Everett Lewis comes a drama celebrating queer activism in the 21st century, where intolerance still prevails and prejudice can be found everywhere. Destiny, a vigilante drag queen, takes in India, a homeless teen runaway, after saving him from a gay bashing. Together with her other rainbow child, a lesbian named Lester, the three live together in an unconventional but fully functioning queer family.

In love and Amlavi

Dayn Conrad and John Ehlers (left, photo by Ellen Jasko, Rocky Mountain News) are truly Denver renaissance men. The couple founded the popular Amlavi bath and body products line that fans of good smells and soft skin are snapping up by the basketful, and Conrad is also the author of the popular children's book "Iris and Her Amazing Garden," which teaches children about the diversity of the world. Now their restored home, a 9-bedroom mansion on Quality Hill, is featured in the Rocky Mountain News.

They sound perfect.

I hate them.