Friday, October 31, 2008
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.
Thursday, October 30, 2008
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.
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
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.
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.
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
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
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.
Monday, October 27, 2008
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.
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.
Friday, October 24, 2008
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.
Thursday, October 23, 2008
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.
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
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.
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.
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
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.
Magic Johnson faking AIDS?
This is old but it's so outrageous that it's still worth posting.
Did you hear about the radio hosts who accused Magic Johnson of faking AIDS?
How do you fake AIDS?
Why would you fake AIDS?
If it was supposed to be a joke, it's just not funny.
Maybe these dolts should talk to some of the hard-working case managers at the Colorado AIDS Project who work with people living with AIDS on a daily basis. Or maybe they should check out some of the volunteers at Project Angel Heart who deliver meals to the many people in the Denver and Colorado Springs areas who are living with AIDS. Or maybe they should just keep their mouths shut.
Colorado in The Advocate again
Seems like everywhere you look these days, Colorado is in the media. Advocate writer Michael Joseph Gross talks about what he learned at the DNC in Denver - and more.
Monday, October 20, 2008
Pet of the Week: Nacho
Hi, I'm Nacho! I'm kinda new around here and am still checking it all out, but in the meantime please feel free to come down and meet me in person. I'd love to go out for a stroll! 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
Eagle Underwear Night
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.
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.
50,000 California gay couples will marry if Prop. 8 fails
Pundits and wags expect half of California's 100,000+ gay couples to marry if Prop. 8 fails in November. Keep your fingers crossed. - via OC Register
Date Night: Swan Lake
Colorado Ballet celebrates its 48th season of bringing world-class quality dance to Denver and to the state with a perfect date night in Swan Lake. This classical ballet features an evil curse, a treacherous foe, love, magic and mystery with Tchaikovsky's majestic music to make the entire performance soar.
Buy two tickets for only $109.00 to see SWAN LAKE and enjoy parking at the Curtis Hotel and dinner for two at The Corner Office Restaurant on the night of the performance. The Corner Office Restaurant is located at 1401 Curtis Street in Denver. As a courtesy, The Corner Office will call to confirm your reservation time. You will receive a dinner voucher along with your performance ticket which must be presented at The Corner Office to receive special offer.
Pikes Peak Gay and Lesbian Community Center, "No on Amendments 46 and 48"
Pikes Peak Gay & Lesbian Community Center today announced its formal opposition to Amendments 46 & 48.
"Both of these amendments are deceitful in nature," says Rob Beam, the Center's Board President. "Much like Amendment 2, they claim to be something they are not."
According to the Center, Amendment 46 is ultimately intended to remove equal opportunity programs like Women's Math Programs in colleges. Amendment 48 is intended to ban abortion, but has the effect of also banning forms of birth control. Both amendments are considered to be attacks against women and variouscommunities.
"I'm excited our organization has taken a stand against these two measures that could have a negative impact on many diverse communities, including the LGBT community," says Ryan Acker, the Center's Executive Director.
The Pride Center plans to release additional information about this year's ballot in the coming days. For more information, please contact (719) 471-4429.
National Write Your Congressman
National Write Your Congressman (NWYC), is a non-partisan organization that assists people across America to write their congressman more effectively. This year the group celebrated their 50th Anniversary.
Check out them out for more information or to support a good cause.
Gay and Lesbian Sierrans want you
GLS is always looking for new outings leaders and event organizers. Would you like to organize a hike on your favorite trail or take a fun group to a great restaurant or movie? Organizing these events is really not as difficult as it might seem.
Contact Jacob at jacob.morgan@rmc.sierraclub.org for more information.
New York Warriors win the gay Superbowl
19 teams from 16 cities competed in the eight annual Gay Bowl National Tournament with the team from New York claiming victory - via KSL.com
Arguments against marriage equality, consider yourself demolished
The Connecticut gay marriage decision "demolishes the chief arguments against marriage equality" - via The New Republic
Obama-Biden on HIV/AIDS
On a conference call with reporters on Thursday, leaders in the fight against HIV/AIDS discussed how an Obama-Biden administration would provide real leadership to combat the epidemic and particularly its disproportionate impact on LGBT and African Americans. While there are many public health issues facing America, Senators Barack Obama and Joe Biden will finally provide the kind of leadership on HIV/AIDS prevention, research and treatment that all Americans deserve.
“I’m really proud to support Senators Obama and Biden because they have done more than give lip service to AIDS prevention, they have worked hard to be leaders on both international and domestic AIDS prevention,” said Congresswoman Diana DeGette, Vice Chair of the House Committee on Energy and Commerce. “With the Ryan White CARE Act up for reauthorization next year and the potential to pass the Early Treatment of HIV Act, we need an administration that will work hand-in-hand with Congress to make this happen.”
More after the jump.
In contrast, “Senator McCain has shown no interest in supporting these programs, and more importantly, over the last eight years we have lost so much of the progress we made during the Clinton administration,” according to Sandra Thurman, former Director of the White House Office of National AIDS Policy.
Barack Obama and Joe Biden are committed to expanding funding for research, especially for prevention options including vaccines and microbicides. Senator Obama led a bipartisan effort with Senator Olympia Snowe (R-ME) to introduce the Microbicide Development Act, which would accelerate the development of topical applicants that prevent transmission of HIV and other infections, empowering women in the battle against the disease.
In contrast, “Senator McCain has shown no interest in supporting these programs, and more importantly, over the last eight years we have lost so much of the progress we made during the Clinton administration”, said Sandra Thurman, former Director of the White House Office of National AIDS Policy.
After eight years of little progress, the stakes for reform could not be higher. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, in 2006 more than one million Americans were infected with HIV/AIDS. In the African American community, more than 50 percent of new HIV/AIDS cases in the United States are African American males. Additionally, women account for more than one quarter of all new HIV/AIDS diagnoses, and in 2005, men who have sex with men accounted for 71 percent of all HIV infections.
While John McCain continues to be silent about the growing number of domestic HIV/AIDS cases, Barack Obama has pledged to institute a National AIDS Strategy within his first year in office.
“Having a National AIDS Strategy, the likes of which we have never had in the history of this epidemic, will help transform the public and patient perceptions about HIV/AIDS,” said Thurman.
Jesse Milan, Jr., who has lived with AIDS for twenty-six years, applauded Senator Obama for his commitment to breaking down stereotypes and misconceptions about HIV/AIDS. Milan, the Chair of the Black AIDS Institute and Vice President and Director of Community Health Systems at the Altarum Institute, applauded Obama for inspiring many HIV/AIDS patients to live their life and not be crippled by their disease.
Milan said, “I’m so proud of Senator and Mrs. Obama for their leadership with regard to the LGBT community; the stigma of homophobia is not something that is crippling them, instead they are inspiring those of us who have been living with this disease.”
Murderer of gay man sentenced
John L. McGhee (left), murderer of Edgar Garzon, sentenced to at least 22 years. - via Gay City News
Denver Center in 2009: Color Purple, Tang Concubines, Little House on the Prairie A Bronx Tale, August: Osage County, Spring Awakenings, and more
Denver Center Attractions (DCA) today announced its 2009 subscription season. In a year that celebrates the 30th anniversary of Robert Garner joining his Garner Attractions with The Denver Center for the Performing Arts, DCA brings to Denver Tony honored hits and return engagements of Broadway’s best.
Read all about them after the jump.
Oprah Winfrey Presents THE COLOR PURPLE opens the season at The Buell Theatre January 7-18. This soul-stirring musical, based on the classic Pulitzer Prize-winning novel by Alice Walker and the Oscar-nominated film by Steven Spielberg, is the unforgettable and inspiring story of a woman named Celie who triumphs over tremendous odds to find joy in life and her true inner beauty. Nominated for eleven Tony Awards®, THE COLOR PURPLE features a Grammy®-nominated score of jazz, gospel and blues. THE COLOR PURPLE, called “a bright odyssey of survival and triumph” by The New York Times, captures the hearts of young and old and unites audiences in a celebration of love. THE COLOR PURPLE is sponsored in Denver by HealthONE and Alto Restaurant.
In April, the enchanting world of the Chinese Tang Dynasty will be brought to life in TANG CONCUBINES, playing The Buell Theatre April 7-19. TANG CONCUBINES compares the treacherous power of one concubine with the immortal love and sacrifice of another. The show illuminates the glamour and impact of women in China’s Tang Dynasty and takes the audience to unprecedented heights of visual splendor through costumes, scenic design and compelling action. TANG CONCUBINES made history for Chinese shows in the international arena by winning two Canadian Dora Awards for musical theatre in 2006 in the categories of Best Choreography and Best Costume Design.
DCA subscribers will again join Denver Center Theatre Company (DCTC) subscribers for the touching pioneer musical QUILTERS, May 22 – July 12 in The Stage Theatre. Written by Molly Newman and Barbara Damashek, QUILTERS is a Denver Center original, returning home in a shining new production in celebration of the DCTC’s 30th season. An international hit for more than 25 years following its 1982 world premiere at the DCTC, the rousing heritage musical was inspired by real-life stories of American pioneer women, written in diaries and letters as they braved the dangers and hardships of life on the frontier. Nominated for six Tony Awards®, including Best Musical, QUILTERS is an inspiring tale of strength and courage. QUILTERS is sponsored by Aurora Loan Services
Academy Award®-nominated actor Chazz Palminteri’s remarkable one man show A BRONX TALE comes to The Ellie Caulkins Opera House June 9-21. Palminteri’s unforgettable performance recently earned high praise from audiences and critics in its successful run on Broadway. In A BRONX TALE, the celebrated play on which he based the legendary movie, Palminteri vividly depicts a young boy’s rough childhood in the 1960s-era Bronx and the unforgettable people he encountered. A classic coming-of-age story about reaching your true potential and trusting your heart, A BRONX TALE is directed by four-time Tony Award®-winner Jerry Zaks and was called “a vibrant, warmhearted saga” by the Associated Press.
In July, DCA will launch the national touring production of AUGUST: OSAGE COUNTY direct from its phenomenal award-winning run on Broadway. The 2008 Tony Award® and Pulitzer Prize-winning Best Play will heat up The Ellie Caulkins Opera House July 24 – August 8. Written by Tracy Letts, this grand, gripping new play tells the story of the Westons, a large extended clan that comes together at their rural Oklahoma homestead when the alcoholic patriarch disappears. Forced to confront unspoken truths and astonishing secrets, the family must also contend with matriarch Violet, a pill-popping, deeply unsettled woman at the center of this storm. Directed by Anna D. Shapiro, AUGUST: OSAGE COUNTY is a rare theatrical event—a large-scale work filled with unforgettable characters, a powerful tale told with unflinching honesty and the unforgettable breakthrough of a major American playwright. The New York Times deemed AUGUST: OSAGE COUNTY “flat-out, without qualification, the most exciting new American play Broadway has seen in years.”
The Tony-winning hits continue in December, when the 2007 Tony Award®-winner SPRING AWAKENING plays The Buell Theatre. Winner of eight Tony Awards® including Best Musical, SPRING AWAKENING is a groundbreaking fusion of morality, sexuality and rock & roll that has awakened Broadway like no other musical in recent memory. SPRING AWAKENING celebrates the unforgettable journey from youth to adulthood with a power, a poignancy and a passion you will never forget. The show has rocked the Great White Way, causing the The New York Times to declare, "Broadway may never be the same again!"
Closing out the year, the new musical LITTLE HOUSE ON THE PRAIRIE will bring a heartwarming family tale to The Buell Theatre December 22 – January 3. For over 75 years, Laura Ingalls Wilder’s Little House on the Prairie books have enthralled children with the stories of pioneer America. Now the classic American story takes on a new frontier as the inspiring experiences of this pioneer family come to life in LITTLE HOUSE ON THE PRAIRIE. Laura is almost grown up and her coming of age story is the centerpiece for this new musical. Melissa Gilbert, who starred as Laura in the beloved television series, plays the role of Ma, giving LITTLE HOUSE an added dimension as a new generation discovers the Ingalls family on the American stage. Director Francesca Zambello (Disney’s The Little Mermaid) leads an accomplished creative team, including lyricist Donna di Novelli, Academy Award-winning composer Rachel Portman (Emma) and Tony Award®-winning book writer Rachel Sheinkin (The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee).
2009 season ticket packages start at just $202. To reserve your new subscription now, please call Denver Center Ticket Services: 303.893.4100 or 800.641.1222, or visit the ticket office located in the Helen Bonfils Theatre Complex at Speer & Arapahoe. Subscription packages can also be reserved online at www.denvercenter.org/bwaysubs. Single tickets are not available at this time.
DCA subscribers will also receive priority notice to the following added shows in 2009: The eagerly-awaited return of WICKED, RENT with Adam Pascal and Anthony Rapp reprising the roles that they made famous on Broadway, return engagements of CHICAGO, THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA and SPAMALOT, as well as the Denver premieres of CHITTY CHITTY BANG BANG and CIRQUE ELOIZE: NEBBIA. Details for these shows will be announced at a later date.
At the time of subscription, new and renewing series subscribers can purchase single tickets for THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA, WICKED, and RENT ahead of the general public, ensuring their chance to get great seats for these popular shows. Subscribers will also receive priority notice to purchase tickets for other added attractions prior to the general public. Additional subscriber benefits include preferred seating, free ticket exchanges and various special offers throughout the season. Subscribers will also receive a complimentary, one-year subscription to Colorado Homes & Lifestyles magazine with their 2009 season ticket package.
New this year, DCA subscribers will have added flexibility with the new Ticket Trade program. Ticket Trade allows subscribers the opportunity to exchange tickets from one subscription show into another subscription show or selected added attraction. For full details and a list of which shows are eligible for trade please visit www.denvercenter.org/bwaysubs.
Also new for the 2009 season, DCA introduces the Designer Series, our most flexible subscription package which allows subscribers to choose which shows they’d like to see and when, even to added attractions like WICKED and THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA. The Designer Series is a package of ten ticket vouchers for use in any combination of shows and times throughout the season, and can be used for any show DCA presents including non-subscription added attractions. For details, please contact the DCPA box office or visit www.denvercenter.org/bwaysubs.
Denver Center Attractions’ 2009 season is generously sponsored by United Airlines. Media sponsorship is provided by The Denver Post, CBS 4, Colorado Homes & Lifestyles magazine. Denver Center Attractions is supported in part by the Scientific and Cultural Facilities District.
The Denver Center for the Performing Arts presents and produces live theatre with Broadway touring shows, cabaret productions and a professional theatre company. The DCPA is the site of training schools for actors, a voice research laboratory and unique rental facilities. Denver Center Attractions is a preferred stop on the Broadway touring circuit and has launched many national touring premieres. Center Attractions also produces cabaret shows. The Tony Award®-winning Denver Center Theatre Company is the largest professional theatre company between Chicago and the West Coast. It produces traditional and contemporary drama and world premieres. For more information, please visit www.denvercenter.org.
Saturday, October 18, 2008
Denver Post endorses Obama
The Denver Post has endorsed Barack Obama for president saying he "is better equipped to lead America ..." - via Denver Post
Friday, October 17, 2008
Chelsea Handler is coming to Denver, is not finicky when it comes to pubic hair
Chelsea Handler returns to Denver tomorrow night for a book-signing at Tattered Cover and a show at the Paramount Theatre but she couldn't be bothered to talk to me even though I've interviewed her (with hilarious results) every other time she's come to town over the past few years.
I see how it is, Chelsea.
You get a hit talk show and you forget all about the little people.
Anyway, I just got done using the bathroom where I finally finished up reading Chelsea's most recent book 'Are You There, Vodka? It's Me, Chelsea' and I thought I'd share a little tidbit with you from the chapter 'Big Red'.
The part that wasn't a jackpot was his baseball mound of red pubic hair that looked like it had literally been attached with a glue gun. I couldn't believe how much there was, and wondered how he had never heard of scissors, or - more appropriate for that kind of growth - hedge trimmers. I didn't understand what porn he was watching to not be aware of the trimming that was happening all across the world among his compatriots. I'm not a finicky person when it comes to pubic hair maintenance and I certainly don't expect men to shave it all off, leaving themselves looking like a hairless cat. That's even creepier than seeing what Austin had, which could really only be compared to one thing: a clown in a leg lock.
And just to throw my two cents in on two points:
1. Red pubic hair can be startling it's true. I remember one guy who's pubes were straight up fluorescent. At night I could read by the light of his pubic hair. But most of the time it's not that extreme and you get used to it. I'm on kind of a redhead kick myself lately. Lots of good looking redheads in Denver.
2. Pubic hair trimming and grooming is one thing but this shaving epidemic among gay men has got to stop. It's really getting bad. I tolerated it for awhile but as time goes on I find it more and more repulsive. I repeat, when it comes to the hair down there either leave it natural or just give it a little trim from time to time. Any more than that just looks ugly and reflects poorly on your personality and character.
Chelsea really is hilarious and one of my all-time favorite celebrities to interview. She never bats an eye whether you're accusing her of sleeping her way to the top or she's asking you to score her some Ecstasy.
Check out a couple of my past interviews with Chelsea Handler after the jump. They're so worth it.
Drew Wilson interviews Chelsea Handler
Who Would You Do? Marky Mark Wahlberg versus Andy Samberg
Andy Samberg is SNL's latest 'it' boy.
Marky Mark Wahlberg went from underwear model to big time movie star.
They clashed this week when Mark didn't take too kindly to a dorky parody of himself on 'Saturday Night Live' where Samberg portrayed him as a mookish Dr. Doolittle.
Whose side are you on? Who Would You Do?
Here's a clip of Marky Mark on Jimmy Kimmel threatening Andy with a beat down for daring to poke fun.
Friday videos: Nikka Costa, Robin Thicke, Bob Sinclair
Nikka Costa - Stuck to You
Robin Thicke- Magic
Bob Sinclair - World, Hold On
From the 'Noah's Arc' soundtrack.
Stonewall general membership meeting
On October 23, the Colorado Stonewall Democrats will have a general membership meeting and you are welcome to come join in or just sit back and check things out. The meeting begins at 6:30 p.m. at Colorado Democratic Party HQ, 777 Santa Fe Drive in Denver.
CU-Boulder GLBT Resource Center reception
The Gay Lesbian Bisexual Transgender (GLBT) Resource Center at CU-Boulder welcomes GLBT people, parents, families, students, friends, and allies to their fourth annual reception. The event takes place Friday, October 17 from 3:30 - 5 p.m. in Willard Hall, Room 231. This is an opportunity to meet the GLBT Resource Center staff and to learn about the GLBT campus community and resources. For more information, call 303-492-1377 or e-mail glbtrc@colorado .edu. Sponsored by the GLBT Resource Center and Boulder PFLAG (Parents, Family, and Friends of Lesbians and Gays).
WinterPRIDE 2009
Can you feel it?! The temperatures are dropping and soon the snow will be upon us and it will be time to start thinking about some of the Gay Ski Weeks like WinterPRIDE 2009 in February.
Some things to consider:
1. Book NOW and save HUGE
2. International Mr. Gay Competition is coming to Whistler during WinterPRIDE - 24 beautiful ambassadors from around the globe will compete for the Crown of International Mr. Gay
3. DJ Ana Paula from Rio De Janeiro headlines Snowball and this is going to be one dance event you will need to be at!
Makking Sense of the Election: Bell Center ballot recommendations
Thanks to Brian Brant, Co-Chair of the Board of Directors of the GLBT Center of Colorado for passing along this information.
Bell Fiscal Policy Center is a non-partisan organization that analyzes the impact of policy to Coloradans. Below are their recommendations on the various amendments and referendum on the ballot. You can find information on each of these on their website at TheBell.org.
AMENDMENT 46
Discrimination and Preferential Treatment by Governments
Bell position: Oppose
AMENDMENT 47
Prohibition on Mandatory Labor Membership and Dues
(Right to Work)
Bell position: Oppose
AMENDMENT 48
Definition of a Person
Bell position: Oppose
AMENDMENT 49
Allowable Government Paycheck Deductions
Bell position: Oppose
AMENDMENT 50
Limited Gaming in Central City, Black Hawk and Cripple Creek
Bell position: Neutral
AMENDMENT 51
State Sales Tax Increas for People with Developmental Disabilities
Bell position: Neutral
AMENDMENT 52
Use of Severance Tax Revenue for Highways
Bell position: Oppose
AMENDMENT 53 *WITHDRAWN FROM BALLOT*
Criminal Liability of Business Executives
Bell position: Oppose
AMENDMENT 54
Campaign Contributions from Certain Government Contractors
Bell position: Oppose
AMENDMENT 55 *WITHDRAWN FROM BALLOT*
Allowable Reasons for Employee Discharge or Suspension
(Just Cause)
Bell position: Oppose
AMENDMENT 56 *WITHDRAWN FROM BALLOT*
Employer Responsibility for Health Insurance
Bell position: Oppose
AMENDMENT 57 *WITHDRAWN FROM BALLOT*
Additional Remedies for Injured Employees
Bell position: Oppose
AMENDMENT 58
Severance Taxes on the Oil and Gas Industry
Bell position: Support
AMENDMENT 59
Education Funding and TABOR Rebates
Bell position: Support
REFERENDUM L
Qualifications for Serving in the State Legislature
Bell position: Support
REFERENDA M and N
Obsolete Constitutional Provision Relating to Land Value Increases
Obsolete Constitutional Provisions Relating to Alcohol Beverages
Bell position: Neutral
REFERENDUM O
Citizen-Initiated State Laws
Bell position: Support
HRC: 1 Week/$150,000
HRC reminds us that the upcoming election is NOT in the bag and that, with three weeks to go, major threats to GLBT equality are still looming.
HRC is dispatching one-third of their entire staff to key campaigns around the country to protect our rights to marry, adopt and elect pro-equality leaders and they need to raise $150,000 in the next week to reach 150,000 voters.
Donate whatever you can to HRC.
Did you know that, after the 2006 elections the National Journal named HRC the second most successful political organization in the country?
This year, let's help make them Number One.
The Naked Truth
The Advocate has a great video series on their site called "The Naked Truth," featuring people talking about bodies and body image. With the holidays coming up, it's time to either decide to let it all hang out and love yourself the way you are, or to get or keep yourself in shape through the pig-out season.
Liberal vs. conservative: Boulder and the Springs
The Rocky Mountain News says that Boulder used to be as conservative as Colorado Springs, voting Republican until 1984. Luckily for Jared Polis, who stands to make history as the first openly gay male ever elected to a first term in Congress, that's all changed. How did granola-crunchin', gay-votin' Boulder get so liberal? And how did the Springs become ground zero for the evangelical anti-gay crowd? Check it out.
Halloween Apocalypse
B&G Productions presents their "APOCALYPSE" Halloween Party 2008 on Friday, October 31. You won't want to miss this one. Get more info at www.BandGProductions.org.
Thursday, October 16, 2008
Lil Bill O'Reilly versus Barney Frank
I started laughing as soon as Lil Bill appeared onscreen. - via Gawker
TruBlood: Please drink responsibly
If you like the Southern gothic vampires of HBO's 'True Blood' (and with scenes like the NSFW one below, who wouldn't?) then why not wet your whistle drinking what they drink?
TruBlood is available in Type O, A, B or AB and gives you all of the taste you're looking for and none of the pesky criminal charges.
Ooh-wee, that boy is fine. Good part starts at 2:59.
Glengarry Glen Ross on Siskel & Ebert
Third place is you're fired!
'Glengarry Glen Ross' opens tonight at 6:30 p.m. at The Denver Center for the Performing Arts' Ricketson Theatre.
Glengarry Glen Ross opens tonight at Denver Center
It's been a long week already and it's not even noon on Thursday yet.
I am definitely looking forward to an excellent show tonight in David Mamet's Pulitzer Prize-winning 'Glengarry Glen Ross'.
I really have to tip my hat to The Denver Center, with superb shows like 'Trip to Bountiful' and 'Noises Off', I have to say this is the best year for theatre I can remember. If 'Glengarry Glen Ross' is half as good as those two shows (and the Pulitzer Prize would lead me to believe that it is) then it's sure to be a heckuva entertaining evening.
Is the California Teachers Association for or against Prop. 8?
Very much against!
The California Teachers Association reported donating $1 million to oppose Proposition 8, the gay marriage ban, on Tuesday.
Hurray for the California Teachers Association.
Solange - Sandcastle Disco
From the 'Noah's Arc - Jumping the Broom' soundtrack. It's the radio version instead of teh Karmatronic Remix and I'm trying to decide which one I like better.
New music: Noah's Arc - Jumping the Broom Soundtrack
'Noah's Arc' ended too soon after only two seasons on Logo but now the boys are back and there's a wedding in the works in the new movie 'Noah's Arc: Jumping the Broom'.
I just got ahold of the soundtrack (available October 21 through Amazon.com and LOGO) and it's a jolly romp through musical styles with everything from disco and R&B to folk.
My favorite song was probably Fol Chen's 'Cable TV' a goofy paean to the joys of a cheap date but, as a fan of Rufus Wainwright, it was impossible not to like soundalike Matt Alber's 'End of the World' - you'll swear it's Rufus.
Legendary folk singer Phoebe Snow contributes two new songs for the soundtrack and also pops up in the movie (opening in limited release in New York and on video on demand on October 24).
Then we kick things up a notch with some six-degrees-of-Destiny's Child-disco with former Child Michelle Williams' 'We Break the Disco' and Beyonce's little sister Solange with a remix of 'Sandcastle Disco'.
Solange really came into her own with her retro-Motown CD 'Sol-Angel and the Hadley Street Dreams' even if she could still use some practice coming up with good names for albums.
Capping things off, we've got one of the big hits of the past summer, 'World, Hold On' by Bob Sinclair.
It certainly put me in the mood for a wedding.
Or maybe just a honeymoon.
Music you may have missed: Cyndi Lauper-Bring Ya to the Brink
Possibly my most favorite celebrity in the world, Cyndi Lauper burst onto the world stage in the 1980s as the quintessential girl who wanted to have fun. After more than 20 years and record sales in excess of 25 million, she has proven she has the heart and soul to keep her legion of fans compelled by her every creative move.
“Bring Ya to the Brink” firmly asserts her position as one of the most beguiling, innovative, and downright exciting recording artists of this – or any – generation.
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
Lollipop! with Rockstar Aaron and Pinky 500 looks tasty
Aw, nobody's ever made a video just for me before.
That's actually a lie.
Nobody's ever made a video just for me that I could show in public before.
Thanks Rockstar Aaron and Pinky 500 - I'll see you at Lollipop!
Chelsea Handler in Denver
Don't forget, Chelsea Handler will be here on October 18, with a book signing at 5 p.m. at the Tattered Cover LoDo and an 8 p.m. performance at the Paramount Theatre. If you're as big a fan as I am, you'll want to read everything about her, including this piece in Denver Magazine.
Books: Kyle’s Bed & Breakfast
Greg Fox’s wildly popular comic strip, Kyle’s Bed & Breakfast, is syndicated in magazines and newspapers across the country. It is the story of a group of five neurotic, gorgeous, and always interesting men sharing their lives, ambitions, and one extremely cramped bathroom.
Madonna divorcing Guy Ritchie
Ellen sez: Vote no on Prop. 8
The fight against Prop. 8 is not going well. Get the word out to all of your friends and family in California and donate if you can.
It's like Amendment 2 all over again.
Fierce Tranny: The Top 15 Transsexual Killer Movies
Vampires, zombies, werewolves and ... transsexuals?
It seems that, in Hollywood, the terrifying transsexual is right up there with the most legendary of movie monsters.
HorrorYearbook.com (a new find for me) has a great list of the Top 15 Transsexual Killer Movies.
There are a couple of old favorites like 'Silence of the Lambs' and 'Psycho' and plenty of more obscure stuff I've never heard of like 'Girls Nite Out' and 'He Lives by Night'.
Most of them sound painfully, horribly, joyously politically incorrect but that's exactly how I like my trashy gorefests so I say bring 'em on.
California gay marriage in trouble
An alarming letter from HRC President Joe Solmonese:
Marriage equality in California is now losing by 5 points, according to the latest poll numbers.
Until that poll, we were leading in California. What happened? Anti-LGBT groups are winning the fundraising battle by more than $10 million – and their vicious, untrue ads are everywhere.
Our lead has slipped, but victory is still within reach. We need to get on the air quickly to counter their lies and we need your help to do it.
Donate now to the HRC California Marriage PAC – No on Proposition 8.
Can you imagine a loving, committed, married couple watching their marriage rights evaporate against their will? I don't think there's any precedent for that in modern civilization.
Well, that's what could happen across California if Proposition 8 passes and the decision of the state Supreme Court is reversed.
Anti-LGBT forces are organizing and mobilizing furiously, raising money hand over fist, ginning up fear and resentment. Groups like Focus on the Family, members of the Mormon Church, and even the national Knights of Columbus have provided significant funding. And it appears their tactics are working – the recent polls show that California voters now favor the Amendment to ban marriage equality, 47 to 42 percent.
It's up to us to make sure the truth gets out, but we can only do that if we raise more money. Right now, their war chest is $10 million deeper than ours – and that gap is growing.
The Human Rights Campaign has been on the ground in California from the beginning of this fight, contributing time and resources, and we're not ready to give up now. In fact, we have already contributed more than $2 million to this fight. I'm guessing you aren't ready to give up either, Drew.
For those of us deeply committed to equality and dignity for LGBT Americans, the time is now – especially now that generous donors Tom Bombardier and John Fowler and HRC will double your gift and make it go twice as far.
Will you stand shoulder-to-shoulder with us today? Every dollar you give right now will be DOUBLED and sent straight to California.
Wake up on November 5th knowing you did everything you could. We have equality, basic human decency and the truth on our side. Now we need you.
Make your donation here.
Some people are gay. Get over it!
Teachers in Britain are getting special training to learn to put the kibosh on homophobic bullying in schools.
Why not in Colorado?
I know some teachers right here who could use exactly this.
The campaign is called Spell It Out and identifies ten steps teachers and administrators can take to combat anti-gay bullying:
1. Acknowledge and identify the problem
2. Develop policies and tell young people about them
3. Promote a positive social environment
4. Address staff training needs
5. Provide information and support
6. Integrate sexual orientation into the curriculum
7. Use outside experience
8. Encourage role models
9. Don't make assumptions
10. Celebrate achievements
Get more information at Get Over It and join their Facebook page here.
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
Obama ahead in Colorado
Sen. Barack Obama leads Sen. John McCain by a nine-point margin in Colorado and also wins in three other battleground states, according to a new poll of likely voters. - via Denver Post
Out on DVD: The Einstein of Sex
Long before the Stonewall riots, Masters and Johnson or even the Kinsey Report, there was Dr. Magnus Hirschfeld. A gay German Jew living in 19th-century Berlin, Hirschfeld didn’t just champion gay rights – he discovered them.
Books: Guidelines for Online Success
Have you ever wondered why your websites didn't quite match up to the success of your competitors or peers? Have you ever looked at other sites and thought: "Why didn't I think of that?" Have you ever spent too much time trying to find basic information that was buried deep in a needlessly complex website? You are certainly not alone and this book aims to change that by bringing together some of the world's most highly acclaimed designers and developers, spanning every continent, all of whom share their knowledge and experience.
GLBT estate planning seminar for anybody who has an estate left
The Human Rights Campaign, the nation’s largest lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender civil rights organization, will hold an estate planning seminar in Portland, Oregon as part of a national effort to help educate individuals on various estate and financial planning issues including drafting of wills, durable power of attorney for health care and finances, living wills, domestic partnership, and the Pension Protection Act. To learn more visit HRC.org.
“Recent events profoundly demonstrate the paramount importance for individuals to have a sound estate plan in place,” said Timothy Mahoney, Director for Estate Planning at HRC. “Whether dealing with a loved one’s medical care decisions or protecting the family’s relationship and the fruits of their life’s work, ensuring now that one’s wishes will be carried out in the future is a wonderful gift to the individual, the family, the friends and the community.”
The Human Rights Campaign, in partnership with HRC’s local Steering Committees, is committed to educating the community on the importance of proper estate planning. The HRC Equality Circle Estate Planning Seminar was developed as one method of fulfilling that mission through the Office of Estate Planning.
Nuts to that
Good news on the stem cell research front? I do support stem cell research, but I'm a little reluctant to turn over the goods myself.
Ladies and gentlemen - well, mostly just the gentlemen, we have a winner
On Friday night at Splash in New York City, San Francisco finalist Carlos won the UnderGear and Instinct Magazine's 'Model Star' contest.
Charmants.com has the exclusive photos and they were gracious enough to share the goods.
Trailblazing Minnesota State Senator Allan Spear Has Died
Allan Spear, who served as a Minnesota State Senator for nearly 30 years, eight of them as president of the Senate, has died at age 71. Spear was the first openly gay state legislator and one of the first openly gay elected officials in the nation.
“By living honestly and authentically, Allan Spear knocked down barriers and had an untold influence on the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community,” said Human Rights Campaign President Joe Solmonese. “Spear’s courageous decision to come out inspired both LGBT and straight Americans, and today, openly LGBT individuals running and winning elected office across the country can walk on the road that he paved.”
Spear’s decision to publicly announce that he was gay made headlines nationally. Today, there are approximately 400 openly LGBT state legislators nationwide.
“Allan Spear served his district, state and country with honor and dignity, and he has a rightful place among the pioneers of the LGBT community,” said Solmonese.
Colorado Stonewall Democrat endorsements
Colorado Stonewall Democrats (CSD) today released its final round of candidate endorsements. The list includes:
US Congress
Rep. Diana DeGette Congressional District 1
Besty Markey Congressional District 4
Colorado State House
Rep. Jeanne Labuda House District 1
Joe Miklosi House District 9
Dickey Lee Hullinghorst House District 10
Important dates:
October 20th
Early Voting begins
October 28th
Last day to Apply for mail-in ballot if it is to be mailed to voter
November 4th ELECTION DAY
Polls open 7 am to 7 pm
All mail-in ballots in by 7pm
Fundraisers:
Joe Rice House District 38th
"Our next fundraiser will be on Sunday, October 19th at 6pm at the home of Dr. Lynn Parry" Please call Nicki Van Veen 720-298-5307
Debates:
Presidential:
October 15th at 7pm MDT (domestic and economic policy)
Senate:
On Thursday, October 16th, please join Mark Udall and other Udall supporters for a pre-debate rally at the Channel 7 Studio in Denver. Channel 7 Debate and Rally Thursday, October 16th at 11:00 AM. RSVP and info at http://www.markudall.com/Channel7Debate
Debate watch party:
*** SPECIAL GUEST JUST ANNOUNCED, Kwamae Spearman,
from Mark Udall's Staff and JARED POLIS will be Speaking.!!
Register here soon as space is limited to this event and it is filling up quickly!
Watch the Final Debate at JR's Bar and Grill with OBAMA supporters. Find out what you can do to help the Obama/Biden ticket win Colorado with only 20 days till the November 4th election. http://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/gs5m9j
Amendment recomendations:
During the general membership meeting we voted to support the following ammendments in accordance with the Colorado State Democratic party platform.
Vote NO on Amendment 46: Prohibition on Discrimination and Preferential Treatment by Colorado Governments
"There shall be no new amendement to the Constitution that infringes on, limits, denies, or circumvents the equal rights or cival rights of citizens." (page 4)
"We support the Employment Employment Non-discrimination Act and Affirmative Action programs that have helped to ensure diversity and equal access to education and economic opportunity by ensuring that all workers will recieve equal pay for work that is comparable in terms of skill, effort, responsiblity, regardless of gender; race; age; disablity; ethnicity; sexual orientation; or religious affiliation" (page 12)
Vote NO on Amendment 47: Prohibition on Certain Conditions of Employment
"We oppose the so called "Right to Work" ballot measure, which would restrict worker's rights to organize and collectively bargain for fair wages and working conditions" (page 12)
Vote NO on Amendment 48: Definition of Person
'We support a woman's right to choose, and strongly oppose the overturning of Rove v. Wade. Reproductive choise is a private matter between a woman and her doctor. It is not the province of any other person, private entity, or the government. Democrats oppose any legislation or initiative that would restrict a woman's right of access to abortion" (page 4)
Vote NO on Amendment 49: Limitation on Public Payroll Deductions
"We oppose any measure that limits public employee's right to participate in a labor union including any measure that limits the deduction of dues and political contributiosn from employee paychecks" (page 12)
"We support the right of workers to pay union and professional membership dues through payroll deductions" (page 12)
Vote Yes on Amendment 50: Limited Gaming
"We support stable education funding that will bring Colorado up to the national funding average. We call on the legislature to maximize education funding through reexamination of state funding limits; fund from severage tax increases; and creative uses of and innovative ways to increase, the revenues generated by the School Trust Lands, While also protecting the environment." (page 8)
"We believe that higher education must be funded at a level that allows it to maintain excellence in its mission" (page 9)
Vote Yes on Amendment 58: Severance Tax
"We support the closing of excessive loopholes and government incentives given to large corporations. Government subsides should only be used to promote the public good" (page 14)
"We call for the elimination of all subsides for fossil fules and for nuclear power" (page 15)
Vote Yes On Amendment 59: Education Funding
"We request simplification of the tax code and revocation of the Tabor amendment." (Page 14)
"We support stable education funding that will bring Colorado up to the national funding average. We call on the legislature to maximize education funding through reexamination of state funding limits; fund from severage tax increases; and creative uses of and innovative ways to increase, the revenues generated by the School Trust Lands, While also protecting the environment." (page 8)
"We believe that higher education must be funded at a level that allows it to maintain excellence in its mission" (page 9)
See all descriptions, summery and analysis at www.coloradobluebook.com.
Monday, October 13, 2008
Squirrel Eating a Tortilla, Part 2
Because you demanded it!
The blogger that brought you Squirrel Eating a Tortilla: The Photo is back with Squirrel Eating a Tortilla Part 2: The Video.
Gay celebrity slideshow on CBS4
Check out this fun slide show of 59 gay celebrities, courtesy of Denver's CBS4 (KCNC Channel 4). I'm not on it yet, but there's always next year. Kudos to Channel 4 for making it available.
This is why from now on it's Beer Bust or nothing
This is why my dates are so expensive--from now on, it's Beer Bustor nothing. And speaking of Beer Bust, did you guys see all the hot out of town guys there this past Sunday? The rodeo was very very good to us. - via KMGH Denver
Pet of the Week: Beau
Hello! My name is Beau, and I was found as a happy-go-lucky stray. No one came to claim me (WHY?) so I am waiting here for my great new forever home.
I'm such a nice boy who is charismatic, loving, and very gentle. I don't know much about this great world, but I'm eagerly waiting to find out! I'm sweet, sensitive, and a great dog.
Puppy Kindergarten is required for my adoption. I will do VERY well, but I need folks who will help boost my self-confidence! I aim to please, so I will be an excellent companion for a home that is gentle, loving, and consistent.
Please ask to meet me! I am BEYOND handsome, and have all the potential in the world. For more information visit MaxFund.org
Why was Matthew different?
Why did Matthew Shepard's murder get so much attention, when other murders in the community, including gay people of color, trans people, and other communities that are marginalized even within the GLBT community, do not? Cathy Renna explains as we remember Shepard 10 years after his murder.
Victory Fund backs the GLBT 100
As of Tuesday of last week, the Gay & Lesbian Victory Fund has backed 100 candidates in this year's elections including Mark Ferrandino, Jared Polis and Sue Schafer from Colorado. - via the Washington Blade
Get OUT the vote in Colorado Springs
This year's election is crucial. From county commissions to the president, and from tax increases to proposals that could ban contraception, every vote counts. What's more, this year's ballot in Colorado is filled with initiatives and proposals - so much can get confusing.
This year, Colorado Springs' LGBT organizations are coming together to host an LGBT Civic Engagement Party on Wednesday, October 15th from 6:00-8:00 at the Gay & Lesbian Fund for Colorado Building, 315 E. Costilla.
The event will feature:
* A review of candidate surveys
* A review of the initiatives and proposals
* And an overview of the sample ballot
Hear input on issues from organizations like the Pride Center, S-CAP, Inside/Out, MCC, El Paso County Stonewall Democrats and more. In addition, there will be food and drinks and a time when you can fill out your ballot among friends and community.
Two-Gun Sally Kern says gay sex is "a danger to life"
Oklahoma state legislator Sally Kern, famous for two incidents of bringing a loaded gun into the Oklahoma State Capitol, says gay sex is "a danger to life".
No it's not.
I've been doing it for about 20 years and I'm healthy as a horse.
But bringing loaded guns into a State Capitol building?
Now that sounds dangerous.
She's kind of wild-eyed, isn't she?
Homophobia in schools is still a problem
Nine in ten GLBT teens experienced verbal harassment and discrimination this past school year and almost half have been physically harassed due to their sexual orientation, claims a new study by GLSEN, the Gay, Lesbian, Straight Education Network. But it's not just GLBT kids and it's not just in some faraway location. Bullies use "gay" as the ultimate putdown, and it's even used against straight kids--and right here in Colorado. I'm in the middle of a battle right now with a particular school system that refuses to intervene in a serious case of bullying, and if it continues, believe me, you'll be hearing more about it.
For help dealing with a bullying situation in school check out BullyPolice.org.
Cold enough for ya?
At a loss for conversation?
WunderGround.com is a great online service that will tell you everything you need to know about the weather in Colorado (or anyplace else you might want to go). They're not really gay--they just fool you with their rainbow logo. But as I always say, if you know the weather forecast, you can make small talk anywhere.
And, no offense, but some of you can use the help.
Free underwear from Otter and Instinct magazine
Get a Pair of Otter Y-front Boy Briefs free at OtterFashion.com.
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Dogs are better than boyfriends
Even my detractors know how much I love animals--especially dogs. I have two who are pretty much this happy to see me every time I come in the door. This has got to be the most heartwarming video ever--at least for dog lovers like me.
Rethinking AIDS vaccines
A worldwide AIDS vaccine conference takes place this week with a focus on rethinking methods of combating AIDS after several clinical trials have proven disappointing.
Creating Change in Denver
GLAAD is proud to announce its partnership with the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force Academy for Leadership in Action at this year's National Conference on LGBT Equality: Creating Change. This year's conference is taking place in the "mile high" city, Denver, Colorado, from January 28 through February 1, 2009. We cordially invite you to join us at the conference and to be a part of this incredibly exciting skill building and learning opportunity.
Creating Change is 21 years old this year, and it is still the largest and most diverse gathering of the LGBT movement. GLAAD is excited about bringing its media training expertise, along with its most seasoned trainers, to the Academy for Leadership and Action. GLAAD will contribute to a series of more than thirty courses offered through the Academy – all of which will provide an important opportunity to build the sustainability, leadership and skills of LGBT and allied activists and organizations.
"GLAAD is proud to partner with the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force again this year and provide media advocacy workshops and skills-building opportunities for the movement," said Rashad Robinson, Senior Director of Media Programs for GLAAD. "Creating Change is one of the most important annual events in the movement. It's a time for us to celebrate our successes, evaluate our work and build our skills to continue moving forward."
Please join us for this dynamic and visionary gathering of leaders and activists in Denver. Together we can continue to increase the vibrancy of the LGBT and allied movements by sharing our skills, knowledge and collective passion for social justice. You really don't want to miss this!
To learn more about Creating Change and the Academy and to register for this year's exciting conference, go to www.creatingchange.org and www.thetaskforce.org/our_work/academy.
Obama releases statement on the 10th anniversary of Matthew Shepard murder
He's far from perfect when it comes to GLBT issues but at least Barack Obama had the class to issue a statement about Matthew Shepard on the tenth anniversary of his murder.
Friday, October 10, 2008
Connecticut just became the third state to recognize gay marriage
Today, the Connecticut Supreme Court reversed a lower court decision and ruled that same-sex couples enjoy the same right to marry as different-sex couples under the state constitution. The court ruled that it is a violation of the state constitution to deny gay and lesbian couples the right to marry, and that it is not enough to provide rights to gay and lesbian couples through a separate system of civil unions.
“This is a very proud day for Connecticut and a very proud day for every American who believes in the promise of equal rights for all,” said Human Rights Campaign President Joe Solmonese. “The Connecticut Supreme Court recognized that gay and lesbian couples who form committed relationships and loving families deserve the same level of respect afforded to straight couples. The court did its job by making clear that the state constitution guarantees the same rights and protections for everyone. This decision strengthens Connecticut families. We congratulate and commend the Gay and Lesbian Advocates and Defenders (GLAD), Love Makes a Family, which worked closely with GLAD on this case, and, of course, the courageous plaintiff couples and their families who looked to the courts to vindicate their rights.”
On August 24, 2004, GLAD, working closely with Love Makes a Family, filed the Kerrigan & Mock v. Connecticut Dept. of Public Health case in Connecticut state court on behalf of seven same-sex couples (an eighth couple later joined the case). The plaintiffs argued that denying same-sex couples the right to marry violates the state constitution's guarantees of equal protection of law and due process.
On July 12, 2006, the Connecticut Superior Court ruled in favor of the state, denying same-sex couples the right to marry under the state constitution, and relying heavily on the fact that Connecticut, since 2005, has permitted same-sex couples to enter into civil unions.
A growing number of states are providing relationship recognition to gay and lesbian couples. Connecticut joins Massachusetts and California as the third state to recognize civil marriage for gay and lesbian couples under state law. Four other states and Washington, D.C. provide same-sex couples with access to all the state level benefits and responsibilities of marriage, through either civil unions or domestic partnerships. Three other states provide gay and lesbian couples with at least some of the basic benefits and protections made available to married heterosexual couples. New York recognizes marriages by gay and lesbian couples validly entered into outside of New York. Gay and lesbian couples do not receive any federal rights and benefits.
Key results from the ruling:
Gay and lesbian couples in Connecticut will now be able to obtain a civil marriage license and receive the same respect and protections afforded to all married couples.
Churches and other religious institutions will not have to recognize or perform ceremonies for these civil marriages. This ruling is not about religion; it’s about the civil responsibilities and protections afforded through a government-issued civil marriage license.
The court’s decision does not entitle gay and lesbian couples in Connecticut to receive the federal rights and benefits extended to married couples. The so-called federal Defense of Marriage Act discriminates against gay and lesbian married couples by denying them over 1,000 federal rights and benefits, including social security benefits, the ability to file a joint federal tax return, and the right to petition for a spouse to immigrate.
Other states may legally recognize the civil marriages of same-sex couples performed in Connecticut in the same way they recognize out-of-state marriages by different-sex couples.
The court’s decision today does not change the law in any other state, or federal law. We will continue to fight for marriage equality across the country.
The Human Rights Campaign signed onto an amicus or “friend of the court” brief in the Kerrigan case to support and further explain the case for extending civil marriage rights to same-sex couples under the state constitution. A number of other civil rights organizations, religious groups, child welfare experts, law professors, family and legal historians and others also either signed or filed briefs of their own in favor of extending civil marriage laws to same-sex couples.
Noises Off: An interview with Set Designer Vicki Smith
In the show within a show called ‘Noises Off’ a troop of actors perform a show called ‘Nothing On’ and so the set for ‘Noises Off’ is actually the set of ‘Nothing On’.
Vicki Smith, Set Designer for ‘Noises Off’ at The Denver Center, had to pack a lot of design into not a lot of space but she did it with room to spare.
Two inches, to be exact.
I spoke with Smith on the day of the show’s dress rehearsal and she sounded off about 'Noises Off'. Read what she had to say after the jump.
Drew: What are the challenges of designing the set for ‘Noises Off’.
Vicki: Because this is the classic door-slamming farce we’ve got all these doors, actually seven doors, a window, and a curtained entrance, and they all have to be in a very specific order. I’s very inflexible and it was meant to be in a proscenium space which this isn’t. I’ve put in a phony proscenium here but the problem here is that we don’t have much depth at all so trying to get this unit to revolve, well, it’s very tigh. We have maybe two inches of space before we hit the back wall when this turns.
Given my druthers, I would want more parts of the set on the turntable so that people wouldn’t have to pick up and carry things but I just cannot do that here. There simply isn’t enough room and the doors can’t flex so they are where they are.
How long has this project taken for you from start to finish?
I think we met on this in March for the first time and I had my first sketches to the director in April and a model of it in May and then I’ll be leaving here in four days so this has been a long project.
How did you become a professional set designer?
I was an artist at first, a sculptor, and I wasn’t making any money. I’m one of the few people in the world who went into theatre to make money. Most people do not. But I had been living in Seattle at the time and working with a film director who did film animation and I met a bunch of people from the theatre program and I thought maybe this is for me. So that’s how I got into it.
For those of us who don’t know what a set designer does can you give it to us in a nutshell?
Well the way the whole thing looks is completely my doing. The ground plan is what’s given to you to let you know that you need to have the certain door arrangement on two levels but beyond that you can kind of do with it what you will.
How would you describe the set you’ve come up with for this production of ‘Noises Off’?
It’s a 16th century building that’s been ‘extensively remodeled’ and we wanted this kind of Tudor style with the cross timber and that’s a fairly easy style to research. I have a number of books on English architecture that show you both the paneling and the cross timbering. The specifics of I wanted to do was not get so pushed by the technical demands that it didn’t still look like a house and didn’t still have furniture and things on the wall. I did a bunch of English countryside cliches - dog pictures, antlers, fish on the wall, big flowered chintz. That’s english country style and I just did ‘em all.”
Were you influenced at all by the movie version of ‘Noises Off’?
I had never seen the movie or a stage version before but it is certainly the most complicated script I’ve ever read because in Act 2 it rotates and now we’re backstage. 
And backstage we have the classic backstage construction - dumpy. Through the window you see the actors performing theirplay and a million things going wrong backstage even though everybody is trying to be quiet and hushing each other so in the script there are a a series of lines that are the play within the play and there are lots of stage directions and there’s as much of that as there are in the script and I’ve never seen a script like that before. I just read it and thought ‘oh my goodness that is extraordinary’. Why would a director want to do that to himself? It’s so difficult.
What’s the difference between good set design and bad set design?
Um, boy that’s a hard question to answer.
You should generally be coming away with the whole picture because the first thing is to tell the story and scripts vary wildly about location and specificity and what the director wants to say and you need to be able to tie that to the script and augment it, not distract from it.
'Noises Off' opens tonight at The Denver Center in The Stage Theatre. For tickets or more information visit www.DenverCenter.org.
Taking rights away?
Okay, it's not happening in Colorado, but it did, and we can remember how it felt. New polls in California and Florida are showing that anti-gay marriage amendments in those states are gaining supporters. And while these state constitutional amendments are evil no matter where they are passed, it's worse for California because marriage is now legal in that state. I even know people from Colorado who have gone to California to get married. So if Proposition 8 passes, not only will same-sex marriage be banned by the California Constitution (like it is in Colorado), but it will actually take away rights that have already been granted! If TAKING AWAY rights doesn't scare you, then, as the old saying goes, you're just not paying attention.
Check out No On Prop. 8's new ad below:
And here's what the Thorons have to say about the matter:
Thursday, October 9, 2008
A letter from Judy Shepard
Hello my friends,
It’s hard to believe that it has been ten years since Matthew’s death. So much has changed yet so much remains the same. I want to thank all of you for your unwavering support for the Foundation. I know that you understand our work is far from over. I don’t mean the work of the Foundation exclusively I mean the work we all need to do at a personal level. We need to continue talking to our friends, families and co-workers. Unless we are honest about who we are and are able to share with those who love us what our lives are like, they will not know how to help us. We need those allies in this struggle to achieve equality across the board to realize all of our civil rights.
Great advances have been made in changing people’s attitudes and eliminating ignorance about the gay community even in my wonderful state of Wyoming. At least I thought so, until I read the readers’ comments following an article about the ten year observance of Matt’s death in the Cheyenne, Wyoming newspaper.
I understand that the readers who take the time to write in are doing so because they absolutely disagree with the article and those who do agree won’t bother to write comments. However, it brought home to me how much work is left to do to make the world an accepting place. The level of ignorance is astounding. The continuing belief that what happened to Matt was not a hate crime and the notion that ‘special people shouldn’t have special rights’, is beyond my comprehension. The level of ‘hate’ is frightening.
The Foundation staff is very committed to doing all they can to ensure the message - ‘erase hate’ - is one that is known to the community and its allies as well as those who are trying learn more about the Foundation and the LGBT community at large. It is ignorance that ultimately results in hate and that may escalate into physical violence. The only way to combat the ignorance is to educate and tell our stories.
We are all aware of how important this election cycle is to all of us. Please take the time to know the issues and what is at stake for the LGBT community. Share your stories with those who care about you. It is the only way they will know how to vote to support you.
The privilege of having the right to vote is also a responsibility. We must remember that we are not voting only for a new President but also for representatives at the local, county, state and national level. Please vote and encourage everyone you know to vote. Apathy is unacceptable. We are at a cross roads in the movement and we need to show our support for those who support the LGBT community. We are all hoping the next ten years will be our time.
If you wish to learn more about the Foundation and the work we are doing now, please visit www.MatthewShepard.org or www.MatthewsPlace.com
Thank you again for being a part of what we do.
Sincerely,
Judy Shepard
Sarah Palin sez: World Farm Animals Day? You betcha! National Coming Out Day? No way, Jose!
Gov. Palin has declined to issue a formal proclamation recognizing “National Coming Out Day,” in Alaska. Heartened by the Gov. Palin’s positive comments about gays and lesbians in the Vice Presidential Debate, Alaskans Together submitted a formal request to acknowledge the day, which is observed on Oct. 11 internationally by members of LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgendered) communities and supporters.
“But I also want to clarify, if there’s any kind of suggestion at all from my answer that I would be anything but tolerant of adults in America choosing their partners, choosing relationships that they deem best for themselves, you know…,” said Gov. Palin during the debate.
“Governor Palin called for ‘tolerance’, and we hoped she’d show that type of leadership as Governor with this proclamation,” said Alaskans Together President Marsha Buck. “Coming out is a difficult and deserves recognition.”
So far in October 2008 Governor Palin has issued proclamations for: “Careers in Construction Week,” “10th Annual Christian Heritage Week,” “Biomedical Technician Week,” “Alaska Taiwan Friendship Week,” “World Farm Animals Day,” “Breastfeeding Awareness Month,” and “Grand Opening of Rilke Schule Day.”
“We were asking for the Governor to acknowledge and recognize the dignity of openly-gay Alaskans. We weren’t asking for a policy position, beyond simple acknowledgement.” Buck said.
Has New Life Church turned over a new leaf?
Now that Ted Haggard--harangued, harassed, and humiliated by his homosexual hijinks--has left the New Life Church in Colorado Springs, is it becoming ... well, almost liberal? Not quite, but it seems that the church's current pastor, Brady Boyd(left), is not nearly as concerned about the sin of homosexuality as he is about the economy, the environment, and the poor. Is the decade of Dobson finally coming to a close in Colorado? That remains to be seen, but we can only hope.
Chicago's gay high school
Chicago Public Schools leaders recently set the wheels in motion to create the cities first gay high school.
Final approval is expected later this month.
Arresting development
Police tell man in custody this his girlfriend is transsexual.
In other news, transsexual beaten after boyfriend finds out from police that she is transsexual.
Books: Taschen's Paris
This book combines all of Angelika Taschen's recommendations for Paris hotels, shops, restaurants, cafes, and bars into one volume, ensuring visitors a wealth of ideas and a guarantee that their Parisian sojourn will never have a dull moment. From the ultra-hot Colette fashion concept store to Tom Ford's secret hideaway to Hemingway's favorite brasserie, all of the best insider tips are gathered together between these covers so that when you hop out from under yours, you'll have plenty of exciting things on your agenda.
OUT@Curious
A unique and fun evening of entertainment, OUT@Curious brings together the LGBT community to support Curious Theatre Company while having a fabulous night out. Pre-show cocktails and hors d’oeuvres reception begins at 6:30p.m. with a pre-show performance featuring NuClia Waste at 7:30p.m.. The curtains will raise at 8:00p.m. and the post-show bash at Santa Fe Tequila Company will be the perfect way to cap off the night.
Tickets for OUT@Curious ate $50 before October 31 and $55 after October and like my grandmother Princess Manyflowers, the oldest living Matinnecock Indian, used to say during games of Monopoly, "$5 is $5."
And she was right.
Backstage at Noises Off
I haven't been backstage in a theatre since I played the title role in my high school production of "The Death and Life of Sneaky Fitch" so when the Denver Center's Director of Marketing Chris Wiger offered me the chance to come to The Stage Theatre and get a sneak peak backstage at Vicki Smith's amazing set design for 'Noises Off', I jumped at the chance to check it out.
One million pictures after the jump.
Part of backstage that revolves to the front of the stage.
Look out below.
Very realistic looking garden set.
The burglar comes through here.
Vines.
The view from the balcony.
Another view from the balcony.
Prop table.
Fake prop table.
Fake stage directions.
Stripes.
Tchotchkes. 
Plaid.
Manly stuff.
Upstairs bathroom.
Lovely drapes.
The phone really gets a workout in this production.
As do the stairs.
Bullies
'Bullies.'
'Bullying.'
The words sound so quaint.
Other words to describe the same behaviors as bullying don't have nearly the same innocuous ring.
Harassment.
Assault.
Sexual Assault.
Degradation.
Those words describe some of the things I've been dealing with on behalf of my nephew who is being bullied at his school.
The situation is getting worse and worse.
Dealing with the school administration is a challenging and frustrating situation to say the least.
The school's Director and teachers have been teaching me an all-new set of A,B,Cs.
A is for Always deny there's a problem.
B is for Blame the victim.
C is for Close ranks and attack.