Jack Mackenroth is still sexay

Reality TV star, HIV/AIDS awareness advocate, fashion designer and Olympic swimmer Jack Mackenroth recently did a fabulously flesh-baring photo-shoot with photographer Rick Day.

Says Day, "It was a pleasure working with Jack. His beauty and professionalism made my job a hell of lot easier and quite enjoyable. I wish him all the best in all his future ventures and I will be looking forward to our paths crossing again in the future."

You and me both, Rick Day. You and me both.

It Gets Better: Kirk Montgomery

My buddy Kirk Montgomery of Denver's KUSA-Channel 9 has added his voice to Dan Savage's It Gets Better project in honor of the recent anti-gay bullying suicides. The video also shouts out suicide prevention resources like the amazing Rainbow Alley as well as an organization I wasn't familiar with called Second Wind. Kirk's awesome and I'm sure his message will provide many young gays with the encouragement they need to know that it does, indeed, get better. Thanks, Kirk!

Gayest Guiness Book World Record attempt ever?

This Sunday in West Hollywood over half a million visitors will attempt what might be the gayest Guiness Book World Record attempt ever.

 At 10:45pm, six stages will simultaneously coordinate 500,000 people doing “The Time Warp” from 'The Rocky Horror Picture Show' on Santa Monica Blvd., which will be shut down for the 2010 West Hollywood Halloween Street Party & Carnaval. This year’s carnival, the largest Halloween street party in the United States, is celebrating the 35th Anniversary of the Rocky Horror Picture Show. Hailed as the king of midnight cult films and in distribution longer than any film in the history of motion pictures, The Rocky Horror Picture Show is still in limited release 35 years after production!

West Hollywood's Santa Monica Blvd. is completely closed for the evening and transformed into a large masquerade ball with large-scale custom decorations framing the food vendor booths and stages. Given West Hollywood's tolerant cultural history, its massive numbers of gay visitors, and its huge actor, model, and celebrity population, this particular evening explodes in creativity and expression. The warmer the weather, the more titillating the costumes.
 

In recent years Gay West Hollywood has earned gay mecca status with 21 gay gars, 20 gay shops, and 69 restaurants along a walkable 1.5 mile strip of Santa Monica Blvd. Incorporated in 1984 and $34 million dollars of public works revitalization later, West Hollywood now shines as the centerpiece of the nation’s most gay populated metropolitan area where the estimated 2.5 million gay residents of Los Angeles, Orange, Ventura, Riverside, and San Bernardino counties come to congregate for gay bar hopping, gay clubs, the Gay Pride and Festival and, of course, the Gay Halloween Street Party.

A few words from John Berry, highest ranking gay in the Obama administration

Honorable John Berry was appointed last year by President Obama to serve as the Director of the Office of Personnel Management, and today is considered the highest ranking openly LGBT appointee serving in this Administration. He has written and made available the following op/ed article about the current state of the gay equality movement. Please note, the views shared here are considered personal rather than official:

Speak Up, Speak Out for Our Rights
by John Berry

Right now, the LGBT equality movement is filled with conflicting emotions, intense passions, and nervous energy – just like the rest of the country. We are not alone in our angst.

When Dr. Frank Kameny (pictured below) was fired from his position as an astronomer with the U.S. Army Map Service in 1957 because of his sexual orientation, it was the policy of our government to deny any openly-gay American Federal employment. “The homosexual is a security risk… [we] will not permit their employment,” wrote one official. Of course, today we know how wrong our government was. It seems silly to suggest otherwise.

I was honored to offer Dr. Kameny a formal apology on behalf of the United States Government last year. Frank stated that even he did not think he would see the day when an openly-gay man would head the same agency which participated in firing him more than 50 years ago. “It’s as if we’ve gone from sea level to 18,000 feet,” he told me in conversation. “The summit is in sight. We’ve just got another thousand feet to go.”

And we have taken many steps towards creating that more perfect union. But in the midst of so much progress, the recent suicides by LGBT youth are especially painful. As sadly, Frank noted, the summit is now within our reach. What an amazing time we live in and how fortunate younger Americans are to be witnesses and participants in the final steps to secure our full civil rights. But too many don’t fully appreciate that amazing reality.

People like Dr. Kameny, pillars of the modern movement for equality, have brought us this far. But as any climber will tell you, the last thousand feet are the most treacherous. After years of struggle, exhaustion can set in. So close to our goal, the air is thin, our bodies tired, the winds of opposition whip increasingly around us.

But we know from history that this same steep peak – as frustrating and painful as it is to reach - has been conquered before. We tend to look back on history with rose-tinted glasses. But freedom and equality in America have never come easy. We forget that many American colonists saw the pursuit of liberty by our Founding Fathers as treason and would have cheered their hanging.

Recall when half the country – half the country – used any and all means to defend the institution of slavery. Susan B. Anthony was widely mocked in her time. The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was martyred. Even the schoolchildren of the Little Rock Nine were spat upon and shouted down as they approached their goal. Every day, we are making progress towards securing the rights and freedoms that belong to all of us.

In under two years, President Obama and his record number of LGBT appointees have accomplished so much for LGBT Americans. His and Congress’s historic achievement of securing health care reform finally cements the most important protections for those in our community who need them most – especially those living with HIV and AIDS.

Hospital visitation rights for all Americans, expanded benefits for the same-sex domestic partners of Federal workers, enactment of the hate crimes law, increased coverage for those living with HIV/AIDS, Federal support for LGBT community-based organizations, anti-bullying programs enacted in schools, support for our aging LGBT population, and so much more.

These are real, concrete achievements that are saving and improving the lives of countless LGBT Americans right now.

I realize that this subtle – but dramatic – change is hard to appreciate when full equality is in sight. It’s understandable. I’m not taking my eyes off the goal or asking you to. Indeed, the President is the first to say that change hasn’t come fast enough. But he has called on all of us to charge full speed ahead.

The Tree of Liberty grows only by adding rings. From the Revolution to the Civil War, to women’s suffrage, the Civil Rights Movement, and onward, our entire nation has been enriched by every added ring. Now is our time to complete our ring.

All Administration officials, me included, are accountable to that goal; to the principles upon which our Republic was founded – liberty and justice for all.

We will not rest until discriminatory laws like Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell and the Defense of Marriage Act are ended once and for all. And because no one should be denied a job because of discrimination, a fully inclusive Employment Non-Discrimination Act must be enacted as well.

So hold us to account. Let us know when we’re right, be the wind in our sails when our momentum flags, and pull us back to the path when we go astray. But whatever you do, don’t turn away. Don’t give up. Don’t relent. Educate yourself, educate others, and fight for your beliefs. Speak up and speak out.

Our path forward is steep, but clear. Just like those who have gone before us, our mettle is being tested in this moment. History is watching and we will be judged by what we do right now. But what an incredible time to be alive! As Teddy Roosevelt said, “Aggressive fighting for the right is the noblest sport the world affords.” I couldn’t agree more. Bully! - via Philadelphia Gay News

Angra - Lease of Life

I shouldn't like this - Brazilian power metal ballads have never really been my thing - but for some reason I'm kind of digging this today.

Bennet vs. Buck - Tightest race in the nation?

Writing for 5280.com about the Bennet vs. Buck Senate race, Michael de Yoanna says:

"(Bennet) needs everyone to vote because his race is the tightest in the nation (via The Gazette).

Indeed, poll after poll has shown the two running very closely. The latest was commissioned by political race-horse website ColoradoPols, which found 43 percent of likely voters leaning toward Bennet and 42 percent toward Republican Buck."

Remember, Ken Buck is the guy who recently went on 'Meet the Press' and compared gays to alcoholics. Nice. Be sure to get OUT and vote, guys!

GLBT History Month: Rufus Wainwright

Known for his unique style and daring artistic endeavors, Rufus Wainwright is one of the most accomplished singer/songwriters of his generation. He has produced six albums and is the recipient of two Juno Awards and five GLAAD Media Awards.

Andrew Sullivan: We've already had a gay president

Andrew Sullivan makes the case for Abraham Lincoln's gayness. So maybe Obama's presidency is the second gayest in history.

Obama claims his presidency is the most gay supportive in history

President Barack Obama told progressive bloggers his attitude about marriage equality may be evolving.

"I think that it is an issue that I wrestle with and think about because I have a whole host of friends who are in gay partnerships. I have staff members who are in committed, monogamous relationships, who are raising children, who are wonderful parents. And I care about them deeply," Obama said.

Obama also rejected the idea that the LGBT community should be disappointed in his administration, listing accomplishments that he said make his presidency the most LGBT-supportive in history.

Do you believe him?

David Pakman is not feeling Clint McCance's lame apology

And neither am I. - via Pam's House Blend

Something we can all support: Less homophobia = more straight guys kissing each other

A new study shows that lots of straight (British) dudes are comfortable kissing each other for one reason or another. That's sweet. And kind of hot.

One more reason to love Betty White

Betty White's all for gay marriage in the new issue of Parade magazine.

There's a lot at stake for the gay community in the upcoming elections

Analyses of several close congressional races find plenty of reasons for the gay community to pay attention to election returns this Tuesday night. Several Republican candidates, like Ken Buck here in Colorado (see video above in which he compares homosexuality to alcoholism), hold stark anti-LGBT views, analysts note. But gay conservatives contend congressional Democrats will have only themselves to blame if opponents of LGBT civil rights gain the upper hand on election night.

Whoo-hoo! Vicious anti-gay Arkansas school board member resigns on Anderson Cooper 360

Good news, everyone! The vicious Clint McCance, appearing on 'Anderson Cooper 360' on CNN last night, announced that he will resign from the Midland School Board. The controversy erupted when McCance unleashed a disgusting anti-gay tirade on Facebook in response to a rash of bullying-related suicides. 

Human Rights Campaign President Joe Solmonese issued the following statement:
"Clint McCance's decision to resign from the school board is a step forward for the community he represents. We are hopeful the wounds that were inflicted will soon be healed," said HRC President Joe Solmonese. "What remains troubling is that Mr. McCance focused his regret on particular word choices not the animus behind those words. We hope he will take this time to reflect not only on the language he used but on what he can do to make the lives of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning young people better."

More information at: http://www.hrcbackstory.org/2010/10/arkansas-school-board-hater-update-new-action-and-newspaper-ad/.

MileHighGayGuy Advertiser Shout Out: Planned Parenthood of the Rocky Mountains

Planned Parenthood of the Rocky Mountains provides services for gay men in the Denver metro area including STD Testing and Treatment, HIV Testing and Education, Prostate and Testicular Cancer Screenings, and Education and Referrals.

Follow MileHighGayGuy on Facebook and Twitter

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Thanks much!

Katy Perry dedicates new video to The It Gets Better Project

Katy dedicated the video to the It Gets Better Project on Twitter this morning by tweeting: "I am officially dedicating my new video to #itgetsbetter, because everyone has the spark to be a FIREWORK."

MileHighGayGuy Gift Guide: Fable III

Wondering what to get the gay gamer on your holiday shopping list? Fable III offers a number of opportunities to woo same-sex love interests or even adopt children with your homo SO.

It Gets Better: Kathleen Sebelius

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services today released a video message from Secretary Kathleen Sebelius telling lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) youth suffering from bullying and intolerance that they are not alone, and that it will get better.

The Secretary’s message is in response to the recent news of young people taking their own lives after being victims of bullying because they were gay or believed to be gay.

As Secretary Sebelius says in her video message, “Don’t let the bullies win and don’t let them cut your future short. We need you and your talents, and whether you feel it or not, lots of people do care about you. I promise you, it gets better. Today may seem dark. But tomorrow will be brighter. And so will the day after that….And the day after that. So be strong, be safe, and know that you are loved and supported.”

Resources for adults and children about bullying and how to stop it, can be found at: www.BullyingInfo.org

Arkansas School Superintendent Replies to anti-gay school board member

The Human Rights Campaign, the nation’s largest lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) civil rights organization, today released the letter written by Midland School District Superintendent Dean Stanley to R. Anthony Turner, the whistleblower who unearthed the Facebook posts made by school board member Clint McCance. Turner is a 1998 graduate of Midland High School. The letter, which was emailed by Stanley to Turner at 2:45pm EDT today, was in response to Turner’s letter to school district officials bringing this matter to their attention on October 22.

Stanley repudiates McCance’s comments and writes that McCance “does not represent the board or speak for the board when he posts on his facebook page… Those views are not consistent with the views of the school district or the school board.”

A Facebook page calling for McCance’s resignation has swelled to over 52,000 “likes.” The page is at: www.facebook.com/pages/Fire-Clint-McCance/170421922968484. Go there real quick and add yourself!

HRC has placed a full page ad in tomorrow’s Batesville Guard – the local newspaper in Independence County – calling on McCance to resign. The ad can be seen here: www.hrcbackstory.org/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/FireMcCance_ad-BatesvilleGuard.pdf.

Earlier today, HRC president Joe Solmonese also sent a letter to McCance asking him to resign for the sake of the children in his community. A letter was also sent to McCance’s colleagues on the school board asking them to join the tens of thousands of people across the country calling for McCance’s resignation.

McCance was re-elected in September to a four year term and there is currently no recall process for elected school board members in Arkansas.


Text of the email and letter sent by Midland School Superintendent Dean Stanley to R. Anthony Turner appears after the jump:

Anthony,

I have been out of state but wanted to let you know that I need to respond to the letter you sent me this past week. We obviously have been dealing with the situation for the last few days and wanted to share with you a letter regarding this situation.
Dear Mr. Turner:

I am writing in response to your letter in which you commented on a board member’s facebook posting. I am sorry to make your acquaintance under these circumstances but proud Midland was your alma mater and that you care enough about young students to write.

I cannot respond for Mr. McCance. While he is a school board member, he does not represent the board or speak for the board when he posts on his facebook page. I can only assume the views he expressed on facebook, about which you wrote, are his personal views. Those views are not consistent with the views of the school district or the school board. Our board makes known its position on issues by adopting policies and the board has not and would not adopt policies similar to the postings you referenced on facebook. The board’s official position, expressed in our mission statement, is that every student is someone special.

As administrator of the school district I have an obligation to care for every student, an obligation to every parent to care for every son or daughter. Every student life is equally valuable without regard to race, sex, or sexual orientation, religious belief or affiliation, without regard to disability, ability, performance or non performance, or whether they want an education or don’t. Everyone really is someone special and deserves to be treated with care and respect.

In reference to the remedies you suggested in response to Mr. McCance’s postings, there is no recall of school board members. The ballot box is the remedy for patrons that are dissatisfied with a school board member. I can certainly suggest to the board that it affirm its commitment to all students as that commitment is expressed in its mission statement and affirm its commitment to eradicating bullying.

Sincerely,

Dean Stanley
Midland School District - Superintendent 


Philadelphia to host this year's United States National Mr. Gay Competition

It's just been announced that Philadelphia will serve as host city for this year's United States National Mr. Gay Competition. Foundation President and Mr. Gay Founder, Don Spradlin, will collaborate with my pal Bruce Yelk and Nightlifegay.com, Philadelphia's premier LGBT event promotions company, to coordinate and execute this year's Competition. Scheduled to take place on November 13th, 2010 at Voyeur Nightclub (1221 St. James St), the United States National Mr. Gay Competition is an exciting addition to Philadelphia's calendar of special LGBT events.

Due to the way in which the local LGBT community has embraced and supported Philadelphia Mr. Gay over the last several years, in addition to the city's rising profile as an acclaimed destination for LGBT leisure travelers, the Noble Beast Foundation's Board was thrilled to award their contest to the City of Brotherly Love and Sisterly Affection. This marks the first time that the United States National Mr. Gay Competition will take place on the east coast.

Mr. Gay United States brings together 20 US Finalists representing the nation's most prestigious cities, a wide variety of celebrity judges, performers, and hosts, as well as spectators from all around the country. A series of competitive categories and performances will culminate in the naming of the 2011 US Mr. Gay titleholder. The winner of this Competition will go on to compete as the US Delegate to the International Mr. Gay (IMG) Competition Grand Finale in December. The IMG Competition is the largest and oldest running international contest to select an ambassador or spokesman to support the mission of the event's beneficiary, the Noble Beast Foundation.

Photos and Profiles of all Finalists and event details are listed online at www.MrGayCompetition.com and it's also just been announced that Logo is coordinating a U.S. Mr. Gay Sweepstakes, details at http://www.tripoutgaytravel.com/sweepstakes-mr-gay/, which includes round-trip airfare for you and a guest on Southwest Airlines, two-nights at the Hotel Palomar Philadelphia, VIP tickets to the U.S. Mr. Gay competition and VIP access to the meet-and-greet event attended by all of the contestants. 

Thanksgiving Training Camp in Crested Butte, Colo.

Attention, skiers - Gunnison-Crested Butte has been getting some good snow, approximately a foot at the ski area in the last two days.

And you can work off the turkey dinners and start the Nordic season off right with fun, informative cross-country ski clinics and activities at the Crested Butte Nordic Council’s annual Thanksgiving Training Camp on Nov. 26 – 27. Skate and classic Nordic skiing and racing clinics for various levels will be offered by professional instructors, including three-time Olympian Ingrid Butts, Masters Nordic World Champion Murray Banks, and Ross Matlock, a PSIA Nordic and Telemark examiner.

With all clinics held at elevations in excess of 8,800 feet, camp participants of all levels are sure to get a jump on conditioning for a successful season of competitive racing, recreational touring or fun winter exercise. A silent auction/gourmet dinner, wax clinic, active isolated stretching class, and movie night featuring the film “Fire on the Mountain” that tells the story of America’s 10th Mountain Division also are part of the fun.

Beginner clinics are $40 and intermediate and advanced clinics are $50. Clinics are designed to enhance and improve skills and are limited to approximately 12 people in each, so register early. For more information or to sign up, call Crested Butte Nordic Center at 970-349-1707 or visit www.cbnordic.org.

Colorado Ski Season kicks off this week

Colorado kicked off ski season this week with the opening of its first ski areas and a winter storm that blanketed much of the state with its legendary powder. To celebrate the start of winter, many of our towns and resorts are offering enticing early season lodging and activity packages with prices starting as low as $50 per person, per night.

• Southwest Airlines Skis Fly FreeTM: Book your flight with Southwest Airlines and your skis or snowboard fly free to Colorado.  www.southwest.com
  
• Crested Butte 50/50 Package: In celebration of 50 years of skiing and riding, Crested Butte Mountain Resort is offering 50 percent off lift tickets and $50 per person, per night for lodging. Valid November 23 through December 16, 2010. 800-600-2803; www.skicb.com 
  
  
• Glenwood Early Bird Ski, Swim & Stay Package: Ski at Sunlight Mountain Resort, enjoy unlimited swimming at the World’s Largest Hot Springs Pool and stay in the conveniently located Hot Springs Lodge. Prices start at $100 per person. Valid December 4 through 16, 2010. 800-537-7946; www.hotspringspool.com
  
• Winter Park Ski Free: Book one night lodging (two night minimum stay) and receive a free adult lift ticket. Stay more nights, get more free tickets. Valid November 17 through December 25, 2010. 800-979-9874; www.playwinterpark.com
  
• Denver Twice the Fun for the Price of One: The brand new Four Seasons in Denver is offering a package where your  companion stays free, which includes a two-night stay, and the second night is complimentary. Dine together in the hotel’s restaurants or make a Spa date, and your companion's charges are on the Four Seasons. www.fourseasons.com/denver 
  
• Keystone Condo Giveaway: With every purchase of a lift ticket, night of lodging, Ski & Ride School lesson and $20 or more at an on-mountain restaurant, you’ll get an exclusive Keystone Scratch Ticket for a chance to win unlimited use of a 2-bedroom condo and other instant prizes like hotel stays, lift tickets, skis, Ski & Ride School lessons and more. Valid November 5 through December 19, 2010. www.keystonecondogiveaway.com
  
• Boulder Ski Escape: The Boulder Ski Escape Package, in conjunction with Eldora Mountain Resort, includes discounted Boulder hotel rooms and lift tickets. Prices start at $67.50 per person, per night. www.boulderskiescape.com
  
• Telluride $89 Stay and Ski: Enjoy three days of skiing the legendary terrain of Telluride Ski Resort, and stay for five nights. Prices start at $89 per person, per night. 800.355.8743; www.visittelluride.com/places-to-stay/packages 
  
  
• Breckenridge Ski Free, Stay Free: Four people can stay four nights in a two-bedroom condo and ski three days during Breckenridge’s early celebration of the holidays. Prices start at $70 per person, per night. Valid November 29 through December 19, 2010. 877-593-5260; www.gobreck.com
  
• YMCA of the Rockies Stay Two Nights, Get the Third Night Free: Stay two nights and get the third night free at Estes Park Center or Snow Mountain Ranch for the month of November. Applies to cabins, lodge rooms and yurts. Valid November 1 through 30, 2010. 800-777-9622
  
  
• Aspen Snowmass First Tracks MVP: The First Tracks MVP (Mini-Vacation Package) offers buy 2, get 3 on lift tickets, equipment rentals and group lessons (levels 4 and up, ages 7 and up). Valid November 25 through December 16, 2010. 888-649-5982; www.stayaspensnowmass.com
  
• Devil’s Thumb Ranch Fall Back Package: Play a little hooky with a package that includes a lodge room, breakfast for two and $50 in Ranch Bucks to use at any Ranch venue – spa, activities center for cross country skiing or snowshoeing and/or lesson or equipment rental, dining and more.  Prices start at $125 per person, per night. Valid Sunday through Thursday through December 20, 2010. 800-933-4339; www.devilsthumbranch.com
  
• Monarch Stay, Ski & Soak: Package includes lodging at the Salida Super 8, a full-day lift ticket to Monarch Ski Area, breakfast and a one day pass to Mt. Princeton Hot Springs. Prices start at $54 per person, per night. Valid November 24 through December 16, 2010. 719-539-6689

Check out Brothas4Ever's new website!

Brothas4Ever has a sweet new website and you should check it out. Brothas4Ever promotes the physical, emotional, and spiritual health of same-gender loving African-American men by building community.

The 1900s - Amulet

The 1900s - Amulet from The 1900s / M/\ZES on Vimeo.

The 1900s are embarking on a quick Northeast and Midwest tour in support of their new album Return of the Century (out November 2 on Parasol) before crossing the pond to play the Belle & Sebastian-curated All Tomorrow’s Parties. Armed with swooning 60's pop hooks, instant-hit melodies, and perfectly-layered harmonies, The 1900s are guaranteed to win the hearts of every audience they encounter with their 'Amulet.'

The Boy Scouts of America are at it again

Multisource political news, world news, and entertainment news analysis by Newsy.com

The Boy Scouts of America recently told a Dallas father he is no longer able to wear the leader shirt he was given last year because of their policy against "avowed homosexuals."

GLBT History Month: Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky

Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky is one of the most popular composers in history. His best-known works include the ballets "Swan Lake," "The Sleeping Beauty," and "The Nutcracker"; the operas "The Queen of Spades" and "Eugene Onegin"; and the widely recognized Fantasy Overture “Romeo and Juliet" and "1812 Overture."

Don't Boos and Drive

Halloween is this weekend, and the Broncos, the Colorado Department of Transportation and the Colorado State Patrol remind you – Don’t Boos and Drive! The Heat Is On this Halloween weekend. Troopers and 74 local police agencies are stepping up DUI patrols to keep our roads safe. Cops are looking for anyone who may be impaired. So, if you’re planning on partying with more than candy this Halloween, have a sober designated driver. As your “treat,” if you do plan safe transportation, TEXT “DD GAMEPLAN” to 89829.


You could win an autographed Broncos football from CDOT.

MilehighGayGuy Advertiser Shout Out: Oasis 212

Oasis 212 is a gay-owned and operated healing sanctuary in Denver bringing practitioners together to offer various forms of therapies to enrich your life. Their mission is to provide affordable quality massage to those seeking relaxation and pain relief/management while helping people uncover their authentic selves.

Follow MileHighGayGuy on Facebook and Twitter

Hey guys, please click here to become a fan of the MileHighGayGuy Facebook Fan Page.

And, while you're at it, could you also please follow me on Twitter?

Thanks much!

MileHighGayGuy Gift Guide: Jock Soap - The Buff Collection

Jock Soap's offering a really good deal on their Buff Collection set of six Jock Soap Body Bars. I'm a fan of Jock Soap from way back and I might have to pick up a couple of these to give out to some of the dirty boys on my Christmas list.

YesPleaseMore

On November 20, YesPleaseMore POP-Up Store will present “Test Market,” a fundraiser in support of the Denver Office of Cultural Affairs’ Create Denver initiative. This ground-breaking pop-up event invites the public to spend their evening socializing and sampling the offerings of some of Denver’s most iconic cultural institutions, creative businesses and hand-made entrepreneurs—all in one place!

Fire Clin McCance! 50K Facebookers call for resignation of anti-gay Arkansas School Board Member

The Human Rights Campaign today once again called upon Clint McCance – a Midland School Board Member from Arkansas – to resign following an anti-gay tirade he unleashed on Facebook in response to a rash of bullying-related suicides.  HRC has placed a full page ad in tomorrow’s Batesville Guard – the local newspaper in Independence County – calling on McCance to resign. The ad can be seen here:  www.hrcbackstory.org/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/FireMcCance_ad-BatesvilleGuard.pdf.

McCance was re-elected in September to a four year term and there is currently no recall process for elected school board members in Arkansas. 

Earlier today, HRC president Joe Solmonese also sent a letter to McCance asking him to resign for the sake of the children in his community. A letter was also sent to McCance’s colleagues on the school board asking them to join the tens of thousands of people across the country calling for McCance’s resignation.

A Facebook page calling for McCance’s resignation has swelled to nearly 50,000 “likes.” The page is at: www.facebook.com/pages/Fire-Clint-McCance/170421922968484.

Concerned citizens can weigh in by sending a message to the school board president at: http://bit.ly/cqsJND.

Buke & Gass - Page Break

Interesting stuff - and they make all of their own instruments. Impressive.

Texas news station asks: “Will the acceptance of homosexuality in this society be the downfall of America?”

This bizarre question was posed by two KETK-NBC news anchors in reaction to a larger story about how President Obama has appointed a "record number of gays" to his administration, more than any president in history.

The Courage Campaign asks you to watch this video and then sign their petition to NBC Universal executives Jeff Zucker and Steve Burke asking them to end NBC's affiliate relationship with KETK immediately.

AskMen.com's Top 10 Toughest Gay Characters

This list isn't exactly brand-new but I got a kick out of its depiction of some of the toughest, meanest, butt-kickingest gay characters to ever grace the big and small screens including Chris Keller from 'Oz' and 'True Blood's' Lafayette.

4th Annual Boo and Brew on Colfax Avenue

Celebrate Halloween this year at the 4th Annual Boo and Brew on Colfax. 

There will be lots of opportunities for music, entertainment, and libation throughout the evening.

Official Hallow Freak'n Ween Pre-Party

This year’s Hallow Freakn’ Ween, Colorado’s biggest Halloween festival, will feature would class talent that includes Markus Schulz, John O'Callaghan, Richard Vission, DJ Icey, and many more. Come down in costume for your chance to win tickets to the main event.  Hallow Freakn’ Ween takes place Saturday, October 30th at the 1st Bank Center. 

Tickets available at www.tickethorse.com.

Things to do in Denver when you're gay: Fracture art show at Boxcar Gallery

Boxcar Gallery presents Fracture, October 28th to November 20th 2010. This exhibition features the work of Boxcar members Phil Spaulding and Ian Rumley. The opening reception will be Thursday October 28th from 6-9pm and First Friday November 5th from 6-10pm. Fracture will run through November 20th, 2010.

In his new series Fracture, Phil Spaulding continues to explore the relationship between the conscious and unconscious mind. His imagery collides creating visual fragments of his memories. These methodically rendered graphite images unite to form a juxtaposition of positive and negative space where imagery becomes the mode of his communication.

Painter Ian Rumley presents Kill em All, in which he uses an illustrative style chronicling the history of hatred and violence woven into the human experience. Ian’s use of created and appropriated symbolism generates an apocalyptic atmosphere of hopelessness and despair, offering no apologies and suggesting no solutions.

Fracture opens Thursday October 28th, 2010 from 6-9pm and First Friday November 5th from 6pm to 10pm.

OMD - Sister Marie Says

OMD is back with a new album, 'History of Modern', and for their first video they've got sexy men dancing in tighty-whities! I do love me some tighty-whities! You can download the song for free by clicking this link. 

Guidance Targeting Harassment Outlines Local and Federal Responsibility

Yesterday, the Department of Education issued guidance to support educators in combating bullying in schools by clarifying when student 
bullying may violate federal education anti-discrimination laws. The guidance issued today also makes clear that while current laws enforced by the department 
do not protect against harassment based on religion or sexual orientation, they do include protection against harassment of members of religious groups based on 
shared ethnic characteristics as well as gender and sexual harassment of gay, lesbian, bi-sexual, and transgender individuals.
 

The guidance, which comes in the form of a "Dear Colleague" letter sent to schools, colleges and universities, explains educators' legal obligations to 
protect students from student-on-student racial and national origin harassment, sexual and gender-based harassment, and disability harassment. The letter 
provides examples of harassment and illustrates how a school should respond in each case.
 

The White House and Department of Education also announced next steps to 
address bullying and harassment in schools.  Early next year, the White House 
will host a conference to raise awareness and equip young people, parents, 
educators, coaches and other community leaders with tools to prevent bullying 
and harassment.  This conference will build upon efforts led by the U.S. 
Department of Education and other federal agencies to spark a dialogue on the 
ways in which communities can come together to prevent bullying and harassment.

        "We've got to dispel the myth that bullying is just a normal rite of 
passage, or an inevitable part of growing up.  It's not," said President Obama.  
"We have an obligation to ensure that our schools are safe for all of our kids. 
Every single young person deserves the opportunity to learn and grow and achieve 
their potential, without having to worry about the constant threat of 
harassment."

        "Bullying is a problem that shouldn't exist.  No one should ever feel 
harassed or unsafe in a school simply because they act or think or dress 
differently than others," said U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan. "To 
every student who feels threatened or harassed -- for whatever reason -- please 
know that you are not alone.  Please know that there are people who love you.  
And please know that we will protect you," Duncan continued.

        "Students cannot learn if they feel threatened or harassed," said 
Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights, Russlynn Ali.  "We want to keep students 
safe and learning, and today's guidance will help us do that."

        Following the release of today's guidance, the Department plans to hold 
technical assistance workshops around the country in early 2011 to help 
educators better understand their obligations and the resources available to 
take prompt and effective steps that will end harassment and bullying in schools 
and on college campuses.
 

The guidance issued today is just one of several efforts in the Department of Education's comprehensive approach to end bullying. In 2009, the 
Department joined the Departments of Defense, Justice, Health and Human Services, Agriculture, and the Interior to form the Obama Administrations Inter-Agency Task Force on Bullying. In August of this year, the Obama 
administration hosted the first ever National Bullying Summit and launched both the Stop Bulling Now campaign and www.bullyinginfo.org, a national database of 
effective anti-bullying programs.

MileHighHotGuy: Mark McQ

Today's MileHighHotGuy is a thick slice of beefcake called Mark McQ. 38-year old Mark is a life model at the Denver Art College who refers to himself as "just the most fun model ever!" Check out more pics at his Model Mayhem profile.

MilehighGayGuy Advertiser Shout Out: Elitch Lanes

Wanna bowl your butt off? Elitch Lanes is gay Denver's favorite bowling alley. Be sure to hit 'em up Tuesday or Thursday nights for Quarter Mania. Just pay a $5 entry fee and then get your games, shoes, and hot dogs for just a quarter each from 9 p.m. to close.

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White House Office of National AIDS Policy hosts HIV and Aging meeting

On Wednesday, October 27, 2010 from 8:30am-12:00 pm, the White House Office of National AIDS Policy is hosting an HIV and Aging meeting.   The purpose of the meeting is to raise awareness about people who are aging with HIV or contracting HIV as seniors; to explore unique clinical manifestations of HIV infection among older adults; to discuss existing services for seniors living with HIV and highlight successes as well as gaps; and to discuss targeted strategies for federal and non-federal stakeholders to realize the vision of the President’s National HIV/AIDS Strategy. 

This meeting is part of a series of discussions that have been convened at the White House by the Office of National AIDS Policy (ONAP) over the past year.  Past meetings have focused on women, youth, Latinos and other groups.  Past meetings have also focused on issues such as HIV and housing or public-private partnerships.  For details about previous meetings, please refer to the blog section on ONAP’s website at   www.whitehouse.gov/onap.   

This event will be live streamed at www.whitehouse.gov/live.

GLBT History Month: Matthew Shepard

As a gay college student, Matthew Shepard was the victim of a deadly hate crime. His murder brought national and international attention to the need for GLBT-inclusive hate crimes legislation.

Gold's Gym anti-gay?

Change.org wants you to meet Robert Rowling, the CEO of TRT Holdings, the company that owns Gold's Gym. Rowling is one of the richest men in America and he's giving millions of dollars to an organization founded by Karl Rove, which in turn is using that money to support politicians who believe LGBT people are "perverts" and who want to amend the U.S. Constitution to ban gay marriage.

Halloween Tricks and Treats at Tracks

Looks like Tracks has a pretty busy itinerary for celebrating Halloween this year. Check it out!

Mile High Sci-Fi presents Howling III: The Marsupials

Whoo-hoo! Mile High Sci-Fi is bringing 'Howling III: The Marsupials' to the Starz FilmCenter on October 29-30. Inexplicably, this was one of my favorite movies in high school. Jerboa's stepfather tries to rape her. And he's a werewolf.

Gay Catholic groups respond to voting considerations

Catholics for Equality and Catholics for Marriage Equality, two national Catholic organizations for LGBT equality, today issued the following statement in response to the Massachusetts' Bishops' directive to Catholics on considerations for electing civic officials:

Catholics for Equality and Catholics for Marriage Equality urge Massachusetts Catholics to heed their bishop's call to vote on Election Day. Local leaders of both groups, however, deplore the bishops' agenda to undo six years of freedom to participate in civil marriage for Massachusetts's same-sex couples and their families. "In an era when as many as 50% of marriages fail in divorce, it is unconscionable that anyone would oppose loving couples seeking to deepen their commitment to one another much less leaders of a church founded on the inclusive love of Jesus for all humanity," stated Constance Cervone.

Cervone who co-facilitated Roman Catholics for the Freedom to Marry in Massachusetts, now known as Catholics for Marriage Equality, describes the bishops' statement as "an opportunity by the bishops to continue to devalue the over 13,000 couples who have married in Massachusetts. The bishops deny the love that these couples give to each other, their children and their communities. It is a matter of basic fairness that these couples' marriages, and the security their commitments provide their children, retain the same respect, as do the marriages of their straight relatives and neighbors.

Charles Martel, a Boston therapist and co-founder of Catholics for Equality says, "Voting should never be used to determine the fundamental freedoms of any group. All legal marriages should be free from political interference. Yet the bishops of Massachusetts want us to elect politicians who would deny the freedom to marry confirmed by this state's voters." Martel notes, "the bishops attacks on our families are especially appalling given the recent events of anti-gay bullying and youth suicides and the role bias and hatred has played.

Massachusetts was the first New England state to enact marriage equality. Connecticut, Vermont and New Hampshire have followed. Catholics and other Massachusetts voters have overwhelmingly supported marriage equality since it became law by re-electing the members of the legislature who supported it. Polls show that 59% of Rhode Island voters (including 57% of Catholics in that state) also favor same-sex marriage. Martel is not surprised by this support of Catholic laity. "We faithful Catholics honor family in all its forms and know that God is an inclusive God of love desiring full health and happiness for all families regardless of sexual orientation or identity."

MileHighHotGuy: Asa

21-year old Denverite Asa has always had a passion for photography and acting.

I've always had a passion for the name Asa.

Check out more pics at Asa's Model Mayhem profile.

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MileHighGayGuy Advertiser Shout Out: National Teleprinting

Lodo's oldest and best all-purpose print shop, National Teleprinting has been located right downtown at 1420 Blake Street in Denver for the past 20 years. No matter what your printing needs, National      Teleprinting will get the job done right and to your specifications.

National Teleprinting is proud to be a member of the Chamber of Commerce and has been nominated for Denver's 'Small Business of the Year' Award.

Be sure to support the local businesses that help support Colorado's gay community with their advertising dollars. Remember - when you shop gay and gay-friendly businesses, the money you spend remains in, and benefits, the LGBT community.

Election Day has consequences for the LGBT community

Writer Lisa Keen looks at 13 races across the country whose outcomes could have a significant impact on progress toward LGBT equality. 

Among the congressional candidates she's following are David Cicilline, Steve Pougnet and Barney Frank, all of whom are openly gay.

Florida officially ends anti-gay adoption ban

The 33-year-old ban on adoptions by gays and lesbians in Florida is history. Attorney General Bill McCollum said he will not appeal a decision by a state appellate court that found the law is unconstitutional.

Obama appoints record number of LGBT officials

President Barack Obama so far has appointed 150 openly LGBT people to his administration, more than any U.S. president in history, surpassing Bill Clinton's 8-year total of 140 out appointees. Both a more receptive White House and early organizing via the Gay & Lesbian Leadership Institute's Presidential Appointments Project are credited for the record-setting pace of LGBT appointments.

Department of Education issues guidance to protect gay students from bullying

The Human Rights Campaign applauds the guidance issued today by the Department of Education (DOE), which addresses how Title IX protects LGBT students from gender-based or sexual harassment. The administration’s action comes on the heels of an August letter from HRC to the Secretary of Education, outlining how DOE guidance and other federal initiatives can strengthen the fight against bullying in our nation’s schools. The same letter was also sent to HHS Secretary Kathleen Sebelius and Attorney General Eric Holder.

In order to fully protect LGBT young people, HRC continues to call on the administration to go beyond today’s interpretation of existing law and come out in support of two important pieces of legislation: the Student Non-Discrimination Act and the Safe Schools Improvement Act. The Student Non-Discrimination Act would explicitly prohibit discrimination by schools against public school students on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity.  The Safe Schools Improvement Act would require schools and districts receiving federal funds to adopt codes of conduct specifically prohibiting bullying and harassment, including on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity.

“Today’s guidance from the Department of Education is an unequivocal reminder that our nation’s schools are already obligated to respond to incidents of bullying on the basis of a young person’s sexual orientation or gender expression,” said HRC President Joe Solmonese. “Now more than ever, the President has an opportunity to put a decisive end to the unequal treatment of LGBT students and push Congress to pass landmark legislation.”

Consistent with HRC’s recommendations, the Department of Education’s letter – addressed to over 15,000 school districts, as well as institutions of higher learning that receive federal funding – stipulates that school administrators are required by Title IX to protect LGBT students from gender-based and sexual harassment, regardless of the actual or perceived gender identity or sexual orientation of the harasser or their target.

The administration’s legal guidelines arrive amidst a persistent climate of fear that prevents many LGBT young people from gaining equal access to a safe learning environment. In a 2009 survey of 7,261 middle and high school students, the Gay Lesbian and Straight Education Network found that nearly 9 out of 10 LGBT students experienced harassment at school in the past year and nearly two-thirds felt unsafe because of their sexual orientation or gender identity. Meanwhile, only 14 states have laws prohibiting discrimination, harassment, and/or bullying against students based on sexual orientation and gender identity. Under current federal education law, sexual orientation and gender identity are not protected, as a status, from discrimination at school.

To help stop the name-calling, bullying and gender stereotyping that so many students face every day, the HRC Foundation has also developed the Welcoming Schools initiative.  This innovative program gives elementary school administrators, teachers and parents across the country the tools to prevent bias-based teasing and harassment among elementary school students.  It helps kids learn respect and tolerance early on, to prevent violence later in middle and high school.

It Gets Better: Dave Koz

Check the It Gets Better campaign video from out saxophonist Dave Koz. Dave's new album 'Hello Tomorrow' is out now.

Does it matter if the military is ready to end Don't Ask, Don't Tell?

The prospect of repealing "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" leaves many questions unanswered, this article notes.

Will top military commanders salute and obey the wishes of their civilian superiors and find a way to integrate gay troops? Or will they resist a change in policy on behalf of a disproportionately conservative rank and file who they say overwhelmingly oppose the idea of serving with out colleagues?

Repeal advocates say it's a good bet gay troops will have to deal with hate crimes, much as women and people of color in the military experienced after their integration.

GLBT History Month: Maurice Sendak

Hailed as the Picasso of children’s literature, Maurice Sendak has captured the imagination of readers young and old for more than 40 years. A prolific author and illustrator, he has published over 100 works of children's fiction.

MileHighGayGuy Advertiser Shout Out: Dazzle Restaurant and Lounge

Gay-owned and managed Dazzle Restaurant & Lounge presents an authentic Jazz Club experience unlike anything in Colorado.

Named “One of the Top 100 Jazz Club in the World” by Downbeat magazine and “Best Jazz Club” by Westword, the gay-owned and operated Dazzle Restaurant and Lounge features a unique and eclectic menu that focuses on great American traditional cuisine with a twist and live performances seven nights a week.

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