Jack Mackenroth for Baskit

Nothing is sexier to the folks at Colorado-based underwear company Baskit than a hot guy who works hard for what he believes in.  Thats why when super sexy fashion designer, model, and former 'Project Runway' contestant Jack Makenroth shared his love of Baskit, they couldn't help ask him to shed his clothes and show us his ultra ripped body for the world to see him in their hot new collections for 2011 including deLuxe, Energy and Outlines. Clearly, Jack's hard work at the gym is paying off!

PHOTO CREDIT: Ray John Pila

Michael Lucas for NOH8

Read his lips! Michael Lucas is the latest celebrity to take part in the NOH8 Campaign.

The Quotable Nic Cage

Season of The Witch follows a 14th century Crusader Behmen (Nicholas Cage) and his brother in arms Felson (Ron Perlman) leave the church crusaders and return to their homeland only to find it devastated by the Black Plague. After the Church finally catches up with them, they demand the two to transport an accused witch to a remote and sacred abbey. The accused witch is believed to be to root of the Plague. They must struggle to survive and reach the abbey - where they discover there are much darker forces at hand and saving mankind might be harder than originally thought.

In celebration of Season of The Witch, which is out tomorrow on Blu-ray & DVD, we’ve compiled some of our favorite “Cage sayings” both from his epic films.


Behmen (Season of The Witch): “I pity any man whose last face they see is yours Felson.”

Johnny Blaze (Ghost Rider): "He may have my soul, but he doesn't have my spirit." 

Ben Sanderson (Leaving Las Vegas): "I came here to drink myself to death." 

Dr. Stanley Goodspeed (The Rock): "I love pressure. I eat it for breakfast."


H.I. McDunnough (Rasing Arizona): “We figured there was too much happiness here for just the two of us, so we figured the next logical step was to have us a critter. “

Ben Sanderson (Leaving Las Vegas): “I need my drinky.”

Charlie Kaufman (Adaptation): “You and I share the same DNA. Is there anything more lonely than that?”


Sailor (Wild at Heart):  “Did I ever tell ya that this here jacket represents a symbol of my individuality, and my belief in personal freedom?”


Roy (Matchstick Men): “For some people, money is… money is a foreign film without subtitles.”

Passport Magazine available on iPad

PASSPORT Magazine, America's only gay and lesbian travel magazine, announced today that it is now available internationally on the iPad.

"When it comes to travel, PASSPORT Magazine is the insider's guide to the best gay-friendly destinations, accommodations, and cultural events in the world!" added Robert Adams, Editorial Director. "Our goal is to make exciting travel information as easily accessible to people as possible, wherever they are. To make PASSPORT even more useful, we provide active links to every venue mentioned in the magazine! On average that equals over 330 links, providing the most comprehensive information available to travelers who own an iPad."

And just in case you missed it the first time around,  Passport did a really great piece on Denver's gay community recently complete with a mention of MileHighGayGuy.com! Thanks, Passport!

Pancakes!

Pancakes!

Statement by the President on National HIV Testing Day

Statement by the President on National HIV Testing Day:

National HIV Testing Day reminds each of us to do our part in fighting HIV/AIDS and get tested. It has been thirty years since we witnessed the emergence of HIV, an illness from which roughly 600,000 Americans have died and with which more than one million Americans live.  After years of critical investments in research, prevention and care, we now have the tools to stem the spread of the disease and extend the lives of those Americans living with HIV.  And for the first time, we have a comprehensive plan for addressing the HIV/AIDS epidemic in our country.

Last July, my Administration released a National HIV/AIDS Strategy for the United States which commits this nation to reducing new HIV infections, increasing access to care for people living with HIV and reducing HIV-related health disparities.  The Strategy’s release came amid important scientific advances to help protect the health of people with HIV and prevent further transmission. One in five Americans living with HIV is not aware of their infection and this research highlights the imperative of making sure people know their HIV status and getting those who do have HIV into care.

All of us have a responsibility to ourselves and those around us to know our status and reduce our risk.  So on this National HIV Testing Day and every day, I encourage every American to join the fight against HIV/AIDS and get tested.

Maroon 5 feat. Christina Aguilera - Moves Like Jagger

Following its debut on the top NBC primetime hit "The Voice", Maroon 5's brand new song "Moves Like Jagger" featuring Christina Aguilera has hit #1 on the iTunes Top Songs chart. The track, which features two of the musician coaches on NBC’s hit series “The Voice," made its world premiere on the program on Tuesday, June 21st.

Statement from HHS Secretary Kathleen Sebelius on 17th Annual HIV Testing Day

The following is a statement from HHS Secretary Kathleen Sebelius on 17th Annual HIV Testing Day:

This month we commemorated 30 years since the first reported case of HIV/AIDS in the United States.  As we look back we can celebrate the gains we have made and look ahead with hope and purpose to the next steps we must take in our fight against HIV/AIDS.  There is still much more to be done. And this commemoration brings extra meaning to this year’s 17^th annual National HIV Testing Day (NHTD) on June 27. 

In the last three decades, we have made huge strides in our ability to test for and treat HIV and AIDS.  As in years past, the theme of this year’s NHTD is “Take the Test. Take Control”  Today, this is truer than ever. HIV testing is accurate, widely available, and often free, or low-cost.  With an early diagnosis and proper treatment people living with HIV can enjoy long, healthy lives. 

While more people are being tested for HIV than ever before, still more than half of American adults have never taken an HIV test. Even more problematic is that one in five Americans who are infected with HIV, don’t know it.  But we know that testing works.  A recent initiative to test for HIV more rigorously in emergency rooms and health centers in areas of need identified nearly 30,000 people with HIV.  Of that group, more than 18,000 people did not know they had the infection.  Health care providers are increasingly recognizing the importance of routine HIV testing for adults and adolescents, not just persons who have an identifiable “risk factor.”  We need to spread the word that knowing your HIV status helps you take control of your health, protect your loved ones, and get connected to treatment, if needed.

To support NHTD, our department, along with the National Association of People With AIDS, and many other organizations and individuals across the country are offering HIV testing and educational events.  And we continue to implement our National HIV/AIDS Strategy, a roadmap for making the U.S. a place where new HIV infections are rare and those who are HIV-positive get the treatment and care they need.

National HIV Testing Day is an opportunity to remind ourselves as well as our friends, family, colleagues, and neighbors to get tested for HIV. To locate an HIV testing site near you, text your ZIP code to “KNOWIT” (566948), visit www.HIVtest.org, or call 800-CDC-INFO. To find local HIV resources, including testing, housing, and substance abuse, family planning, and mental health services, visit the HIV/AIDS Prevention and Services Provider Locator tool.

To learn more about HIV, please visit www.AIDS.gov

Rye Rye featuring Robyn - Never Will Be Mine

The video for Rye Rye's "Never Will Be Mine" featuring Robyn has premiered on VEVO.com.  The Tim Nackashi (OK Go, TV on the Radio, Maroon 5) directed clip brings the Baltimore native and Swedish siren together in a colorful journey through the streets of Los Angeles.

Enrique Iglesias - Dirty Dancer

Enrique’s new video for “Dirty Dancer” made its debut today on VEVO. “Dirty Dancer” is the third single from Iglesias since the release of his 9^th studio album last July, Euphoria, and follows his #1 hits “I Like It” and “Tonight (I’m Loving You).” 

GLAAD's Jarrett Barrios resigns

The Board of Directors of the Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD) today announced their acceptance of President Jarrett Barrios' resignation. 

The Board of Directors will now begin to assemble an Executive Search Committee to identify a new President.  GLAAD's Board of Directors confirmed a commitment to maintaining a strong focus on its mission-related activities during this transition and has appointed Mike Thompson, Chief Operating Officer, as Acting President of the organization.

BLUSH - Undivided

Meet BLUSH, a group consisting of five gifted, gorgeous girls: Victoria, Natsuko, Angeli, Ji Hae and Alisha (photo attached).  Their single "Undivided" featuring Snoop Dogg is an irresistible anthem of solidarity and devotion that heralds the arrival of a group that embodies a style, spirit and attitude like no other international act today.  The song is available now on iTunes!

Whole Foods Market 5% Day to benefit The GLBT Community Center of Colorado

On Wednesday, June 22 The GLBT Community Center of Colorado (The Center) will be the beneficiary of the Capitol Hill Whole Foods Market's '5% Day'.

Several times a year, Whole Foods Markets hold community giving days (also known as '5% Days') where five percent of that day’s net sales are donated to a local nonprofit or educational organization. The groups that benefit from these 5% Days are as varied and diverse as the communities themselves and nobody's more diverse than The Center.

The Center thanks Whole Foods Markets for all they do for the community and encourages everybody to do their grocery shopping at the Capitol Hill Whole Foods Market on Wednesday, June 22.

Denver PrideFest 2011: Saturday, June 18 is Family Fun Day!

Bring the whole family down to Civic Center Park to experience the all-ages excitement of Denver PrideFest's Family Fun Day! They've got a Kids Parade, Kiddie Karaoke, the Dogs in Drag contest and even a petting zoo!

Denver PrideFest 2011: The ABCs of PrideFest

Denver PrideFest 2011 is very nearly upon us so check out The Center's blog showcasing The ABCs of PrideFest by the beautiful and talented Matt Kailey.

Denver PrideFest 2011: Major Mike Almy of Servicemembers Legal Defense Network

This year's Denver PrideFest (June 18 and 19) spotlights the sacrifices of America's lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgendered veterans and service members.


Grand marshal of the Denver PrideFest Parade on Sunday, June 19 will be former Air Force Maj. Mike Almy, an Iraq war veteran. Almy served in the Air Force for 13 years and followed the policies of "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" (DADT), but says he was forced to leave the service after a colleague stumbled across private e-mail messages to family and friends - messages Almy thought he deleted from the computer he was using once he left Iraq.

"In Iraq, during the height of the insurgency, this commander who had replaced my unit ordered a search of my private e-mails. They went through about 500-plus e-mails and pulled out maybe a dozen or so which were damaging to myself in the light of 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell.' "

He never admitted he was gay while he was in the Air Force, Almy says. He had been in charge of a squadron of more than 200 men and women, but says he was kicked out of the military.

President Obama signed a repeal of DADT late last year, but it still requires implementation plans by the Pentagon. The House-approved military budget for 2012 includes language which could slow that process by requiring additional military certification requirements for the policy to be dismantled.

Almy thinks the lingering support for DADT is similar to other now-overturned military bans for race or gender.

"Part of it, I think, is fear of the unknown. The military has traditionally been white men that serve."

Despite the slow process, Almy says he's encouraged by the repeal.

"It's such a huge step forward for LGBT Americans, saying that they can now defend America."

Sunday's Denver PrideFest Parade will also feature a volunteer color guard and the Denver Pipe and Drum Corps.

Lady Gaga's The Edge of Glory video to premiere tomorrow during So You Think You Can Dance?

The video for “The Edge Of Glory,” the newest hit single from Lady Gaga’s sensational Born This Way (Streamline/Interscope/KonLive), will premiere in an extended preview on Thursday, June 16 during “So You Think You Can Dance?” on FOX (8 p.m. ET).  The complete video, directed by Haus of Gaga, will be available online at Vevo.com.  “The Edge Of Glory,” the third official single spun off from the fastest-selling album of the year, debuted #3 on the Billboard Hot 100, becoming Gaga’s 10th consecutive Top 10.

Written by Lady Gaga, “The Edge Of Glory” was produced by Gaga, Fernando Garibay and DJ White Shadow.  In its review, NME called the song “quite simply a Great Pop Moment.”

The ABCs of PrideFest: V is for Venue

Civic Center Park is the fantastic venue that welcomes Denver PrideFest every year. With plenty of grassy areas for both shade and sun, a giant Main Stage area for the best in entertainment, and enough room for the 300,000-plus celebrants that will flood the park on Saturday, June 18 and Sunday, June 19, Civic Center Park is the perfect venue for PrideFest.

And don’t forget the other venue that we all know and love. The Coors Light PrideFest Parade steps off at our favorite Cheesman Park at 9:30 a.m. on Sunday, June 19, and revelers will line the streets, all the way down Colfax to the PrideFest celebration.

So plan to park it this weekend – at Civic Center Park and Cheesman Park – for the best PrideFest party ever.

The ABCs of PrideFest: T is for Transgender Resource Area

Returning this year to Denver PrideFest is the Transgender Rest & Resource Area, hosted by The Center’s Transgender Advisory Committee. Everyone is welcome to stop on by, meet the volunteers, get resources and information on trans issues, or just sit in the shade and relax.

Staffed by volunteers from the trans community and located in the shaded area just off Broadway and Colfax, the Transgender Rest & Resource Area is a great place to meet your friends, get out of the hot sun, and take a load off your feet. Trans or not, you’re welcome here.

Things to do in Denver when you're gay: Geeks Who Drink present Quiz as Folk

Geeks Who Drink has always been gay friendly. As a matter a fact, the way they put it is that they are as gay-friendly  as a "San Francisco bathhouse."

That's pretty friendly!

Now, just in time for LGBT Pride Month, they've decided that it's just about time they quizzed all the way out of the closet with 'Quiz As Folk' tomorrow night at Aqua Lounge.
 
Teams are limited to six players, and there’s an admission fee of $5 per player so the winning team will take home a cash purse between $200 and $500 (depending on total number of players).



Sounds like a great time. I'd be there myself but I'm busy with a little event you might know as Denver PrideFest so that's eating up all my spare time this week. But next time it comes around I will be there, playing to win!

MC Max Burgundy - Life Ain't Funny

Life Ain't Funny by Max Burgundy [Official Music Video] from Oliver Irving on Vimeo.

With his trusty boombox in hand, hip hop MC Max Burgundy busks through subways, maneuvers through dizzying crowds, and raps in the middle of zooming traffic. In "Life Ain't Funny", director Oliver Irving takes us on an adventure through the city and into the life of our homeless character Max.

A majority of young adults support marriage equality

Adults between the ages of 18 and 29 largely agree with their parents' views on abortion, but they're much more likely to support marriage equality, according to a survey from the Public Religion Research Institute. In a word-association exercise, 53% of survey participants had affirming or positive responses toward same-sex marriage.

DENVER CENTER ATTRACTIONS ANNOUNCES 2012 SUBSCRIPTION SERIES

Denver Center Attractions has announced a high-spirited, award-winning season of Broadway hits headed to Denver. The 2012 season, generously supported by United Airlines and Vectra Bank, features hits straight from Broadway including the return of WICKED, the 2010 Best Musical Tony Award winner, MEMPHIS and the 2010 Best Revival of a Musical Tony Award winner, LA CAGE AUX FOLLES.

Read all about it after the jump. 




Kicking off the season January 10–21 is BRING IT ON: THE MUSICAL, the explosive new musical comedy that raises the stakes on over-the-top high school rivalries. Set against the world of competitive cheerleading, this powerhouse new show hilariously proves that winning isn’t everything when it means losing something - or someone - you really care about. This show has brought together some of the freshest and funniest creative minds on Broadway, including Tony Award-winning writer Jeff Whitty (Avenue Q); Tony Award-winning composer Lin-Manuel Miranda (In The Heights); Pulitzer Prize and Tony Award-winning composer Tom Kitt (Next to Normal) and lyricist Amanda Green (High Fidelity); Tony Award-winning orchestrator Alex Lacamoire (Wicked), and Tony Award-winning director/choreographer Andy Blankenbuehler (In The Heights). BRING IT ON: THE MUSICAL is an entirely original musical comedy combining an exciting new sound, gravity-defying choreography, and a thrilling story to create a total theatrical event worth cheering for. Game On! www.bringitonmusical.com





I LOVE YOU, YOU’RE PERFECT, NOW CHANGE, the record-breaking hit, returns to the Garner Galleria Theatre with an all new production February 17-June 24. Everything you’ve secretly wanted to know about dating, mating, and marriage; husbands, wives, kids, and in-laws but were afraid to ask! Parents who talk baby talk, men who talk and women who pretend to listen, infidelity, and the injustice of long lines for the ladies room are just some of the issues that are hilariously skewed in Joe DiPietro’s hugely successful musical revue. Four actors take on the lives of more than 20 characters as they face the trials and tribulations of dealing with the opposite sex. I LOVE YOU, YOU’RE PERFECT, NOW CHANGE, sponsored by MolsonCoors, is the perfect date-night comedy for adults.



Next up, subscribers will experience the music of the legendary Johnny Cash with RING OF FIRE: THE MUSIC OF JOHNNY CASH, a co-presentation with the Denver Center Theatre Company. This musical revue uses 39 of the singer’s best-known songs to describe the journey of a man in search of his soul. Full of love and emotion, humor and empathy, the show, like all country songs, tells it like it is. RING OF FIRE: THE MUSIC OF JOHNNY CASH plays The Stage Theatre March 23–May 13 and is supported by Producing Partners L. Roger Hutson and Leslie McKay.



WICKED will be back by “Popular” demand April 11–May 20 in The Buell Theatre. Entertainment Weekly calls WICKED “the best musical of the decade.” Winner of 35 major awards, including a Grammy and three Tony Awards, WICKED is Broadway’s biggest blockbuster, a cultural phenomenon and was just named “the defining musical of the decade” by The New York Times. Long before that girl from Kansas arrives in Munchkinland, two girls meet in the land of Oz. One - born with emerald green skin - is smart, fiery and misunderstood. The other is beautiful, ambitious and very popular. How these two grow to become the Wicked Witch of the West and Glinda the Good makes for “the most complete and completely satisfying new musical in a long time” (USA Today). www.wickedthemusical.com



THE ADDAMS FAMILY will play The Buell Theatre with two snaps June 19–July 1. Sponsored by U.S. Bank, this smash-hit musical comedy brings the darkly delirious world of Gomez, Morticia, Uncle Fester, Grandma, Wednesday, Pugsley and, of course, Lurch to spooky and spectacular life. Based on the family of characters created by legendary cartoonist Charles Addams, this magnificently macabre new musical comedy is created by Jersey Boys authors Marshall Brickman & Rick Elice, Drama Desk-winning composer/lyricist Andrew Lippa (The Wild Party), choreographer Sergio Trujillo (Jersey Boys) and Olivier Award-winning director/designers Phelim McDermott & Julian Crouch (Shockheaded Peter) with creative consultation by four-time Tony Award winner Jerry Zaks. Come meet the family. We’ll leave the lights off for you. www.theaddamsfamilymusical.com


Winner of three Tony Awards including the award for Best Musical Revival, this hilarious new production of LA CAGE AUX FOLLES plays The Buell Theatre September 4­–16. It was the biggest hit of the 2010 Broadway season, leaving audiences in stitches night after night. LA CAGE tells the story of Georges, the owner of a glitzy nightclub in lovely Saint-Tropez, and his partner Albin, who moonlights as the glamorous chanteuse Zaza. When Georges' son brings his fiancée's conservative parents home to meet the flashy pair, the bonds of family are put to the test as the feather boas fly. LA CAGE is a tuneful and touching tale of one family's struggle to stay together... stay fabulous... and above all else, stay true to themselves. With a glorious score of hummable melodies and a dynamite cast featuring the “notorious and dangerous Cagelles,” LA CAGE is an indisputable musical comedy classic... and this extraordinary new version shows you why! www.lacage.com



Turn up that dial because MEMPHIS will rock Denver’s Buell Theatre October 10–21. From the underground dance clubs of 1950s Memphis, Tennessee, comes a hot new Broadway musical that bursts off the stage with explosive dancing, irresistible songs and a thrilling tale of fame and forbidden love. Inspired by actual events, MEMPHIS is about a white radio DJ who wants to change the world and a black club singer who is ready for her big break. Come along on their incredible journey to the ends of the airwaves — filled with laughter, soaring emotion and roof-raising rock 'n' roll. Winner of four 2010 Tony Awards including Best Musical, MEMPHIS features a Tony-winning book by Joe DiPietro (I Love You, You're Perfect, Now Change) and original score by Bon Jovi founding member David Bryan. Directing is Tony nominee Christopher Ashley (Xanadu) with choreography by Sergio Trujillo (Jersey Boys). Get ready to experience Broadway’s most exciting new destination... MEMPHIS! www.memphisthemusical.com



2012 season ticket packages start at just $218. To purchase a subscription, 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 also can be purchased online at www.denvercenter.org/bwaysubs. Single tickets are not available at this time.

Tracy Morgan Apologizes

The Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD), the nation's lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) media advocacy and anti-defamation organization, today spoke with Tracy Morgan following anti-gay remarks made during a recent performance in Nashville, Tenn. He also spoke out in support of LGBT people, marriage equality and against anti-LGBT bullying on Global Grind.com.

During a call with GLAAD President Jarrett Barrios and members of GLAAD's staff today, Morgan committed to meet this week in New York City with LGBT youth from the Ali Forney Center who have been hurt or left homeless by parental rejection as well as family members who have lost children to anti-gay violence. Those he will meet include Elke Kennedy, the founder of Sean's Last Wish. Elke's son Sean was killed by anti-gay violence in 2007 at the age of 20 in South Carolina, when another man called him a f*ggot and punched him so hard it broke his facial bones and separated his brain from his brain stem. Since that day, Elke has traveled more than 140,000 miles to speak in states across the country about hate violence and bullying.

Morgan also committed to participate in GLAAD's upcoming 'Amplify Your Voice' PSA campaign to combat anti-LGBT bullying.

Read more after the jump.
 


Together with GLAAD and the Tennessee Equality Project, Morgan has said he will return to Tennessee next week where he will apologize to audience members who were offended by his remarks. Currently, legislation in Tennessee is pending that would ban educators from speaking about gay people in the classroom.

Morgan stated to GLAAD: "I know how bad bullying can hurt. I was bullied when I was a kid. I'm sorry for what I said. I didn't mean it. I never want to use my comedy to hurt anyone. My family knew what it was like to feel different. My brother was disabled, and I lost my father to AIDS in 1987. My dad wasn't gay but I also learned about homophobia then because of how people treated people who were sick with that. Parents should support and love their kids no matter what. Gay people deserve the same right to be happy in this country as everyone else. Our laws should support that. I hope that my fans gay, straight, whatever forgive, and I hope my family forgives me for this."

"Meeting with gay and transgender youth shunned by their parents and families who have lost loved ones to anti-gay violence is an important first step. These meetings will help Tracy better understand that no one should be treated differently or subjected to violence," said GLAAD President Jarrett Barrios.

Russell Simmons also spoke out: "In the years that I have known Tracy, I've only ever known him to want to make people happy. This experience might be a blessing. The amount of pain he caused has resulted in a new sensitivity for him that he can now use to bridge communities. I'm proud to be a straight figure who spends time advocating for the community and for marriage equality. I'm happy to have another ally in Tracy. People like Tracy Morgan need to speak out against homophobia, and I hope more leaders within the black community and everywhere speak out in support for marriage equality like he has. "

Russell Simmons received the GLAAD Media Award this year for Excellence in Media.

GLAAD's upcoming 'Amplify Your Voice' PSA campaign will feature Russell Simmons, Rev. Al Sharpton, Kristin Chenoweth, Chaz Bono, Amy Poehler, Rashida Jones, Vinny Guadagnino and Tori Spelling, among others. The American Federation of Teachers (AFT) has partnered with GLAAD to produce the campaign, and NBCUniversal has pledged national airtime. Famed producer Jonathan Murray serves as creative director.

On Friday, Barrios called for NBC to condemn anti-gay violence during an interview with CNN and via GLAADBlog.org. Barrios also addressed the dangers posed by jokes about anti-gay violence in an op-ed published on CNN.com.

After speaking with GLAAD, NBC Entertainment Chairman Robert Greenblatt issued the following statement: "I speak for NBC and myself personally when I say we do not condone hate or violence of any kind and I am pleased to see Tracy Morgan apologizing for recent homophobic remarks in his standup appearance," Greenblatt said. "We will always recognize an artist's freedom to express him or herself, but not when reckless things are said no matter what the context. Unfortunately, Tracy's comments reflect negatively on both 30 Rock and NBC - two very all-inclusive and diverse organizations - and we have made it clear to him that this kind of behavior will not be tolerated."

Tina Fey also weighed in with TMZ.com: "The violent imagery of Tracy's rant was disturbing to me at a time when homophobic hate crimes continue to be a life-threatening issue for the GLBT Community. It also doesn't line up with the Tracy Morgan I know, who is not a hateful man and is generally much too sleepy and self-centered to ever hurt another person. I hope for his sake that Tracy's apology will be accepted as sincere by his gay and lesbian co-workers at '30 Rock,' without whom Tracy would not have lines to say, clothes to wear, sets to stand on, scene partners to act with, or a printed-out paycheck from accounting to put in his pocket."

30 Rock received the GLAAD Media Award this year for Outstanding Television - Individual Episode. 


The ABCs of PrideFest: P is for Parade, Part 1

We love a parade. And what’s PrideFest without one? Starting with the Kids Parade on Saturday, June 18, led by the Mile High Freedom Band, and continuing with the granddaddy of ‘em all, the Coors Light PrideFest Parade, kicking off at 9:30 a.m. on Sunday, June 19 at Cheesman Park and continuing down Colfax Ave. to Civic Center Park, there is no better way to get your Pride on.

Whether you’re marching along or cheering them on, make the Coors Light PrideFest Parade the highlight of your PrideFest weekend!

This post by Matt Kailey originally appeared at The Center's Blog as part of The ABCs of PrideFest series. 

Tax equity bill could benefit gay couples

Rep. Jim McDermott, D-Wash., has introduced a bill in Congress that would erase the tax penalty for couples who take advantage of employer-provided health benefits for their same-sex partners. 

McDermott said the measure, which has both Democratic and Republican sponsors, could be considered as part of a larger tax bill.

GOP presidential candidates weigh in on homosexuality

Three Republicans who have announced their candidacies for president answered questions about LGBT issues this week. Herman Cain, a former business executive, said he believes homosexuality is sinful and a choice. Rick Santorum pledged his support for amending the U.S. Constitution to ban legal marriage for same-sex couples. 

Meanwhile, former Mass. Gov. Mitt Romney (pictured) declined to say whether he believed homosexuality is a sin, but reiterated his opposition to marriage equality.

New York Giants' Michael Strahan is a New Yorker for Marriage Equality

Michael Strahan, the record setting former defensive end of the New York Giants, has filmed a video with his fiancée for the Human Rights Campaign (HRC), the nation’s largest lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) civil rights organization, as part of the group’s New Yorkers for Marriage Equality campaign.  In the video, the Strahan feels “it’s unfair to keep committed couples from getting married.”   The campaign, which raises the public profile of marriage equality in New York, can be viewed online at www.hrc.org/NY4marriage.

HHS delivers guidance to state Medicaid agencies on states’ freedom and flexibility to offer financial protections to same-sex couples

Last week, HHS’ Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) provided guidance to state Medicaid agencies clarifying that they are able to offer same-sex couples many of the same financial and asset protections available to opposite-sex couples when a partner is entering a nursing home or care facility.  In a letter sent today, CMS advised state agencies of their ability to ensure that same-sex partners can remain in shared homes without Medicaid liens being applied.  The guidance also clarifies that states have the flexibility to protect same-sex partners under estate recovery and transfer of assets rules.

“Low-income same-sex couples are too often denied equal treatment and the protections offered to other families in their greatest times of need,” said Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius. “This is now changing. Today’s guidance represents another important step toward ensuring that the rights and dignity of every American are respected by their government. ”

Millions of families each year face difficult decisions associated with placing family members in nursing home care.  Medicaid, which is the largest payer of nursing home services in the country, requires individuals in need of care to have exhausted most of their personal income and assets before qualifying for this long-term care benefit.  There are protections, however, that ensure that the spouse of a Medicaid nursing home resident may remain in the couple’s home.  While states may place liens on the property of an individual needing care, if there is a spouse in the home, states must protect that spouse from having a lien attached to their home.  For same-sex couples these protections do not always apply.

Today’s announcement clarifies that states can extend these protections when the same-sex spouse or domestic partner of the Medicaid enrollee continues to reside in their home.  The letter also outlines how states can apply other protections to same-sex spouses or domestic partners, for example, by allowing individuals needing institutional care to transfer ownership of their homes without financial penalties. States have the choice of extending these protections.

“Medicaid gives states remarkable flexibility to set these kinds of policies,” said Cindy Mann, deputy administrator of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) who directs the Medicaid division within the agency.  “We want to assure states that they are within the law when they make the choice to extend equal financial rights and protections to all of their citizens receiving Medicaid services, regardless of sexual orientation.”

View CMS’s letter to State Medicaid Agencies at http://www.cms.gov/SMDL/SMD/list.asp

here!TV debuts Threesome

Threesome, which debuts on here! TV last Friday. The first of 24 half-hour episodes was hosted by Stoya and featured an expert panel of guests including Cherie Lily and Will Wikle and special guest Dr. Frank Spinelli. Threesome will air exclusively on here! TV and here! Online, here! TV’s premium online subscription video player found at http://premium.heretv.com/. 

“We thought it was time to put a new spin on the traditional dating advice programs. Threesome is just that,” says Eric Feldman, here! TV’s Executive Vice President and General Manager. “We’ve assembled a lineup of guests who tackle it all with a no-holds-barred approach. From the serious to the salacious, there’s never been a roundtable like this before.”

Threesome, here! TV’s roundtable discussion regarding sex, dating, and relationships, includes celebrity panelists answering viewers’ questions. Each episode features a new panel of experts lending their advice to the here! TV audience. Viewers are invited to participate in the conversation by submitting their questions. Email threesome@heretv.com or call 212-453-1653 for a chance to be featured on Threesome!

TransYouth Family Allies' Kim Pearson wins Vanguard Award at LGBTA Youth Award

Kim Pearson, Executive Director of TransYouth Family Allies (TYFA), was awarded the prestigious Vanguard Award last Tuesday night in recognition of her work on behalf of gender-variant youth and their families.

TYFA President Shannon Garcia said. "The Vanguard Award is a wonderful acknowledgement of Kim's work for TYFA at the frontier of family support related to gender identity and expression. Gender-variant minors and their families have unique needs. As more young people express a wider range of gender identities, including transition to living in their affirmed gender, TYFA is leading the way in these emerging legal, medical, and social issues."

Kim Pearson accepted the award Tuesday night, and said,  "I am thrilled and honored to receive this award. Since our founding in 2006, TYFA has seen significant improvements in attitudes and accommodations for gender-variant and gender-questioning youth. Recognition like the Vanguard Award inspires me and the organization I lead to keep that momentum going."

Kristin Chenowith - I Want Somebody (Bitch About)

Born and raised in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, actress/songstress Kristin Chenoweth goes back to her country music roots with her new album Some Lessons Learned, to be released on SONY MASTERWORKS on Tuesday, September 13. 

Her debut single, “I Want Somebody (Bitch About)” is a tongue-in-cheek song about finding unconditional love. All of the songs on Chenoweth’s new album are very personal and explore her life experiences as a woman. The single available on itunes now.

B. Scott - Kiss Kiss

Multimedia Maven B. Scott has released the provocative new music video for his new single "Kiss Kiss."  Directed by Khoa Bui, produced by Midi Mafia (Justin Bieber's "Mama's Boy," Jennifer Lopez's "Hold It Don't Drop It") and co-written by B. Scott and Sonyae Elise, the 90s-inspired, high-energy dance track serves as B. Scott's first official single and is available for purchase on iTunes now.

Denver PrideFest 2011: Calling all Gay Servicemembers and Vets

Don’t forget – the theme for this year’s PrideFest festival and the parade this year is “These Colors Don’t Run: honoring our LGBT servicemembers and veterans.”

The Center has chosen the Servicemembers Legal Defense Network as the Grand Marshal for Denver PrideFest 2011, honoring their work on behalf of our LGBT community and commitment to repealing Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell.

The Center is also asking all LGBT servicemembers and veterans to join in an open parade contingent and march with us in the parade on Sunday morning. All servicemembers are welcome! If you are interested in participating contact vetsmarch@glbtcolorado.org, or report directly to Cheesman Park at 11th Ave. and Race St. at 8:30 a.m. on Sunday, June 19.

It Gets Better: American Airlines

American Airlines, through the leadership of its longstanding lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender employee group, GLEAM, today sent an eloquent message to youth everywhere that their lives matter and that their futures will be brighter. American Airlines is the first airline to take part in the far-reaching “It Gets Better” campaign launched online last year.

The ABCs of Denver PrideFest: O is for On the Air

Check out these great Denver PrideFest ads. And if they make you wish you were there – well, you can be. Denver PrideFest is coming up on June 18 and 19 in Civic Center Park. Mark your calendar.


This post by Matt Kailey originally appeared at The Center's Blog as part of The ABCs of PrideFest series.

The ABCs of PrideFest: N is for Nina Montaldo

Nina Montaldo (aka James Martinez) began her career as a female impersonator in 1969. Since then Nina has become a legend throughout the drag community. In her home town of Denver, Colorado, and throughout the country, Nina has entertained thousands of people in both the gay and straight communities. Nina was instrumental in bringing the art of female impersonation into the straight community while performing with the first female impersonation troupe, Playgirl Follies, at Denver’s Annual People’s Fair in the early 1980s and continues to perform through Denver and the country with her unique style of drag.

Since the inception of the Imperial Court of the Rocky Mountain Empire, Nina has been an active member. Her first official Command was for Empress I Bridgette. Nina served as Princess Royale 7, Queen Mother and the elected office of Empress 24. She also served on the Board of Directors for 14 years. Nina has helped raise thousands of dollars for various charities, including PFLAG and the battles against HIV/AIDS and breast cancer, and has been recognized for her work with numerous awards.

Nina is a mentor to many queens, providing makeup lessons, and she continues to style wigs for queens across the country. When not entertaining the masses, James is an apartment manager where he has lived for 30 years! You may have seen Nina last year as one of the Grand Marshals for the 35th Anniversary of Denver’s Pride Fest.

Titles include:
Ms. Gay Colorado America 1980
Princess Royale 7, Imperial Court of the Rocky Mountain Empire
Ms. Gay Pride 1989-1990
Queen Mother 3 For Live reign 17-23, Imperial Court of the Rocky Mountain Empire
Empress 24, Imperial Court of the Rocky Mountain Empire
Board of Directors, Member at Large, for 14 years, Imperial Court of the Rocky Mountain Empire
First Lady of Entertainment to the Americas proclaimed by Nicole The Great, Queen Mother of the Americas

Find Nina on Facebook.

This post by Matt Kailey originally appeared at The Center's Blog as part of The ABCs of PrideFest series. 

The ABCs of Denver PrideFest: J is for Justin Utley

When hunky ex-Mormon Justin Utley appeared in Out Front Colorado’s January 12, 2011 issue, he informed us that he was applying to perform at PrideFest this year, and we started to dream. Well, now our dreams have come true.

The unbelievable Mr. Utley will grace the Main Stage on Saturday, January 18 – and we’ll be in the audience, trying to keep our hands to ourselves.

This post by Matt Kailey originally appeared at The Center's Blog as part of The ABCs of PrideFest series. 

Denver PrideFest 2011: The Center Presents PRIDE Tease - A Retrospective of Pride Ts

Debuting on Friday, June 10 and running through the month of June, The GLBT Community Center of Colorado (The Center) will present ‘PRIDE Tease: A Retrospective of Pride T-Shirts’. This exhibit will help to chronicle Colorado's gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender history and evolution through the display of Pride T-shirts, newspaper clippings and magazine articles, photos, posters and other memorabilia.

For decades T-shirts have been worn to demonstrate a person’s unique qualities, lifestyle or opinions. They have also been used to represent memories, demonstrate belief systems, or provide a means for people to band together and express who they are. People wore and continue to wear T-shirts to say something about the type of person they are … without ever having to say a word.

‘PRIDE Tease: A Retrospective of Pride T-Shirts’ will span 34 years of LGBT history. In 1977, members of Colorado’s LGBT community were wearing T-shirts that said “I Am ‘One’ Are You?” We wore these T-shirts to express our identities. It was a way for us to build community in public without fear of persecution or harm. Today, the message may seem too subtle, but back then it was a bold public statement. In 1986, our T-shirts read “Unified in Pride” and symbolized the strength we took from and gave back to our LGBT brothers and sisters. By 1997, Denver’s anti-gay Amendment 2 had been overturned and we celebrated our victories by wearing T-shirts that proclaimed that we were “Weaving a Community of Strength.” And by the first millennial decade, LGBT Pride had become a brand - a powerful identity - that left nothing unsaid.

Over the past four decades – 1970’s to the 2000’s – The Center, Denver PrideFest, and Colorado’s LGBT community have used our T’s to tease the straight public by communicating with each other under their noses while slowly educating them to be more accepting of the LGBT community as our messages became bolder and more “in your face.” And every one of you who has worn a PrideFest T-shirt has contributed to the LGBT rights movement. Whether you wore it at PrideFest, the grocery store, among friends, at a family gathering, at work or anywhere in public, you have stood proud in your identity and for your community.


The Center hopes that ‘PRIDE Tease: A Retrospective of Pride T-Shirts’ provides you with an educational and historical perspective of our movement in Colorado, empowers you to always be proud of whom you are, and reminds you to always celebrate the rich diversity of our community.

Vote on the Third Annual One Book, One Denver

One Book, One Denver, a citywide book club, started seven years ago with the goal of cultivating a culture of reading in Denver, and to build community and stimulate people to read, is back. And for the third year, One Book, One Denver invites readers to vote for the 2011 book selection.

Readers are encouraged to visit www.denverartsinteractive.com to cast their vote. Voting runs June 1 through June 15. Once voting ends and the winning book is determined, Arts & Venues Denver will roll-out the 2011 One Book, One Denver program for a September 1 launch. The people of Denver, young and old, are encouraged to join others in the shared experience of simultaneously reading the same book and participating in related events.

“We are thrilled to be a partner with One Book, One Denver for another year,” said Diane Lapierre, Denver Public Library. “Not only does this event engage people with reading, but also creates a wonderful sense of community as thousands of book enthusiasts read and discuss the same book, at the same time.”

Last year’s selection, “The Help” by Kathryn Stockett was a huge success with over 3,700 copies circulated. Watch for book-related events throughout the book club period and check out http://www.denvergov.org/tabid/436793/Default.aspx for book club discussions and tools.

This year's selections are:

The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth Stein: Enzo knows he is different from other dogs: a philosopher with a nearly human soul, he has educated himself by watching television extensively, and by listening very closely to the words of his master, Denny Swift, an up-and-coming race car driver. Through Denny, Enzo has gained tremendous insight into the human condition, and he sees that life, like racing, isn't simply about going fast. Using the techniques needed on the race track, one can successfully navigate all of life's ordeals.

Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet by Jamie Ford: Henry Lee is a Chinese-American in 1986 Seattle who has just lost his wife to cancer. Henry hears that the belongings of Japanese immigrants interned during WWII have been found in the basement of the Panama Hotel, which spurs stories and memories of losses of old age and the bewilderment of youth.

The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Skloot: Her name was Henrietta Lacks, but scientists know her as HeLa. She was a poor Southern tobacco farmer who worked the same land as her slave ancestors, yet her cells—taken without her knowledge—became one of the most important tools in medicine.

For more information on Arts & Venues Denver, please visit www.artsandvenuesdenver.com and cast your vote at http://www.denverartsinteractive.com/contests/2011-one-book-one-denver-book-selection.

Denver PrideFest 2011: Sunday, June 19 is the Coors Light PrideFest Parade and the Festival in Civic Center Park

Produced by The GLBT Community Center of Colorado (The Center), and recognized as one of the Top 10 Pride Events in the country, Denver PrideFest 2011 takes place on Saturday, June 18 from 11am-7pm and Sunday, June 19 from 10am-6pm in downtown Denver's Civic Center Park. For more information visit www.denverpride.org.

Many countries becoming more gay friendly, study finds

Acceptance of homosexuality has increased in many countries around the globe, with only a few countries registering a decline in acceptance, according to a study by the National Opinion Research Center at the University of Chicago. The Netherlands, Denmark, Norway, Switzerland and Belgium top the list of countries that are most accepting of gays and lesbians. In Russia, Cyprus, the Czech Republic and Latvia however, disapproval of homosexuality has increased in recent years.

Free music download: The Paramedic - The Devil In Me

Dayton, OH metalcore experience THE PARAMEDIC recently announced that they are giving away their new EP, The Devil In Me, for free! The EP was self-produced by the band at their personal studio in Dayton, OH. With a revolutionary new sound, THE PARAMEDIC is ready to obliterate the airwaves, your stereos, and your ears with The Devil In Me. The band is currently looking for a label to call home.

State Medicaid Director Letter on Coverage and Service Design Opportunities for Individuals Living with HIV

Today, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) released a State Medicaid Director letter providing guidance to inform States of opportunities to provide Medicaid coverage to individuals living with HIV in support of President Obama’s National HIV/AIDS Strategy.

This guidance informs States on how to apply for opportunities in the Medicaid program that allow for flexibility to improve care and care coordination and offer options to treat individuals living with HIV (including individuals living with AIDS, which refers to individuals living with an advanced stage of the HIV disease) in the community.  States may choose to apply for one or more options to extend coverage to individuals living with HIV: Community First Choice; Health Home for Enrollees with Chronic Conditions; Section 1915(c) Home and Community Based Services Waiver; Section 1915(i) State Plan option; Money Follows the Person Rebalancing Demonstration; and Section 1115 Demonstrations.

These coverage and service design opportunities may assist States in increasing access to care for individuals living with HIV, provide alternatives that could alleviate the current burden to AIDS Drug Assistance Programs (ADAP), and help States make progress towards expanding coverage and providing access in accordance with the Affordable Care Act requirements.

OUT Boulder has volunteer opportunities

OUTBoulder is seeking volunteers to assist with basic administrative support services in our Pridehouse office.  If you have been searching for a way to get involved in the community and put your fantastic filing, phone answering, accounting, correspondence & organizational skills to use, now is your chance.  

Support OUT Boulder's Office Manager, Mauricio Shoup this summer with the Pridehouse renovation, various OUT programs management & Boulder Pridefest scheduling.  This is your opportunity to gain experience in non-profit event planning and office management. Three month commitment required.   Email volunteer@outboulder.org to take advantage of this opportunity.  

Being a gay teen is risky business

A new study shows that gay teens are more likely to engage in risky behavior - everything from unsafe sex all the way up to suicide - than their straight counterparts.

However, studies also show that gay teens who have access to support groups and programs like The GLBT Community Center of Colorado's Rainbow Alley are much less likely to suffer these kinds of negative behaviors than youth who do not.

Free music download: Teams vs. Star Slinger - Punch Drunk Love

Click here for a free download of Teams vs. Star Slinger's 'Punch Drunk Love'. Online collaborations between producers Star Slinger (repping the UK for Manchester) and Teams (standing up for America from Knoxville, Tennessee) reward the fruits of online labor: six blog-rockin’, booty-shakin’ rippers, culled from vinyl-sourced samples of R&B and modern soul classics and reworked, twerked, and shimmied into the matrix of hip hop rhythms, sunshine, and classy, electro-clipped states of mind. The work of these two individuals permeates the original material up, under and around, until you’re not entirely sure how you’ll ever listen to the dusties in your collection again without treatments like the ones provided here. Good times for the summertime state of mind, no matter what time of year you’re livin’ in.

The ABCs of PrideFest: C is for Carmen Carrera

Denver loves RuPaul’s Drag Race – and why shouldn’t we? Many of our local lovelies have gone on the show and smeared the competition – not to mention the competition’s lipstick. But this year, we welcome New Jersey’s own Carmen Carrera, straight (?) from Drag Race Season 3 to Denver PrideFest.

Carrera will be heating up the PrideFest Main Stage on Saturday, June 18, and she knows how to work! Find out for yourself at PrideFest – and keep reading this blog for more on Ms. Carrera.

This post by Matt Kailey originally appeared at The Center's Blog as part of The ABCs of PrideFest series. 

The ABCs of PrideFest: D is for Dogs in Drag

Is your puppy feeling plain? Well, primp him up and drag him (or her) to Dogs in Drag on Saturday, June 18 on the Main Stage at Denver PrideFest.

Dogs in Drag is one of most popular PrideFest featured events, and every year, the dogs get draggier. Your dog will love sniffing out the competition, pawsing to let everyone get a good look, and drooling over all the canine costumes.

The stage will be littered with precious pups in outlandish outfits vying to be top dog.

Unleash your dog’s inner diva at Dogs in Drag, where wigs and wags abound. Don’t make your dog beg – fetch a costume today, bone up on the latest doggie moves, and get ready for a treat. And be sure to take some tips from past contestants.




This post by Matt Kailey originally appeared at The Center's Blog as part of The ABCs of PrideFest series.
Tags: PrideFest

Federal LGBT Youth Summit

Click here to read HHS Secretary Kathleen Sebelius' statements from today's Federal LGBT Youth Summit.

The ABCs of PrideFest: C is for Carlo Riley

What’s PrideFest without Michael Jackson?

Alas, the King of Pop is no longer with us, but you will be hard-pressed to say that’s not Jackson himself on the stage when his No. 1 fan, lookalike, and Michael Jackson impersonator Carlo Riley moonwalks his way into your heart.

Catch Riley on the Main Stage on Saturday, June 18 for “Carlo Riley presents The Michael Jackson Tribute.” And keep reading this blog for more on Michael … umm … Carlo. He’s Bad!

This post by Matt Kailey originally appeared at The Center's Blog as part of The ABCs of PrideFest series. 

Denver PrideFest 2011: Saturday, June 18 is Family Fun Day!

Produced by The GLBT Community Center of Colorado (The Center), and recognized as one of the Top 10 Pride Events in the country, Denver PrideFest 2011 takes place on Saturday, June 18 from 11am-7pm and Sunday, June 19 from 10am-6pm in downtown Denver's Civic Center Park. For more information visit www.denverpride.org.

The ABCs of PrideFest: C is for The Center

This year, the GLBT Community Center of Colorado (The Center) celebrates 35 years of service to Colorado’s LGBT community – and The Center’s new building at 1301 E. Colfax Ave. says it all.

The Center has grown along with the community, providing ongoing services and support, as well as our favorite annual celebration – Denver PrideFest. Check out The Center for support groups, social groups, youth programs, seniors programs, legal services, health services and a whole lot more.

And join The Center in commemorating 36 years of Pride at this year’s PrideFest celebration. We can’t wait to see you there!

This post by Matt Kailey originally appeared at The Center's Blog as part of The ABCs of PrideFest series. 

The ABCs of PrideFest: B is for Beer

And not just any beer – Coors Light is the beer that the boys (see below) will be imbibing at Denver PrideFest 2011, right after the Coors Light PrideFest Parade, which kicks off at 9:30 a.m. on Sunday, June 19. It’ll be a hot day, so grab a Coors Light – and make it a hot night, too!

This post by Matt Kailey originally appeared at The Center's Blog as part of The ABCs of PrideFest series.

The ABCs of PrideFest: B is for Boys

Nothing beats a bevy of boys basking bare-chested on the boulevard! No boys? Why bother? That’s why PrideFest is full of ‘em.






This post by Matt Kailey originally appeared at The Center's Blog as part of The ABCs of PrideFest series.