GLAAD’s Religion, Faith & Values program works to elevate
LGBT-affirming voices of faith in mainstream, regional and community
media.
Recent religion and faith updates include from GLAAD's Religion, Faith & Values program include:
Sangamon County Circuit Judge John Schmidt ruled last week that the state of Illinois has no legal obligation to renew its annual foster care contract with Catholic Charities, due to Catholic Charities’ refusal to place children in families with gay and lesbian parents.
After being put under investigation earlier this month simply for providing building space for PFLAG meetings, Journey Fellowship, a Baptist congregation in Owensboro, Kentucky, has adopted a position of “radical acceptance” of LGBT people and, as a result, has been removed from the Daviess-McLean Baptist Association.
Progressive Christian magazine Sojourners, which had previously received criticism after rejecting an advertisement by the Believe Out Loud campaign, printed an ad in this month’s issue highlighting statistics on LGBT youth homelessness and the Ali Forney Center, an LGBT youth homeless shelter in New York City.
Meeting in Orlando for their 2011 Churchwide Assembly, the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA), the nation’s largest Lutheran denomination, passed a resolution last week to seek out and eliminate bullying in churches and schools.
The Rev. Dr. Janet Edwards wrote in the Huffington Post this week about Mt. Auburn Presbyterian Church in Cincinnati, Ohio, which recently celebrated its 20th year as an inclusive and affirming congregation,
noting that “while many faithful Christians today are beginning to
move in the direction of full inclusion, Mt. Auburn has been showing us
the way to the future of the church, since the early 1990s” and has
served as a guide for the progression of many denominations and
congregations towards affirmation and acceptance of all people of
faith.
Finally, clergy in Australia are speaking out in favor of marriage equality, while a poll found that the majority of Australian Christians support marriage for all couples.
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
Tony Award-winner Brian Stokes Mitchell and Broadway Rent stars Adam Pascal and Anthony Rapp are poised to open new Lone Tree Arts Center
They originated roles in the Tony Award and Pulitzer Prize-winning Broadway musical Rent. These Broadway stars are opening the new Lone Tree Arts Center in style as Adam Pascal and Anthony Rapp (left) will perform in concert on Friday, September 9.Adam and Anthony Live is the only Colorado stop on Pascal and Rapp’s national concert tour. Each artist will perform a solo set highlighting their individual musical careers. The two friends and cast mates will also share stories from Rent, the show that brought them together, and perform songs from the Pulitzer Prize-winner as well as contemporary hits and their own original material.
A dream of arts patrons in South Metro Denver for more than 20 years, the first publicly-financed professional performing arts center is opening. The Lone Tree Arts Center, a class act around the corner – a place to see professional quality performances without the traffic and parking challenges associated with traveling downtown.
In May 2008, Lone Tree voters approved a bond issue for $18.5 million to construct the Arts Center, and RidgeGate development executives donated the five acre/$3 million site. The Lone Tree Cultural Arts Foundation was challenged to raise additional funds to upgrade the Arts Center’s amenities and finishes. Westlake Reed Leskosky, a leading national designer of performing arts centers, designed a professional, innovative and environmentally “green” venue with state-of-the-art systems. In addition to building the project, GE Johnson Construction Company donated the Arts Center’s expansive entrance plaza.
For individual performance tickets and Inaugural Season Ticket packages call 720 509-1000 or purchase online at www.LoneTreeArtsCenter.org.
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
Gill Foundation's 2010 Annual Report: A message from Tim Gill
According to The Gill Foundation's 2010 Annual Report, in 2010, the Gill Foundation awarded $11.8 million in grants—an increase of more than $2 million from 2009, despite the fact that the foundation's assets remained flat. Check out Tim Gill's message above in addition to other videos featuring the work of the Gill Foundation's grantees in the 2010 Annual Report and you’ll see why.
Fourteen of the Nation’s Top Hospitals Show Commitment to LGBT Healthcare Equality
The exclusive hospital ratings, issued annually by U.S. News and World Report, are based on data from nearly 5,000 hospitals in 16 adult specialties and 10 pediatric specialties and are widely accepted as the official national healthcare ratings.
“This year’s U.S. News & World Report’s best hospital ratings demonstrate once again that providing quality healthcare goes hand-in-hand with healthcare free of prejudice and discrimination of any kind,” said HRC President Joe Solmonese. “We congratulate these 14 top hospitals on this honor, and appreciate their dedication to healthcare equality for LGBT patients and families demonstrated by participating in the HEI.”
"It's not a coincidence that our medical center consistently is ranked among the nation's top hospitals by both the Healthcare Equality Index and U.S. News & World Report," said Mark Laret, CEO of UCSF Medical Center. "Providing equal treatment to all patients is central to delivering the highest quality, safest and most effective health care."
The Healthcare Equality Index is an annual survey administered by the Human Rights Campaign Foundation. The HEI 2011 reported on the voluntary participation of a record 87 survey respondents, representing 375 facilities nationwide. As facilities transition to more LGBT-friendly policies and procedures, the HEI can serve as an organizational assessment tool by assisting hospitals in modifying their policies, and can help hospitals comply with Joint Commission standards addressing non-discrimination, and new HHS regulations on visitation.
HEI 2011 participating hospitals making U.S. News & World Report’s 2012 Honor Roll include:
- Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, MD
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA
- Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
- Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH
- Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA
- New York-Presbyterian University Hospital of Columbia and Cornell, New York
- UCSF Medical Center, San Francisco, CA
- Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA
- Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC
- Barnes-Jewish Hospital/Washington University, St. Louis, MO
- University of Washington Medical Center, Seattle, WA
- University of Michigan Hospitals and Health Centers, Ann Arbor, MI
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN
- Stanford Hospital and Clinics, Stanford, CA
Bette Midler: The Showgirl Must Go In
The New York Times exults, “Like all great showgirls, she [Midler] may wear sequins like a second skin, but the woman underneath is all flesh and blood, humor and heart.”
The $10 million extravaganza played over 300 performances in a nearly three-year run at the famed Colosseum at Caesar’s Palace. Taped before thousands in The Colosseum at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas, the 70-minute cavalcade features many of Ms. Midler's colorful and classic stage and screen characters. Joining her on the gargantuan stage is an energetic corps of talented performers, including the staggering Harlettes, twenty dazzling dancers she calls The Caesar Salad Girls and a 13-piece band.
Ms. Midler’s superstar power shines in renditions of her immortal songs including “The Rose,” “Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy,” “From a Distance,” “Hello in There” and “Wind Beneath My Wings.” The production is nominated for a 2011 Emmy Award for Outstanding Variety, Music or Comedy Special. In a career that has spanned more than 40 years, Ms. Midler has won four Grammy Awards, four Golden Globes, three Emmy Awards, a special Tony Award and been nominated for two Academy Awards.
Botanic Gardens’ Fall Plant and Bulb Sale
According to the Botanic Gardens, October is a great time to plant for fall and winter interest and the sale will feature more than 10,000 bulbs, unique Grown at the Gardens plants and pansies.
These fall-planted items acclimate in the ground through the winter so they are ready to burst forth often months earlier than spring-planted specimens. The Gardens’ horticulturists will be on-site to answer questions and provide expert gardening advice. Come learn which plant is best for your fall and winter garden, and how to plant your spring bulbs. Admission to the Gardens and to the Mordecai Children’s Garden on Sept. 24 is $6. Free admission for members.
Tip: Come early for the best selection; inventory sells quickly!
A gay "jihad" against Santorum?
Republican presidential candidate and former U.S. Sen. Rick Santorum told a gathering in South Carolina that the gay community was engaged in a holy war against him because of his opposition to marriage rights for same-sex couples.
Come Out with Caesars Entertainment to New Orleans, Las Vegas & Atlantic City
Harrah’s New Orleans will kick-off the celebration this Labor Day weekend with the largest gay event in New Orleans, Southern Decadence, by hosting the Grand Marshall’s dinner and official kick-off extravaganza block party on September 1. Voted as Out magazine’s Hottest DJ in 2007, Hit sensation DJ Hector Fonseca will bring his world-renowned dance beats for a guaranteed good time. In addition, Harrah’s New Orleans is the leading sponsor of Envy, a VIP experience in the heart of the action, and will march through the famed French Quarter in the Decadence parade located in the “Gay Capital of the South.” For more information on Harrah’s Southern Decadence festivities, visit www.gayharrahsnola.com.
In Las Vegas, Caesars Entertainment resorts are participating in the annual Las Vegas PRIDE festivities beginning September 16. The 2011 PRIDE Night Parade will make its way through Las Vegas on Friday, September 16, with floats ready to impress with their over-the-top decor. Caesars Entertainment will participate with a float decked out with a cast of characters from the company’s Las Vegas-based production shows including Frank Marino’s Divas, Donn Arden’s Jubilee! and The Chippendales. Caesars will also have a presence at the PRIDE festival with the iconic Jubilee! showgirls. To cap the weekend, a special cocktail reception will be held at Serendipity 3 at Caesars Palace on Sunday, September 18 at 8:30 p.m. followed by a special performance of Frank Marino’s Divas at the Imperial Palace at 10 p.m. For more information, visit www.gayparislasvegas.com.Harrah's Resort Atlantic City will continue the LGBT festivities by hosting its annual OUT in AC weekend from September 23-25. This event will be nothing less than fabulous with Frank Marino, female impersonator and Las Vegas Diva, as this year’s host. The full weekend of LGBT-themed activities includes concerts, body-painting exhibitions, a bull riding competition and much more. For more information, visit www.harrahs.com/getoutinac.
Perry signs anti-gay group's marriage pledge
Officials at the National Organization for Marriage said candidates who sign their pledge are taking a "winning position," but others say it will hurt their efforts to win over independent voters.
Denver Film Society and Design OnScreen Present the 2011 Architecture+Design Film Series
Celebrate the best in films on architecture and design at nine special screening events, including stimulating discussions with dynamic filmmakers, architects and design experts, plus receptions hosted by Denver's favorite eateries.
Films will screen on Thursday evenings and Saturday afternoons during the Series, with a special closing night screening and reception on the evening of Saturday, Oct. 1. All evening films in the Series are Colorado premieres and, on Sept. 29 the festival will feature the world premiere screening of EAMES: The Architect and the Painter. For tickets and more information, please visit www.denverfilm.org or www.designonscreen.org.
Monday, August 29, 2011
Freedom to Serve - celebrating the repeal of Don't Ask, Don't Tell
Special shout out to my good buddy John Kelly for organizing this worthwhile event. Thank you for your years of service and congratulations on finally being able to be open and honest about who you are and what you did for our country, John.
Comedy Works celebrates 30 years in Denver ... and Joe Rogan looks good shirtless
In addition to Larimer Square, Comedy Works South at the Landmark is turning three in early October. Both locations will be celebrating with numerous events, promotions, contests and a special lineup that includes Bob Saget, Darrell Hammond, Bob Marley, Bruce Bruce, Sinbad and Jake Johannsen, to name a few.
Wende Curtis, the owner of both locations, says, “We’re turning 30 but we’re telling everyone we’re still 29! It's truly an honor and a privilege to carry the torch for this proud and historic comedy club that has become a Denver institution. On behalf of our amazing staff and all of the great comedians we're so fortunate to work with, I'd like to extend a huge "thanks" to the loyal comedy fans in Denver who've made this 30th anniversary possible."
Things to do in Denver when you're gay: Labor Day White Party at Tracks
I actually took my 18-year old niece to Tracks last Thursday for her first 18+ night and we had a really great time. I thought it would be a little bit awkward but it wasn't. Well, except for the fact that when I picked her up we were both wearing the same outfit. Somebody had to change out of their size zero booty shorts and extra small tank top and you know it wasn't me!
CGRA announces new Board of Directors
President - Robert ThurtellVice President - Rich Valdez
Secretary - CD Slusser
Treasurer - David Hill
Trustee - John Beck
Rodeo Director - Mary Munger
Public Relations Chair - Dan Rutledge
Fundraising Chair - Rocky Buruse (pictured left, looking all cute)
Membership Chair- John Hill
Entertainment Chair - Tommy Channel
Rodeo Gymkhana Event Chair - Kim Fry
Community Outreach Chair - Pauline Chavez
Congratulations to the new Board of Directors and congrats to CGRA on 30 years as one of Colorado's oldest and most well-respected gay institutions.
Wednesday, August 24, 2011
Connexion.org closing doors September 14
This just in from the gang at Connexion.org:
After 8 years of operation we have decided to close Connexion on Wednesday September 14. This was a tough decision that we know will impact nearly 200,000 members on Connexion and we will miss the community that Connexion has become (and even a few of the flame wars on Q&Q).
It has been a fantastic 8 years and we've all made a lot of great friends that we don't want to lose contact with. The site will remain open until September 14 for messaging people so you can communicate with your friends here and find alternate ways of contacting them.
Though 2011 has been the best year for us in terms of income and site growth it has not been enough to make us profitable. We feel those funds can best be directed towards other philanthropic efforts.
Regards, Tim, Brandon, Ladd and the rest the folks at Connexion
After 8 years of operation we have decided to close Connexion on Wednesday September 14. This was a tough decision that we know will impact nearly 200,000 members on Connexion and we will miss the community that Connexion has become (and even a few of the flame wars on Q&Q).
It has been a fantastic 8 years and we've all made a lot of great friends that we don't want to lose contact with. The site will remain open until September 14 for messaging people so you can communicate with your friends here and find alternate ways of contacting them.
Though 2011 has been the best year for us in terms of income and site growth it has not been enough to make us profitable. We feel those funds can best be directed towards other philanthropic efforts.
Regards, Tim, Brandon, Ladd and the rest the folks at Connexion
Sneaky Sound System - We Love
Sneaky Sound System has released the cheekiest of videos for their new single "We Love." This is the first single off their forthcoming third album From Here To Anywhere, which will be released by Modular in October digitally, with a physical release to follow in November, and it's goooooood. "We Love" is currently available on iTunes.
Bayard Rustin: The openly gay leader who organized the 1963 March on Washington
Since the march, the "Rustin Initiative" has been launched to bridge civil rights groups and LGBT communities.
Log Cabin to honor Sens. Brown, Collins for helping to end Don't Ask, Don't Tell
The event will take place the same day the ban on openly gay members of the military officially ends.
Ugandan government at odds over 'Kill the Gays' bill
Uganda's so-called "kill the gays" bill continues to advance through Parliament, despite an attempt by the Ugandan cabinet to stop it.Adolf Mwesige, a lawyer for the country's ruling party, has told the Cabinet that the measure is not needed because other statutes already made being gay a crime. But Parliament reportedly has triggered a rule allowing them to resume consideration of legislation from a prior session.
Photo from Ugandan newspaper Rolling Stone (no relation, I'm sure) via MoralGround.com.
Tuesday, August 23, 2011
Free Music Download: Nicole Sherzinger - Right There
Mexico City celebrates 1000th gay marriage
New immigration enforcement policy to benefit same-sex couples
The Obama administration recently announced a new immigration enforcement policy that will focus resources on high-priority individuals who pose a threat to national security and safety. Though the policy does not rule out enforcement for specific categories of undocumented immigrants, officials said it meant that cases involving same-sex couples and others with strong family ties in the U.S. would no longer be the focus of efforts to deport those in the country illegally.
"The new policy will end, at least for now, the deportations of gay people legally married to their same-sex American citizen partners, and it may extend to other people in same-sex partnerships," said Richard Socarides, who worked on LGBT issues in the Clinton administration.
No word yet on whether the policy will affect the deportation proceedings against John Makk.
"The new policy will end, at least for now, the deportations of gay people legally married to their same-sex American citizen partners, and it may extend to other people in same-sex partnerships," said Richard Socarides, who worked on LGBT issues in the Clinton administration.
No word yet on whether the policy will affect the deportation proceedings against John Makk.
Monday, August 22, 2011
New Music: Leona Lewis - Collide
“Collide” will be released at all digital retailers on September 6 but you can here it today on www.leonalewismusic.com.
Check out Jack Mackenroth's junk in the (swim)trunk
It's too late to order one for Gay Day at Waterworld but hey, there's always next year!
Now if you'll excuse me, I'll be at the gym for the next 12 months.
Sign the petition to stop the deportation of Anthony John Makk
Yet because of the Defense of Marriage Act, Anthony hasn’t been able to get residency through his legal marriage to Bradford -- as an opposite-sex spouse would. Bradford’s request asking that his husband be granted a path to citizenship and Anthony’s application for permanent residency were denied on July 26. As of August 25, Anthony faces the threat of deportation.
After reading about Anthony and Bradford’s situation, New Yorker Matthew Mackey started a petition asking the Obama administration to allow Anthony to stay in the U.S. Already, more than 17,000 people have signed the petition.
Click here to join Matthew’s petition on behalf of Anthony and Bradford. Some days after leaving their home, Bradford is suddenly wracked with pain so severe that he can’t walk. Anthony is the one who picks Bradford up wherever he is, takes him home, and nurses him. Bradford says he has no one else to care for him. If Anthony is deported, Bradford will have to choose: Either he loses his health insurance and leaves the doctors prolonging his life -- or he lives his last days without Anthony.
The Department of Homeland Security can decide not to enforce removal orders -- or even to cancel them -- allowing Anthony to stay. They’ve already done so for other couples. Recently, after more than 12,000 people signed a Change.org petition to save Venezuelan Alex Benshimol’s marriage to Californian Doug Gentry, an immigration judge postponed Alex’s deportation hearing by two years. If Anthony wins a reprieve, the victory will spur momentum for other same-sex couples seeking immigration rights.
Logo's 'Real Gay' comes to Denver for Drag Nation
Presale tickets are $10 and include a fabulous meet-and-greet with the queens of 'RuPaul's Drag Race.'
Christian magazine prints gay ad after public outcry
GLAAD created the ad with the Ali Forney Center, the nation’s largest organization serving homeless LGBT youth, after the magazine rejected print advertisements from the LGBT Christian congregational welcoming campaign, Believe Out Loud. In response to public outcry about the decision, Sojourners President and founder, Jim Wallis, stated that while he supports LGBT-inclusion in places of worship, Sojourners is meant to address issues of “poverty, racial justice, stewardship of the creation, and the defense of life and peace.”
GLAAD contacted Sojourners regarding its advertising and editorial policies. When representatives reiterated that Sojourners is committed to issues including poverty and homelessness, GLAAD discussed how LGBT people are deeply affected by those issues. GLAAD successfully advocated for the inclusion of a full-page ad spotlighting facts about homelessness among LGBT youth. Additionally, Sojourners agreed to run a series of blog posts about LGBT youth and homelessness.
“Engaging faith communities with messages that encourage parents to support their gay and transgender children is a crucial step in reducing the number of LGBT youth left homeless by unwelcoming families,” said GLAAD’s Director of Religion, Faith & Values Ross Murray. “By running this ad, Sojourners is sending a strong message to millions of Christians that all children – gay and straight – deserve to be loved.”
"The Ali Forney Center has been overwhelmed with thousands of LGBT youth seeking help after being discarded by their families,” said Executive Director of the Ali Forney Center, Carl Siciliano. “Far too many of these youths described being rejected because of their parents' religious beliefs. We hope to help the Christian community understand the terrible sufferings LGBT youth endure through homelessness, and how family rejection endangers their lives. No child should be forced to survive alone on the streets."
GLAAD’s Religion, Faith & Values Program works to elevate LGBT-affirming voices of faith in mainstream, regional and community media. For more information, visit .
Thursday, August 18, 2011
Things to do in Denver when you're gay: (Unofficial) Gay Day at Waterworld
Click here to pre-buy discounted tickets or you can bring in a non-perishable can food donation or can of Diet Pepsi for $6 off ticket price on Saturday.
Things to do in Denver when you're gay: Denver Modernism Show
The hotly anticipated 6th Annual Denver Modernism Show
hits town August 26-28, with more than 100 booths of vintage and
contemporary modern design, home decor and art. Held every year at the
National Western Complex Expo Hall, the event draws buyers, sellers and
modernism fans from across the US.
"We have a great reputation nationally," says
organizer Dana Cain. "And more folks are planning their vacations around
our show, which is nice. Every year, we seem to get bigger and
better."
Part of the draw, in addition to the eye-popping retro show
floor, is the event schedule. The Denver Modernism Show is
known for it's fun, party-like atmosphere. The Miss Modernism Pageant,
held Friday night at 8pm, became an instant classic when it debuted last
year. Contestants vie for the sash and crown that also comes with a $500
shopping spree at the show, and a free ticket to Palm Springs Modernism Week in
February.
Other entertainment this year includes Honey Touche and the
Touchettes ( imagine if the Rockettes had been GoGo Girls ), a vintage fashion
show spanning 3 decades, The Beloved Invaders (surf music) and Vibes on Velvet.
DJs will also factor into the mix this year. The full event schedule is online
at
On Sunday, the post-atomic cars roll in! The Denver Modernism Car Show: Stylish
at Any Speed features free car entry, and
a plethora of category prizes and ribbons, leading up to the $200 cash prize
for "BEST IN SHOW." The show features the best of
mid-century auto design, from big fins to muscle cars and more, US and
foreign-made.
Charles Phoenix, America's favorite histo-tainer,
dubbed "the King of Retro" by the LA Times, returns to the Denver Modernism Show
as MC again this year. Phoenix
will be hosting the Miss Modernism Pageant, judging the Car Show, and treating
fans to samples of his wondrous new Fried Cereal recipe at the Charles
Phoenix Test Kitchen booth.
Once again, the Tiki Lounge is open all three days with
tiki drinks, tiki vendors and tiki artwork. The popular lounge is hosted
by the The Kahanui Chapter of The Fraternal order of Moai. And the juried
Denver Modernism Gallery art show is up for all three days, with the Art Awards
being presented Friday night at 7:30 pm. This year's jurors are Michael
Paglia (art critic, Westword, Art Ltd. Art News) and Robert Delaney (artist and
owner of Popular Culture).
Tickets are $8 on Saturday and Sunday (includes admission to
the post-atomic Car Show) and children under 12 are admitted free. Friday
Preview Party tickets (7 - 10 pm) are $20, and there are a limited number
of VIP Early Preview Gala tickets (5 - 7 pm) for $40. VIP tickets also act
as weekend passes, good for all events. More info, and online ticket sales are
all at www.denvermodernism.com
Teen becomes sixth student to sue Minn. school district over bullying
She is the sixth student to sue the school district over its policy on sexual orientation, which requires teachers to adopt a neutral stance on LGBT issues in the classroom.
OMD - New Babies, New Toys
OMD, one of the UK’s most iconic
bands, are returning to the U.S. and Canada for an extensive 21-stop
North American tour this fall following their sold-out and highly
praised spring run earlier this year.
Monday, August 15, 2011
Free music download: Blush - Undivided
Wondering what to wear to Gay Day at Waterworld? Check out Timeteo swimwear!
Wondering what to wear to Gay Day at Waterworld this Saturday? Get some swimspiration from this behind-the-scenes video with photographer Allen Zaki and model Ryan Lewis for Timoteo's Spring 2011 swimwear. Photographed in Venice Beach, CA. - via DailyJocks.com
Things to do in Denver when you're gay: Gay Day at Waterworld
Pack your skimpiest bathing suit, sunscreen and a beach towel and come for the hot gays, cool water and thrilling rides! Waterworld is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and we plan on coming early and staying late!
You can pre-buy special discounted tickets at www.waterworldcolorado.com/discounts.html.
And for you surferboys, be sure to catch some waves on Waterworld's new million-dollar Thunder Bay!
Friday, August 12, 2011
Out ex-military members set to return to duty after DADT repeal
"I think military service is in my blood" said Thomas Cook (pictured), a discharged serviceman who plans on joining the U.S. Air Force. "I'm looking forward to going back into the military as soon as I can."
GLAAD, Adcolor name first Advocate Award recipients
The ADCOLOR Industry Coalition (AIC) announces its partnership with the Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD) to create the first-ever Advocate Award in recognition of industry influencers from the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community. Ad agency visionaries Laurence Boschetto, CEO & president of Draftfcb and Aaron Walton, co-founder of Walton | Isaacson, are the 2011 recipients of the inaugural Advocate Award. Boschetto and Walton will be honored at the fifth annual ADCOLOR Awards and Industry Conference to be held at the Beverly Hilton in Los Angeles, September 16-17.
"The ADCOLOR Industry Coalition was founded to shine a spotlight on people and organizations that are dedicated to diversity and providing a voice for those who are often unrecognized and underrepresented in our industry," says Tiffany R. Warren, founder of ADCOLOR, The ADCOLOR Awards & Industry Conference and senior vice president, chief diversity officer for Omnicom Group Inc. "We are therefore honored and proud to partner with GLAAD to present this new awards category designed to uplift those whose work in turn uplifts and gives a voice to the gay and lesbian community."
"Throughout their careers, Laurence and Aaron have both set the standard for advertising and marketing efforts that embrace diversity and creativity," said Mike Thompson, Acting President of GLAAD. "These honorees show first hand that including our community in campaigns not only impacts the bottom line, but sends an important message about the contribution of LGBT people to the American cultural fabric to consumers and other corporations."
Find out more after the jump.
Registration for the 2011 ADCOLOR Awards and Industry Conference is now open. Log on to www.adcolor.org for complete registration information.
The 2011 ADCOLOR & Industry Conference is presented by The ADCOLOR Industry Coalition and sponsored by Google, Microsoft Advertising, DIAGEO, GLAAD, The One Club, Publicis USA, Pepsico,
The American Advertising Federation, BBDO, CNN, Omnicom Group, ADWEEKMEDIA, 4A's, The
Advertising Club of NY, Arnold Worldwide, Deutsch, Draftfcb, GTM, Inc., Iced Media, McCann Worldgroup, RAPP, The Results Driven Agency, Ruder Finn Multicultural & Image Marketing, SBS Studios LLC, Sonicbids.com, TBWA\Chiat Day, Time Warner and Wieden + Kennedy.
Laurence Boschetto
Laurence Boschetto is the CEO & president of Draftfcb, a global advertising agency network. Mr. Boschetto assumed this role in February 2009, after serving as the president and chief operating officer of Draftfcb since June 2006.
Earlier in his career, Mr. Boschetto was vice president and corporate advertising director at Manufacturers Hanover Trust. From there, he served as executive vice president of account services and strategic planning at Edwin Bird Wilson. He was a founding member of Adler Boschetto Peebles, which was acquired by Draft in 1997. Boschetto, a proponent of developing data analytic systems, then served as the general manager of Draft's New York office until Draft merged with Foote, Cone & Belding in June, 2006, to form Draftfcb.
A native of Boston, Boschetto received his B.A. and M.B.A. from Iona College in New York. Mr. Boschetto was elected to the board of directors of the American Advertising Federation in 2008. He also serves on the advisory board of the Coalition for the Homeless and supports the First Step program, which offers employment to women who have lost their homes.
"It is an honor to be recognized by ADCOLOR and GLAAD for this inaugural award. To me, it represents my long-held belief that people are people, and prejudice of any kind cannot be tolerated," said Laurence Boschetto, CEO and president of Draftfcb. "While there is still much work to be done, I will continue to fight for inclusion for people of all colors, religions and sexual orientations in the ad industry and beyond. It is not merely our business responsibility, it is our business obligation to create a climate that embraces and celebrates diversity because it helps us all elevate our performance."
Aaron Walton
Aaron Walton is co-founder of Walton | Isaacson (W|I), a full service advertising agency, with offices in Los Angeles, Chicago, New York and Tokyo. His boundless creativity and strategic acumen have made him one of the most admired executives throughout advertising, brand marketing and the entertainment industry. Walton has just been honored with the advertising and marketing industry's prestigious ADCOLOR® Award for Lifetime Achievement and was selected by Out magazine as one of the "100 Most Compelling People of 2010."
"I'm grateful to both ADCOLOR and GLAAD for this honor, and remain humbled by the tremendous accomplishments that people in the LGBT community have made to the advertising industry", said Aaron Walton Co-Founder, Walton Isaacson. "For decades, our community has shared our talent and humanity with the world, without really being able to share who we are as human beings. This award acknowledges the vital role that LGBT executives play across many disciplines in the advertising industry (including creative, account, production and finance). For me, this honor is further validation that our agency's focus on diversity has given us a strategic advantage and compelled our clients to face the world the way we want the world to face us: with honestly, creativity and a focus on extending the communication message to broader consumer segment."
Walton's ability to tap into entertainment and pop culture in order to achieve corporate marketing objectives and enduring resonance with consumers has led him to forge some of the most successful, high-profile partnerships between iconic popular entertainers (including Michael Jackson, Reba McIntire, Diddy, Ricky Martin and Whitney Houston) and blue chip brands, including Pepsi, AT&T, Frito-Lay, Toyota and Caesars Entertainment.
Walton began his career as a marketing executive with the Pepsi-Cola Company in Purchase, New York. He joined Pepsi-Cola as a marketing analyst and was quickly promoted to brand management for the Pepsi and Mountain Dew Brands. Walton's resounding knowledge of the entertainment industry and pop culture proved invaluable to a company that was making huge competitive gains through its identification with popular music. He soon became Entertainment Marketing Manager for Pepsi and developed the entertainment marketing strategy for the entire company.
Walton has received numerous advertising and creative awards. Under his leadership, his agency was named Southern California's Minority "Supplier Of The Year" for their work with Toyota Motor Sales Lexus Division in both 2010 and 2011. Walton is a board advisor for the HollyRod Foundation, which is dedicated to providing compassionate care to those living with Autism and Parkinson's disease.
Born in 1961, Walton grew up in Massachusetts and attended Babson College in Wellesley, MA. In 1983, he received a Bachelor of Science Degree with a double major in Management/Organizational Behavior and Communications. As just one of two African-American students in his graduating class, Walton was elected student body president in 1982, and recently completed his appointed term as a Trustee at the college.
About the ADCOLOR Industry Coalition
The ADCOLOR Industry Coalition is a 501(c)(6) organization that was founded in 2005. The AIC seeks to support and inspire professionals of color and diversity champions within the advertising, marketing and media industries by celebrating the accomplishments of diverse role models and industry leaders. As its first initiative, The ADCOLOR Industry Coalition launched the ADCOLOR Awards in 2007 to promote increased diversity in the advertising, marketing and media industries.
For all ADCOLOR® Awards & Industry Conference information, please visit ADCOLOR's microsite, designed by SBS Studios LLC, at www.adcolor.org.
Free music download: Merlin Moon - Believe/Born
Merlin Moon has released the video and MP3 for his promo-only dance single "Believe/Born Slippy Remix" (Produced & mixed by Merlin Moon and SubClones) as a free download for fans who sign up at his website.
About the song, Merlin says, "The song lyrics say, 'If you want to believe in what you are, you have to believe that you're beautiful'. The idea behind the video is to let people know its OK to question their sexuality and simply be themselves."
The 5 Hottest Bearracuda Photos
Thursday, August 11, 2011
Free music download: DJ Matt Consola - Bearracuda Bonanza
MileHighGayGuy.com is a proud sponsor of Bearracuda.
Wednesday, August 10, 2011
Hot stuff! Check out Jack Mackenroth's sizzling new calendar
Jack Mackenroth, athlete, reality TV star and nationally known HIV advocate and and educator, has just released a 2012 autographed calendar (NSFWish), and 100% of proceeds will go directly to amfAR! The 15-month calendar will feature an array of Jack's hottest photos from many of the industry's leading photographers.
“I
have amassed such an amazing collection of images that I wanted to put
out a calendar that will help to combat the silence and stigma
associated with being HIV-positive,” says Mackenroth. He adds, “If I can
raise money for HIV/AIDS research, it’s even better.”
Jack
has been a vocal and visible advocate of the HIV community, touring the
country through numerous speaking engagements and special appearances
at events. He continues to speak around the country and will be
planning calendar signing events in the upcoming months. His memoir,
“Making Lemonaids” will be released this winter.
Free music download: Kitty Clementine - It's Been Real
Australian songstress Kitty Clementine recently released the video for her song "Alone," which focuses on bullying.
And now she's offering her new song, 'It's Been Real', as a free download.
Who are the most important gays in history?
Gay presidential candidate denied debate participation
A FOX News official said Karger does not meet the requirements to join the debate.
Obama: Human rights violators won't be allowed into U.S.
"The Council praises this move, which could in principle be used to justify the exclusion of hate-promoting politicians like Ugandan parliamentarian David Bahati, who introduced a 'kill the gays bill' in a previous legislative session in Uganda and may do so again," said Mark Bromley (pictured), chairman of the Council for Global Equality.
Membership has its priveleges: 25% off Nuwear underwear for DailyJocks.com members
DailyJocks.com members get 25% off Nuwear underwear through the month of August.
Bearracuda: Bears on film (at Folsom)
Bearracuda is coming to Denver and will be serving up more hot music, hot bears and a hot time on August 19 at Tracks.
MileHighGayGuy.com is proud to be a sponsor of Bearracuda!
Tuesday, August 9, 2011
Bearracuda on Facebook
Bearracuda is co-sponsored by MileHighGayGuy.com.
Monday, August 8, 2011
HRC Releases State Toolkit for Hate Crimes Prevention Laws
“The passage of the Matthew Shepard and James Byrd, Jr. Hate Crimes Prevention Act was a huge victory for our community – but much work remains to be done to reduce hate-motivated crimes, and much of that work falls to the states,” said HRC President Joe Solmonese. “We must do everything we can to educate state officials on the importance of addressing hate crimes and equipping them with the tools they need to successfully prevent and legislate against these types of incidents.”
Hate crimes based on sexual orientation make up the third-highest category of all hate crimes reported annually to the FBI, after race and religion. Unfortunately, data on hate crimes based on gender identity has not been collected by many states and is not collected by the FBI. HRC has been working closely with the FBI to implement a mandate contained in the HCPA that requires the federal government to begin collecting statistics on gender identity hate crimes.
HRC is distributing the guide to hate crime coalition allies, key individuals at the Department of Justice and every state-level equality organization. It also will be distributed at a hate crime presentation during the upcoming Equality Federation Summer Meeting. To assist advocates, law enforcement officials and lawmakers with implementation, HRC will host a webinar on the toolkit on October 28, 2011 at 2:00pm ET – the two-year anniversary of President Obama’s signing of the HCPA. Register now.
An electronic copy of the toolkit, A Guide to State-Level Advocacy Following the Enactment of the Matthew Shepard and James Byrd, Jr. Hate Crimes Prevention Act, is available online. More information about HRC’s work on hate crimes is available at www.hrc.org/issues/hate_crimes.asp.
Here Media introduces Gay.net
“This is an exciting project for our team because it
expands our editorial in a way that is unlike any other LGBT website,”
says Rick Andreoli, Gay.net’s Editor in Chief. “The
stories are young and contemporary, covering pop culture and style from a fun
and irreverent point of view. At the same time Gay.net offers thought-provoking topics that are important to
our readers, such as the effect of the ‘Don’t Ask Don’t
Tell’ repeal and marriage equality. Additionally, Gay.net provides the
ideal outlet for our growing list of advertisers to reach a young, dynamic, and
important consumer base.”
Gay.net’s specialized content
features a mix of editorial voices and opinions reflecting the diversity of gay
culture. Upon visiting, Gay.net readers
have immediate access to the nine most recent features and news headlines
through the site’s “The It List.” Additionally, a horizontal
thread across the bottom of the homepage allows readers to see the day’s
most popular trending stories. A unique feature to the new site is the new
“The Randomizer” tool, which, which clicked on, automatically pulls
an arbitrary headline that a reader may have missed but may be of interest.
Denver Element wants to know 'What's Safe To You?'
Bear Wear: Bearracuda t-shirts
T-shirts available at Bearracuda.com. Don't know if the guy's available or not but if he is, he should call me.
Sunday, August 7, 2011
UFC up in arms over MMA fighter's briefs. MileHighGayGuy not so much.
And if you're hoping for a wardrobe malfunction, you're in luck! Click here for footage of Hallman's weiner slip during UFC 133.
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