Human Rights Campaign Denounces Pence’s 2024 White House Bid

The Human Rights Campaign — America’s largest LGBTQ+ civil rights organization — released the following statement in response to today’s news that Former Vice President Mike Pence has officially filed his papers to run for President in 2024: 

“In the past two presidential elections, the majority of American people rejected the Trump-Pence ticket and the hateful, theocratic extremism associated with MAGA leadership, said Human Rights Campaign President Kelley Robinson. “Mike Pence’s vision for the country is dangerously out of step with the average American’s views on freedom and equality, and his potential presidency would create devastating consequences for the safety of the LGBTQ+ community and the ability of our people to live as full members of society. At a time when far-right groups are influencing horrific legislation in state legislatures like never before, we will need to ensure that Pence, who has deep ties to the likes of Alliance Defending Freedom and Focus on the Family, will never replicate the same hate from the most powerful position in the country.”  

“The Human Rights Campaign will work to mobilize the 62 million ‘Equality Voters’ — for whom LGBTQ+ equality is a make-or-break issue — to stand together in opposition to Pence’s candidacy, and to keep the previous administration’s destructive hate and bigotry forever a thing of the past.” 

A polling memo released recently by the Human Rights Campaign highlights a series of recent national polls revealing that Americans are growing increasingly opposed to anti-LGBTQ+ legislation spearheaded by DeSantis and other extremist lawmakers, finding the push excessive and nothing more than “political theater.”

• 64% of all likely voters think there is “too much legislation” aimed at “limiting the rights of transgender and gay people in America” — including 72% of Democrats, 65% of Independents, and 55% of Republicans [source].
• Two recent national surveys report opposition to bans on gender affirming care — one indicating 54% opposition [source] and the other indicating 53% opposition [source].
• Nearly six in 10 (58%) Americans oppose laws that would restrict drag shows or performances in their state, while 39% support legislation to restrict these performances. While 61% of Republicans are in favor of these bans, 73% of Democrats and 57% of Independents oppose the proposed limitations [source].
• Majorities disapprove of banning LGBTQ+ content in schools — nearly 60% of Americans believe middle school libraries should include materials related to “gender identity” and “sexual orientation” [source]. 

Tivo in cahoots with Focus on the Family? Part 3

I called up Focus on the Family to see what they had to say about their partnership with Tivo KidZone.

Focus on the Family's Corporate Publicity Director Lisa Anderson returned my phone call later and responded that Focus on the Family was "not gonna weigh in on the story right now."

According to Family.org, "KidZone empowers parents to choose programming that they approve and filter their selections through their TiVo receiver. TiVo also gives parents insight on specific programs, so they can feel more confident in handing the remote to the kids!" (There are even special offers on Tivo's website for "Focus on the Family constituents.")

Focus on the Family focusing on fear with new ad campaign

Focus on the Family Action has begun running a new round of radio advertisements attacking state legislators who supported SB 200.

These malicious ads prey upon the misinformed and suggest that prohibiting discrimination based upon sexual orientation and transgender status will permit sexual predators to molest children in public restrooms.

Their tactics are shameful and their claims are ridiculous, but they think they can keep repeating their lies often enough to scare people into believing them.

We must fight back! Here are two ways:

1. Call Focus on the Family and ask them to “Quit Focusing on Fear!” Their attempt to stereotype GLBT persons as sexual predators is demeaning and offensive. Their attempt to bully Gov. Ritter and state legislators is nothing more than a smear campaign. Call Focus on the Family at 1-800-232-6459 and demand a stop to their fear campaign.

2. Call Governor Bill Ritter and thank him for signing SB 200 and standing up to the fear-based tactics of bullies like Focus on the Family. Our opponents have flooded the Governor’s office with thousands of phone calls. We need your voice of reason to be heard – please thank Gov. Ritter and our friends in the state legislature for supporting equal rights. Call Governor Ritter at 303-866-2471 and thank him for signing SB 200.

What if Tim Tebow was gay instead of religious?

By Todd Craig

Yes, former Denver Broncos quarterback Tim Tebow has always been known for his devout Christian beliefs, and as far as I know, he's as straight as a chalk line at a construction site.

A little history lesson: The third year quarterback's professional career before last year was defined mostly by a relatively tame pro-life ad during the 2010 Super Bowl that he starred in for Colorado Springs' own homo-hating organization, Focus on the Family.

But all that changed last season when he led the Denver Broncos on a miraculous six-game winning streak last year, and it seemed as if Tebow-mania had captivated the entire nation. The Broncos, a mediocre team at best in 2011, had risen from the dead and an 0-4 start thanks to the pluck and verve of the devout, young, and hunky quarterback who was as quick with a prayer as he was with an opportune touchdown at the end of the game.

Quickly, Tebow's faith came to be a flashpoint that spread throughout the media. Tebowing, the act of kneeling in prayer, became a national phenomenon. With each new win, the legend of Tebow continued to grow. There were Saturday NightLive skits starring Tebow and Jesus. ESPN and news programs struck ratings gold every time Tebow's jersey flashed across the screen. The religious fervor exemplified by the quarterback's public statements and demonstrations of his beliefs ramped up a debate about faith and football and whether or not the two could co-exist.

I'll admit, as a Broncos fan, I loved watching my team win again, but as a gay man I was having serious reservations. Tebow's play seemed to elevate that of his teammates. And more than once, I found myself thinking that I'd love that Tebow kid more if he just kept his religious beliefs to himself. Why did he have to make such a public spectacle of his beliefs? After all, how is any self-respecting gay man going to root for a guy who's the poster boy for Focus on the Family?

Somewhere about that time, I was at the gym, putting in my miles on the treadmill and staring at the various TV screens in front of me. Fox News had a panel discussion asking if Tebow was the victim of discrimination because of his religion. The talking heads argued about the freedom of religion. The general consensus, unsurprisingly, was that Tebow was judged more harshly because of his religious views, and that Tebow was the victim of society that looked down upon him because of his outward expression of his love of Jesus.

That's when it occurred to me.

What if his outward expressions of love were romantic ones for another man?

Let's say that after each touchdown instead of prayer, he pointed to his boyfriend in the stands and blew him a kiss. What if after his interview he thanked his husband for his love and support instead of Jesus? What if instead of delivering Easter sermons Tim Tebow rode a float in a gay pride parade or spoke to the revelers at the White Party?

I'm going to say with some certainty that the talking heads on Fox might be singing a different tune about Tebow – just as I would.

If the above scenario proved true, we gays would be reveling in our new-found football hero. We'd buy his jerseys just as we buy Gaga's CDs. We'd tune in for Tebow Time just as we tune in for awards shows hosted by Neil Patrick Harris. We'd buy magazines with him on the cover and pine after him just as we do for Ricky Martin. And when the religious groups would protest, we'd always have his back because, after all, love is love, and he should be able to express his love in any way he wants.

Much the same way the talking heads on Fox News just had just done on the TV in front of me.

As I consider Tebow now, I wonder if there isn't a part of me that isn't being just a tad bit hypocritical. Sure, our beliefs are different. And yes, he represents an organization - Focus on the Family - that is reprehensible. But if we gays want to be out and proud, if we want to express and celebrate our love in public as well as at home, then perhaps it is wrong to resent Tebow for doing essentially the same thing for his lord and savior.

So, as Tebow departs our little corner of the universe to go take his unique brand of ball and Bible to the burroughs of New York, I'm left asking myself what it all meant. For the Broncos, I'd say it means an upgrade in their QB position with the arrival of Peyton Manning, a former Colt star (No, not that kind of Colt star!). For Tebow's faithful, well, I'm sure they'll stand by their man.

In the end, maybe the lesson to be learned from Tebow-mania is not that public expressions of love for Jesus can be polarizing, but rather that all demonstrations of love, in whatever form they take, have the beauty and power to inspire thought and understanding. As we in the LGBT community look to the future of our quest for acceptance and legal rights, we must remember that love is not just what we're fighting for, but it is also our most powerful weapon.

Focus on the Family recently released a newspaper advertisement opposing recently-passed Senate Bill 200.

Senate Bill 200 was a momentous victory for the Colorado LGBT community, especially in Colorado Springs, as it prohibits discrimination based on sexual orientation and transgender status with regard to housing and public accomodations. Focus on the Family’s campaign is not based on the reality of the Bill, but rather on misinformation and fear-mongering.

Read more about what you can do after the jump.




CALL TO ACTION!
Right now, the legislators who stood up to support equal rights for all people are being bombarded with calls from Focus on the Family's supporters. THEY NEED TO HEAR FROM US! Focus on the Family has developed this ad campaign as a scare tactic to encourage uninformed individuals to call their representatives in hopes of preventing future equal rights bills from passing. Please take just a moment to call and/or write our legislators to let them know we do care, and we are glad they stood up for equality by passing SB200. John Morse is the represenative from Colorado Springs listed in the ads. Let's work together to show John Morse how much we appreciate him taking a stand for equality on behalf of Colorado Springs!

Senator John Morse | 719-302-5697 | John.Morse.Senate@state.co.us

Governor Ritter | 303-866-2471

THIS PHONE CALL WILL JUST TAKE A MINUTE! BUT HEARING FROM YOU COULD BE THE VERY THING THESE LEGISLATORS NEED TO PASS THE NEXT ROUND OF EQUAL RIGHTS LEGISLATION!



GLAAD's Worst of 2008

The Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD) today identified the worst anti-gay and anti-transgender voices of 2008.

"In 2008, our community saw our issues and lives receive unprecedented visibility and discussion. We saw more lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) characters on broadcast TV than ever before; movie audiences saw our lives in a new way through films like MILK; and we saw fair and accurate images in the media of loving couples getting married in California and Connecticut, even as we experienced setbacks in California, Arizona, Arkansas and Florida on Election Day," said GLAAD President Neil G. Giuliano.

"Unfortunately, anti-gay activists and media pundits continued to make outrageous claims about our community, and many media outlets persisted in using problematic and defamatory language that affects the way that people view the LGBT community. That's why now, more than ever, we need to capitalize on our community's momentum, make our voices heard and work towards more fair, accurate and inclusive representations of our lives."

GLAAD works with media outlets by responding to defamation and advocating that media coverage of the LGBT community and issues is fair, accurate and inclusive. GLAAD's work to combat the worst anti-LGBT voices in 2008 and examples of their defamation are after the jump:


Anti-Gay Voices of 2008:

Bill O'Reilly (Host, The O'Reilly Factor, FOX News Channel)
http://www.glaad.org/BestAndWorst/May2008.php

Bill O'Reilly, who frequently appears on GLAAD's monthly "Best and Worst of National News," led a one-sided and inaccurate discussion of marriage equality on May 15 with Fox News Channel's Megyn Kelly, who compared marriage for same-sex couples with polygamy and incest. Earlier this year, O'Reilly said Americans don't want to see "homosexual behavior legitimized" in reference to Whoopi Goldberg briefly kissing Katy Perry on The View on July 31, and he criticized Heinz for a TV commercial that included a kiss between two men on June 20. Most recently on December 10, he referred to the staff of the Los Angeles Times as "pinheads" for endorsing the Day Without a Gay protest against Proposition 8.

California's Yes on Proposition 8 Campaign
http://glaadblog.org/2008/10/24/media-coverage-exposes-lies-about-proposition-8/.

The Yes on Proposition 8 campaign filled the airwaves with deliberately misleading commercials about Proposition 8, which eliminated the right to marry for loving and committed same-sex couples in California. The ads relied on scare tactics and spread inflammatory lies, including that the defeat of Proposition 8 would mean changes in schools and churches. These ads used misinformation to shape public opinion and helped sway voters to pass the discriminatory ban, in spite of various legal experts and mainstream media outlets uniformly denouncing the dishonest approach.

Greg Gutfeld (Host, Red Eye, FOX News Channel)
http://www.glaad.org/BestAndWorst/May2008.php
http://www.glaad.org/BestAndWorst/Sept2008.php

FOX News Channel's late-night show Red Eye continued to feature sophomoric jabs at LGBT people. On May 20, host Greg Gutfeld and his guests grossly misrepresented serious medical concerns faced by transgender youth and laughed as one of his guests referred to transition as "turning a hole into a pole."Â Then Gutfeld criticized Ellen DeGeneres for announcing her upcoming wedding, saying Ellen should "shut the hell up about it." In his September 17 blog, Gutfeld ranted about diplomats saying, "These bloated bureaucrats would learn more in two days ducking for cover in Liberia, than two weeks trying to pick up transvestite hookers in Times Square."

James Dobson (Founder, Focus on the Family)
http://www.glaad.org/publications/archive_detail.php?id=4522&PHPSESSID=f  Â
http://www.glaad.org/BestAndWorst/Oct2008.phpÂ
http://glaadblog.org/2008/10/23/make-your-voice-heard-dobson-the-radio-hall-of-fame/

A national media platform gave airtime to an anti-gay activist when James Dobson, founder of anti-gay organization Focus on the Family, appeared on an episode of CNN Headline News and made false claims about Proposition 8, including that if the proposition failed, there would be a "spate of lawsuit against churches" and "all textbooks would have to be republished" and "everything in schools will change." The Museum of Broadcast Communications chose to honor Dobson by inducting Focus on the Family into the Radio Hall of Fame, despite his history of anti-gay rhetoric and lies. GLAAD produced a viral video to raise awareness of Dobson's attacks on the LGBT community and released a Call to Action against the Museum for honoring Dobson's lies and distortions aimed to hurt and marginalize LGBT people.

Jim Quinn (Host, The War Room With Quinn & Rose, Clear Channel)
http://www.glaad.org/action/calls_archive_detail.php?id=4805&Â

During the November 6 broadcast of the nationally syndicated radio program The War Room with Quinn & Rose, co-host Jim Quinn made highly offensive and ignorant statements including "[G]ay marriage doesn't produce anything that the state has an interest in. Gay sex produces AIDS, which the state doesn't have – or should have an interest in. They should charge homosexuals more for their health insurance than they charge the rest of us." Despite numerous complaints from GLAAD's Call to Action, Clear Channel refused to issue an apology and has not disciplined Quinn for his disgusting and unacceptable remarks.

John Gibson (Host, The John Gibson Show, FOX News Radio)
http://www.glaad.org/action/calls_archive_detail.php?id=4189Â
http://www.glaad.org/BestAndWorst/May2008.php

Fox News Radio Host John Gibson was responsible for making made several tasteless, juvenile anti-gay jokes on his program. GLAAD first issued a Call to Action after he mocked the passing of actor Heath Ledger by making anti-gay jokes about his role in Brokeback Mountain on Fox News Radio's The John Gibson Show. As a result of the response by GLAAD's members, Gibson apologized for these remarks, but continued using anti-gay jokes on May 2. During a clip of MSNBC's Rachel Maddow, who is openly gay, Gibson cut to an audio clip of someone saying, "Oh, lesbians! Yummy!"

Laura Ingraham (Host, The Laura Ingraham Show)
http://www.glaad.org/action/calls_archive_detail.php?id=4229

Transgender people were repeatedly used as punching bags by Fox News Channel and guest Laura Ingraham, even as violence and harassment against transgender people continued with disturbing frequency throughout 2008. While guest hosting Fox News Channel's The O'Reilly Factor on February 8, Ingraham interrupted a guest by saying that a transgender conference was "killing the culture." Earlier this year on The O'Reilly Factor, she questioned how parents of a transgender youth "aren't embarrassed" by their child, and most recently, on December 11, she alluded that being gay is a "bad choice" when discussing a Newsweek feature on marriage for same-sex couples.

New York Post
http://www.glaad.org/action/calls_archive_detail.php?id=4192Â Â Â Â Â Â http://www.glaad.org/action/calls_archive_detail.php?id=4221
http://www.glaad.org/BestAndWorst/February2008.php

In 2008, the New York Post continued its long history of sensationalistic treatment of LGBT people and issues with two highly problematic headlines. On January 25, the tabloid printed the headline "Evil Lesbian Mom Left Toddler to Die Slow Death: DA," despite the fact that such a gratuitous description would not have been used were the subject straight. Additionally, on February 7, the Post dehumanized the transgender community by publishing the egregious headline "Axis of She-Vil" and sub-headline, "Death to Gays But Free Ops For Irani Trannies."

Pastor Rick Warren
http://www.glaad.org/media/release_detail.php?id=4878.
http://glaadblog.org/2008/12/19/more-media-coverage-of-rick-warren-inaugural-controversy/
http://glaadblog.org/2008/12/18/past-media-coverage-of-rick-warren/
http://glaadblog.org/2008/12/22/continuing-media-coverage-of-rick-warren-controversy/

Rick Warren has a history of using the media as a platform to spread divisive anti-gay rhetoric. Warren spread inaccuracies about Proposition 8, saying that it would "prevent him from getting up on the pulpit and speaking out against same-sex marriage" on Dateline. He also participated in a video interview with The Wall Street Journal on December 18 where he said that marriage for gay and lesbian couples was the equivalent of "having a brother and sister be together," "an older guy marrying a child" and "one guy having multiple wives." After President-elect Obama chose Warren to lead the invocation at the Presidential inauguration, GLAAD distributed instances of Warren's anti-gay defamation on glaadBLOG as a resource for journalists and bloggers.

Representative Sally Kern (R-OK)
http://www.glaad.org/BestAndWorst/April2008.php

Oklahoma Representative Sally Kern made headlines in March after telling a group of supporters that "the homosexual agenda is destroying our nation" in a gathering of Republicans outside the Capitol. She went on to say that the gay community is "the death knell in this country" and "the biggest threat that our nation has, even more so than terrorism." GLAAD provided media training and media outreach support to local Oklahoma groups to ensure that LGBT advocates were included in local media coverage and balanced the harmful effects of such hateful remarks from an elected official.

Sean Delonas (Cartoonist, New York Post)
http://www.glaad.org/BestAndWorst/June2008.php

The New York Post and cartoonist Sean Delonas, who has been the subject of three GLAAD Calls to Action, continued juvenile treatments of LGBT issues in an editorial cartoon that ran after openly gay actor George Takei announced his upcoming marriage to his partner in California. Delonas drew crew members from Star Trek, which Takei appeared on as Sulu, looking on in disbelief as Takei exchanged nuptials with a man. One character was drawn saying "Totally Illogical, Captain." GLAAD placed a Call to Action to demand that the New York Post stop printing such immature items on their editorial pages.


About GLAAD
The Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD) is dedicated to promoting and ensuring fair, accurate and inclusive representation of people and events in the media as a means of eliminating homophobia and discrimination based on gender identity and sexual orientation. For more information, please visit www.glaad.org.



Stonewall Dems weigh in on SB 200

Last Tuesday, Governor Bill Ritter (D), announced at the Equal Rights Colorado yearly fundraiser that despite overwhelming opposition to SB 200 (better than 3 to 1 opposed), he would be signing the bill as it was really an extension of equal rights to a number of Colorado citizens who had been previously been denied some of these explicit rights. To his credit, and with our gratitude, according to the following article in the Denver Post, Governor Ritter courageously signed into law SB 200 which extends protection from discrimination based upon sexual orientation to a number of areas not previously covered including accommodations. Sexual orientation is defined as including transgender individuals and the perception of being transgender. Again, our thanks to Governor Ritter, from Jeffrey Shaw, Chairman, Colorado Stonewall Democrats:



Ritter signs controversial anti-discrimination bill
By John Ingold
The Denver Post
Article Last Updated: 05/29/2008 06:22:44 PM MDT


Gov. Bill Ritter today quietly signed a controversial bill expanding the prohibition of sexual-orientation-based discrimination, over the vocal opposition of conservative Christian groups like Focus on the Family.

The bill bans discrimination based on a person's religious belief or sexual orientation - including transgender people - in places of public accommodation, housing practices, family planning services and 20 other public spheres. Such prohibitions are already in place with regard to race.

"I think it's a step in the right direction for Coloradans and civil rights," said Sen. Jennifer Veiga, a Denver Democrat who sponsored the bill.

Ritter signed Senate Bill 200 this afternoon in his office, without any of the public ceremonies and news releases that came with six other bills he signed today. His spokesman, Evan Dreyer, said the governor was not deliberately trying to keep the signing quiet. In all, Ritter signed 20 bills today, Dreyer said.

"There were hundreds and hundreds of bills that were passed by the legislature this year," Dreyer said. "We do many ceremonies and many announcements, but in reality we do just a fraction."

But no bill this year has seen the kind of heated post-session attacks that SB 200 has. Focus on the Family launched radio ads and a media campaign urging Ritter to veto the bill.

"The state legislature here in Colorado has frankly become just about as radical and extreme as the California Legislature, in an effort that was designed to obviously appease the homosexual community give access to all public restrooms by people of the opposite gender," Focus on the Family founder James Dobson said Wednesday on his regular radio broadcast, according to an online newsletter from the organization sent out later that day.

Opponents said the bill would have serious consequences, such as opening up Colorado public restrooms and locker rooms to all genders and transgender people, exposing children and women to sexual predators.

Dreyer said opponents were running a campaign of misinformation.

"The claims that are made in this campaign are not based in fact. They are based in fear," Dreyer said.

"All this does," Dreyer added, "is it brings across-the-board consistency to existing anti-discrimination laws."

Bruce DeBoskey, the regional director of the Anti-Defamation League, said the opposition's claims were exaggerated and applauded the signing.

"We think this is another important step in making Colorado safe and inclusive and welcoming to all those who live there," he said.

John Ingold: 303-954-1068 or jingold@denverpost.com



Did the laid off Focus on the Family workers work themselves right out of jobs?

Recently released reports show that Colorado's Focus on the Family spent nearly $700,000 in 2008 to support California's gay marriage ban Prop. 8.

Wanna know what else they did in 2008?

Laid off hundreds of their workers, right before Christmas.

Now, losing a job in this economy is no laughing matter but I have to wonder; did those employees of Focus on the Family work themselves right out of jobs by being so gung-ho to fund and fight the battle against gay rights in California?

Could they have stood up to the powers that be at Focus on the Family and demanded they spend less time and money trying to repress the rights of GLBT citizens and put more money towards keeping them on the payroll? Focusing on their families, so to speak?

Do you think they wish they had?

True colors keep shining through: A conversation with Cyndi Lauper

Music legend and gay icon Cyndi Lauper will be in Denver tomorrow night at the Paramount Theatre. Her most recent album 'Memphis Blues' has spent 12 weeks at the top of the Blues Album Chart.

I was lucky enough to catch up with her recently to talk about her upcoming reality show and autobiography, fighting for gay rights with her True Colors Fund and the Give A Damn Campaign, her thoughts on Lady Gaga, and when we can expect the return of the fabulous True Colors Tour.

Drew: Congratulations on the success of 'Memphis Blues.' You've been putting out a lot of interestingly themed albums in the past few years - blues, acoustic, electronic, standards. What musical styles or influences are left that you would like to explore?
Cyndi: Who knows what I will be doing next? I still have tons up my sleeves. Guess you will just have to wait and see what’s next!

Which of your albums is your personal favorite? How about a favorite song?
Just one? That’s going to be too tough. Because it changes from time to time.

The Give a Damn Campaign, which is a project of your True Colors Fund, is aimed at straight people who are interested in GLBT rights. What would you say are the two or three most important things straight people should know about GLBT rights?
Cyndi: There is so much that people need to know, which is why we created the Give a Damn Campaign. We wanted to create something that took all of the mountains of information out there and break it down to the basics so it was not so overwhelming. There are a ton of facts and information about the many forms of discrimination against gay people that straight people need to know about and can find at www.wegiveadamn.org. But, the most important thing that straight people need to know is that when one group of people's freedom is put up for grabs it means that it could be your group or the group of people that someone you love belongs to that could be next. Either we all are equal or no one is. I would also say that all of us in any majority have a responsibility to stand up as human beings for the minority, to stand up for the underdog. That to me is what being an American is all about.


What do you think gay people can do to enlist more straight people as allies?
The most important thing is to let the straight people in your life - your family, friends, co-workers - know who you are. Share your life with them. Let them know what being a part if a minority feels like, what being discriminated against does to a person. Open up to the people you share a personal connection with, that is the most powerful and meaningful way you can hopefully change people's minds or get people who support equality to get involved for the first time. Same goes for straight people, talk about why your support equality with the other straight people in your life. Lead by example.

You've worked with Lady Gaga on recent projects and she's cited you as an artistic inspiration. What are your thoughts on her as an artist and as a GLBT activist as it pertains to her recent work to repeal Don't Ask, Don't Tell?
There is no one quite like Gaga. She is definitely one of the hardest working girls out there. I adore her. I am blown away by her performances, everything from the energy to her passion on stage. Working together on the MAC Viva Glam campaign and talking about HIV/AIDS prevention for women has been really important to the both of us. We have a lot in common and have become friends through the work we are doing together. I admire her for the recent work to repeal DADT. Good for her. I always feel that if you are famous it's good to use your fame to help others. Give a voice to a cause that needs it. Its payback and it's the right thing to do.

I hear you're working on an autobiography. What will it be called and why write it now?
I am writing an autobiography that will be released via Simon & Schuster in late 2011. I am in the middle of writing right now so ask me this question again next time we chat!

What is that process of writing an autobiography like and can you give us any hints about the juiciest bits or most interesting chapters?
Its a bit like therapy. I am working with a great writer named Jancee Dunn, who was a writer for Rolling Stone -where we first met - and has gone on to write some really great books. As for the process, we spend time together, I write her long emails, we get together to talk, I write some more to send to her, she sends it back. It's focused on my life from the age of seventeen when I left home for the first time.

You were a huge hit on 'Celebrity Apprentice'. What was the experience like for you?
I had a blast on the show. I wanted to play for the True Colors Fund and knew so many people watch the show that it could really help me push the mission of the fund forward. If I had to do it all over again I would so I could raise even more money for the True Colors fund and have another chance to talk about civil rights and the gay community.

I hear you have your own reality show in the works. What's it going to be like?
Yes, I did a deal with Mark Burnett Productions before I signed on to 'Celebrity Apprentice'. Mark Burnett is probably the most successful producers of Reality TV so I am really happy to be in partnership with them The folks there are smart and creative and I think it's going to be a lot of fun to do. I love the medium so I'm excited about it. It is going to mostly be about me and my day to day life as I focus on my career. We start filming in January.

Are you a fan of any other reality shows? Who's your favorite castmember of 'Jersey Shore'?
Yes, of any of Mark Burnett's shows, of course! Which is pretty much all of them on TV right now. As for 'Jersey Shore', I don’t know too much about it. Been touring and working so hard, I don’t have much time to just sit back and relax.


The True Colors Tour's Red Rocks shows were some of the best I've ever been to. Can we expect another True Colors Tour in 2011?
Of course we will do True Colors in 2011! This year I wanted to focus on 'Memphis Blues' and bring it on the road. That's the main reason for not having a True Colors Tour this year. The other reason is that the economy is still pretty bad and a lot of folks just don't have the money for those big ticket festival shows. The more acts on the bill, the more the ticket has to cost. But we do want to do it in 2011. We are going to do a three-day festival in NYC and take it out on the road as well. Stay tuned!

Pride Journey: Coastal Mississippi

By Joey Amato

Every now and then I visit a destination I know absolutely nothing about. That happened a few years ago when I visited Oklahoma City and I fell in love with OKC. This time around, that destination was Coastal Mississippi, more specifically Biloxi, Gulfport, and Ocean Springs. In fact, the only thing I knew about the Biloxi was the hotel I stayed at, Beau Rivage. I knew it was owned by MGM Resorts, but that was about it. The rest of the trip was going to be a surprise.

For this particular trip, I wanted to focus on health and wellness and luckily, Beau Rivage’s most recent renovation included two floors full of Stay Well rooms as well as an updated spa. My gulf view room came complete with an aromatherapy machine, ultra high-end linens, a memory foam mattress, and pillows as well as a vitamin C dispenser hooked up to my shower. I had never seen one of those before, so I had to ask what it was.

After an early check in, I departed for Ocean Springs, a quaint town just east of Beau Rivage. My first stop was a place called Shearwater Pottery. Apparently, it is very well known to everyone but me. After posting pictures on social media, I received numerous comments from friends wanting to visit. Shearwater Pottery was founded in 1928 by Peter Anderson and from the 1920s through the present day, Shearwater Pottery has produced art pottery, utilitarian ware, figurines, decorative tiles, and other pottery pieces.

I had the opportunity to meet with Margie Ashley, the daughter of Peter Anderson who told me about her family’s legacy in Ocean Springs. At that time, Coastal Mississippi was known for fishing and not so much for the arts, so her family was viewed as outcasts but the community. Margie told me people used to called them the “crazy Andersons.” But they eventually had the last laugh as the family name has become as much of Coastal Mississippi culture as seafood gumbo.

A few minutes up the road from Shearwater Pottery is the Walter Anderson Museum of Art. Walter was the brother of Peter Anderson and equally as talented, creating thousands of works throughout his lifetime. Many of Walter Anderson’s paintings, drawings, murals, block prints, sculpture, carvings, and writings are on display at the museum.

The pièce de résistance is the Community Center, which is the site of Walter Anderson’s monumental 3,000 square foot mural, which depicts the historic discovery of the Mississippi Coast and its diverse climates. The city commissioned Walter Anderson in 1950 for a fee of $1.00 and the project took 16 months to complete.

For dinner, head to Vestige, a farm-to-table restaurant in Ocean Springs helmed by head chefs Alex Perry and his wife, Kumi Omori who were recently nominated for a James Beard Award. Vestige offers a pre-fixed menu which changes on a regular basis and contains only the freshest local ingredients. And if it’s not local, they fly it in from its land of origin to insure its freshness. We began our meal with sashimi of Hamachi complete with a foie gras emulsion, rose, purple sweet potato and magnolia flower kombucha veil. Yes, that was one dish and just an appetizer, but probably my favorite item on the menu.

After 3 more courses which consisted of a piece of perfectly cooked fish to charcoal grilled wagyu beef, the meal comes to an end with a delectable strawberry Bavarian, with cacao mint genoise, whipped match, grapefruit lemon curd and pecan ginger shortbread. This wasn’t just a meal; it was an experience worthy of a James Beard nomination and definitely the award for Best Chef: South.

You’ll need the rest of the night to recover from a food coma, so head back to Beau Rivage for some much-needed rest or hit the casino if your heart desires.

Head out the next morning to the recently opened Mississippi Aquarium in Gulfport, about 15 minutes west of Biloxi. The state-of-the-art facility is home to a variety of sea life and is one of the crown jewels of the area.

I can never see enough animals, so next on the agenda was the Institute of Marine Mammal Studies located at Ocean Adventures Marine Park. Guests can come up close and personal with stingrays, sea lions and dolphins. I had the opportunity to interact with a beautiful male dolphin, getting to rub his belly, give him commands and feed him some delicious fish. For my, I mean his hard work, I got a kiss from one of my favorite animals.

On the way back to your hotel, stop by Coastal Roast Coffee for an afternoon pick me up before dinner. I wasn’t sure what to expect at White Pillars. The bar was set really high at Vestige the night before, but I was in for another treat. We began our meal with a bowl of Oyster & Artichoke soup. I was a bit hesitant to order this at first as I didn’t want to begin my meal with something heavy, but when it arrived, it turned out to be one of the best soups I’ve had in a long time. It was light and fragrant, consisting of Gulf oysters, fennel, and oyster mushrooms in a coconut milk broth. When dining near the coast, why not try the Gulf Seafood Tower, two tiers of fresh oysters, mahi crudo, smoked fish dip and amberjack ceviche.

And those were just the starters. For my main course, I ordered the Duck Ramen prepared with a confit duck leg, collards, togarashi, duck cracklins, and the traditional soft-boiled egg. In fact, the egg was the only thing traditional about the dish, which was rich and delicious. The duck was cooked to perfection and the broth was fantastic.

The area is home to two LGBTQ bars, Sipp’s in Gulfport, and Just Us Lounge, located within walking distance of Beau Rivage. The crowd at Just Us was a melting pot of the area’s LGBTQ community, extremely diverse and welcoming. One thing to note is that smoking is still legal inside bars, so if that bothers you, there is a large outdoor space available.

I know I said I wanted to focus on health and wellness during this trip, but I seemed to have detoured from my mission somewhere in Ocean Springs. One can’t resist the food in Coastal Mississippi, so screw the diet for one more day and head to The Roasted Bean located in the lobby of Beau Rivage and ask for an order of beignets. These are not listed anywhere in plain site and are the best kept secret of the hotel. I received a tip from the captain of the Biloxi Shrimping Trip, which I went on the morning prior. The powdered sugar pastries where the best I’ve ever had. Light, airy, and simply delicious. They couldn’t have been that many calories, right?

End your stay in Coastal Mississippi with a relaxing CBD massage at the The Spa at Beau Rivage. The 80-minute massage uses CBD body oils as well as a Moor Mud treatment to soothe tired muscles and back pain. Playing with dolphins, eating oysters, and savoring beignets all weekend was quite stressful.
 
If you are looking for a relaxed seaside vacation, put Coastal Mississippi on your radar. There are many unique experiences that will make your stay truly memorable.
 
Visit coastalmississippi.com for more information about the destination.

L.A. Foster Family and Adoption Agency Recognized for Work With LGBT Families

The Human Rights Campaign Foundation, the educational arm of the nation’s largest lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender civil rights organization, announced today that the Village Family Services earned the All Children—All Families seal of recognition.   The Los Angeles family wellness  agency earned the honor by meeting the required criteria for fully inclusive policies and practices in working with the LGBT community.  The Human Rights Campaign’s All Children—All Families initiative provides a comprehensive framework for agencies to establish policies and practices that welcome, support and affirm LGBT foster and adoptive parents.

“We’re honored to be recognized as a leader serving LGBTQ youth and families,” stated Hugo Villa, CEO of The Village Family Services.  “From the start, we’ve envisioned a different kind of agency – one that unites expertise with compassion and cultural competence to focus on the unique needs of children, youth and families whom we feel are being inadequately served. LGBTQ youth need affirming and supportive services and they can count on The Village Family Services to be there for them.”

“We are thrilled to welcome the Village Family Services into the community of child welfare organizations that are truly committed to creating more loving families by removing barriers to qualified LGBT adoptive parents.  The child welfare professionals at the Village have shown us shining examples of putting the best interests of the children first in the adoption and foster care process,” added Ellen Kahn, HRC’s Family Project Director.

The seal of recognition will be presented at the Skirball Cultural Center during the Village Family Services Cultural Competency Series workshop Working With LGBTQ Youth: What You Really Need to Know. All Children—All Families certified trainer Toni Cooke will present the seal to Village Family Services Founders Hugo Villa, CEO, and Irma Seilicovich, COO.  More information on the Village Family Services and the Working With LGBTQ Youth workshop, can be found at www.thevillagefs.org.

The “All Children – All Families” initiative, launched in 2007, promotes policies and practices that welcome LGBT foster and adoptive parents.  The program seeks to enhance LGBT cultural competence among child welfare professionals and educate LGBT people about opportunities to become foster or adoptive parents to waiting children.  To date, ACAF has over 50 participating agencies across the country, and has awarded 18 seals of recognition. Last year HRC launched a “50 state strategy,” with the goal of securing at least one ACAF-recognized adoption agency dedicated to working with LGBT families in every state.   More information about the initiative can be found at www.hrc.org/acaf.

The Center issues statement on the resignation of Dobson from Focus on the Family

The Center has issued the following statement on the surprise resignation of Focus on the Family's founder James Dobson from the organization:

“I hope that the new leadership at Focus on the Family is sensitive to the gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender community and receptive to opening the channels of communication to create a better Colorado for all.” - Carlos Martinez, Executive Director of The Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender Community Center of Colorado.

GLAAD responds to Focus on the Family's James Dobson being named to the Radio Hall of Fame

The Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD) recently responded to the announcement that the anti-gay Focus on the Family ministry, headed by James Dobson, has been voted into the Radio Hall of Fame.

The National Radio Hall of Fame (RHOF) and Museum is part of the Museum of Broadcast Communications in Chicago, Ill. Inductees to the museum are nominated by the National Radio Hall of Fame & Museum Steering Committee (RHOFSC), which includes radio executives, academicians, trade journalists and others interested in radio's history. James Dobson and Focus on the Family ministry won in the category of "a broadcaster who has made at least a 20-year contribution to the radio industry and has distinguished him/herself at the local and/or regional level."

"For 20 years James Dobson has used his expansive, well funded media platform to perpetuate false and misleading information which contribute to putting gay and lesbian families in harms way," said GLAAD President Neil G. Giuliano. "GLAAD urges the media to scrutinize and shed light on Dobson's record of inaccurate claims about lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people and include an in-depth analysis of his distorted and defamatory statements."

The Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD) is dedicated to promoting and ensuring fair, accurate and inclusive representation of people and events in the media as a means of eliminating homophobia and discrimination based on gender identity and sexual orientation. For more information, please visit www.glaad.org.

The War on Gay People, Part 1: Won't somebody please think of the children?

Strange little newspaper The Denver Daily News (read more about them at Colorado Media Matters ) today made headlines of a new study that says that children raised by same-sex parents are more likely to grow up to be gay. According to staff-writer Peter Marcus, after a review of the current research, Dr. Tracye L. Hansen concludes that children raised by same-sex parents are between four and 10 times more likely to be gay than those raised by opposite-sex couples. Focus on the Family was quick to chime in with their opinions while local GLBT groups have had no comment at this point.

Here's MileHighGayGuy's official comment:

So what? It's too bad these kinds of non-issues are so appealing to the media and organizations like Focus on the Family. Here's a better one; my parents are currently caring for five foster kids who were removed from horribly abusive situations and all of their parents are straight. Every single one of these abused children is the product of a heterosexual union. I'd like to know what Focus on the Family thinks of that, and more importantly, what they're doing, with all of their resources, to help. Unfortunately, there's not as much money to be made or publicity to be had dealing with real, important social issues as there is in the ridiculous and ongoing war against gay people.

Read the entire article here.

And enjoy this little flashback to presidential hopeful John McCain who recently said he would rather see children rot in orphanages than be adopted by loving, qualified gay parents. God bless you, John McCain, on behalf of all the children you would protect from having a family.

And isn't it funny how these self-appointed Guardians of America's Morals always have a little skeleton (or two) in their own closets?

Scandal number one: Is John McCain a crook?
Scandal number two: Is John McCain an adulterer?
Scandals number three through nine: What else has that John McGain been getting up to that we don't know about?

Stonewall Dems respond to Palin's sexual orientation statements

Yesterday, the National Stonewall Democrats issued the following statement in response to statements from Governor Sarah Palin that sexual orientation is a choice:

"John McCain chose a poor running mate, but he did not choose his sexual orientation. This is another example of why we need a pro-equality President like Barack Obama in the White House. For Governor Palin to suggest that individuals randomly choose their sexual orientation based on nothing but a whim is wrong and it repeats the talking points of the anti-gay special interests which continue to control the McCain/Palin campaign and the Republican Party. "
- Jon Hoadley, Executive Director

Governor Palin asserted that sexual orientation is a choice - a fact disputed by the majority of the scientific community - in a response to a question posed by Katie Couric of CBS News. Couric asked Palin to comment on her views regarding sexual orientation in light of revelations that Governor Palin's church continues to promote harmful "converstion therapy" for gay Americans.

Palin responsed: "But what you’re talking about, I think, value here, what my position is on homosexuality and you can pray it away, because I think that was the title that was listed on that bulletin. And you know, I don’t know what prayers are worthy of being prayed. I don’t know what prayers are going to be asked and answered. But as for homosexuality, I am not going to judge Americans and the decisions that they make in their adult personal relationships. I have one of my absolute best friends for the last 30 years happens to be gay, and I love her dearly. And she is not my "gay friend," she is one of my best friends, who happens to have made a choice that isn’t a choice I would have made. But I am not going to judge people."
CBS News released the interview portion quoted above late Tuesday evening.

A PATTERN OF DISCRIMINATION

- As Governor, Palin currently supports the efforts of radical activists to strip Alaska residents - specifically state workers - of the most basic domestic partner benefits.

- It was only when the Alaska Attorney General warned Palin that the Republican position of stripping domestic partnership benefits was unconstitutional (in light of a recent Alaska Supreme Court ruling) that Palin reluctantly vetoed legislation that would have defied the court ruling. Palin quickly moved on to support an alternate strategy to strip domestic partner benefits by placing an anti-equality amendment onto the state ballot.

- When Alaska had the opportunity to extend the freedom to marry to all Alaskan couples, Palin joined with radical efforts to scapegoat same-sex couples in order to scare voters on this issue. In 1998, Palin championed a constitutional amendment that deeply discriminated against same-sex couples in the Alaska constitution. The passage of this amendment, with the full support of Palin, kicked-off a wave of discrimination by encouraging Republicans and radical activists in other states to place similar measures on state ballots for the next decade to come.

An Anti-Equality Advocate from Day One
- The FIRST piece of legislation signed by Governor Palin was done at the request of radical, anti-LGBT groups.

- Palin squandered over $1.2 million of taxpayer money to place an anti-LGBT "vanity" vote before voters at the request of radical anti-LGBT activists - including Focus on the Family, the Concerned Women of America and the Family Research Council. The ballot language asked voters if they supported Republican efforts to strip existing benefits for LGBT state employees. As a non-biding initiative, the measure had no influence on Alaska law. As the only question on the ballot, Palin willingly wasted over $1.2 million in state money to promote the talking points of anti-LGBT activists.

MCCAIN/PALIN: A TICKET SQUARELY AGAINST EQUALITY

- The McCain/Palin ticket SUPPORTS anti-marriage amendments pending before voters in Arizona, California and Florida. In fact, when asked by the Family Research Council to star in an anti-LGBT ad in 2006, Senator McCain said yes. When Arizona voters rejected his pleas by defeating the initiative, Senator McCain again offered his name to efforts to once again place an initiative on the Arizona ballot in 2008.

- The McCain/Palin ticket OPPOSES the Employment Non-Discrimination Act.

- The McCain/Palin ticket OPPOSES federal hate crimes legislation.

- The McCain/Palin ticket OPPOSES the Uniting American Families Act, which would unite families headed by same-sex couples where one spouse is an American citizen.

- The McCain/Palin ticket OPPOSES the repeal of the failed "Don't Ask, Don't Tell, Don't Pursue" policy which has dismissed over 12,500 servicemembers. At a time when our military asks Americans for their service, the McCain/Palin ticket believes that millions of Americans should be barred from offering their patriotism simply because of who they are.

National Stonewall Democrats is the national voice of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and allied Democrats, with more than 90 local chapters across the nation. Stonewall Democrats works to elect more pro-equality Democrats regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity - and to improve the Democratic Party on issues important to LGBT Democrats.

Take A Summer Vacation to Remember in Colorado With New Adventures, Cultural Experiences, Hip Lodging and Memorable Meals

Spring is in the air, and now is the time to ensure summer “Shines a Little Brighter” by planning an unforgettable vacation to Colorado. Visitors to Colorado can expect to be wowed with exciting new travel experiences. Outdoor adventures await with new bicycle, hot springs, stargazing, rodeo and rail offerings. Arts and culture are calling from Banksy to Bayer. New and hip boutique lodging includes an A-Frame Lodging Club in Winter Park, a river camp in Grand Junction, lodging at a historic drive-in movie theater in the San Luis Valley, one of Denver’s most iconic historic school buildings turned hotel and more. And to fuel for and celebrate Colorado adventures, exciting new restaurant and craft beverage concepts are springing up across the state.

As visitors explore Colorado, they are encouraged to “Do Colorado Right” and embrace the state’s interpretation of responsible tourism — showing care not only for destinations but for visitors and the people who call Colorado home. Following is a sampling of what’s new in Colorado for the year ahead. For more information and travel ideas, visit www.COLORADO.com.

Exciting New Outdoor Pursuits and Adventure-Inspired Events:

• Bicycle Colorado Launches Regional Planning Site: Bicycle Colorado is launching a bicycle tourism planning microsite for the Mountains & Mesas travel region. The microsite will feature rides for all skill levels and types of cyclists.
• ​​Colorado Historic Hot Springs Loop Expands in 2022: For the past six years the Colorado Historic Hot Springs Loop (CHHSL) has showcased the state’s premier hot springs destinations via self-guided itineraries that share the state’s geothermal resources. In 2022, the CHHSL is adding three more destination partners: Durango, Carbondale and Saguache County.
• Colorado Mountain School Builds a New Backcountry Yurt on Cameron Pass: Colorado Mountain School built a large yurt at the Seven Utes Mountain pull off on Cameron Pass. Lodging is available for guests booking private backcountry experiences and/or participating in scheduled courses and adventures.
• Colorado Stargazing: Experience the Night Offers 3 New Locations: Colorado’s self-guided stargazing tour added three new locations to its roster in preparation for the 2022 summer travel season. In addition to the original seven locations, Colorado Stargazing now includes Gunnison, Ridgway and Nucla, Naturita and Norwood. All of these locations are home to an International Dark-Sky Designated Place or are designated themself.
• Grand Valley Grapes and Grains Adventures Offers New Winery Tours, Palisade: Grand Valley Grapes and Grains Adventures is offering three new winery tours starting this spring. The Standard Winery Tour includes reserved wine tastings at three Palisade-area wineries, an education about the grapes of the region and more. Additionally, the new Magnum Winery Tour includes a behind-the-scenes tour of a working winery and the Imperial Winery Tour includes a made-to-order gourmet lunch served at a winery.
• First Official Gravel Triathlon Series in U.S. Stops in Steamboat Springs (July 31): Gravel is growing and its popularity has reached beyond just biking. The new USA Triathlon Gravel Series is planning an eight-stop tour this year, including the Stagecoach Gravel Triathlon in Steamboat Springs. The new gravel triathlon races will utilize mostly non-technical dirt roads and singletrack.
• Junk Yard Bike Park Opens in Buena Vista: This summer, Buena Vista-based RMOC will open its brand new, professionally built bike park, The Junk Yard, on its Arkansas Riverfront property. Along with RMOC’s on-site nano-brewery and food truck and its slew of outdoor adventure offerings, guests can now hone their biking skills on this stellar bike loop and 4 trails.
• Pikes Peak or Bust Rodeo Hosts the 2022 NFR Open (July 13-16): The 81^st Cinch Pikes Peak or Bust Rodeo welcomes the 2022 NFR Open at the Norris Penrose Event Center. The inaugural NFR Open powered by RAM will be one of the biggest rodeos of the 2022 PRORODEO season with $1 million in payouts.
• Railbiking Comes to South Fork: Railbiking with Revolution Rail is a fun excursion activity for all ages and ability levels that allows riders to ride railroad tracks under their own power and explore the outside in a brand new way.  Revolution Rail is taking reservations now for the full 2022 season for 2-seat and 4-seat railbikes.
• Rocky Mountaineer Launches First Full Season for Rockies to the Red Rocks Route (April – October 2022): Rocky Mountaineer, the luxury train operator, will run its first full season in the Southwest United States in 2022. The Rockies to the Red Rocks route is a two-day rail journey between Denver and Moab with an overnight stay in Glenwood Springs.
• Stargazing and Solar Observing Events at Smokey Jack Observatory, Westcliffe: Dark Skies is proud and excited to offer new public celestial viewing events for its community and guests. These events include Visual Public Star Parties, Electronic Assisted Astronomy Public Parties, Open Public Observing Night and Public Solar Observing Day Sessions.
• New Summit Nature Guides Offers Guided Nature Hikes, Breckenridge: Summit Nature Guides is a new non-profit service that navigates small groups on planned nature hikes, led by an interpretive nature guide.
• YMCA of the Rockies Offers New Master Naturalist Workshops, Estes Park: YMCA of the Rockies is offering brand new Master Naturalist Workshops, through which participants can take their passion to the next level and become certified Master Naturalists via multi-day programs. Starting in May, each program will include hands-on, “in the field” classes in fire ecology and the effects of climate change, aquatic ecology, montane forest ecology and glaciology, coupled with special seasonal classes on wildflowers, wildlife and more.

Enticing New Arts and Cultural Events and Attractions:

• The Art of Banksy Exhibition Comes to Denver (April 14 - June 12): The Art of Banksy, the largest touring exhibition of authentic Banksy artwork in the world, will make its Denver debut on April 14. The Art of Banksy will feature over 100 original works from private collectors across the globe, offering a rare opportunity to view authenticated and certified Banksy artworks rarely seen by the general public. Banksy, whose identity is the art world’s most closely guarded secret, is an enigmatic artist and world-recognized political activist.
• Carla Fernandez Exhibition Comes to the Denver Art Museum (May 1 - September 5): The Denver Art Museum (DAM) presents the first exhibition to fully explore the career of Mexican artist and fashion designer Carla Fernández, founder of the eponymous fashion brand. The acclaimed Mexico City-based fashion brand, Carla Fernández, established in 2000, is a couture house that aims to bring new meaning to the luxury world as an agent of social and ethical change and innovation.
• New CSU Spur Offers Hands-On Learning in Denver: Colorado State University (CSU) Spur in Denver is a new and first-of-its-kind public learning destination for K-12 student field trips, families and visitors. Inside the Vida building, visitors can watch horses working with humans and veterinarians performing live surgeries on dogs and cats. A mock exam clinic is available for kids to try their hand at being a veterinarian and exhibits throughout the building and virtual reality supplement the real-world experiences.
• The Culture Museum Opens in Denver: The Culture Museum is a new immersive, multi-room art installation dedicated to celebrating iconic moments in Black pop culture. The museum, which recently opened in the RiNo Art District in Five Points, explores an array of Black culture expressions with themed rooms ranging from ‘90s sitcoms and iconic films, to hip hop music, to the barbershop and family reunions.
• Fort Collins Museum of Discovery Presents Upcoming New Exhibit (June 18 – Sept. 4): Food for Thought Micro Views of Sustenance: Threats & Prospects is a traveling photography exhibit using photomontage to inspire conversation about how food is connected to climate change. The goal of the exhibition is to use dramatic art to engage visitors in complex issues and possibilities surrounding the state of food on our dinner plates and planet.
• Herbert Bayer Center Opens in Aspen: With a soft opening in December 2021 and grand opening in June 2022, the new Resnick Center for Herbert Bayer Studies will focus on preserving and honoring the art of Bayer, who designed the Institute’s historic campus, influenced the foundations of modern Aspen, and whose work is an iconic expression of the Bauhaus movement in America.
• The Historic Opera Houses Circuit Debuts: The first-ever Colorado Historic Opera Houses Circuit is a joint promotion of five historic Colorado mountain opera houses. The project will share the performances, programs, history and stories of these opera houses, which were built between 1878 and 1913 and retain their original character. The Circuit will feature a map, website and other promotions to attract visitors interested in history, arts and culture.
• Immersive Frida Kahlo Exhibition Comes to Denver (runs through May 30): On the heels of the critically acclaimed blockbuster Immersive Van Gogh, Lighthouse Immersive and Maestro Immersive Art have set their sights on the art and life of Frida Kahlo (1907-1954). The exhibition features some of the artist’s best-known works “brought to life” by the world-renowned master of digital art, Italy’s Massimiliano Siccardi, accompanied by composer Luca Longobardi’s resonant score, and art direction by Vittorio Guidotti.
• Kirkland Museum Welcomes Frank Lloyd Wright Inside the Walls, Denver (June 17, 2022-January 8, 2023): This exhibition will explore the relationship between Frank Lloyd Wright’s architecture and decorative art, through Kirkland Museum’s permanent collection. Decorative art objects from around a dozen of Wright’s building projects are part of the permanent collection of Kirkland Museum.
• Planet Walk Debuts in Westcliffe: Fully complete by summer 2022, Planet Walk is an interpretive, self-guided walking adventure of a four billion-to-one scale model of the entire Solar System and other wonders on Main Street in Westcliffe. The colorful interpretive signs along the way are designed to give a conceptual understanding of the nature of the objects and other aspects across the Solar System and beyond.
• Ridgway Space to Create to Boost Creative Culture of Ridgway: Located in Southwest Colorado near the San Juan Mountains, the Ridgway Space to Create project will create workforce housing as well as 2,000 square feet of creative community space in the Town of Ridgway's downtown core and certified Creative District. Construction is underway and expected to be complete in late summer 2022.
• New Spanish Peaks Country Fest, La Veta (June 17&18): Spanish Peaks Country Fest is a new country music festival coming to southern Colorado. The event welcomes guests to experience the biggest artists playing at the foot of the beautiful Spanish Peaks. Koe Wetzel and Tracy Byrd are headlining the festival.

New Lodging Properties, Offerings and Renovations:

• A-Frame Club Opens in Winter Park: Slated to open in early summer 2022, A-Frame Club is a lifestyle hotel consisting of 31 newly-constructed A-Frame cabins integrated into Winter Park's natural environment. Both modern and nostalgic, the design takes cues from 1970s American ski culture and the iconic A-frame cabins of that era. Cabins come equipped with a main floor living room, bathroom, kitchenette, lofted bedroom with an Onsen-style soaking tub, Malm fireplace, exterior deck and vintage furnishings. The location includes a bar and restaurant in a historic saloon building.
• Camp V Adds Singletrack to Property, Naturita: Camp V and The West End Trail Alliance (WETA) are excited to announce the construction of a 2 mile single track system on the Camp V property. Guests and the public will get a taste of the much bigger trail system that is currently in the planning process for 54 miles of multi use trails. The CampV connector trail will be completed in early spring for hikers, bikers and trail seekers looking for the next hidden spot. Camp V is a boutique camp that combines art, history, architecture, design, outdoor recreation and unique spaces.
• Dunes Experiences Launches Near Alamosa: Founded by a group of explorers, Dunes Experiences will launch this year at their 320-acre private ranch property near the Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve near Alamosa. The stylish and modern clubhouse is set up to host events and retreats for private groups of any size starting this summer, and they can curate all activities and visitor experiences in the area. This full service eco-property will scale up their accommodations in 2023 with the "Desert House," a sustainably built and architecturally designed abode specifically for private groups.
• El Jet’s Cantina + Sky Outpost Opens in Grand Junction: El Jet’s Cantina® + Sky Outpost® "Born in Baja", will be a multi-acre indoor/outdoor cantina and lodging development that will also offer camping in tiny homes, Airstreams and campsites. The facility will be located right on the Colorado River in close proximity to downtown Grand Junction expected to open in late 2022.
• Historic Frontier Drive-In Reimagined as Outdoor Hospitality Destination, Center: Opening this summer, the Frontier Drive-In is a 1940s-era drive-in movie theater offering sweeping views of both the San Juan and Sangre de Cristo mountain ranges with nightly film screenings on a fully restored movie screen. Accommodations include steelmaster sheds converted to luxury hotel suites as well as glamping yurts. Starting mid-summer 2022, guests can also experience the Frontier's one-of-a-kind spas located inside signature 3D-printed adobe structures open to the sky.
• Historic Hotel Colorado Renovates Guest Rooms: Hotel Colorado’s multi-year, multi-million-dollar restoration has resumed. All guest rooms, along with corridors and the main stairway, are receiving comprehensive floor-to-ceiling makeovers. All furniture has been custom-made to match the period and respect the heritage of the hotel’s original Italian villa design. This phase of the room renovations is anticipated to be completed this summer.
• The Lodges at Knapp Ranch Offers Cabins in the Vail Valley: For the summer and fall of 2022, Knapp Ranch, a new retreat nestled in the Rocky Mountains, has four cabins offering day events only until 2023. Considering the property covers more than 300 acres, guests will have plenty of room to hike, bike, fish, learn all about the Knapp Ranch bees and go forest bathing.
• The Max, a Renovated and Reimagined Hotel Opens in Lamar: Discover the beauty and serenity of Colorado’s prairie while staying at The Max, a renovated and reimagined upscale hotel that recently opened with hints of its Art Deco roots. In 1938, The Maxwell Hotel, a southeastern Colorado Art Deco gem, promoted itself as being as modern as tomorrow. 83 years later, its new owners are making that a reality. The Max boasts custom, artful finishes and a lounge featuring house-crafted cocktails and dining options.
• Monarch Casino Resort Spa Celebrates its Grand Opening: The $400 million luxury expansion debuted this spring. Guests can play on a 60,000-square-foot gaming floor. There is also the brand new BetMonarch Sportsbook & Lounge. Foodies will delight in award-winning offerings like the white tablecloth Monarch Chophouse and Monarch’s newest upscale offering, Bistro Mariposa. Monarch offers 516 mountain modern luxury hotel rooms, a luxurious spa experience and more.
• The Pad Hotel/Hostel Opens in Silverthorne: The Pad is a brand new boutique hotel/hostel in Silverthorne. Located along the Blue River, The Pad was sustainably constructed with 18 shipping containers and is on track to become the first Certified B Corporation for a Colorado-based lodging company. Featuring 36 rooms ranging from private higher-end suites to dorm-style bunks, The Pad offers affordable rates with high-end amenities, such as an on-site restaurant (Graze and Torreys), a rooftop bar and event space, a coworking space, riverside patios and more.
• The Slate Hotel Opens in Denver: Located at the site of the historic original Emily Griffith Opportunity School, The Slate Hotel will begin welcoming guests this spring. Paying tribute to the campus’ legacy within Denver, the redevelopment of the 2.4-acre landmark preserved the historic buildings and will pay homage to the former school with thoughtful design touches and experiences. The 4-story, 135,000-square-foot property will add 251 guest rooms to downtown Denver.
• Thompson Denver Opens: Thompson Denver adds to Hyatt’s growing Thompson Hotels brand portfolio and is the brand’s first hotel in Colorado. The casual sophistication of the west comes alive in refreshingly modern style at Thompson Denver’s 216 room luxury boutique hotel. With interiors by the internationally acclaimed, award-winning design firm Parts + Labor, the natural palette and textures of the guest rooms and suites infuse impeccable details and finish with warmth and wellbeing.
• Zapata Ranch Launches New Travel Workshops, San Luis Valley: With an emphasis on learning and immersion in the striking landscape, Ranchlands’ trips to The Nature Conservancy’s Zapata Ranch have something for everyone. New travel workshops include the art of botanical dyes and foraging with designer and textile artist Edie Ure; discover nature with Ted Floyd spending time observing the Nature Conservancy’s herd of bison alongside local wildlife; join best-selling memoirist Molly Wizenberg in a generative writing workshop to explore how the sensory details of food can help unlock fertile memories; learn to move with ease at Power of Pilates; learn more about a variety of wines and spirits from New Mexico and Colorado led by Head of Beverage at Los Poblanos, Dylan Storment.

Delicious New Food and Beverage Concepts:

• The Annex at WeldWerks Eatery Opens at WeldWerks' Greeley Taproom: Similar to WeldWerks’ constantly rotating tap list, menu items at The Annex will be ever-changing, evolving and expertly paired with the current beer menu. Guests can enjoy intentionally-crafted cuisine from all corners of the world, including items like Spanish Calamari with Romesco sauce, Pork Belly Steamed Buns and a crave-satisfying Double Cheeseburger.
• James Beard Award Nominated Manny Barella Opens Second Bellota Location in Boulder: 2022 James Beard Award “Emerging Chef” semifinalist Manny Barella will bring his authentic approach to Mexican cuisine to Boulder when Bellota opens its second location this spring. Bellota opened at The Source in Denver in 2020 and quickly became a neighborhood favorite due in large part to Barella’s passion for the cuisine of his Mexican heritage - evident in every dish on the menu.
• Benzina Brings Pizza to Former Muffler Shop in Denver: Housed in a former muffler shop, Benzina features Neapolitan-style pizza and high-style, retro-cool aesthetics. Helmed by Brian Lockwood, a Boulder native with a resumé that includes the French Laundry and Eleven Madison Park, Benzina has quickly become a neighborhood favorite.
• Birch Road Neighborhood Clubhouse Opens in Denver: Opening in spring 2022, Birch Road is an independent, women-owned BYOB neighborhood clubhouse – with a membership model much like a gym or co-working space, but centered around members’ social lives. Monthly membership includes fingerprint access to the clubhouse, a personal locker in a temperature-controlled bottle storage cellar (for their favorite wine, beer or spirits), access to private event spaces for larger gatherings or to the member lounge and tasting room for more casual nights with friends.
• Bluebird Market Opens in Silverthorne: Bluebird Market is located at the hub of Fourth Street Crossing, a 3.8-acre district in the new heart of downtown Silverthorne. Tenants of the nearly 30,000-square-foot market include a dozen chef-driven culinary concepts along with three local retail entrepreneurs and a flexible co-working space.
• Aspen Welcomes Catch Steak: Steps from the Aspen gondola, Catch Steak Aspen sprawls along 10,000 square feet of rooftop terrace and indoor dining space, complete with a gorgeous bar and a tasteful private cellar. Iconic meals unfold over the world’s best steak cuts.
• Chez Maggy Opens in the New Thompson Hotel, Denver: Michelin starred chef Ludo Lefebvre brings his culinary magic to Chez Maggy - where French brasserie meets Mile High style. An homage to his Denver family, chef Lefebvre leans into his roots and heritage to create a unique approach to classic French cuisine using elements and ingredients native to Colorado.
• Cruise Control Kitchen & Cellar Opens as Colorado's First Fast Casual Winery Concept in Grand Junction: Opening in summer 2022, Cruise Control will focus on gourmet foods designed to pair with craft beer, spirits and wine. The new restaurant will feature Sauvage Spectrum wines served on tap, along with bottles, growlers and cans. Guest wines with an extremely heavy focus on Colorado producers will also round out the menu. Greeting guests upon entry will be a micro-market displaying locally produced Colorado Proud provisions.
• The Easy Vegan Opens in Denver: The Easy Vegan is a pandemic start-up serving vegetable-forward vegan food that is not centered around health or diet culture. Owners Alexi Mandolini and Taylor Herbert believe vegan eating is not a limitation but an opportunity to reimagine vegetables, their endless abilities in the kitchen and their worthiness on a plate.
• Five Nines Cocktail Lounge Opens in Cherry Creek’s Clayton Members Club & Hotel: Five Nines is an immersive craft cocktail bar serving a selection of drinks curated to be as elaborate as they are elegant, alongside a concise menu of shareable bar bites and playful pops of promiscuity in the form of multiple nightly movement-based performances. 
• Fuel & Iron Opens Pueblo-Inspired Bar in Denver and Food Hall in Pueblo: The bar precludes a sister Fuel & Iron Food Hall, coming to downtown Pueblo in fall 2022. Visitors can taste their way through a mini tour of Pueblo food and drink at Fuel & Iron Bar. The kitchen will serve Pueblo classics, including green chile made with Milberger Farms Pueblo chiles, and a smaller slider take on the famous Green Chile Slopper. Guests can also expect to see products from Pueblo-area artisans and farmers. When it opens in fall 2022, Fuel & Iron Food Hall seeks to forge a bridge between Pueblo’s industrial past and a future which honors the city’s diverse population and bountiful agriculture by creating a platform for restaurant incubation.
• Fidel’s Cocina and Bar Opens in Palisade: Fidel's Cocina is a lively and vibrant taqueria serving Latin-inspired dishes and thoughtful craft cocktails. Everything at Fidel's is made from scratch with clean ingredients. Handcrafted plates mingle heritage ingredients with bright, lively flavors for an unabashed culinary experience.
• La Française Bistrot Opens in Breckenridge: The cozy ambiance and authentic menu at La Française Bistrot, a new family-owned restaurant in downtown Breckenridge, transports guests from the mountains of Colorado to Southern France. Enjoy classic French dishes like coq a vin and bone marrow and escargots, along with fresh baked bread made at their family’s bakery next door, La Française Bakery.
• Mythmaker Brewing Opens in Fort Collins: Mythmaker Brewing will open this spring seeking to create its own mythical journey, pulling from the traditions of the past as well as the experimentation of the present to represent craft beer as it evolves into the future. Along with a few year-round offerings, the brewery will provide an ever-evolving tap list of well-balanced beers from their 7-barrel brewhouse.
• Denver’s Ruby’s Market Supports Immigrant and Refugee Communities: Located in Denver’s Platte Park Neighborhood, Ruby’s Market is a multicultural artisan and food destination, incubating refugee, immigrant  and indigenous entrepreneurs and supporting local businesses. The Market showcases nearly 200 snacks, spices, cooking supplies, textiles, jewelry, plants and other products made by local and global artisans, the majority of whom identify as women or members of immigrant, refugee or Indigenous communities.  
• Stanley Marketplace Celebrates Five Years with New Offerings in Aurora: Stanley Marketplace, a former aviation factory turned small business collective is celebrating its fifth birthday this year and welcomes Churreria de Madrid, an authentic Spanish churrería or “churro bar,” Sky Bar at Stanley will be a mod cocktail bar featuring a 1950’s Pan-Am themed experience and Colorado’s iconic Tattered Cover Book Store recently opened their first-ever children’s-focused concept, Tattered Cover Kids. 
• Storm Peak Brewing Opens Tasting Room at Steamboat Base Area: Steamboat’s Storm Peak Brewing Co. recently opened a second location in town, the Bus Stop tasting room at the ski area base. The new location currently features 30 of the local brewery’s hand-crafted beers on-tap, plus one of the largest bars in Steamboat Springs. The name – Bus Stop – is a nod to the tasting room’s location between two stops, and a reminder to use public transit.
• Suga Moon’s BBQ & Cocktails Comes to Frisco: Husband-wife team Teryn Guadagnoli and Chris Warren are bringing smoked Kansas City–style barbecue to Summit County, working with local ranchers and farmers to source high-quality brisket, ribs and pulled pork. The laid-back lodge is named after Prohibition-era Colorado sugar beet moonshine.
• Trinidad Tea Company to Be First Tenant to Open in the Renovated Fox West Theatre: The vision for the rehabilitation of the once magnificent Fox Theatre is to provide an unparalleled performance venue and event destination for the community and the southern Colorado region. Phase 1 of the Fox West Theatre rehabilitation project is underway, including exterior repairs, environmental remediation and activation of the commercial storefront spaces. The eastern storefront of the Theatre will soon be home to the Trinidad Tea Company, owned and operated by a talented local couple, opening this summer and giving a first glimpse at the long-term vision for the fully revitalized theatre.

Anniversaries:

• Cañon City Celebrates its 150th Anniversary in 2022: Cañon City turns 150 in 2022, and the city has planned a year-long celebration filled with events for all ages. Events include a Gala, Jubilee and Fireworks, Concert, themed monthly First Fridays and more. The anniversary year encourages residents and visitors to explore themes of history and education, innovation and entrepreneurship, social equity and robust democracy, as well as arts and leisure.
• Colorado Parks and Wildlife Celebrates its 125th Anniversary in 2022: Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) will celebrate by telling the agency’s long history of wildlife conservation and outdoor recreation in a series of stories, videos, podcasts and community events throughout 2022.
• Iron Horse Bicycle Classic Celebrates 50 Years of Racing the Train from Durango to Silverton (May 28-30): Half a century ago the Mayer brothers decided to race from Durango to Silverton: Tom on a bike, Jim aboard a steam-powered train. Every Memorial Day Weekend since, riders from around the U.S. and the world gather for fifty miles of cycling over two mountain passes that summit just under 11,000 feet. New additions to the 2022 event include a new segment from Ouray to Silverton, special dual slalom and roostmaster competitions and a special exhibit at The Center of Southwest Studies on the history of the Iron Horse Bicycle Classic.