The economy sucks but your love life doesn't have to.
If the economy is eating a hole in your wallet then check out these "5 Cheap Dates for the Thrifty Gay Man." I like the first one because Denver is full of museums and we have a great Botanic Gardens (pictured).
It gets even better in the winter with "Blossoms of Light."
As for #3, the potluck - I'll bring the beer.