Happy 15th Anniversary, Instinct Magazine!

Instinct magazine is turning 15 years old (but they don't look a day over 12!) and they are celebrating with November's Leading Men of 2012 issue. 

Says the mag, "This year’s honorees have raised the bar once again when it comes to be caring, creative and influential leaders—all of whom just happen to be proud members of our gay community. From equality activist Shane Bitney Crone and HIV/AIDS advocate Justin Terry Smith to artist Tennessee Loveless, blogger Jeremy Hooper and many more, meet the new class of gentlemen who now join the more than 160 Leading Men Instinct has honored throughout its history."

As a former contributor and longtime fan, I want to wish a very happy anniversary to Instinct - keep up the good work and thanks for many years of news and entertainment by, for, and about the gay community.

GLBT media news

JOSEPH LOUIS COTE JR, former publisher of the SAN FRANCISCO GAY GUIDE, died on Dec. 6 after a long battle with cancer and HIV. He was 50.

JOEL GINSBERG is resigning his position as executive director of the GAY AND LESBIAN MEDICAL ASSOCIATION. An interim executive director will be named, followed by a national search for a new leader.

JIM HOOVER, former publisher of Boston-based BAY WINDOWS, passed away on March 29 after a battle with cancer.

LAVENDER, based in Minneapolis, won eight awards at the 12th annual Minnesota Magazine Publishers Association Awards Dinner. The magazine won gold in the “best how-to article” (special interest under 60,000) category for “How To Spot a Trendy Restaurant” by CARLA WALDEMAR.

MICHAEL K. LAVERS, a contributor to PRESS PASS Q, has been promoted to National News Editor at EDGE Publications. He will now oversee the websites’ regional editors and correspondents.

JESSE MONTEAGUDO is now a contributor to THE GUIDE, writing news stories and adult DVD reviews for the gay men’s monthly.

QUEERCENTS.COM, a personal finance blog, has launched its new series called WEDDING ON A BUDGET.

WINDY CITY TIMES, based in Chicago, has partnered with the Chicago Red Stars, the city’s new women’s professional soccer team, on promotions targeting Chicago’s LGBT community.