April 19, 2017 :: Cannabis by OUT FRONT Magazine

APRIL 19, 2017

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Photo: The Fort Co. Photography

Dine Out. Do Good!

Thursday, April 27

Dine at these restaurants for breakfast, lunch, or dinner (or visit

Euclid Hall Bar & Kitchen Freshcraft Harry’s Bar & Grill Jax Fish House - LoDo Komotodo Sushi Burrito Little India - Downtown Machete Tequila + Tacos - Union AURORA Station Anthony’s Pizza & Pasta - Iliff & Mario’s Double Daughter’s Salotto Buckley Menya Noodle Bar Bent Fork American Grill Mercantile dining & provision Denver Biscuit Company - Aurora Old Major CHERRY CREEK/GLENDALE La Cueva Osteria Marco Barolo Grill Sam’s No. 3 Diner - Aurora Panzano Bruno’s Italian Bistro Stanley Beer Hall Racca’s Pizzeria Napoletana - Denver Bull & Bush Red Square Euro Bistro The Cherry Cricket BOULDER AREA Rhein Haus Cuba Cuba Sandwicheria - Glendale Anthony’s Pizza & Pasta - Longmont Rioja Beau Jo’s Colorado Style Pizza - Boulder Cucina Colore Trattoria & Bar Russell’s Smokehouse Hapa Sushi Grill and Sake Bar Blackbelly Sam’s No. 3 Diner- Downtown Jax Fish House - Glendale Bob’s Atomic Burgers Machete Tequila + Tacos - Cherry Creek The Squeaky Bean Farm + Table Mountain Sun Pub & Brewery Stoic & Genuine Piatti Southern Sun Pub & Brewery Tamayo Sam’s No. 3 Diner - Glendale The Pig & The Sprout BRIGHTON Tom’s Urban DOWNTOWN Anthony’s Pizza & Pasta - Brighton Two-Fisted Mario’s Pizza 1515 Restaurant Vesta Anthony’s Pizza & Pasta - Downtown CAPITOL HILL/CENTRAL Zengo Denver Anthony’s Pizza & Pasta - LODO 9th Door Capitol Hill Appaloosa Grill Angelo’s Taverna EAST COLFAX Biju’s Little Curry Shop Benny’s Restaurant & Tequila Bar Annie’s Cafe and Bar Biker Jim’s Gourmet Dogs Bones Bastien’s Restaurant Bistro Vendôme City, O’ City The Denver Biscuit Company - E Colfax Butcher’s Bistro Clyde Fat Sully’s Pizza - E Colfax Coohills Cuba Cuba Cafe & Bar Steve’s Snappin’ Dogs Corridor 44 DiFranco’s Trattoria Stella - Colfax Crave Real Burgers - LoDo Fruition Restaurant D’Corazon Gateaux Bakery

ALL DENVER / BOULDER LOCATIONS

Izu Sushi Little India - 6th & Grant Luca Mezcal Mizuna Prohibition Racines Restaurant SAME Café Shells and Sauce Table 6

EAST DENVER Anthony’s Pizza & Pasta 7th & Colorado The Cherry Tomato Desmond Bar & Grill Inga’s Alpine Tavern Lowry Beer Garden Monaco Inn Restaurant North County Park Burger - Hilltop Tables NORTHEAST DENVER Anthony’s Pizza & Pasta - Gateway Park Anthony’s Pizza & Pasta - Stapleton Jay’s Grille & Bar NORTHWEST DENVER/HIGHLANDS Bar Dough Billy’s Inn Block & Larder Café Brazil Central Bistro and Bar The Denver Biscuit Company - Highlands duo Restaurant El Camino Tavern Ernie’s Bar and Pizza Firenze a Tavola :: Authentic Tuscan Dining & Wine Bar Fat Sully’s Pizza - Highlands Gaetano’s Gallop Cafe Highland Tap and Burger Hops & Pie Linger LoHi SteakBar Lola Coastal Mexican

SHORTLINE SUBARU

DiningOutForLifeDenver.org | #DOFLDEN

A meal with heart gives hope.

Photo: McBoat Photography

In 2017, Project Angel Heart will deliver medically tailored meals to more than 2,900 Coloradans living with HIV/AIDS, cancer, kidney disease, and a variety of other serious illnesses. Meals are delivered to clients’ homes, free of charge, by caring volunteers. I have many days of fatigue when your meals save me from going without eating. You save our lives, literally. –Tom, HIV & kidney disease

a participating brewery!) on Thursday, April 27, and 25% of your bill will benefit Project Angel Heart. PARISI pizzeria, trattoria e vino Root Down Sloan’s Lake Tap & Burger The Way Back Trattoria Stella - Highlands The Truffle Table Uncle Vital Root NORTHWEST METRO Anthony’s Pizza & Pasta - 120th & Huron Anthony’s Pizza & Pasta 53rd & Wadsworth Asti d’Italia Beau Jo’s Colorado Style Pizza - Arvada Flatz Great Scott’s Eatery - Broomfield Great Scott’s Eatery - Denver Jewel of India Restaurant Tuk Tuk Thai Bistro - Westminster RINO/ FIVE POINTS Dunbar Kitchen & Tap House Hop Alley Hungry Bear Kitchen Los Chingones - Rino Nocturne Jazz Osaka Ramen Park Burger - RiNo The Populist Rosenberg’s Bagel and Delicatessen The Preservery SOUTH BROADWAY Adelitas Cocina y Cantina Beatrice and Woodsley Blue Bonnet Restaurant

Cafe 180 Chowder Room The Denver Biscuit Company - Broadway Fat Sully’s Pizza - Broadway Imperial Chinese La Cour Bistro & Art Bar Leña Punch Bowl Social Sputnik Sweet Action Ice Cream Taste of Thailand SOUTH DENVER Anthony’s Pizza & Pasta - Dartmouth Beau Jo’s Colorado Style Pizza South Denver Colore Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria La Fogata - Evans Menya Sushi Bar Sahara Restaurant The Wooden Table SOUTHEAST METRO Anthony’s Pizza & Pasta - Castle Rock Anthony’s Pizza & Pasta - Dry Creek & University Anthony’s Pizza & Pasta - DTC Anthony’s Pizza & Pasta - Lone Tree Anthony’s Pizza & Pasta - Parker Anthony’s Pizza & Pasta - Smoky Hill Augustine Grill Citron Bistro Cuba Cuba Sandwicheria DTC Farro Italian Restaurant India’s Restaurant La Fogata - DTC Land of Sushi

Suerte! The Village Cork Washington Park Grille

Los Chingones - DTC LuBo’s NY Pizza Sazza Tuk Tuk Thai Grill - DTC SOUTHWEST METRO Anthony’s Pizza & Pasta C470 & Bowles Anthony’s Pizza & Pasta Highlands Ranch Anthony’s Pizza & Pasta - Littleton Cuba Cuba Sandwicheria Highlands Ranch Romano’s Italian Restaurant - Littleton The South Restaurant UPTOWN ACE Eat Serve Avenue Grill beast + bottle Blueprint Bar Coperta Mile High Hamburger Mary’s Steuben’s Food Service Vine Street Pub & Brewery WASH PARK/DU 730 South Anthony’s Pizza & Pasta - DU Atticus Bittersweet Blackbird Public House Bonnie Brae Tavern, Inc Carmine’s on Penn Little India - South Downing Max Gill and Grill The Rosedale

WEST METRO/MOUNTAINS 240 Union Restaurant - A Creative Grill Anthony’s Pizza & Pasta Alameda & Simms Anthony’s Pizza & Pasta - Conifer Anthony’s Pizza & Pasta - Evergreen Anthony’s Pizza & Pasta - Golden Beau Jo’s Colorado Style Pizza Evergreen Blue Sky Cafe and Juice Bar Brodo Italian Scratch Kitchen Chad’s Grill Jose’ O’shea’s Little India - Belmar Moose Hill Cantina Motomaki The Cow / An Eatery Tuk Tuk Thai Grill - Lakewood Wasabi Sushi Bar – Belmar MEAL DELIVERY SERVICE SupperBell BREWERIES Avery Brewing Restaurant & Tap Room Black Shirt Brewing Co. Call to Arms Brewing Company Little Machine Beer

One Lucky Diner Will Win a $2,500 GIFT CARD from King Soopers!

making a measurable difference

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projectangelheart Outfrontmagazine.com

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CONTENTS

APRIL 19, 2017 vol40 no26

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12 THE SHORT DOC ‘CECIL & CARL’ 15 HOW LGBTQ FRIENDLY IS THE CANNABIS INDUSTRY? 16 DENVER’S THE GAY STONER 27 THC & HIV: RELIEF FOUND IN THE FLOWER 33 CANNABIS GUIDE FOR FIRST TIMERS 34 CBD FOR A SCARRED KNEE

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Recent winner of 8 awards from the Society of Professional Journalists, an Excellence in News Writing award, and an Excellence in Feature Writing award from the National Lesbian & Gay Journalists Association.

OU TFRO N TMAGAZINE.COM

Serving the LGBT Community of the Rocky Mountains since 1976 Phone 303-477-4000 • Fax 303-325-2642 Web OutFrontMagazine.com Facebook /OutFrontColorado Twitter @OutFrontCO Instagram /OutFrontColorado FOUNDER Phil Price 1954-1993 ADMINISTRATION info@outfrontmagazine.com Jerry Cunningham Publisher J.C. McDonald Vice President MaGGIE Phillips Operations Manager Jeff Jackson Swaim Chief Strategist EDITORIAL editorial@outfrontmagazine.com Ryan Howe Editorial Brent heinze Senior Columnist arianna j. balderrama Editorial Intern Jeremiah ntepp Editorial Intern SARAH FARBMAN Copy Editor Contributing Writers Joseph Soto, Addison Herron-Wheeler, David-Elijah Nahmod, Mike Yost ART art@outfrontmagazine.com Lisa Force Art Director CONTRIBUTING artists Charles Broshous MARKETING + SALES marketing@outfrontmagazine.com DUSTIN KRIER Director of Sales & Marketing TOPHER LA FLEUR Marketing Executive Trevor Hoyt Marketing Executive National Advertising Rivendell Media 212-242-6863 | sales@rivendellmedia.com DISTRIBUTION

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Bobby LeFebre MSU Denver ‘04 Poet. Visionary. Roadrunner.

As an award-winning poet, spoken word artist, actor and social worker, Bobby LeFebre found his voice at MSU Denver. For him, words are “indestructible bridges connecting us all across social, political, cultural and psychological borders.” At MSU Denver, we’ve been transforming lives and empowering our students to find their personal road to success for more than 50 years. msudenver.edu/road

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trumpdate joseph soto editorial@outfrontmagazine.com

We’re back! As usual there’s a lot to discuss, so let me know if I missed anything, and what you think about the past few weeks of Donald Trump’s administration.

stands on gun safety, and I’ve been upfront about where my opinion falls, too. I’ll let you decide where you stand.

Donald Trump and Gun Safety

It is unnecessary for political commentators and social critics to discuss a political figure’s family. However, when those family members influence the political figure’s ability to make decisions on behalf of their constituents it is a matter for discussion.

Politico reported that on February 28th Donald Trump signed a specific piece of legislation passed under the Congressional Review Act, one of — at the time — eleven times he had done this. H.J. Res 40 repealed an Obama-era regulatory policy aimed at making it more difficult for the mentally ill to purchase firearms. This was done largely without the invitation of the public, and at the behest of the National Rifle Association, even though a majority of its members support sensible gun safety measures, according to Politifact. This, and other potential gun safety policies Donald Trump and the men who run his Administration are in favor of enacting, would likely make our communities less safe. FiveThrityEight is one of a few organizations collecting data on gun violence across America, and according to them more than 33,000 Americans die by firearm every year — including thousands of potentially preventable homicides. That number includes more than 20,000 of our neighbors who have died by suicide with a firearm. Of course, it is unfortunate common knowledge within our community that LGBTQ people are much more likely to attempt suicide than non-LGBTQ people. So, it is difficult from a facts-based perspective to see how the administration’s stated positions and actions on the issue will protect communities like ours from unnecessary gun violence. Author’s Note: Gun safety is a policy issue I am very passionate about. I believe that our communities deserve to be protected from unnecessary gun violence. I have given you the facts to make your own opinion about our president and where he 6 \\ A P R I L 1 9 , 2 0 1 7

Donald Trump and His Daughter

NBC News reported that Donald Trump’s decision to strike Syria in a limited military assault using 59 Tomahawk missiles was ultimately swayed by his daughter Ivanka’s strong feelings about the situation. This was an act of aggression, but this was not a significant use of the military’s overall budget. This will likely go unmatched by Russia or Assad in Syria outside of their normal military operations. However, if his daughter has the power to engage the United States military simply by expressing her feelings on Syria’s state-sanctioned domestic chemical weapons attack to her father, it is concerning. The US has not engaged any form of diplomacy and hollowed out a significant chunk of our diplomatic team that could have negotiated peace through diplomacy. From a diplomatic standpoint Donald Trump’s military action set a potentially messier “red line” than President Obama did. Now he will have to meet every Russian and Syrian incursion of similar or worse egregiousness and continually risk starting an even more violent proxy war. If he doesn’t do this he’ll risk losing any credibility he has with the international community and the political independents here at home. It is important to our community what influence the president’s daughter has on his policy decisions because policy is generally best when

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decided away from emotions and using facts-based, logical analyses of the various arguments. As we continue to fight for our own civil liberties in this country, we should be confident that the president has the necessary intelligence behind him to keep us safe. Daughters with no political experience, no military experience, and no experience in public service generally don’t make for the best military strategists.

Donald Trump and the Supreme Court

In a Reuters story carried by Newsweek, the Supreme Court issue was brought up again in the context of what it could mean for the future of our country. The story talked about a potential second Supreme Court vacancy that could open up for Donald Trump in the next year or two — the seat held by Anthony Kennedy. It said, “Kennedy, a conservative who sometimes sides with the court’s liberals in key cases such as on gay rights and abortion, is one of three justices 78 or older. Justice Stephen Breyer is 78 and fellow liberal Ruth Bader Ginsburg is 84.” Donald Trump could have a second vacancy on the Supreme Court in the next year. That is a major concern for our community. The ability of Donald Trump to control the Supreme Court for a generation with potentially Borkian conservatives should be a possibility that stirs us all to action. Civil rights have generally come from the Supreme Court. This is true for the modern LGBTQ rights movement, as the justices have forced progress on issues like marriage equality, anti-sodomy legislation, health care, and equality in public accommodations. Who sits on the Supreme Court could decide

which struggles for civil equality we win and lose. There are currently issues focusing on public accommodation access for trans students, and regulatory interpretation of language around LGBTQ job protections waiting to be heard by the Supreme Court.

Donald Trump and North Korea

Though this story doesn’t get as much attention as the military strike in Syria, the potential for military escalation with North Korea or China should be on our minds as well. Recently, BBC reported, “China’s President Xi Jinping has called for a ‘peaceful’ resolution to tensions over North Korea, in a phone conversation with US President Donald Trump.” Prior to that phone call, Donald Trump tweeted that he was not afraid to act alone on North Korea if China wouldn’t. This came after Donald Trump sent a military ship craft to the region in a show of military force. The past Trumpdates have been domestic-issue heavy, but other international issues such as the North Korean escalation matter to our communities because it is an issue Donald Trump alone has largely used to justify increased defense spending while cutting spending for public works and social welfare programs ranging from PBS to Meals on Wheels. We should be critical of every President’s decision to engage our military abroad. When it comes to Donald Trump’s decision to heighten tensions with North Korea, it is within reason to question whether this attack benefited him and other aspects of his policy agenda.

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ardi Moore is a political activist, educator, community leader, and the proud and influential executive director of Out Boulder County.

Out is an organization that works to promote equality, advocates for social justice, and provides support to the queer community. The organization began in 1994 in collaboration with Gay Pride events. The organization had been better known as Boulder Pride because of its tradition of block parties, bright-colored hair and tiara-wearing commodifications of the gay rights movement. As the nonprofit grew, however, its purpose expanded beyond pride into a full-blown social justice operation known as Out Boulder, and as of April 2016 as Out Boulder County. Out is located in both Boulder and, as of April, Longmont, expanding accessibility and community involvement throughout one of Colorado’s most popular counties. Now spearheaded by the distinguished Mardi Moore, Out continues to grow with a wide range of queer identities, ages, and more than 150 regular volunteers. Popularly known for its transgender support services, Out’s goal is to serve Boulder County by offering queer programming, including support groups and community activities. The organization broadens its mission by being one of the only LGBT centers North of Denver, which forces them to reach outside of the county to provide resources beyond Boulder. Out has become the predominant resource for Colorado’s queer community at large. The organization is a great source of support and camaraderie and additionally pursues advocacy 1 0 \\ A P R I L 1 9 , 2 0 1 7

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work with businesses, queer-oriented and otherwise. Staff and volunteers partner with companies to teach inclusion and work to ensure that healthcare and non-discrimination policies are up to date with respect to trans inclusion. Sara Connell, the organization’s Trans* and Youth Film Program Coordinator, has trained a Boulder ad agency, Terrapin Station’s care staff, and a Colorado reproductive medical staff on how to be conscience toward the trans community and unique challenges that trans men might experience, such as pregnancy. Within the Boulder bubble, it is easy to believe in the blanket safety of a liberal community. But safety is always a major concern and a challenging one to account for. Six queer resource centers across the country have recently experienced hate crimes, from vandalism to bullets shot through windows. While Boulder is unlike many towns that are constantly under attack, it does not go unscathed by any means, and Out’s advocacy is essential. As many community members find relief and comfort from sources like Out, looming threats pose persisting worry. “After Orlando last year we had to start paying more attention and better our safety plans,” Moore said solemnly. “We have always been a relatively proactive movement, but right now, with the uncertainty and lack of stability of our leader, I feel like I’m in a very reactive mode waiting for the next terrible thing to happen. It’s really unsettling not to know when it’s going to come.” The demand for Out’s services and involvement has increased following the change in government. Moore

shared the overwhelming reaction of community members outside both office locations following the election results. “We were really ground zero for the queer community,” she said. Jennifer Molde co-founded the Trans Steering Committee in partnership with Out. This sector of the organization advises on how to confront transgender issues and organizes trans events. “Many LGBT organizations emphasize an LGB agenda; this branch makes sure to see that the T is fully recognized and confronted,” Molde said. After being a community member of Out for six years, Molde is now a facilitator for trans support groups as well. Molde shared Moore’s sentiments that, while the level of fear has risen, so too has the spirit to join together. “There are a lot of trans people who are now very motivated to be visible,” she said, reflecting on her own experience. She recalled feeling outside of the norm until finding other trans people to connect with through Out’s support services. With the human rights of trans people now directly under attack, the moment of desperation has encouraged many to confront their own suppressed identities and come together as allies. Support groups like Molde’s offer those who have felt uncomfortable with their identities the opportunity to feel validated and accepted with others who struggle alongside them. While any identity is welcomed at these meetings, many binary-abiding people tend not to feel so inclined. When asked what people can do in their daily lives on behalf of the trans community, Molde’s answer was simple: Learn and speak out. Be compassionate towards the challenges a trans person might face throughout their life. Do not be idle to injustices, including trans slurs and bathroom stares. “We need people to speak up and talk. Do not let ignorance pass,” Molde encouraged. Despite a trembling political situation, those who feel passionately about social justice have taken this time to truly come together, as Out has more allies and volunteers than ever before. Out has received a stream of love notes and flowers at the office doors, and even a few who stop in to give their thanks. “It’s really been nothing but support, and we’re very grateful for that,” Moore

reminds optimistically. Although the queer community has had several uneasy experiences, it is organizations like Out that continue to incite moments to celebrate for the queer community as well. Each year, Out funds a special project. In 2016 the organization ran an employment project, in which two individuals from Boulder were aided throughout their transition with assistance in their workplace. “We worked with employers and made sure the policies were in place at the corporate level and worked alongside coworkers to make the transition seamless,” Moore shared with pride.

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Out recently received funding for this year’s project, two summer camp programs for trans youth — one for sailing and another for horseback riding. TYES, Trans Youth Education Support, holds a summer camp for young trans kids, but there has yet to be a trans teen specific camp offered in Colorado. A Boulder Valley school district survey for bullying, self harm, and suicide rates amongst queer individuals reveals little shift from 2013 to 2015. State numbers reveal that the bullying rates for trans youth are at nearly 50 percent meaning that one in two trans-identified kids has been bullied, which can lead to selfinflicted harm and attempted suicide. Out currently offers four youth groups as well as a film project to provide support for Boulder and surrounding areas, and the summer program will provide the next step in creating a more positive environment for trans people. “We need to take two steps forward to be the organization that the community requires and deserves,” said Moore, looking to the future. Funding is always key to the life of nonprofits like Out, and although growth has ensued in the last few years, more aid is always needed. Regardless, Out will continue to educate business people and organizers on inclusivity in the workplace and will absolutely continue hosting support groups to all, including undocumented queers. “Sanctuary is always on our mind,” Moore said.

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Out’s doors are committed to staying open and providing what the community demands — unconditional support from moments of self-doubt to celebrations and pride of the whole self. Outfrontmagazine.com

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RYAN HOWE

‘Cecil & Carl’

The Short Doc Shares One Denver Gay Man’s Commitment to His Lover

ack in 2011, Elvis León was returning to Denver after a tour with the military. It was in the early days following the repeal of Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell — the policy in which queers could serve in the military but were not allowed to openly discuss their sexuality — and the public’s perception of the LGBTQ community had drastically changed. The change in perception, as we know, was positive. Being queer was slowly but surely becoming a ‘normal’ thing. This was a stark contrast to how Elvis viewed queer people. Before enlisting in the military, Elvis grew up in a Catholic

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household where homophobia was “just a part of their lives.” He recalls uncles and cousins who were cast out of the family for being gay, and admits that he never truly understood the disownment but thought it was normal. So when he returned from his stint in Iraq and moved into one of Denver’s gayest neighborhoods, Capitol Hill, Elvis was thrust into a new way of life. “It was a culture shock,” Elvis said. “I was bombarded with a lot and I had to face it head-on because it was all around. I realized that it was a normal thing, that it was here to stay, and you have to accept it.” Today, six years later, Elvis is getting recognition all over the LGBTQ film festival scene for his short documentary, Cecil & Carl — thanks, in large part, to a series of very gay events and one incredibly interesting man: Cecil Bethea.

Elvis and his crew followed him as he visited Carl and pushed him to their favorite spots. “Carl had his favorite places that Cecil loved bringing him to … still,” Elvis said. “Even though they didn’t really speak to each other, which was the most interesting thing of all. They just kind of sat in silence and smoked. We have so much footage of them smoking, man. Like chimneys, both of them.” In the first moments of the short film, we see Cecil reading a letter that he wrote to a judge explaining why he should grant him co-guardianship and co-conservatorship of his lover, Carl. Citing the date the two leased an apartment together as a relationship indication, Cecil pleads for the judge to recognize the relationship between two men that had, up until that moment, lasted 43 years, eight months, one week, and four days.

You might have heard of Cecil, or perhaps spotted him pushing another man slouching in a wheelchair up the inclines of LoHi in pursuit of Little Man Ice Cream. The man sitting comfortably in the wheelchair is Cecil’s lover of 47 years, Carl.

This followed a short story of a small cherry tree the couple planted together. The first year the tree gifted them enough fruit to make a small tart. For the next five years, the couple sat patiently as it refused to bear a single cherry.

from Cecil while he sits and watches Carl chainsmoke cigarettes is apparent. It’s a love that truly has survived through sickness and through health.

engaged, the good times, and the bad ones. We hear Cecil brag about his lover’s skills, while taking a peek at the home they built together. Most of the film’s action involves Cecil taking Carl around the Denver area doing mostly mundane things: tying his shoes, shaving his face, lighting his cigarettes.

Cecil “But lord, did they produce,” he Around the same time that Elvis while staring out the and Carl’s story recalled was returning to the states, Cecil window, a stream of smoke sliding and Carl’s lives were also making up the screen from his cigarette. “… a transition. After sharing a is not a story about did they produce.” home in northwest Denver It’s a strong image, this short, for nearly four decades, Cecil two gay men; somewhat useless story of an would be returning to the twocherry tree. But it is a true testament story house alone, the result to the patience, challenges, turmoil, of dementia and a stroke Carl it’s a story about and eventual reward so many queer suffered in December 2011. people are forced to face — especially unconditional Since then, Cecil has been taking our predecessors. care of his lover. They visit their Throughout the film, we hear about the favorite places, and while very little love. moment the two met, how they became is actually said, the love that radiates “Sometimes these stories just fall into your life,” Elvis said. “I was just clever enough to pursue it.” While filming a web series at Charlie’s that told the story of a straight bar owner transforming his hetero bar into a homo one, Elvis crossed paths with the Prime Timers, a group of elderly gay men who meet regularly in Denver. “We saw this group and we were like, ‘Wow, imagine the stories in this room,’” Elvis recalled. “These are 60-, 70-, 80-year-old men who were gay in a time when that wasn’t allowed and sort of looked down upon. We wondered if there were any jewels in the bunch. That’s when I met Cecil.”

This film is filled with beauty, humanity, heartbreak, history, and tragedy. While it is a lot of emotion to fit in a 14-minute documentary, Elvis, co-director Gastón Yvorra, and coproducer Sasha Milonova perfected the slow-paced storyline. Cecil & Carl on the surface is a memoir of the life these two men built together, and how they overcame one of the biggest challenges in their lives. But that’s not what makes this film stand out. Cecil and Carl’s story is not a story about two gay men; it’s a story about unconditional love.

It’s apparent while watching the 15-minute minidocumentary why Elvis decided to follow Cecil for eight days, and spend an entire year piecing the film together.

As the film continues to make its rounds through the filmfestival scene, Elvis, Gastón, and Sasha have started a GoFundMe to help with festival fees and travel expenses. You can donate at GoFundMe.com/CecilAndCarl.

During those eight days, Cecil opened the doors to his home, which has deteriorated over the years, and shared his story that spans decades. They covered the basics and dove deep into Cecil’s greatest, saddest, and most moving memories.

“It’s an expensive business,” Elvis said. “Everyone who worked on this project did it without compensation. We did it because we fell in love with Cecil and Carl’s story. Now we just want to share it with as many people as we can.” Outfrontmagazine.com

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Tyler’s Suite Rocky Mountain Premiere

May 5—Broomfield Auditorium 7:30pm May 6—Central Presbyterian Church, Denver 7:30pm

presented by

Harmony: a Colorado chorale with

Sine Nomine under the direction of

Dr. Tim Seelig Artistic Director, San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus 1 4 \\ A P R I L 1 9 , 2 0 1 7

Tickets: $25 adults $20 students

Harmony will host a VIP Reception immediately following the May 6 performance, oﬀering an opportunity to meet with

& seniors

Jane Clementi, Dr. Seelig and

$5 from each ticket donated to

and beverages will be served.

all the soloists. Hors d'oeuvres

$60, including ticket to show,

Available at harmonychorale.org

with a portion donated to the Tyler Clementi Foundation.

How

Addison Herron-Wheeler

lgbtq-Friendly is the Cannabis Industry

here are many assumptions about the cannabis industry, ranging from the spot-on to the completely-out-ofproportion. Based on the liberal nature of legal cannabis, many assume that the industry is a safe haven for women, people of color, LTBGQ individuals, and anyone who has been generally marginalized by the straight world. However, the world of weed has gotten its fair share of criticism as well. Anyone with a felony is excluded from working with cannabis in Colorado, which means anyone who may have turned to crime due to class struggle, or worked with the plant when it was still resigned to the black market, doesn’t have a chance. Furthermore, the industry has been criticized for being white washed, since mostly caucasian, upper-class individuals have the means to launch start-ups in an uncertain new industry. Based on my personal experience in the industry, as well as testimony from others, it appears that there are many things that are done well when it comes to inclusion, but there are a few areas that get overlooked. For example, it is mostly assumed that the entire industry is so liberal that no one is excluded, which creates a culture in which people aren’t checking that inclusion always happens. Even though there are a lot of women in the industry, sexism still occurs, and people often fail to account for LGBTQ individuals, or the fact that most people in the industry are white and upper-class. “Day to day, I think that the cannabis industry is more openminded about LGBTQ lives than some other industries,” explained Matt Bell, founder of Nerve Consulting, a cannabis marketing company based out of Denver. “I’ve never had a specific problem with anyone on the account that I am a gay man. That said, I feel that the LGBTQ members of this industry feel invisible. We have no organization or social events with consumption. I have also noticed that the industry becomes much more of an old-school men’s game at the bigger conferences, where I’ve seen female executives cat-called and groped.” Similarly, as a queer/bisexual woman, I have noticed plenty

of inclusion of women in the industry but an overall hetero vibe when it comes to cannabis spaces. Many of the women I encounter while working, although they have been wonderful influences and hard workers, have been white, straight women from affluent backgrounds who lead fairly traditional lives outside of what many would perceive as a non-traditional job. This is not surprising, as many of the women who find themselves involved in the industry do so because they have encountered the healing powers that cannabis has for their children or someone in their family. Still, this creates a culture in which many of the people working with cannabis are mothers or young professionals, and there are not a lot of people with more colorful, interesting, and diverse backgrounds. However, the industry has definitely made it a point to support LGBTQ issues. Good Chemistry, a local dispensary in Denver, goes out of their way every year to sponsor the AIDS Walk and give back to the LGBTQ community. Cannabrand, a cannabis marketing company from Denver, headed up an “LGBTHC” ad campaign for Botanico. According to their founder, Olivia Mannix, Cannabrand is “totally friendly, as everyone should be” when it comes to supporting LGBTQ rights within the industry. According to Bell, however, part of the reason there is a lack of LGBTQ visibility in the industry is because of the advocacy and acceptance people already support, even if they are hetero themselves. “I feel that the lack of organization is partially because LGBTQ people feel accepted by the cannabis industry as a whole so there’s no need to organize,” he explained. Whatever the cause, it is clear that the cannabis industry has its heart in the right place when it comes to acceptance and inclusion but sometimes may overlook diversity due to privilege within. As the world of cannabis changes and molds based on loosening laws and increased participation, this will hopefully change for the better. Outfrontmagazine.com

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denverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

y ga r e n o t s the

Shatters Stereotypes & Grows Online Following ryan howe

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f you visit YouTube, throw the words “the gay stoner”or “gay weed” into the search bar, and hit enter, the page quickly redirects you to a slew of videos of a handsome, blonde man proudly displaying his cannabis paraphernalia and looking blitzed out of his mind. This is Denver’s Arend Richard, or better known as The Gay Stoner. Richard, who started making YouTube videos to make his friends laugh, skyrocketed into YouTube stardom when he published a video of him smoking from a pipe. The video, unlike his previous ones, garnered nearly 10,000 hits. That’s when it clicked for him. “I saw a niche that hadn’t been filled, and I snatched it,” Richard said. “On YouTube, everyone needs a niche, or you’ll just fade into the millions of videos on the site. To be a gay YouTuber and get followers you have to be drop dead gorgeous and take your shirt off every time you are on camera. That isn’t my gig. Smoking pot however, totally is.”

have heard from straight people in their lives who don’t understand that the queer community is vast and filled with people from all walks of life. This is something Richard is trying to get across in his videos. “I realize that I have an audience that a lot of queer YouTubers don’t receive,” Richard said. “So I try to be as authentic as I can in the videos, and I take the time to respond to anyone who reaches out to me. There are days when all I do is reply to snapchats or tweets. I think that is really important.” It’s his dedication, intelligence, and playfulness that continue to draw in viewers all over the world. Of course, it doesn’t hurt that when he smiles flash flood warnings are issued near anyone watching the videos. I mean, ust look at him!

“There are always going to be haters,” Richard said. “But, I know I’m actually impacting people and broadening their mind on sexuality or cannabis. That’s why I do it, and why I’ll continue making these videos.”

He found a home as a “WeedTuber” where he dives into the elevated world of legal, recreational marijuana. There are only a few cannabis vloggers on YouTube, and out of the handful only two or three have more than 100,000 subscribers. Richard is rapidly reaching that goal with more than 43,000 subscribers to his page currently — thanks in some part to his time spent with the queen of marijuana Laganja Estranja. Three months ago, Richard starred in a video with Laganja Estranja, the drag queen who stole stoner’s hearts during her time on Rupaul’s Drag Race Season 6, where the two sat in the World of Wonder studio, smoked a lot of weed, and played a few memory games. Once the video was released, his subscribers and viewers started getting a little higher too. World of Wonder is the queer YouTube powerhouse that hosts a slew of drag queen videos like UNHhhh, Alyssa’s Secret, Fashion Photo Review, and UNTUCKED — the follow up web series to RuPaul’s Drag Race. “My channel has opened up so many doors for me, and sometimes it’s easy for people to get lost in that. They let it go to their heads,” Richard said. “But as I continue to do these really cool things I don’t forget that there are so many other people who want to do what I’m doing, and that humbles me and keeps me grounded.” For Richard the videos have a deeper meaning that just watching a cute boy get ripped on camera and showing his viewers how to make a bong out of Smart Water bottles. He’s bridging a gap between two different worlds. Being both queer and a WeedTuber, Richard draws in two different types of viewers — those who connect with him for being gay and those who connect with him through cannabis. One of the most recurring comments on his videos is, “I hate gay people, but I love you.” It’s something a lot of queers

As his channel garners more attention so does his schedule. Richard recently collaborated with the glassmaker GlassNobody to launch a Gay Stoner pipe. It’s a simple, orange, spoon pipe with a black rake designed onto it. “If you have to ask about the rake, then you just won’t understand,” Richard said through a half crooked smile. “It’s an inside joke with my viewers and you’ll have to catch up on my channel if you want in on the joke.”

He’s also in cohoots with a few other queens from Drag Race who are interested in making videos with him during his time at Drag Con in LA. But as he continues to garner support from the queer community, the cannabis industry has been more reluctant. Multiple companies have reached to him, and vice versa, with interest in partnering, but as soon as he discloses the nature of his channel they back away. He believes this is because of his sexual orientation. “I think the cannabis industry is super homophobic,” Richard said. “The LGBTQ community is not catered to at all by the cannabis industry. They don’t consider us part of the demographic, when in reality we are a huge part of the demographic. I’m not sure why this is, but I know that I want to try and change that.” He’s also not a stranger to being called a faggot. While he’s heard it occasionally while walking the streets of Denver, it’s on his videos that hate gets thrown at him on the daily. For every video he does, the hateful word is cast through the internet at him at least 10 times. At first, this bothered him. But he’s learned to just delete the notification from his phone and focus on his viewers that continue coming back to support him. “There are always going to be haters,” Richard said. “But I know I’m actually impacting people and broadening their mind on sexuality or cannabis. That’s why I do it and why I’ll continue making these videos.” Check out Richard’s YouTube channel or his website TheGayStoner.com to purchase the Gay Stoner pipe. Outfrontmagazine.com

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RYAN McGINLEY THE KIDS WERE ALRIGHT

HOURS, ADMISSION, EVENTS

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effort It’s not 2013 anymore,

and the number of ingredients you can — well, legally — put in your next delicious drink keeps getting...higher.

There are dozens of drinks from mixologists all over the internet infused with “dat good good,” but if you’re being honest with yourself, you’re probably not looking to put too much effort into a drink. We here at OUT FRONT get that, and we’ve got you covered. Here are the easiest infused drinks make.

The Melamine

Vodka cranberries are always an option if you’re buying someone a drink, but they are also kind of tired. The Melamine ads a new twist to an old classic. Created by Rabib Rafiq, this creation features cannabis-infused Chartreuse, bitters, and rhum agricole (rum made with sugar). This fruit-colored drink has a full flavor that betrays its fun appearance. Memorable, the Melamine is a drink most will want to try at least once. The ingredients make for a fun trip to the store, and the actual drink takes less than two minutes to make. Ingredients: 1 oz. cannabis-infused green Chartreuse 1 ½ oz. gran classico bitters (or 25 milliliters Campari) 1 oz. rhum agricole  Directions: Fill a mixing glass 2/3 full with ice Pour liquid ingredients over ice and vigorously stir until very cold Strain mixture into a champagne coupe or martini glass with no garnish.

Pro Tip: Mix the Chartreuse and bitters with Ron Zacapa 23 rum (but any high-quality aged rhum agricole will do). This can be served as a cocktail and it’s a great after-dinner drink; the herbal spirits help ease digestion. 2 0 \\ A P R I L 1 9 , 2 0 1 7

Magic Dragon Margarita

Who doesn’t enjoy a strong margarita every now and then? Well, the next time you’re looking to treat yourself and your friends to the perfect pregame, an easy one to make is the Magic Dragon Margarita from Paste Magazine. Featuring the traditional mezcal and triple sec with a simple syrup twist not always found in margaritas, this recipe could make a great non-infused cocktail as well. This drink takes minimal effort but produces one of the tastier margaritas you’ll drink. Ingredients: 2 oz. weed-infused mezcal 1 oz. lime juice ¾ oz. triple sec ½ oz. simple syrup Salt rim Lime wheel garnish Directions: Shake with ice until cold and blended Strain into double rocks glass rimmed with salt and filled with ice Garnish with lime wheel and, if you’re feeling generous, extra bud

less Cocktails for the

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Heady Eggnog

Bud Rum

Believe it or not, High Times has a recipe for Heady Eggnog that is easier to make than most standard eggnog recipes I have seen, and that’s including the two extra steps needed to make the ‘next-generation bourbon whiskey’ that’s the centerpiece of this heavy holiday drink. Check in with friends about their pot preference before serving, but otherwise, check out this easy cocktail concoction made with the most interesting plant since mistletoe.

Okay, maybe this isn’t the easiest drink. It admittedly takes four days to make, but takes only a few minutes of your time over those four days. Herb posted a recipe for Bud Rum that is effortless and provides a decent amount of infused rum that can be used for everything from shots (if you like punishing yourself) and rum and cokes to daiquiris and adult iced teas. This makes the perfect 21-and-over addition to any backyard barbecue or picnic.

Ingredients: 6 Eggs 3 cups Heavy Cream 1 tsp Salt 1 tbsp Vanilla Extract 3/4 cup Sugar 1 cup Weed Bourbon Whiskey Nutmeg Directions: Separate egg yolks and egg whites into two bowls Add sugar to the yolks and whisk rapidly for 2 minutes Add the heavy cream, vanilla extract and bourbon, and whisk until ingredients are distributed evenly Place the egg whites in a stand mixer (or use a hand mixer), add salt, and whip on high speed until stiff peaks form Gently fold stiff egg whites into the yolk mixture Grate nutmeg into the mixture while folding Refrigerate one hour and serve with grated nutmeg on top

Ingredients 8 grams cannabis 750 milliliters (a fifth) of light 80-proof rum Directions Grind the cannabis and add to rum. Store in a cool, dark place for 4 days, shaking vigorously every day. On the fourth day, boil a large pot of water. Once it’s boiling turn off the heat and sit the sealed bottle of rum in the hot water for 30 minutes. The water level should not cover the top of the bottle. Psychoactive ingredients in the cannabis will activate and infuse the alcohol. Strain the vegetable matter out of the rum. Discard the leaves and use the rum to make your favorite cocktail!

OUT FRONT Note: Of course, only consider these drinks an option if you’ve got a few hours to chill and watch TV or something. Go to GoodToKnowColorado.com to learn more about how to use cannabis products safely and legally here in Colorado. Outfrontmagazine.com

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tony barlow shares his time as a queer in the marijuana industry The cannabis industry is full of those who arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t afraid to let their true colors show, whether that means gender or sexual identity, personal style or business ethics. Tony Barlow, the sales and marketing director at Colorado Product services, is a driven account manager who wants to rise to the top and push the limits of legal weed, all while celebrating himself for who he is. How did you get started in the cannabis industry and what do you do? I worked for Cintas as a sales manager and one of my customers was in the marijuana industry. They approached me saying that I sell them services they donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t need or want and I always close the deal. They offered me a territory sales position. Within a month, I was promoted to director of sales. I was with that company for a year before I fell upon greener pastures with Colorado Product Services. I took a sales position with them and was promoted to director of sales within three weeks.

When did you first come out as an LGBTQ individual, and how did that manifest? I grew up in Kansas within an ultra-conservative Christian family. At 19, I came out to my family, and that was poorly received. I moved to California two weeks after I turned 21 to find myself and to make sense of who I wanted to be in life. I worked for the government with the Flood Control District. Finally, eight years later, my parents and I grew a strong,

loving relationship, which prompted me to move to Colorado to be near my folks and the people I hold dearest to my heart. Reflecting on this has me in tears seeing how the progression of love I feel from my family everyday has made me the man I am today.

How LGBTQ-friendly do you think the industry is? The LGBTQ community, in my opinion, has always been full of trendsetters. We work together as a coalition to push each other to do the best we can no matter the occupation or industry. Our community has always fought together for what is right and equal. The marijuana industry is very LGBTQ-driven and occupied because we, alongside our straight allies, understand that cannabis is not just used for recreational purposes but for

Outfrontmagazine.com

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medical use as well, which especially gives me the drive to meet those needs for patients who don’t want to get stuck on addictive opioids pushed by huge pharmaceutical companies driven by sales and making their CEOs’ pockets deeper.

What have been your biggest challenges in the industry so far? My biggest and only challenge in the industry is worrying every day if the presidential administration is going to shut down this ever-growing, billion-dollar-tax-revenue industry that is here to help patients diagnosed with PTSD, epilepsy, and cancer, just to name a few conditions. It falls on all Americans to research the benefits of cannabis and keep up the fight for what is humane and just.

What do you hope for the future of the industry? I hope the future holds federal acceptance of cannabis and that it is accessible for all Americans and hopefully worldwide following that.

How do you think the cannabis scene and LGBTQ culture can help each other? It already has and is a work in progress. Acceptance on both sides has brought communities of all walks of life to help understand individuality and that you are the person you make yourself. Race, sexual orientation, religion, and so on all come together. We are on the forefront of breaking boundaries and teaching acceptance.

What do you want people to know about yourself or your company? I feel blessed and fortunate to work not only in the industry but for a company that is loving and caring, where we all know we have each others’ back no matter what. Colorado Product Services is the fastest growing company in the industry. We closed on 86 new dispensaries to carry our products in new locations in March alone. The whole company works as one cohesive unit to ensure we put the safest, most compliant, top-of-the-line product on all of our customers’ shelves.

Where do you see yourself in ten years? I see myself alongside the Colorado Product Services team nationally within 10 years, with government approval of course. There is a ceiling that hasn’t even been broken yet, but I know our company will be the one to break that ceiling first. Cocky? No. Confident that our company is on our way to the top? Abso-fucking-lutely!

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Hayden Bass, if he’ll excuse me, is so dope. In his field, you expect nothing less — but as the retail director of downtown’s Local Product of Colorado, he’s got a mind like a steel trap for the work he loves. But before the retail-minded Hayden gets into the business of it all, he wanted to talk to the readers of our magazine specifically: “Our staff is mostly LGBT,” he said. “We cover the spectrum from lesbian and gay to trans and pan,” he said like a proud father. The man knows who he wants on both sides of the counter, which also includes folks on the cutting edge of cannabis and its ensuant tech industry. But first, I have to ask about the name, which, let’s be honest, has a very “Standard Corporate Cannabis Company” feel to it, which isn’t something Elon Musk, The Titan of Tomorrow, might name something that’s on the edge of tool’s blade. He shared a laugh, but has a backup. Though he threw out a few kitschy names we — in the nature of good sport — won’t drop, he said that though he didn’t name the company, he “gets it.” “I think [the owners] wanted to go with something true to Colorado. We’re downtown based and didn’t wanna do something super Pot-Pot-Pot!” His gentle ribbing was both adorably childlike and astutely professional. “Honestly, we’re more about state and community — not just the actual product.” Hayden said the team wanted to strive for ‘boutique,’ rather than chain. When asked to clarify, he said, “In some shops, you get this computer where you order your stuff, then get it from a window and leave. Some shops have a windowgreeter, and you can tell you’re being ushered out as fast as

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possible, like at Wal-Mart or something.” Local Product of Colorado wants you to walk around, take a look, and ask questions. Sounds pleasant enough. But if all dispensaries are filled with local-grown product, what makes Local Product of Colorado’s stuff any different? “Community,” Hayden said. “We nurture the ‘familybusiness’ feel. Not just inside out boutique, but outside. We keep relationships with reputable people we know represent Colorado to the fullest.” He says there’s no compromise on integrity. But what we do find similar to an Musk-esque business model is the fact that, like distinguished brewers and their carriers, Local Product of Colorado isn’t afraid to pioneer new brands that haven’t been given the light of day in other shops. In taking on littleknown — but quality-tested — products, the’ve become pioneers in the up-and-coming cannabis market. From new strains to the latest tech for vape pens, they’re laserfocused on upcoming trends. “We’re one of the first in Denver where people get to try something no one’s had before,” he told OUT FRONT. “And it’s all been tested for high quality.” (Pun noticed, Hayden!) But don’t take our word for it — go see for yourself! Before you go, check out their recreational ad on page 29. One more bonus for medical patients? “We have $50 ounces for new medical members. After that, you get an ounce free every three months that you’re medical, as well as a free monthly 8th or a gram of wax every month. “We’re a big family down here,” he said. “Come join in.”

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Cannabis Guide for First Timers addison herron-wheeler

vs. indica

sativa

Legal cannabis is exploding in Denver and across the nation. Finally, individuals who smoke can go to the dispensary if they have an ailment or if they are looking for a recreational high. Those who were already familiar with the plant from the black market are rejoicing, but what about those who have never smoked because they feared the repercussions? Plenty of people avoided toking before it was given the green light, especially those in marginalized communities. LGBTQ individuals, namely individuals from older generations, may be wary just to head into a dispensary and place an order because they wouldn’t know what to ask for. Here are a few tips for those venturing into legal weed territory for the first time.

you learn the lingo and the essential differences between products, you’ll be more equipped to make decisions about cannabis.

1. Don’t be afraid of honesty

For many, the idea of going into a store that sells pot and explaining that you have problems with chronic pain, or that you want something to help you relax and sleep, can be a little bit terrifying and confusing. “Like millions of other well-educated, open-minded Americans, it never occurred to me that cannabis could have helped me with the side effects of chemo and the prescription drugs my doc prescribed,” explained Kim Schenk, one of the founders of Shine On, a fledgling company that will be offering support over the phone and online to older individuals who call in with questions about cannabis. The first step to knowing is asking, and budtenders are openminded and have a genuine desire to help those who are in pain or who want to recreate responsibly.

2. Start with the basics.

It’s hard to get good information about the kind of cannabis you want to try without learning about the basics. Educate yourself either online or in person with a budtender about the differences between indica and sativa cannabis strains and how they can affect the user. It’s also important to understand the potency of concentrates and edibles as well as the different methods of smoking and vaping. Once

3. Be prepared to make your own decisions.

“The most common misconception among people who are unfamiliar with cannabis is how different finding a treatment path is to the traditional medical model,” Schenk told OUT FRONT. “With cannabis, the patient is in charge of himself or herself and chooses the path. No one is going to prescribe a specific treatment for you. Doctors can only relay guidelines and anecdotal stories or risk losing their medical license because the federal government has deemed marijuana illegal for now.” The same can be said for recreational cannabis. While some individuals might swear up and down that indicas help you relax, or that vaping is the only way to get a clean, healthy high, everyone reacts to cannabis differently, has different ideas of what makes for a good time, and what is too much or not enough. Some good old-fashioned curiosity and healthy, guided experimentation are the only way to truly reach your own conclusions about the plant.

4. Have fun and try new things.

Remember, while asking about cannabis for the first time can be scary, it can also be fun, even if you are asking for medical reasons. Be bold and don’t be afraid to embrace trying new strains or ways to smoke and imbibe. You may find that certain strains totally improve your appetite or really enhance the experience of watching comedy or listening to your favorite music.

5. Always stick with safety first.

Above all, keep in mind that safety is first when trying a new substance. Always stick to recommended doses and be on the lookout for anything that doesn’t agree with you. Try using new forms or strains of cannabis with someone sober your first time to make sure that you feel safe and in control of your situation.

Outfrontmagazine.com

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perspectives

Mike Yost

cbd for a scarred knee A little over 10 years ago, before the pot shops dotted the Colorado landscape, I was biking my way through downtown Denver during morning rush hour. I attempted to maneuver over a set of light rail tracks, checking first to make sure the train wasn’t barreling down California Street. There was no train, but that’s when the front tire of my bike decided to wedge itself into the groove of the rail line. The front of my bike stopped. I, however, did not. Inertia can be a real asshat sometimes. Thanks a lot, science! It was summer, and I was wearing shorts. My bare knee struck the pavement first, followed by the rest of my body just before the bike came crashing down on top of me. The helmet I was wearing kept my brain from turning into scrambled eggs in a skull bowl, thankfully. Blood dripping from my right kneecap, I slowly got up and dragged my bike onto the sidewalk. A kind woman walking by stopped and asked if I was okay. I nodded while holding my knee , blood now running down the front of my leg like some macabre stream of crimson staining my socks and shoes. The wound is still visible on my kneecap, which I’m proud of. In the words of Tyler Durden, “I don’t want to die without any scars.” But even after a decade, I still have pain in my right knee, pain that has increased in intensity as I’ve gotten older. The dull aching that can blossom on hikes or long road trips, bad enough that I have to pull over to the side of the road. It’s no secret that CBD, a cannabinoid in marijuana, has

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pain-relief attributes. One example is a two-year, peerreviewed study using THC/CBD on patients who suffered from central neuropathic pain (CNP) as a result of multiple sclerosis (MS). Published in 2007, the study revealed that “THC/CBD was effective, with no evidence of tolerance, in these select patients with CNP and MS who completed approximately two years of treatment.” When I’ve smoked strains high in CBD (with varying amounts of THC), it feels like a quilt blanket is being draped over my shoulders — a quilt blanket made by my grandmother in her rocking chair, full of love and the smell of homemade chocolate chip cookies baking in the oven. It’s that good. Pre ’98 Bubba Kush is perhaps one of my favorite CBD strains. I felt warm and relaxed, pulling that imaginary quilt blanket tightly around my body. There was no immediate pain relief in my knee, but the euphoric feeling swept over my entire body, dulling the ache. Shark Shock, despite its name, is a very calming CBD strain. If an actual shark smoking Shark Shock was eating me, I’d be cool with it. It’s that relaxing. Similar to the Pre ’98, Shark Shock cultivated a whole-body euphoria. Bliss made tangible. Though I was hoping for the same pain relief I read about in those studies, there are too many variables to consider, such as the type of pain, the body’s psychology, and a tendency to bike through downtown Denver during morning rush hour. But the CBD strains do help my scarred knee, by wrapping me in a quilt blanket before I devour some homemade chocolate chip cookies.

legal Directory

CAN-I-BUS OR FLY? This is a frequently asked question by marijuana patients, caregivers, and enthusiasts who are wanting to travel outside their resident state. The question is one that immediately brings up one of the most debated political topics around the legalization of marijuana — federal versus state and local laws.

According to state law, whether or not you can fly within different areas of a single state in possession depends on the state in which you are traveling. Both Colorado and Washington states may allow adults 21 and older to have up to an ounce of marijuana, but those policies are at odds with federal law. Additionally, it is unclear how marijuana-infused edibles are interpreted under the law and the legal limits. According to federal law the answer is also no, you may not fly on a commercial airliner in possession of marijuana or products that contain marijuana. Airports, airspace, and airplanes all fall under federal jurisdiction and marijuana is considered illegal law Office Of byrOn blOcH & cHapleau, llc 303-331-1700 • BlochChapleau.com k. HammOnD, llc

under federal law, therefore being in possession is punishable by up to one year in prison and a minimum fine of $1000 for a first conviction. That was, until two weeks ago. Last year, President Obama issued Executive Order 21302, effectively removing marijuana from the list of controlled substances. And what does that mean for traveling while in possession of marijuana? Well, it’s not really clear. It seems like playing it safe in the short term is a better strategy than risking detainment at the airport, having your wacky-tobaccy confiscated or, worst yet, being thrown in jail. If you’re still unsure, or if you’ve been charged with marijuana possession, it’s important that you get in touch with an experienced marijuana defense attorney to fully understand your rights and ensure they are protected.

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Addison Herron-Wheeler

invites all to come dance in the dark There’s a new venue in town: not just any new venue, but one that recently snagged the Westword award for Best New Venue, even though they’ve only been around since November. This club is known as the Black Box, and it is home to all things underground and electronic.

Dubstep is the main focus of Black Box founder Nicole Cacciavillano, who has been running the extremely successful label and booking agency Sub.mission for years. But already drum n’ bass, techno, juke, grime, trap, and many other forms of underground EDM are finding their way either onto the main stage or into the free lounge area. Essentially, the space is acting as an underground haven for shows that may not find booking elsewhere, and so far Cacciavillano has received an extremely favorable response for her efforts. “The Black Box offers an experience unlike any other club,” she explained to OUT FRONT. “We are not trying to be fancy. 3 6 \\ A P R I L 1 9 , 2 0 1 7

The lounge has amazing artwork and music and is free most every night. We offer drink specials different nights of the week, and we have an amazing patio that we are starting to transform into an amazing summer space. The Black Box is deep, dark, and dangerous with a top-of-the-line sound system that will send vibrations from your toes to your nose.” The ambiance of the Black Box is dark and dingy without being claustrophobic. The rooms are painted entirely black, but the light-up, Day-Glo art on the walls and the projection screen for VJs in the main room, along with the rumbling bass and incredibly affordable drinks, make for a cozy and inviting experience. Cacciavillano said she was first inspired to open the venue because of the feeling she gets when standing in front of an amazing sound system. That raw passion for music, combined with the extreme community and unity felt in scenes like underground dubstep and drum n’ bass, have

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inspired a club that is less about being seen, picking up dates, and getting trashed and more about having genuine fun and appreciating the music. She claims that her goal for the Black Box is to have “A dark space where people can lose themselves to the music. A space where you can enter and enjoy the music and not worry about people looking at you while you let loose on the dance floor.” The venue also boasts inclusion for all, as according to Caccivaillano, it is a queer-friendly space. “The Black Box is a safe space for all,” she explained. “Everyone is treated equally, no exceptions to that rule.” She also added that staff, artists, and fans who identify as LGBTQ come through regularly.

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Open every Tuesday through Saturday, the Black Box is one of the newest places to see electronic music and grab a drink. Check out BlackBoxDenver.co to see all upcoming shows and events. Outfrontmagazine.com

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calendar LISA FRANK LOVES ROLL

4/21

It’s time to bring out the glam and glitz of the 90’s as Tracks transforms the joint into the fantastic world of Lisa Frank, complete with unicorns, glamorous cats, and an explosion of color. So don your brightest 90’s gear, lace up them skates, grab your trapper keepers and get ready to roll. 21+ Doors open at 9 p.m. and admission is free before 10 p.m. Presale tickets are available up until the day of the event. More information at Tickets.ExdoEvents.com.

4/22 LAGANJA ESTRANJA TAKEOVER PARTY Just two days after 4/20 Laganja Estranja, the queen of marijuana who death dropped her way into all of our hearts on RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 6, is taking over Trade as they celebrate their first anniversary. Get out and party while supporting one of Denver’s newest queer spaces, okkurrrrrr!

4/23 KAI LEE’S 4/20 KIKI End 420 weekend on a “high” note with Kai Lee’s 420 Kiki. A Show you will not want to miss! Hosted by Charlie’s very own Kai Lee Mykels, get high, get out, and laugh your ass off as the resident queens put on a great show for everyone to enjoy. Show starts at 10 p.m. Get there early as seats go fast. $4.20 liquid marijuana shots and smoker friendly giveaways as well!

4/27 Dining Out for Life Dine out. Do good! On Thursday, April 27, more than 250 restaurants and breweries in the Denver/Boulder area will donate 25 percent of sales to Project Angel Heart to support home-delivered meals for Coloradans living with HIV/ AIDS. Learn more and see the restaurant list at DiningOutForLifeDenver.org.

Tyler’s Suite Denver’s LGBTQA Harmony chorale presents Tyler’s Suite, a nine-piece choral movement dedicated to Tyler Clementi, a young musician who died by suicide in 2010 after being bullied by his roommate during his first weeks of college. Created under Tony award-winning Composer Stephen Schwartz and Dr. Timothy Seelig (San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus), the concert will be performed May 5th at the Broomfield Auditorium and May 6th at the Denver Central Presbyterian Church. Visit HarmonyChorale.org for more info.

5/5-6

paul bindel

richmond

20 1 7 : the south

you didn â&#x20AC;&#x2122; t

k now T

he charm and hospitality of the South are legendary: broad tables with rich food, stately colonial architecture, soft beds with mahogany bedframes. If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re not from the South, you might have a momentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hesitation and wonder, does the same hospitality apply to queer and trans visitors? The good news is that certain Southern cities never signed toilets into the law books, and Richmond, Virginia went even further by coming out of the closet.

In 2014, Richmond’s regional tourism board penned a series of letters to D.C., Boston, and Atlanta, as well as to celebrities like Oprah, Andy Cohen, and Ru Paul. “I’m gay,” they wrote to Ellen. “Not in a Los Angeles way. That would require beaches. I’m still me. Just gay.” So I went to find out how gay Richmond really is.

Richmond’s Roots I’m a little skeptical, TBH. Sure, John Rolfe was the first to make a bid for “Love is love” when he asked King James if he could marry Pocahontas at his nearby plantation. But Jefferson Davis didn’t just randomly choose Richmond as the capitol of the Confederacy. Midway through our whistle-stop tour of the city, Bill Martin, director of local history museum The Valentine, announced, “I just don’t feel like faking it today,” and redirected our bus to neighborhoods in the thralls of gentrification. Ain’t nobody here into Flannery O’Connor-style mystery and manners, at least for their own sake. The Valentine is committed to realness and relevance as it tells the story of all of Richmond’s history. Its current exhibit on Richmond families — It’s All Relative: Richmond Families (1616-2016) — includes the exhibition One Love: LGBT Families by Richmond photographer Michael Simon. “The concept of family within the LGBT community has historically and, out of necessity, been flexible,” explained Meg Hughes, Curator of Archives at The Valentine. “After coming out, many LGBT individuals are ostracized from their family and friends. However, everyone needs love, and the LGBT community has been actively creating support networks for decades.” These exhibits are not to be missed.

What to see, Who to Do Though Richmonders are surrounded by a rich and complex history, everyone here seems more excited about what’s coming next, led in no small part by the makers, chefs, artists, and designers of the city. As I left the Rooftop Bar (one of the best views of the city), I witnessed a man telling his friends why he left D.C. “I tell everyone I can that this is the place to move. Richmond’s the only place I want to be.”

had the perfect gift selection. If you stay downtown, fellas, take a walk after morning coffee to see the local shops. You can get fitted for a new tailored shirt or sport coat at the Ledbury HQ. It’s spring, girl. Show off those arms. After shopping, get yourself ready for a night out. Like other U.S. cities, Richmond’s gay venues were underground 50 years ago, but folks now have many options. Babes in Carytown was the local lezzie bar that drew the widest crowd. The college set, gogo dancers, and drag queens were out in full effect at Godfreys, while Barcode, which also has a restaurant, was better for mingling.

Oh Yeah, You Might Get Hungry Richmond foodies know how to eat, so you’ll have plenty of options. The oysters at Rappahannock Restaurant will make you want to live closer to the ocean. Lunch at The Daily is fresh, vegetarian-friendly, and delicious. I had the incredible scallion pancakes and dryfried eggplant at Peter Chang’s, whose James Beard Awardnominated owner calls Richmond home. If you’re looking for classic southern food in style, try Lemaire, with farm-to-table meats, wild-caught seafood, and delicious cocktails (whiskey lovers, get the RVA Boulevardier). If there’s one place you absolutely cannot miss, it’s L’Possum. On our visit, chef-owner David Shannon was walking around in a Tom of Finland-print chef-jacket. “It’s Pride Week,” he said with a grin. Though Shannon’s food and cocktails have earned a James Beard award, his restaurant’s overall aesthetic will also make you swoon. Unicorns, beefcakes, and rainbows bedeck the walls, and the naughty menu had us in titters. You might order Shiny Blue Ball for a cocktail, followed by an entrée like the Big Easy Blackberry Brined Quail — “Semi Boned & Sausage Stuffed, Astride Filthy, Dirty Naughty Rice, Crawdaddy Bisque & Lavender Pickled Okra” — and end your night with Hot Black Bottom A La Mode. This place is often booked two months in advance, so plan accordingly.

Where to Stay (We Didn’t Say “Sleep”) If your boyfriend gets teary-eyed to Rufus Wainwright or your partner loves pretty things, Quirk Hotel is your getaway. A former department store turned gallery turned art hotel, it’s bright with modern rooms that look straight out of Dwell Magazine. Each room features unique furniture and pieces from local designers and artists.

Last year, Richmond capped a five-year project that brought 100 new murals to the city — it looks a bit like Denver’s RiNo Art District everywhere. This strong art culture isn’t surprising: the city is home to Virginia Commonwealth University, the top-ranked public arts school in the U.S., as well as the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts (don’t miss their Fabergé) and soon the Institute of Contemporary Art.

For opulence, stay at The Jefferson, a sumptuous estate downtown (rumor has it that travelers dropped off baby alligators on their way North, which the Jefferson kept and raised in its fountains). Their tea room’s vaulted ceilings are perfect for gossip or a kiki, and its bedding will make you never want to leave.

For folks who get bored inside museums, Richmond has a ton of things to do outside. One of the best places to run in Virginia, Richmond boasts miles of trails along the James River. It’s also the only metro with whitewater river rafting in the heart of the city. And we’re talking class-five rapids.

If you go . . .

The best place to shop is Carytown, home to many boutique shops. The girls at Bygone’s vintage clothing store were very friendly, and Mongrel, one of many LGBTQ-owned shops,

United currently has direct flights to Richmond for under $400 round trip throughout the spring and summer. If you’re still not convinced that Richmond is queer enough, its Pridefest is on an island each September, and that’s pretty fabulously queer. You already know everyone in Puerta Vallarta…Try Richmond. Outfrontmagazine.com

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recove There’s a second graph that reads, what success really looks like. The hand-drawn arrow is now a frenzied scrawl, twisting and turning into huge, constricted knots where the arrow peeks out at the top, at success. Those frenzied scribbles represent all the failures and dead ends: maybe it’s a drawer full of rejection letters from publishers, maybe it’s a failed investment, or maybe it’s all the hours spent at shitty jobs to pay bills instead of nurturing creative outlets. Success truly isn’t linear, and the secret to getting there is to not to beat yourself up too much when that arrow suddenly takes a U-turn into Shitsville. I’ve heard several times in writing groups to “give yourself permission to suck.” William Faulkner didn’t pen The Sound and the Fury in a single day with no editing (though supposedly he often wrote naked, so maybe that’s the trick). I’ve discovered that the same concept applies to working towards my own recovery from depression and anxiety. If I were to draw that path on a graph, the scribbles, twists, and turns would fill the entire page with black ink. I’ve gotten absolutely wasted after swearing I would quit drinking because of what I call depressive hangovers—for weeks I barely tread water in that dark ocean of gloom brought on by the drinking. Anxiety still clouds my judgement by filtering out positive 5 0 \\ A P R I L 1 9 , 2 0 1 7

ou’ve probably seen the graphic. Usually it’s hand drawn. There’s a straight arrow that runs unbroken from the bottom left of a graph to the top right, with the word success at the top. Below it reads, what people think success looks like.

PRESSIO

inea l t

experiences and focusing singularly on past traumas. Sometimes I won’t eat the entire day, knowing that the lack of nutrition only exacerbates anxious thoughts. In the process of recovery, I’ve failed. I’ve forgotten to meditate before work. I’ve stopped taking meds because of the side effects. I’ve just been lazy and avoided engaging in any coping strategies (like ducking the gym). But again, a crucial component in mental-health recovery is levying a great deal of compassion and forgiveness toward the self. I’ve spoken to so many people who struggle with depression who are also some of the most kindhearted and empathetic beings on planet Earth . . . maybe in the entire Milky Way Galaxy. These are selfless peeps with hearts the size of Pikes Peak who are willing to help you paint, or take you to the airport at five in the morning, or help you move into that trendy 5thstory apartment in a building with no damn elevator. I’ve witnessed these same magnanimous chaps being exceedingly hard on themselves, especially when they relapse: “I’m such a piece of shit for getting drunk, again!” “I slept on my couch for three days. I’m such a loser.” “I don’t deserve help. I only deserve to die.” When working toward recovery, remember to give yourself permission to suck. No one is going to shake off depression in a single day with no editing. Allow yourself to pen multiple rough drafts of your life. Learn as much as you can when you end up taking a detour into Shitsville. We all deserve some compassion, especially compassion that comes from ourselves.

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heinzesight BRENT HEINZE

look up & look out

We can be so unaware at times.

Going about our daily business while rushing from one activity to the next has made most of us somewhat blind to our surroundings. For most of us, it isn’t about appreciating the beautiful new building being constructed or the great sculpture that was recently added in your favorite park. We can be more focused on replying to messages or looking at a digital map than looking around us. One of the most concerning aspects of our evolving society is that we may be missing out on some potentially wonderful interpersonal exchanges simply because we are not looking around. Some amazing people may simply pass us by because we are blissfully unaware. Think about how many possible connections with others are missed when we are not paying attention. In our culture, we spend an exorbitant amount of time looking at our computers and phones, even when we are socializing or walking down the street. We often aren’t looking at people and situations directly in front of us. We are focused in on the virtual world, not the real world. Living in such a technology-rich time with the ability to constantly be in contact with information and people, sometimes we forget that there are more enriching ways to interact with others. Changing focus from our phones or computers may actually benefit us more in particular moments. It’s not just that our cyber-based engagements hinder us from meeting people. So many of us struggle with meeting people for a variety of reasons. Most of us have a life full of tasks, interests, and challenges that occupy much of our time and mental capacity. Although engaging these is ultimately important in building our lives, it also can be a huge barrier in getting to know others. It often seems like we are incapable of getting what we want socially using 5 4 \\ A P R I L 1 9 , 2 0 1 7

the methods we most often use. It doesn’t matter if online chats seem to go nowhere or interactions in public places are difficult. Connecting with others can be rough. Not only do we have to face our difficulties with having free time, good self-esteem, and the finances to do what we want to do, but we also need to add in the variables that the other person experiences. There are times when we lose focus or get frustrated. It can feel amazing that any of us ever meet up to do anything. Think about what it will take to encourage us to start looking up from whatever occupies us so we can start looking out for more of those things that may thrill us. We all have a lot to do, but make time to potentially engage with a new person or opportunity. Some of us have gotten so used to feeling overwhelmed or distracted by using our phones or computers to reach out to others that this suggestion may seem unrealistic. It can be somewhat scary to return to an environment where we engage with others in real-time without the comfort of a “block” button or time to compose the perfect response to a message. There are many reasons why we don’t participate in activities with other people, but these may also be the primary cause of our feeling lonely or disengaged from others. Take the time to figure out what is stopping you from engaging with other people. Consider fears and insecurities about chatting with others. If you’re too busy to make time to spend with someone great, you may want to re-evaluate your priorities or schedule. Face-to-face interactions may be uncomfortable or take time, but you don’t have to continue to use technology as an intermediary. Get to know people. When you’re at the gym, scan around. There may be some eye candy or an old buddy you haven’t seen in awhile. Look up, look out, and woof at someone.

EXPIRES 04/30/2017