August 1, 2018 :: Aurora Pride

CO LO R A D O'S LG B TQ M AGA ZINE | F R E E

Kimora Blac • Jiggly Caliente • Tatianna

CONTENTS AUGUST 1, 2018 VOL42 NO8

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FOR ALL: AURORA EMBRACES DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION 14 YAAAS SIR: DENVER BAND RULES THE LOCAL SCENE AND SUPPORTS THE QUEER COMMUNITY 16 A KIKI WITH THE PETTY, PRETTY PRINCESS JIGGLY CALIENTE 21 JODY BOUFFARD: A ONEWOMEN WRECKING BALL 22 WAIT… WHAT? KIMORA BLAC TALKS PRIDE, DRAG RACE, AND FAILING TRIVIA 28

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THE TEA WITH TATI 33 THE LOCAL QUEENS OF AURORA PRIDE

SERVING THE LGBTQ 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 Editor ADDISON HERRON-WHEELER Associate Editor BRENT HEINZE Senior Columnist INTERNS: Arianna Balderamma, Susie Salcé, Sid Pasquino WRITERS: Denny Patterson ART art@outfrontmagazine.com DESIGN2PRO Graphic Designer COVER: Photo provided by Tatianna CONTRIBUTING ARTISTS Charles Broshous MARKETING + SALES marketing@outfrontmagazine.com BRENNAN GALLAGHER Marketing Executive QUINCEY ROISUM Marketing Executive National Advertising Rivendell Media 212-242-6863 | sales@rivendellmedia.com

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WHAT WE FEEL, FOR YOU TO READ

FROM THE EDITOR

THE IMPORTANCE OF SMALL TOWN PRIDE

AT THE END OF JUNE, I FLEW MORE THAN 1,000 MILES TO VISIT FAMILY IN MY HOMETOWN OF NEW CASTLE, INDIANA. NEW CASTLE IS A SMALL, OLD FACTORY TOWN THAT MOVES AT A PACE A BIT SLOWER THAN THE REST OF THE WORLD AROUND IT—BOTH PHYSICALLY AND SOCIALLY. Honestly, I dreaded being back in my hometown for a week with no queer outlet. But, luckily for me, New Castle was hosting its first ever Pride. The single-day, all-ages event was held inside a small country bar called The Roadhouse. Of course, I went and took my younger siblings.

The bar was packed with queer people. Two-thirds of the crowd were our queer youth. For them, in that small, backwards town, New Castle Pride was their first exposure to queer life. I watched as they gathered at the front of the stage with cell phones and dollars ready for the drag show. I heard them squeal in excitement whenever a queen hit the floor in a death drop; I had forgotten how those Indiana queens bring the choreo to every performance. I almost died when my 11-year-old

Ryan Howe

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sister, who decided to wear a cape, screamed into the sky, “I love drag queens!”

That Pride, as small as it was, filled me with the most pride I’ve felt in a long time.

I have grown accustomed to feelings that Denver’s PrideFest gives me. After four years, PrideFest still reenergizes my queer soul, but it is the smaller celebrations that embody the true meaning of Pride.

It’s been said time and time again, but for reiteration: Pride began as a protest. Angry queers who were tired of persecution took a stand and said, “Enough is enough.”

The young queers in these small or conservative cities that cover themselves in glitter, wrap flags around their necks, destroy the gender binary, and bravely stand in the face of adversity carry the same energies given off

by Sylvia Rivera and Marsha P. Johnson.

We here at OUT FRONT want to carry on that tradition at the second annual Aurora Pride. Come out, take a stand, and show these young Aurora queers what Pride is all about. I’ll see you there.

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FOR A L L

By Addison Herron-Wheeler

Aurora Embraces Diversity and Inclusion

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D

enver may be the Colorado city most known for culture and diversity, but its neighbor to the East, Aurora, boasts high numbers when it comes to its diverse and varied population.

Still, despite this fact, much of the focus on acceptance and cultural relevance is placed central to the Denver area. Denver hosts PrideFest, cultural festivals, and is home to LGBTQ organizations. Activists get up in arms about the gentrification in historic Denver neighborhoods that have long been home to people of color.

Not much attention is paid to fair and affordable housing in Aurora, however, or the vast population of immigrants, refugees, and minorities that call Aurora home.

For this reason, OUT FRONT decided to focus on Aurora and host an annual Pride event within its borders. The population of the city is often underserved when it comes to special events and programs that cater to Denver, but it turns out they have a pretty good handle on embracing diversity within their city and trying to make life better for all people, despite some setbacks and issues the city is still facing.

Here is what we found out about the City of Aurora, from population demographics and a chat with the mayor about diversity, to the programs in place for queer folks, immigrants, and people of color.

By the Numbers You can see the diversity in Aurora just by driving through the city, checking out the array of restaurants, places of worship, and people. But when you look at it on paper, it’s even more impressive.

According to "Who is Aurora" the city’s 2016 demographic report, the city of Aurora is 17.6 percent white, Hispanic, or Latino; 16 percent black or African American; and 5 percent Asian. In a state like Colorado with a high concentration of white residents, Aurora stands out as a diverse beacon.

The city also has a large immigrant population, with an especially large concentration of Ethiopian residents.

Twenty-one percent of residents speak

Spanish at home; that number is much higher than the 13.6 percent in the Denver metro area, and 10.3 percent of residents are disabled, which is also higher than the metro average.

These numbers show that Aurora has a varied population and is a place many folks of different ethnicities and backgrounds call home. However, it’s also clear from the published numbers that many of the people who live in Aurora are struggling economically.

Twelve percent of families live in poverty, and so do 16 percent of adult individuals and 23 percent of children.

While the most recent, available census data report contains a lot of information about the city, it highlights the existing diversity without commenting on it and still misses a lot of pertinent information.

It talks about languages spoken, races, genders, ages, and poverty levels, but it does not address how many folks are queer, in same-gender relationships, or identify as trans or nonbinary.

To get a clearer idea of the people and programs behind the numbers, we reached out to influential figures in Aurora to learn more about the city and how it treats its citizens.

Immigrant Integration Especially since the election of Trump, America is on edge about immigration.

Cities are taking a stand about the laws imposed within their borders, often claiming to be “sanctuary cities” that protect immigrants. Aurora does not claim that term, but instead calls itself a “welcoming city.”

“We comply with federal law and don’t break any federal laws, but the reality is that immigrants are members of our community, and if we were to adopt a new policy where local law enforcement wasn’t friendly to immigrants, we would have a situation where undocumented immigrants would no longer participate in reporting crimes and helping keep our community safe,” explained Aurora mayor Bob LeGare. “It’s very important for our community to feel safe and welcome regardless of their immigration status. We as a city do not have the ability to do federal law enforcement.”

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Affairs. “Since the launching of the immigrant integration plan, OIIA has made immense progress on the plan’s implementation, initiating innovative and nationally recognized programs to provide immigrants and refugees the tools they need to address linguistic and cultural barriers, promote small business, partner with law enforcement agencies, reach for opportunity, and learn about city resources.”

In addition to the support available and the lack of aggressive action against undocumented immigrants, the city tries to support the diverse immigrant community’s culture. They recently implemented a citywide festival called Global Fest, held every year to honor all the different cultures that mingle in the city. The festival gives immigrants the chance to share and celebrate their own personal histories and learn about other immigrants, and also teaches nativeborn residents about other cultures.

While all of this support is paramount for a healthy city, a safe space is also needed for people of color who, while they may be native born and assimilated into American culture, still face disadvantages based on their skin color.

People of Color and Low-Income Inclusion The idea behind this action is simple: if a large percent of the population is unwilling or unable to report crime, the city will be a lot more dangerous. This, coupled with a desire to do right by the city’s residents, drives the mayor and the police force to make sure immigration status isn’t asked about if a crime is reported.

“If you read the studies, cities with high immigrant populations have better paying jobs; there are lower violent crimes, and I think Aurora, with our highly diverse population, we are certainly benefitting from that,” said Allison Hiltz, MPP, council member atlarge. “I would like the city to take more policy stances that show that, but we are doing a lot.”

The city also has an office of International 1 2 \\ A U G U S T 1 , 2 0 1 8

and Immigrant Affairs, a department that seeks to make things better for immigrants who are undocumented or folks who legally moved to the U.S. but lack the resources to get ahead.

They help families get the support they need, including language classes for those looking to improve their English, professional development courses to help with landing jobs, and daycare for those with families and children.

“We are very proud that Aurora is the only city in Colorado and one of 10 cities in the U.S. with a comprehensive immigrant integration plan. The Office of International and Immigrant Affairs facilitates the successful integration of immigrants and refugees into Aurora’s civic, economic, and cultural life,” said Ricardo Gambetta, manager, Office of International and Immigrant

Aurora still has work to do in the realm of racial inclusivity and equality, but they are making strides towards embracing and supporting people of color in the workforce and all across the city and creating more opportunities for those who are lower income.

“We have programs that support all segments of our community,” said LaGare. “When it comes to housing, the Aurora City Council is going to be meeting and discussing in more depth affordable housing, attainable housing, workforce housing. That is an issue that has come up in the last three to four years, and it’s not unique to Aurora; its the entire metro area.”

This city is aware that many of their residents need resources to help with affordable housing or employment.

However, when it comes to specifically supporting people of color and their

minority status, some residents feel there are not enough resources in place to make them and others like them feel included.

“I don’t think that Aurora has many opportunities for people of color in the community,” admitted Reia Cheille, a black, trans woman who lives in Aurora and performs under the drag name Menage E’toi. “I think it is not anything personal, just honestly something that seems to happen across the state. Being African American, we are often looked at as trouble. And I feel like if someone were to do something different targeted towards us, there would be tripled amounts of law enforcement and many stipulations that other events not aimed at African Americans do not have to put up with.”

Cheille also mentioned that all the programs in Aurora targeting queer African American folks seem to focus on HIV or AIDS. In other words, while there is outreach for those who are lower-income or need medical help, there are not a lot of programs in place that specifically celebrate black folks and people of color.

LGBTQ Activism Like in many areas, there is not clear data regarding the numbers on queer folks in Aurora. Census data will delve into who is single and married, but most surveys don’t look at people in a samegender marriage or how many people do not identify with the gender they were assigned at birth.

For that reason, it’s hard to clearly quantify how much support there is in Aurora for LGBTQ people or how much is needed. But, there are a lot of programs in place to support queer individuals that have been positively received.

The UCHealth LGBTQ Mental Health Clinic, also known as the “Imagine Clinic,” provides services to LGBTQ individuals of all ages. Robert Davies, medical director and co-founder, helped start the clinic after realizing a need for queer youth to be able to take pride in themselves.

“We provide a safe and affirming

place for queer kids to explore their own relationship with their sexual and gender identity through individual and group therapy modalities,” he explained.

“It’s important to give LGBTQ youth, in particular, an early experience of acceptance and support in order to minimize internalized self-hate that so often develops in LGBTQ individuals who don’t find acceptance. We also work with their families to help them be able to provide support.”

The city also shows queer inclusion in a very unexpected area—the police force.

The police cruiser with the rainbow flag that is always seen around Denver PrideFest is from Aurora, and the police chief has made a point of being outspoken in support for trans folks.

“When the military wanted to ban trans people, the police chief tweeted, ‘If the military won’t take you, come here; we want you,’” explained Hiltz.

OUT FRONT’s own Aurora Pride is also evidence that the city makes strides when it comes to inclusion, and that the LGBTQ community wants an event to happen within city limits. While all metro area residents are welcome at Denver’s PrideFest, the event is Denvercentric, taking place right downtown.

Having a Pride event in Aurora allows folks who may not be able to make it downtown, or who may have missed the first Pride celebration because of work, another chance to join in the festivities.

Moving Forward Aurora clearly has a diverse population, made up of largely of immigrants, people of color, and folks who identify as queer.

There is also a large population of lowincome and impoverished individuals and families. This puts the city in a unique position to offer services and provide resources for residents in need.

While there are many great programs in place that promote diversity and initiatives to help people in need, more work could still be done in Aurora to truly make all residents feel like they belong.

With more groups and individuals stepping up in the face of national-level oppression and discrimination, Aurora has the chance to make a real impact on the people within its local community.

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By Addison Herron-Wheeler

Yaaas

Sir:

Denver Band Rules the Local Scene and Supports the Queer Community 1 4 \\ A U G U S T 1 , 2 0 1 8

D

enver’s local music scene kills it, from homegrown hip-hop and alternative rock to blistering metal and spacey dubstep. The local queer scene is also lit, but it’s rare that the two blend into one glorious, cultural melting pot. With local soft rockers Sir, however, that blending does happen, and it’s a wonderful thing.

Made up of “two lesbians and a straight boy super-supporter,” Sir try their best not only to make it in the local and national music world, but also to support the queer community. They are performing this year at Aurora Pride and making a general effort to get their name into more LGBTQ spaces. We spoke to the band about Pride; the local scene; and sexy, emotional rock-pop.

PLEASE GIVE ME ALL OF YOUR FULL NAMES, INSTRUMENTS, AND PRONOUNS. Sarah Angela–lead vocalist, synth, guitar, she/her Kim O’hara–electric guitar, she/her Luke Mehrens–drummer, he/him

WHAT IS THE MEANING BEHIND YOUR NAME? Sarah: We wanted something that wasn’t feminine or masculine and worked with the lead vocalist, and we thought it fits the feeling of our music. Also, my nickname has kind of always been Sir Angela because of how it sounds when you say my name fast.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR SOUND? Sarah: I would say that our sound is sexy, emotional rock-pop.

HOW DID YOU ALL GET TOGETHER AND START PLAYING MUSIC? Sarah: I’ve been harassing Kim for the last 10 years ever since I moved here, pushing her to be in my band, because it was just me doing music for quite some time, and finally she caved and realized how much she loved me. Luke was in a band called Della; they were one of my favorite bands when I moved here, and they had me open for them a few times, but their band dispersed. All of a sudden I was at a show with Kim, and he walked up and asked if I was looking for a drummer.

HOW DO YOU FEEL ABOUT THE LOCAL MUSIC SCENE? Kim: I think for me at least it’s a love/ hate thing, because I love our scene and everything. There is so much good music that comes out of Denver, but I think the hate side of it is not enough bands that show enough support of each other. We are lacking a really strong industry here.

Sarah: Clearly the music capital of the world is L.A. and Hollywood, and we’ve had to go there to record and get a lot of our guidance. There is like one music lawyer here and a couple booking agencies, but they have their hands full.

There is not much of an industry.

Luke: It’s growing; bands move here now to do music. Musically it’s awesome,

but industry-wise I think it could still grow for sure.

WHAT MADE YOU WANT TO PLAY AURORA PRIDE? Sarah: We got invited, and we were super stoked. We played Denver PrideFest for a total of five years, so when we got the call to do Aurora we were like, ‘Hell yeah!’

Luke: It was an interesting thing to support, something we believe in. We jump any time we get to do a show like that.

Sarah: Kim and I are both lesbians, and Luke is our straight boy super supporter.

WHAT TIES DO YOU HAVE TO THE QUEER COMMUNITY IN THE DENVER METRO AREA, AND HOW DO YOU ADVOCATE FOR IT? Sarah: We’ve been trying to advocate more; we want to be more involved. It seems seems as if as we’ve been a growing community and things have been more nationally accepted. The theme started to die off and of course, with our new Trumpian administration, people are starting to stand up and make changes.

WHAT SPECIFIC TIES DO YOU HAVE TO AURORA? Kim: I don’t think we have specific ties, but I lived in Aurora for a few years. We are excited to meet new people, get in font of new people.

WHAT ARE YOU LOOKING FORWARD TO ABOUT AURORA PRIDE? Sarah: I didn’t even know Aurora had its own Pride until now, and we are stoked to be able to add to that community.

I don’t view Aurora as a particularly gay-friendly community, and I’m excited to be able to promote equality. We are gonna rock out as hard as we can and expand our fan base!

IS THERE ANYTHING SPECIAL YOU HAVE IN THE WORKS THAT YOU WANT TO ANNOUNCE? Sarah: We have a really big show with some really awesome bands on August 25 at Globe Hall, and we have a show on October 5 at Bar Fly. Beyond that, our next big tour is gonna be West Coast, and we are hoping to be back in the studio by the spring.

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By Denny Patterson

A Kiki with the Petty, Pretty Princess Jiggly Caliente F

rom her feud with LaShauwn Beyond (“This isn’t RuPaul’s best friend race!”) to her “very St. Tropez” runway looks, Jiggly Caliente was a hot mess on her season of RuPaul’s Drag Race. However, that did not stop the fans from instantly falling in love with her.

Now a seasoned queen, she's toured the world, released her debut album, T.H.O.T. Process, and was featured on FX’s latest hit show, Pose. Jiggly has so much more to give, and she intends to show the world just what she can do. There is no stopping this plus-size barbie.

Jiggly will make an appearance alongside Tatianna and Kimora Blac at this year’s Aurora Pride on Saturday, August 4. We had the pleasure of chatting with Jiggly about her career and upcoming visit.

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Welcome back to Colorado!

May I call you Jiggly?

Yes, ma’am!

We are excited to have you at Aurora Pride. What does Pride, and performing at Pride, mean to you?

For me, Pride is like the one time of the year where we all put our differences aside. When girls are throwing shade or being mean, it’s all in good fun. There’s a different vibe when it comes to Pride.

We put our fangs aside, and we are all just a little friendlier. That’s the part of Pride I like the most.

Performing at Pride means a lot to me because, as a trans woman, I feel like I can represent the trans community as a good performer.

What can audiences expect from a Jiggly performance?

Well, definitely not the baked potato! I have a stylist now, so I have cute clothes, and I like to keep my performances fun, bubbly, and somewhat slutty.

Although, I’m not sure if I can do it at Pride festival, depending what time the show is. If it’s nighttime, then I can probably get away with being slutty.

Usually just high energy and fun and always in a cute costume, and my makeup always on point! That is the one thing Drag Race can’t take away from me! My costumes might have been a mess, but my makeup is going to be on point, goddamnit!

You will be sharing the stage with Tatianna and Kimora Blac. Are you close with these girls?

I’m not that close with Kimora, but we vibe well and are getting to know each other more. Tatianna and I have been friends for a while. I am excited to perform with them, but at the same time, I am nervous for myself because those two are party animals! I’m not as much of a party animal as they are.

Like, they can hang and don’t slow down. Tatianna can drink like a dude.

I’m like, ‘I can’t with you.’ Did you see her on season two? She was slinging

them back. I told her, ‘Tatianna, you drink like a dude,' and she’s like, ‘Yup.’ It’s going to be a good time.

Who are some of your other favorite Drag Race queens to perform with, and why?

Ginger is definitely my favorite one to perform with. Ginger is always down to do something stupid and crazy and she usually gives me the idea to do something stupid and crazy. I’m always like, ‘Eh, okay, I’ll do it.’ Ginger is my all-time favorite to be on stage with.

As for backstage, all the girls are pretty fun, but Willam is the most fun backstage. I haven’t gotten to perform with her, but Kim Chi is also amazing.

You have been busy since season four. Tell us what you’ve been up to.

I recently released an album, and I was cast on Pose as Veronica. I am super excited about it. I have been doing quite a bit, not just with drag, but outside as well. I will say, Drag Race gave me a huge platform and a launching pad for my career, and I will always be grateful for that.

Tell us about your new album, T.H.O.T. Process! How has it been received?

I am surprised it’s been as big of a success as it has been!

For me, when I wrote the album, there were like certain things I needed to say, and I was going to say it no matter what.

Like the slut shaming. Even in our own community, it’s so gross. Like when you are a top and f*ck all these little bottoms, it’s all cool, but if you’re the bottom and you sleep around, you’re a ho. You know what I mean? It’s the same thing with like men and women. Guys can bang all these girls, and he’ll get a pat on the back, and, ‘Good job, bro,’ kind of thing, but if a girl talks about how many men she’s been with, she’s a slut. So, I wanted to do that and be like, it’s a fair game in the hookup world. If you are going to have fun, it should be okay, as long as you keep it healthy. Why should we demonize it and make it something else?

As long as you are protected and doing it right, you are all good.

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So, yeah, “FckBoi” was such a thing for me. Then “I Don’t Give a F*ck” is like my anthem to all my haters. Like, you can talk all the shit you want, boo. I’m making money and I’m doing me. I don’t care. I don’t give a sh*t.

What were your thoughts on the most recent season? Were you Team Aquaria?

Oh, I was definitely team Aquaria! She’s a queen from New York; she’s Sharon’s daughter, so immediately I was like, yes, I am team Aquaria.

I was also team all-the-black-girls-who-were-on-the-show this year [laughs]. Mainly Monet; I love Monet because she is so fun, and I was definitely rooting for her. Asia O’Hara is amazing, despite the butterfly situation. She is a seasoned performer and is just so amazing. The Vixen is also an amazing performer, and Monique was literally the mouth of season 10. Like, you are the coolest person. I want to be your friend.

There’s been some backlash about the way Drag Race portrays minorities within the queer community and how inclusive the show is. What is your take on this?

For me, I never thought, or think, that Drag Race is the one to blame for that. Drag Race has always been inclusive, and I feel like it always tries to include queer people of color.

Like, look at the Empire spoof challenge on season 8.

I think it’s because of the political climate we are in; the issues are becoming more apparent, and it’s the Drag Race fans. It’s racist people who are within the fandom. The fans segregate the girls; the girls don’t segregate each other. The black girls don’t only hang out with the black girls. We don’t separate ourselves. It’s the fandom that pits us against each other; then it’s made into a big deal because of all these little groups that chime in.

It’s unfair that it’s happening, but it’s because of the political climate. It’s so much more obvious now. This has been going on for years; it just hasn’t been brought up. All the girls talk about it because we see it. We see certain queens get away with one thing, but if a queen of color does the same thing, it’s an issue. Look at when Manila did that spoof on an Asian news reporter. Like, Manila is Asian. She’s not trying to disrespect anyone or be racist. It’s a spoof. A lot of the racist stuff has been going on with the fandom. It’s just being brought out now because it’s much more obvious.

Then you also have queens like me, the Vixen, and Jasmine Masters who don’t shut up about it, because we got to let you all know what’s going on!

Do you feel that you were accurately portrayed on your season?

Hell, no! [Laughs]. I mean, granted, I was kind of okay in some ways I was portrayed because there were a few things I said that were chopped out in editing, and I am glad that happened. I get it—we all play a role, and this was also at a time in my life where I was a bit clouded. It didn’t help 1 8 \\ A U G U S T 1 , 2 0 1 8

when I was trying to focus on a challenge and somebody all of a sudden would walk up by me and be like, ‘Jiggly, talk about your mom.’ Like, what the f *ck? I’m in the middle of trying to make a f *cking boat! You all got to stop asking me about my mom and let me focus.

But yes, I don’t honestly think I was portrayed accurately in some parts. The show also made me realize some things about myself. I didn’t know I was funny until I saw the show.

I’m kind of funny, and that’s cool. There were some positive and negative things about how I was portrayed.

Phi Phi always likes to remind me that she was portrayed as the asshole, yet I’m standing next to her and I’m agreeing with what she says, but it’s been edited out. I don’t feel that bad being portrayed as a dummy; I’m cool with that. I always joke around and tell Phi Phi, ‘You can fall in love with a hot mess, but you can’t fall in love with a bitch.’

What can we expect from Jiggly in the future?

I am hoping to do more music and more music videos. I definitely have a third video coming out. Now that Pose has been renewed for a second season, hopefully there will be more Veronica.

I want to do it all. I want to do acting, do more TV work, I want to write my own one-woman show, and Bianca has offered to help me write. I’m just kind of waiting until she has the time to help. I had a conversation with her about my past, and Bianca was like, ‘Girl, there’s a goldmine here.

Please, I’ll help you write this. It’s funny.’ I didn’t know being a hooker was funny, but okay!

So, there’s a lot more to expect from me in the future.

Obviously most acting and more singing and hopefully another album. Definitely this one-woman show. I just want it all. I want to be like J.Lo. I want to do everything under the sun I can possibly get my hands on as an entertainer.

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JODY BOUFFARD: A One-Women Wrecking Ball

By Ryan Howe

S

he is known for many things around Denver. The woman who acts as gatekeeper to the rainbow palace called Blush & Blu, Jody Bouffard is the only lesbian in Denver who owns a queer bar. In addition to providing a safe space for queers of all kinds, she is also a DJ. Bouffard keeps the vibe alive both at her own club and elsewhere by spinning tunes and supporting other LGBTQ DJs on their musical journeys. She opened a club so that the Denver community, specifically the woman-identifying queer community, which is underserved, would have a spot to dance, make new friends, and grab delicious drinks.

When Bouffard set her eyes on Colfax as the home for Blush & Blu, she purchased a small hallway of a bar in cash, noting that the best way to do business is to “owe nobody anything.” She first opened it as a coffee shop in 2005, and was forced to wait nine months to get her liquor license.

“I’ll never forget that day because it was 4/20,” she said. “On April 20, 2006, I opened up the smallest little gay bar on Colfax and called it Blush.”

When it opened, the pink-painted bar was not the only “lesbian bar” in town and faced competition. But it never felt that way to Bouffard. It was during a time before social media and smartphones took over the world of dating and interaction and before Denver was overwhelmingly supportive of queer people. A new bar just meant there was one more place for LGBTQ people to gather.

Now, she’s sitting on the last remaining “lesbian bar” in Denver.

“It’s a lot different now than before,” she said. “The queer bars don’t look after one another anymore because we are all competition. I think it’s sad, but it’s the reality we live in now.”

It didn’t take long for Bouffard to expand her bar, buying the building next to her once the Rent-A-Center went out of business. She used half of the huge space to expand Colfax’s smallest bar to something a bit more spacious and welcoming; the other half she offered to her friends from Portland so they could expand their doughnut shop, Voodoo Donuts, to the Mile High City.

She painted her expansion blue and renamed the bar Blush & Blu to let the city know it wasn’t just a spot for lesbians but for queers of all sorts. But once labeled something, it’s hard to shake that reputation. Today, if you ask anyone about Blush & Blu, it’s still considered “Denver’s Lesbian Bar.” “We love all of our customers, and, especially now, it’s important for everyone to feel welcome,” Bouffard said. “We just want to be known as a queer bar that will accept you no matter what… unless you are an asshole.”

“A queer bar is more than just a bar,” Bouffard continued. “It’s a place where anyone can come and dress however they want. They can hold hands with whomever they want. They can sing and dance however they want. They can come and just be themselves. These people will always have a place at Blush & Blu.” Look for Jody on the decks at Aurora Pride, or go see her any night behind the bar of her beloved home base.

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by Denny Patterson

WAIT...

WHAT? KIMORA BLAC TALKS PRIDE, DRAG RACE, AND FAILING TRIVIA

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uPaul’s Drag Race season nine queen Kimora Blac may have left the competition early, but there is no way in hell we can forget about her.

No fading into obscurity here.

This loveable, gorgeous, and often ditzy queen cannot be stopped. With her own show on World of Wonder called Wait, What?, several tours, numerous meet and greets, and a fanbase that continues to rapidly grow, Kimora is just getting started.

She will headline Aurora Pride on Saturday, August 4, alongside other Drag Race favorites Tatianna and Jiggly Caliente. We had the pleasure of chatting with Kimora about Aurora Pride and her future plans.

Welcome back to Colorado! We’re excited to have you here for Aurora Pride. What makes performing at Pride so important to you?

It’s like the birthday for gays, to be honest.

It’s like the perfect time to just let go and come out and celebrate with your family, friends, exes, whoever, to celebrate the culture of being homo and being happy. The best thing about it is, it’s not just about being homo, but it’s about inviting the heterosexuals and straights in and educating them on what it’s like to be happy, gay, and fun.

What does Pride personally mean to you?

Pride to me means celebration. It means to celebrate who you are and not be ashamed, and finding out your story and what you’re going to do next.

Pride happens every single year at the same time, and it’s all about just remembering where you are and where you come from and what you do and how you live and how you see life. It’s just like an amazing birthday and one I look forward to every year. And to see drag queens, hello!

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What can audiences generally expect from a Kimora Blac performance?

What were your thoughts on the most recent season?

Were you Team Aquaria?

I am very fond of sexual songs, like I love to make people feel like super, super hot in their chair. I’m like a sex vixen, so all my songs are usually open-minded and have fun beats.

Always seductive costumes.

Oh my God, I was so happy with the top four. This was honestly the first time I could not choose one. I was happy with all of them. I feel like Kameron is the best at lip syncing, and Asia is tenured. She knows what she is doing. Aquaria just looks absolutely stunning, and Eureka is so humble. It was like, who do I choose?

Blac is my last name for a reason, so black is my signature color. I’m all about latex, bondage, and things like that. I love making people feel the song I’m doing. I’m not a sublime girl, not really into the splits; there’s a bunch of girls who can do them. I’m just very seductive, very hypnotizing. Like, ‘Oh my God, is that really a woman or a man?’

You’ll be sharing the stage at Aurora Pride with Tatianna and Jiggly; are you close with these girls?

I am so excited! Tati, Jiggly, and I, first of all, that’s three different personalities for sure.

Jiggly, she’s fun. That girl has a mouth on her, and I love doing shows with her. She’s a fun one, and I hope she sings. I like the way she does stuff from her album.

Who are some of your other favorite Drag Race queens to perform with and why?

I am obsessed with Carmen Carrera, Raja, Violet Chachki, so many.

It is insane to see how much drag has grown and how different drag is now. When I started doing drag, I was educated that it was about ruffles, big hair, and glitter. Now, drag has gone from that to walking the Vogue runway.

So, it’s insane to see how it has evolved throughout the years. It’s hard to have one favorite to be honest, but if I must pick one, then it’s me [laughs].

How are you keeping your name on everyone’s lips?

I’m just staying current, you know? That’s a good question. I’m staying super current and not rushing things.

A lot of people ask me if I regret going home second, or do I regret not being on All Stars.

Honestly, I’m not in a rush. I go by the book, and I feel like my drag is not on a timeline. A lot of girls try do a lot of things all at once, and I feel like your moment will come naturally if you truly love what you do. So, you have to stay super current. Fresh new photos, fresh new looks, lip syncs, costumes. Keep them on their toes.

Do you believe you received the villain edit on your season?

I don’t think so. I feel like season nine didn’t really have one. I feel like we were all lovey.

Honestly, if I had to pick one out of the four it would be Aquaria because I like to see a young girl like that go far, and I hope she takes it on to the next level. We have seen what she can do, so let’s see if she can continue it. I can totally see her owning her own fashion line.

Tell us what it’s like filming your WOW show Wait, What?

It is hilarious.

Oh my God. So producers contacted me saying that they wanted to do a show with me. They wanted to know what I thought about doing a show where I teach people. I’m confused, like where is this going? Me teaching, I don’t think people would understand, and they said it would be called Wait, What? It’s more about them asking me questions, and I’d be with a certain queen and we answer. I’m like, ‘Oh, that’s perfect.

I would totally fail everything.’

So, it’s been amazing. I wish people would see the behind-the-scenes, because sometimes the producers don’t even know what they’re saying. They don’t even know the answer to the questions, and that’s the most hilarious thing about it.

It’s so funny. Honestly, my goal is for people to know that it’s okay if they don’t know something.

Not everyone is a genius. Some fans are like, ‘Oh my God, I didn’t know there were that many planets or Pluto wasn’t a planet.’ Well, there you go.

Even though you were on Drag Race for only three episodes, the show has changed your life for the better?

Yes. It’s interesting because I’ve been doing drag before Drag Race, but the show skyrocketed my career. Now, I feel like I’m back to the norm, but busier, if that makes any sense. I am completely grateful for it. I never thought I would be able to see this many people and cities and things like that. So, I encourage anyone who wants to try out for Drag Race to do it. Put it on your resume. If you love drag, go for it. If you hate it, then don’t do it [laughs].

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about the way Drag Race portrays minorities within the queer community. How do you feel about this?

Here’s the thing. Not everyone is going to be satisfied, and that’s how I look at it. Nowadays, with the presidency and many other horrible issues, no one is going to be satisfied, and I think people just kind of need to open their eyes a little bit more. Focus on things that should be focused on.

I think RuPaul’s Drag Race has gone in a great direction in teaching kids that there is drag and taking queer culture to television. No one has done that before, and this is something we should be celebrating. Now that we have it, what’s the problem? That’s how I see it. Keep the anger focused on Trump.

What are some upcoming projects we should be on the lookout for? What’s the next big thing for Kimora Blac?

Well, obviously look out if I’m on All Stars [laughs]. I have been talking about opening my own management team where I scope out local talent and put them to work and show them what it feels like to be not like on the show, but feel like an actual performer where you live out of luggage and travel world-to-world. I have been wanting to do this. I feel like there is so much local talent that people don’t see, and I would love to showcase a lot of them. I think the world needs to see these stunning and amazing individuals.

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atianna became an instant fan favorite the moment she stepped into the Werk Room on RuPaul’s Drag Race season two. With a pretty face, charming personality, and quick tongue, we knew she was going to go far. However, with more seasons airing each year, Tatianna’s name started to fade into the shadows.

That all changed once it was announced that she would be competing in the second season of All Stars.

The new and improved Tatianna was here to slay. As a Drag Race girl, she's toured the world and recently released her first full length album, T1.

She will tear up the mainstage alongside Kimora Blac and Jiggly Caliente at this year’s Aurora Pride on Saturday, August 4. We had the pleasure of chatting with Tati before she took the stage.

By Denny Patterson

T he

A E Twith I T TA

THERE HAS BEEN A RESURGENCE IN TATIANNA FANS SINCE ALL STARS. HOW HAS IT BEEN? The resurgence has been awesome. It’s cool that I was given the opportunity to be on All Stars and kind of reintroduce myself.

There are a lot of new viewers, and there’s a big difference in viewership and the people who follow the show from 2010 when I was on season 2 to All Stars in 2016. I was a lot younger, and the fact that the show is on VH1 now is super cool.

It’s been great. It’s given me the opportunity to travel and do all the things I always wanted to do, so I am very pleased and grateful.

YOU’VE BEEN HITTING PRIDE FESTIVALS ALL SEASON. WHAT MAKES PERFORMING AT PRIDE SO IMPORTANT TO YOU? Performing at Pride is just so awesome. To be a part of it with everyone, every city I have performed in, you get that energy back. There is such a feeling of togetherness and family.

Like, our tribe is all coming together to be part of this big experience. That’s my favorite part of Pride.

WHAT DOES PRIDE PERSONALLY MEAN TO YOU? Pride means to me, no matter what you are, gay, straight, trans, whatever, all of us are coming together and celebrating who we are and that we can be who we are.

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WHAT CAN AUDIENCES GENERALLY EXPECT FROM A TATIANNA PERFORMANCE? I like to dance a little bit, and I like to keep things energetic. I like to make things sexy and just have a fun time and a fun experience. I like to make sure I entertain the crowd, and all of those good things.

A COUPLE MONTHS AGO, YOU RELEASED YOUR FIRST FULL LENGTH ALBUM, T1. WILL YOU BE PERFORMING ANY SONGS FROM THE ALBUM? I have not decided yet. Typically, I choose my setlist a few days before I get to wherever I’m going, but probably. We shall see!

HOW HAS YOUR ALBUM BEEN RECEIVED BY THE PUBLIC? I have heard nothing but positive things, which is weird [laughs].

Everybody on the internet has opinions, and they don’t always coincide with your opinion, so I have not heard anything negative, which is lovely. It’s been well received, and I am very excited and grateful for that.

DO YOU PLAN TO RELEASE MORE MUSIC, VIDEOS, ETC.?

Yes, I definitely plan to release more music videos. I want to promote this album. Back in the day, someone would have an album and they would like release four to five videos. Now, it’s like they release two to three videos, and by the next year, a whole new album is out. I worked on this album with my producers for a full year, so I want to really give it the time it deserves and let everyone hear it. There will definitely be more to come.

YOU’LL BE SHARING THE STAGE AT AURORA PRIDE WITH KIMORA BLAC AND JIGGLY; ARE YOU CLOSE WITH THESE GIRLS? I love both of them. They are so much fun. I got to know Kimora while we were in Australia together and that was super fun, and I’ve known Jiggly for years.

WHO ARE SOME OF YOUR OTHER FAVORITE DRAG RACE QUEENS TO PERFORM WITH AND WHY? I love anytime I get to work with Roxxxy Andrews. We are besties, and we just get each other so much. Sometimes, we are across the room, and she’ll know exactly what I’m thinking, and I’ll know exactly what she’s thinking. Anytime I get to work with her is good. I also love performing with Adore, and Katya because she’s batshit crazy and very entertaining.

Those are the ones off the top of my head.

NOW, BE HONEST, HAVE THERE BEEN ANY UPDATES ON YOUR FEUD WITH TYRA? Oh, no! It’s been radio silence, at least on my part. I haven’t spoken about her except for when I’m asked in interviews.

Nothing disrespectful or insulting, I’m just being honest about what happened and transpired. But yeah, no, we are equally blocked on every surface of the internet possible. So, if it’s continuing, then we are basically yelling insults into the air and neither of us are going to see or hear them. So, I’m good [laughs].

HOW WOULD YOU SAY DRAG RACE CHANGED YOUR LIFE? Well, it changed everything. I have now been a Drag Race girl for eight years, going on nine. All of my 20s were me being a Drag Race girl. It gave me a career; that’s for sure!

Before I did Drag Race, I wasn’t really a drag queen per se. I just performed. I did drag on stage two or three times, then I got on season 2, so that’s when it clicked that this is about to be a career. This is about to be something, and it really did.

I was doing hair and makeup before all of that, so my career path took a hard, left turn. Drag Race also changed the outlook I had on myself. It made me to get to know myself a little bit better. When you watch yourself back on television, you see things you enjoy, and you see things you don’t. Also, being in this business, you meet so many different people from so many different walks of life, so it kind of opened me up and made me a lot more comfortable with who I am as a person and how I carry myself. Once you’re on television dressed as a lady, it’s like you’re not really holding anything back anymore!

WHAT WERE YOUR THOUGHTS ON THE MOST RECENT SEASON? WERE YOU TEAM AQUARIA? I was very pleased with the top four, and I was super happy for Aquaria. It was a good win for her. I also really liked how Eureka grew as a person; I enjoyed watching her story and evolution. Asia is such an awesome person inside and out. I haven’t met her

yet, but watching her on television, I can see that she’s a cool, good-hearted person. I was also team Asia. Kameron is such a sweetie, and I completely understood her. Kameron is like, 'I'm not very talkative. When I need to speak, I will,' ‘cause that’s very much, kind of like me.

Maybe not so much in interviews, because I get comfortable doing interviews oddly enough, but in a group full of outspoken and loud queens, I am someone who will take a step back and just watch. I am not one that will jump into the mix, so I completely understood Kameron’s disposition. I liked watching her a lot, too. She’s super gorgeous, and I loved what she wore on the runway.

THERE HAS BEEN SOME BACKLASH ABOUT THE WAY DRAG RACE PORTRAYS MINORITIES WITHIN THE QUEER COMMUNITY. HOW DO YOU FEEL ABOUT THIS? I understand people’s feelings, and I only hope in the future the show owns up to those emotions. As someone of color, I see that side and assume that recognition is coming.

IF GIVEN THE OPPORTUNITY, WOULD YOU COMPETE FOR A THIRD TIME? Oh! Someone just asked me this on Twitter today. I don’t know. I am someone who comes from a place of 'yes.' Like any opportunity is a good opportunity, but I had such a great time on All Stars, even though I was only there for four episodes. It was a great time for me personally, and I don’t know if I want to risk changing that.

When you go into a season, there’s always a possibility of going home first, and obviously that would be hella shitty or getting into some big blow-up altercation which is a polarizing thing for audiences. Some people end up hating you who used to like you. You know what I mean? I had such a great time and didn’t have any issues with anyone, so I don’t know if I want to risk selling that lovely situation.

Also, I don’t know if I have the nerves anymore! It’s so stressful being on the show, and I’ve done it twice and survived, but it’s so difficult, and I don’t know if I want to do that all over again.

Maybe, who knows. If they want to hit me up, I’ll think about it!

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Welcome!

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The Sir Band

Mile High Freedom Band

Punk Rock Burlesque

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Blondetourage

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CHEER Colorado Pop Ups

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Drag Show w/ Jiggly Caliente, Kimora Blac, & Tatianna

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DJ Jody Bouffard

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Drag Show w/ Jiggly Caliente, Kimora Blac, & Tatianna

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Goodbye!

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The Local Queens The Local Queens The Local Queens The Local Queens of Aurora Pride of Aurora Pride of Aurora Pride of Aurora Pride Bella C Le Cher Glam Who is Bella Ce Le Cher Glam?

yourself 100 percent and accept yourself. Seeing your flaws as not weakness, but an opportunity for growth. I also believe pride stems from braveness, courage, and a willingness to learn.

Pride is how we feel when we are no longer ashamed of who and what we are. We are all amazing and should embrace and love that.

That is what Pride is to me.

Bella Couture-Le Cher Glam is an eccentric nut job. I am a little shy until someone gets to know me, and then people get to see my humor and just how silly I can be. I was raised to be kind and to always help people when I can, and that bleeds into Bella.

Your makeup and fashions are gorgeous!

I try to be as humble as I can Where do you draw inspiration? be, because you can learn Thank you! My inspiration comes from people from anyone and everyone, who directly impacted me on a personal level, as well as teach everyone and like my grandmother Donaciana Gonzales who anyone. I absolutely love has great taste, my drag mother Vivian LeCher performing, and once I am where I get my love for sparkles, Robby Turner on stage, I feel like I shed (my GLAM BABIES mom), and fashion gods my skin. I become fearless, like Alexander McQueen, Lady Gaga, Jennifer and who I want to be Lopez, and Britney Spears. I feel as though comes out. I love pushing Bella is a fusion of myself as well as these boundaries and trying wonderful artists. different things, because being in a box is boring.

Top three lip sync songs of all time?

What does Pride mean to you?

Pride means a lot. In order to have Pride, you need to first be very accepting of yourself. It’s hard. It’s really hard, but love

This is so hard. There are so many amazing songs that, if done well, are amazing! Britney Spears’ “Work Bitch” makes the list because it’s pop, electric bop. Almost anything from Jennifer Lopez, because I feel her music and it makes me super confident on stage. But, if I had to pick a song, it would be “Booty.”

And, Lady Gaga’s “Born This Way,” because its

powerful message touches my soul!

Any advice for our readers?

For anyone wanting to try drag or anything else—do it! Stay humble, stay true to yourself, learn all that there is there is to learn. Nothing comes easily.

You must be willing to work hard, no matter who you are or think you are, always treat people with respect and kindness, and love. Live in each moment.

Take nothing for granted. Push yourself, and try new things. Life is all about the experience! If you want a hug, come get one.

If you have questions, ask. If I can help, I will.

Thank you for all for your continued love and support. It means more to me than you’ll ever know. Love you!

Paige Turner

What does Pride mean to you?

Pride, to me, is taking a moment to reflect on who you are, who you’ve become, and realizing where you used to be. It’s a chance to be yourself without fear or reservations. It’s a chance to just have fun and not be scared to be you.

You’re new in town! Tell us who Paige Turner is.

Paige Turner is who I turn into when I’m standing around singing along to any diva or female musical idol I admired growing up.

She popped out when I would be walking around with a hairbrush singing to artists like Diana Ross or Tina Turner—and never went away. Paige Turner is that side of me that has more self-esteem and more confidence.

If you could meet any pop diva, who would that be and why?

If I could meet any pop diva... that’s a really hard question! I would like to meet someone like Pat Benatar or Joan Jett or Patsy Cline, but, I would love to meet Cher. I could watch her every day. I own like three concerts of hers on DVD, and I’ve seen her in concert. She always can make me smile.

What can we expect from your performance?

What you can expect from Paige Turner is a performance, darling. I treat drag like I do theater, and I love to put on a show. There’s always a reason for what I wear or what I do because somehow it has something to do with the artist I’m lip syncing to.

How do you keep the audience “turning the Paige” on Miss Turner?

I keep the audience engaged by mixing up everything I do. Everything I do is a little different than other things I’ve done. I perform songs that are country, songs that are pop, songs from the 80s. I do a little bit of everything.

Bambi Ballgag Who is Bambi Ballgag?

Bambi Ballgag is the cutest sadomasochist you’ll ever meet. She’s either an adorable, pastel doll or Satan incarnate, depending on the day you see her.

Your looks are out of this world! How do you keep your drag so fresh and unique?

I look for inspiration everywhere. I’ve always loved Japanese pop culture, so a lot of my drag is taken from there.

I love the perversion of traditionally ‘cute’ and ‘feminine’ things, and I try to create a character that looks cute but is sadistic, or looks menacingly scary but still sexy.

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You’re part of the growing “hyper queen” scene; why is it important for drag to be open to everyone?

As someone who doesn’t identify with any particular gender, as well as someone who labels themselves as a lesbian, being active in my community has always been important to me. Drag is such a beautiful, fluid art form that offers not only a creative outlet, but a community as well. Drag is always changing; it’s a projection of the queer experience, and everyone’s experience is different. To only have one type of person do drag limits the queer experience and limits what we can learn from others within our own community who may still be very different than us.

If you could pick the brain of any Drag Race queen for a day, who would that be and why?

I would either say Aja or Katya. Katya has been such a huge inspiration for me, as she’s so socially active and smart. Her being vocal about her mental illness has helped me with my own illnesses, and I admire her strength

so much. She’s also a Taurus, like me, so I would just love to sit down and talk to her for hours.

What does Pride mean to you?

To me, Pride is a celebration of hope.

As queer folk, I feel like we often feel alone in our everyday lives and struggle with finding acceptance. At Pride you’re surrounded by people that are like you and have similar experiences as you.

Evelyn Evermore For those who don’t know, who is Evelyn?

For those not in the know, Evelyn is like that kooky art teacher you had in third grade. She doesn’t always stick to lesson plan, but you learn a lot anyway—usually about things that aren’t relevant to the class or to anything anyone was just saying.

You’re pretty successful around here. How do you stay relevant?

Thanks! Doing drag is all about networking and creating opportunities for yourself. To stay relevant, you have to stay in the scene, which means going to bars and introducing yourself to strangers every night of the week, even if you’re not in drag. To be successful in drag is to be less successful in your personal life, but the payoff is really worth it.

Any social media tips for the children?

Post all the time. Social media websites all have different algorithms based on how you interact with their software, that when used right will boost your post to the top of everyone’s feed. For example,

in Instagram stories, using the new features they add will push them to the front of the Instagram stories feed, which then boosts your following.

And always engage your audience. Oh, and also plug yourself whenever possible! Follow me on Instagram @evelynevermoore, because I’m a living Vine compilation.

If you had to perform to only one artist for the rest of time, who would that be and why?

Oh geez, that’s a tough one because I’m so eclectic with my performances. I’d probably say Lady Gaga, because at least I’ll always be relevant, and there’s so many ways you can interpret her music.

There’s always some new way to perform a Gaga song.

What does Pride mean to you?

Pride is about standing up for who you are, to yourself, to your family, and to your community.

Pride started as a protest, and I think now is the time to return to that kind of mentality. Let’s party, but let’s also fight for what’s right, while we still have our voices.

Madison Absaroka Who is Madison? Is that your mother’s last name, or where did that come from?

You know, it took quite a while for Madison to show up in my life, even though she’s always been with me. My last name, Absaroka, actually comes from the name of a mountain range in Yellowstone. It represents my love of nature and my spiritual connection to that beautiful part of this country. My name really is a representation of what I try to push myself to be in drag: strong, beautiful, graceful, spiritual, unique, and, of course, fabulous!

What does Pride mean to you?

Pride is mixture of having the courage

to say out loud and be exactly who you are, as well as having humility for what has happened in your life to bring you to where you are today. It’s about having such a deep appreciation for yourself that you feel the obligation to share your completely unique and beautiful self with the rest of the world.

Quite simply, it just means you live your truth, all day every day.

What can we expect from your performance?

You can expect me to turn the party up a couple of notches! You can also expect me to share a lot of love; love is pretty much always the theme of the songs I do. I’m a musical theatre queen at heart, so you can also expect a bit of campiness and a flawless lip sync.

Where do you draw inspiration from?

My number one muse is Kylie Minogue. She is easily my biggest drag inspiration and inspiration for my life in general. I’m also inspired by all the queens I follow on social media and of course all my sisters here in the

Mile High City. Denver knows how to slay the haus down boots!

Do you have any hidden talents?

It’s usually hidden because I tend to lip sync in drag, but I’m a professionally trained singer. I’m also an ordained minister and am getting really good at officiating weddings.

Hint, hint: contact me if you want a drag queen to perform your wedding ceremony!

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Vandy J Sexton Who is Vandy?

Vandy J Sexton is a Disney princess and the fishiest Asian of all Colorado.

Your mug is BEAT! What is your best makeup advice?

I love a fierce eyebrow and am very critical on my contour. A cute nose and some cheek bones always make me feel snatched. Your face is your canvas; create what you’ve dreamed of inside of your head, and paint that mug.

Practice, practice, practice.

What can we expect from your performance?

You can expect to see a woman on

stage. I will leave you touched, moved, and inspired!

What does Pride mean to you?

What does pride mean to me? Freedom, self expression, happiness, peace, love is love is love. We get to celebrate all of the diversity in our community.

How important is it to support our local queens?

It is very important to support your local queens. We are the hardest-working people in the industry. We are always the go-to for doing fundraisers and helping out our LGBTQ community any way we can. Drag is not cheap, but we love what we do because queer people need to be seen and heard.

Anita Johnson-LeCher Hello Miss Gay Colorado USofA 2017! For those who don’t know, who is Anita Johnson?

Anita Johnson-LeCher is a a pageant queen that loves to turn looks—and faces. She enjoys the classic 50s style but with a modern twist. She is funny yet gorgeous. Anita is all about giving back to the community.

That’s a heavy crown you’ve been wearing. What has been the best part of your reign?

Honestly the best part of my entire reign has been meeting the people I have. I was performing in Pueblo, Colorado, for Pride last August, and I had an 11-year-old girl come up and tell me that I was her favorite person of the entire day, and that she wanted to become a drag queen so badly. Her mom was with her and said that she was very inspired by the fact that I was 3 6 \\ A U G U S T 1 , 2 0 1 8

so kind and so willing to take photos with every single person that asked. It was so amazing to receive that kind of support from someone I had never even met. The friendships I have built over the past year have been absolutely amazing and so rewarding. There are so many people in our community that just need a friend and a shoulder to lean on, and it’s been an amazing year to be able to be that.

How important is Pride right now?

I feel that Pride right now, almost more than ever, is so important. With the status of our current administration, having a time that we get to celebrate who we are openly and without fear of retaliation is something that we all need so dearly.

Who is your idol and why?

I have so many idols. If I am thinking of idols here in Denver, I would have to say that Vivian LeCher and Nina Montaldo are my top two.

Nina has been such a guiding light in the community for so long. I could never say thank you enough for all that she has done for all of us.

There are so many other queens in this amazing city that I look up to and that have helped shape my drag over the years, including but not limited to Jessica L’Whor, Kai Lee Mykels, Lacey Vanderpump, Mia Staxx, Jackie Summers, Venus Sexton, etc.

Anything to tell the children?

I guess the biggest thing I would say to anyone in this amazing LGBTQ community that we have in Colorado is to continue being you! If you want to do something, then do it. Don’t let anyone tell you that you’re not good enough to be who you are. Don’t let people tear you down and make you feel less than you are worth. Love yourself! Oh, and one last thing... don’t forget, I am Anita Johnson, and everyone needs a Johnson!

Noveli Your drag SLAYS! Tell us who Noveli is!

Thank you! I like to call Novelí the Batcave, New Wave Drag Anomaly. She’s a dark, punk rock queen inspired by the 80s, and she’s always been a way for me to push against the gender binary and embrace my femininity.

Where do you draw inspiration?

I’m very much a music queen. Especially punk, goth, 80s new wave, and deathrock.

Visually, I like dark sh*t that’s out of the box and severe, but still aesthetically appealing and beautiful in some way. My biggest drag inspirations would probably be people like Siouxsie Sioux, Nina Hagen, and a Spanish singer named Alaska, not to be confused with the drag queen.

You’ve been popping up with drag nights all over. What keeps you motivated?

I’ve always kind of felt like an outsider in gay clubs. I’m into darker, weirder

things, and I’m more feminine than is usually considered attractive in mainstream gay culture.

I want to create spaces where someone like me would feel welcome, someone who is too weird or too gender-non-conforming to feel like they fit in at most other venues.

You’re also a DJ. What are some of your favorite dance jams?

I usually spin at punk rock, goth, or new wavethemed parties. One of my favorite tracks to play is “Red Light” by Siouxsie and the Banshees.

It’s dark and sensual and smart.

What does Pride mean to you?

It means embracing who you are. Growing up, I spent too much time trying to hide the parts of me that were different and made me a target. I think Pride is about learning how to celebrate the parts of yourself that society considers abnormal and giving the people around you permission to celebrate those things too.

Warumono Tell us who Warumono is!

Warumono is simply... me. I am an artist who expresses in many different ways, and it’s a big reason why I don’t change a ‘stage name’ from my daily name, though I do shorten it to just Waru casually.

You seem to destroy gender.

Where do you draw inspiration?

Whatever my head comes up with. I was really into Visual Kei as a youngin’, Japanese glam rock, basically. The boys are beautiful and feminine, but still men. That’s when I first started wearing makeup and

doing my hair, because I wanted to look like them.

What can we expect from your performance?

I don’t even know what to expect from my performances half the time. Hah! I took a break in the beginning of the year to really step back and focus on what I wanted to put out as a performer, rather than rushing my art, so the acts I’ve been putting on lately I’m super proud of. I like to tell a story, as opposed to just putting on a popular song in a neat outfit.

What does Pride mean to you?

Pride is... just Pride. I am proud to be who I am in the queer community. I fought damn hard to get here, and I worked damn hard to like me. I’m still not perfect by any means, but I’m learning to love myself, and I think society has a tendency to shame self-pride.

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Lacey Drawers Tell us all about miss Drawers!

I want to live in a world where emails are short, love letters are brave, and novels come with a bottle of wine, bubble bath, and dark chocolate. I also want to see a world where everyone is truly equal and labels are a thing of the past. I have been applauded in countless cities in America, France, Canada, and the U.K. I am a published, young adult literature author and hold an advanced degree in comparative history. I am currently working on and getting ready to start promoting my upcoming novel and motivational talks around the country.

What can expect from your performance?

I prefer to perform as campy and as fun as I can get. I am a lip-synch assassin and love to highlight my outfits with subtle camp. You can expect the rare queen who actually knows her words! I love to engage

with the audience and just have fun. If I’m having fun, the audience is having fun.

What does Pride mean to you?

Pride to me is protest. I think that pride is a celebration of everything non-conforming and is open and welcoming to anyone who identifies as unconventional. It’s a protest of the heteronormative and of oppression.

Who are some of your biggest inspirations?

Some of my biggest inspirations are Christina Aguilera, Divine, and my drag mother, who has taught me more than just about make up or performances, but also how to be a successful person.

If you were stranded on an island with three other local queens, who would you choose?

I would have to choose my drag daughter Eva Lucien as my first, second my sister Aera Sol, and third, my nerdy sister Elizabeth Waters.

Jessica L’Whor Tell us who Jessica L’Whor is.

Jessica L’Whor is the official Kimmy Gibbler, traveling chameleon, business whore of Colorado! She’s a drag queen diverse and skilled in hosting, looks, and performance. She’s full of love, help, and acceptance just as much as nasty, vulgar, and disgusting.

She’s the hardest working queen in Colorado.

What does Pride mean to you?

Pride, to me, means not having to apologizing for or justifying your style of visible or invisible self acceptance and expression.

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You’re well-known in the local drag scene. How do you keep yourself relevant?

I keep myself relevant by staying in my own lane and not worrying about staying relevant, working on untouched projects, producing shows that provide new opportunities to entertainers, being real with people, supporting my other local drag entertainers, keeping myself humble, representing Colorado appropriately, and just having fun in the process!

What’s the whoriest thing you’ve ever done?

The whoriest thing I’ve ever done is... not appropriate for any magazine! But, follow me on YouTube, and I have no problem talking about it.

Any advice for the children?

My advice for the children... Don’t wait to be the person you want to be. It’s going to take a while for some, but start those baby steps to get to a point where everything you do, act, say, practice, and express is authentically you!

Karma Kouture Tell us who Karma is!

Karma Kouture is Denver’s premier drag queen hip-hop artist. She merges the traditional sense of drag expression with the current wave of hip-hop artistry and performance. She balances the line of performing as a local drag queen as well as striving to take the stage and shift her career towards being a music artist.

What does Pride mean to you?

Pride to me means freedom of expression and the power to embrace who you are and not let that stop you from succeeding in life. Often times, gay people aren’t respected in the industry that they strive to be in, but living in the local Denver area, I’ve been given the power to express myself as creatively as I want without having to fill the pressures that society lends. Being a person of color also presents different challenges, because sometimes the black community doesn’t accept you for being gay, and sometimes the gay community can focus very much on heteronormative ideals. It’s very important for us as performers and as drag queens to express ourselves and show the younger community that it’s okay to be whoever you are.

What keeps you motivated and galvanized?

My biggest motivation is knowing

where I want to go in life. I think at a very young age I have always had huge dreams and aspirations. So what keeps me motivated is pushing towards things that I’ve dreamed about since I was a little kid. Something else that keeps me motivated is getting a taste of success. When you reach something that you’ve been striving for for a long time you get a huge sense of accomplishment, but immediately you strive for the next thing.

Putting out my debut single “Money Hungry” has been a huge milestone of mine. The next step is to record and release my debut EP, then start touring the country. I have to remind myself that things take time to achieve, but having those goals in my head pushes me forward.

What is worst thing karma has thrown at you?

I see what you did there...

My drag sister and I learned very early in our drag careers to always treat people with respect and to always say thank you. I think the worst thing that karma threw at me is me not winning a competition when I believe I should have won. As cocky as that sounds, I knew in my heart of hearts that another competitor wasn’t as good of a performer as I was and wasn’t as creative as I was, but Karma got my ass together real quick because that performer ended up winning the competition. That was a very

humbling experience to me because that taught me that everyone is different, everyone has something to learn from, and everyone has something that they need to grow in. Just because someone isn’t what you see as success, they are still a star

Kaleah Kouture Tell us who Kaleah is!

Kaleah is a fierce, Colombian queen from Orlando, and originally from Houston, Texas.

You’re part of a tight sisterhood. What does queer family mean to you?

Aside from my sister and I, there are two more Koutures— Kimbella and Kamila. We take our sisterhood very seriously.

In our community it’s always good to have a good support system, and being a part of a queer family is an amazing thing.

What is your favorite Pride memory?

My favorite moment from Pride would have to be this past

Pride here in my new home of Denver, Colorado. You guys at OUT FRONT gave me and my sister an amazing opportunity and a platform to share our story with our community. It was one of the most memorable moments of my life that I will never forget. Especially having the opportunity to share that story live at Charlie’s, I got really emotional talking about it, but it was great to be in the presence of such amazing loving people who were there to give me an abundant amount of love and support.

What can expect from your performance?

You can definitely expect high energy and great music. You’ll just have to show up and watch the show. I can say for certain you will definitely enjoy it.

What does Pride mean to you?

It’s crazy how a word like ‘pride’ in the past wasn’t looked at in the best light. However, our community has managed to take that

word and turn it into this amazing movement of loving one another, accepting one another, and, most importantly, accepting and loving yourself. Simply staying true to who you are no matter what color, shape, size, gender identity, or sexual preference.

I’m so proud to be who I am today, and I cannot wait to celebrate Pride with all of you.

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Colorado Has a Shortage of Foster Parents:

You can Help Sponsored Content

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s states across the country pass laws that allow discrimination in foster care and adoption, the Colorado Department of Human Services (CDHS) is raising awareness that everyone, especially members of the LGBTQ+ community, are welcome and encouraged to foster and adopt throughout Colorado. Getting this message out is especially important, given the need for foster families in every community. Based on a CDHS analysis, the state needs 1,200 additional foster families by 2019.

“Sometimes, with very little notice, caseworkers have to scramble to find a family ready and able to care for a child or teen who is entering foster care while their parents address safety concerns and learn new skills,” Minna Castillo Cohen, director of the CDHS Office of Children, Youth and Families, said. “We need additional foster families so that caseworkers can choose among many possible families, so that each child or teen’s unique needs are met and they’re able to stay close to home.”

For an LGBTQ+ child or teen in foster care, having a stable, affirming foster family is especially important. National research shows that young people who identify as LGBTQ+ are overrepresented within foster care. LGBTQ-identified children and teens experience foster care for many of the same reasons as other young people in care, but they potentially have the added layer of trauma that comes with being rejected or mistreated because of their sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression.

“Every child and teen deserves a nurturing, affirming family that provides them with a safe place to process their feelings of grief and loss, gives them the freedom to express who they are, and offers the support they need to become responsible, happy, and healthy adults,” Castillo Cohen said.

Last year, 10,040 children and teens lived in an out-of-home placement like a

foster family, group home, or residential treatment center for their safety. Today in Colorado, there are approximately 4,868 children and teens in an out-of-home placement.

If it is not possible to ensure the safety and well-being of a child in their own home, a caseworker looks to family or friends willing to provide a temporary home while the parent or caregiver works to improve the situation at home. These families are known as “kinship families.” There are approximately 1,557 children and teens living with a kinship family, and there are approximately 2,190 children and teens living with a foster family.

An additional 809 children and teens are living in a congregate settings, such as a residential treatment center or a group home. Many of these 809 children and teens are ready to live with a foster family, where they are better able to heal from their past traumatic experiences, but no foster family is available to care for them.

Colorado does not discriminate based on sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. You can be married, single, divorced, or living with a partner or friend. You can be a first-time parent or an experienced parent.

You can own your home or condo, or you can rent. All that matters is you’re ready to make a difference for a child or teen at a time in their life when they need you the most.

Learn more about how you can help a child in Colorado at CO4Kids.org/ fosterpride.

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CORKY'S POOL PARTY Photos by Charles Broshous

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BLONDETOURAGE BLONDETOURAGE TO DROP SEXY TO DROP SEXY BEATS ON AURORA Blondetourage to BEATS ON AURORA PRIDE BLONDETOURAGE BLONDETOURAGE DropPRIDE Sexy Beats TO DROP SEXY TO DROP SEXY BEATS ON AURORA on Aurora Pride BEATS ON AURORA PRIDE BPRIDE

By Addison Herron-Wheeler

londetourage, the “wifey DJ duo” who have made a name in Denver with their catchy beats and iconic appearance, are one of the musical acts who will grace the stage at Aurora Pride this year. Gifted with style, grace, and a lot of chemistry, the two are perfect for keeping the party vibes going and cultivating an inclusive atmosphere.

Blondetourage became a couple before they established themselves as a collaborative musical entity, although they met because of the local entertainment industry.

“I thought she was rad,” said Bria Miracle of her wife and DJ partner Erin Beeler. “I thought she was cool, and I didn’t know how to talk to her, but I thought I’d say something.” At first, the pair were friends and dabbled in DJing—Bria in her living room, and Erin at Blush & Blu. A few years later, Erin invited Bria over with an offer too good to resist.

“She said, ‘Hey, I have some puppies at my house; we should hang out,’ and I said ‘I’ll be there as soon as I possibly can.’ Since then, it’s been a sleepover every single night,” Bria said.

The two became an official couple and then decided that the idea of playing music together just made sense. At the beginning of the relationship, Erin invited Bria to collaborate with her during a DJ set at X Bar on the Fourth of July. Thus, Blondetourage was born.

The two now reside in Aurora, and rather than longing for a closer proximity to the heart of Denver, they want to make Aurora an equally welcoming cultural hub. Like many queer couples in Aurora, however, the two feel there is a lack of community in the city due to the fact that there are no LGBTQ bars or meeting places in town and would like to know more about their friends and neighbors.

“I’m looking forward to seeing everyone that comes and getting to know people within our community,” Bria said of Aurora Pride. “Not that Denver isn’t our community, but it’s cool to know that some people live in Aurora. That has been kind of a disconnect because when we moved to Denver, we were both 17 and moved to Cap Hill. We kind of created our communities around us, and now we think it’s nice to have a backyard and be able to find parking, but we aren’t really making those connections out here like we were in Denver.”

The two are excited to play Aurora Pride for the second year in a row and will be sure to bring the party.

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My name is Joseph Boyle. I’m a 27 year-old gay man, with a master’s in counseling, and I fell in love with a married couple.

Don’t worry, I’m going to gloss over the melodramatic retelling of 50 Shades of Gay and jump straight to point.

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What this crazy ordeal taught me is, you have to love the part of you that will lead you into making some of the dumbest decisions of your life. Loving yourself, even through the bad stuff, is what makes redemption, forgiveness, and most of all, moving on, that much more possible.

We are human. We’re flawed, messy, temperamental, and (if you’re anything like me) have the tendency to have just one more shot of tequila, when you didn’t need the two before it.

I hope the next time you stumble, that you are kind to yourself. That you are able to take the bumpy, ugly, road less traveled, and come back from it better for doing so. Risk. Fall short. Fail, miserably, and then dust yourself off and begin again.

After all, a wise man once said, “failure leads to success”.

Joe Boyle, MA Denver Element Program Coordinator

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COLORADO SPRINGS PRIDE Photos by Charles Broshous

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HIENZESIGHT:

What We Think

We Know About Others

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hink about all the times we have looked at someone and somehow just instinctively knew something about them. Maybe we perceived an element about their personality, how they treat others, or what their lives are probably like. We may place assumptions on them about challenges in their lives or how happy they are generally.

our own life experiences. Not only can we take situations that have happened to us and recount them to our friends with a focus on dramatic twists and turns, but many of these experiences shape the way we feel about other people or situations. They create a type of lens that we may see through, and they can change our perspective.

It is easy to do. As humans, we make snap decisions daily based on our perceptions. Initial impressions can feel spontaneously created by us and can emerge with little effort or conscious decision making. Of course, it’s not just about how we see other people. We look at our surroundings and can notice opportunities that seem attainable or fun, while we may avoid situations that seem dangerous or unwanted. Many times, our thoughts can be as simple as determining if we like or dislike something. It usually feels like an instinct that can happen in an instant.

If we have positive experiences with a particular type of person or situation, our initial feeling when experiencing something that may bring up those memories is seen as a more pleasant and optimistic experience. If we get a twinge of discomfort or something brings up memories with a negative outcome, we may choose to not pursue something or someone for concern that it will not end well. We learn through experiences, and that helps to influence our current decision making. Hopefully we don’t usually run to engage those things that haven’t worked out well in the past, and we can avoid making similar mistakes.

As much as we generate perceptions of other people in our minds, there are also times where we may create ideas and stories about them and how they engage with the world around them. Often our impressions of people are influenced by

I think one of the most interesting phenomenons in our culture is how we share a perceived ability to look at someone and begin to formulate an idea about what their personality is like, how they interact with others, and how they

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By Brent Heinze

will most likely treat us if we attempt to engage them in conversation. Most of the time, our assessment feels accurate and can strongly influence our decision to approach that person.

This pseudo-psychic way of scanning deep into somebody’s history often helps to determine what we think of them. Unfortunately, these conclusions are not generally based in fact and can be colored by our experiences or moods at the time. Our perceptions of the individual may not necessarily be negative, but they are also not likely to be true or realistic.

It’s normal to size somebody up. We can look at a person or situation, run it through our long list of memories relating to what we think we know, and make a determination based on our own set of experiences. We only know what we perceive. The problem is that our experiences and memories can be tainted by our emotions, especially by some of the more negative ones.

Those of us who have done a significant amount of work in therapy know that our feelings are not generally considered to be facts. Our perceptions of things do not necessarily reflect accurate reality, especially if we feel very strongly that

they have in some way hurt us.

Take, for example, someone that you may commonly see working out at the gym or dancing at a club. You notice his physical beauty, sweaty muscles, and the way that he interacts socially with people around him. He appears engaged in conversations and may be smiling and laughing.

Obviously, he is very happy and probably doesn’t have many challenges in life, since he is so hot and seemingly wellconnected. He also probably has had good buddies throughout his life and plenty of opportunities to hang out in fun situations. This person may also be thought to most likely be standoffish since he is handsome and probably somewhat narcissistic. His physical interest will be for someone with a similar, buff body type, and he will likely be kind of an ass if approached by someone that he doesn’t consider hot. He probably isn’t really that smart, either.

It doesn’t matter if this is an accurate assessment of this individual or not, but it can absolutely influence someone’s decision about approaching this person. On the flipside, you can look at somebody who is socially awkward and may not look like your ideal physical type to determine that you most likely have little in common. You construct your own ideas about how they live their life and what they have gone through.

When you look at somebody on the surface, you notice those things that they choose to present to others. You don’t get to know someone’s gooey insides until you truly engage with them. It’s impossible to know someone’s past challenges, strengths, pain, insecurities, dreams, or dark secrets. None of us put everything on the table. We live our lives keeping most of our history and experiences to ourselves and only share certain things with people who we truly trust and care about.

What goes on inside of our minds is fascinating. At times, our thoughts are clear and helpful, while at other points in time they can become jumbled and chaotic. Sometimes it is difficult to determine why we think the ways we do. Unfortunately, insecurity and selfloathing can taint our perceptions in very destructive ways.

For example, when we evaluate situations where rejection can potentially happen to us, our thought process can get dark and overly negative pretty quickly. There so many reasons why we might get turned down by someone including age, race, body type, HIV status, our life interests, the shoes we wear, or a zillion other reasons.

This fear can cause us to avoid taking opportunities to engage with someone.

The potential benefits of sticking your neck out are outweighed by the threat of getting your feelings hurt.

Regardless of our upbringing or life experiences, we are all insecure in some ways. Some of us go to greater lengths to heal from them, grow beyond them, or cover them up. Regardless, we still have our battle scars from what life has thrown at us. These often do not go away and can become extremely debilitating if left untreated.

Hopefully we have learned how to better cope with the uncomfortable feelings that emerge when we feel badly about ourselves. Self-deprecation keeps us from being courageous. These emotions may also be at the cornerstone of why we construct unflattering ideas about other people when we feel intimidated or threatened.

We need to push ourselves to pursue opportunities, talk to other people, and fight for what we want. Take a chance and challenge your insecurities to just say “hello” to a cute person. Don’t talk yourself out of doing it or create barriers to not engage someone. Developing the initiative to face our fears can be very hard. It causes us to engage deep-rooted feelings that have developed throughout our lives, and none of us like to feel disappointed, hurt, or rejected.

Instead of making up what you consider truths about other people, take some time and consider how you can give someone a chance and embrace them for who they are. You are also worthy of gaining good friends and enjoyment out of your life. Wasting time making up stories about other people stops you from learning the true story of their lives. Take the time to get to know someone. You may be surprised that you don’t know as much as you think you do.

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BAR TAB | THE HOTTEST COLORADO NIGHTLIFE

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CHARLIE'S® NIGHTCLUB

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S-T 10 a.m.-Close

TRACKS

BL

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AL

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900 E. Colfax Ave. Denver (303) 839-8890 charliesdenver.com MON - SAT: Happy Hour 11 a.m.

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1526 E. Colfax Ave. Denver (303) 484-8548 blushbludenver.com

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OUTBACK CLASSIFIEDS | ENVISIONED BY BOBERTO

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