September 7, 2016 :: Urban Art + Music by OUT FRONT Magazine

S E P T E M B E R 0 7, 2 0 1 6 | O U T F R O N T O N L I N E . C O M | F R E E

COLORADO URBAN ART + MUSIC

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CONTENTS SEPTEMBER 07, 2016 VOL40 NO10

18 06 FROM THE INBOX 16 SERRATED SKY 22 ALEXUS VAIN: THE VILLAINESS VALET OF COLORADO PRO-WRESTLING 24 A MOMENT WITH THE MIGHTY SUR ELLZ

30 HIP HOP’S DARK HORSE OF DENVER: SAINT GEORGE

34 THE COOLEST COLLECTION YOU HAVEN’T ZINE 38 CALENDAR 44 THE ART OF CURATING ART 52 DOING IT WITH THE ART OF TASTE 58 ASK A SLUT

ON THE COVER

Photo Illustration by Trisha Himmler; Urban Art Photos by Michael Reda

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SERVING THE LGBT COMMUNITY OF THE ROCKY MOUNTAINS SINCE 1976 PHONE 303-477-4000 • FAX 303-325-2642 WEB OutFrontOnline.com FACEBOOK /OutFrontColorado TWITTER @OutFrontCO INSTAGRAM /OutFrontColorado FOUNDER PHIL PRICE 1954-1993 ADMINISTRATION info@outfrontonline.com JERRY CUNNINGHAM Publisher J.C. MCDONALD Vice President MAGGIE PHILLIPS Operations Manager JEFF JACKSON SWAIM Chief Strategist EDITORIAL editorial@outfrontonline.com BERLIN SYLVESTRE Editor RYAN HOWE Digital Content Manager BRENT HEINZE Senior Columnist CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Paul Bindel, Jane Custer, Professor Fawn, Kelsey Lindsey, Mike Halterman, Addison Herron-Wheeler, Yvonne Wright, Mike Yost, The Cycle Sluts ART art@outfrontonline.com TRISHA HIMMLER Art Director CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS + ARTISTS Chapman Baehler, Charles Brochous, Piper Ferguson, Justine Henderson, Molly McCormick, Ryan McGuire, Heidi Morgan, Michael Ochs, Michael Reda, Terry Smith, Mike Yost, Getty Images, Colorado Symphony MARKETING + SALES marketing@outfrontonline.com DUSTIN KRIER Director of Sales & Marketing TOPHER LA FLEUR Marketing Executive KELSEY NOLAN Marketing Executive NATIONAL ADVERTISING Rivendell Media 212-242-6863 | sales@rivendellmedia.com DISTRIBUTION

OUT FRONT’s print publication is available semi-monthly, free of charge, one copy per person. Additional copies of OUT FRONT may be purchased for $3.95 each, payable in advance at OUT FRONT offices located at 3535 Walnut Street, Denver CO, 80205. OUT FRONT is delivered only to authorized distributors. No person may, without prior written permission of OUT FRONT, take more than one copy of OUT FRONT. Any person who takes more than one copy may be held liable for theft, including but not limited to civil damages and or criminal prosecution.

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WHAT WE READ, FOR YOU TO READ

FROM THE INBOX

DEAR OUT FRONT READERS, Soon, Colorado citizens will decide whether to support the current insurance system or muster the courage to change it. The Colorado Medical Society has been dedicated to advancing the profession of medicine and to caring for the people of Colorado. In 2006, the CMS House of Delegates recognized that, â&#x20AC;&#x153;The health care system in Colorado is broken and the entire system needs to be reformed. Working only on one part will cause problems in other areas.â&#x20AC;? The delegates then approved the CMS Guiding Principles of Health System Reform.

Coverage Healthcare coverage for Coloradans should be universal, portable, and mandatory. Benefits An essential benefits package should be uniform, with an option to obtain additional benefits. Delivery system The system must ensure choice of physician and preserve the patient/physician relationships. The system must focus on providing care that is safe, timely, efficient, patientcentered, and equitable.

Administration and governance The system must be simple, transparent, accountable, efficient, and effective in order to reduce administrative costs and maximize funding for patient care. The system should be overseen by a governing body that includes regulatory agencies, payers, consumers, and caregivers and that is accountable to the citizens.

Financing Healthcare coverage should be equitable, affordable, and sustainable. The financing strategy should strive for simplicity, transparency, and efficiency. It should emphasize personal responsibility as well as societal obligations due to the limited nature of resources available for health care. We believe that ColoradoCare, Amendment 69, can achieve the principles listed above, and will replace the present adversarial relationship between physicians and insurers. ColoradoCare will improve healthcare across the state via a working healthcare system in Colorado that benefits both patients and providers. Please vote yes for ColoradoCare, Amendment 69, on November 8.

Sincerely, Ben Vernon MD, FACS

past president of the Colorado Medical Society

Laird Cagan MD, FACP

past president of the Boulder Medical Society and Physicians for ColoradoCare co-chair

Mark Matthews MD FACP

Physicians for ColoradoCare co-chair

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LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

WHAT’S SHAKING, READERS? I’m Berlin Sylvestre, your friendly, neighborhood OUT FRONT editor. For this installation, we decided to take a look at some artists from around the city, be them rappers, poets, photographers, spray-paint muralists, pro-wrestling drag queens, you name it. And while we’re all highly proud of the work we’ve put together as a tiny team here in River North, we also realize that there are jillions of other artists whose work needs some highlighting. I absolutely invite you to send your work in for display on our website. It’d be such an honor for us to show you in an online gallery of Colorado artisans, no matter which medium you work through. (Ok, let me back up: So long as it stays R-rated and under, we’re good. Not that we don’t think that anything above isn’t art, but we

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have advertisers who would poke their eyes out seeing their names next to that kinda work. No offense — personally, we’re fans, nudge nudge.)

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WHAT WE READ, FOR YOU TO READ

FROM THE INBOX

CLAPBACK! ON TRANS VS PROPERTY RIGHTS I’m all for “hearing all voices in the community,” because the strength of the LGBT community has always been its inclusiveness. But for a community to exist, there must be something that binds it together, and for the GLBT community that has been the struggle for civil rights, for equality, and for dignity. This man cannot be a member of this community if he supports a political philosophy that is inexorably bent on taking those rights away. In fact, I immediately perceived that A.J. Smuskiewicz is a shill for the very forces masquerading under the banner of Liberarianism, trying to destroy our community, and in fact the democratic institutions of our nation. Libertarianism speaks of freedom, but a freedom that puts property rights ahead of civil rights is not a freedom at all — it’s a power structure. Civil rights are about equality. Property rights are about controlling the behavior of others, which is the exact opposite. Any freedom that circumscribes the rights of others is not a civil right since it’s not available to anyone. By ceding his personal dignity to those who own the property he is occupying, A.J. has effectively made himself into a serf, bound in ideological shackles as restrictive as metal ones. By his philosophy, anyone who would want to completely eliminate the rights of transsexuals to use a bathroom in peace would simply need to buy all the bathrooms. Even public bathrooms — where the fight over elimination with dignity is at its hottest such as in schools, government offices, and transportation facilities — can essentially be “bought” by people with lots of money simply by buying elections, buying public officials, and buying public opinion. This is the disaster that the philosophy of Citizens United has brought onto our country: the replacement of civil

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Eric Novikoff

rights with property rights, including making money equal to free speech. The inevitable outcome is the plutocracy we already have now, where your vote no longer matters because it can either be erased as in the recent California primary, or simply bought by overwhelming you with false ideas through the media. This plutocracy is not a benevolent one. A.J. is an agent of this betrayal of our Constitution, a Constitution that says that all people are equal under the law, not under property rights. His false premise that “Democrats want to force businesses and schools and other establishments to let M2F transgenders ... use the ladies’ room” is a misunderstanding of the Constitution. Forcing people to use a bathroom incompatible with their sexual identity where they will be ridiculed, attacked, or shamed is actually an unequal application of the laws governing civil rights in our country, and thus a violation of the 14th Amendment. A.J. asks us to “respect [ourselves] as an individual” yet he has no respect for himself, shamelessly pandering as a serf to those he offers his misplaced obeisance to, just because they own some property. This kind of self-sabotage, based on deep-seated personal worthlessness expressed as a lack of awareness and respect for our inherent dignity, equality, and humanity has always been the greatest challenge our community faces. Whether it’s trying to fit into the dominant culture to avoid shame or criticism, playing along with the Establishment to gain political power, or pathetically rationalizing the freedom to indulge greed under a dysfunctional Libertarian philosophy, we sabotage ourselves because we don’t think we’re worth it. There’s a reason our celebrations are called “Pride” festivals. Nobody who has pride in who they are would sell themselves and their community out for the almighty dollar as A.J. has.

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SPONSORED

FREE BREAKFAST PROVIDES OPPORTUNITY TO SPREAD SMILES FOR THOSE WHO HAVEN’T IN AWHILE Darrell Bigil “SAVING LIVES ONE SMILE AT A TIME.” That’s this year’s theme for Howard Dental Center’s community breakfast set for 7:30am, September 22 at the Warwick Hotel. The fundraising breakfast celebrates the impact the program’s made throughout the Front Range. The breakfast is free, and donations will be accepted during the program. The majority of patients at HDC lack the basic resources needed to thrive in today’s world. In 2015, over 85 percent of patients were low-income adults, seniors, and youth. Many are still discriminated against when trying to access public dental care. Most of the funding required to provide oral health care at HDC is supported by governmental and foundational grants. However, the need for services far exceeds what available resources can provide and many patients are challenged to complete a treatment plan. This is where the real “beauty” of an organization like HDC shines! Nearly six years ago, for example, Jake was referred to HDC. Jake had lost his natural teeth following years of consuming numerous medications to treat HIV. His gums suffered from excessive bone loss, so over the next 20 months, Jake and the staff researched funding opportunities. It’s been about a year since Jake completed his treatment plan, and to say he’s a changed man is an understatement! Jake’s situation is rare. However, people living with HIV and AIDS still face other oral healthcare issues. More than a third of people living with HIV have oral health conditions that arise because of their weakened immune systems. Eight to ten patients are waiting for funding on average throughout the year. Oral health is overall health and patients like Jake (and countless others) would greatly appreciate the life-change that our community can provide through Howard Dental Care! Join us for breakfast, will you? It’s a stellar opportunity for all! Game to register? Excellent! Call us! 303.962.5307 Web us! HowardDental.kintera.org/2016Breakfast

SAVING LIVES ONE SMILE AT A TIME BREAKFAST/BENEFIT WHO? Howard Dental Center HOW MUCH? Free! (Donations accepted.)

WHERE? The Warwick Hotel (1776 Grant St) WHEN? Sept. 22 @ 7:30am OUTFRONTONLINE.COM

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PHOTO // MOLLY MCCORMICK

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Baile Caliente International Festival // Denver, CO

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2016

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MIKE YOST

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Serrated Sky I walked past a homeless man, a derelict human being with deep lines cut into his forehead as he slept on a fractured sidewalk beneath a blue, threadbare tarp that snapped sharply in the breeze. I quickened my pace, shuffling between the broad shoulders of two abandoned buildings with skin of cracked brick and broken glass — an echo of abandoned and forgotten futures. Then I glanced upward. There they were. There they had been. Hovering high above me. Silent witnesses to the muted madness far below.

Pete’s Kitchen Pete’s is a place to warm our hands on a snowy afternoon, to wrap our fingers tightly around a thick mug of hot Joe that burns the tongue. Pete’s is a place to find company among the friendless, to nourish a lonely heart with the unspoken words of weary strangers. Pete’s is a place for derelict souls, for those Denver denizens who feel endlessly lost — even at home surrounded by those we love.

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Untitled At the epicenter of this sprawling metropolis Walking through the unblinking eye of this composed chaos Solitude tightens around my chest Isolation cleaves away my bones

And I ask how this is even possible So small and secluded among the masses Drenched in denizens

Deafening silence is the only reply

PHOTOS // MIKE YOST

SERIE

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More Than Words DENVER WORDSMITH SERENA CHOPRA BREAKS IT DOWN

Despite the many strides our world has collectively taken away from bigotry, there are still many who do not accept the LGBTQ community, who are prejudiced against people of color, and who donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t believe in equal rights for women. Serena Chopra understands these things as a queer woman of color, and as an accomplished poet and scholar, she can speak about them on a deeper level. But it is truly her status as a human being that allows her to communicate such an honest experience through her poetry. Recently, OUT FRONT caught up with Chopra to ask about her forthcoming book, IC, how it channels frustrations

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and deals with bigotry, and her process for making art.

The new book that comes out this fall, IC â&#x20AC;Ś is this poetry, prose, or hybrid? Poetry.

How do you identify? As an artist and a queer woman of color.

Describe your process writing this book. How did it come about and where did the idea come from? I had been researching and working with composing through the basic sonic and rhythmic levels of speech, focusing on syllable constraints for each line. Words inevitably ended up broken, fallen to the line below. The words began to reveal themselves through their roots and syllables, leading me to investigate certain prefixes and suffixes along with etymologies. I became interested in the way a single syllable could multiply in meaning as it passed

from one line to the next. Additionally, as a PhD student, I had also been personally struggling with the academic institution and the manipulation and contradiction I felt between diversity initiatives and actual integration of difference. I often felt like I had to act like a straight, white man in order to be heard and respected. Many of the classes available focused on the straight, white, mostly male, cannon. Awards were noticeably not given to students of color, and yet the institution seemed to pride itself on diversity. I saw a connection between these struggles and the way words had crystallized, stable meanings and their actual multifaceted history, and internal fragments of meaning.

In what ways does this book deal with LGBTQ issues? The book questions how institutions, academic and corporate, etc., deal with difference and the impact of diversity initiatives on marginalized communities. Being a queer woman of

ADDISON HERRON-WHEELER

color in academia, I felt I was often put in a position of having to disrobe from these identities in order to participate in the university. There is a surreptitious desire for homogenization that I believe not only mutes identities within the institution, but causes erasure on a societal level. By marginalizing already marginalized identities and pushing those who refuse to homogenize to the fringes, institutions use their power as modes of social mobility to enforce homogenization and deplete diverse populations of their community. That language can mean multiply, that each word’s history implies an innately internal diversity and mutability of use, parallels, for me, the contradiction between the ways we do verses the ways we could approach identity.

Is there anything else you would like to add? Support your local queer artists! And collaborate to make more unpredictable art!

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OUR HERITAGE OF JUSTICE IS JUST THE TIP OF THE ICEBERG OTHER WORKS BY SERENA CHOPRA THIS HUMAN (COCONUT BOOKS, 2013)

LIVID SEASON (FREE POETRY, 2011)

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Various Street Art + Graffiti // Denver, CO

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Alexus Vain: The Villainess Valet of Colorado Pro-Wrestling Professional wrestling isn’t exactly the queerest of spaces. It’s a place for straight boys to learn gender norms through the soapopera drama of faces* and heels* tumbling in a mess of spandex, muscle, smack talk, clotheslines, body slams, jeers, cheers, and groans. Then again — don’t all of these elements belong in a quality drag show? Enter: Alexus Vain, the only out prowrestling performer in Colorado. She wears a seductive gown, a pile of hair, luscious makeup, and a wicked grin. “If Mae West from Myra Breckinridge and the Evil Queen from Snow White had a child,” she says, “that’s Alexus Vain … I never appear in the same clothes twice in one night.” Alexus was drawn to the women of wrestling from a young age: “I always

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loved the valets,* but what made me want to become one was Sensational Sherri Martel. She was over the top, wearing exotic eye makeup — spider webs or starburst over her eyes — and I thought, ‘I want to do that!’” When she began five years ago, Alexus had a moment’s hesitation (“Let’s face it, wrestling is more of a straight industry”), but she resolved, “It can’t be any worse than other bitchy drag queens, and I had done that for 10 years, so I wasn’t afraid.” Though her character differs slightly at

her two promotions,* she prefers playing the villain: “It’s more fun. If you’re doing drag, and people hate what you’re doing, you’re petrified; whereas, if people hate what you’re doing in wrestling, it’s empowering. I feel the most energized when the fans yell at me, when they yell at the ref, when they call me names. If they’re talking about me, be it good or bad, at least they’re talking about me.” Her misdeeds? “I hand my wrestler a roll of pennies to hit the other guy. They only get a roll of pennies because they ain’t even worth 50 cents. I choke

“I hand my wrestler a roll of pennies to hit the other guy. They only get a roll of pennies because they ain’t even worth 50 cents. I choke opposing wrestlers on the rope if I have to. I scratch their backs and poke them in the eyes. Once, I showed my boobs to the referee to distract him. I get away with things that straight women would never do.” PHOTO // TERRY SMITH

PAUL BINDEL

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opposing wrestlers on the rope if I have to. I scratch their backs and poke them in the eyes. Once, I showed my boobs to the referee to distract him. I get away with things that straight women would never do.” And in a sea of testosterone, Alexus connects most with straight women after the show. “The women and little girls come to see me. I come out four times, and I always change my outfit. Women will come up and ask, ‘Where do you get your clothes?’ A little girl came up to me once after a show and said, ‘Can I tell you something?’ And I said, ‘Sure,’ and she said, ‘You’re so beautiful.’ Then she said, ‘Can I tell you something else?’ and I said, ‘Sure,’ and she said, ‘You look just like that Miss Piggy on TV.’ And I thought, to her, that’s glamorous. I’ll take it. I’ve been called much worse.” You can catch Alexus Vain and her “handsome men” on September 4 at 7pm at the Watering Bowl (5411 Leetsdale Dr) or on September 10 at 6pm at the Buffalo Rose (1119 Washington Ave in Golden).

FACE A CHEERWORTHY HERO HEEL A BOOABLE VILLAIN VALET A FEMALE MANAGER OF A WRESTLER OR WRESTLING TEAM PROMOTIONS A BUSINESS THAT HOSTS REGULAR WRESTLING EVENTS

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ADDISON HERRON-WHEELER

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A Moment with the Mighty Sur Ellz BEATBOX, HARMONY, GENIUS, AND A LOOPER ARE HALLMARKS OF DENVER’S BELOVED SOUND-MACHINE

When I spoke to local R&B producer and singer Sur Ellz, AKA Khalil, I was struck by how well he seems to know himself. It’s one thing to be in the closet as an artist, or to be out but try and downplay your identity at every turn, and it’s another to completely latch onto that identity by ensconcing yourself within the gay community as a drag or “queer” performer. These are often the routes taken by gay artists. But what Sur Ellz is doing is truly brave and unique. He is allowing his identity as a gay man to guide his music, to shine through in his choice of inspiration (Prince), his natural femininity, and his LGBTQ-positive choice of working with a lesbian couple for DJ support. But he isn’t completely relying on that identity to define his music, as he realizes he is so much more than just his preference for love. Sur Ellz spilled it to OUT FRONT on the topics of music, style, inclusion, and creativity.

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Who are some of your biggest musical and style influences? I would say that there is a very wide array of different influences that I’ve come into — I’m very inspired by Prince and Timbaland, very inspired by Pharrell and the whole N.E.R.D. project that he put together. I’m also very inspired by Beyoncé as far as her stage presence and how she can command an audience. She has inspired me to enhance my ability to sing and dance, give that theatrical performance.

How would you describe your sound? I would say that my sound is alternative soul, because it’s very influenced by some of the artists I named earlier, but also very non-genre, because it incorporates so many different genres. I grew up on 90s R&B so that is very present, but I’ve also grown into liking and appreciating different styles of alternative rock, like psych rock, garage rock, etc. I’ve kind of created by own flavor of what I feel like music should be like today.

How does identifying as queer in any way factor into or influence your creative expression? PHOTO // JUSTINE HENDERSON

I am just now coming into a place in my life where yes, I’m an out artist, and I don’t want to fall into that genre where I am just a gay artist, but I want to be proud to be out and comfortable in my skin, and I owe that to people who have come before me, who have been fearless and experienced huge amounts of success.

How does identifying this way factor into your perception as an artist, and how you are received? Generally unless people have heard about me, people don’t really know; my lyrics are very non-gender-specific. I don’t really say “boy” or “girl” when speaking in love songs. For a while I was very insecure and I let that stifle me from being where I’m at right now — I wasn’t ready mentally, and I didn’t feel society was ready to see an artist like me perform to the caliber I am capable of. I always kind of feared people not really accepting me, but the times are changing, and I think the way people perceive me is changing. I think when people see me on stage they won’t see me as Sur Ellz the gay artist; they will see me as Sur Ellz the artist. Check out his first EP, Magic, which was released last September, and be on the lookout for upcoming appearances presented by Red Bull Sound Select.

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The Empowered

(Not Defeated)

Queeroes of Melanie Gillman

Artistic powerhouse Melanie Gillman, is a queer nonbinary cartoonist, writer, illustrator, and professor. They are the creator of graphic novels As the Crow Flies and Smbitten. They also illustrate Roar Comics’ new Care Bears. Their work as illustrator and graphic designer includes book covers, interior illustrations, posters, cards, and product labels. Their style is distinctive and juicy. As the Crow Flies is a poignant, beautifully illustrated web-based graphic novel. Melanie’s illustrations and sensitively written text introduce us to Charlie, a queer 13-year-old black girl who finds herself stuck at an all-white Christian youth backpacking camp. The comic

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reminds us of our own experiences of feeling isolated and ostracized without an escape. Charlie deals with fellow campers and counselors whose actions and words communicate layers of across-the-board prejudices against those who are nonwhite, non-Christian, and homosexual. All young adults could benefit from reading As the Crow Flies. I asked Melanie about their inspiration for this graphic novel: “Partially, As the Crow Flies was inspired by my own experiences as a queer, nonbinary kid at Christian youth camps. I wanted to tell a story about how queer kids navigate homophobic and transphobic religious spaces, and about how queerness can intersect with certain crises of faith experienced at a young age. I wouldn’t call As the Crow Flies autobiographical, though — Charlie’s story is definitely her own.” Asked about artistic goals, Melanie states, “I primarily write queer [young adult] comics, so my main goal is to reach young

queer readers who need more positive queer representation in their life. LGBTQ kids’ media is hard to find, and most of what is available is still being written by straight/cis authors — most of whom seem to think a queer/trans story isn’t ‘real’ unless it’s tragic. We do kids a serious disservice, constantly offering them stories about queer and trans people who end up victimized; I’d much rather hand kids a story about queer and trans people who are given agency, and are allowed to be resilient, creative, and complex.” This truly explains the importance of Melanie’s work. For light-hearted reading check out Melanie’s first graphic novel Smbitten (“A Ladies Romance with Teeth”). Smbitten, Melanie’s first all-colored-pencil graphic novel, is “about lesbians, swing-dancing, fancy hats, and vampires.” Why did Melanie turn their artistry to comics? “The comics medium has always spoken to me, way more than other strictlyvisual or strictly-text mediums. There are

JANE CUSTER

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so many things you can do as a storyteller as soon as you combine images and text in narrative sequence! I also like how personal comics are. Especially in the small press and self-publishing world, most comics today are created by just one or two people — and every cartoonist brings their own individual touch to their work, both in terms of art and writing. Aside from the handful of mainstream publishers who keep to “house styles,” there’s a huge amount of stylistic variety in modern comics, and room for even more experimentation and innovation. I like being a part of that!” Melanie adds, “It’s a good time to be reading queer comics — there are more queer people making comics today than ever before, and the quality of those comics is incredible.” How does Melanie stay motivated as a busy artist? “I’m definitely busy, but busy doing what I love. Being able to make a living off of comics requires a lot of hard work and long days, but I’m incredibly grateful that I get to wake up every morning and work on stories that I care about deeply.” Melanie Gillman — living the artist’s dream.

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Various Street Art + Graffiti // Denver, CO

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Hip Hop’s Dark Horse of Denver: Saint George Rap is one of the boldest, most unapologetic genres out there. So it follows that when rap done by those who identify as queer takes that abrasive energy and infuses it with the culture and ethos of the LTBGQ community, the result is stunning. Saint George, a local rap artist who dabbles in drag and makes raw rap music, gave us the lowdown on his sound and how he fuses queer and rap culture.

Who are some of your biggest musical and style influences? In terms of my lyricism, I take a lot of influence from doom and stoner metal bands. The way they work references to

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horror cinema and paint really bleak, yet alluring pictures is something I strive for. Older Memphis rap too, the triplet flows and shit. In terms of style, I honestly love Kylie Jenner. A lot of the way I dress and do my makeup is inspired by her: satin bombers and dad hats. Shouts out, Kylie.

How would you describe your sound — what kind of music do you make? I make dark rap music. It’s really sarcastic and hedonistic, I think, and hopefully horrific at times, too. There’s a lot of the standard stuff about buying clothes, doing drugs, being promiscuous in my lyrics, but I try to get across how much damage that lifestyle is doing to me and other kids like me. I want people to feel a little guilty when they party to my music.

How do you feel local cultural movements such as hip hop and rap treat the

LGBTQ community? Is there a lot of inclusion? Is there any prejudice? You know what? I feel so blessed in that regard. All the rappers that I’ve met so far have been relatively cool and

There’s definitely a lot of prejudice in the rap world, especially the further you stray from the mainstream, or from underground internet shit. A lot of the dudes who claim to be the most ‘woke’ say so much abhorrent shit about gays on their tracks.

ADDISON HERRON-WHEELER

URBAN ART

BE OUR

GUEst OCTOBER 15

understanding about my queerness, although to be fair, most of my experience is in Denver, New York, or L.A., which are all pretty progressive, almost sheltered places. I would imagine my experiences elsewhere might not be so kind. There’s definitely a lot of prejudice in the rap world, especially the further you stray from the mainstream, or from underground internet shit. A lot of the dudes who claim to be the most ‘woke’ say so much abhorrent shit about gays on their tracks. Or sometimes people in the crowds say nasty shit, and I get comments online.

How does identifying as queer in any way factor into or influence your creative expression? I have so many friends who are like me, that don’t fit into any one box, who are very sexually fluid. I wanted to make music for kids like them, because I feel like no one is really doing it. I wanted to

try and like carve a niche of some kind for all the kids like me, who stay up on the internet learning about clothes and designers, and love gangster rap and watch horror movies and don’t catalogue their sexuality.

What are some of your favorite ways to express yourself through drag? For me, wearing makeup and crossdressing are two different things, rather than an extension of the same idea. When I wear clothing designed for women, it’s usually for performance. The outfits are outlandish or over the top. I love crop tops, though; I wear them all the time. Makeup, on the other hand, is something that I just love. I started to wear makeup and get my nails done regularly because I love the way it looks. I love the look of natural contours and lip liner and well-done eyebrows; I don’t think that should be a strictly feminine thing. I don’t understand that. If you like how something looks, do it.

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Art by Myah mixed media + sculptures // Boulder, CO

SEPTEMBER 07

2016

2016 AIDS WALK CO The 2016 AIDS Walks Colorado was held in Cheesman Park on August 20th. The annual event is the Rocky Mountain Region’s oldest and largest HIV/ AIDS fundraiser. Thousands of participants came out to help raise funds for the Colorado AIDS Project and other AIDS service organizations in Colorado. In addition to the 5K walk and run, this year’s festivities included live entertainment, food trucks, a beer garden, the Diva Dash stiletto fun run, a volleyball tournament, and panels from the AIDS memorial quilt. Photos by Charles Broshous

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The Coolest Collection You Haven’t Zine

THE DENVER ZINE LIBRARY IS A GEM AWAITING YOUR DISCOVERY ON CURTIS STREET

In a shared artist space called The Temple, Kelly Shortandqueer and Jamesz Terry founded the Denver Zine* Library, a non-profit organization, in 2003. Its mission is to “preserve, protect, and promote the culture of zines and selfpublished, original work through archival collection, workshops, and events.” The Library holds one of North America’s largest zine collections. Volunteers lend zines and conduct workshops encouraging artistic self-expression through zine-making. “Since 2003, the Denver Zine Library (DZL) has cultivated a lending collection that has grown to over 10,000 zines,” Kelly Shortandqueer explains. “Our entire collection has been donated, sometimes as individual zines and sometimes in boxes from the publishers themselves or from someone who is moving and wants to find a good home for their personal collection.” Kelly says volunteers have consistently staffed open hours on weekends and

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facilitated workshops to teach people how to make zines and have their voices heard. As a culmination of archiving and independent publishing, the DZL hosts the Denver Zine Fest. This year, they had more than 75 zinesters from Colorado and around the country join the org in selling, trading, and sharing their works. “As an all-volunteer run project, it’s been incredible that Denver has sustained the DZL for over a decade,” Kelly says. “Having seen so many other projects and organizations come and go over the years, it’s a testament to the support we’ve received. Having revived the Denver Zine Fest in 2015 after a several-year hiatus, the momentum and reputation of the DZL continues to grow.” “There seem to be many specific reasons people are inspired to write and to seek out zines, [ranging] from being a big fan of something, making political statements, teaching others about or how to do something, telling personal stories, and more,” Kelly says of the motivation behind the project. “The common thread is that it’s a vehicle for taking control of the narrative, of being empowered to create our own media and finding the strength in our own voices.”

Says Kelly of the content, as it might relate to the LGBT community: “Because of the interests of the zine librarians over the years, the DZL houses a good number of queer and trans zines. I’ve found that this medium has been an amazing way for people to be able to tell their own stories, especially when they don’t see themselves represented in the media.” Consider us piqued! Before the internet and social media, many members of the LGBT community relied on these struggling but creatively marvelous works to keep us in the loop. For those of you who remember that time, this might be a stellar way to #TBT on a nostalgic afternoon.

“Because of the interests of the zine librarians over the years, the DZL houses a good number of queer and trans zines. I’ve found that this medium has been an amazing way for people to be able to tell their own stories, especially when they don’t see themselves represented in the media.”

JANE CUSTER

URBAN ART

It’s time to get your tickets for

Thurs., Sept. 22, 2016 5-8 pm Radisson Hotel Denver SE Kelly tells of an early experience which gave the DZL momentum: “In 2004, less than a year after the DZL had opened to the public, we [had] issues with the zoning department. The collection of about 2000 paper zines was housed in a detached backyard shed, which attracted a handful of people on weekends. In an interview with Westword, [Julius Zsako, formerly of the Denver Planning Department] was quoted, ‘When you purchase a home, you make the investment thinking that you have a good idea of how the adjacent property is being utilized. You don’t expect a gunpowder factory, recycling yard, or UPS terminal to be located there.’ The scope of our project was so tiny that the comparisons seemed ridiculous. Unfortunately, it led to us packing up the DZL for another location, which felt very stressful and frustrating at the time. Because of that article, lots of people rallied together in support of the DZL, resulting in an interview on NPR’s Summer Reading Series and donations from all over the world.” Please continue supporting the Denver Zine Library! Visit DZL at 2400 Curtis Street. (Ring the doorbell on the 24th Street entrance.) They’re open to the public every Saturday and Sunday from 11am–3pm or by appointment.

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wine and beer tastings; and Chef and cocktail challenges! Tickets are $40 and can be purchased at www.aurorachamber.org/events/details/ taste-of-the-chamber-09-22-2016-94086

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JANE CUSTER

URBAN ART

Shattering the Binary Via Ink Dylan “NDR” Edwards is a prolific artist who produces comics, 2-D art, and sculpture. His art offers something for everyone. While exploring 2016 Denver Zine Fest artists, I fell for Dylan’s work. He’s been interested in comics as a medium for as long as he can remember, so zines and comics are a natural outlet for him. “I like drawing and I like telling stories, and comics merges these two art forms.”

Regarding his work’s specific goals, Dylan says, “I work in both fiction and nonfiction, but the focus is always on creating more representation of folks with queer, trans, and asexual identities. For my non-fic work I do a lot of biography and autobiography. And while I always hope straight, cis folks will read it, I’m not all that into creating didactic or 101 comics that treat a topic broadly — I’m more interested in telling the stories of individuals and their unique experiences.”

Dylan’s recent ongoing project is Valley of the Silk Sky, a queer, non-binary, young adult science fiction webcomic where otherworldly images and characters pull readers into another realm. “I really just want to create a good, engaging story that hooks the reader and makes them want to follow the adventures of the characters. So while the main cast may be queer/ trans, I tend to stay away from identity issues in my sci-fi. Sure, the characters are queer, but what do they plan to do regarding the giant, carnivorous beast that’s bearing down on them? Or the invasive species of plant that’s destroying their economy?”

Other comic projects are Politically InQueerect: Old Ghosts & Other Stories, Politically InQueerect, and Taxonomically Unbound. His minicomics include PG-rated QAT Person, and for all ages, The Ugly Little Beast, a comic containing nonbinary they/them pronouns. Though his audience varies, Dylan says his “focus is always on creating more representation of folks with queer, trans, and asexual identities.” His work also appears in comic anthologies such as No Straight Lines, Q33R, and The Beyond Anthology.

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2016

That’s what he does in Transposes, a queer comic that introduces readers to seven queer-identified, female-to-male transmen. With fine artwork and poignant text, Dylan’s first comic book illuminates the many nuances of FTM lives.

Feeping Creatures Monster Artwork is totally different. This fabulously vibrant,

2-d art and sculpture is playful and appeals to all ages. Feeping Creatures are a break from the intensity of working on comic books, which requires focus and may take months or years to finish. Dylan tells me his Feeping Creatures is a relaxing alternative to his other work. “Their inspiration is much more primal — they’re closer to random doodles than carefully-planned pieces. Specific influences are usually animals, nature, or mythical creatures.” He says they have “big, round eyeballs and broad displays of emotion.” Feeping Creatures are completely adorable collectibles. Finally, Dylan’s Anti-Valentine Cards are perfect for people who cringe during the holiday. What keeps this prolific artist motivated? “I do a lot of comic conventions, [including local shows like AnomalyCon, Denver Comic Con, and the aforementioned Denver Zine Fest] and meeting people who are interested in what I create does help a lot with motivation. Talking in person with someone who made a strong emotional connection with your work is very memorable and inspiring.” Regarding the local art scene, Dylan says: “The best queer/trans representation in comics right now is largely coming from indie creators and small presses. Supporting them by buying their work ensures even more awesome queer/trans comics get made.”

STUDIO NDR: COMICS AND ART STUDIONDR.COM FEEPING CREATURES ARTWORK ETSY.COM/SHOP/FEEPINGCREATURES

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CALENDAR As we focus indepth on music in the Centennial State, we also come to the end of summer, which means a lot of touring productions are ending their runs and selecting Denver as one of the final cities on the tour. As a result, there are a lot of shows to choose from in the next couple of weeks. Let me tell you about a few of them now, and also a few other surprises. Follow me on Twitter @ Mike_Halterman!

Mike Halterman

SEPT 08

BRONCOS FOOTBALL I couldn’t pass up the first game of the regular football season! Show your team pride and support the Denver Broncos, most recently the winners of Super Bowl 50, as they take on the Carolina Panthers in a repeat match of last year’s title game. The game starts at 6:30pm on Thursday, September 8 at Sports Authority Field at Mile High in Denver. Upper-level tickets start at $199 and lower-level tickets start at $250. TicketMaster.com

SEPT 18

PHOTO // CHAPMAN BAEHLER

CYNDI LAUPER

SEPT 10

She taught us that it’s good to be unusual and that showing one’s true colors is beautiful, like a rainbow. Singer-songwriter and activist Cyndi Lauper will be performing songs from her 30-plus-year career, including songs from her most recent album of classic country covers called Detour, at the Paramount Theatre in Denver on Sunday, September 18 at 7:30pm. Charlie Musselwhite will also perform. Tickets cost $43 per person. (Be sure to read my interview with Cyndi Lauper on page 46!) ColoradoSymphony.org 3 8 \\ S E P T E M B E R 0 7 , 2 0 1 6

HONORING JOHN DENVER The Colorado Symphony honors the late twotime Grammy Award winner and former state poet laureate John Denver with a special concert on Saturday, September 10 at 7:30pm at the Boettcher Concert Hall at the Denver Performing Arts Complex. The show pits archived footage of Denver singing his trademark homespun melodies with real-life performances from the Colorado Symphony and from musicians who once toured with Denver. Price levels are between $34–$94. ColoradoSymphony.org

MARIA BAMFORD STAND-UP

PHOTO // PIPER FERGUSON

SEPT 10

Good news, Lady Dynamite fans! The show that took Netflix by storm earlier this year was renewed for a second season, which will premiere in 2017. To tide you over until then, the star and creative genius behind the show, Maria Bamford, brings her stand-up comedy to the Paramount Theatre in Denver on Saturday, September 10 at 8 pm. You can buy your tickets starting at $34 per person. AltitudeTickets.com

Andrew Litton will be conducting the first masterworks concert of The Colorado Symphony’s 2016/17 season. The first concert dates are Friday, September 16 and Saturday, September 17 at 7:30pm at the Boettcher Concert Hall at the Denver Performing Arts Complex. Jon Kimura Parker, renowned pianist and close friends with Maestro Litton, will be playing with the orchestra this evening. Works to be performed include Brahms’ Piano Concerto No. 2 and Also sprach Zarathustra by Strauss. Mezzanine and orchestra tickets start at $10. ColoradoSymphony.org

SEPT 16-18

Showcasing national art and local flavor, this is an event you don’t want to miss. With a national juried art show featuring more than 70 exhibiting artists in 13 media categories, including ceramics, mixed media, digital art, photography, metalworks, and drawing, visitors will enjoy live entertainment, family activities, interactive art installations, and a VIP opening night grand tasting on Friday. Oh, and did we mention it’s free? 2501 Dallas St, Aurora; CherryArtsStanley.org

Monster Energy Drinks and 106.7 KBPI present the High Elevation Rock Festival, beginning at noon and going on all day Saturday, September 10 at Fiddler’s Green Amphitheatre in Greenwood Village. Among the bands playing at the festival include headliners Avenged Sevenfold, Volbeat, Chevelle, Pierce the Veil, and Ministry, as well as nine other popular rock bands. Tickets start at $59.50 per person. AXS.com

SEPT 09+10

LUKE BRYAN Sexy country music sensation Luke Bryan is promoting his most recent album, Kill the Lights, on a nationwide tour, and the tour stops locally at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park in Commerce City for two nights in a row: Friday, September 9 at 6pm and Saturday, September 10, also at 6:30pm. Little Big Town and Dustin Lynch will be Luke Bryan’s opening acts. Tickets start at $39.50. AltitudeTickets.com

SEPT 12

PHOTO // MICHAEL OCHS/GETTY IMAGES

THE COLORADO SYMPHONY

PHOTO // COLORADO SYMPHONY

SEPT 16+17

HIGH ELEVATION ROCK FESTIVAL

SEPT 10

HALL + OATES

Soul legends Hall + Oates have racked up a diverse selection of Top 40 singles, from the smooth ballad Sara Smile to the jammable Rich Girl, eventually finding its most solid footing in songs like Maneater and Private Eyes. The duo will perform at Red Rocks Amphitheatre in Morrison on Monday, September 12 at 7pm. Tickets start at $39.50. AXS.com OUTFRONTONLINE.COM

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PHOTO CLOCKWISE // MOLLY MCCORMICK / HEIDI MORGAN / HEIDI MORGAN

URBAN ART

Top Left:

Mark Allen Curry Copper Cowboy // Boulder, CO

SEPTEMBER 07

2016

EXILE 5 FETISH BALL The Exile 5 Fetish Ball was held at the EXDO Event Center on August 27th. Hundreds of kinksters turned out for Lokusdor Production’s annual celebration of the kink and fetish lifestyle. Exile 5 featured demonstrations, dancing, DJs, fashion, visual artists, and vendors. Over $10,000 was raised to benefit Leather Magick, the Leather Archives & Museum, the Denver Boys of Leather, the Denver Girls of Leather, the Gender Identity Center of Colorado, and the Rocky Mountain Leather Alliance. Photos by Charles Broshous

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YVONNE WRIGHT

URBAN ART

The Art of Curating Art Chances are, you do not have a multi-million-dollar Picasso purchased for $5 at a garage sale. Don’t get me wrong — it does happen. Masterpieces are occasionally uncovered in dusty attics and garages. Just know that the chances of this happening to you are about 100 billion times less likely than winning the Lotto.

more. Many of the “original” oils you find in art clearance houses are assembly line pieces. One person paints the sky, another the mountains, and so on. In the end, it’s often worth little more than the frame it comes in. When my mother died, she left dozens of original pieces from across the globe. Yet, when I had them appraised, the most valuable piece in her collection was not an original painting — it was a 1960s political poster tacked to the back of one of her paintings.

If you want to invest in art — as in, actually make a profit from it — you’ll need to start a collection. First and foremost, buy what you love. After that, follow a few basic guidelines.

Luckily, there are copies that do justice to the original. A print can be anything from a mass-produced poster to an artist’s hand-carved etching. There are dozens of ways to reproduce an original and some are not only beautiful, but worth quite a bit. When buying prints, look for limited editions. I personally will only buy a print if it’s hand-signed and numbered by the artist.

Originals My most memorable moment happened the first time I saw an original Monet. I remember standing utterly still while simultaneously being blown away. I could barely catch my breath. How was it possible a person saw the world this way? The fluidity of colors and bold brush strokes literally had water lilies dancing off the canvas. I was 17 and immensely disappointed when I went to the gift shop in hopes of bringing some of that magic home. Copies couldn’t come near the majesty of the originals. As for value, just because something is an original does not make it worth

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Prints

I also look for older, established artists whose work will likely go up in value after the artist dies. I was able to grab a hand-signed Itzchak Tarkay print before he died and it tripled in value.

Themes The nice thing about buying art with a theme is you will then have two groups of people interested in buying it — art collectors and collectors of whatever’s depicted in the piece. Also know that art is worth more if it represents a period the artist is known for. A cubist painting by Picasso will sell for more than one of the pieces done during his realism period. When people think of Picasso, they think of a picture with a nose where the eyes should be.

Galleries

Whether an original or a print is worth something largely depends on the artist. Established, well-known artists are obviously going to fetch more money and are more likely to increase in value as time goes on.

If you buy from a gallery, you will pay more than buying from the secondary market (eBay for instance). Just like a car, once that painting leaves the showroom, you’re down several hundred (or thousand) dollars. On the up side, galleries are often more reliable in authenticating their work. No matter where you buy your art, always get a certificate of authentication.

At the same time, some of the biggest money-makers are purchased from upand-coming artists before they hit it big. This is always going to be a gamble, which is why you need to buy what you love.

It doesn’t have to be expensive to collect. Supporting local artists encourages future generations of artists. And if you’re lucky, your home will be full of images that can take your breath away!

Artists

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ver since Cyndi Lauper released her debut album She’s So Unusual 33 years ago this autumn, she’s been known to march to the beat of her own drummer. Wearing her individuality on her sleeve, she encouraged her fans to let their own “true colors” shine through as well. A lifetime LGBT activist, she is the cofounder of the True Colors Fund, which aims to end homelessness in the LGBT community. While building the successful non-profit, she was also earning accolades for her role as composer in the Broadway musical Kinky Boots. Where does Cyndi Lauper go after all that work? Back to the recording studio, where she recorded an album that’s very close to her heart. Called Detour, the album consists of covers of country songs from the 1950s and 1960s, and a long list of notables in the country scene lended supporting vocals. It is available for purchase now from Sire Records. I had the privilege of interviewing the music legend herself as she criss-crosses the US and prepares for her Denver tour date in this exclusive for OUT FRONT.

Mike Halterman

I am excited to be performing in Denver again. It’s been sometime since my last show there. Can’t wait to be back and see all my fans there. I love Denver. It’s a great food town, and there are so many great people there. It’s a very progressive place and I love that.

I’ve had the privilege of seeing your concerts in the past and the thing I loved about your concert is that everyone is so involved, singing along with the songs at times. How does it feel to see your fans connecting so personally to the music you’ve written? It is the greatest feeling in the world and also why I take my live performances so seriously. It is my way to connect with 4 6 \\ S E P T E M B E R 0 7 , 2 0 1 6

PHOTO // CHAPMAN BAEHLER

Talks Detour and LGBT Rights Before Her Denver Appearance

Welcome to Colorado! How excited are you to perform for us at the Paramount Theatre?

I get frustrated when I see people holding up their phones and taking videos. You can always see me on video! Concerts are about connecting and if you have a telephone in front of your face, you rob me and you from being in that moment together. my fans and see their reaction to my songs up-close. There is nothing like it. That’s one reason I get frustrated when I see people holding up their phones and taking videos. You can always see me on video! Concerts are about connecting and if you have a telephone in front of your face, you rob me and you from being in that moment together.

Please tell our readers what they can expect from this concert. Are there any surprises up your sleeve? For the first time in a long time, I have some cool production and visuals. Not just a flashlight prop on this tour. I will be performing songs from my new CD, Detour, but of course I will do my hits and songs that I’ve been told are fan faves. I change it up every night. You are going to have to come and see for yourself. But I promise you it will be fun and I have a great band backing me.

I had the chance to listen to your album Detour and I felt the concept was unique and executed beautifully by you and the roster of singers who participated with you. Was it easy for you to convince those artists to sing with you on an album of country standards? I’m so lucky that all of these great artists took the time and gave me their beautiful talent for my record. I met Vince Gill when I did a TV show with his wife Amy Grant about 10 years ago. I met Emmylou Harris a few years back at a Rufus Wainwright event, but I never met Alison [Krauss] or Jewel before. But we

had friends in common so I was able to reach out to them. Willie Nelson and I met at We Are The World in 1985. They are all generous, talented, and amazing and I’m thrilled they said yes to me. Wow!

Out of all the songs on the Detour album, which one spoke to you the most, where you thought to yourself, “Oh, this has to be on the tracklist”? Actually, I have to say that about all the songs on Detour. I took my time with the song selection, but when it was done, I was so happy with the track listing. These are all the songs that I love, with a story attached to each of them, and I know that I can perform them well.

Two years ago, you opened for Cher on her worldwide tour. What was that experience like? Cher is a friend and we’ve done quite a few tours together; it’s always fun. She is just the most generous and kindest person I know. Her team on the road with her is really smart and nice and they are like a family. It feels like you are joining them on a family vacation! We went bowling and we had a movie night. Cher closed a movie theater for us to enjoy [some] movies. We had a lot of good times. Cher’s show is always awesome to behold.

Do you prefer the touring life instead of a routine with a slower pace? I enjoy touring as it keeps me busy. After a long tour, though, I do enjoy a slower pace with my family.

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Yes, family and friend and proud of it. My family, friends, and fans in the LGBT community have taught me how to survive in the face of adversity. Time and time again the LGBT community has never given up as obstacle after obstacle has been placed before them, in attempts to block full equality. I have been proud to stand arm in arm with them as we break through those barriers. They have taught me to never give up.

Your True Colors Fund works to give a brighter future to youth who have become homeless due to coming out and living as their authentic selves. In your opinion, what is at stake in this presidential election for LGBT people, and especially the youth of today? Progress is at stake. The Obama administration has done so much to ensure that LGBT youth have the support and help they need, especially when it comes to homelessness. One of the projects we have partnered with the federal government on is the LGBTQ Youth Homelessness Prevention Initiative, over the past three years. In Cincinnati and Houston, we are figuring out how we can help keep youth from actually becoming homeless in the first place. This is the kind of groundbreaking work that has occurred under the Obama administration and we have to keep the momentum going.

Tell us about the work the True Colors Fund has done recently to combat the problem of LGBT homelessness, and how important it is for cities and counties all over the country to take up the torch as well. Communities are at the heart of ending youth homelessness, and the work we do with communities across the country is at the heart of the True Colors Fund’s efforts to end LGBT youth homelessness. Two of the key things we do are, first, provide free support and tools for homeless youth service providers to make sure their staff are trained to be inclusive and welcoming of all young people, and second, we work with entire communities, like Nashville, Houston, and Cincinnati, to create community plans to end youth homelessness and make sure LGBT youth are a part of those plans. The True Colors Fund is focused on putting the solutions in place in communities nationwide that will actually end youth homelessness. That is why I was proud to testify in the US Senate last year. The True Colors Fund advocated strongly for $42.5 million for a huge demonstration project to help 10 communities around the country figure out how to end youth homelessness. The funding occurred, and that is a big deal. What we learn in those communities will be game-changing in so many ways.

I’m sure people want to know how they can be involved in the True Colors Fund and also what they can do locally to help LGBT youth. What can we do? To get involved with the True Colors Fund, visit our website at TrueColorsFund.org. There are a number of ways to get involved on the website, and you can sign up for our email list to stay informed about things you can do. In your community, find your local homeless youth provider or youth center and volunteer. They can always use help. In Denver, there is a wonderful agency called Urban Peak. Show them some love and support.

Which projects will you be devoted to in the next few months? I’ve heard whispers that you’ve been considering bringing another musical to Broadway. Is this true? Yes, I am working on another musical which I am pretty excited about. I will definitely share more when I am able to. Hopefully soon. Stay tuned. I am currently busy with the Detour release and tour. I’m also making plans to tour Japan and Australia in 2017. Kinky Boots is keeping me quite the busy bee too. We have Todrick Hall coming on board to play Lola in November which I am pretty excited about! For more information on Cyndi Lauper, visit CyndiLauper.com. If you’d like to see Kinky Boots, the traveling production will play at the Buell Theatre in Denver in March 2017. OUTFRONTONLINE.COM

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PHOTO // CHAPMAN BAEHLER

You are one of the most prominent LGBT-rights advocates we have in this country, and once you said you were both “family and friend” to LGBT people. How have your LGBT family members and friends shaped you into the person you are today?

H E I N Z ES I G H T

Stop letting insecurity and panic about not achieving a particular outcome stop you from trying those things that you truly want to do. None of us are perfect and it often takes time to gain the skills necessary to do well at something.

STOP AVOIDING Brent Heinze, Senior Columnist IT’S NOT UNUSUAL TO AVOID THINGS THAT ARE UNCOMFORTABLE. It’s natural to focus energy on aspects of our lives that offer higher degrees of potential success, enjoyment, and fulfillment. Unfortunately the challenging parts may be left untouched and continue to impact us in damaging ways. Many struggle with breaking out of old patterns, especially when it comes to working on tough parts of our lives that we want to improve. Consider the following aspects:

INTIMACY This is a lot more than just getting naked with someone; it’s about allowing another person to get to know us on a deeper level. Although we operate in a surface-level world most of the time, there are people who are worthy of getting to know you better. If you feel those people aren’t in your life, you may be picking the wrong type to hang out with or could be struggling with allowing yourself to be truly honest with people beyond topics you consider safe to discuss.

FEAR OF FAILURE Being really bad at handling rejection or not being good at something often keeps people from stepping outside their comfort zone. Stop letting insecurity and panic about not achieving a particular outcome stop you from trying those things that you truly want to do. None of us are perfect and it often takes time to gain the skills necessary to do well at something. Not trying will absolutely result in failure.

OUR DESIRES We can choose to blame society for stifling us in getting what we want. Our dreams may be crushed with the painful reality that it may take money, skills, and time that we don’t have available to achieve these. Our passions may be locked away by not 5 0 \\ S E P T E M B E R 0 7 , 2 0 1 6

being honest about what interests or intrigues us, not feeling confident enough to ask for those things, or acknowledging the other emotions that stop us from getting what we want.

CONNECTING Sticking body parts in each other may not necessarily show that you are truly feeling that a connection is happening. It doesn’t matter if it happens physically, emotionally, or spiritually. The feelings of bonding that can happen with another person are extremely beautiful and exciting when they happen. It doesn’t always have to result from a gigantic explosion of interpersonal bliss. It can simply come from a great conversation or spending a fun time together.

HAPPINESS Although many don’t necessarily know exactly what would make them feel happy or fulfilled in their lives, we definitely know when something sucks and causes us to want to lash out or run away. Take the time to evaluate when something great is happening currently and what you wish for the future. Don’t think that gaining a few key elements in your life will cause a magical fairytale to unfold in front of your eyes. Like with any accomplishment or something challenging to achieve, it may take a significant amount of investment to get where you want to go. There are times when it may seem overwhelming or that the effort necessary is too much. Fight through these desires to give up and return to the status quo. It is not always easy, but the success gained by working through those issues that keep us from developing amazing lives can help us gain confidence in our ability to be successful in many other aspects. Don’t let past patterns of avoidance stop you from getting what you want. Think about incorporating the phrase, “no guts, no glory” into your list of available mantras.

2017 COLORADO FIREFIGHTER CALENDAR DEBUT The 2017 Colorado Firefighter Calendar Debut Party was held in downtown Denver on August 27th at City Hall. Sixteen firefighters from across the state were selected to appear in next year’s beefcake style calendar. The selected firefighters volunteer their time to raise funds, attend events, educate children on fire prevention and increase awareness for the Children’s Hospital Colorado Burn Center. Net proceeds received from the sale of calendars and special events will directly benefit the Children’s Hospital Colorado Burn Center and other centers across the state. For more information or to purchase a calendar, visit CoFirefighterCalendar.org. Photos by Charles Broshous

YOYO

Yoyo is a sweet boy with an adorable personality. He would do well in an active home with plenty of playtime and walks. He would like to meet any household dogs at the time of adoption.

BELLA + ABYSS

Bella + Abyss are looking for a home together! They enjoy treats, affection, ear scratches, and were housetrained in the past. If you’re looking for double the love, come meet these two today!

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H EA LT H

Professor Fawn HUMAN BEINGS ARE IMMEASURABLY CREATIVE. OUR BIG BRAINS HAVE allowed us to move mountains and walk on the moon. Those same big brains have also allowed us unlimited perversity, both in mind and body. The world is our playground, filled with endless opportunities to heighten our sexual play, and nothing lends itself better to whetting our carnal appetites ... than food. Food is always with us and has been there since we evolved to have stomachs. It nurtures us when we are blue, and helps us celebrate when we are elated. Why wouldn’t it be a source for erotic play as well? There are several different ways we can combine food and sex. The option with which most people are familiar is seductive suckling. Your partner passionately feeds you sexy things like chocolate-covered strawberries or oysters, depending on your palette. Any food can be used, but the best ones are bite size and simple; this is not the time for a gourmet meal. Remember what you’re there to do. One of the reasons that food play is so enjoyable is that it forces us into a state of mindfulness. We’re concentrating on the present and focusing on our senses — this is the ideal state to be in during sexual play to keep the blood flowing to the right places. Blindfolds are pleasurable, with or without being paired with food, because losing sight creates that same experience of focused, heightened senses. Another reason why food has been such a popular side dish to sex is the promise of the aphrodisiac. Allow me to save you a possible fortune and a whole lot of disappointment, there is no such thing. Foods get labeled an aphrodisiac because they either look like genitals or are made out of a creature’s genitals. You can eat Rocky Mountain oysters all day long, but it won’t increase your sexual appetite. However, placebos work wonders. If you believe 5 2 \\ S E P T E M B E R 0 7 , 2 0 1 6

licking a fig is going to make you horny, it will! So, lick away to your heart’s content in your fig-filled sanctuary of romance. Tired of the humdrum of amorously sharing a midnight snack? Some venture even farther into this mixture of food and sex. Currently referred to as “splooshing,” the act of smearing food on yourself or your partner can be gratifying in many ways. For those who aren’t afflicted with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, getting messy can be loads of fun! Again, it encourages us to appreciate the moment and concentrate on our senses; the lotus of sexuality. One of the more popular forms of this is “cake sitting,” which is pretty self-explanatory. Before you write this off as a rarity, there are currently 490 cake-sitting videos on Pornhub alone. A word of caution: Do not insert food directly into the body, especially the vagina. Sugar in the sweet spot causes yeast infections, so please avoid! That also means whatever you may be inserting into that vagina needs to be thoroughly cleaned, and hopefully covered in a condom! Regardless of where the food is going, do be prepared for the clean-up. A tarp is handy as a protective layer and then you can add sheets and/or blankets that can be easily washed or discarded. If that’s too industrial for you, protective sheets (with rubber on the underside) are a great option. Have an extra towel or robe that you can wear if the bathroom is inconveniently far away from base camp. Finally, plan for a sexy shower afterwards, because the only thing more fun than getting dirty is rubbing each other clean. Have fun and play safe! Fawn Oates has been lecturing on topics of sexuality at the college level for 15 years. She is currently a professor at Red Rocks Community College and teaches a variety of classes including the Psychology of Gender, Human Sexuality, and the Psychology of Transgenderism.

PHOTO // RYAN MCGURIE

DOING IT WITH THE ART OF TASTE

Any food can be used, but the best ones are bite size and simple; this is not the time for a gourmet meal. Remember what you’re there to do.

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H EA LT H

OR DON’T. THE VERDICT ON ITS HEALING EFFECTS IS STILL OUT. Kelsey Lindsey IMAGINE THIS: A 6’4” OLYMPIAN WITH A BODY OF A GOD, EMERGING from the pool after winning his 19th gold medal … mottled with extraordinary spots.

evangelists as the cure-all, solely because of its non-Western origins. Both feed off each other, especially when there is a limited amount of research on it, like cupping.

Specifically, this was Michael Phelps after his win in the men’s 4x100-meter relay at the Rio Olympic Games, rocking circular bruises on his shoulders and back. These spots are the result of cupping — not a lewd sex act, but an ancient Chinese healing practice that’s become popular with athletes both at the games and outside (including Denver Broncos player DeMarcus Ware). Ask anyone with these telltale marks and they will likely gush about the healing benefits of the practice, claiming that it helps them speed up blood flow to the desired area and aid recovery after a hard workout.

In a 2010 review of 550 clinical studies looking at cupping in China, researchers urged more scientific research to support claims that it helps ease pain. Once more, they found no study with a “low risk of bias,” with the majority evaluated as having a “high risk of bias.”

The technique starts with placing glass cups on the desired area — think a seamless wine glass afixed with little nipple attachments. The practitioner then uses either heat or an air pump to create suction inside the cup, pulling up the skin from the muscles underneath while also bursting the capillaries and leaving you with giant bruises. But does it actually do anything to help?

But what may be the most telling, especially when looking at cupping in sports medicine, was a 2012 exploration of cupping’s effect on those with knee arthritis. While the group that received the cupping treatment had less pain than those who weren’t treated with cupping, the New York Times is quick to point out that it might have been a result of the placebo effect given that those receiving the treatment knew they were doing so.

It’s a good question, especially because anything dubbed “Eastern medicine” is (a) regarded skeptically by the Western medical community and/or (b) picked up by Goop-style

In short, the science is still out on cupping, or, as I lovingly call them now, hickey marks from the Big Friendly Giant. Tomato, potato.

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A 2013 study also encouraged more research into the practice due to the relatively small sample size it used to compare cupping to another technique called progressive muscle relaxation.

PHOTO // GETTY IMAGES

GET CUPPED!

The practitioner then uses either heat or an air pump to create suction inside the cup, pulling up the skin from the muscles underneath while also bursting the capillaries and leaving you with giant bruises. But does it actually do anything to help?

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O U T BAC K CLASSIFIEDS Envisioned by Boberto

Need help?

If you believe you’re a victim of a sex or hate crime, contact the Survivors Organizing for Liberation 24-hour statewide hotline at 1-888-557-4441

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BAC KWOR DS

ASK A SLUT [WARNING: GRAPHIC]

What’s your sign? Latexa: Caution! Slow children at play. Cookie: Wrong Way! Zoey: Gemini with a side of glitter and a splash of vodka.

JackLynn: Yield! Cherri: Open 24 hours!

What song do drag queens need to hang up for good? Latexa: Anything by Judy, Barbara, or Celine. Cookie: Whitney Houston’s I Will Always Love You. Actually, anything by her needs to be put away.

Cherri: It’s Raining Men. We have enough men! Send some toys down.

If you could build your dream man, what are three of his must-haves? Latexa: First, he needs to have a good sense of humor. Second, he would have to have a really good job. Third, he would need to have a really big 5 8 \\ S E P T E M B E R 0 7 , 2 0 1 6

dick. Strike that actually he would have the ability to carry on a conversation, while eating my ass.

Cookie: A beer belly, no teeth, and bad breath. You didn’t say it had to be a good dream.

Zoey: A big heart, a big dick, and total devotion to me. (I married him.)

JackLynn: Is it even possible to have THREE of those on one man?!

Kay: Love of Skulls, Love of Skulls, Love of Skulls Cherri: Big dick, big ass, and a big wallet.

If you had to sleep with a woman, who would it be? Latexa: Grace Jones. You know she’s a power top. Cookie: My wife and her best boyfriend. Zoey: Caitlyn Jenner circa 1970s. JackLynn: Can we just hold a lottery? Kay: Charlize Theron. Cherri: The Fascinations mannequin. (Suction toys stick better to them.)

10/30/2016

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