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Vol. XXXVI • Issue #12 • september 19, 2012
Contents
Columns and Departments
COVER STORY: “By and large the racism is no different than in the larger community. As a person of color it can be hard to find your space, and when you find prejudice coming from both sides – homophobia from the AfricanAmerican community and racism from the LGBT community – it’s magnified.”
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– Leslie Herod
ART FROM ASHES:
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“Our program crosses all kinds of cultural boundaries. It isn’t about specific struggles; it’s all about self-empowerment ... Any young person who is struggling deserves a fair shot at self-actualization and some understanding of his or her creative power. That can change the world for them.” – O’Neill Thorn
focus 6 letter from the editor 7 SPEAKOUT 10 PANEL voices 13 @nicgarcia 14 out in colorado body and mind 17 Beauty 21 faith & spirit Social 24 food for thought 26 hIGh society 31 bar tab 32 on the scene with charles travel & shopping 36 travel 38 qrave living 43 fashion 45 art from ashes 52 sexuality
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Serving the LGBT Community of the Rocky Mountains since 1976 3535 Walnut Street Denver, Colorado 80205 Phone: 303-477-4000 Fax: 303-325-2642 Email: info@outfrontonline.com Web: OutFrontOnline.com Facebook: facebook.com/OutFrontColorado Twitter: @OutFrontCO Out Front Colorado is published by Transformation Communications Group, LLC, a Colorado limited liability corporation and is a member of: Denver Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce and Denver Drama Critics Circle. Phil Price / Founder, 1954-1993 Jerry Cunningham / Publisher Email: Jerry@outfrontonline.com J.C. McDonald / Vice President / Director of Circulation Email: JC@outfrontonline.com Nic Garcia / Associate Publisher Email: Nic@outfrontonline.com
ED ITORI AL Jeff Jackson Swaim / Editor-in-Chief / Creative Director Email: Jeff@outfrontonline.com Holly Hatch / Executive Editor Email: Holly@outfrontonline.com Matthew Pizzuti / Junior Editor Email: Matt@outfrontonline.com maya salam / Copy Editor Contributing Writers: Brent Heinze, Maya Salam, Misty Milioto, Robyn Vie-Carpenter, Scott McGlothlen, Jeff Steen, Josiah Hesse, Gary Kramer, Mike Yost, Michael Pearson, Ashley Trego, Nuclia Waste, David Marlowe, Steve Cruz, Chris Azzopardi, Christine Mcmanus, Shanna Katz, Max Oliver, Amy Lynn O’Connell, Jonathan McGrew, Jasmine Peters. Editorial Intern: Lauren Archuletta
ART Sara Decker / Art Director Email: Sara@outfrontonline.com Crystal Hatch / Freelance Designer Charles Broshous / Photographer
SALES ryan cross / Senior Marketing Executive Email: Ryan@outfrontonline.com jordan jacobs / Marketing Executive Email: Jordan@outfrontonline.com DISTRIBUTION: Out Front Colorado’s print publication is available semi-monthly, free of charge in Colorado, one copy per person. Additional copies of Out Front Colorado may be purchased for $2.95 each, payable in advance at Out Front Colorado offices located at 3535 Walnut Street, Denver CO, 80205. Out Front Colorado is delivered only to authorized distributors. No person may, without prior written permission of Out Front Colorado, take more than one copy of Out Front Colorado. 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. COPYRIGHT & LIMIT OF LIABILITY: Reproduction of editorial, photographic or advertising content without written consent of the publisher is strictly prohibited. Advertisers are responsible for securing rights to any copyrighted material within their advertisements. Publisher assumes no responsibility for the claims of advertisers and reserves the right to reject any advertising. Publication of the name or photograph of any person or organization in articles or advertising is not to be considered an indication of the sexual orientation or HIV status of such person or organization. Publisher assumes no responsibility for the loss or damage of materials submitted. OPINIONS EXPRESSED are not necessarily those of OUT FRONT COLORADO, its staff or advertisers.
september 19, 2012 | outfrontonline.com
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from the editor
The struggle to defeat prejudice starts within Fall can be a time of reflection. The first whiff of dying leaves and crisp notes in the morning air ushering out the summer heat stir childhood memories of the back-to-school season, the year’s final pool parties and backyard barbecues, old romances and friendships. Transitions. We’ll often notice that with cooler temperatures, our inner-workings are heating up – it’s the chance to look inside ourselves, the chilly breeze contrasting a warmth within. It’s the season to understand ourselves more fully. During this transition, we often rediscover emotions, reactions or of color shared an understanding that racism and disparities exist both outside and inside our community, and that the community – habits along the way that don’t necessarily make us proud. Sometimes we think that because we as LGBT folks are a minority an invaluable refuge for many of us – is still not as welcoming to group, facing day-to-day factors that require us to face prejudice or everyone as it should be. The leaders, activists and others we talked to maintained a “come out” all over again in every new setting, that we don’t carry our own prejudices – internalized homophobia, racism, sexism, or common goal and attitude: In order to be our best selves, we other unfair judgments toward ourselves and others. That we don’t have to be willing to put our own prejudices under scrutiny. Having them doesn’t make us inherhave our own blind spots to social adently “bad” – admitting we may have vantages we did not earn. We should them, and then learning to open up know better, right? and listen to another person’s view We often think, “I know what prejuor experience, is the only way to not dice is. I’m an expert on prejudice.” have them anymore. Despite some genuine insights When we came out, we forced we can gain, we are best to always our families and friends to see and remember we’re still human. respond to their prejudices against The LGBT community is unique – LGBT people. We understood that for the most part, we aren’t raised the relationship required introseeing ourselves as “minorities” as spection, reflection and change LGBT people. Usually, our parents from them. It was not “judging” are straight, and the majority of the our families and friends to simply people in communities we are raised ask them to review how they’d misin are straight. Our families and judged us. It’s through that insight friends assume we are, or will be, that we can overcome fear and think straight. We usually assume we are Holly Hatch about where we, too, should change. straight. Growing up, we try to fit in to Out Front is the platform for the our social spheres as much as possible, our closest relationships with people who don’t share our differ- community to talk about issues like racism, sexism, homophobia ence. As we get older, we begin to increase our understanding of and stereotypes. We aspire to be the connecting point for subtle realizations or a more strengthened dialogue between minority groups, that difference. Sometimes it’s hard – many of us are raised to frown upon LGBT in all forms. Through the stories we share, maybe we all begin to realize that people, the community that we will join. Because our own interests are at stake, we eventually push through and shake off that preju- although we sometimes feel powerless with regards to how other dice against ourselves, and then face it in relationships with family people treat us, owr the legal rights granted us by the political system, we have a choice. And we have a voice. and friends. That’s what “coming out” is all about. The only person we have the ability to really change, is ourselves. There are many commonalities in how we move through that, yet our experiences of our sexual or gender identities are also dif- And hopefully, by lending our open ears and expanding the dialogue, ferent – because when we come of age and discover our community, we get a bit closer to unifying our individual human experience. Rather than make excuses for our behaviors, we have the we come to it from ethnically and socially diverse starting-points. option to live with intent, and the true belief that change is We come with many other kinds of assumptions and prejudices. This issue’s cover story delves into the complexity of our strug- possible, within ourselves first, but also in the larger commugles; the reality that prejudice exists both inside and out, even if we nity. Our voices give us power, but only if we start with an open are “out and proud” members of the movement. Many LGBT people ear, and an open mind. ]
> > C O N N E C T W I T H H O L LY < <
Reach executive editor Holly Hatch by email at holly@outfrontonline.com, phone (303) 477.4000 ext. 711 or friend her on Facebook at facebook.com/hollyamberhatch. 6
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speakout
Closing the Gap: Generational differences in Denver’s gay population that our community has to be divided I am proud of who I am. I am proud of my because of our differences. I believe that background, my creativity, my accomplishwe can learn from one another to create a ments, my capacity to love and be loved by a new and unique energy in Denver. large number of friends and family, and I am As the fight for GLBT rights gains proud of being gay. It’s not just one of these momentum, many youth are finding it things that defines who I am; it’s the combinaeasier to come out at an earlier age. There tion of all of them. I am grateful that I am able has certainly been a shift in attitude even to say this because I know not everyone in our within the past few years in regard to accepcommunity has had the same opportunity. tance and tolerance, and with this comes In working in the gay community, I have a different set of rules and social norms. seen a disconnect between the older and By Zach Coming out and accepting yourself at an younger generations. While the “older generSmothers early age is healthy, but the adage “kids can ation” lived through Stonewall and the initial years of the AIDS epidemic, homophobia, and blatant be cruel” still rings true. While the majority may be oppression, the younger generation has not had the accepting, hostile peers often serve as severe road same trials. Of course many of the same issues, like blocks standing in the way of someone coming out discrimination and fear of rejection, still exist for most during middle school or high school. I am the Program Coordinator for a program called GLBT persons regardless of age or experience. Gay youth today face a number of different Mpowerment through The Denver ELEMENT. I coorobstacles and challenges that have come about dinate events, activities and projects for 18 to 24 year old gay, bi or questioning males. It’s a social events through changes in our society. Bullying in schools, a rise in drug and alcohol program that focuses on empowering yourself and abuse and our continued fight for political and civil others and building stronger social networks that will support healthier and stronger decisions and behavrights are just a few. I think that a major reason for the generational iors for young gay, bi or questioning men. One of my gap is that the gay community is very much a youth- goals with the program is to provide opportunities oriented culture. It always has been and I predict for the younger generation to learn some paramount that it will continue for a while, but I don’t believe lessons from some of the more mature gay male
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leaders in Denver. In return, I also want to show how much our gay youth have to offer the community and how much we really are invested in it. The GLBT community has had to fight to get where we are, and we will continue to fight to get to where we want to be. I think it is important for our gay youth to recognize the battle that has been going on long before we got to where we are today. It is also important for our older generations to have faith in the younger generations, to believe that our community is important enough for us to fight for it, and to believe that we will do just that. It is this mutual respect and joining hand-in-hand that will get us further together as one community. I can’t wait for the Mpowerment program to get off the ground in the coming months, and I am excited to see Denver’s gay youth come together and do some great things within our community. I want to see everyone recognize that they have something to be proud of and that they should be proud of who they are. If they don’t have a group of supportive friends or family, I want them to know that they can find that here. ] Zach Smothers is the Mpowerment program coordinator for The Denver ELEMENT. Zach recently relocated to Denver from Iowa City. Zach can be reached at (720) 382.5900 or email zach@thedenverelement.com.
september 19, 2012 | outfrontonline.com
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NEWS opinion
The repeal of Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell: The great non-event Legal Defense Network estimated that over the period of 18 years, 14,500 military personnel were discharged I was a scrawny, timid 17-year-old when I walked into because of their sexual orientation. The SLDN also the Air Force recruiting office in Colorado Springs. I reported the Pentagon spent more than $363 million dollars implementing DADT. remember the recruiter scratching out In 2010, with wars in Iraq and Afghanthe last question on the initial application istan, and key personnel (such as Arabic with black ink. It asked if I was a homotranslators) getting kicked out under sexual. I was glad I didn’t have to answer. DADT, Chairman of the Joints Chiefs of Not long after that, I signed my life Staff Admiral Michael Mullen and other away to four years of military service military leaders stated publically that it (without my parents’ knowledge). I was time to put an end to DADT. remember a strange mix of excitement “I cannot escape being troubled by the and apprehension that first night of fact that we have in place a policy which basic training. It quickly turned into forces young men and women to lie about terror when the TI (Training Instructor) who they are in order to defend their singled me out as soon as we got off the Mike Yost in fatigues fellow citizens,” Mullen testified before bus. I remember him screaming at me, his face bright red as the brim of his hat hovered only a the Senate Armed Service Committee in February 2010. And the American public agreed, with 74 percent supfew centimeters in front of my forehead. It was that first night that I learned the three core porting a repeal of DADT that same year. However, the proposed legislation unearthed an values of the Air Force. We had to repeat them every day. Instructors would ask us at random, trying abundance of doomsayers. In December of 2010, Sen. to catch us off guard. And woe to any unfortunate John McCain walked to the podium on the floor of the Senate. “I hope that, when we pass this legislation,” recruit who didn’t answer correctly: Integrity first. Service before self. Excellence in all McCain said, “we will understand that we are doing great damage, and we could possibly and probably we do. This month marks the one-year anniversary of the harm the battle effectiveness which is so vital to the repeal of Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell. It was signed into law survival of our young men and women in the military.” On this anniversary of the repeal, a newly by President Clinton in 1993. The Servicemembers By Mike Yost
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released study from the Palm Center revealed just the opposite, reiterating what every LGBT servicemember already knows: “The repeal of DADT has no overall negative impact on military readiness or its component dimensions, including cohesion, recruitment, retention, assaults, harassment or moral.” The report goes on to state that the repeal has in fact “enhanced the military’s ability to pursue its mission.” The repeal enhanced battle effectiveness, though the battle for equality is far from over. Transgender servicemembers are still banned from serving openly. Same-sex partners cannot receive military benefits. And I personally know several veterans fighting to upgrade their discharge statuses so they can wear their uniforms again. I was a not-as-scrawny, confident 18-year-old when I graduated basic training. I could march flawlessly, fold my underwear into perfect six-inch squares, and recite the three core values of the Air Force in my sleep: Integrity first. Service before self. Excellence in all we do. There are now an estimated 66,000 gay military members who no longer have to violate that first core value. There are more than one million gay veterans who wish they didn’t. It’s integrity that helps hold a squadron together. And it’s because of the repeal of DADT that our military is stronger than ever. ]
News
Leadership Summit to bolster Inclusiveness in Colorado Gay-Straight Alliances By Mike Yost Colorado’s second annual Gay-Straight Alliance Leadership Summit, hosted by One Colorado and the Colorado GSA Network, will work to empower LGBTQ and allied students, educate school faculty, and strengthen GSAs throughout the state, organizers say. It takes place Saturday, Oct. 6 at the Auraria Campus in Denver. “The theme at this year’s gathering is around intersections,” said Jace Woodrum, deputy director of One Colorado. “Getting LGBTQ youth and their allies to begin thinking about the intersection of race and gender identity, ethnicity and sexual orientation, and how those interplay.” The Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network reported in 2009 that more than half of transgender students had been physically assaulted, compared to a third of LGBT students overall. As a result, almost one in six transgender students were forced to leave school due to harassment and bullying. GLSEN also found in 2009 that LGBT youth of color face additional hurdles. More than half of African- American, Latino, Asian/Pacific Islander and multicultural students were harassed for their race and ethnicity in addition to being bullied for their sexual orientation or sexual identity. “We’re really looking forward to creating some additional consciousness in the young people,” said Woodrum. “Particularly around how they can take the skills we discuss at the summit and bring them back so that their GSAs are in fact more inclusive, so that LGBTQ people of color feel more included, so that transgender kids feel more included in GSAs.” The Colorado GSA Network was established in August of 2011 as a program of One Colorado to provide students and teachers with the tools and resources necessary to create safe schools for LGBTQ
In addition, nearly a third of Colorado LGBT students were physically assaulted in school. The results of such statics are unsettling. Nationwide, 30 percent of LGBT students miss at least one day of school a month because they are too frightened to attend class. The grade point average of LGBT students who were harassed is almost half a Photos courtesy of http://.gsanetwork.org/ grade lower than for students harassed less often. “That’s one of the reasons GSAs are so integral to school culture,” Woodrum said. “Because they provide a safe space for LGBTQ young people to be themselves and to create a community with other LGBTQ youth and allies.” The upcoming Leadership Summit will feature workshops that educate participants on how to prevent bullying in schools, how to report it when it happens, and what to do when a student witnesses someone being harassed. In addition, LGBTQ and allied students will learn how to start and develop a GSA while making them more engaged with the rest of the school community. The first Leadership Summit drew more than 250 people “from Montrose to Grand Junction to Carbondale up from Colorado Springs down from Fort Collins,” Woodrum said. “It was just a really incredible statewide presence, and we’re hoping to do that again in October.” Woodrum added that more inclusiveness in GSAs will bring more students together to help establish a school-wide understanding of LGBTQ issues and seeing LGBTQ young people feeling safer to come concerns, facilitating change statewide. “I think out at younger and younger ages. People are feeling that’s what’s most exciting, and what we hope to more included and safer to be who they are.” continue to do in the coming years.” ] But Woodrum reiterated that despite the progress being made, there are still many students in Colorado The Leadership Summit is a free event. One Colorado who are vulnerable to bullying and harassment. A will provide travel and housing stipends for those who 2009 National Climate Survey reported that 87 percent attend. Participants must register on the Colorado GSA of LGBT students in Colorado were verbally harassed Network website here: http://cogsanetwork.org/news/ because of sexual orientation, and 73 percent were registration-is-now-open-for-the-colorado-gsaharassed because of gender identity or expression. leadership-summit youth and their allies throughout Colorado. After its creation, One Colorado saw a 60 percent jump in GSAs throughout the state, totaling 152 by the end of the 2012 school year. “The incredible increase in the number of GSAs really has been exciting,” Woodrum said. “We’re
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september 19, 2012 | outfrontonline.com
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voices: Panel
Do racism and sexism look different in the LGBT community
than in the general population?
Jen LaBarbera
George Gramer
Carlos Martinez
Because the LGBT community does not exist in a vacuum, racism and sexism look fairly similar: White men hold power in our community, just as white (straight) men hold the power in the general population. But it looks different, too, because our contexts are different. It looks like mainstream gay publications pondering whether “gay is the new black” and inappropriately equating today’s gay rights movement with the civil rights movements of the ’60s and ’70s. It looks like higher rates of violence against gender-nonconforming people of color than their white counterparts. It looks like brown queers being shown almost exclusively in relationships with white partners on TV and in our own publications. It looks like glorifying masculinity (especially female masculinity) and devaluing femininity (in both cis- women and men). And, let’s be real: it *feels* different. I want my LGBT community to be a safe space. Despite being proven wrong innumerable times, I still expect to be able to safely hold all parts of myself – queer, cis female, brown. When I realize, again, that I have to constantly work to hold all of these parts with my community members (e.g. when I’m told that bringing up racism/sexism in our community is “divisive” and “encourages in-fighting”), that cuts deep. Deeper, somehow, than the racism/ sexism/homophobia I’m used to from the rest of the world. Because despite all evidence to the contrary, I still expect better from a community that understands and experiences oppression, from the community I call home. ]
Racism and sexism are never acceptable or appropriate. The GLBT community bears a double or even triple burden, as whenever any of our members suffer racial or sexual bias, they have the additional burden of societal homophobia. All GLBT folks struggle with a society that is not yet fully inclusive. As a white male, I have seldom suffered racism or sexism, but I did live somewhere in the United States for four years of my life where I was considered an outsider and interloper, and was considered second class. Interestingly, some societies in our world treat GLBT individuals as criminals, outcasts and unworthy members of their society. In some cases, these societies find GLBT individuals worthy of imprisonment, dismemberment or death rather than unconditional love and inclusion. The GLBT community still faces considerable discrimination, but are we not also guilty of discrimination? When we practice vapidity, ageism, elitism, or snobbery in our dating and relationships, are we no better than the bigot or zealot who condemns us? Why do some of us find it difficult to stay in conversation and friendship with people who hold different opinions? When our drama overshadows a person’s worth, there is no winner – only losers. ]
Most people in the LGBT community have experienced some form of discrimination. Despite that, my experience is that I don’t think it does look different. My earliest memory of racism was when I was 4, and it was directed toward my mother. That continued into my school years in various forms. Finally, when I came out in college, I sought refuge with a community I thought I would “fit in” because we probably all had experienced some form of discrimination. Not! To some gay men, I was a fetish. To others, I was a novelty. And to the rest, I was Carlos. I realized at a young age that LGBT spaces weren’t safe spaces for all members of the community. Decades later I have seen great improvements in the LGBT community, as in the general community, which have given me hope. Through the many interactions I have in the LGBT community daily, I still see racism and sexism play out in various forms. However, I do feel that the LGBT community’s consciousness of racism/sexism is building at a quicker speed than the general community. Furthermore, I am optimistic that the LGBT community can help lead this struggle if we all take time to reflect on our actions, to modify our behaviors and to share our learning. ]
George K. Gramer, Jr. is a native Iowan with two degrees from CU-Boulder. After a career in government, he moved to Denver in late 2007.
Carlos Martinez is the chief executive officer of the GLBT Community Center of Colorado.
Jen LaBarbera is a 20-something queer woman in Denver. She is an organizer for reproductive justice and member of One Colorado’s People of Color Caucus.
Interested in becoming one of the voices on Out Front’s PANEL? 10
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Contact Matt Pizzuti by email at matt@outfrontonline.com or call (303) 477.4000 ext. 712 to be considered!
SEPTEMBER 19, 2012 | outfrontonline.com
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the lebanese lesbian
Don’t kill your television ing ghostly gay couple – one member of Here’s something you might not know which is played by Zachary Quinto, who about me: I work in the TV biz for one came out publicly shortly before his stint the biggest global Web media companies. on the show began and whom I’m full-on I’m not going to guest on Modern Family obsessed with. What I like most about it is anytime soon – it’s not like that – but I that Murphy didn’t pander to the straight sure as hell eat, drink, breathe, and sleep world with this story arc. He showed a TV shows; it’s my job. What I do revolves gritty and ugly realness that I commend. around articles and videos for hundreds He showed that a gay couple can be just as of shows that are on the air, were on the dysfunctional and twisted as the thousands air, will be on the air. So I can tell you that of straight couples on TV – a bold move in scripted TV is getting GAY – awesome! a world where gays can feel pressure to be I call it the 21st-century “Modern perfect and present themselves perfectly Family” effect (or “Glee” effect if I’m feeling in order to not scare away those who are fancy). Sure, there was the amazing, 16-time Maya Salam coming to their equal-rights senses. Emmy award-winning Will and Grace, the Then, on the other end of the Ryan groundbreaking Ellen, and the brilliant and addictive gay-friendly Sex and the City. (Although I could Murphy spectrum, we have The New Normal. You have done without Samantha’s lesbian storyline). Gay sto- probably saw the five million ads for it during the rylines go back to The Golden Girls, where my “Lebanese Olympics. Go NBC! I finally watched the sneak-peek pilot lesbian” phrase actually originated. (YouTube it!) And episode, which will have aired by the time this column Three’s Company was basically based on Jack Tripper pre- runs. Did you watch it? Did you like it? I am torn. It’s fun, it’s sweet, and I want to like it, but something was tending he was gay. That premiered in 1977. Having queers on TV is not new, but there has been off. It was kind of a stereotype Petri dish. The gay couple a recent, heavy-handed shift to put the gays front and was divided into the “typical” football-loving, sensible, center on TVs across America. Should we thank Ryan handsome doctor and the fashion- and weight-obsessed, Murphy? If you didn’t watch the first season of American shallow, pretty boy. They want a baby and find a lovely Horror Story, shame on you. It’s a creepy, freaky thrill young woman (with an insanely bigoted mother) who ride of massive proportions. It also featured a terrify- needs money and wants to be their surrogate. Off we go.
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What does it all mean? Why did Murphy decide to start the show in this pretty obvious direction? First of all, it’s on a major network, so the viewers are not as niche as those for FX, AMC, Bravo, and the like. Because of this, it needs to have mass appeal. In our world of Two and a Half Men viewers, maybe it is a brilliant move to play so heavily into stereotypes. But as far as an LGBT-centered series, much of America is probably more comfortable seeing gays in a certain light: the masculine and feminine; the bigot versus the open mind. Perhaps the creators have to take this “let us fit into your hetero box” approach at first in order to eventually find our way out of it. I hope that The New Normal eventually establishes itself as more than one-dimensional. Also, no more fat jokes. It’s really not the common thread that binds us all. But I digress. I often have to remind myself that the general population doesn’t live in my bubble of queer theory. Is it better to push them over the edge with LGBTQ individuals who thumb their noses at the gender binary, or to try and relate in a way that more easily makes sense to our social sense of what’s familiar? Baby steps on network TV might actually be the way go. So brace yourself, fellow queermos! The fall is going to be gay. From The New Normal to Partners and the lesbian marriage on Grey’s Anatomy, it’s all in the family, it seems. Not that there’s anything wrong with that. ] Email Maya at mns.outfront@gmail.com.
@nicgarcia
Finding time to do laundry
After a few moments of tinkering and Organizing one’s life — similarly to laundry — in a never ending cycle of en- exploring my new “Smart” Pad, I configured my settings: a calendar for editotrapment. Sure, you think, “put a few systems in rial, marketing, business and events. In a place and everything will be fine.” You lie flash of hysteria, I even set up a personal calendar, too. I went right into the to-do to yourself, “I’ll be on task.” But the fact of the matter is, unless list. My iPhone, an arms length away, you wash your clothes in the nude, you’re wardrobe is never fully laundered. And charging, was the next step. Click a few every minute you spend attempting to buttons and my world would be synced. I smiled. But that file, categorize or night there wasn’t a schedule your life, is cloud in the sky that another minute miscould sync my life. managed. It turned out, The thing is, I’d have to spend unless you like being another $4.99 for the shun from society, companion app. you have to keep the A dirty, dirty threads clean. The Ponzi scheme. thing is, unless you I hung my like being shun from head and clicked society, you have to “download.” Exkeep a planner — Nic Garcia citement turned to and follow it. obligation. But the As an associate publisher, I wear many different satisfaction — while waning — of getting outfits. On any given day, I’m a salesman, things done would be just as rewarding reporter, enforcer, sympathizer, leader, as the smell of freshly laundered jersey cotton. follower, janitor. Log in. Click. Sync. Click. Wait. OK, so I’m never a janitor. If the worst happened, I could put the Nothing. 3 a.m. I missed my morning news magazine together by myself. This work out and my 9 a.m. meeting. During the next three days, I would exercise would be fueled by cigarettes and coffee. But it wouldn’t be a pretty submit a help ticket, accidentally delete sight. Unsigned contracts would find very important notes I typed up in the their way under copy marked up with app, threaten my friend who worked at red ink. My reporter’s notebooks would Apple with a lawsuit — not really — and be recklessly tossed around. And waiting continued to lose too many hours of sleep. Finally, I received some guidance for me at home: piles of dirty clothes littered with spilled coffee and hot sauce from the app developer. It’s easy the that followed gravity to that new white faceless coward Hanh told me: I needed to sync my Google Calendar with my cotton dress shirt. Luckily, I work with a talented staff that iCal and link iCal with the app. But first allow me a few precious hours to myself, — and I figured this out all on my own my piles and files. Still, I can’t seem to get a — I needed to burn the village to save the children. On both my iPad and iPhone, I handle on time management. I’ve tried everything: hacking a had to remove every single calendar that Moleskin, apps, calendars, Google had ever pre-populated. And in the pre-dawn hours of the next calendar. Operator failure, no doubt. Then, searching in earnest, I discov- Saturday, on the eve of a full moon, my ered a new app that merged my to-dos, life, for the moment, was in order. I took one last look at basket of dirty calendar and notes all in one. I had found salvation and there wasn’t a dirty sock as laundry sitting next to the door, took a gulp of water and went to bed. ] far as the eye could see. I really didn’t have the $9.99 to purchase the app — that money should Reach associate publisher Nic Garcia by have been allocated for a roll of quarters email at nic@outfrontonline.com, call (303) for the aforementioned chore. But I 477.4000 ext. 702, follow him at Facebook. declared it would be a worthy investment. com/bynicgarcia or Twitter @nicgarcia.
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out in colorado
Bear to Make a Difference
With the Matthew Shepard Foundation Oct. 13 Alexander Foundation seeks new
By Kelsey Lindsey Matthew Shepard’s legacy in the LGBT world is still noted as one of the most horrific hate crimes to affect the community. The death of Shepard was followed by an activist reaction, resulting in the passage of the Matthew Shepard and James Byrd Jr. Hate Crimes Prevention Act as well as a rising consciousness to actively seek out hate and overpower it. Founded in 1998, The Matthew Shepard Foundation was specifically created with these intentions in mind, accumulated in their mission statement to “replace hate with understanding, compassion and acceptance” through educational and outreach programs. Hoping to propel this mission even further, the Matthew Shepard Foundation is holding its annual Bear to Make a Difference Gala and Celebrity Teddy Bear Auction on Oct. 13 to honor those in the Denver community that are working towards a brighter tomorrow for LGBT youth. The Bear to Make a Difference Fundraiser was created in 2002 as a silent auction of teddy bears to help benefit the Matthew Shepard Foundation. Raising more than $5,000 that first year, the event has transformed into one of the foundation’s biggest fundraisers, with an attendance of guests from around the world. Past celebrities that have contributed bears to the silent auction include such prominent names as Elton John, Drew Barrymore, Dolly Parton, Barbra Streisand, Jon Stewart, Barry Manilow, Liza Minnelli, Melissa Etheridge, Bette Midler and Lady Gaga. This year’s list of celebrity donors has not yet been revealed, but it promises to be an extensive list of one-of-a-kind bears from a plethora of special names. Following the 5 p.m. silent auction and reception at the Galleria of the Denver Center of Performing Arts Complex, guests will proceed to the Seawell Grand Ballroom for dinner and the presentation of both the 2012 Making a Difference Award and Spirit of Matthew Award. This year’s recipient of the Making a Difference Award
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Volunteer Development Director
Matthew Shepard
The Alexander Foundation, a nonprofit that enhances the lives of LGBT people in Colorado by providing financial assistance to those in need, is looking for a volunteer board member to serve as the Director of Development for the Foundation. Those interested should feel very comfortable raising funds from individuals and corporate donors. This is a two-year commitment to the Foundation, and if interested, please contact Palmer at (303) 669.9382 or online at http://thealexanderfoundation. org. This an all-volunteer organization that exists and operates based on the spirit of giving. The foundation’s mission continues to be building a community of strength and dignity. ]
is Alan Cumming; LGBT activist, actor, writer and author. The Spirit of Matthew Award will be presented to an outstanding youth in the Denver community that encompasses the foundation’s mission in their everyday life. Hosted by Mike Nelson of ABC Channel 7 News and Director and Board President of the Matthew Shepard Foundation Judy Shepard, the evening will be a fulfilling time to give recognition to those who continue to advocate and activate peace for the LGBT community. In remembrance of Matthew Shepard’s hopeful spirit, the Bear to Make a Difference Gala and Celebrity Teddy Bear Auction promises to be a fun and rewarding night out for all. ] The 11th Annual Bear to Make a Difference Gala will be held at 5 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 13, in the Seawall Grand Ballroom. Tickets are $200.
september 19, 2012 | outfrontonline.com
FYI: LAST DAY TO REGISTER TO VOTE IS OCT. 9 [ [ focus ] ]
radioactive vision
The best $4 I ever spent I love a good prank. I’m the queen of mischief and shenanigans, in and out of drag. One of my best ever involved a cock – a rooster, I mean. I was living in my seminarian frat house in college. (Yes, studying to be a Catholic priest. I think we all know how that turned out). One day, as I perused an antique version of Craigslist – a newspaper – an ad selling chickens and roosters caught my eye. A plot immediately hatched in my head. Pun intended, as always. What if I made the one-hour farm drive and picked up a little cockle-doodle-do and hid him in the basement? Then in the middle of the night, release him into a fellow seminarian’s room? Well, not what if, but how soon can I find someone to drive me out to Nuclia Waste old MacDonald’s farm? (I never owned a car in college, instead mooching rides off my friends). It did not take long to find a fellow partner in pranks. Soon enough we were returning to the city with one large cock in a box. (Sung to the tune of Justin Timberlake’s “Dick In A Box.”) I set my alarm for 4 a.m., a time when I knew everyone in the house would be asleep. I crept down to the basement, then past the second floor to the third. I gingerly opened the door to my victim, setting my poultry pal loose to do whatever fowl things he might. I snuck back down to my second floor room and waited for chaos to ensue. It took a good hour, but once the sun hit the horizon, that rooster let loose with some god-awful crowing. I could hear people running around in Steve Boettcher’s room with their heads cut off, then into the hall trying to chase down my elusive bird. Meanwhile Steve was bent on finding out who could have possibly done this. There was a light knocking on my door. I lay still as could be. The door creaked open and Steve bent over me, nudging me awake from my fake slumber. “Did you put a rooster in my room?” “What? A rooster? What are you talking about?” I said in the best sleepy voice I could muster. “Oh, I am so sorry to have woken you up. Never mind.” And just as he was about to leave, I laughed, “Of course I put a rooster in your room. Who else would do that?” “You better get that rooster out of this house, NOW!” What does one do with a rooster at 6 a.m. on a Thursday morning? I phoned a friend. Paul Bello lived in the co-ed dorm on campus. “Hey, you want a rooster to set free on the girls’ floor above you?” “Sure, bring him on over.” As girls stumbled down the hall for their morning showers, they came face to face with a clucking cock and ran shrieking in the other direction. The dorm resident assistants tried to corner the bird, which flew out the second-story window into a large bush beneath the Jesuit priests’ sleeping quarters. For an entire week, my cock’s crowing woke those priests at 5 a.m., and for a week the groundskeepers tried catching that bird. Eventually the cock was caught and now resides in a jar of formaldehyde in the college biology lab. Best four dollars I ever spent on cock. ]
Family Centered Medicine
Serving the GLBT community for over 15 years
Peter Prutch, NP.C, PhD
Primary Healthcare HIV/AIDS Health care & prevention
2121 S Oneida St Ste 248 Denver CO 80224 • (303) 504-0600 familycenteredmedicine.com
Drag queens like to prank each other. Take Nina Montaldo, for example. She knew that Jazzanne Capri was famous for her rendition of Liza Minnelli. So for a month before the NGLTF SummerFest show “Les Girls” hosted by Nicole Summers, Nina began telling everyone SHE was going to do Liza. Jazzane was fit to be tied and whined about it all month. But what was she to do, Nina being her elder and all. Nina took it one step further. She showed up at Casselman’s in a Liza wig and dress. Once backstage, Nina informed everyone that she was not doing Liza and had never planned to. Jazzanne, now wrecked, switched her number to a Liza song. She hit the stage as a brunetted Liza, since she had not brought along any of her Minnelli accoutrements. Bless her heart. You just gotta love a good prank. ] Nuclia Waste can be reached through her website at http://NucliaWaste.com.
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september 19, 2012 | outfrontonline.com
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gal on the move
Take time to exhale
As the “Gal on the Move,” I have a lot of things on my social calendar (Shameless plug: check out my newest blog for Out Front, “Things to Do in Denver When You’re Gay”). I really enjoy spending time with my community. Parties, art openings, fashion shows, burlesque, drag shows, movie premieres, live music; you name it, we’re doing it. Denver is a hot and happening place if you are looking for things to do. And I love doing it all. In fact, my biggest challenge is that I have a tendency to say yes to everything I’m invited to, to the detriment of a realistic schedule. I want to support everyone. I overextend myself. I’m usually not the first to notice it – people around me are. “You look tired. Are you OK?” Well I thought I was until you pointed that out. “You don’t seem your usual bubbly self, is there anything I can do?” Yes, let me take a break! I know it seems as though I am always up and on, but I do have quiet moments where I am enjoying myself, quietly in the corner. Did you come to this event to have a good time? Good, me too! Sometimes a good time is sitting in the back loving you all from my corner perch, crossed arms and a hearty harrumph. I once asked my ex why it seems I can never get an off-day. She said everyone else relies on me being in a good mood, in case they need cheering up. I resented this statement for years. I was incensed that I was some how supposed to always be on in case someone needed me to help them feel better. What about me? When does someone help me feel better? [Yep, whining.] Later a friend said, “You don’t have to be on all of the time. You can say no and take time for yourself.” Oh, so what you’re saying is, I don’t always have to be at the party. I don’t always have to show up to the event. I don’t always have to be on. Who knew? When I am out and about, I am there to bring energy and support to my community. If I show up when I’d really rather be at home on the couch, I need to rally, or it’s my own fault when people notice and show their concern. So, unless I’m there looking for sympathy and support, I can’t blame people when they’re striving to be supportive. That’s the part I was forgetting. When people noticed that my energy was low, they weren’t accusing me, but showing concern. Rather than being defensive I
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september 19, 2012 | outfrontonline.com
[ [ body & mind ] ]
Robyn Vie-Carpenter can show gratitude for care and concern. You know it’s bad when you’re at the grocery store being crabby and a stranger is trying to help you find joy in food. Wait, I’m the one always posting pictures of my perfect biscuits and inviting people over for impromptu dinners because I made a great pot of soup. I am half way through a cookbook on the joy of eating. You’re trying to help me find joy? Now I know I need an attitude adjustment. So I left with one of my oldest friends in tow, and away to the mountains we ran. Meditating at sunrise, staring out at the mountains, watching the sun set over a trout stream, hawks soaring overhead, I finally exhaled. I found my breathing returning to normal. I felt my shoulders drop, the frown leave my forehead and a natural smile began to play at the edges of my lips. And my light began to shine brightly. Oh yeah, I remember what this feels like. I found myself again. This is what came to me. I have to give myself permission to say no. I am the only one that knows when I need to recharge my batteries. If I go out, I only have myself to blame when my energy is low and people notice. I don’t go out without doing something to my hair. I need to make sure I don’t go out without doing something to my attitude. In giving to others you must also remember to take care of yourself. I cannot bring energy to an event without having energy myself. I can only give light when I have filled myself with light. I can give love when I have loved myself. Remember Lovelies, be kind to yourself, pay attention to what your heart and body are telling you. That inner voice saying, “I don’t want to go” is you. Listen, you’ll be glad you did. ] Contact Robyn by email at goddessofjoy1@gmail.com.
beauty
Keep smiling Get those pearly-
whites whiter By Kelsey Lindsey
The world’s fascination with our cousins across the pond seems to be an ever-rising trend. And while posh accents and royal eye-candy may be something for Americans to envy, there will always be one contest in which Americans still triumph – dental care. Keep those choppers healthy and our superiority reigning with these dental practices and tools that will make your teeth shine as bright as the top of Prince William’s head in direct sunlight.
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Luster Premium White Now! Instant White Toothpaste: $8.79 at Walgreens An innovative solution to obtaining glowing white teeth in a brief amount of time, Luster Premium White Now! Toothpaste does exactly what the name promises: instantly whitens teeth after one brush. Containing a revolutionary teeth-whitening ingredient that clings and whitens for about five hours, this toothpaste is ideal for those looking for a quick way to reduce the appearance of yellowness while on a budget.
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Screaming White Teeth 15minute Teeth Whitening: $99 for 15-minute session Located on the 16th Street Mall downtown, Screaming White Teeth promises its clients a fast and reasonable option to obtain naturally white teeth. While they do recommend two to three sessions for maximum results, Screaming White Teeth guarantees teeth two to 10 shades lighter after only one appointment.
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Preventative dental care: Prices vary based on treatment While teeth whitening is one of the most sought after dental procedures on the market, overall dental hygiene is the key to maintaining a full set of teeth for years to come. Top-rated dentists Drs. Brewick and Hatzidakis at Governor’s Park Dental Group offer a full range of services to uphold all their clients’ dental health, from deep teeth cleaning to sealants and fluoride treatments.
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Crest 3D White Intensive Professional Effects Whitestrips: $61.99 at Walgreens For those that are looking for long-term whitening without an appointment, Crest 3D White Professional Effects Whitestrips promises professional results (hence the name) in a matter of days. Designed to be worn for 30-minute increments over a matter of 20 days, teeth stay white for up to 30 days after finishing the treatment.
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Philips Sonicare FlexCare+ Rechargeble Toothbrush: $189.99 at www.philips-store.com Highly rated among the top dental industry professionals, the Philips Sonicare FlexCare+ toothbrush has five different brushing modes, targeting anything from sensitive teeth to gum care. Added perks include a built-in two-minute timer, and an easy-start program that gradually introduces users to the Sonicare experience over 14 uses. ]
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september 19, 2012 | outfrontonline.com
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Thrive
Surviving Breast Cancer
How the Komen Foundation saved my life Photo of Dorothy Marburger
Race for a breast cancer cure The Denver Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure is committed to providing access to breast cancer care for all individuals, regardless of their ability to pay. Our mission is to save lives and end breast cancer forever. Seventy-five percent of net funds raised by Komen Denver stay in Colorado to provide breast cancer screening and treatment to uninsured individuals and the remaining 25 percent funds research. The LGBT population faces more barriers to breast health care than the heterosexual population including lack of LBGT competent providers, fear of coming out to providers and inability to access insurance through a partner. Additionally behaviors, such as binge drinking or not getting annual mammograms, increases one’s risk of being diagnosed or diagnosed at a later stage. To help increase awareness, the Affiliate has a LGBT Committee that focuses on bringing important breast cancer messages to our community, with efforts ranging from doctor education to increasing community outreach and employee engagement.
Interview with survivor Dorothy Marburger Tell us a bit about your personal journey through breast cancer: I like to call my journey “out with the old, in with the new.” I put everything in God’s hands. To have Him to lead and guide me. I knew I had no control over this thing that had invaded my body. So I took it one day at a time. I chose doctors that I trusted and did all I could do to improve my chances of survival. The rest was in God’s hands. My support system of my partner, Gina, and my friends was strong. I met many people along the way that I can now count as friends, also. From day one, Susan G. Komen Foundation stepped in. I never had to worry about how I was going to pay for my medical costs. I also learned that they helped fund many of the foundations that helped me with my everyday living expenses. The freedom from those stresses I will always believe helped in my fight for survival. They were and always will be my “angels in pink.” In 2010, I signed up with my partner to do the Race for the Cure in Denver. On September 27, 2010, I was diagnosed with breast cancer. On October 3, 2010, I walked in my first Race for the Cure. And did so again on October 2, 2011, and will walk again on October 7, 2012. I am now cancer-free as of June 10, 2011. It is a
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joy and privilege to be able to give back in some way to the organization that helped to save my life. From the beginning to the end of my cancer journey, they were there. Thank you, Komen Denver, for all you have done for me. What helped you to never give up hope during your battle to defeat breast cancer? The peace that I felt in my heart that I felt from the Lord. I felt him with me every day, in every decision that I had to make. He walked with me through this life-changing journey. And still does. What was the most important thing you learned during your battle with breast cancer? Nothing is impossible. The number of lives that are affected. And you still can find reasons to laugh, enjoy your life and find strength in others. Tell us about your family’s and friends’ journey with you through breast cancer: We all became one in this battle. The support that I experienced from old and new friends was humbling. What advice would you give to other women? Don’t let the word “cancer” scare you. Stay positive. Be strong. Stare it down. ]
september 19, 2012 | outfrontonline.com
[ [ body & mind ] ]
There are many ways to personally decrease your risk. Know your family health history, get screened, find a doctor with whom you are comfortable asking difficult questions, and help bring information and awareness to those in your life that can benefit from it. Looking for ways to get involved with Komen Denver?
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Join the Race for the Cure on October 7.
Visit the Komen Denver Race for the Cure website to register at www.Komendenver.org/race.
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Become a volunteer. Sign-up for a volunteer training session by contacting Rhianon at RSchuman@komendenver.org. ] For questions on the Komen Foundatio, email info@komendenver.org. To find a Komen grantee that can provide a free mammogram, visit http://komendenver.org.
ON THE SCENE
Fort Collins PrideFest Photos by Nikki Kushner
september 19,, 2012 | outfrontonline.com
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bleed like me
No strings attract Singlehood has its ups and downs. Years ago, when cruisy websites like Manhut first appeared, friends blabbed on about guys they were meeting and made it seem like an easier way to hook up. I joined the free version of Manhunt with a profile staying reasonably true to myself, but in a much sexier way. The pictures were current. My stats were correct. I had everything I needed for some good John Doe style quickie sex. Guys dropped messages here and there. But they often talked the talk without walking the walk to my front door – I didn’t meet them in person. It didn’t bother me since my own flake factor was probably just as high. My 20-something attention span waned until one man, BicepRex, shot me a message one day. He flattered me with compliments while I tried to do the same. I didn’t go for the big muscle types; they usually seemed so arrogant and smug that flirting with them only made me feel desperate and inferior. But this guy hit on me first, eliminating any qualms I had with seeking the super-studs. BicepRex and I exchanged phone numbers and sent texts back and forth to figure out the right moment to meet. He said he could come over after the gym. I was nervous – I’d never hooked up that way. But as planned, Mr. Rex showed up, looking like he had just worked out – in a good way. His arms did his profile’s headline justice, and the photos hadn’t lied. I invited him in. As he peeked around my tiny apartment, I felt awkward, like a schoolboy waiting for his first kiss. I suggested we take three steps to my bedroom. Mr. Rex stopped scanning the room and locked eyes with me. “Nevermind,” he said. “I can’t do this.” At a loss for words, I wasn’t even sure what he meant. I tried asking him what was happening as he opened the door to hurry out. “I’m sorry, dude. Have a good night.” As quickly as he had walked in, BicepRex left me standing alone in the doorway with a blank look on my face. What had happened? Was I too ugly? Did I not have enough money? Did he not like the fact that I had a cat? My brain locked down the ugly factor. Of course – he had the body of a god while I was a pipsqueak cursed with tiny hands. Not since high school had I felt so hideously ugly. All I wanted was some no-strings-
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september 19, 2012 | outfrontonline.com
[ [ body & mind ] ]
Scott McGlothlen attached fun, and now I felt like my strings weren’t even attractive enough for that. I immediately turned to my computer and logged back on Manhunt to find his profile. I analyzed his photos to think of every unattractive thing I could. Sure, he had a good body, but he clearly had juiced up to get those big pectorals and ripped abs. And his face wasn’t that great. He had big ears, and his face was long and weathered from all his time spent in tanning beds. Who was I kidding? I always thought big ears were sexy. I was the pale guy who sat alone in rejection. For weeks I overanalyzed the encounter. After deleting my Manhunt profile, I coaxed friends to help tell me I was good looking and that other men were just dumb. The mirrors in my home became reflections of why I wasn’t good enough. I would stare for long periods to pinpoint all of the unattractive parts of my face. That one moment of rejection brought my self-esteem to a new low. For the next year, I could not muster a feeling of confidence without Mr. Rex’s “nevermind” popping up in my mind. I would never actually know what went through Mr. Rex’s head that night. Perhaps he’d been dating someone just long enough to feel guilty about a hookup. Maybe he’d recently had recently an HIV diagnosis and didn’t know how to navigate a sexy meet-up. Or perhaps it wasn’t about not finding me attractive. Maybe I simply had too-thin skin for rejection. In any case, the one thing I did know for sure was that I could no longer get my sense of self from guys whose screen names underlined their bulging body parts. ] Scott can be reached at bleedlikescott@gmail.com.
FAITH & SPIRIT
A modern interpretation of old propheciess
courage, we can join with other awakened beings to position ourselves to flow Worldwide mass media is showing us that beyond the hard times. humanity has come to a tipping point: We This year’s prophesies are planetary, are creating many more problems than not nationalistic. All the prophecies are we are solving. For every good news story about the end of this period – this “Age of there are two sad news stories. For every Man.” All of the prophecies are about the movie, video game or book about love and old dysfunctional society being purified human triumph, there are three media and a New Age of man beginning. All the sources portraying human violence, death prophecies talk about the commonality of and sexual exploitation. We do not have to all people as mind, spirit, body and nature. be psychic to see what is happening. PesIf you are holistic in your thinking, simism seems realistic if we get caught up then you can see the bigger picture of in the news and pop culture. humans as mind, spirit, body and a It is sad to watch the self-made de- living part of Earth. If you believe this is struction, when we have the techno- a time of re-birth, then death of the old is logical, scientific, ethical, necessary to embrace the creative capacity to create new. If you believe we are a positive future. In a small spiritual beings having a interdependent ecosysphysical manifestation, then tem, the old evolutionary learning to make a positive “For every paradigm “survival of the difference in the lives of fittest” doesn’t work. The your friends and the greater good news new paradigm of conscious community is your reason and personal evolution is to live. If you believe that story there needed to allow for conreality functions on more are two sad structive collaboration. On dimensions and levels than a personal level, survival you can possible imagine, news means honoring and harthen transcending limited monizing with one’s mind, thinking and awakening to stories.” spirit, body and nature. new paradigms is a glorious On a planetary level, it and necessary journey. means accommodating Time is part of physical and honoring the whole social/nature reality, while timelessness is part of spiriinterconnected system of our world. The tual consciousness. Physically, it is ab“Grand Choice” humanity, offered in solutely true that “This, too, shall pass.” all the end-time prophecies, is meant to Metaphysically and spiritually it is absoexpand our empathy to the human con- lutely true “All is one.” The end of time is dition and the needs of the earth. a cross-cultural myth that describes the Almost all end-time predictions have connection between these realities. The not only apocalyptic destruction, but a end of time calls on human consciousway to be saved. It seems like humans ness to prepare and act now to be ready wish for a clearing way of all that is for what is to come. Action and love rotten, corrupt and broken in society. dispels fear of the unknown. If and when We want to have a new start, where we embrace holistic consciousness, we we can do it right this time. Maybe one approach the unknown future with emreligion or cultural prophecy is right in powered freedom and peace of soul. ] timing and specifics. Time will tell. There are tipping points in history Shanti Toll is the founder of the when big shifts happen. Those who have Celebration Metaphysical Fairs and consciously prepared themselves spiritu- majored in religious thought at the ally and physically will survive and even University of Pennsylvania and received prosper. They will be more able to adapt, a Master’s degree in Agency Counseling. accept and move beyond the trials and After a 20-year career as a public school tribulations of the purification. Working teacher, Toll now spends his time exploring on self-purification now before the crisis the subconscious through hypnosis. appears will make it easier later. Using More info online at http://celebration intuition, new science/technology and network.net. By Shanti Toll
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september 19, 2012 | outfrontonline.com
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Cover Story
A continued community challenge: Toward a better way of dealing with race By Matthew Pizzuti
Last December, a white blogger’s commentary on Forbes.com rose to a sort of Internet infamy. “If I Were a Poor Black Kid,” author Gene Marks titled his 1,500word prescription for young people of color growing up in poverty in West Philadelphia. 22
“I would first and most importantly work to make sure I got the best grades possible,” Marks explained. “I would use the technology available to me as a student” – such as public or school library computers – “I would use the Internet to research [magnet and charter] schools so I could find out how I could be admitted.” The article went on to advise poor black kids on “becoming an expert at Google Scholar,” learning computer science, getting a part-time job and going to college, after which, Marks wrote, West Philadelphia’s youth would be easy hires for “a business owner like me.” For much of modern American history, Marks’ comments would more likely have been kitchen table conversation in an all-white household, to
september 19, 2012 | outfrontonline.com
[ [ cover story ] ]
an audience of two or three – met with a nod and smile then a bite of green bean casserole. But in the digital age, they reached a wide audience: many who had more personal experiences with Marks’ subject matter than he, and perceived a glib simplicity – and an all-too-familiar condescension – in Marks’ unsolicited advice. It sparked a thunder of overwhelmingly critical replies; “I’m not sure a more tone-deaf sentence has ever appeared in Forbes,” wrote Cord Jefferson, senor editor at Good. A day later, The Atlantic’s senior editor, black author and blogger Ta-Nehisi Coates, responded to Marks’ piece in his essay, “A Muscular Empathy.” Coates wrote, “When I read this piece I was immediately called back, as I so often am, to my days at Howard and the courses I took looking at slavery.
to hook up with someone and you’re Whenever we discussed the back-breaking condi- scious, so you have to make a confocusing on skin color, that’s an act tions, the labor, the sale of family members, etc., scious effort to overcome it.” of racism. You’re not doing it with But unconscious or not, the impact there was always someone who asserted, roughly, ‘I my skin. You’re doing it with me as is real. couldn’t been no slave. They’d a had to kill me!’” a person.” “By and large the racism is no dif“… More commonly you get people presiding from And just as the digital age enabled on high insisting that if they had lived in the antebel- ferent than in the larger community,” broader conversations about race Herod said. “As a person of color it lum South, they would have freed all of their slaves.” that were once voiced in a private Marks’ editorial, followed by Coates’ reply, first can be hard to find your space, and setting, technology has exposed a begs and then suggests an answer to an existential when you find prejudice coming “There’s an more callous and explicit racism question – who would you be if you weren’t you? from both sides – homophobia from through the safe anonymity of web In this context of shared experiences of community the African-American community expectation profiles. and race, Coates was more committed to realism: If and racism from the LGBT commu“No blacks or Asians” – a familiar you lived somebody else’s life – presumably knowing nity – it’s magnified.” that if you’re phrase in one variation or another – “Sometimes if you’re dealing with nothing of your current one – you’d probably fall in the LGBT appears regularly on profiles on gay within the confines of what people in that time and a white straight person, it’s hard to men’s networking or hookup sites or community are and do. What makes you so bold to figure out if they’re being hateful to community and mobile apps like Grindr. you because you’re gay or because think you’d do anything else? There’s widespread debate about “It is comforting to believe that we, through our you’re black,” Herod said. And then dealing with racial sexual “preferences” – whether sheer will, could transcend these bindings,” Coates within the LGBT community, LGBT the one expressing them bears some wrote – “to believe that if we were slaves, our in- people of color “just don’t have homophobia, responsibility over semi-conscious, domitable courage would have made us Freder- anywhere to go. The space is hard seemingly uncontrollable attractions – ick Douglass, or if we were slave masters, our keen to find, and you just feel like you’re that means but they are a bit too common, too pressed in so many morality would have made us Bobby you’re not convergent in favoring white men or ways, you just don’t Carter. We flatter ourselves, not out lighter skin or other historically-privwant to deal with of malice, but out of instinct.” going to be ileged groups, and often voiced a bit racist gay people Unlike Carter – a Virginia plantoo dismissively, to avoid suspicion too. It can feel racist tation owner who, after a religious racist or that broader issues play a role. when people of color conversion, released more than 500 “People’s attractions are somearen’t portrayed,” slaves in the 1790s – the vast majority sexist. But if thing informed in part by what you Herod said, “or when of white slave holders did not release grew up with, so perhaps what we they want to be part their black slaves. Overwhelmingly, you’re not “People term as ‘preferences’ are just inof the conversation they adopted a moral justification grained racism, that we’ve been and they’re shut for their world – thought of their atworking on who are brought up that way,” said Mike Nidown.” titudes and choices as being not opyour own racism marginalized yompong, a gay management conTeddy Campos, pression or hatred but a reflection of sultant and former member of the 22, who identifies as natural order – a paradigm they held tend to think and sexism, it’s Denver GLBT commission. Chicano and queer, so dearly that they could not distinthey don’t “If you look across the world, offered examples of guish their white supremacist belief not going to there’s an idealization of white or the challenges on system from objective observation. marginalize Caucasian features, over, say, Asian both personal instiThroughout history, racists have go away just other people. features. Sharper lines, lighter color tutional levels. failed to see themselves as such. By of the skin – what the general public “Racism is somethat same measure, how can anyone because you’re It’s a hard subject, seems to think are beautiful are thing I deal with evbe confident she or he is free of prejand people who queer.” Caucasian models. Or even Asian erywhere,” Campos udice today? models with more Caucasian-looksaid, “because my Coates wrote, “It’s all fine and good aren’t open to – Sandhya Luther ing features,” said Niyompong, who color is the first thing to declare that you would have freed their privilege just people see about me. is Thai. “And if you look across the your slaves. But it’s much more interglobe, it’s what’s on TV, what’s on the Certain organizaesting to assume that you wouldn’t aren’t going to be Internet – it’s the Western European tions don’t want to have and then ask, ‘Why?’” open to it, period. influence. That infiltrates other talk about it at an inAligning with a broader anti-racist cultures and makes people want to adapt and look stitutional level, and I see that as an movement, many people of color in I think 90 example of a kind of racism in itself.” more like that picture.” the LGBT community point out the percent of the But mention of the idea that the LGBT community “To be honest, at least here in trickiness of their work: Racism can still has hang-ups about race is frequently met with Denver, I’ve struggled to fit in,” be subtle, even invisible, to all but racism and Campos continued. “The gay scene resistance, dismissiveness or even retaliation. those who it’s directed at – and somesexism that Some people of color who spoke to Out Front were is predominantly white and doesn’t times even to them. Racism can be reluctant to describe a personal encounter with prejuallow much space for people of color. in the attitudes of partners, acquainhappens We have ‘Latin Nights’ at certain bars dice within the LGBT community or to even mention a tances and friends. It can be in people within our and clubs – it’s like they realize that specific observation that racism exists, out of concern of your own race. The challenge of most of the time they’re only catering about being labeled “that” kind of person, accused of drawing awareness to racism where community is to white folks. It’s cool because it playing the victim or being “angry” – opting instead it exists within the LGBT community subconscious, allows a space for us, but I’d like to to keep themselves entirely unquoted and off-theitself is steep. “People who are marginalized so you have to make see more Latin or black owned gay record. Some said there could be professional consequences because they’d inevitably be criticizing some bars.” tend to think they don’t marginala conscious effort When it comes to the most intimate of those they work with. ize other people,” said Leslie Herod, “The racism and sexism that exists in the maininteractions – dating or sex – race can a Denver community activist and to overcome it.” make things more complicated in stream culture definitely exists in the LGBT comblack lesbian. “It’s a hard subject, munity, too,” Niyompong said. “It’s not as widely more than one way. and people who aren’t open to their – Leslie Herod “Exotification is a very big thing in accepted – the LGBT identity is supposed to be open privilege just aren’t going to be open the community – choosing someone and inclusive, so it goes against the very identity of to it, period. I think 90 percent of just because of their skin color,” the LGBT community to acknowledge it.” the racism and sexism that happens Campos said. “When you’re trying within our community is subconContinued on page 35
[ [ cover story ] ]
september 19, 2012 | outfrontonline.com
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FOOD FOR THOUGHT
Reinventing the taco at Margs
By Jeff Steen Remember when Wolfgang Puck took the pizza and made it, well, everything? Suddenly there were no limits: caviar, foie gras, salad, pâté, hamburgers – you name it topped his signature bubbly crusts. Sure, the Italians may have scoffed, but it was truly an ingenious spin on an age-old classic. Which begs the question: What else in our culinary repertoire can be creatively reinvented? Ah, yes – the taco. The taco is an art form: A simple creation nonetheless marked by immense creativity. Or at least it should be. In an era when Taco Bell slop-and-go varieties are what we know, shouldn’t it excite us to hear there are more inventive takes on the scene? Enter Margs – the taco bar nestled in Cherry Creek North. Sporting the lime green theme we know so well from its namesake restaurant in Larimer Square, Marg’s menu is a paean to the global possibilities of a taco. For instance, have you ever had chicken vindaloo wrapped in a tortilla? How about curry-spiked Moroccan slaw? No doubt this new perspective on the tried-and-true taco stirs the appetite, but I’m not entirely convinced the intrigue will last without some regular reinvention. For example, there’s not much composition to the tacos – a loose wrap job spiked with a toothpick. Yes, it’s honest “finger food,” but should there be more of a presentation? Plus, the attention to the balance of flavors isn’t always there; sometimes a bit too much curry or spice takes away from the deft handling of world flavors. And if there’s one thing that stunts the creativity, it’s the repetitious use of cabbage. Whether or not it seems appropriate for a specific
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taco, it appears in almost every one. Slaw has its place, no doubt, but everywhere? Still, there’s more to please the palate than there is to turn it sour. The Margs Taco Barco, for example, takes diners on a delicious tour of world flavors, from Caprese to Caribbean jerk and back across the gulf to the timeless Philly cheesesteak. The best part about the sampling platter is the adventure in eating – a refreshing dimension to dining that leaves you wondering what might be next. My recommendation: Get the three-taco platter and refill as needed. Enjoy with a (you guessed it) ice cold margarita. For the see-and-be-seen crowd, Margs is the place to nest. It’s not quite a gay hangout, but the people-watching is second to none. An open, expansive patio makes sunshine dining a must, while a bar straddling the dining room and the outdoors gives the space an airy feel. It helps in all of the hustle and bustle that the serving staff is adorable – or at least they were the weekend I stopped by. Nothing wrong with a little eye candy for dessert, right? Speaking of – save room for some churros to cap the meal in sweet style. Not everyone is a fan of fried, doughy goodness, but – oh, who are we kidding? Yes, everyone is a fan of fried, doughy goodness. Relish it. At the end of the day, I can say I’d make the trek back for the entire package Margs has to offer: people, food, ambience. I’m just eagerly waiting for the day when even more inventive, far-flung flavors appear neatly wrapped in a tortilla next to my salty-sweet margarita—dished up, of course, by the world’s cutest server. ] Margs Taco Bistro is located at 200 Fillmore St. in Cherry Creek North. Online at http://margstacobistro.com.
september 19, 2012 | outfrontonline.com
Little Dragon 1305 Krameria Street, G Denver CO., 80220 • 303-322-2128 http://littledragondenver.com
Homemade Taco Seasoning If you’re craving a homemade taco, don’t pretend like bringing home a Taco Bell gordita counts as “homemade.” This is something you can do yourself, and it starts with your very own taco seasoning. Here’s a recipe to get you started, though feel free to tweak as desired. Sauté some ground beef (or turkey) with this blend and dish it up with tomatoes, lettuce, cheese—the sky’s the limit.
Ingredients In a bowl, combine: - 1 TBS minced dried onions - 2 TSP chili powder - 1 TSP garlic powder - 1 TSP ground cumin - 1 TSP cayenne pepper - 1TSP paprika - 1 TSP salt Stir to blend
Free Naughty Buddha Salad or Crab Cheese Wontons with purchase of $35 or more. Mention Out Front.
Solera 5410 East Colfax Avenue Denver CO., 80220 http://solerarestaurantdenver.com
Additions/Substitutions - Curry powder - Coriander (for a touch of sweetness) - Turmeric - Black pepper - Thyme - Oregano - Caraway - Allspice, and/or nutmeg
[ [ Social ] ]
Avenue Grill 630 East 17th Avenue Denver CO., 80203 http://avenuegrill.com
september 19, 2012 | outfrontonline.com
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HIGH SOCIETY
Denver Art Museum exhibit recalls the creative bio of
Vincent Van Gogh By Josiah Hesse
“As a painter, I will never amount to anything important. I am absolutely sure of it,” wrote the man who would become the most celebrated painter in modern history. The untamed life of Vincent van Gogh – with its madness, romance, malnourishment and incessant inspiration – practically created the stereotype of the starving artist. Paintings like The Starry Night and Wheatfield with Crows challenged both the eye and the mind, with influence beyond the art world. Van Gogh’s originals now sell for millions, yet at the time of their creation, van Gogh couldn’t give them away. He lived on bread, coffee and absinthe, starving and slowly going mad from lead poisoning and possibly epilepsy. These are things people remember first about the Dutch painter, the man who once cut off his ear as a gift to a prostitute. While his work would strongly guide the hand of 20th century painting, rarely do people take the time to step away from the image of the crazed artist, slowly committing suicide in the name of inspiration, and take a sober look at the calm, focused progenitor beneath the myth. For those interested in a comprehensive look at the man’s work, check out the Denver Art Museum’s Becoming Van Gogh exhibit, open Oct. 21 through Jan. 20. “Even if you’re familiar with his work, this exhibit really gives a different view of him,” Denver Art Museum communications associate Tara Moberly said. “You get to see him as not just the crazy artist, but the committed, rational person who systematically taught himself the craft that he wanted to learn.” Showing more than 70 van Gogh paintings along with works by various artists like Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec and Camille Pisarro, who were early influences on van Gogh’s work, Becoming
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Sleeping Beauty
Photo: Vincent van Gogh, Self-Portrait with Straw Hat Van Gogh Museum Amsterdam (Vincent van Gogh Foundation) Van Gogh aims to present visitors with a look at van Gogh’s creative journey – one that begins with his inspiration, then his slowly climbing mountain of skill, ability and understanding, until the artist eventually descended upon genius. “You get see how he was pulling in from all these different influences,” Moberly said. “Especially with color. His early sketches were very dark, when he was working with these peasants in the Netherlands, who were so downtrodden. And then you see him move forward, going to Paris and hanging out with all these other artists, and then it’s like here’s the guy we know.’” “He really did live a life largely on his own,” Moberly continued. “So his ability to be known by a lot
of people. That was really a different time and place. Today there are so many avenues for an artist to get his work out there – you can launch a viral video, and overnight, 50 million people know who you are. Van Gogh was mostly self-taught, so he rarely even worked with other people. Eventually in Paris he knew other people, but his path was mostly on his own. And he was only painting for 10 years.” ] Pulling from more than 60 public and private collections from around the world, “Becoming Van Gogh’ is a one-time exhibit available only in Denver. The Denver Art Museum is located at 100 West 14th Avenue Parkway. For more information visit http://denverartmuseum.com.
October 5-21 Ellie Caulkins Opera House 1101 13th Street Denver CO., 80204 More info: http://coloradoballet.org (303) 893-4100
Top Chef Mile High
September 29 Douglas County Libraries Present: Top Chef Mile High More info: http://douglascountylibraries.org
Photo: The Starry Night The Museum of Modern Art, New York.
september 19, 2012 | outfrontonline.com
[ [ Social ] ]
For more information on how to get your event listed, please call 303-477-4000
on the scene with charles
One Coloradoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Ally Awards
(more photos on 32)
Photos by Charles Broshous
september 19,, 2012 | outfrontonline.com
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entertainment
Nina Flowers is no stranger to the entertainment arena in Denver. As a drag favorite, she enchants the audience with her sass, signature style and knack for pleasing a crowd. Flowers was on the first cast of Logo’s hit series RuPaul’s Drag Race and surprised the nation with her charm, exceptional makeup skills and androgynous interpretation of drag. After the show, Flowers was called back as a fan favorite and will be on the new offshoot, RuPaul’s All Stars. Out Front caught up with the busy drag diva to talk about style, television and her guilty pleasure.
You’re working with girls from four seasons. Who were you most excited to work with? All of them, all of these girls have worked really hard to leave their mark on the culture of Drag. Different styles, personalities, agendas. But what made it really special is that we all know each other. Definitely was very excited to see my sisters Tammie Brown, Yara Sofia, Latrice Royale.
What made you want to be on RuPaul’s Drag Race in the beginning? When I started doing drag, I was determined to make it all the way to the top. Always looking for that special opportunity to show my point of view as an artist. When I first heard about Drag Race I knew this was my shot.
Do you have any backstage rituals? I always pray. I was born and raised under Catholic beliefs. I’m not a fanatic, but I do believe in a higher power. Life has always provided for me, so I must be doing something right.
Why do you think you are a fan favorite? I think my personality took me there. Behind the makeup and the magic I’m still a humble person. A lot of people love my style, but for the ones who aren’t convinced, once they get to know me, they understand where all the love comes from.
You have a signature style. Who are some of your most recent inspirations? I get inspired by everything I experience. I’m always thinking for a way to translate these experiences into my art, thinking out of the box. I could never go out without wearing a corset and eyelashes!
What’s different about RuPaul All Stars from the original show? Everyone in it has already experience in Drag Race. So, we all have a better understanding on how to play the game. You can never really know all the details by just watching it on TV. Believe me, there’s a whole lot of pressure and situations the viewers never get to see.
Photo by Mathu Andersen
Nina Flowers to appear on RuPaul’s All Stars TV series
Guilty pleasure? Eating chocolates at night, in bed! Oh lord, calories, calories, calories. ]
LGBT Bar Listings Denver Aqua Lounge • 1417 Krameria St. (720) 287.0584 • http://aqualoungedenver.com Covered patio, live entertainment, trivia, poker, karaoke, $2.50 happy hour M-F Barker Lounge • 475 Santa Fe Dr. (303) 778.0545 Patio, old Hollywood themed, neighborhood bar Black Crown Lounge • 1446 S. Broadway (720) 353.4701 • http://blackcrownlounge.com Patio, dartboards, game room, poker, piano lounge bLush • 1526 E. Colfax Ave. (303) 484.8548 • http:/blushbardenver.com Bar, coffee, lounge, pool Boyztown • 117 Broadway (303) 722.7373 • http://boyztowndenver.com Male strippers Broadways • 1027 Broadway (303) 623.0700 • http://broadwaysdenver.com Neighborhood sports bar, weekend beer busts, BINGO, trivia, outdoor patio
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Charlie’s • 900 E Colfax Ave. (303) 839.8890 • http://charliesdenver.com Western and pop dance club, weekend beer busts, live music
Hamburger Mary’s • 700 E 17th Ave. (303) 832.1333 • http://hamburgermarys.com/denver Great food, big patio, weekend brunch, big screen TV’s, mixed crowd
Club M • 700 E 17th Ave. (303) 832.1333 • http://hamburgermarys.com/denver Karaoke, BINGO, trivia, drag, live DJ bar
Lannie’s Clocktower Cabaret • 1601 Arapahoe St. (303) 293.0075 • http://lannies.com Burlesque, comedy shows, appetizers, desserts
Compound • 145 N Broadway (303) 722.7977 • http://compounddenver.com Neighborhood dance bar with edge, weekend beer bust
Tracks • 3500 Walnut St. (303) 863.7326 • http://tracksdenver.com LGBT dance club, BAD first Fridays, DJ, live performers
Decatur St. Grill • 800 Decatur St. (303) 825.4521 • http://decaturbar.wordpress.com Pool table, poker, smoking patio, women
The Bar • 554 S. Broadway Ave. (303) 733.0122 • http://itsthebar.com Burlesque, bingo, dance parties and comedy
Denver Eagle • 3600 Blake St. (303) 291.0250 • http://theeaglebar.com Leather, fetish, darts, heavy pours
Wrangler • 1700 Logan St. (303) 837.1075 • http://denverwrangler.com Men’s bar, patio, leather Fridays, pool tables, beer bust, darts, “Sweet Dance”
Eden • 3090 Downing St. (303) 832-5482 • http://edendenver.com Women’s lounge, patio, healthy bar food, vegetarian, NOW networking group El Potrero • 320 S Birch St. (303) 388.8889 • http://elpotrerodenver.com Mexican restaurant, patio, club, live shows
september 19, 2012 | outfrontonline.com
X Bar • 629 E Colfax Ave. (303) 832.2687 • http://xbardenver.com LGBT bar, karaoke, Drag Queen brunch, BINGO, DJ, beer bust, patio, food
Fort Collins
Choice City Shots • 124 LaPorte St. (970) 221.4333 • http://choicecityshots.com Mixed crowd, karaoke, poker, DJ, dancin’
Pueblo
Pirate’s Cove • 105 Central Plaza (719) 543.2683 • http://myspace.com/ piratescove1, Local bar, mixed crowd
CO. Springs
Bubbles Nightclub • 1010 E Fillmore Ave. (719) 473.0177 • http://bubblescos.com LGBT nightclub, DRAG WORLD, karaoke, poker, big screen TVs
Club Q • 3430 N Academy Blvd. (719) 570.1429 • http://clubqonline.com 18 and up, Military appreciation night, drag show, pool, darts, beer pong, ladies night The Underground • 110 N Nevada Ave. (719) 578.7771 http://underground bars.com, Pub style, BINGO, poker, karaoke, food, beer bust
[ [ Social ] ]
local EVENTs
Photo by Charles Broshous
Exile Fetish Ball brought community together, raised $8,000 for LGBT nonprofits By Brent Heinze More than 800 people descended on Tracks for the Exile Fetish Ball Aug. 24. It welcomed participants regardless of gender, sexual orientation or interest in kinky behaviors to come together in celebration of many forms of sexual expression that goes far beyond missionary position. Performers demonstrated the artistry of rope bondage, burlesque, suspensions of people that defied gravity, aerial erotica and many other acts. Artists, dancers, stylists and musicians were invited to enhance the event. It pulled together a diverse composition of our Colorado population including representation from groups including leather guys, furry bears, kinky women, goths, punks, gender-neutral and fluid individuals, gay, straight, pan, and a variety of people that defy inclusion in any single group. It was also an event that encouraged people to have an evening of enjoyment and entertainment together. Not only did the event push some boundaries as far as presentations of kinky behaviors, but it challenged people to interact with groups that they may have not been familiar with. Many gay men historically enjoy the company of other gay men with an occasional sprinkling of fabulous women. And stereotypically, straight men generally donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t party with gay guys. At this event, everyone stood alongside each other enjoying the energy and the celebration of sexuality in its various forms. There was plenty of performance voyeurism to watch, but participants were invited to try some of these activi-
ties if they were curious about the sensations. All presenters were selected based on their ability to put on an amazing show, but also a willingness and skill to educate folks in the community. This event provided an arena for individuals to explore their interests in a safe and affirming environment where they were not going to be judged. Many were challenged to push their limits and were encouraged to try something new.Although Exile was a fundraiser by design, participants were given a show that felt more like Cirque de Fetish. It endeavored to be visually striking and provocative, but also educational, inviting and fun. It truly was an event put on for our community by members of our community. It celebrated many forms of sexuality, but focused on various aspects of kinky behaviors that allowed people to experience and participate if they hadnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t had the opportunity or confidence to try up until this night. None of the presenters, event staff or volunteers received compensation for their contributions and donated a cover charge in addition to their time and talent. All profits from this event went directly to nonprofit beneficiaries in support of their efforts in advocating for LGBTQ and sex-positive communities. Around $8,000 was distributed to nonprofits Leather Magick, Rainbow Alley, Rocky Mountain Leather Alliance, Denver boys of Leather, Center for Sex Positive Culture and National Coalition for Sexual Freedom. ] Look for more events coming up from the Exile Fetish Ball team. Join their groups on Facebook and FetLife.
[ [ Social ] ]
september 19, 2012 | outfrontonline.com
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distribution
Out Front
centrally located
distribution spots Aqua Lounge – 1417 Krameria St.
Hamburger Mary’s – 708 E. 17th Ave.
Barker Lounge – 475 Santa Fe Dr.
Heaven Sent Me – 116 S. Broadway
Barracuda’s Mexican Restaurant 1076 Ogden St.
Independent Records 937 E. Colfax Ave.
Benny’s Mexican Restaurant 7th and Grant
Jelly Café – 600 E. 13th Ave.
bLush Coffee, Bar & Lounge 1526 E. Colfax Ave. Boyztown – 117 Broadway Broadway’s Bar – 1027 Broadway Capitol Heights Pharmacy 1200 Madison Capitol Hill Community Center 1290 Williams St. Capitol Hill Liquor – 9th and Corona Center for Spiritual Living 1420 Ogden St. Charlie’s – 900 E. Colfax Ave. Crystal’s Book Store 2750 S. Parker Rd. Colorado Anti-Violence Program 304 Elati St. Colorado Pharmacy 1245 E. Colfax Ave. Compound – 145 Broadway Corona Laundry – 847 Corona St. Crypt – 131 Broadway Dazbog Coffee – 9th and Downing Dazbog Coffee – 1200 Clayton St. Denver ELEMENT 655 Broadway #425 Denver FilmCenter 2510 E. Colfax Ave. Denver Swim Club 6923 E. Colfax Ave. Earl of Sandwich – 1431 Ogden St. Fascinations 2680 S. Havana St., suite G Floyd’s Barber Shop 11th and Broadway
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september 19, 2012 | outfrontonline.com
Joy Wine – 1302 E. 6th Ave. King Soopers – 9th and Downing St. Kitty’s – 735 E. Colfax Ave. Las Margaritas – 17th and Downing Le Bakery Sensual – 300 E. 6th Ave. Le Central Restaurant – 12 E. 8th Ave. Lime Express – 730 E. 6th Ave. Little Dragon Chinese 1305 Krameria St. Lowry Liquors – 200 Quebec St. Matrix Fitness & Spa – 925 Lincoln St. Metropolitan Community Church 10th and Clarkson St. Nature’s Cure III – 1500 E. Colfax Ave. Our Savior Lutheran Church 9th and Emerson St. Pete’s Kitchen – 1962 E. Colfax Ave. Racine’s Restaurant – 6th and Grant R&R Bar & Lounge 4958 E. Colfax Ave. Secrets – 2280 S. Quebec St. Sexy Pizza – 1018 E. 11th Ave. Soul Haus Boutique 1225 E. 17th Ave. Studio Lites – 333 Broadway Tattered Cover Bookstore 2526 E. Colfax Ave. The Bar – 554 S. Broadway The Center – 1301 E. Colfax Ave. Timothy D’s Salon 5500 E. Yale Ave. #400 Tony’s Market – 950 Broadway Videotique – 1205 E. 9th Ave.
Gidgets Groom – 1083 South Pearl St.
Village Antiques – 827 Corona St.
Golden Triangle Wine 1147 Broadway
Waterworks Car Wash 276 Broadway
[ [ Social ] ]
Summerfest: Dance for change at Aqua Lounge Pornstar Pool Party
[ [ Social ] ]
september 19, 2012 | outfrontonline.com
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On the scene with charles
ask a slut
One Colorado’s Ally Awards
The genie is OUT
Franks and b
and plenty of specia
Sassy Squatch
Winnie Bego
Zoey Diddim
Diane Tolickya
Molotovia Cocktail
Rolonda Flor
Juana Mann
Bea Dazzle
Eden Cox
Freeda Fondle
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september 19, 2012 | outfrontonline.com
[ [ Social ] ]
Dear Denver Cycle Sluts, Last week I ended up having sex with my best friend. At least he used to be my best going to b Dear Cycle Sluts, friend – we haven’t talked as long as I am thinking about trying drag but I don't know where since. Did I mess up? I defi- vored Cris Sassy: I d to begin. What do you suggest nitely don’t want as the starting point?to lose our what foo friendship, I don’t Signed, "Wigs,but Dresses andknow sounds of Shoes, Oh My!" how to put the genie back in going to e Winnie: the that mean Zoeybottle. Diddim:Does Take lessons. Watch sausage a the classic movies like Some Like it Eden: Stic we should be boyfriends? Hot, Tootsie, Pricilla Queen of the M&M's. T – “Friends or benefits?” Desert and Mame. Follow the side- nice and h
kicks/bitchy parts then emulate that. Diane: Cu JuanaDiddim: Mann: To Start with heels. If the brave o Zoey “put the genie you can't work a goodyou heelfirst you get are a waterme back in the bottle” doomed to failure. Nothing worse him drunk and then use lots of talking abo Rolonda: than hearing “Queen Down!” lube. Friends WITH benefits! Winnie Bego: Come to Slut bingo plenty of s Freeda: and see how the real ones do it. Freeda Hell, you’re Diane Fondle: Tolickya: Find a sugar when? screwed. daddy and break the bank, honey! Bea: I gue It's way too expensive to look this the two g orgy I am damn cheap. Winnie Bego: Guess the nookie Molotovia Cocktail: find but thatifait’s just plenty wasn’t good. I’d try yaI out, favorite helps. call I only at spermicide bad, I’mstore not gonna yashop either. the best. Le Mart du K, Jacques Pen nay, and my all time favorite is Le Dear Cyc Diane Tolickya: No, it just means Why are Bon Will. that Now strive Bea you’re Dazzle:a whore. Well, speaking for intrigued harder to become a Slut. myself, I started on my back, and drag sho then moved up to my knees. I have Signed, " had manyFlor: satisfied in my Rolonda Youcustomers know you’re Juana: He pumps. a whore when you have to start Rolonda Flor: Big titties and big fu*king your friends cause you ran Zoey: It m hair of areoptions the ultimate accessories. out in your city. Atta girl! their subu Eden Cox: My suggestion is to go are other fr dumpster diving honey. That's attention Molotovia Cocktail: Oh Precious, where you can find the best jewelry! bigoted gr never, never, never sleep with Freeda Fondle: You can start by soap box? someone you know. Now he’s Freeda: taking me shopping. an ex that you will just have Sassy Squatch: Maybe start to at fabulous! Winnie: C Charlie's? “hook up with” for an ex-within a dress! benefits Booty Call. Diane: It's Dear Cycle Sluts, shiny! Some friends and I are planBea Dazzle: You’re beyond boyRolonda: ning a camping trip where we friends. My husband and I have Molotovi will be really roughing it. I am been together forfood yearsfor and haven’t with us in charge of the the had sex that wasn’t awkward. weekend. I'm sure an orgy is in groped an hope that the works for that weekend so Bea: Well what Cox: do you suggest for the Eden I don’t think I have menu? any friends that I haven’t slept ference b Signed, "Chefdon’t Boys-are-whee" with. Please tell me this is is a six-p and str8s your first? Zoey: The menu I suggest is the Eden: We number for room service. My to get be Sassy Squatch: Oh, it" Poodle! Time to And the m idea of "roughing is walking start looking for a new BFF! you are secret down the hall to get my own If ice. haven’t talked since I AM a Diva after all. you resized ting to we his friendshipDepending ring, you probably Molotovia: on the Sassy: B orgy menu foodamenu should won’t untilthe he has dry spell and orous and rock a dre NOT afford include can’t theasparagus bathhouse.(PEE] you if you pee on them). And NO most real w Mexican, refried are a no go if On the Web at http://denvercycle On the We they are re-RUNS. sluts.net. Keep questions coming to Juana: Sounds like you know what cyclesluts AskASlut@gmail.com. your main course for the weekend is coming to
september 19, 2012 | outfrontonline.com
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SPORTS
The DGLFFL on the event …
“The Denver Gay & Lesbian Flag Football League emphasizes camaraderie, friendship and community building through healthy athletic competition. It is this incredible passion, energy and enthusiasm fostered through the local league that will contribute largely to the Denver Gay Bowl’s success. At Gay Bowl XII, the rest of the nation will see the results of how Denver fosters our ‘community building community’ theme firsthand.”
How did Denver get chosen to be the host city this year?
GAY BOWL 2012
gets crowds rearing for field action: This year’s tournament is one scrimmage you won’t want to miss The National Gay Bowl XXI is being hosted by the Mile High City for the first time, and Denverites are gearing up for a weekend of athleticism, competition and community camaraderie. This annual flag-football championship tournament demonstrates the ways in which a sports league can positively affect the LGBT community with added confidence and healthy competition. With 40 teams and more than
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600 players, the Denver Gay Bowl is expected to be the largest Gay Bowl yet. The Denver Gay and Lesbian Flag Football League, which was founded in 2008, has quickly become one of the largest gay and lesbian flag football leagues in the United States and continues to be the only league that is almost evenly co-ed. There is no doubt that Denver has a thriving and active LGBT community. We couldn’t be more excited. ]
september 19, 2012 | outfrontonline.com
[ [ Social ] ]
For the 12th annual National Gay Bowl, Denver was chosen because of the beautiful September weather, gorgeous scenery, relaxed atmosphere and healthy and friendly local community. Also, the access to Downtown Denver and close proximity to LGBT-welcoming neighborhoods and businesses demonstrates the motto of the Gay Bowl.
DETAILS…
When: September 21 through September 23 Where: Dick’s Sporting Goods Park (600 Victory Way, Commerce City, 80022) Cost: Free! More info: www.gaybowl2012.com. Who organized the event: The Denver Gay Bowl Committee, a nonproft with roots in the Denver Gay & Lesbian Flag Football Leauge.
FYI
This tournament features the first ever women’s division! So ladies, come on out and show your support for female athleticism!
The entire weekend is FREE! Also, check out the NO-COVER after-parties:
>> Men’s Party: 9 p.m. – Friday, Sept. 21 at the Denver Wrangler, 1700 Logan St. >> Women’s Party: 9 p.m. – Friday, Sept. 21 at eden Bar & cuisine Lounge, 3090 Downing St. >> Dance Party: 9 p.m. – Saturday, Sept. 22 at X-Bar, 629 E. Colfax Ave. >> Closing Party: 9 p.m. – Sunday, Sept. 23 at Cowboy Lounge, 1941 Market St.
Continued from page 23 Still, a few community groups and leaders are eager to address the topic head on. “There’s an expectation that if you’re in the LGBT community and dealing with homophobia, that means you’re not going to be racist or sexist,” said Sandhya Luther, director of advocacy at the Colorado Anti-Violence Program. “But if you’re not working on your own racism and sexism, it’s not going to go away just because you’re queer.” The Colorado Anti-Violence Program, which works with the National Coalition of Anti-Violence Programs to track statistics on violence against LGBT people and develops resources and programs to address it, provided statistics that Luther said are evidence of the challenges: not only anecdotal accounts of racist attitudes acted out in intimatepartner violence between LGBT partners, but a shockingly disproportionate number of people of color among the victims of hate crime murders. According to the Anti-Violence Coalition’s national report, 80 percent of the 30 reported LGBT hate murder victims in 2011 were people of color, up from 2010, when 70 percent of the 27 victims that year were people of color. Transgender women alone were 40 percent of the victims in 2010, though in 2011 that dropped to 10 percent of a statistic that included victims who survived murder attempts. “The whole movement seems to have become about marriage equality, as if that’s all we want and when we have it the movement can just go away,” Luther said, “This feeling that once we get married we’ll no longer be treated differently. And that’s not true. Gay men of color, women, trans people, gender non-conforming people are going to be more interested in health care, employment nondiscrimination and violence.” Luther was sure to clarify that she isn’t against marriage equality, “We aren’t against that at all,” she said, “it just isn’t a priority for us. The anti-violence movement is not a glamorous thing.” In 2010, a Needs Assessment Survey of 4,600 Coloradans by the then newly formed One Colorado, a Colorado statewide LGBT advocacy organization, found another striking disparity – that for Latino and African-American respondents, racism was a greater concern than homophobia or anti-LGBT discrimination, top issues for other segments of the surveyed group. After a series of town hall meetings for African-American and Latino community input, One Colorado launched the People of Color Caucus, a focus group with regular meetings to generate recommendations and process community perceptions among LGBT people of color, organized and cofounded by Cristina Aguilar and Karen Collier. “Originally we used to be called the T-POC [Transgender and LGBTQ People of Color] caucus. There was desire for continued dialogue, to discuss issues that weren’t specific to an individual community,” Aguilar said. “It came out of not only the survey but the communities that wanted to come together.” Aguilar and Collier continued to coordinate town hall meetings and community discussions, including a breakout group discussing ways to challenge racism in the LGBTQ movement at a summit last September for people of color. Continued on page 37
september 19, 2012 | outfrontonline.com
35
Travel
A New England stay for an early fall getaway I used to think that New England was reserved for the season for a convertible. First stop: Salem, MA. wealthy, J. Crew model-type co-eds and women Halloween is just around the corner, one of your named Fifi carrying dogs named Muffy. “Oh Charles, favorite holidays! The fog of the short windy drive makes it hard to recall what you more Chambord, please, and do tell were last year, until you laugh at the girls they have tennis lessons the thought of how tight those pants precisely at 5 p.m. I won’t have them were. Famous for the witch trials, losing to Foxcroft again.” Note: This this little town greets you with a is the appropriate moment for you to sign bragging “Founded 1626,” and roll your eyes. the beautifully old buildings are Stuffy archetypes do exist in evidence of the history. Google pulls the colonial states, but the region up a couple creepy tales, and your is far more accessible, affordable companion shutters and squirms as and relaxed than you may think. you read them aloud. After picking It’s funny how stereotypes get up some special crystal trinkets engrained in us, but it’s oh-sofrom one of the modern witch fantastic to have the opportunity shops near The Witch Museum, to put those stereotypes to the you settle down by the wharf for a test and learn something new. bowl of creamy clam chowder. You Without bursting chords of comconsult a map and zoom off toward munication theory, I’ll help you Rockport, MA, and the tiny B&B change your tune on New England you’ve reserved. Rockport delivers with a few surprisingly simple every bit of charm you’d expect ways to spend the end of your Amy Lynn O’Connell from a small New England town. summer. Grab your sweater vest The harbor is full of boats headed and sailing skills; we’re off to the tiny towns of northern New England for an unfor- out early for happy hour at sea, and quaint shops sell handmade jewelry and home goods. gettable fall getaway. After checking into your cozy abode, you walk to the pier and see a golden retriever on the front of If the sign says Peabody, don’t say it phonetically. You’ve been like a skipping rock up the east coast some college kid’s paddleboard – inspiring laughter – skimming the surface of each city before moving and a photo op. A couple kayaking follows the padon to the next. After days in Boston, you decide it’s dleboard, and somewhere in the distance fishermen time to quiet some of the noise and spend a few days line the rocks with lines cast into a dark abyss. On on the North Shore and maybe wander into Maine. Tuna Wharf, you snag a pamphlet at the North Shore Thankfully, a bit of charm landed you an upgrade on Kayak boat/board/bike rental shop and notice a corkthe rental car, and there’s just enough sunshine in board posting from the recent Pride festival. Funny
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september 19, 2012 | outfrontonline.com
how so many small towns get a reputation for being close minded while here, pics of Pride are displayed next to a flyer for sewing lessons. Sweet. Settle into your small town skin, little progressive city dweller. Dinner consists of a fresh fish sandwich and a couple Sam Adams seasonal brews on the 7th Wave rooftop. You laugh with a few locals and watch the boats jerk around in the breeze as the sun sets for the day. You breathe a sigh of relief and welcome an unfamiliar calm. It’s morning, and the day is packed! A cheap plate of runny eggs at Red Skiff is followed by a premeditated bike rental. The squeaky old wheels carry you down to the water, through tall grass, and past behemoth homes with crow nests overlooking lighthouses on distant islands. Accidentally cruising into a private drive, the owner of this mansion laughs welcomingly from her porch and suggests a secret path that will get you “right on the coast with a couple great shots of the town in the distance.” You end the day with a slice of sweet fudge and ditch the bike for your trip north. Next stop: Kennebunkport, ME. The name of the town makes you chuckle a bit, but a co-worker with keen sailing skills suggested it, so you booked a little spot on the beach for a few days. An evening charter boat is reserved for you and your equally relaxed travel companion. After an hour and a half drive north, punctuated with curiosity-promoted stops, you’re ready to board a beautiful ship for wine, appetizers and sightseeing with a handful of others. Waiting back at the beach house is a fridge full of steamed lobster. Waiting thousands of miles back home is a to-do list that’s irrelevant for the moment. Here, on a boat sailing in the Atlantic, is an unexpectedly warm atmosphere, the chill of fall and a sweater (vest?) to keep you warm. ]
[ [ Travel + shopping ] ]
Cover Story Continued from page 35 As part of that conversation, Collier said, the breakout group formulated a vision: “What does our dream for our movement look like?” – reflecting the issues LGBT people of color said they had faced. Among the goals were equal access to services and housing and acknowledgment of cultural diversity instead of “colorblindness.” “I think these responses, in the context of visioning how our lives could be ‘better,’ exhibit the sense that, one, access or the lack of it is unfairly based on financial and social wherewithal,” Collier said, “and that, two, ‘colorblindness’ is an oppressive way of viewing a person or group because it encourages devaluing and overlooking part or all of one’s identity.” Aguilar said, “The racism in the LGBT movement is no different from racism outside the LGBT movement. There is, however, an additional stigma that comes along with it – people of color have not only the minority label that comes from being a person of color but also from being LGBT-identified.” That includes prejudice and stigma driven by people in the LGBT community itself. “We wouldn’t be doing this work if there wasn’t a lack of awareness that this issue exists, or an invisibility factor,” she said. “No one really wants to have to own up to the reality that they may be struggling with their own issues with oppression,” Collier added. “It’s not a very popular thing – or a very accepted thing to admit to being racist. But we haven’t been working on racism [as a society] long enough for it to not be true.” “I think it’s important to say that racism is not necessarily an intentional act,” Collier went on. Yet, “it feels that way and looks that way when you’re encountering it.” At a recent function, Collier said, she noticed that at a large fundraising auction sold items attached to prices that many people in attendance likely could not afford. “Events are strategically planned to raise money,” she said, and often the largest LGBT fundraising events are high-dollar events. “I wonder sometimes if the means of people of color are considered.” Aguilar said, “To build on what Karen said, one of the things we’ve worked on is access points and sliding scales.” In a world where “racist” is often perceived as a crude insult or cuss word regardless of how it was intended, Collier and Aguilar both seemed to express that their emphasis in combating racism is more on educating the willing than shaming them. And white LGBT people have a model for playing a positive role – familiarity with the concept of allies. “Part of why we have the Ally Awards annual event is to honor people who have the courage to come forward in support of the LGBTQ community,” Collier said. “It may be that their beliefs or lack of exposure to people of color is not as positive or ‘politically correct’ as it could be. But being able to talk about it gets it on the table. There’s some discomfort coming to the table for fear of being ‘exposed as racist,’ but it’s really more about sharing in a philosophical conversation; finding a way to heal the scourge of racism is not staying stuck on the idea that someone is racist. It is dealing with the institution of racism or oppression as it plays out in our experiences.” ]
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37
QRAVE
Don’t stop bLushing:
New lesbian and LGBT bar gives East Colfax a new shade bLush bar coffee & lounge 1526 E. Colfax Ave. http://blushbar denver.com
Get $2 off any drink through Oct. 31
call (303) 484.8548
present your OFC VIP Card!
By Lauren Archuletta Blushing: It’s an involuntary, fight-or-flight response in our nervous system. We don’t do it on purpose, but in the end, we all do. This is Jody Bouffard’s theory behind the name of her recently opened bar, bLush; the name conceptualized by general manager Brittney Joseph. “Everyone blushes,” Bouffard said. “So the name really is a perfect fit.” Located on E. Colfax Ave., bLush Bar, coffee and lounge caters to a diverse crowd including the “gayborhood,” as Bouffard calls it. “We cater to everybody, really,” Bouffard said. “It’s a place that’s comfortable for everyone in the community, LG-
BT-identified or allies.” Most Denver residents might be taken aback at the thought of opening an establishment on east Colfax, and while Bouffard admits that occasionally it can be a bit like Sesame Street, with the occasional strange character strolling by, she wouldn’t pick any other location. “Colfax is the golden road,” Bouffard said. “Back in the day, it was the only way to get to the mountains for gold mining. Any business on Colfax is a good idea.” bLush isn’t your typical, run-of-the-mill Denver bar – it’s also an espresso bar and lounge. With the help of general manager Joseph, Bouffard has created two separate menus – a coffee and other non-alcoholic drinks menu, and one for the 21 and up
crowd looking for some spirits. And when the weather changes, so will the drinks. Another unique characteristic about bLush – being a wallflower is not an option. With the bright pink walls and small L-shaped construction of the bar, Bouffard isn’t going to let you stand in the corner and sip on your pink panty dropper. “If you come in and order a drink, I’m going to introduce you to the other people sitting at the bar,” Bouffard said. “You’re going to make new friends right away.” The former owner of Denver bars tHERE and HER, Bouffard knows how to bring in a loyal crowd and keep them coming. After taking a year away from the bar scene, her clientele returned
alongside her for the opening of bLush bar on July 17. Now that bLush is open, Bouffard and Joseph are working on drink specials and themed nights. “On Monday, your first drink is on us for anyone who works in the [bar or restaurant] industry,” Bouffard said. “Other nights are tequila Tuesday, ‘InFEMME’ess’ Friday and ‘Butch, Please’ on Saturday.” For Sunday fun day, Bouffard offers free pool, game viewing and other games for her customers. As bLush heads into its second month of being open, Bouffard wants to reach out to the community. “We’re here, we’re open, and we’re not going anywhere,” Bouffard said. ]
REVOLUTION
THE
Love your VIP Card? Then you’ll be craving QRAVE. Coming soon from Out Front: A new way to experience all the wonders of the Mile High City. QRAVE and your QRAVE Card will be your pass to amazing deals from local businesses, restaurants and service providers. Discounts, deals and promotions are just the tip of the iceberg. We’ll have daily offers, year-long exclusive discounts and giveaways. Get ready to start Qraving.
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september 19, 2012 | outfrontonline.com
[ [ Travel + shopping ] ]
QRAVE
Great Scotts! What a milkshake!
20% off your check By Lauren Archuletta Craving something thick and creamy at 2 a.m.? Well lucky for you, Great Scotts Eatery in Denver is open 24/7, ready to provide you with an endless supply of milkshakes. Home of the Shaken Thursday, where milkshakes are only $1.75, Great Scotts has a menu devoted entirely to their abundance of shake flavors. The 1950s-inspired restaurant, located right off of US-36 and Pecos St., is easily accessible for all of its customers, literally pulling you right off the highway. Once inside the restaurant, you’ve entered into the time slip of old-fashioned soda fountains and juke boxes. Neon signs line the walls, pointing you in the direction of the arcade and encouraging you to buy Pepsi products. Great Scotts offers customers a wide variety of specials, including a senior citizens menu. The breakfast crowd pleaser special: tater tots smothered in
BUSINESS OWNERS: Out Front’s QRAVE program offers exclusive discounts at participating locations across the state. You choose the discount you want to offer to your QRAVE customers – then sit back and watch the people line up at your business! The QRAVE membership is free to Out Front readers who regularly check the QRAVE web page and printed participating business list to determine where to spend their hard-earned dollars.
marshmallow sauce. But the specials don’t end there, especially for Out Front readers. “We offer 20 percent off your check with your VIP card,” said Fran Haskins, director of operations for both Great Scotts Eatery and Jay’s Grille and Bar. Haskins wants to stress that Great Scotts has more than one location in Colorado. “We have the one on Pecos and the one in Broomfield on 120th,” Haskins said. “We also have Jay’s on 78th and Washington in Denver.” All three locations participate in Out Front’s QRAVE program, although Haskins says she sees more VIP cards at Jay’s than at either Great Scotts location. “I wish more people with [VIP] cards would come in,” Haskins said. So grab your coat and get your hat and head to Great Scotts Eatery to “taste the memories.” ] Great Scotts Eatery is located at 1551 Cortez St. Online at http://greatscottseatery.com.
Get Your Business Involved In The Qrave Craze! Email advertising@outfrontonline.com or call (303) 477.4000 ext. 702 for details!
TO GET YOUR QRAVE CARD … Email promotions@outfrontonline.com [ [ Travel + shopping ] ]
Businesses
– Annie’s Cafe – Apollo Studio – Black Crown Lounge – bLush – Bonnie Brae Tavern – Buenos Aires Pizzeria – Capitol Hill B&B – Cherry Creek Optical – Complete Nutrition – Denver Boulder Colorado Reality – Denver City Rolfing – Denver Film Center – Emerald City Eyebrows – Gigi’s Cupcakes – Great Scott’s Eatery – Hamburger Mary’s – Hapa Sushi – 5280 Chiropractic – ITS Massage – Keos Marketing – LePeep Grill City Park – Martini’s Bistro – Planet Laboratories – Romantix – Skoops Ice Cream – SkyVenture Colorado – Shells and Sauce – Solera Restaurant – 2Wice as Nice
september 19, 2012 | outfrontonline.com
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september 19, 2012 | outfrontonline.com
FASHION
Upper classman Be sure your wardrobe
makes the grade By Misty Milioto
Back-to-school season is the perfect time to update your wardrobe. OFC spoke with Brittin Karaffa, marketing manager at Park Meadows, about the hottest trends for the 2012/13 school year. “Park Meadows has a diverse collection of stores that are both fashionable and functional,” she said. “We have everything from clothing and technology to backpacks and unique furnishings for college-bound kids.” Here you’ll find stores like Forever 21, Urban Outfitters, Vans, True Religion and GAP. Park Meadows also is one of the few shopping centers in the country that has both Apple and Microsoft stores, so you can be sure your technology needs will be met.
Too Cool for School Skinny jeans: These wardrobe staples
are here to stay, but with a new twist for fall. The bright colors that we saw this spring have now shifted to darker, saturated colors like wine, mustard and cobalt blue. “Jazz them up with cute cardigans and functional hoodies for effortless looks,” Karaffa said.
Ballet flats: They aren’t just for
dancers! Try them in bright colors, patent leather, animal prints (leopard is huge!), and with embellishments like studs and rivets.
Slouchy knit beanies: This fall,
both guys and girls will be sporting these toppers. “Let a little hair fall out of the sides for a flirty look,” Karaffa says.
Bright rugby stripes: For the guys, whether on a T-shirt or on a polo, this bold pattern will add an instant sporty vibe to a pair of jeans. Your boyfriend’s clothes: We know you already borrow his stuff, but, this semester, blazers, slouchy sweaters, cuffed khakis and loafers will all be hot.
Fashion Detention Skulls and crossbones: While
these grim details were everywhere last year, it’s time to cheer up with bright florals and fun polka dots.
Neon: Just like in 1983, this trend
A+ Add-Ons Hurley The One backpack: This stylish yet functional backpack offers tough protection for a laptop but with a classic laid-back fabric. The Michael Kors wallet clutch: It
combines an iPhone case with a stylish leather clutch (with lots of pockets for credit cards and student IDs).
Vera Bradley tablet folio: This stylish and smart folio can be used upright for watching videos or propped at an angle for typing. The Marc by Marc Jacobs Mademoiselle Danger snap case for iPhone: It will keep you looking stylish even when you have to call mom and dad for extra cash.
The LifeCam HD-6000 for Notebooks: You may not like it, but your parents will love being able to keep an eye on their college-bound kids. ]
was everywhere last year. But now it’s (thankfully!) gone again.
Capes: You aren’t Superman. There
is absolutely no reason to leave the house in a cape, much less show up to school in one.
Socks with sandals or open-toe shoes: You may see this look on the
runways (or on your grandfather), but please don’t go out in public like this! “Instead, wear tie-up brogues, oxfords or moccasins, or high knee socks peeking out from the top of the season’s hottest look – boots,” Karaffa said.
Color blocking: While this was all the rage last year (and even the year before), this season is all about pattern blocking. Mix different patterns – like a floral skirt with a striped t-shirt – but just keep the patterns in the same color family.
[ [ Travel + shopping ] ]
september 19, 2012 | outfrontonline.com
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ART FROM ASHES
Poetic Expression
Break a heel
It’s Time You Spoke
for LGBTQ youth
By Jet, age 21 To the little girl dreamin’ Of red carpets and flash bulbs–
By Mari Christie
What:
Third Annual Running of the Gays
Who:
Fundraiser for Art from Ashes
When:
11 a.m., Sept. 30
Stilettos, pumps, mules, wedges and strappy sandals. It is time to dust off your favorite high heels for the Running of the Gays! This annual fundraising event asks supporters to run in their Manolos or Louboutins – or less expensive alternatives – to support creative programs for LGBTQ youth. The “fashion marathon” on Sept. 30 begins at Steuben’s (523 17th Ave.) at 11 a.m., and finishes three very long city blocks later. Art from Ashes, organizer and beneficiary of this fundraiser, is a local creative writing program that helps struggling young people of all persuasions find healing, purpose and direction for their lives. Funds raised by this event benefit LGBTQ young people through programs through Rainbow Alley at The GLBT Community Center. This may seem like a silly way to spend a Sunday afternoon, but the reason for the fundraiser is anything but. According to The Center, 30 percent of all youth suicides are related to the issue of sexual identity; 45 percent of gay males and 20 percent of lesbians experience bullying in high school due to their orientation; and 26 percent of gay and lesbian young people are forced to leave home because of family conflicts over sexual identity. One way these problems can be addressed and overcome is by giving young people an empowered voice to tell their stories.
Where:
To the little tranny Who hears she is an ugly man–
Steuben’s, 523 17th Ave.
How Much:
$20, runner sponsorships encouraged www.artfromashes.org Contact: Catherine O’Neill Thorn, info@artfromashes.org
AfA has a large percentage of LGBT volunteers and facilitators, several of whom insisted, “We need to do this for our population, for kids struggling with sexual orientation and gender identity.” Catherine O’Neill Thorn, executive director and founder of AfA, has worked with more than 6,000 struggling young people in Colorado over the past 20 years (5,000 with AfA), including three years with survivors of the Columbine shootings in 1999. She has won numerous awards, including Westword’s Mastermind Award for Literary Arts, the Community “Artivist” Award from the Pan-African Arts Society, and the Colorado Book Award for her compilation of Columbine students’ poetry, Screams Aren’t Enough. The purpose for her work stems from a deep empathy for children and young adults who have experienced trauma in many forms – abuse, neglect, delinquency, incarceration, mental illness, poverty – leaving them disconnected, invalidated, and with a devastated sense of self-worth. Beyond that, however, she said “This is a social justice issue. There is a real disrespect toward young people. When you combine it with the attitude of society toward LGBTQ youth, compound it with sexual identity and gender identity and racism and poverty… these young people just feel like, ‘What do I have to live for?’” She also makes it very clear that while they do not collect demographic information about orientation or gender identity, aside from asking participants to identify their pronoun
“... giving young people an empowered voice to tell their stories.” of choice, “In every single workshop we ever do, there are young people who identify as LGBTQ.” O’Neill Thorn began this work on the board of a residential treatment center for male perpetrators and addicts ages 11 to 18, where she found “the most hardened criminals… couldn’t wait to tell their stories through poetry and loved hearing that they were poets. It made a difference to them, to have that identity instead of the victim-perpetrator identity. Treating young people with respect has a profound impact. They really rise to meet that.” This idea is central to all of their workshops, as exemplified by Khalid (last name withheld on request), an 18-year-old, bisexual participant who began his experience with AfA four years ago at The Crossing, a transitional housing program of The Denver Rescue Mission where he lived with his family. “I started realizing I do have a voice – through my poetry. As teenagers, we feel like we don’t have an impact on the world. But our words do matter.” As a participant, volunteer, and intern with AfA, he said, “The program helped me come out of my shell, made me comfortable in my skin, with who I am as a person today.” Khalid will soon begin college and hopes to become an AfAtrained workshop facilitator.
[ [ LIVING ] ]
To the gay boy Who only hears he is a sinner– To the beautiful phoenixes– To the amazing souls– To what is without and beyond A shadow of doubt The strongest voices– Rise from those ashes! Let the phoenix songs That your soul sings Rise into the air And change the world For you Are our only hope
Catherine O’Neill Thorn Continued on page 46
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art from ashes Continued from page 51
“Our program crosses all kinds of cultural boundaries. It isn’t about specific struggles; it’s all about self-empowerment.” – O’Neill Thorn Anna-Liisa (Al) Breit, organizer of The Running of the Gays and an AfA facilitator who identifies as a member of the LGBT community, has seen these dramatic results as a co-facilitator at Excelsior Youth Center, a residential treatment program for girls with emotional and behavior difficulties. “They were writing things they said that they wouldn’t tell their therapists…. They were sending these poems to their counselors and therapists and teachers and other important people in their lives… Young people would come in defiant, and even in their defiance, they would still write.” She shared the memory of a girl who began refusing to write, and ended the program so prolific that she wrote “eight times” the work of others in the program. The Running of the Gays raised more than $3,000 for LGBTQ youth programs in 2011, translating to about 15 eightsession workshops. They hope to raise at least $5,000 this year, to expand their presence beyond Rainbow Alley and into GSAs and other LGBTQ programs for young people. Runners are asked to pay a $20 registration fee and solicit sponsors for their run totaling $250 or
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[ [ Living ] ]
more; however, they are happy to have anyone participate, and runners can sign up as late as the day of the race (although AfA does suggest a “training” routine to minimize the chance of injury). The event will open with performances by Shirley Delta Blow, Bovine Metropolis Theater and Tetra Nova, and will be followed by an afterparty (young-person friendly) at X-Bar, as well as brunch and drink specials at Steuben’s and Hamburger Mary’s. All runners will receive a fabulous feather boa to accent their footwear. While this event is geared toward the LGBTQ population, O’Neill Thorn says that their work is not limited to these young people. “Our program crosses all kinds of cultural boundaries. It isn’t about specific struggles; it’s all about self-empowerment. Once you have dealt with how beautiful and creative and powerful you are, and begin to exercise that confidence and power, all sorts of issues are affected by that… Any young person who is struggling deserves a fair shot at self-actualization and some understanding of his or her creative power. That can change the world for them.” ]
ALLIES
Deciding on the
right care facility What if someone you love needs a nursing home? I received a call last month from a friend whose grandmother was in the hospital. Her family needed to select a nursing home by the end of the day, as she would be discharged the following morning. As the primary caregiver, my friend asked me where her beloved “Gran” could go so that she and her partner could visit without being judged. I often hear statements like: “I hope I never have to think about a nursing home.” “What if I can’t be who I am?” “Are the nurses and staff trained to care for LGBT individuals?” The decision to move into a skilled nursing facility can feel scary and overwhelming, especially when the decision must be made in a matter of days or sometimes hours. Here are some guidelines to assist you with that decision: Before visiting Write out every question on your mind. It is important to have all the information you need to make the best decision. Check to see that your loved one’s doctor makes nursing home visits. If not, you may have to find a doctor who does.
1 2
Questions to ask Has the staff received any formal inclusivity training such as Project Visibility? How often is it reviewed? What are the qualifications of the nursing staff and social workers? How many are working during the current shift? How many patients are they responsible for? Will the staff take time getting to know my loved one’s personal preferences? (My friend’s Gran always wears hot pink lipstick. Does the staff know to help her with her lipstick each morning?) What are the rehabilitation facilities like? Look at the therapy gym and talk to the therapists. Ask about their equipment and personalized therapy programs. Ask to see the calendar of activities and the dining menu – look for variety and choices.
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
Krista Newton, LCSW W h at t o o b s e r v e Are residents well groomed and dressed, appearing as though they are ready to “go out?” Are staff members engaging?
1
2 3
What does the space feel like? Is there private, personal space? Are there comfortable socialization or activity areas? Does the environment appear hectic? Too quiet? Friendly? Are you comfortable with what you see, hear, smell? Trust your senses and impressions.
4 5
Lastly, I encourage you to not always judge a book by its cover. Beauty may live on the inside. Don’t dismiss a facility just by its exterior appearance. It is the care that occurs inside that really matters. My friend’s Gran found a wonderful community. Her health is improving, and she wants to stay there. She is thriving as a result of the personalized attention and care she is receiving. Take comfort in knowing that there are inclusive communities who care for their residents like they are family. Don’t settle for anything less than what you desire for your loved one. ] By Krista Newton, LCSW, is the Director of Business Development for Shalom Cares, a hospice and service provider of health care for in-home treatment of illnesses and injuries that serves the Denver Metro area. Shalom Cares is located at 14800 E. Belleview Dr., Aurora. For more info, call (303) 760.7600, email to Krista. newton@shalomcares.net, or online at http://shalomcares.org.
[[ [[ Living Living ]] ]]
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Real estate
Which is a better investment,
new construction home or resale? By Jeff Hammerberg When shopping for a next home, a reasonable person may ask what the better investment is – a new home or an existing one? The answer depends on a number of factors. To make the comparison between new homes and existing homes a bit easier, consider only the choice of new homes vs. recently constructed homes. New construction offers many choices. Everything from the roofing material to the basement floor is negotiable. Builders typically start with a price for a basic home, with the assumption that every component of that home will be the least expensive or the lowest grade. From there, the buyer gets to choose a wide variety of upgrades, all with additional cost added to the purchase price. Sometimes a room can be added, a garage can be expanded, appliances can be upgraded, and the kitchen counter can be granite instead of vinyl. Floors can be hardwood or tile instead of carpet. Even bathroom sinks and toilets can be upgraded. Which upgrades make sense from an investment point of view? This is a tough decision. If you upgrade
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everything, it will be hard to recover the cost when selling the home. If you proceed with low-grade materials throughout the home, future buyers will offer a lower price, with the expectation of installing the upgrades that you chose not to buy. The advantage of new construction is not really investment value, it is the ability to get a house built exactly the way you want it. With an existing home, the design choices have been made already. The only decision is which home to buy. Depending on market conditions, it may be possible to find homeowners who purchased every conceivable upgrade when the home was built and are now under pressure to sell. If the home was built with bare-bones materials, it may be possible to negotiate a price low enough to pay for all of the upgrades. Once in a while, there will be homeowners who overvalue their property, thinking that they are entitled to get all the money back that they spent on upgrades. In an extreme seller’s market, they might get their wish. But in most cases, buyers will simply move on to other properties. There are certain components of a home that are difficult to change after it is built. For example, consider central heat and air conditioning. Converting a home from forced air to baseboard radiators is a difficult and expensive proposition.
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[ [ Living ] ]
Whether you build or buy a home, it is important from an investment point of view to look at the design choices from the perspective of selling the home right away. The investment value of a home is (roughly) the selling price minus the purchase price. If central air is customary and common in your area, expect to be penalized if your home does not have it. Even if you do not care about central air, do not assume you can find a buyer who will buy a home that lacks a feature that most other homes have. Anyone can upgrade kitchen counters or appliances, but nobody will want a floor plan that is obviously missing a bathroom. The advantage of resale is you’ll be in an established neighborhood and likely save thousands on basement finish, landscaping and window coverings. If you build a home, make reasonable design choices with resale in mind. If you buy a home, avoid getting locked into unusual design choices that limit the home’s appeal to potential buyers. ] Author Jeff Hammerberg is the founding CEO of www.GayRealEstate.com.
Big toys
Brand Beautification: 2012 Chrysler 200
Transforms Sebring to Butterfly By Jonathan McGrew
Car purchases are driven by perception and feeling – no one wants a car that she or he doesn’t like. A decade ago, Chrysler had the unfortunate lineup of designs carried over from previous philosophies – remember the emphasis on “cab forward design?” The brand’s revitalization was the introduction of the Chrysler 300 at the 2003 New York Auto Show. With elements of Daimler (Mercedes) influence evident in the Chrysler 300’s W211 E-Class components, the result was what the Chrysler brand needed – beautification. The Chrysler 300 set in motion what would eventually be picked up by the newest set of owners and investors: Fiat. The Sebring represented part of what was wrong with Chrysler prior to the launch of the Chrysler 300. It burst on the automotive scene for the 1994 model year during the cab forward design period, the same period that spawned the now retired Intrepid. In 2004, the Chrysler 300 was changing perceptions of the Chrysler brand, but the Sebring continued on the previous track until the 2007 model year when Chrysler launched the redesign on the new JS platform, updating the foundation of the vehicle. Still, the Sebring was the caterpillar, Chrysler 300 was the butterfly. In fact, most of the Chrysler portfolio represented the caterpillar next to a Japanese car of the same price, it just couldn’t get attention. This is where Fiat came to the table, and another chapter began for the historic American automobile brand. In 2010, Fiat knew the Sebring wasn’t cutting it. It still incorporated too much previous design theory and not enough of the excitement and interest that the Chrysler 300 or the redesigned Dodge Charger or Challenger brought. When the cocoon opened, what fluttered out was the 2011 Chrysler 200. Now in its second model year, the Chrysler 200 is new, but maybe not as new as it appears. The TV ads starred Eminem and hit us with a new slogan, “Imported from Detroit.” The question still remained though, was this lipstick on a pig or a real beautification of the mid-size luxury line up from Chrysler? From where I sit as an automotive enthusiast, the 2012 Chrysler 200 is exactly the direction Chrysler needs to go. Our test vehicle tipped the scales at $27,785, which seemed like a bargain for a nice looking four-door sedan aiming to be upscale. It had navigation, satellite radio, heated seats, individual tire pressure monitoring and a leather-outfitted interior. Moreover, for that price it had upgraded wheels, Boston Acoustics sounds system, standard LED pipe light running lights, dual exhaust, climate control and the new 283 horsepower 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine. Those are the high points, but there are things we would have liked on our test car: a rear view back-up camera, smart or intelligent key system with push button start, and a more sophisticated transmission. The place the 2012 Chrysler 200 suffers isn’t in the looks or the interior appointments, but the driving department. Don’t get us wrong – the V6 and the updated suspension that goes along with it provides plenty of
chrysler 200
Photos Courtesy of www.chrysler.com
get up and go, and good absorption of bumps. In fact, those who purchased a four-cylinder 200 will be disappointed if they ever drive the V6, because the road holding and overall ride quality of the latter is much improved. The part that still has some carry-over from the grips of the Sebring include the automatic transmission that seemed rough on shift points in our test car and the heavy steering that made the 200 a vehicle we were less confident to challenge curvy roads or even in-town round-a-bouts at great speed. It isn’t that the suspension won’t hold the curve, it just doesn’t feel like a sports sedan. To give it some leeway, it isn’t one. The 2012 Chrysler 200 is a great car if you keep in mind the overall mission: luxury appointments, power and a modest price. Will the Chrysler 200 compete with the likes of the Japanese or Korean cars also vying for your attention? The 2013 all-new Nissan Altima is compelling and so is the 2012/2013 Kia Optima. That said, “Imported from Detroit” pulls at the heartstrings. If you like a full-bodied design that feels like it has some heft to it, a price that is in the mid to upper $20K and still gets 19/29-mpg city/hwy, the 2012 Chrysler 200 should be on your short list for a test drive. Step one of the beautification project is complete. Now we wait for step two to see if the driving excitement seen in the 300 and Challenger develop in the next generation 200. ]
[ [ Living ] ]
“If you like a full-bodied design that feels like it has some heft to it ... the 2012 Chrysler 200 should be on your short list for a test drive.”
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PET PROFILE
Attached at the hip:
More than a dog Owner Heidi Lantry:
Chloe Lantry is very special and not just because she is the sweetest, smartest, best looking, most well behaved dog on the planet (maybe Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m a bit biased). Chloe is most special because of how she came into my life. Eight years ago while sitting in my third- story office downtown, I look down to the street and see what looks like a squirrel dodging traffic on Speer Boulevard I look closer and realize itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a puppy! I ran down three flights of stairs and ran into the street stopping traffic and swooped up this
tiny, skinny, filthy little dog. I took her home with me that night, gave her a bath, fed her two bowls of food and made a cozy bed for her next to my bed. I watched her fall asleep and woke up the next morning with that dog laying right next to me. Her head on the pillow, tucked underneath the covers, nose to nose with me just staring at me. I fell in love with Chloe Lantry at that moment and eight years later, we are still attached at the hip. I know people say it all the time but I truly feel like this dog saved me, not the other way around. She is quite fantastic. ]
Send us your pet pix and stories!
For many of us, our pets are family. Out Front Colorado wants to publish your pet pictures and funny stories. Email to holly@outfrontonline.com.
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ON THE SCENE with charles
Exile Ball at Tracks
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sexuality
heinzesight
Ask the sexpert:
Is my new relationship a priority
Erogenous piercings and sexy sweat
Shanna Katz
Dear Shanna,
If someone gets their nipples pierced, does that enhance the sensation in them, or does it make them feel numb? Does it change if the barbells are vertical or horizontal? - Needing Nipple Advice in Capitol Hill Dear NNA – Bodies are unique, and each one is going to have its own reaction to something invasive like piercing. For most people, having their nipples pierced can increase the amount of sensitivity in them, and intensify the sensations felt by stimulating them. However, as with all piercings in sexual areas (nipples, vulvas/labia/hoods, penises, scrotums, perineums, etc), your body might handle a piercing differently, and the nerves may react by numbing themselves, or changing the way that you experience sensation. As far as vertical versus horizon-
tal, that is a question best answered by your particular piercer. Different piercers have different preferences; some suggest horizontal for larger chests, and then there is also the conversation of rings or barbells. In the end, do your research, but remember that your piercer is the expert in their field, and defer to their wisdom. If you want to increase nipple sensation as part of your sexual play without piercings, you can try out a variety of nipple clamps, nipple suckers (sometimes called snake bite kits), nipple pumps, etc. Enjoy your nipple journey! – Shanna
Dear Shanna, This is an odd question; is it weird if my boyfriend’s armpit sweat turns me on? It’s never been like this with any of the other guys I have dated? - Hot and Sweaty in Park Hill Hey Hot and Sweaty – Getting turned on by your partner’s bodily fluids (sweat or otherwise) happens to quite a few people at some point. Why? Pheromones. These are chemicals that are extracted by your body, in this case, to attract sexual partners. Each and every person has their own unique chemical make up of these pheromones, a proprietary blend of sorts that other people can smell through sweat or other bodily fluids. Most of the time, we’re not even aware that we are smelling these on other people, but our bodies react more to certain pheromones than others. For many of us, we are never conscious of our reactions to pheromones, but we might notice we’re more attracted to certain people than to others.
However, for some folks, the pheromones put off a more noticeable scent that really gets their motor going. Some places sell pheromone sprays with the idea that you can attract more people. However, the problem with these is two fold; firstly, they are designed for straight folks, so the masculine spray is supposed to attracted women, and vice versa. The other issue is that pheromones aren’t one size fits all, so just because you spray them on doesn’t mean that you’ll be attracting the people that you are attracted to. For now, enjoy the fact that your boy toy’s armpit really gets you going, and maybe even integrate that into your sexual play if you want. – Shanna ]
Have a question you’d like to ask Shanna? Email shannakatz@gmail.com. Shanna Katz, M.Ed, ACS, is a Colorado native, fierce femme and board-certified sexologist. She believes strongly in open- source, accessible sexuality education and loves teaching adults how to optimize their sex lives. For more info, please visit www.ShannaKatz.com.
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Dear Brent, I met a guy online and we hit it off. The sex is OK, but what makes this relationship different and special to me is how much we have in common and enjoy each other’s company. I have some concerns about him not following through with promises and forgetting conversations, but he has also told me that he is going to the gym and found out later he decided to go out with a friend for dinner instead. I have been careful to not put pressure on him that would make him think that I expect us to be an official or exclusive couple, but his lack of follow-through frustrates me and I’m thinking our relationship is not a priority for him. The very last thing I want to do is become a bitter, stalking, suspicious friend, but it seems like I’m headed that way. What do you think? Turning into a psycho stalker hiding in the bushes like a private investigator would be a bad way to start a relationship. If you are feeling like that, it is definitely time to step back and regroup. Those kinds of behaviors don’t benefit anyone and it will eventually blow up. If you want him to live up to the expectations he has put out for you, that’s more understandable. There are times when we become disappointed or angry at someone who doesn’t follow through with promises. When someone complains about a person pissing her or him off, my first question is always, “Have you talked to the person about it?” It’s amazing how many people will grumble about how they feel repeatedly hurt or irritated but hadn’t given someone the chance to explain or correct it. It’s hard for people to identify a problem they don’t exists. Don’t confuse setting boundaries for being an overbearing stalker.
[ [ Living ] ]
Brent Heinze
There is nothing wrong with expecting someone to remember plans and hold him accountable when he doesn’t follow through. There are times when people don’t realize their actions have negative impacts on others. The possibility may exist that his memory really is that shotty, he has a poor event scheduling system, or his secretary is on vacation. Regardless, we are all adults and responsible for being where we are supposed to be and follow through our word. It sounds like you are thinking there is potential for this relationship to move forward in a deeper way. When people become invested in something, the fear of losing it becomes more of a concern and frustrations can intensify when expectations aren’t met. There can be times where two individuals may have different perceptions of what the interpersonal relationship actually means. In these kinds of situations, one may think that the interaction is a lot of momentary fun and want to do a victory lap around the bedroom. The other may be laying there in afterglow thinking about what the relationship may look like five years down the road on a trip together to Berlin. You may want to ask him if he is feeling any long-term relationship potential between the two of you. You may get an answer that you don’t want to hear, but it is better to have a firm understanding of how each of you is seeing your relationship and potentially setting some new ground rules for how you schedule time together. I encourage anyone to bring up relationship concerns before resentment builds up. Having positive open communication where both people feel that they are being heard is at the cornerstone of any healthy relationship regardless if you are getting naked or not. Don’t sweep this under the carpet and hope that it will get better. ] Brent Heinze, LPC, is a licensed professional counselor. Send questions and comments to PerspectiveShift@ yahoo.com.
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BACK IN THE DAY
From Out Front Colorado’s February 12, 1988 issue …
Article from February 12, 1988
tation. Fede
By Lauren Archuletta
T
he February 12, 1988 issue of Out Front shed light on homophobia in immigration law, calling attention to the Atlanta Prison Riots. Gay immigrants were starting the riots after being incarcerated for their sexual orientations. The back-story had begun eight years earlier: In 1980, Fidel Castro allowed 125,000 Cuban citizens to travel to the United States via the Mariel Boats, saying that anyone who wanted to go may go. However, upon arriving to the U.S., thousands of homosexual refugees were arrested and sent
to both the Atlanta Federal Penitentiary and the Federal Alien Detention Center of Louisiana for a maximum sentence of eight years. At the time, the Immigration and Nationality Act was in place to exclude homosexuals from receiving a visa and entrance into the United States. When Out Front published “Imprisoned for no other crime than being gay,” it was just a few months after the announcement that the Atlanta Federal Penitentiary would deport and reinstate approximately 2,500 Cuban nationals. The riots began on Nov. 10, 1987, and lasted 11 days. Later, the 1990 Immigration Act removed sexual orientation as grounds to deny
entrance into the United States. During the time of the Atlanta Prison Riots, Ronald Reagan was serving the end of his second presidential term. The AIDS epidemic was in full effect, claiming nearly 17,000 lives. The Second March on Washington for Lesbian and Gay Rights took place on Oct. 11, 1987. In 1988, the year Out Front published the article about the Cuban prisoners, the LGBT community celebrated its first National Coming Out Day on Oct. 11. Virginia, Oregon and Chicago banned discrimination based on sexual orientation. Federico Peña was the mayor of Denver, and Roy Romer was the governor of Colorado. ]
Back in MY day… Got a story, memory or reflection to share from way back when? Let us know about it! Email holly@outfrontonline.com with a 200-400 word story with “back in my day” in the subject line to have it considered for print!
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[ [ Living ] ]
OUTback classifieds
Welcomes the Players and Participants of the National Gay Flag Football Championship
MONDAY Flasback Mondays 5 Hour Lockers are $10 from 5pm to 10pm
MATURE MASSEUR Stress, Pain Relief Massage. $59 per hour. 10 am to 9 pm daily. Capitol Hill. Call Dick 720-732-9447
MASSAGE FOR THE MATURE MALE Stress relief, Full Body, Therapeutic. $50 per hour. South Denver. Near Porter Hospital Brad, 303-915-4941
se, Save a HCorowboy Ride a
TUESDAY Leather Group Meets the 1st Tues. of the month BearsandBellies.com meets the 2nd Tues. of the month
WEDNESDAY Half Price Rooms! From 8am Wed. to 8am Thurs. 8 Hour Rental. Specialty rooms not included
THURSDAY Hot J/O Show at 9pm
SUNDAY Hot J/O Show at 4pm Free Food & Beverages After the Show
Front Range Bears meets the 3rd Tues. of the month TWINK NIGHT is the 4th Tues. of the month
2935 ZUNI STREET • DENVER COLORADO 303-459-8902 • WWW.MIDTOWNE.COM Visit our website for a schedule of performers, Parties HIV/STD Testing Schedule and Special Events!
COM E THE SEE NEW PATI O!
900 East Colfax Avenue Denver, CO 80218
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