January 2023 :: Past, Present, and Future

by SpookyGirl

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Past, Present, and Future

I t’s hard to believe, but another year is behind us, and we are moving boldly into 2023. While in many ways, our lives and society will never be the same post-COVID, in others, we’ve learned so much.

During COVID and the turnover we experienced at OFM, the business became womenowned for the first time in our 46-, soon to be 47-year, legacy. And as a society, we learned a lot about what NOT to do going forward—who not to elect, how to avoid hate, and how to be more respectful of marginalized folks. Though the shooting in Colorado Springs at Club Q proves there is still much more work to be done, and we are eager and ready to head up that conversation.

So this year, we did something a little different. Instead of just looking at what the year will bring, we are reflecting on our past, living in our present, and focusing on our future. After all, isn’t that what the human experience is all about?

We invite you to dig into these pages for some queer history, predictions, and current happenings, and thank you for giving us this legacy for another year!

-Addison Herron-Wheeler

Art by SpookyGirl

of the Club Q Shooting

By Ray Manzari

Club Q was known as one of the few queer gathering spaces in city of Colorado Springs. In late November, the safety and sanctity of that space was violently ripped away when a lone gunman entered the night club and opened fire, killing five and injuring another 18 patrons of the bar.

Bystanders took the gunman down in a show of force and bravery the likes of which is rarely seen even from law enforcement when dealing with an active shooter. The murder of trans and other queer people in what was supposed to be a safe space, on Transgender Day of Remembrance, a day set aside to memorialize transgender folks lost to violence, has deeply wounded not only the queer community in Colorado Springs, but across the nation.

The Victims

Raymond Green Vance (he/him)

Vance was 22 years old and visiting Club Q for the first time that night with his longtime girlfriend. He and the rest of her family were there celebrating a birthday. The people Vance was dancing with included Richard M. Fierro, the man who subdued the suspected gunman, according to a Facebook post by his wife Jessica Fierro.

“Unfortunately, he never left the club. Raymond was the victim of a man who unleashed terror on innocent people out with family and friends,” Vance’s family statement reads. “His own family and friends are completely devastated by the sudden loss of a son, grandson, brother, nephew, and cousin loved by so many.”

Kelly Loving (she/her)

Loving visited Club Q on the night of the shooting while on a weekend trip from Denver. As a trans woman, Loving had dealt with violence before. According to Natalee Skye Bingham, a friend of Loving’s, she had been beaten, stabbed, and even shot at in the past.

The 40-year-old is survived by her sister, who released a brief statement: “My condolences go out to all the families who lost someone in this tragic event and to everyone struggling to be accepted in this world. My sister was a good person. She was loving and caring and sweet. Everyone loved her. Kelly was a wonderful person.”

Daniel Aston (he/him)

Aston was a bar supervisor at Club Q and was 28 years old. “He was the best supervisor anybody could’ve asked for. He made me want to come into work, and he made me want to be a part of the positive culture we were trying to create there,” a co-worker told press.

Aston came out as transgender at the age of 14, and at the time of his death was living fully as his authentic self. Aston moved to Colorado Springs two years ago to be closer to his mother and father, parents Jeff and Sabrina Aston told The Denver Post. The club was a few minutes from their home, and after one of Daniel’s friends told them he’d been shot, they rushed to the emergency room—only to find he’d never arrived.

Derrick Rump (he/him)

Rump was a bartender at Club Q and was 38 years old. Patrons of the club remember Rump as kind, giving, and a deeply passionate member of his community. He loved to play classic Britney hits like “Toxic” and “Hit Me Baby One More Time” loud enough that you could hear it from the parking lot. Rump would often bring extra lashes or outfits for drag performers who needed them.

“He is what made Club Q,” says Kayla Rene Cortes, a 26-yearold lesbian who has visited the bar for years. Without him, Cortes says the club is “never going to be the same.”

Ashley Paugh (she/ her)

Paugh was a patron at Club Q on the night of the shooting. She is survived by her extensive family, including her mother, father, siblings, and nieces and nephews, as well as her daughter, Ryleigh. Paugh is described as having had a big heart which she was able to show in her work with Kid’s Crossing, a nonprofit organization that houses children in foster care.

“She would do anything for the kids—traveling all over southeastern Colorado, from Pueblo and Colorado Springs to Fremont County and the Colorado border, working to raise awareness and encourage individuals and families to become foster parents to children in our community,” her family tells the press.

The Aftermath

The city of Colorado Spring soon became host to a large memorial for the victims. Visitors include members of the LGBTQ community from across the state of Colorado, including Colorado Governor Jared Polis.

“I think that first and foremost, we remember that five lives were lost. I talked to family members of the five. I've talked to those who were injured. But also, those who weren't here. I had one friend I talked to who was here 10 minutes before the shooting. I know others who saw this as a safe space,” Polis says.

In the wake of the Club Q shooting, many night clubs and drag performances have begun bolstering security at events. Some nationally touring drag queens have taken to traveling with armed security and have positioned metal detectors at the entrances to performance spaces.

OFM reached out to several community members for statements on the tragedy; this is what some of them had to say.

“In the miasma of emotions this has triggered in me, grief, anger, all of it, the one thing I'm not feeling is surprise,” says Pasha Ripley, co-founder of Parasol Patrol, a nonprofit organization that shields children from anti-LGBTQ protestors.

“I'm shocked at the loss of dear friends and family to so many. However, when you go out sometimes several times a week to libraries, bookstores, and event venues to family-friendly LGBTQIA+, and, BIPOC events and have to listen to grown adults who come to yell at children, it's not a surprise this happened. They call us groomers and pedophiles because we want children to be able to go to a library to be read a book without hate speech and harassment.”

“To be honest, that wasn't just a club. It wasn't even just a safe place. It was a sanctuary. Places like Club Q aren't just bars or hangouts. They're sacred places where we don't have to censor ourselves or be too careful about what we say or how we say it, or who we love or how we love them. It's cliché, but they truly are supposed to be safe spaces in more than one way. The actions of one coward did more than kill our friends, although that in and of itself is way more than obscene. It was a violation of our emotions around feeling safe. It will take such a long time for us to heal. So many of us are afraid and rightfully so. But I think bravery is feeling afraid and going out and living our lives in spite of that fear,” Ripley tells OFM.

“I spoke about it some at a vigil at Lulu's, left the stage, and was weeping. Someone with the saddest, sweetest smile tears running down their face came and embraced me. We cried together until we could catch our breath. Then they said, ‘I'm easy to tears, too. But do you know what Daniel used to say to me when I cried at Club Q? He'd take me by the shoulders and look deep into my eyes and say, 'You know what? Damn your ugly when you cry!'’ We both laughed at that together and dried our tears together.”

“You’ll hear everyone say Club Q was a sanctuary, and they are right. For a very long time, Club Q was the only place in Southern Colorado where you could feel safe to be queer, and you were celebrated for it. The people who frequented Club Q never took that for granted. It was a nice escape from Denver when I was invited to perform there on occasion starting back in 2014,” Denver drag artist Lala Queen tells OFM.

“I never once felt like an outsider there because everyone al ways made me feel welcomed. I gained siblings at Club Q that I’ll carry with me the rest of my days, and my heart hurts for them. If there’s anything I know about the queer community of Colorado Springs, it is that they are strong, and they are re silient. Sending so much love to all my family and friends at Club Q.”

Queer Word Search

by Kerry Shatzer

OFM's Ask a Coach

with Ingomu

Welcome to Ask a Coach, where Ingomu coaches answer your questions about life, work, wellness, or matters of the soul. Share your question with us at coaches@ingomu.com, and we’ll answer them here.

For this edition, we’ve received lots of questions about New Year’s resolutions, so we invited our coaches to share their top tips for making meaningful resolutions. And, if your resolution is to not make any resolutions, then we hope these will inspire you.

For Life

My tip for 2023 around dating and relationships is to create a few small, doable goals that are a stretch yet still feel good and possible. Don’t create too many goals, as it can overwhelm you and become unattainable. Remember to give yourself lots of compassion, grace, and generosity when forwarding your dating and love life goals, as this area can be very emotionally charged. Then, celebrate each small milestone you achieve because the small steps create a big step forward towards a fun dating life and fulfilling love life.

- Coach Suzanne Muller

Speak kindly to yourself, and acknowledge your wins. Maybe in the past, you’ve stumbled and struggled to reach your goals in the New Year, and you felt ashamed, never fully measuring up to what you had hoped. This year, choose to chase your goals while operating from a place of compassion, kindness, and celebration rather than shame or regret.

Look for your wins each day—Nothing is too big or small to celebrate! Whether you’re developing new rhythms with your family, jumping back into the workforce postpartum, experiencing a new aspect of being a parent, or trying to create a routine of selfcare, acknowledge each moment of success. You talk to yourself more than anyone else does… Are you speaking encouragement, understanding, and kindness toward yourself, or are you using negativity, shame, or pressure to push you forward? Speak to yourself the same way you’d speak to someone you love—a child, spouse, partner, friend, or family member. Create space for self-compassion, and celebrate all the big and little moments that are building the foundation for your success.

- Coach Carli Ward

For the Soul

You are a powerful, electromagnetic being. Your thoughts and intentions are the electric signals that you send out into the world. Your feelings and emotions are magnetic vibrations that attract people and experiences to you. Pay attention to your feelings; listen to your heart, and follow your intuition, the voice of your soul. You have the power to combine your clear intentions and positive thoughts with the power of love and uplifting

emotions to create what your heart desires in your relationships and life. Learn how to manifest your healthy love and life goals and dreams from the inside out in 2023.

- Coach Sophia Rose, MCLC

Pay attention to every thought. You are what you think you are, no exceptions. Become your best stream of consciousness every day in 2023 and beyond. Learn how to make your 2023 New Year’s resolutions manifest through your personal powers and tools of creative visualization.

- Coach Steve Reinhart, Energy Healer, RMT, ARC

For Wellness

My advice for 2023 is to slow down and live life a little bit more mindfully and consciously. Taking just a few moments to slow down and grounding yourself in the moment, be it five to 10 minutes in the morning after you wake up or just a few minutes during the day (whatever time you have), to connect with your breath and fully being in the moment rather than rushing to the future will be a game changer.

The decisions and actions that come from a calm, centered and grounded place within yourself about your work, relationships, or even your next meal or drink are much more sound, satisfying, and authentic of your true identity than the ones that come from a state of rush, hustle, and stress. So center yourself a few times during the day by connecting to your breath and grounding yourself in the moment.

- Coach Neelofer Basaria, DrPH

When you have more money, you have more choices. Find tools and the support to help you develop more supportive money habits. The changes you seek are expressed with your New Year’s resolutions. This change doesn’t live in your willpower; it lives in your habits.

- Coach Jen Nash

For Work

In 2023, commit to a "One Thing Process" every day. Identify the one thing you will focus on and accomplish each day. Take the actions to complete that one thing early in the day when you're fresh. Then tackle the rest of your day as needed, planned, or scheduled.

- Coach Sylvia Henderson, MBA

Here at Ingomu, we uplift humankind by making a positive difference in the lives of many. Via the Ingomu app, we provide holistic and equitable coaching in the areas of life, soul, wellness, and work. Coaching for everyone because everyone matters.

Learn more at OFM.ingomu.com.

by

Step Into Your Power with SpookyGirl Andi Astra

Andi Astra, also known as SpookyGirl, caught up with OFM to give the down low on their creative side, from selling their witchy, Lisa Frank-inspired creations to starting an LGBTQ artist collective to help highlight aspiring talented individuals.

Who is SpookyGirl? How did you come up with your artist name?

I came up with that name because of the X Files. I think it's important to note that I did come up with this name when I was, like, 19, so it's very interesting that this name has followed me. When I came up with the name SpookyGirl, I had no idea, of course, that this would be my identifier for the next rest of my life. I love The X Files, and Mulder, the FBI agent who's obsessed with aliens, you know, they’re condemned to the basement, and the FBI, they call him Spooky Mulder. I loved that, and I chose SpookyGirl because of that, and I think since then, it has evolved to mean, you know, more than that. It also has to do with being that person that nobody else really gets and nobody else understands because of their interests.

How long have you been illustrating, and how has your craft evolved?

I've been illustrating for, gosh, a decade now. I've been illustrating professionally for the past, like, seven years. And as an artist, it's just one of those things that, it's always evolving. I think the challenge for artists is keeping things consistent. My style and what I'm interested in has changed a million times in the past seven years. I've been lucky enough to have my favorite colors that I use, and of course I love drawing cute girls in space and all of that. I think that stayed pretty true.

It's fun for me to go through my Instagram, and I'll go all the way back to the beginning. And you can see level up in moments. I think that SpookGirl also has changed just as I've grown. When I started this, I could have never imagined that my illustration career would

revolve around this kind of identity in this brand. In the beginning, there was less meaning to it, but now, I think it reflects a lot more of the person that I've become. I share more of my personal beliefs, my spirituality, and more words of encouragement, like things that I need to hear for myself.

How would you describe your artistic style?

I just did a video that I was incredibly proud of; it was with that Tik Tok sound with the people from Game of Thrones “Negroni… sbagliato with prosecco in it.” The sound was really blowing up in the gay community, and I used it to talk about my art style. I was so proud of it because I felt like it was really reaching my intended audience. I described it as Lisa Frank in outer space, but dark and witchy.

What would you say inspires you to create?

it's really just part of who I am, I think, as a person, and of course, I'm so fortunate to be able to do this now full time, and so my whole environment around me is created by me to inspire me. I think a lot of people ask that question of, “How do you wake up every day and make something new?” I think that people that I live with would probably like me to stop doing that because every day I wake up and I'm, like, building some absurd thing or, you know, start painting over a painting, and my roommates and my housemates are like, "What are you doing?"

I'm always inspired by stuff. If I had to pick specifically, cartoons, shows, and things—Steven Universe, Rick and Morty, or I find a lot of inspiration from comic books. I watch a ton of TV, and it's always stuff that, if you looked at my art and saw the stuff I was watching, you'd be like, OK, I kind of get it. So that helps me to just keep me inspired and coming up with new material. But I also have a very colorful home. I'm always making weird stuff. So even when I'm

Rachel Galstad

not drawing and illustrating, I kind of always have those creative juices flowing.

How did you get started designing illustrations for musicians?

So much has changed with the internet in the past five or six years when I was on Instagram, and I was growing my following. It was totally a different time. I would do illustrations of musicians, and I would tag them. It would always be people that I thought were really cool or people that resonated with me. Back in those days, it was a lot easier to get noticed for stuff like that. So that's kind of how I got into it.

I don't think people realize that I was maybe one of the first five illustrators on Instagram to be doing something like this. So when musicians would see fan art like that, it would really grab their attention. At the time, It was just amazing that I even got those gigs, but I think it was just that I've always been good at social media marketing and putting myself in the right place at the right time. So I got into that world by doing a couple strategic illustrations of musicians that I liked.

Tell me about the merchandise you design and sell; what does SpookyGirl have to offer?

In the new year, I’m scaling back and focusing on the products I love. Coloring books, prints, tapestries, rolling trays, you know, kind of fun stuff like that. I think my favorite products I have are these little stash bags, and I offer throw pillows; they are such a great way to just set a vibe.

Artistically, what are some goals you would like to accomplish?

I have all these different things that I could see myself doing, but I'm not married to any one of them. I love comic books. So I think abstractly, I would love to do an alternative cover for Marvel someday. But really what I'm most passionate about is building community and helping other people. I've been trying to build an artist’s community to help other people get started.

I've obviously found a lot of success in my career. And I think my biggest challenge over the past 10 years was building this business from nothing. I just want to turn around and help other people who've struggled with that type of stuff. I love teaching, and I love talking to people about art, whether it's drawing meetups, classes on social media, or whatever. My long-term goal and whatever form that takes is to just hang out with other people and facilitate the creation of art.

Why do you think it’s important to support small, marginalized businesses?

I think we always joke about the barter system and how that's what we want, right? We want to go back to that time where we just totally broke out of a capitalistic society, where we’re just exchanging, you know, baked goods or whatever. I think the first step towards that is buying from small businesses and supporting small businesses.

I mean, like, imagine a life where everything that you're getting from your clothes, your jewelry, your food at a farmers market,

is coming from an independent business or a small business within your community where people are putting their real energy into what they're creating for other people, or giving to other people.That's one of the first things I think of is supporting small businesses, especially marginalized businesses when we've had so much stacked against us and continue to be stacked against us. It's how to build community, I think.

Do you have any projects you're working on currently you’d like to tell us about?

Nothing too big. I've started a very small LGBTQ Artists Collective group here where I am in Honolulu called the Outer Rim, and right now it's just me and a couple of friends who are kind of living and working together intentionally with a focus on, of course, LGBTQ individuals, to support and uplift other queer people. So I'd say that's kind of my ongoing project. Building a community and a space for people to work is hard and it's something that requires a lot of planning, a lot of communication, and all that.

So in terms of artistic projects, I'm always working on cool stuff for ‘spooky girl’. I'm finishing up my zodiac collection. I did a whole astrology line, which has been a year long project.

Is there anything else we haven’t covered you’d like to share?

I'm really excited about this. I'm looking forward to having more opportunities to be in queer spaces!

Keep up with SpookyGirl on IG at SpookyGirlArt or her personal IG Andi_Astra_

by Denny Patterson

Denver Gay Men’s Chorus Artistic Director

James Knapp Announces Retirement

With more than 35 years of choral conducting experience leading university, church, and community choruses, James Knapp is in his 10th and final season at the helm of the Denver Gay Men’s Chorus (GMC).

He will officially be retiring as the organization’s artistic and managing director in July.

“I’m turning 65 in July, and I’ve been doing this for 41 years,” Knapp explains. “It’s just time. It’s been a wonderful experience, and I’ve loved being with the chorus. We’ve done some very important work together, but my partner and I are from New England, and all our family is back there. So, it was a family decision. I’m ready to pick my own projects and be able to manage my stress level a little bit more. Being with the chorus is a fulltime job.”

Knapp and his partner will be moving back to Maine, where he will teach some master classes and choral workshops.

His replacement has not yet been announced.

“I let the chorus know in late spring last year that I would be retiring, so they have plenty of time to find a very special fit,” Knapp says. “It’s not like hiring a CPA to add your staff or taxes. It’s a very specific and important marriage between the organization and the next artistic director. Not only is the artistic director in charge of all the performances, but there are so many more pieces, with collaborations, working with the community, and representing the organization in the city. It’s a pretty big deal.”

As a passionate campaigner for stylistic diversity within choral singing, Knapp has a unique approach to activist choral singing. He comes with 20 years of experience with GALA Choruses (Gay and Lesbian Association of Choruses,)

having also been the artistic director of the Gay Men’s Chorus of Houston (2001-2009) and the founding director of the Bayou City Women’s Chorus (2005-2009).

His choruses have appeared at Carnegie Hall, regional conventions of the American Choral Directors Association, and performed concert tours throughout Britain, Europe, and Russia.

Out of everything, Knapp says he will miss the sense of community associated with the Denver GMC most of all.

“It has always been very important to me that we serve our community,” he proclaims. “We have also been very proactive in going outside of the LGBTQ community, not at the expense of, but in addition to. Each year for the past several years, we’ve designated a marginalized community to collaborate on a concert with. We’ve worked with the homeless community and those dealing with housing insecurity; we’ve worked with the Hispanic community celebrating Latino and Hispanic artists, so I hope the organization continues to meet at this crossroad of arts and activism. I do think they go hand-in-hand.”

Knapp fully believes that social activism element is what makes the Denver GMC stand out from other choruses.

“Yes, we have fun; we sing Broadway, and we sing Pride songs, but we are constantly strengthening the social justice aspect of our work in the community,” he says. “I believe that’s what makes our organization different. The Denver GMC was founded in 1982, so this is not new to them. During the AIDS crisis, during political upheavals, when a tragedy happens like Club Q or Orlando, we have been out there in the community. I also hope that’s my

lasting legacy. Not only are we striving to achieve music at its highest level, but also having a strong message behind that and weaving together social activism by being involved with the communities.”

Thanks to Knapp’s hard work and contributions over the years, he has been the recipient of several awards and accolades. Houston Mayor Bill White proclaimed June 9 as “James Knapp Day,” and U.S. Representative Sheila Jackson Lee awarded Knapp the Certificate of Congressional Recognition from the U.S. House of Representatives for artistic excellence

Additionally, he was elected as Grand Marshall for the Houston Pride Parade in 2009 and won the 2022 Denver Mayor Award for Excellence in Arts & Culture.

“At the end of the day, what’s important to me is making a difference, but it certainly is an honor to be recognized like this,” Knapp says.

Even though Knapp is stepping away from the Denver GMC, he hopes that it will have a greater presence in the city’s educational institutions and continue to evolve in its inclusivity.

“There has been a big change in the face of the chorus over the last 10 years,” he recalls. “It has become a much more diverse chorus. We have every walk of life in terms of identity and orientation, and I hope the chorus continues to build on that. It is known as the Denver GMC, but we have opened our doors to all people including gay women, nonbinary, and trans singers.”

Knapp only has a couple concerts left, but the one he is looking forward to the most is the upcoming Disney Pride in Concert, scheduled for March

LGBTQ life, love, family, and perseverance.

“Disney movies and musicals have really resonated deeply with the LGBTQ community because they kind of mirror our experiences of society,” Knapp continues. “Whether it’s Ariel, Belle, or Quasimodo, these characters are struggling to fit in and trying to accept themselves. This show is a beautifully crafted piece of art and choral theater, and what’s really cool is, they’ve opened up their whole catalog. We chose several numbers, and audiences can expect a multimedia extravaganza. There will be 120 voices, a 25-piece orchestra, choreography, and Disney opened up their vaults for us to use visual assets from the Disney films.”

Due to licensing and copyright, the Denver GMC cannot make any changes to the songs or choreography, but they are allowed to provide the narrative of the show.

“Getting permission from Disney is like an act of Congress, but I’m very excited that we were able to have liberty with the narrative,” Knapp concludes. “I believe there’s five different points in the concert where personal stories from an array of diverse chorus members will be interwoven with a musical number. It’s going to be showcasing the individual’s story and the meaning and connections to these timeless and universal Disney themes. We have the opportunity to showcase the stories of our chorus members, and I am so happy that this is a concert I get to be a part of before retiring.”

For more information about the Denver GMC and to purchase tickets for the upcoming Disney Pride in Concert, visit denverchoruses.org.

Photos courtesy of Denver Gay Men's Chorus

by

Denny Patterson

The Golden Girls will forever be legends, but we now have four new elders to fall in love with.

Known by their social media handle, “The Old Gays,” Robert Reeves (79), Bill Lyons (78), and Michael “Mick” Peterson (67) share a house in Cathedral City, California, while Jessay Martin (69) resides across the street. The four have created a chosen family for themselves in this sunny oasis near Palm Springs where they fully support one another and share their lives with millions of followers on TikTok.

“We aren’t an act,” Peterson says. “We’re just best friends who spend a lot of time together and enjoy making videos.”

Reeves first met Lyons in the 1980s when they were both living in San Francisco. They independently moved to the desert and connected again in 2005. Peterson came into the picture in 2013 after answering a Craigslist ad saying Reeves had a room available to rent in his house, and Martin moved to the neighborhood shortly after.

The four have been fast friends ever since.

It wasn’t until 2018 when the world began to know who they were. The group connected with a younger neighbor named Ryan Yezak, who now serves as their producer and manager. He began creating videos of the guys for Grindr’s YouTube channel, often in the form of hilarious roundtables where they dissected younger queer terms like “thirsty” and RuPaul’s Drag Race viewing.

After becoming an immediate hit, Yezak helped set them up on other social media platforms, and the Old Gays were born.

“I didn’t really ask them to go on social media,” he explains. “It just happened because they were so curious about it. I started recording them and throwing up footage, like a behind-thescenes look at their lives, and they went viral.”

The Old Gays currently have over 9 million followers on TikTok, their account full of viral dances, skits, costume changes, and lip syncs. However, they also reflect and share stories about coming out, their lives as younger men, dating at an older age, and frank discussions about growing older.

Of course, internet fame was not a milestone any of the guys anticipated for their careers.

“I think we are all still amazed and baffled, but at the same time, we like it,” Reeves says. “We’re excited about it, and we appreciate being in a position of offering our sage advice and variances to others.

“I’m still overwhelmed by the whole thing, but the fact that we’re making so many people happy is just a very rewarding feeling,” Lyons adds.

Whether they’re dancing to Lizzo’s “About Damn Time” or collaborating with high-profile celebrities like Paula Abdul, Lance Bass, or Drew Barrymore, the Old Gays are showing their fans what it means to age gracefully in their own way. As

influencers, one of the most frequent comments they receive is, ‘I didn’t think old gays existed.’

“I hope audiences take away from our content that there is life after 60,” Reeves says. “Even though we all have health issues, we still find lots of humor in life, and we enjoy ourselves. I think it’s important to show that to younger people. Be like, hey, there’s not a door that’s going to shut.”

They also acknowledge that ageism is still very much prevalent today, and they believe their videos are helping to bridge the disconnect between older and younger generations.

“I think that’s one of the biggest things that’s come out of this,” Lyons says. “Especially when we found out that our main demographic is women between the ages of 20 to 30, that was absolutely amazing to me. A lot of the comments we receive say they aspire to be like us when they get to our age.”

Martin adds, “It’s interesting how many people think we’re dead. We’re definitely not dead.”

“I think a big part of that has to do with the AIDS epidemic that wiped out so many of our generation,” Reeves concludes. “There’s so few of us carrying on.”

When it comes to making videos, the four agree that it can be difficult keeping up with the latest trends, but they are always up for a challenge.

“Ryan pretty much helps us stay on top of trends,” Reeves says.

“No, Ryan keeps us, not helps us,” Martin jokes.

While dances require a lot of time and rehearsals, the interviews with Yezak are done in one take.

“I would say that we don't do any fortuitous trending,” Peterson laughs. “I mean, when it comes to taking our clothes off and showing our tits, no problem. There are some trends that I wouldn't want to be a part of, but the ones we are inspired by, we like to

put our own spin on them.” Their most popular and most viewed videos have to do with their pasts about when they were young.

“I think some people don’t realize that we were once young,” Martin explains. “When I was young, I thought my parents were always old, so now they’re getting to see us. I’ve also been learning about myself going back through history. Getting from Tennessee to where I am now, that story has been wonderful. I learned for the first time this year to love my father. He’s been dead since 1971, but I was angry with him. We did this Father’s Day thing, and it opened me up. Like, why am I still this angry? He’s dead, so I’m wasting that energy.”

Reeves, Lyons, and Peterson have also had similar experiences and agree that achieving viral fame has also been therapeutic in ways.

“Part of this journey has been about trying to reveal layers and layers about themselves in incremental ways,” Yezak says. “For the audiences to get to know the guys through TikTok trends, photographs, and pieces of information. They recently received a comment that said, ‘Wow, living life without worrying about who doesn’t like it.’ I love that sort of fearless feedback because I think that really encompasses who they are and that strikes something with their following. They’re inspiring others to be as fearless as they are. We are still exploring and constantly figuring out what we want to share next and how we want to share it based on whatever trends are happening or creative ideas.”

The Old Gays also have some solid advice to offer that should be followed by everyone. As they say, it’s always best to listen to your elders.

"It’s going to get better, and it’s going to get worse, but most importantly, live in the present. Learn to live for now because you're not even promised tomorrow.

"Accept self-criticism graciously because when people are being critical

of you in some respect, it may not be to tear you down, but rather to help make you better. Therefore, listen to what others say.

"Give criticism in a gentle way. Talk to, not talk at.

"Whatever you do, make sure you have a passion for it. If you have a passion for something, you’re going to be successful."

Additionally, the group has also been highlighting major issues that LGBTQ elders are facing today, one of them being a lack of LGBTQowned or LGBTQ-catered nursing home facilities.

Peterson can speak from experience about that.

“I spent 100 days in 2019 in a nursing home recovering from a very serious fall,” he says. “It was pretty scary. It’s a warehouse kind of thing, and it’s also attrition. You were being basically warehoused until you died, and that's a sad thing. I never gave up hope in there. I trusted in fate that I would get out of there, but from what I've seen, it's not a place where I really want to go back to.”

In terms of the future, there is talk of a potential docuseries about the Old Gays, but overall, Reeves, Lyons, Peterson, and Martin hope to continue having fun while also being positive role models and educating others.

“We’ve all led some very interesting lives,” Reeves says. “Through our lives, we’ve learned a lot of good and bad, and there’s a lot we can pass on in a 15-to-30 second TikTok video. We want to get to a point where we can dig deeper, and I think that is our primary goal moving forward.”

“We hope to continue to peel back the layers of these guys because there’s so much more about their lives we want to dive into, and we want to do it in the most compelling way,” Yezak adds.

Stay up-to-date and connect with the foursome by following them on Instagram @theoldgays and TikTok @oldgays.

Photos courtesy of The Old Gays

OFM NEW MUSIC

by Eric Farwell

White Reaper Asking for a Ride

The power-rock band returns with a new record that blends 80s pop, power ballads, and classic rock know-how into one brilliantly fun sound. On single “Pages,” the band puts its fingerprints on the soft rock love songs you’ve heard from the likes of Rod Stewart and Boston, injecting them with a sharpness and 2022 sensibility with a clever guitar line and yelping, Wavves-esque vocals. If you’re looking to bond with a dad who is over Wilco, or a mom that sort of liked Eliot Smith, Asking for a Ride is something to bond over in the new year.

Releases January 27

King Tuff Smalltown Stardust

With its lo-fi, fuzzed out production, one could easily mistake Smalltown Stardust for a Beatles b-side compilation or an album from one of the heralded bands off the classic Nuggets garage rock album. The truth is that the album packs so much magic into each song that it’s hard to keep up. “Portrait of God” is undercut by late Queen-esque harmonie and early Queen-esque guitar riffs (seemingly right down to the tone). Other tracks stray into more straightforward pop, folk, and psychedelia until the album fades as one gorgeous, genre-hopping ride.

Releases January 27

Fran Leaving

One of the pleasures of current indie music is getting to see a new generation of woman and nonbinary artists show just how expansive the sounds of St. Vincent and Yeah, Yeah, Yeahs can be. Wunderkind Fran fits in well with Phoebe Bridgers and Lucy Dacus, but is able to lay claim to a wider pop palette on par with what Brandi Carlile conjures at her best. Her latest effort is patient and romantic, swooning and slow in equal measure. While this could describe more than one act, Fran’s voice, honeyed and weary, whiskey-tinged and warm, breaks through as its own bright beautiful thing on tracks like “Limousine” and “So Long.”

Releases January 20

Sam Smith Gloria

The reigning sovereign of stately pop is back with a collection of songs that are sensual, brooding, and playful in equal measure. “Love Me More,” the album’s opening track, is a Backstreet Boys throwback complete with a skipping lead melody, whispery choruses with echo-y effects, and a beat that threatens to be too hip, but Smith never lets it get away from them. As always, Smith is a great barometer for where pop music stands, and if Gloria is to be believed, its future is ambitious, retro-tinged, and sexy as hell.

Releases January 27

Margo Price Strays

It’s tempting to place Margo Price in the same lineage as Dolly Parton, who is an equally formidable artist, but Price is much more textured and off-kilter than she’s given credit for. On “Change of Heart,” a Southern rock guitar lick sidles up next to a bouncing keyboard run that wouldn’t be out of place on a They Might Be Giants cut. The album only gets weirder (and better) from there.

Releases January 13

RuPaul Black Butta

The controversial superstar is back with a new album that asks the listener to put away any biases and enjoy the winter with some campy holiday verve. “Star Baby” is a gorgeous affirmation built out of the bones of golden-era Daft Punkand Chemical Brothers-adjacent tracks. Imagine a world where Cartoon Network still streamed anime music videos late at night as part of Toonami. Now, imagine if instead of house DJs and remixed tracks, the songs were courtesy of RuPaul. If this makes you smile, get the whole damn album, and feel good all winter with this as your constant soundtrack.

Releases January 6

This month’s must-catch, new releases from the artists you already love and the musicians you need to know.

January 2023

Horoscopes

by Alanna L.P.

Welcome to Alanna L.P.’s Uplifting Horoscopes. These are very general readings that will resonate with many but not all of you. That’s OK! Take away what makes sense, and leave what doesn’t behind. If you want a deeper understanding of what to expect this month, read your sun sign, your rising sign, and your moon sign.

You can find what those are by going to cafeastrology.com to get a free birth chart reading.

Aries

A change in your financial health is just around the corner, dear Aries. If you’re spreading yourself too thin, lightening the load will give you time to pursue what you seek in 2023.

Mantra: 6 of Wands “Watch me land on my feet.”

Taurus

If you’re feeling confused about your place in the world, dear Gemini, it may be time to take some space. You’ll get a better view of the big picture by taking a step back. There’s nothing wrong with a little escape every now and then. Whether it’s exploring a new neighborhood in your town or booking an international trip, you’ll learn something new by trying something new.

Mantra: 7 of Cups “I want to get away, I want to fly away.” - Lenny Kravitz

Gemini

Get ready to embrace self-discovery in the arms of a lover, dear Gemini. January is going to be spicy. Breaking patterns brings new opportunities to deepen intimacy. Make your dreams a reality in the bedroom, and see what doors open in the morning.

Mantra:10 of Cups “This is my happy ending.”

Cancer

It’s time for a love revolution, Dear Cancer. You’re going to love how deep you get one-onone this month. Let your spirit guide you to the soul connection you’re seeking because there is someone waiting to sweep you off your feet!

Mantra: 8 of Wands “Shot through the heart, and you’re to blame.” - Bon Jovi

Leo

Take that junk out to the curb; don’t bring it into the new year with you, Dear Leo. Shedding psychic garbage will improve your overall health. You know you’re destined for this, so go for it!

Mantra: 8 of Pentacles “Now is the right time.”

Virgo

Take a risk on an intellectual love this month, Dear Virgo. Finding someone special isn’t always just about looks. Lighten up, and enjoy all the possibilities that lay before you. If you’ve been dating around, you may find yourself slipping into a long-term relationship whether you’re looking for a partner or not!

Mantra: Seven of Cups “Love is letting go of control.”

Libra

This holiday season was so peaceful and serene that you’d like it to last all year! You can savor that holiday, lingering sense of joy by resolving any hang ups you may have with loved ones. You’re absolutely glowing, so if you’re looking for romance and a little bit of action, make sure to get those flirts in! You’ll be happy you did. You may just meet someone who may just keep coming home with you.

Mantra: “King of Swords “I have no expectations.”

Scorpio

If you’re looking for a New Year’s Resolution, dear Scorpio, you should consider working on your time management. You’ll find life is a lot more enjoyable if you take time to enjoy it.

Mantra: Page of Cups “I am my most important passion.”

Sagittarius

If you’re fed up with the status quo, dear Sagittarius, now is time to take control. If you have extra money, by all means, pamper yourself, but you may wish you’d saved for a rainy day further down the line.

Mantra: Two of Pentacles “I am in harmony with my finances.”

Capricorn

Happy birthday, dear January Capricorns! We love your wit and wisdom! We know you love hard work, but take time to celebrate you this month! Play your cards right with your finances this month, and you'll have your cake and eat it too. There’s no need to work yourself to death to get what you want. If you’re looking for a relationship, you can’t fall in love if you’re too busy to notice it.

Mantra: Ace of Cups “Love takes time.”

Aquarius

Happy birthday January Aquarius! We love that you’re a mover and a shaker! Celebrate you by taking a breather to rest and recharge. Having a low-key birthday where you focus on you is just what you need to get 2023 off on the right foot.

Mantra: Healer of Pentacles This year is my year to heal.

Pisces

You’re a natural pacemaker, dear Pisces, so it’s OK to let go and trust in 2023. As long as you set firm boundaries, you’ll have a solid foundation to build your empire on.

Mantra: Defender of Swords “I’ve waited long enough.”

That's a Beautiful Name...

Now Remove My Clothes

“Hey there.”

“Are you talking to me?”

“No. I’m talking to the other loner-looking, Wednesday Addams wannabe sitting in the back corner of the bar sipping their Black Widow cocktail.”

“Ouch, and you are?”

“Annoyed. Sorry, you’re like the fifth person I’ve helped tonight.”

“Helped?”

“Yeah. I’m going to show you what would happen if you got off your ass and walked up to that person at the other end of the bar and actually brought them home after you finally ordered them a drink. Oh, by the way, their name is Elana”

“How did you… ?”

By Alex Burnel

Like I said, I’ve done this before. Close your eyes; take a deep breath, and let it out slowly…

“Babe. Hey babe!”

“What?”

“Are you going to let us in?”

“Huh?”

“We’ve been standing outside of your apartment now for a little bit, and I kind of thought you wanted to go in.”

I can’t believe this is really happening. I don’t know who that was or what they did, but whatever happened, they were right. Elana and I were now at my apartment. I let us in, and as I shut the door, she turned me around quickly and pressed me up against the wall, and we started making out.

They stepped back and pulled my black dress up and over my head, then tossed it to the floor.

“Now remove my clothes.”

I realized I may have forgotten to introduce myself, and I told them my name was Julieta.

“That’s a beautiful name Julieta, now remove my clothes.”

They took a step back again and asked if I liked what I saw. I was unable to answer, clearly staring at the best pair of breasts I’ve ever seen. They smiled and told me to go ahead and touch them; they felt even better than they looked. I placed my face in the dead center of their supple, pouting breasts. I traced every inch of their breasts with my tongue, and I noticed it was something I could do all night. They slid off my panties with their foot as they took off my bra.

Elana slid a couple of their fingers into my vagina. Their fingers seemed to be navigated by each moan I was producing. My breathing was increasing, and beads of sweat were cascading down my body. They were getting to know parts of my body in a way I never have.

Elana looked me in the eyes and whispered, “Tonight is about you.” They got onto their knees and slid their tongue into my vagina, grabbing an ass cheek with each hand. My

head flung back, and I pulled her head in even more. The amount of pleasure I was feeling was something I couldn’t remember experiencing before. This could be because maybe the people I’ve been with in the past just didn’t know how to eat out, and Elana definitely does.

They kept using their tongue and also started working their fingers into the mix. This is so hot; I can’t believe this is happening. I kept telling them, “Fuck yes!”

“I’m not going to stop. Trust me, I won’t stop until you finish."

They traced my nipples with their tongue and grabbed a firm hold of both breasts. They stood up and started making out with me. We started to grind, and I moaned loud while we were kissing so they wouldn’t break away. Elana slipped a finger in, and my eyes rolled back. My body started to shake, and sweat was covering our bodies. I felt a little lightheaded, but not in the bad way. I felt like I needed to brace myself because I could tell we weren’t quite to the end yet.

“Oh my... god! I… I can’t... Elana, you. are. amazing!”

“I’m glad you’re enjoying this. That’s all I wanted. I wanted you to experience the best pleasure I could give you. Are you enjoying yourself?”

“Yes! So, so much! The combinations you’re working in are leaving me speechless.”

“Good. That’s what I want to hear, the sounds of the pleasure you’re experiencing. Are you getting close?”

“Oh my god, yes. Every time I feel I’m about to orgasm, you pull back.”

“Of course I do. I want you to experience as much pleasure as possible. Are you ready? Are you ready for the release?”

“Yes please babe! I’m so fucking read...”

I didn’t have time to finish what I was about to say. They slid their pointer and middle fingers back up and were now wiggling all over my G-spot. I guess they weren’t lying, They really were holding back.

"Oh! My! Elana!"

I opened my eyes, and I was bracing myself in my seat. I was back in the bar, and my drink was still in front of me. The only difference was, Elana’s number was on the napkin under my drink.

“So, now are you going to go over to get them that drink?”

OFM

BAR TAB | Colorado Nightlife

BLUSH & BLU

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

BOYZTOWN

117 Broadway St. Denver (303) 722-7373 boyztowndenver.com

ClUB Q

CHARLIE DWELLINGTON’S

1103 N. 1st St. Grand Junction (970) 241-4010 charliedwellingtons.com

CHARLIE’S NIGHTCLUB

900 E. Colfax Ave. Denver (303) 839-8890 charliesdenver.com

DENVER SWEET

776 N. Lincoln St. Denver (720) 598-5648 denversweet.com

HAMBURGER MARY’S

1336 E. 17th Ave. Denver (303) 993-5812 hamburgermarys.com/denver

HELL OR HIGH WATER TIKI

1526 Blake St. Denver (720) 573-0626 hellorhighwatertiki.com

ICONS

3 E. Bijou St. Colorado Springs (719) 300-7863 Instagram- @icons_colorado

LI’L DEVILS

255 S. Broadway St. Denver (303) 733-1156 Facebook- @lildevilslounge

R&R LOUNGE

4958 E. Colfax Ave. Denver (303) 320-9337 Facebook- @randrdenver

TIGHT END BAR

1501 E. Colfax Ave. (303) 861-9103 tightendbar.com

TRACKS

3500 Walnut St. Denver (303) 836-7326 tracksdenver.com

WILD CORGI PUB

1223 E. 13th Ave. Denver (303) 832-7636 wildcorgipub.com

THU:

7p-10p

&

EL POTRERO

4501 E. Virginia Ave. Glendale (303) 388-8889 Facebook- @elpotreroclub

TRADE

475 Santa Fe Dr. Denver (720) 627-5905 Facebook- @tradedenver

THE TRIANGLE BAR

2036 N. Broadway St. Denver (303) 658-0913 triangledenver.com

829 E. Colfax Ave. Denver (303) 832-2687 xbardenver.com

#VYBE

X BAR 1027 N. Broadway St. Denver (720) 573-8886 303vybe.com