November 2023 :: Thanks... I'm Giving

TABLE OF CONTENTS

VOLUME 47 NUMBER 08 NOVEMBER 2023

06 OFM ART • Comic Strip

• Word Search

07 From The Editor 11 OFM Culture

• Bye Bye Plastic • Thanks... I'm Giving: The Ultimate Queer Nonprofit Rundown

18 Photo Gallery • Thanks I'm Giving Photo Shoot

22 OFM Thoughts

• What it’s Like Being a Queer, Tattooed Punk Rocker at a Black Tie Gala

26 OFM Thoughts • November Horoscopes

Photo by Ivy Owens 4 OFM NOVEMBER 2 0 2 3

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PHIL PRICE 1954-1993 ADMINISTRATION INFO@OUTFRONTMAGAZINE.COM CO-PUBLISHER MAGGIE PHILLIPS CO-PUBLISHER ADDISON HERRON-WHEELER CHIEF STRATEGIST LANI LANGTON EDITORIAL EDITORIAL@OUTFRONTMAGAZINE.COM EDITOR-IN-CHIEF ADDISON HERRON-WHEELER CELEBRITY CORRESPONDENT DENNY PATTERSON INTERNS ALETTE ALDRITCH, BRYNNE POPP, IVY OWENS, JULIANNA O'CLAIR, JULIE

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Diversions Word Search - Dr. Eric Cervini

Find the words in the list on the right hiding across, backwards, up, down and Dr. Eric/Cervini diagonally in the grid. Words separated by a slash “/” are found individually in the (Born in) California puzzle. Words in parentheses “( )” are not in the puzzle. The unused letters starting (Raised in) Round/Rock (TX) at top left and going down by row will reveal a quote by him!

LGBTQ/Author/Historian

E N I L N O M R C

A B S U M M A A I

I O O T C W T I G

N O S O S T T N A

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D N U O R K O T K B A B M G

I I S T O F N D I S C O V E R F Y

T D G E F A F O C L H W O A E T

S H A I I I G I O H I O N E E E

R P T V L R M S A H N K P M S I

E I E M A O E R L A E R M U H C

D D S P C T V S D G O Y B I R O

N N H R E A A R U H B K S E O S

U Y K O R E E A T C O T Z T C U

O R A D V R T U U O O T Q H K L

F O M U I C A M B R I D G E R P

Q T E C N E L E I L E M

U S N E I A H A U

E I Y R U T N P K

E H A D V I S O R T C E

R E E U Q P O H S W O T

Emmy/Pulitzer (Nominated) Mattachine/Society/Advisor Harvard (Graduate) Summa/Cum Laude Gates (Scholarship) PhD in/History (from) Cambridge (University) (The) Magic/Closet (YT) (NYT Bestseller:) (The) Deviant’s War Biography (of) Frank/Kameny Founder/ShopQueer(.co) Online/Bookshop Creator/Producer The Book/Of Queer Comic/Docuseries (on) Discovery/Plus Rainbow/Book Bus(.org) Book Fair (Bookmobile) Visit Facebook.com/DiversionsPuzzles for more free puzzles & book info!

KEEP GIVING W

elcome, beautiful queer fam, to our Thanks, I’m Giving issue! As the name implies, this issue, and all our online content this month, is about giving back and supporting nonprofits.

I’m sure I don’t have to tell y’all that with the current state of the world, the country, and queer rights, nonprofit work is more important than ever to our community. And recent personal events have also underscored for me the need for community, connection, and to elevate the queer experience.

But of course, we can’t keep it all serious—Life is too short not to have a little fun. So let our daddy vibes Thanksgiving photo shoot warm your heart as Dustin Schlong guides you through the nonprofit list like a late-night TV host. And, as always, there are some other great goodies in store in these pages.

So, this November, remember to give back and give thanks, no matter what that looks like for you. If you don’t have the money to support queer nonprofits, there are plenty of other ways to support, like volunteering and sharing information. Here’s to reclaiming the season and staying thankful!

-Addison Herron-Wheeler

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by Brynne Popp

by Brynne Popp

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Photos Courtesy of Samantha Photos courtesy of Bye Bye PlasticHines Photography

Bye Bye Plastic is Serving an Alternative to Single-Use

S

ingle-use plastic is wreaking havoc for our planet in so many different ways. Plastics are not just a waste or health problem, but single-use plastic is an extremely serious environmental threat. If that’s not enough of a convincing factor to make you want to stop using plastic, it is estimated that by 2050, there will be more plastic waste in the ocean than there are fish.

However, there are incredible organizations that are fighting to combat this trend, like Bye Bye Plastic Foundation, who’s mission is to remove single-use plastics within the music industry.

Bye Bye Plastic was created by co-founders Vivie-ann Bakos, whom you may also know as the sensational Canadian DJ and music producer BLOND:ISH, and Camille Guitteau.

OFM got a chance to catch up with Camille to ask her a couple questions about her and BLOND:ISH’s inspiration behind Bye Bye Plastic, what progress they have made so far, and what the organization hopes to accomplish in the future.

Where did Bye Bye Plastic start?

Well, if you ask “where exactly," the answer is “on the web!" It started out of BLOND:ISH’s brain, and then was quite an insane “planetary alignment” moment.When it got time to register, Bye Bye Plastic started in Europe, and over here in Europe, we're registered as a nonprofit, public benefit organization in the Netherlands. And we've always been international from the get-go because this is also the organic nature of the music industry. So we wanted to make sure that we could answer and service a large regional or geographic area basically. So very quickly, we knew that we had to step up and expand, so it's

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kind of the opposite from what other businesses would do where you would start local and expand from there.

We kind of started internationally from the get-go. But yeah, from Western Europe, we opened a sister entity in the U.S. (501c3), and we’re now active throughout the U.S.

moments, basically, that we've all experienced on our own scales whether once or 100 times. This unique, connecting power of music is exactly what we wanted to tap into.

What was the inspiration behind Bye Bye Plastic?

Basically BLOND:ISH and I came up with the same conclusion about what needed to change in our scene, just from two opposite sides of the dance floor! BLOND:ISH started noticing and getting sad at the amount of plastic bottles and cups being swooshed away after her closing sets would end. As a dancer, I was on that dance floor, and I felt forced to stomp on plastics instead of being able to dance freely. I was working in the music business for some time already. I took a break to think through what would be my next chapter. And in this chapter, I knew I would have to put some purpose and thought into it.

I realized that, you know, the lowest priority for a lot of people is the environment, especially plastic and plastic waste.

How has Bye Bye Plastic been received so far in the EDM music industry?

It's been received really well. That was also the purpose of our first viral movement, the Eco-Rider, which was the initiation of Bye Bye Plastic as a collective, and we wanted to activate every stakeholder of the music industry. It starts with artists and DJs because they have this power of influence over their communities, their fans, and also the music event professionals. So we wanted to find small, actionable steps for them to implement first. And we came up with the Eco-Rider, which in essence is a small addendum to their usual rider, technical and hospitality rider. This is the document artists provide at any event or festival that books them, basically telling the production team what their needs are. So this Eco-Rider document requests for no single-use plastic to be used in the DJ booth and in the green room, etc.

At the same period, BLOND:ISH got into the same kind of mindset about what should be done about plastic in the scene: We realized that the music and events sector had not only a responsibility like every other sector, but also has a unique opportunity to actually be changing the narrative creatively and positively. So this is what we think is the unique power of music, the social connector of live

This small step was just so easy and simple to implement that you can't say no if you share similar values. So that's how we really rallied the community, and in turn, we helped them to wake artists up to the power of their collective voice. Because we really did a strong amount of background work to synchronize everyone and make sure that everyone would post about it in the same moment,

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the same day, and that really made an enormous wave, basically, which triggered this movement of change.

What are some of the challenges that Bye Bye Plastic has faced besides the obvious use of plastic waste?

I think everywhere, there is this little human condition of being set in your ways or being relatively adverse to changing them in the first place. And the single-use (plastic) culture is so easy to fall into and so easy to discard or hide, or not see the adverse effects of. So it's really to make a conscious effort to bring it in front of your eyes and in front of your mind as well. There is a lot of excitement and enthusiasm for sustainability but they're is also a certain amount of understanding about it that is needed when it comes down to it.

It requires engagement of different stakeholder levels, and it requires tremendous amounts of research, and sometimes it’s met with this resistance to longer-term changes.

You know, we as an industry are an industry of high and fast consumption, and have historically tied financial relationships with heavily fossil fuel-related industries. So, it's also a long-term and a very strong conscious effort that we need to make in order to step out of that.

What are the plans for the future and how would you like to expand Bye Bye Plastic?

We have a few ideas and areas for expansion. First, I would say what's so interesting, in a lot of ways, but not really surprising, is that from the get-go, we have received so many reactions from the community on a global level saying, “You need to come here; you need to work over here in this region, that region, etc”. And it's not like it came as a surprise for us that plastic is everywhere. Turns out, who knew? A few regions and countries we're looking to expand into would be Canada and Mexico.

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We’re also starting to work with Turkey and Egypt, and we're really proud of starting those conversations over there! So these are the regions where we're actively looking to to help music events transition out of single-use plastic. We are also looking to structure a little bit further our activities into funded programs that could help alleviate the costs or entry into transition for certain events, and really help them to make those sustainable choices.

There's another project that we're also looking to fund further and to help create offline iterations for, basically, which is our Stay’ge Positive program. This program was a learning pod empowering artists to grow their climate influence. Stay’ge Positive is crafted specifically for artists who are looking to become climate creatives. So to say, artists who are climate conscious, who want to use their voice for environmental change, but don't really have the tools and understanding on how to do this, basically.

So what we've done is, we've created this program to empower them to grow into their own unique and influential voice through step-by-step modules. From going back to the basics and understanding the dynamics of climate change, how to think this through, how to think critically, where to look for the right sources, etc. It’s like a journey into the self. What are the things that move you the most?

What are the things that actually make you care, and why should you continue to care and what levels of emotion do you have to put in there in order for you to take this into your own career and creative practice and find your

own tone of voice and your own leverages within this big dynamic and this big change that we're all enduring basically.

How can your followers, our readers, and anyone else get engaged?

Well, there’s the obvious, like engaging on social media, following, sharing, commenting, all of those things do matter to show your interest and show the cause matters big time. You can also use your voice, whether it’s sharing to your community, to the events that you go to and that you attend, make your voice heard, and make it clear to the organizers that you love the festivals you are attending but are not OK with the amount of plastic that's on the dance floor. Tell them, let them know, and it can be done from a place of care and intentionality, in a collective, creative way. And you know, when you do so, you can obviously mention Bye Bye Plastic and what we are doing, tell them we can help them make those changes. You can also volunteer to come help power the #PlasticFreeParty with us at an event near you! We’re active in so many cities that we’re always on the lookout for eco-minded buddies. Another complementary and equally important way can be donating or creating a fundraiser on social media or a fundraising event like a race or a party to help fuel the change. And of course, more than anything, refuse, and reduce, fossil-fuel plastic use.

To learn more, donate, or find some eco-friendly and sustainable plastic alternatives, go to byebyeplastic.life.

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I

t’s November, and whether or not you believe that the story of the first Thanksgiving is a sham (it is), it’s still an appropriate time to reflect on what you’re thankful for and give back to others who are struggling. At OFM, we’re thankful for all the important queer organizations in our community doing important work for queer people. For this November, we’re highlighting all the most important LGBTQ+-centric nonprofit organizations that are doing important work in Colorado. Whether you have the time or money to donate or volunteer with them, or if you are a person that needs the services they provide, there's something for everyone on this list.

PFLAG: PFLAG is the nation’s largest (and one of the oldest, with a

Thanks...

founding date of 1973) organization dedicated to supporting, educating, and advocating for LGBTQ+ people. The organization was founded by a mother and her gay son and now has multiple chapters nationwide, with eight in Colorado alone. In-person and virtual meetings are designed to provide peer-to-peer support for the queer community, and a host of virtual resources on PFLAG’s website offer support on coming out, finding community, and supporting trans and LGBTQ+ loved ones through allyship.

The website also has up-to-date information on legislative issues that directly impact the queer community.

I'm Giving: The Ultimate Queer Nonprofit Rundown

by Julie River and Julianna O'Clair

Colorado Name Change Project: For transgender people, trying to get your

name changed is a complicated, Kafkaesque maze of bureaucratic nonsense. Luckily, we have the Colorado Name Change Project to make things a little bit easier.

Their website is filled with flow charts and step-by-step guides of how to get your name changed legally in the state of Colorado. They also hold workshops to explain the process, their website can auto-generate some of the necessary forms for you, and they even offer microgrants to help cover the costs of name changes. Trying to get through the process is a lot easier when you have their guidance, and I (Julie) say that from personal experience. I probably never would have gotten my name legally changed without them, and I’m very grateful for that.

One Colorado: One Colorado is an advocacy organization committed to advancing equality for LGBTQ+ Coloradoans, and providing free educational resources and training so others can do the same. The organization is known for fiercely lobbying local governments to expand pro-equality legislation, and it has worked—One Colorado has helped codify 18 pieces of pro-equality legislation over the last 12 years. This year, the organization partnered with state leaders and the Safe Access to Health Care Coalition to incorporate gender-affirming care into Colorado insurance policies and protect gender-affirming care providers in Colorado. One Colorado also has a Political Action Committee and Legislation Tracker. The organization follows legislation that impacts LGBTQ+ people and endorses candidates who are pro-equality, providing voters with much-needed clarity for an informed vote. Its website also has a list of approved representatives, from the State Board of Education to the Senate.

Transgender Center of the Rockies: The Transgender Center of the Rockies, formerly the Gender Identity Center, is one of the oldest trans-related nonprofits in Colorado and, on a personallevel, is the first place I (again, Julie) turned to when I was coming to terms with my own transgender identity. Started all the way back in 1978 during the stone ages of queer rights, they have been providing gender-affirming services ever since. Today the 1 4 OFM NOVEMBER 2 0 2 3

Center is part of Mile High Behavioral Health and offers gender counseling on a sliding scale, support groups, surgery letters, and a whole lot more. One of their most popular program’s is Marsha’s Closet, named after trans trailblazer Marsha P. Johnson, which offers gender-affirming clothing and supplies for free to the community. Shopping for gender-affirming clothing for the first time can be terrifying if you’re trying to do it in a regular department store, so having that safe space for your first time trying out the new you is extremely important.

Colorado Health Network: Healthcare ser-

vices (including oral, medical, and behavioral), HIV support services, and prevention and education—The Colorado Health Network does it all. The nonprofit was founded in the 80s and is one of Colorado’s oldest and largest sources of services for people impacted by HIV. Better yet, the network is accessible, with six brick-and-mortar locations in all corners of Colorado: Denver, Colorado Springs, Fort Collins, Grand Junction, Pueblo, and Greeley. The health network also hosts fun signature events like a Scotch Tasting Benefit, Red Ball, and Festival for Life: AIDS Walk and Run Colorado.

Queer Asterisk: Queer Asterisk is one of the younger nonprofits on our list, but their positive impact on the community has been huge. They offer counseling services to help queer and transgender people struggling with dysphoria, trauma, anxiety, depression, addiction, grief, and loss. They also offer group therapy, peer counseling, and they do educational trainings for companies, schools, hospitals, etc. that want outfrontma ga zine.com 15

to learn how to become more inclusive towards the LGBTQ+ community. Their out-of-pocket rate is $150 for a 50-minute session with one of their counselors, but they also accept Medicaid and Medicare, and there’s also a sliding scale and full or partial scholarships to cover that.

Envision:You: According to surveys from The Trevor Project, the U.S. Census Bureau, and even Denver’s Center on

Colfax, a disproportionate amount of LGBTQ+ individuals (including youth) suffer from mental health issues. Envision: You is a Colorado organization dedicated to improving the mental health of LGBTQ+ people and closing the gap in behavioral health outcomes for LGBTQ+ individuals. The organization addresses this problem at the source and focuses on educating mental health professionals and other adults on how to provide supportive and affirming LGBTQ+ care. Envision: You also hosts a community peer support program. Through its public policy work, Envision: You informs elected state officials about disparities in care for LGBTQ+ individuals and has advocated for bills like the School Mental Health Assessment Act.

The Center on Colfax: The Center on Colfax is one of the most important queer nonprofits in Colorado. If you’ve ever attended Denver Pride, you’ve already had an experience with The Center on Colfax, as they’re the ones that organize Denver’s awesome Pridefest every June. In turn, the money from Pride allows them to fund great programs for the queer community. They offer free mental health counseling for LGBTQ+ adults, activities and counseling for LGBTQ+ youth, programs and activities for LGBTQ+ seniors, and they’re also working on the LGBTQ History Project to preserve the queer history of Colorado. That’s just skimming the surface of what The Center on Colfax offers, because there’s a whole lot more on their website.

Matthew Shepard Foundation: Judy and Dennis Shepard have been honoring their late son through this foundation for more than two decades. In 1998, their 21-year-old University of Wyoming student Matthew Shepard was attacked and tied to a fence outside of Laramie, Wyoming, where he was left to die. Although he was found and taken to a hospital, Matthew passed away five days later. Since that immense tragedy, the Matthew Shepard Foundation has been advocating for LGBTQ+ community members nationwide. The foundation has a program titled “Changing Hearts and Minds,” with speaking engagements and tales of LGBTQ+ youth designed to amplify Matthew’s story and promote equality and acceptance. One of the foundation’s most notable accomplishments is the pioneering of the country’s first federal hate crime

by Julie River legislation, the Matthew Shepard and James Byrd. Jr. Hate Crime Prevention Act, which passed in 2009.

YouthSeen/Black Pride: Let’s face it, being queer in a homophobic society is tough enough, but being a queer

person of color in a homophobic and racist society can be even harder. YouthSeen provides support and counseling for QTBIPOC (Queer, Trans, Black, Indigenous, People of Color) youth. They even have a summer camp for QTBIPOC young people called CampSeen. Plus, they’re the organization that started and runs Black Pride, Denver’s Pride festival for the BIPOC community, reminding us all that Pride is about resistance, and not just about dancing and getting day drunk.

Inside Out Youth Services: Contrary to popular belief, there are other cities in Colorado outside the Denver Metro Area. No, I assure you, it’s true. Inside Out Youth Services provides programs for LGBTQ+ people between the ages of 13-24 in Colorado Springs, focusing on their five themes, health, advocacy and community, gender identity and development, entorship and leadership, creative expression, and recreation. They also offer mental health counseling, peer recovery coaches, and the Youth Advocacy Council (YAC) that teaches young people about social justice movements. There’s even a program for parents of transgender children.

COLGBTQCC: Colorado has a bit of a dark history when it comes to LGBTQ+ rights, and there’s no greater example of that than Amendment 2. If you think Florida’s new laws are hateful–and they are–they have nothing on Colorado in the early ‘90s, which was labeled the “hate state” after the passing of the controversial amendment. Amendment 2 was passed by voters in 1992 and outlawed any anti-discrimination laws protecting LGBTQ+ people. In response, a group of LGBTQ+ business owners created the Colorado Business Council, which later became the Colorado LGBTQ Chamber of Commerce. The Chamber is an association of queer and allied business owners that advocate for the business interests of LGBTQ+-run companies, even long after Amendment 2 was struck down by courts and Colorado became a much more queer-friendly state.

The Trevor Project: The Trevor Project is a

national nonprofit whose mission is to end suicide among LGBTQ+ youth. Through the website, queer youth can ac-

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cess a counselor 24/7 via online chats, texts, or phone calls. The project also features TrevorSpace, an international network where young LGBTQ+ people can meet friends and find support. Besides providing counseling services and community resources, The Trevor Project also creates vital surveys that track mental health issues in LGBTQ+ youth and even honors notable queer figures with a Suicide Prevention Advocate of the Year Award.

This year's award went to trans TikToker and advocate, Dylan Mulvaney.

Queer Business Alliance: The Queer Business Alliance is a nonprofit that provides LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs with the resources needed for starting, growing, and maintaining businesses, and connects businesses that pledge to center the queer community in the world of business. The alliance was founded in 2018, but despite its young age is making a large impact. Interested individuals can pay a membership fee to become a Career Queer: QBA Member and access the queer peer mentorship program and workshops and events. Businesses can sign up for the Queer Ally program and become a micro-grant sponsor.

Gill Foundation: Who says you can’t throw

money at a problem? That’s actually the only way anything gets done in this world. Similar to the Chamber, the Gill Foundation was founded by tech entrepreneur, Tim Gill, in response to Amendment 2. The Gill Foundation funds the fight for LGBTQ+ equality and, to date, has invested $420 million in fighting for queer rights, which is both a lot of money and contains the number 420, so that’s awesome for two reasons. Their funding has been instrumental in such legal fights as the battle to take down Trump’s transgender military ban. In 2020, when the legendary queer landmark, The Stonewall Inn, faced the threat of closure due to the pandemic, the Gill Foundation pledged to match contributions up to $250,000 to keep the bar’s doors open. They also give to local charities and causes that help all Coloradans like food drives. Some have even called them the most important organization in the country for the advancement of LGBTQ+ rights. That’s a pretty bold claim to make, but it seems to be true.

Denver Element: Denver Element is a local organization that has provided HIV prevention services and behavior healthcare programs for 15 years. Denver Element has several programs designed to support LGBTQ+ individuals, including counseling resources, an HIV social group, and programs addressing risky substance use. The organization also offers healthcare services through Mile High Behavioral Healthcare, including general wellness care, gender-affirming care, PrEP, STI testing, and birth control. Denver Element’s website even has a Trans Day of Visibility virtual art gallery, with poems, photos, art, and videos by trans creators.

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Location: Dixie Krystal's Home @dixiekrystals Model: Dustin Schlong @dustinschlong Photographer: Ivy Owens, @ivyjune._.jpg

Thanks...

I'm Giving

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Photo by Kendra Colleen Photography

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by Ray Manzari

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What it’s Like Being a Queer, Tattooed Punk Rocker at a Black Tie Gala

by Rose Eden

P

asse’ Blanc. A term that the French Creoles used for Creole people who were so fair-skinned they blended in and lived among the whites. A complex and fascinating history, many “passe blanc” individuals lived as covert operatives of sort, reporting what the aristocratic crowds were up to and talking about back to their internal circles. This was really a strategy that served as a defense mechanism, allowing the infringed populations to remain one step ahead of their oppressors without them ever becoming aware of the source of the insider knowledge.

I think about that factoid and the concept of being “passe blanc” a lot when it’s gala season in San Francisco, and myriad formal and black tie functions start to pop up in the city (and my inbox) at the very end of the summer. As an enthusiastic supporter of the arts and a member of the San Francisco Junior League, I found myself, quite ironically at first, attending these functions as a way to both try something new and spend more time with my friends.

While I’ve grown to enjoy these, erm, society events quite a bit, I will always feel like not only is there an elephant in the room, but that I am the elephant in the room, and have given up trying to decide if that’s a good thing or a bad thing. I figure if I’m the face of DEIB (diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging) at work, and the face of DEIB in my women’s groups, and vol-

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unteer groups, and whatever hobbies I involve myself in, then I might as well be at black tie galas too, right? It’s not like I’ve much of a choice, but if I’m going to be the face of DEIB wherever I go, then I may as well be a fabulous one.

I’m definitely an experienced one.

Speaking of fabulous, one of the first things I was concerned about was what to wear. I’ve been to a lot of award shows and formal weddings over the years, but I had never been to the opening night of this or that until more recently. One thing I noticed consistently at these formal events is how some individuals struggle to eyeball the proper “formality” level of their outfits, showing up wearing dresses that look like they were made for quinceaneras, prom nights, bridesmaids, or even worse, mothers of the brides.

To avoid this, I’ve stuck with a “conservative” formula of dress silhouettes I knew would be flattering to my shape, with both impeccable grooming and well-chosen accessories, and this technique has yet to steer me wrong once so far. Finding a gown or dress for a black tie occasion can sound like nails on a proverbial chalkboard to a lot of folks, but thanks to online shopping and reasonable return policies, it’s possible to find virtually any style of dress, in any color, at any time of the year nowadays.

In fact, for this year’s opening night of the San Francisco Symphony held just last week, I was able to BOGO two dresses to see which one fit best, and had an ultra fun mini fashion show trying them both on at my gay friend’s birthday party in front of all of their guests, since the UPS driver’s arrival coincided with me walking out of my building’s door for the event. It was like the TV show Say Yes to the Dress, but in a fourth floor lower Haight apartment.

The point is to blend in, sort of­­—I mean when you’re covered in tattoos, curvy, and six feet tall in heels, you never really blend in, but you don’t want to stand out in a bad way … like a car when it’s missing a hubcap. I think that folks are always surprised at how elegant and sophisticated I look whenever I arrive, and while always flattering, in the back of my mind, I also wonder what it is that they were actually expecting.

The photographers do tend to notice and gravitate towards me, not because they know I’m a writer, but because I’m usually rocking some sort of ultra-interesting or just flat out va-va-voom look as my fashion modus operandus. A double fashion major, I grew up spending my lunch hours and weekday school nights tucked into bed reading Vogue and W Magazine, living for post-awards show season—not to see who was winning, but for photos to finally be published of what everyone was wearing.

Once you arrive at the gala, it’s a mix of terror and elation because there’s always some sort of red carpet or step-andrepeat type scenario with lots of photographers snapping away and air kissing going on while squealing “Hiiiii! You look amazing!” but also cocktails and beautiful event design, not to mention what everyone else is wearing.

Speaking of photographers, in fact, they are some of the

best allies you can make at these events. Usually also queer, tattooed punk rockers or older gays themselves, they can always spot you as a needle in the haystack within the crowd. If you go up and introduce yourself, exclaiming the feeling of relief for finding one of the only other “normal” people there, it usually starts a great conversation.

I didn’t realize it at first, but introducing myself to the queer photographer at least year’s Opera Ball is probably what landed me on the cover of the SF Standard the next morning as well as in the background of several Sunday Datebook photos, much to the shock and perplexion of many of my Junior League cohorts, who also attended.

Maybe I’m not “conservative” in the traditional sense, but by being more “conservative” than how I normally act, dress, and present, I actually reverse engineer myself into quite a mysteriously glamorous woman. It’s a sort of sorcery that none close to me have yet to be able to truly figure out, and the type that gets me onto the cover of new sites, apparently.

Once inside, it sort of feels as if you’re at the fanciest wedding reception you’ve ever been to, or like you’re on the show Four Weddings, just trying not to miss out on anything while you’re there. There’s servers with trays of champagne and appetizers, food, and bars everywhere.

There’s usually also a very “wedding” style band or DJ, plus tiny hamburgers—Rich people love tiny hamburgers. I have had them in every size, on every bun type, with every sort of cheese, garnish, and protein imaginable. In America, apparently, on Thanksgiving you have turkey, and rich people eat tiny hamburgers. I don’t know, folks, I didn’t make the rules, I just live here.

The bartenders and servers are also the other best people to meet at these events. I mean sure, the networking among the other guests is great for your career and all ,but if you want to get the hook up all night long or actually just get along with someone, find a cool, queer-looking staff member (one who doesn’t look like they’re in a hurry, or stressed) and “buddy up” with them. Re-visit their stations. Tip them well, even if tipping isn’t required, because making alliances with them can make your experience 20 times better. Just trust me on this.

If you want to meet all the cool guests, though, hang out by the dance floor. The edges of the dance floor are always right where the party is just about to go down. You don’t have to personally know someone to make friends with them on the dance floor—It’s all a vibe. If you’re more of an introvert, hang by the dessert table. This is a good tip for those who are more sober-leaning as well; you can meet some very sweet folks hanging out by the sweet treats.

At the end of the day, I’m way more comfortable in the press pit filming a concert than I am sitting in the audience at the opening night of the ballet in a ballgown, but if I’m being honest, I love both equally as the unforgettaoutfrontmagazine.com 23

ble and rich cultural experiences they truly are, ones that I’m extremely lucky to be included in, involved in, and invited to, not to mention incredibly fortunate to be able to attend.

In a way, when I think back to that 15-year-old kid with pink streaks in her hair sitting in front of The Coffee Garden after school with her Vogue Magazine, I’d never think I’d ever be *Ariel voice* “Part of that worrlllddd….” but I digress because I am a true lover, and therefore supporter of the arts, so if anyone actually belongs there, it’s definitely someone like me.

And unlike the Creole, I perhaps don’t “passe blanc” in a literal, visual way, but the way that I have been welcomed and accepted into the gala circuit has been much more of a positive experience than initially expected. And it is a circuit, so to say, because after a while, you realize that it’s mostly all the same folks who attend these things over and over again.

But, that said, I’m happy to be part of a new guard of sorts in “society” (ugh) or … whatever you want to call it. Maybe I don’t need to be a part of that world, but I certainly enjoy witnessing it, and I definitely love writing about it. And by now I know that once I arrive, there will always be tiny hamburgers, and sushi rolls, and air kisses, cool bartenders and sweet photographers, plus that magical never-ending glass of champagne … and that's more than enough for this punk rock girl.

It’s more than I could have ever dreamed of, in fact.

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Horoscopes

by Brynne Popp

Hello my little fall pumpkins! The cool wind brings change and rest this month as our bodies are in tune with the shorter days and colder weather. This month, it is important to find a balance between your energy and rest, much like the natural environment around you. Be on the lookout for the new moon in Scorpio on November 13 and the full moon in Gemini on the 27.

Aries Patience and intuition will serve you well this month, Aries. Be cautious of all the things you are adding to your plate, and make sure to find time for rest and relaxation as your body is feeling the effects of the changing seasons. Pay close attention to who you are surrounding yourself with and go with your gut when it comes to new opportunities!

Herb for Ritual Cleansing: Echinacea

Taurus Motivation and creativity are your strong suits this November, Taurus! New projects, home improvements and minor lifestyle changes are great opportunities for you to engage in this month, but don’t get too carried away. Your health and energy are also important factors this month so make sure to pay attention to what your body needs.

Herb for Ritual Cleansing: Eucalyptus

Gemini Get ready for a month of social interactions and new friendships, Gemini! Your charisma and warmth are welcoming as you meet new folks, and these new relationships could lead to other endeavors both personal and career-related. This is also a great time to try new things as your body is feeling energetic with the change in weather.

Herb for Ritual Cleansing: Juniper

Cancer Welcome to a month full of energy and determination, Cancer! Your passion and resolve this month will allow you to be successful in different ways, so it is the perfect time to try something new or come back to the things you’ve been putting off. You will be able to pursue your goals energetically, but make sure not to burn yourself out even if you don’t feel tired!

Herb for Ritual Cleansing: Vanilla

Leo Relaxation and solitude are what await you this month, Leo. You are feeling the effects of the change in season both mentally and physically, so listening to your mind and body are very important this month. Don’t make any drastic changes and make sure to get plenty of rest. Do something nice for yourself this month!

Herb for Ritual Cleansing: Caraway

Virgo Honesty and communication are key this month, Virgo! You shine when it comes to your family and friends who might confide in you or ask for your advice and opinions. Your honest opinions will serve you well at work, and people will appreciate your ability to connect with others.

Herb for Ritual Cleansing: Myrrh

Libra You are feeling very calm and at ease this month, Libra! Your ability to stay level-headed will prove to be significant at work or in your personal relationships. In November, you have quite a bit of influence on those in your bubble, and you will be able to take on any challenge rationally, with ease, and without conflict.

Herb for Ritual Cleansing: Rosemary

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Scorpio Happy Birthday sweet Scorpio! This month you will crave knowledge and want to try or learn new things.

Your communication and concentration will be on point, as well as your memory, so you will be very popular in your circle and among new friends! Take this time to engage the people around you in some of your extracurriculars or try out something together.

Herb for Ritual Cleansing: Rosebud

Sagittarius Happy Birthday November Sagittariuses! We love your passion and integrity. This month is full of mindfulness and rest as you might be feeling the transition to cooler weather, but surrounding yourself with loved ones is key. You might be gravitating towards others to be listened to and understood, so embrace it!

Herb for Ritual Cleansing: Oregano

November Astrological Events November 13 New Moon in Scorpio November 27 Full Moon in Gemini Planets in retrograde: Jupiter, Uranus, Neptune, and Chiron

Capricorn Welcome to a month of joy and happiness, Capricorn!

You are feeling quite creative and energetic so it’s a great time to experiment and try new hobbies.

Although this time brings a lot of uneasiness for the other signs, this is your time to shine! November also brings you motivation and balance for your mind, body and in your life.

Herb for Ritual Cleansing: Myrtle Leaf

Aquarius Your concentration and ability to manifest are prominent for you this month, Aquarius! This is a great time for you to achieve goals you set for yourself and surround yourself with friends. You tend to overthink things, so try to find that balance of focus and not stress yourself out by thinking too much. You also have the ability to learn new skills and speak things into existence!

Herb for Ritual Cleansing: Bay Leaf

Pisces You are supported and stand out this month, Pisces!

Your warmth and compassion is infectious, and your friends and family will gravitate towards that this November. Nothing will stand in your way, and you will be in an ideal mood for social interactions and to connect with someone you haven't seen in a while.

Herb for Ritual Cleansing: Sassafras

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OFM BAR TAB | Colorado Nightlife BAD HABITS DENVER 3014 E Colfax Ave. Denver (303) 335-9690 badhabitsdenver.com

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EL POTRERO 4501 E. Virginia Ave. Glendale (303) 388-8889 Facebook @elpotreroclub 3 0 OFM NOVEMBER 2 0 2 3

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

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

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

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

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