December 2011

issu

he

holiGAY

December 2011

Wild Lights/ Holiday Nights The STL Zoo Awaits

New Year’s Eve Where to Party

1 Out of 10

Murphy Recaps 2011

This issue is dedicated to

THE LGBT CENTER OF ST. LOUIS

Complimentary Copy

intimate feel. all-star appeal. clint black

Friday, december 9 8:00 pm $60

little big town Friday, February 3 7:00 pm & 9:00 pm $25

air supply

Friday, February 17 7:00 pm & 9:00 pm $40 and $25

tickets can be purchased at ticketmaster.com, charged by phone at 800.745.3000 and at etc inside lumière Place.

J u s t o f f i n t e r s tat e 7 0 • P l e n t y o f Pa r k i n g • 9 9 9 n o rt h s e c o n d s t r e e t • l u m i e r e p l a c e . c o m • 8 7 7 . 4 5 0 . 7 7 1 1 December, 2011 concert is subject to change or cancellation without notice. Valid id required. Must be 21 or older. not valid for persons who are on the Missouri disassociated Persons list or persons who have otherwise been excluded from lumière Place and Pinnacle entertainment’s affiliated casinos. gambling Problem? call 1.888.Betsoff. ©2011 Pinnacle entertainment, inc. all rights reserved.

DearFriends, The holidays are at hand! So grab the tinsel and fa-la-LAH along with our annual “HoliGAY” issue as we celebrate the season and pause to reflect on the LGBT year that was.

2011 has proven a banner year.

Whether it was Civil Unions in Illinois, the end of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” or a host of local milestones—check out my “1 out of 10” column to relive some of the headlines that have impacted the queer community these past 12 months.

Our writing team has been busy wrapping up some engaging holiday features for you to explore. From campy and kitschy gift ideas, a look at the “queer family” or our must read “it” guide for your New Year’s Eve revelry and fun, there’s a little something for everyone.

Each of us at Vital VOICE Omni-media is uber-excited about the coming year and we encourage you to keep your eyes peeled for our brand new “Politics”, “Wedding” and “Gay in the Life” issues, to name a few. We have the next 12 months of your premier LGBT publication mapped out for you, our faithful readers, and we promise something new at every turn.

We’re also pleased to announce The 2012 Miss Spirit of St. Louis Pageant coming to Attitude’s Nightclub at 7p.m. on Jan. 15th. Yes – Vital VOICE is now the proud promoter of the hottest preliminary to the storied Miss Gay Missouri America pageant starring MGM 2011 Madison Elise, MGM 1991 Dieta Pepsi, MGM 1997 Krista Versace, MGM 2007 Jade Sinclair and a host of quality contestants. You won’t want to miss it!

So whether it be Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa—or however you celebrate the season—I wish you much love, community and merriment—and a 2012 filled with promise and possibility. We’ll see you in January!

In Pride,

Colin Murphy, Executive Editor

theVitalVOICE.com | 3

TS N E S PRE

RAY P S R I A H M O R F ON NGS M O R S O G FM RIN O U T K A O E O F EB H T D AN

EDISON THEATRE

WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY

DECEMBER 9-10. 8PM

Tickets: $20 GA. $25 VIP GMCstl.org

4 |

December, 2011

You

belong here

At Elmhurst, you’ll find an exceptionally welcoming campus community. We embrace individual expression. We see our differences as sources of strength. And we clearly, openly, emphatically want you here.

Scholarships for LGBT students Our Enrichment Scholarship specifically benefits academically qualified students from minority groups—including LGBT students. The scholarship covers one-third of tuition. More than that, it underscores our commitment to affirming the identities and advancing the dreams of each individual student.

“People at Elmhurst are accepting and supportive, from the faculty and staff to my friends and fraternity brothers. My experience here has helped me embrace my sexuality and become the person I am today.”

Joey Carrillo

A wealth of programs and resources We support our LGBT students through a variety of campus organizations and events. The student group EQUAL (Elmhurst Queers and Allies) promotes awareness through events and advocacy. SAFE (Staff, Administrators and Faculty for Equality) offers a support network for the LGBT community. An annual guestship and other special events focus on issues of concern to the LGBT community.

Our faculty is adding courses in LGBT studies.

A step ahead of the rest “In a small but meaningful step, Elmhurst College is now officially telling applicants that gay students are welcome on campus. The private liberal arts college is the first college in the U.S. to ask potential students about their sexual orientation or gender identity on its application....The question is meant to increase diversity at the school, which is affiliated with the United Church of Christ, and to direct incoming students toward services that might ease their transition into college life. It’s also a strong signal that the school will embrace LGBT students and will do its best to support them.”

—Chicago Sun-Times, August 26, 2011

“Elmhurst College does a great job of nurturing and supporting LGBT students.

Coming out was hard for me, but I’ve been blessed to have an accepting community to come out to.”

Felicia Diaz

Hear our students’ stories: www.elmhurst.edu/lgbt Contact us: (630) 617-3400 • admit@elmhurst.edu • www.elmhurst.edu/admission • 190 Prospect Avenue, Elmhurst, Illinois

facebook.com/ElmCol

twitter.com/ElmhurstCollege theVitalVOICE.com | 5

this

N ISSUE

Volume 12, Issue 12

On the COVER: Photography by Tim Brenner.

Wardrobe provided by Retro 101 Cherry Bomb Vintage.

The Vital VOICE Family poses for a“traditional” family holiday portrait at The Cheshire Inn. L to R: Dieta Pepsi, Darin Slyman (seated), Janae Johnson, Jimmy Lesch, Josh Barton (seated) and Colin Murphy.

The Vital VOICE Team

Darin Slyman Publisher/Editor-in-Chief dsly@thevitalvoice.com

22.

38.

Colin Murphy Executive Editor/Senior Writer colin_murphy@sbcglobal.net Joshua Barton Associate Editor josh.barton49@gmail.com

33.

Jeff Kapfer Art Director JeffKapfer@gmail.com Leon Braxton/Dieta Pepsi Executive Assistant /On Air Hostess Dieta@thevitalvoice.com Jimmy Lesch Director of PR/Communications Jimmy@thevitalvoice.com Janae Johnson Business Assistant vv@thevitalvoice.com

Contributors

Writing: A.J. Bockelman and Jonathan Peck Photography: Alex Galindo, Tim Brenner, Colin Murphy Josh Monken, Cameron Harrol, and Darin Slyman

Advisory Board

William A. Donius, Thom Halter, Colin Murphy, Jay Perez, Pam Schneider, Kellie Trivers, Sharon Tucci.

Contact

Vital VOICE Magazine.

4579 Laclede Ave #268. Saint Louis, MO 63108 VitalVOICEmag@gmail.com 314.256.1196

Advertising

vv@thevitalvoice.com

Online

thevitalvoice.com facebook.com/TheVitalVOICE twitter.com/VitalVOICEmag youtube.com/TheVitalVISION 6 |

December, 2011

35.

31.

8. Online @theVitalVOICE.com 13. 2011 A Queer Review.

17. Political Voice. 20. The V List. 22. Wild Lights. 28. Holiday Giving Appeals.

31. The Q Quide. 33. Fitness Foundations. 35. NYE Party Guide. 36. Playdates.

38. Dishin’ With Dieta. 40. Scene & Styling. 42. Non-profit of the Month.

Vital VOICE is printed on recycled newspaper and uses soy ink for a 100% recyclable product.

just john presents

THE

ENDt OF THE WORLD A NEW YEARS EVE EVENT

12-31-11 Hosted by

Dei t a Pepsi ............

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Teaching Tolerance

Claire Swinford poses a challenging question to the LGBT community: What is your “tolerance” level for the sex worker community? Read her thought provoking op/ed on the double standards and stigmas attached to the oldest profession in the world.

Horrible Little Words

When does a word become a weapon?

Our guest commentator at The Vital VOICE Online tries to find out in this essay on the power of language to discriminate and oppress one another in the LGBTQ community.

Talking Suicide and LGBT Youth

Vital VOICE political contributor A.J. Bockelman tackles the subject of anti-LGBT bullying and LGBT youth suicide.

Find out what he believes we can do as a community to keep our youth alive.

Dieta Sings XXXmas Classics

She’s back and she’s singing your favorite XXXmas classics! From Silver Balls to What the #$&* is a Dradle?! Dieta’s holiday album infomercial video will keep you and your Yule log warm all season long!

Stay Connected with us 8 |

December, 2011

theVitalVOICE.com | 9

10 | December, 2011

2012

Pride St. Louis and Plaza Motors Presents

Showroom Showcase” Shawn & Shawn Absolute Class DJ’s

Robin Schubert Mixologist

Absolutli Goosed

Range Rover Evoque

Former American Idol Finalist”

Dieta Pepsi & Trish Busch plus Celebrity Impersonators

Nikko Smith Pride St. Louis and Plaza Audi/Land Rover invite you to enjoy an evening where cars and celebrities take center showroom! Where a red carpet leads you to drinks, hors d’oeuvres, silent auction and entertainment.

JANUARY 14th

St. Louis’ Own

THE WOO DADDIES

Audi A4

$20.00 at the door (Includes two free drinks of choice)

All proceeds collected will go towards fund raising for Pride St. Louis 2012 For more information you can contact Tracy Cox at tcox1@plazamotors.com

Plaza Motor Company 11830 Olive Blvd, Creve Coeur, MO theVitalVOICE.com | 11

Happy Hour Specials!

Happy Hour Runs — Tuesday through Friday • 2pm – 6pm

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If the Fox is closed we extend Happy Hour until 7pm!

$5 Glasses of Wine

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12 | December, 2011

1 O ut of 10 Ain’t Bad! A LOOK INTO LGBT LIFE - PAST & PRESENT

2011

–TWENTY ELEVEN– A Queer Review

Written by Colin Murphy – Senior Writer/Editor Photography by Colin Murphy

D

espite a decidedly more conservative Congress and hostile state houses across the country, 2011 turned out to be a pretty good year for the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community.

We were witnesses to history as lesbian and gay service members were finally freed from the shackles of Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell and could serve their nation openly and with continuing pride.

New York became the sixth state, plus the District of Columbia, where same-sex couples could legally marry while Civil Unions commenced across the river in Illinois. And Hawaii, Nevada and Connecticut each passed historic nondiscrimination laws to include gender identity and expression protections.

Here at home, the year began with V2 and your venerable Vital VOICE celebrating its first full year of rebranding as the region’s premier LGBT magazine—and yet another anniversary milestone in the annals of St. Louis queer media.

February heralded Advocate magazine’s unexpected honor of bestowing the title of top 10 Gayest City to our fair Lou. “There’s never been a census of the gay and lesbian population, so it’s up to us,” began the write up which named St. Louis the 10th Gayest City in its second annual look at our country’s “queerest burgs.”

theVitalVOICE.com | 13

The article, which mentioned local artist and PHD Gallery owner, Philip Hitchcock’s Mr. Midwest Leather win and TransHaven’s first annual Trans Family Picnic, used a unique formula to come up with the list which had the Gateway City besting gay Mecca, San Francisco.

St. Louis LGBT leaders gathered the following month to build on the headline—many found the first-of-itskind “Conclave” empowering and ripe with ideas.

And on March 26, we paused with the St. Louis LGBT History Project to commemorate the 100th birthday of St. Louis’ favorite gay son, Tennessee Williams.

On the political front—University City passed a Domestic Partnership registry in May, followed

by Olivette passing both a registry and a fully inclusive nondiscrimination ordinance. Further, as we go to press, The Clayton City Council introduced and unanimously passed legislation that would include nondiscrimination protections for the LGBT community in employment, housing, and public accommodations.

Once again, our community marched to City Hall in honor of the martyred Harvey Milk and celebrated with pride and purpose at this summer’s Metro East Pride, St. Louis PrideFest and St. Louis Black Pride celebrations.

On July 17, The LGBT Center of St. Louis officially moved to 4337 Manchester in The Grove. The change of address was met with a dramatic uptick in attendance, renewed interest and a growing sense of ownership within the community.

Our community turned out en masse to bid farewell to longtime LGBT hot spot, The Complex Nightclub and the popular Show Tunes Tuesdays found new life at Erney’s 32 following the fire at longtime LGBT haunt, The Loading Zone.

We cheered The St. Louis Cardinals on to a September victory at the second annual “Out at the Ballpark” and joined the rest of Cardinal Nation in the ride of a lifetime as The Redbirds launched an improbably playoff run and World Series victory.

The Gateway Men’s Chorus celebrated 25 years of choral perfection, while the Metropolitan Community Church of Greater Saint Louis’ 53 member choir competed at nationals after nabbing the Best Large Choir prize at How Sweet the Sound: A Verizon Experience Regional Choir Competition.

Indeed, there were many headlines to celebrate in 2011 and our community has a lot to be proud of.

But as I’ve often said—we’re a work in progress, and much remains to be done.

Next year is a crucial election year. Accordingly, I encourage you to reflect and rededicate yourself to making a difference in 2012. We are a tribe of many VOICES—make yours heard next year. v 14 | December, 2011

With or without insurance, we’re here with quality, affordable sexual health care for women and men.

Same day and next day appointments available.

theVitalVOICE.com | 15

Lundkvist & Associates SERVING THE COMMUNITY SINCE 1999 BOLDLY GO EXPLORE Saint Louis Science Center October 28, 2011 – May 28, 2012

Martin Lundkvist Attorney At Law

314.241.6770 MartinLundkvistLaw.com Lundkvist@att.net Add Star Trek First Fridays and Lecture Series to your Captain’s Log. Come in costume for a $2 discount.

(May not be combined with any other discount.) ® & © 2011 CBS Studios Inc. All rights reserved. STAR TREK and related marks are trademarks of CBS Studios Inc.

boldlygoexplore.org

16 | December, 2011

• Bankruptcy • Wills • Trusts • DWI/DUI • Traffic • Living Wills • Personal Injury

Political VOICE

Celebrating with Family Written by A.J. Bockelman Photography by Colin Murphy

A

lthough it’s been said many times, many ways, the holiday season is all about family: the family we grew up in, the families we see on holiday specials on TV, and most of all, the family we have chosen to be part of as adults. For those of us in the LGBT community, our families of choice hold a special resonance, which makes this the perfect time of year to consider the LGBT family.

First the statistics: The 2010 census collected a wealth of data demonstrating that the number of self-reported samesex households, in particular those with children, is growing at a rapid pace. For example, St. Louis City alone is ranked 12th out of over 1,100 counties nationwide who have 50 or more same-sex households on a per capita basis. According to the Williams Institute’s tabulation, the city has approximately 1,977 same-sex couples, and 1,642 same-sex couples report living in St. Louis County. Of those couples, 12% in the city and 18% in the county report raising children (either their own biological or adopted children). Interestingly, the percentage of same-sex

couples raising children varies widely in the surrounding counties – Franklin reports 32% and Jefferson County 27% while only 6% of same-sex households in Saint Charles County report raising kids.

So why this phenomenon—why now? Certainly we are seeing an intentional effort to identify and count those families. It’s not so much a new phenomenon— couples have long chosen to raise a child from a prior marriage—but a reflection of a growing public identity of the LGBT family. In other words, it’s the latest way in which we’re out, loud and proud!

When we talk about how we bring children into our families, adoption is, of course, a huge factor. It was nearly 20 years ago that pioneers in adoption for same-sex couples were first successful here in St. Louis.

Despite that long history, however, adoption efforts in the city remain somewhat underground in nature. There are only a handful of judges and attorneys willing to do adoptions for same-sex couples here in The Gateway City.

Meanwhile, across the state, in Jackson County, where Kansas theVitalVOICE.com | 17

City resides, all five judges in the Family Court system and nearly 30 different attorneys cover same-sex adoptions.

Kansas City has a strong community infrastructure of support and social organizations for same-sex couples with kids. The St. Louis area is just beginning to build that identity with the goal of making families much more visible.

Understandably there is concern regarding risk of public exposure of our families and the judicial adoption structure, but ultimately this is the same fear that we as a community experienced for decades by remaining in the closet. Research and our lived experience have shown that progress for our community is directly proportional to the percentage of the American population who know someone who is lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender.

In the same vein, knowing the same-sex couple down the block who are raising a kid breaks down stereotypes and fosters better understanding.

18 | December, 2011

Within St. Louis, over the years we have seen various support groups come and go—often mirroring different generations of adoptive parents. With the latest wave of new parents, in the last year we saw the launch of Families Like Ours, a new organization representing networking, social and interactive opportunities for LGBT families. You can find them on Facebook or drop them a line at FamiliesLikeOursSTL@gmail.com.

When I was a kid in Jasper, Indiana, I would go to Mass with my family—my parents, my sister, and my two brothers— on Christmas Day. While I spent a lot of time during the service thinking about getting back home to open presents, I couldn’t help but notice the large Nativity scene at the front of the church. St. Joseph was an old stone church, but at Christmastime it was bright and warm, and up by the altar, in a makeshift stable, were the almost life-size figures of Mary, Joseph, the shepherds, the Wise Men, and

of course, in the manger, the Baby Jesus. I listened to the story of how Mary was told she was with child, the Son of God—how Joseph, who was NOT the father of Jesus, nevertheless agreed to be the baby’s adoptive father and loved the baby as any father would—how the shepherds came to protect the baby—how the Magi came to bring him gifts. There they were—mother, child, adoptive father, protectors, and that image remains with me to this day. This was by no means a “traditional” family, but it was a family, because these were people brought together by love.

For me one of the gifts of this season is to see so many more LGBT families going out to visit neighbors and friends. By showing the rest of the world that families that grow out of love are all pretty much alike, they give us all reason to celebrate. v

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The V List The V List The V List The V List The

DTown_Postcard4x6

10/7/08

9:54 PM

Page 1

Located in the Heart of Historic Dogtown St. Louis

SALON DACOTA

BEAUTY BAR

15003 Manchester Rd Ballwin, MO 63011 636.386.3600 http://salondacota.com Tue–Thu: 9:00 am–9:00 pm Fri: 9:00 am–5:00 pm Sat: 9:00 am–4:00 pm We are a full service hair salon that offers a wide variety of services from cuts, color, extensions, brazilian straighteners & make up. Complete with lots of parking, Salon Dacota is home to St Louis’s TOP stylists and offers all the amenities you are looking for in a salon.

7001 Landsdowne Ave St Louis, MO 63109 618.979.2477 1206 Tamm Ave. | St. Louis, MO 63139 314.644.3409 | dogtownartgallery.com

Dogtown Gallery & Frame Shop 1206 Tamm Ave St. Louis, MO 63139 www.dogtownartgallery.com Tues–Fri: 10am–6:00pm Sat: 10am–4:00pm 314.644.3409 Located in the heart of the Dogtown neighborhood, Dogtown Gallery & Frame Shop is an independently owned, custom picture framing store. We offer a complete line of custom framing services specializing in one-on-one customer service & design. Our store also carries a unique selection of gifts, silver jewelry and artwork from local STL artists & photographers. Come by and visit us today!

20 | December, 2011

Having an experienced and trusted stylist in your corner is important. Whether finding a new look or keeping your existing look fresh, we have the expertise and passion for beauty to make it happen. From haircuts and extensions to makeup and eyelash extension, we provide the services necessary to keep you looking your best!

Do you have a special event approaching that you want to look amazing for? Give us a call and to provide you with customized makeup, styling, and manicures!

Same day booking available.

California Keratin Hair Therapy also available.

Enjoy complementary beer, wine and cocktails during your visit!

Call to schedule you appointment today before spaces fill up!

V List T

{The V List: Great Gifts}

Welcome to The V List! Each month Vital VOICE spotlights some of the top-notch StL businesses that support the LGBT community.

For a complete roster of valued V List members, log onto thevitalvoice.com/the-v-list.

Interested in being featured on The V List in print and online? Drop us a line @ vv@thevitalvoice.com

Ca n

no

Me nti a you nd ge on th t $ is a r n ec 5.0 d om ext 0o Exp bined Cus ff t ire s 1 with om 2/3 an T! y 1/1 2 oth

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Wednesday–Friday 12–6 Saturday: 10–6, Sunday: 11–4

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St. Louis, MO 63130 314-727-0704 Tuesday–Friday: 11–6 Saturday: 10–6, Sunday 12–4

Custom t-shirts in quantities of one or more – while you wait! Prices include the shirt, design and print in unlimited colors. We are one of the only shops in town with the technology to print on dark or black shirts. Select from stock designs, bring your own or shop online. We carry many other shirt styles and gift items

www.thesilver-lady.com Come to either of The Silver Lady locations, or register on-line at www.thesilver-lady.com between December 1st and December 17th for your chance to win a $100 Somers Randolf gift certificate. These inspired tiny sculptures, created in precious metals and put on colorful leathers and silk, create a unique collection of wearable art. Preview this collection at either store or on line. Available in St. Louis exclusively at The Silver Lady.

dp ESTHETICS 7700 Clayton Road. Suite 305 St. Louis, MO 63117 314.852.8588 www.doraskinandbody.com Our studio is a private, quiet sanctuary.

Our service is beyond the ordinary, Offering a menu of therapies and treatments to remind you just how wonderful a day can be.

Leave the day behind and take some time for yourself.

Gift Certificates Available

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22 | December, 2011

s t h g i N y Holida Written by Colin Murphy – Senior Writer/Editor Photography by Alex Galindo & Josh Monken

F

or over a century, St. Louisans of every stripe have flocked to The St. Louis Zoo to commune with the noble beasts and enchanting creatures on display. Indeed, the beloved attraction remains the pride of The Gateway City where fun and discovery are a year-round activity.

The holidays are no exception and beginning the day after Thanksgiving, revelers can explore the zoo in a whole new light!

Yes, The Saint Louis Zoo awaits—a dazzling winter wildland. So grab your better half, bundle up the kids, or summon a host of friends to enjoy the thousands of colorful lights and seasonal sounds at U.S. Bank Wild Lights. The exhibit is open Fridays through Sundays, November 25 to December 11 and nightly December 16 to 23 and 26 to 30, 2011, from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.

theVitalVOICE.com | 23

24 | December, 2011

“It’s truly magical to walk through Zoo with all the lights surrounding you,” says Ginnie Westmoreland, Director of Marketing at Saint Louis Zoo. “U.S. Bank Wild Lights is the perfect holiday environment for families with out-of-town guests, children and their parents, as well as a great place to take a date,” she says. “We have guests who return year after year, making it a family tradition.”

Rediscover familiar paths awash in whimsy and light as they bend to display a snowflake flurry walk, poppin’ prairie dogs, an illuminated penguin colony, a fantasy butterfly garden and charming gingerbread village. There’s also a festive locomotive, flamboyant flamingos, numerous trees ablaze in lights and much, much more.

Theatrical interpreters will be on hand to share captivating animal tales beside a crackling fire or you can go nose-to-beak with the campy fowl at Penguin & Puffin Coast. What’s more, The Monsanto Insectarium provides a tropical oasis where you’ll see colorful insects from around the world.

Admission to Wild Lights is $5 per person; $4 for Zoo Friends members (no passes). Children under two are free. Reservations are not required. Advance tickets may be purchased online at www. stlzoo.org/wildlights. Groups of 15 or more may receive a group rate by calling 314.781.0900, ext. 4709 in advance.

Wild Lights is sponsored by U.S. Bank, Build-A-Bear Workshop® at the Zoo, North Star Frozen Treats and Sprint. Media support is provided by Fresh 102.5. theVitalVOICE.com | 25

26 | December, 2011

theVitalVOICE.com | 27

HOLIDAY GIVING APPEALS Pride St. Louis Named #1 Best Festival in St Louis 2011, Pride St Louis strives to bring continuity and public awareness to the community through events and promotions aimed at furthering the LGBT community’s commitment to education and change.

Pride St Louis, Inc PO Box 440383 St Louis, MO 63144

Charis CHARIS is a diverse group of women united in our mission to perform music that celebrates and encourages women and the LGBTQ community. In our 19th season, CHARIS consistently challenges our community to look at timely issues while entertaining the heck out of our audience!

The St. Louis Women’s Chorus P.O. Box 21624 St. Louis, MO 63139 www.charischorus.org 314.664.9340

MCC Metropolitan Community Church of Greater Saint Louis (MCCGSL) is a progressive and radically inclusive Christ-centered community. Welcoming all people, MCCGSL is also known as a “human rights church” – serving, advocating, and providing safe spiritual space for the LGBTQA community since 1973. MCCGSL is a place to call home.

MCCGSL Dan Dowd, Director of Administration 1919 S. Broadway St. Louis, MO 63104 dan@mccgsl.org 314.361.3221

28 | December, 2011

The LGBT Center Due to the tremendous support from the St. Louis LGBT Community, The LGBT Center of St. Louis has made great strides in being a viable resource, meeting and event location, safe space and hang out spot. If you would like to help see the LGBT Center of St. Louis continue on this great path of support for our St. Louis LGBT community, please consider donating to our wonderful organization. We appreciate your support.

The LGBT Center of St. Louis 4337 Manchester Ave. St. Louis, MO 63116 314.472.5428 (LGBT) info@lgbtcenterstl.org www.lgbtcenterstl.org

Growing American Youth Think about when you were younger and the support you needed to be your most amazing self. For more than 30 years, Growing American Youth has been that support for youth who may identify as gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and questioning - in and around the St. Louis area.

408 N. Euclid, Suite 210 St. Louis, MO 63108 314.669.5428 growingamericanyouth.org

SAGE SAGE Metro St. Louis Services and Advocacy for LGBT Elders Support the work of SAGE as we “Age with PRIDE!” Your end of the year donation supports our services including the SAGE Friends friendly visitor program, SAGE Support Groups, Information & Referral, Social Activities

and our advocacy work that promotes equality for ALL LGBT older adults!

Thank you for remembering SAGE with a year end contribution!

SAGE Metro St. Louis 2710 South Grand Blvd Suite 109 St. Louis, MO 63118 314.772.5887 www.SageMetroSTL.org

PROMO In a challenging year, within a challenging state, PROMO has managed not just to survive, but in fact to grow, over the last year, winning key victories on behalf of the LGBT community. We could not have had this growth or these victories without your financial support. Please help us keep our momentum.

The size of your gift is not important; what is important is that you are a part of the effort. Make your support for PROMO, your part in the struggle for equality, part of your story.

Jeffrey Brodzinski 314.862.4900 jeffrey@promoonline.org

Team St. Louis In this season of giving, Team Saint Louis (TSL) gives thanks to you, our family, for your enduring support and encourage you to ‘Pay It Forward’ by giving to the charity of your choice. TSL wishes you a warm and safe Holiday Season.

For information on all that is LGBT sports: www.teamsaintlouis.org or Like us on Facebook!

Historic Loft/Apartments • 1,2 & 3 BR Units Starting at $595 • Completely Redone • Bright and Open Floor Plans • High Ceilings

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Free HIV & Syphilis Testing Mon & Wednesday Tue, Thur & Fridays walk-ins welcome by appointment 9:30am - 4:00pm

1027 S. Vandeventer Ave Suite 700 Saint Louis, MO 63110

30 | December, 2011

314.645.6451 www.stlefa.org

ide

Guide To a Campy, Kitschy Christmas If you think about it long enough, Christmas is a pretty campy, kitschy and all around GAY holiday: Little twink elves running around making toys for a chubby dude in a red suit who looks like he just came from Hibernation.

Sounds pretty queer to me! But in case you can’t make it to the North Pole for an all reindeer production of A Christmas Carol then check out these campy, kitschy gift ideas for your homo-holidays!

The Ornaments. A twink-merman-Santa, a queer reindeer and a giraffe up in drag are just a few of the amazing and campy holiday ornaments you can find at Cheap TRX. These seasonal gems can add some subtle campiness to any holiday décor or buy in bulk and put that Christmas tree up in drag for the season.

Campy Christmas Ornaments: $18–$28 Cheap TRX, 3211 South Grand, StL 63118.

The Present. Flip Wilson was the king—sometimes even the queen of camp with his sketch comedy show “The Flip Wilson Show.” So what better way to honor him and that big old butch queen on your Xmas list than with this genuine, vintage Flip Wilson/ Geraldine doll. Those girls will be gagging when they see this perched on the fireplace mantle.

Vintage Flip Wilson/Geraldine Doll: $30 Retro 101 Cherry Bomb Vintage, 2303 Cherokee St, StL 63118.

The Stocking Stuffers. Stocking stuffers always seem to be the lackluster gifts of the holiday, but not with an ironic tin contraband containers for condoms or these piggy banks for a new tattoo or some high grade pot. These gifts are sure to keep on giving.

Low Brow Tin Contraband Containers: $6. Ironic Piggy Banks: $8 Phoenix Rising, 6331 Delmar Blvd., StL 63130.

The Costume. Give some serious Rudloph realness at this year’s company holiday party with this Plush Reindeer Mascot costume.

The costume comes with the removable Rudolph head with seethrough mesh eyes, furry body suite, mittens and foot covers.

Reindeer Plush Costume: $225 Johnnie Brock’s Dungeon Warehouse Superstore, 1900 South Jefferson, StL 63104. theVitalVOICE.com | 31

32 | December, 2011

Fitness Founda ons

Build a Strong, Sexy Core on Your Living Room Floor

Written by Jonathan Peck NASM, Lead Trainer at Lionheart Personal Training Photography by Darin Slyman You can build that beach body wherever you are by strengthening your core right. Start by breaking your midsection down by core levels.

High-Central Core: Start with crunches and work in reps of 20 for 3 sets. As you grow stronger, increase reps to 30 and overall sets to 5. Next, move to military crunches to round out the upper abdominals (To complete a full military crunch, lay flat, bend both knees and place your feet flat on the ground. Cross your arms in front of you, not across the chest. Then crunch up until the forearms touch your knees). Do these in sets of 20.

Low Core: Begin with straight-leg raises to work the Adonis belt.

Start by lying flat on the floor legs fully extended. Next place your hands under your butt or lower back. Inhale deeply as the feet slowly rise. Be sure not to let the hips leave the ground and keep the legs straight. Once you complete your 20 reps just relax and recover equal to the time it took to complete. Now stay in that position for the scissor kick. Straighten both legs and raise one leg and then the other without ever letting your heals touch the floor.

Count this in pairs, with every pair equaling a full rep for 20 reps.

360 and Full Core: For the next exercise you will need an ab roller. You can find one at any sporting goods store and they’re incredibly effective at isolating hard to target areas. Start with the wheel in both hands on your hands and knees. Roll the wheel away from you as far as you can extend so that your shoulder lines up with your hip and knee joint. Roll straight, slight left, and slight right. These 3 moves make up 1 rep (You still have 10 more to go!). Next it’s back on your butt for our final exercise, the Russian Twist. Take a medicine ball and sit it on your right side resting on the floor against your hip. Then slightly bend the knees and raise both feet off the ground. After you get your balance begin to rotate the ball across your body down to the opposite hip. Every pair equals one rep with 20 total reps for each set.

For more info please contact Jonathan Peck at Lionheart Personal Training at 314-452-2392 or find us at lionheartfitness.com. v

theVitalVOICE.com | 33

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! e d i u G Party Eve New Year’s E IC O V l a Vit

Written by Joshua Barton – Associate Editor

New Year’s Eve is a time to reflect on the past year, embrace a new one and for drinking gallons of champagne while looking for someone to make out with when the clock strikes midnight.

To find out where we’ll be partying this year, check out our New Year’s Eve party guide and start making those reservations, honey!

Erney’s 32 Degrees:

Party Like A Playboy.

Embrace your inner Playboy this NYE at Erney’s 32! Party Playboy-Mansion style with our PlayBOY Bunnies and dance your way into the New Year with DJ No Show. $1 VodBox Shots and, of course, a midnight champagne toast & more!

4200 Manchester, St. Louis, 63110.

314.652.7195

Mojo’s Tapas:

New Years Eve Bash with Rob Levy.

Join KDHX host and DJ Rob Levy at Mojo’s Tapas as South City rings in the New Year!

Free champagne toast at midnight and tons of food and drink specials throughout the night. No cover and open seating available or call to make reservations.

3117 South Grand, St. Louis, 63118.

414.865.0500

HIRO: New Year’s Eve Jubilee

This New Year’s Eve, indulge in a unique Japanese dining experience at HIRO to jump-start your way to a healthier 2012 or let us ring in the new year at your place with our complete catering experience! This special evening will include three and five course dinner selections. Mention “HIRO” for a FREE

glass of champagne for each guest or a bottle of champagne for catering packages of $100or more!

HIRO Sushi & Modern Japanese Izakaya, 609 East Gate Avenue, St. Louis 63130.

314.721.9168

Just John:

Dieta’s 51 & Still Fun Mayan Apocalypse Birthday Bash The Mayan’s predicted the world would end in 2012 but little did they know that our own Dieta Pepsi would be hosting the apocalypse on the mic at Just Johns! Come join Dieta and all her squirrlefriends as they celebrate her 51st birthday and the end of the world 2012 style. The party will also feature DJ Ruben B spinning all night, Bud Light drink specials and cash and prize giveaways.

4112 Manchester, St. Louis, 63110.

314.371.1333

Mango Peruvian Cuisine:

Celebrate Downtown In Style.

Ring in the New Year with style at Mango’s four course dinner and champagne toast. This is a high end dinner ticket that includes an exclusive one-night only four course chef’s menu and champagne toast. Tickets are $50 and

reservations are strongly recommended.

1101 Lucas Avenue, St. Louis, 63101.

314.621.9993

Copia Winery:

New Year’s Eve Champagne Dinner Copia Urban Winery and Market invites you to a New Year’s Eve Champagne Dinner with a special holiday menu and champagne toast at midnight. St. Louis foodies will revel in this dinner with options like lobster bisque and king crab chowder, bacon wrapped smoked shrimp, Alaskan king crab legs, grilled duck breast with confit leg, black sesame ahi and much more.

Reservations will be necessary.

1122 Washington Ave, St. Louis, 63101.

314.241.9463

Meyer’s Grove: Masquerade Party Join the mistresses of Meyer’s Grove for a masquerade party on New Year’s Eve. Come masked and ready to party the house down with new and old friends as Meyer’s Grove throws their first NYE party! Drink specials will be going all night and a champagne toast at midnight.

4510 Manchester, St. Louis, 63110.

314. 932.7003 theVitalVOICE.com | 35

December

PLAYD/a/tes

Welcome to the Play Dates section of Vital VOICE. Each month the VV team will select a number of signature events to keep on your radar.

For a complete list of all vital happening in St. Louis log onto thevitalvoice.com/events.

To submit your next event, simply email vv@thevitalvoice.com with event name, date, location and a 20-word description.

1

World AIDS Day December 1st Worldwide

First held in 1988, World AIDS Day was the first ever global health day. It is an opportunity for people worldwide to unite in the fight against HIV, show their support for people living with HIV and to honor those who have died from AIDS. There are currently an estimated 33.3 million people living with HIV and more than 25 million people between 1981 and 2007 have died from the virus, making it one of the most destructive pandemics in human history. World AIDS Day is important because it acts as a reminder to world that HIV has not gone away and that with awareness, education, advocacy and research a cure is possible.

Webster University World AIDS Day Concert

University Center, 470 East Lockwood Avenue, Webster Groves, 63119 Saturday, December 3rd, 6:00–11:00pm Show your solidarity by attending the 5th Annual World AIDS Day Concert at Webster University. The concert will feature performances by poet and activist Andrea Gibson, a set by the queer folk-rock musician Julie Schurr and student performers. Project ARK will be on site conducting free HIV testing and all donations raised will benefit amfAR (The Foundation for AIDS Research). The event is free and open to the public.

COATure Trivia Night Presented by Pride St. Louis Saturday, December 3rd, 7:00pm 8300 Maryland, St. Louis, 63105

3

Dig out that floor length Prada fur coat because you won’t want to miss out on the 3rd Annual Pride St. Louis Trivia Night with COATure Trivia hosted at the Brown Shoe Company. Doors open at 6:15pm and game play starts at 7pm. The cost is $20 per person with eight people per taple. Donations will be accepted for Isaiah 58 in the form of winter gear, blankets and coats along with shoes for the Shoes for Souls program through Brown Shoe. To reserve a table contact Lauren Rapp at lauren.rapp@pridestl.org or visit pridestl.org/Tivia_Form.html.

36 | December, 2011

6

“A Safe Place” Presented by Meredith Baxter

Tuesday, December 6th, 5:15–9:30pm Holiday Inn SW Viking Center, 10709 Watson Rd., St. Louis, 63127

Meredith Baxter Presents the Premiere of

“A SAFE PLACE”

Join Emmy-winning actress Meredith Baxtor as she presents the premiere of “A Safe Place”, a one-act play by Carol Kline that focuses on the realities of domestic abuse. Tickets are $50 per person and include the Meredith Baxtor presentation and play followed by refreshments along with book signing of Ms. Baxtor’s memoir, Untied: A Memoir of Family, Fame and Floundering that recounts her struggles with domestic violence, substance abuse and her status as an openly lesbian actress.

Funds raised from this presentation will be used to expand shelter capacity and expand transitional housing for women leaving abusive relationships and environments. To purchase tickets please visit: www.comtrea.org/events-training/details/49-a-safe-place-play

9

A One-Act Domestic Abuse Focused Play

by Carol Kline

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2011

This event includes a book signing of Ms. Baxter’s recently released book, Untied, which depicts her struggles with domestic violence, substance abuse, and her recent publicity regarding her lesbian life.

$50 per person, $35 student rate (Includes presentation, play and book signing)

For information regarding a VIP Dinner with Ms. Baxter, please contact COMTREA. sponsored by

Questions, or to purchase your tickets online:

www.comt rea.org 636-296-6206 x4345

Silver Bells: Our 25th Season Celebration!

Presented by Gateway Men’s Chours Friday, December 9th, 8:00pm Edison Theater, 6445 Forsyth Blvd, St. Louis 63105

Silver Bells....Silver Bells...It’s Christmas time in the city....

Yes squirrelfriends, this winter concert promises to be full of holiday cheer and even some surprises as the GMC presents Silver Bells: Our 25th Season Celebration at the Edison Theater at Washington University. VIP and General Admission tickets are available for purchase at www.GMCstl.org

31

First Night at Grand Center

Saturday, December 31, 6:00pm–Midnight Bring your best Xanadu Realness out for First Night St. Louis on New Years Eve at Grand Center! (Yes, this year’s theme is devoted to Olivia Newton-John’s super campy, 80’s gay cult classic!) First Night is an indoor/ outdoor visual and performing arts festival on the streets of Midtown with more than a dozen venues in Grand Center, music, dancing, magic and comedy performances and two fireworks displays to ring in 2012!

Admission is $5 for children and $10 for adults and is an alcohol free event. For more information visit www.firstnightstl.org theVitalVOICE.com | 37

ke day fruitca ditional holi g we did every a tr e th y In my famil !! The most joyous thin t Iona Mae Aun OT was a big N e contest between make the th d s ul a w co n seaso see who battle! orraine to and Aunt L bbler. Honey, it was a ach Cobbler e co P ch y best pea recipe for a Holida ! is e it th cipe Below is ng whose re t). lli te t no m but I’ secre epsi family (That’s a P

Holiday Peach Cobble r Total Time: 1 hour Serves: 6

Ingredients

¾. c flour ½ c. unsalted butter a pinch of salt 2 c. fresh sliced peach es 2 tsp. baking powder

Directions Whisk flour, salt, and baking powder.

Mix with 1 cup sugar and slowly stir in milk to make batter. Melt butter in a 9x9x2 inch baking dish. Pour batter over melted butter: DO NOT STIR. Mix the peaches and 1 cup sugar thoroughly and carefully spoon them over the batter. Bake for 1 hour at 350. Serve hot or cold with homemade vanilla ice cream, if desired.

I usually have my cobbler accompanied by a mug of SoCo infused Egg Nog or grab your favorite bottle of champagne and use the left over peach juice to make a fall Bellini.

Happy Holidays, Squirrels!!

38 | December, 2011

1 c. sugar a pinch of nutmeg a pinch of cinnamon 1 c. milk

Cameron Carpenter is coming to St. Louis!

The Revolutionary World Renowned Organist Headlines The 14 Annual Compton Heights Concert Band’s Holiday Pops Spectacular! th

“The Most Controversial Organist Alive” The Dallas Morning News

“The Maverick Organist”

Powell Hall Thursday, December 22, 2011

The New York Times

2:00 PM & 8:00 PM

“A Young Superstar”

$25-$125

The New Yorker

“Not Your Grandmother’s Organist” The Wall Street Journal

(314) 534-1700

Special Guests:

www.powellhall.com

Elvis! (Steve Davis) St. Louis Metro Singers

Box Seats! Catered Reception with Cameron! (8:00 PM show) Call Compton Heights Band (314) 776-2227 www.chband.org

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theVitalVOICE.com | 39

Paula Poundstone Reception

Compton Heights Private Residence November 12th Paula Poundstone greeted fans and members of the Gateway Men’s Chorus with smiles and chuckles hours before she took the stage at The Sheldon Concert Hall on November 12th. The exclusive event, sponsored by GMC, was one of the hottest tickets in town during November and included a cocktail reception along with a meet and greet with Paula. The guests finished the reception with a rousing performance by the Gateway Men’s Chorus and of course took time for some candid camera shots with Ms. Poundstone.

40 | December, 2011

Scene Styling

ChoiceArt

Concrete Ocean Art Gallery November 19th Art junkies and reproductive rights activists came together on November 19th for 2011’s ChoiceArt event at the Concrete Ocean Art Gallery to support art and Planned Parenthood’s mission of reproductive justice. The annual art auction featured pieces from over 30 different local artists with proceeds going to benefit Planned Parenthood’s mission of reproductive justice and rights through advocacy, education and medical services for the Greater St. Louis area.

theVitalVOICE.com | 41

Vital VOICE dedicates this issue to our Non-profit of the month

T

he LGBT Center of St. Louis is located at 4337 Manchester Ave. in St. Louis’ Mangrove or “The Grove” neighborhood and has been around in various forms since 1975.

Our charge is to serve as a hub for the prismatic and diverse lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender (LGBT) and allied community–indeed, all are welcome through our doors from the queer and gender variant rainbow.

The goal of The LGBT Center of St. Louis is to provide resources and support to the LGBT, questioning and allied community of The Gateway City and its surrounding areas through education, empowerment, outreach, and community building. The Center is currently used as a: • Resource Library • Computer Lab • Information Hub • Event/Meeting Space • Referral Service • Safe Zone • Performance Space • Artist Exhibition(s) 42 | December, 2011

The current Center was founded in 2004 following The National Lesbian and Gay Task Force’s 2004 Creating Change Conference, here. After 3-years of planning and growing remotely, the third LGBT Center of St. Louis opened its doors in the Central West End in July 2008.

Under the direction of then-Executive Director Muriel “Blue” Jones, The Lesbian Gay Bi Transgender Community Center of Metropolitan St. Louis provided meeting space, educational series, art exhibitions, a library and information about the St. Louis community.

In 2011, the newly elected Board of Directors, at the request of the community, decided to move the Center to a larger, more prominent location–hence the move to our historic two-story address.

Since re-opening on July 17, 2011, The Center has been alive with activity offering a growing selection of programming, including Queer Yoga, LGBT Film Series & Discussion, Smoking Cessation–and is the home of The St. Louis LGBT History Project, a resident partner.

Over 810 LGBTers accessed The Center in October where some 20-area organizations currently hold meetings. What’s more–under the direction of Volunteer Coordinator Jill Aul, The Center has 175 trained “Pink Commandos.” These dedicated volunteers not only help The Center, but are available to volunteer for other area organizations as part of our effort to serve the greater LGBT community and beyond.

On Sept. 7, The LGBT Center of St. Louis’ Board of Directors named Center Board president, Leon A. Braxton, Jr. its Executive Director. The Board includes: Colin Lovett (President), Dara Strickland (Vice President), Rick Norlin (Treasurer), Colin Murphy (Secretary), Shane Cohn, Heidi Clark and Scott Emanuel.

So come home St. Louis. We invite you to experience the richness of our performance space, library, gallery exhibits and queer cultural programs. Stay up to date with our information hub or use the free wi-fi throughout the building. Be a part of The Center–it’s your place to call home!

For more info visit: lgbtcenterstl.org or “find us” on Facebook: The LGBT Center of St. Louis

December, 2011