January 2014 by The Vital Voice Magazine

January 2014

Our Annual

ICONS Sly James

Kansas City Mayor

Mike Mullen

Community Activist

Overcoming DOMA

Edie

WINDSOR

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Advertisers at a glance Pinnacle (River City) Clear Channel Just John St. Louis CVC Pulitzer Foundation: Reset Loop Special Business District STL Science Center The Barn/Library Trust Walter Knoll Florist HRC Absolutli Goosed Talent Plus Hamburger Mary’s Butler’s Pantry-Piccone Missouri History Museum Brown Smith Wallace Planned Parenthood Fabulous Fox Theatre Pearl Vodka Kansas City Launch Party

20K Issues Printed Monthly 400+ Points of Distribution throughout the St. Louis and Kansas City area Vital VOICE is your premier

LGBT publication and reaches a diverse readership from thoughtful leaders and young thinkers to trendsetters in culture, entertainment and beyond.

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Publisher/Editor in Chief

Darin Slyman

dsly@thevitalvoice.com

Associate Publisher/Director of Marketing Jimmy Lesch jimmy@thevitalvoice.com

Art Director Andrea Piamonte andrea@thevitalvoice.com

Events Manager Staci Stift staci@thevitalvoice.com

Staff Photographer Mikey Berner Staff Writer Lauren Wagner lauren@thevitalvoice.com

Staff Writer Brent peterson brent@thevitalvoice.com

Staff Writer Hanna botney hanna@thevitalvoice.com

Contributors

Photography: Mikey Berner, Jonathan Pfeifer, Darin Slyman, Donna Aceto,

J Robert Schraeder Photography, The Uppity Theatre Company and Kansas City Mayor’s Office Staff Writing: Jimmy No Show, Andrea Piamonte, Lauren Wagner, Brent Peterson, Hanna Botney and Mikey Berner Design: Jackie Reich

Advisory Board

William A. Donius, Thom Halter, Jay Perez, Pam Scheider, Kellie Trivers and Sharon Tucci

Online

thevitalVOICE.com facebook.com/VitalVOICE twitter.com/VitalVOICEmag youtube.com/TheVitalVISION instagram.com/VitalVOICE

Contact

Vital VOICE Magazine

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

Advertising

vv@thevitalVOICE.com

Table of

Contents

4. advertisers at a glance 7. publisher’s letter 8. 11 sights to see between kc and stl

11. KC Icon: mid-america

Lesbian & gay chamber of commerce

14. STl Icon: joan lipkin & the disability project

18. Kc Community icon: Sly James

23. stl Community icon: mike mullen

31. bad girls club:

Interview with shelly Ray

33. Mikey’s morsels — candied apples 38. skinny cocktails 42. STL playdates 44. KC playdates 46. scene in StL 48. scene in Kc Stay Connected with us Vital VOICE is printed on recycled newspaper and uses soy ink for a 100% recyclable product.

26. On the

Cover The driving force behind the fall of DOMA, Edie Windsor has gone from activist to LGBT icon. (Photography by Donna Aceoto)

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January 2014

publisher’s Letter

2013 Let’s Get Even with

Last Year’s Odd

Happy New Year and welcome to 2014! Vital VOICE is really excited for this year to get underway. As always, we start 2014 on a high note by featuring some of last year’s luminares in our annual ICON issue. We are honored to have Edith Windsor to grace the cover, as she is the epitome of what an ICON can achieve. Last year, Windsor’s U.S. Supreme Court case was crucial in striking down DOMA — making a lasting impression on the LGBT community forever. We are also proud to showcase the Mid-America Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce, the DisAbility Project produced by That Uppity Theatre Company, St. Louis’ beloved Michael Mullen, and Kansas City Mayor Sly James. All of these people and organizations have shown the LGBT community what can be accomplished if we keep our focus on our passions. You may be asking yourself, “What’s KC doing up in here?” Starting with this issue, we are excited to announce that we are expanding the Vital VOICE brand to the Kansas City market. Several months ago, while on a trip to Kansas City, I was pleasantly surprised by the number of people who approached me about the magazine from visiting our website and other social media platforms. So many people were asking me, “How we can get the magazine?” or “Would Vital VOICE ever consider distributing in Kansas City?”

2014

creative LGBT media company for its already established readers that provided progressive content, festive gatherings and modern marketing. Who knows where it will go, but I have always found creativity and change to be exciting. As our society is evolving every day and equal rights are becoming more mainstream, so is our community — along with our straight allies. I am personally proud to have witnessed the growth of our community and company over the past five years. It is with that passion as a community and brand that we march into 2014 as One VOICE, Two Cities. There are many other exciting things to look forward to this year. Would you like to know a little secret? We’ve also been working on an app! Don’t quote me, but you just may be able to download the beta version in Apple’s App Store. I wish you all a very proud, successful, innovative, happy and healthy 2014. Cheers,

After extensive research, internal analysis and risk assessment, we have decided to take the plunge. It is our goal over the next few years to help build a bridge between these two brilliant cities that includes editorial content, entertainment and building business within the community. I believe that our Missouri LGBT community and our straight allies are worth it. We live in exciting times and a statewide Vital VOICE will ensure a stronger future for the LGBT community across Missouri. When I took over Vital VOICE in 2009, I had a dream of building a thevitalVOICE.com

11 Sights to See

Between KC and STL From the must-see to the cannot look away

WriTTen by

Hanna Botney

We have mapped out the perfect road trip for a long weekend this January. We have created a route from St. Louis to Kansas City (or you can flip it around and go from Kansas City to St. Louis) that has a few detours along the way to enjoy beautiful winter sights, delicious food and drink, and the occasional odd Missouri attraction. There is something for everyone — whether you want to get outside, see the unusual or curl up indoors and stay toasty warm.

Art Hill Forest Park

Grab a sled, cafeteria tray, piece of cardboard or whatever you can find and take a ride down Art Hill. Your view includes the pond with lit fountains (assuming it isn’t completely frozen). Forest Park is a staple of St. Louis and sledding down Art Hill is a staple of winter in the city. You’re never too old to sled.

I will gladly let you borrow my nieces if you need an excuse to go sledding.

Hidden Valley Ski Resort Eureka, MO

It isn’t the mountains of Colorado, but Hidden Valley is perfect if you’re missing the slopes. Compared to the West, it’s a lot cheaper. Plus, the runs aren’t too difficult so it’s also a great place to learn to ski/ride or to teach a friend.

P.S. Hit me up before you hit the slopes. I’m coming too.

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January 2014

Historic Saint Charles, MO Saint Charles, MO

Walk along the brick-paved streets of Missouri’s oldest and largest historic district. Whether you want good food, museums, unique stores or a B&B, historic Saint Charles has it all. Take a trip back in time and enjoy the simpler things.

Big Joel’s Safari Wright City, MO

Big Joel’s Safari is a petting zoo and educational park that’s been in operation since July 2012. They boast about their large selection of animals, which includes: majestic bison, watusi cattle, zebu, aoudads, camels, African porcupines and many others. First of all, I haven’t heard of half of these animals. And what makes their bison so majestic? I’m skeptical. The photographs of this place show that it draws a very interesting crowd.

Screw the animals, I am going so I can watch and pet the people.

Belle Starr Playhouse & Cinema, Warrenton, MO

The Belle Starr is a tiny little theater on the quaint streets of Warrenton. They offer anything from passion plays to country music to Elvis impersonators to movies. I’m not sure what to make of the diverse offerings. The theater’s political and religious performances make me want to go in there and stir the pot. They had an entire discussion on how it is wrong that the government won’t allow parents to require their kids to go to church. Require, as in no choice. They called it “Overruled: Government Invasion of Your Parental Rights.”

Someone hold me back.

Frumpy Joe’s Jonesburg, MO

Frumpy Joe’s is a restaurant that has a logo of an overweight cartoon guy’s backside. We are off to a great start. Everything is smothered, twice fried and comes with a side of either blocked arteries or a mild heart attack.

Someone point me in the direction of Jonesburg. STAT.

Adam Puchta Winery Hermann, MO

Hermann is the heart of Missouri wine country. The Adam Puchta Winery is rumored to be the best in the area.

Does this need any other comment? I think not. Let’s drink—I mean taste fine wine.

Missouri State Penitentiary Jefferson City, MO

This penitentiary refers to itself as “The Bloodiest 47 Acres in America” and was once the largest prison in the U.S. Way to go, MO. The prison no longer houses inmates and is open to the public for tours. There are rumors of paranormal activity at the penitentiary, and it’s been featured on Ghost Hunters, Ghost Adventures and inthe film Apparitional. In addition to the regular tours, you can go on ghost tours, ghost hunts and even overnight ghost investigations.

Overnight — in a haunted penitentiary? Nope, no thanks. A big pile of nope.

One Good Taste Country store, Odessa, MO

This country store is your one-stop shop for Amish-style goods. They have

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STL

YOUR SIGHTSEEING map

snacks, candy, jarred goods and grilling essentials. They also have over 140 kinds of American-made and imported cheeses. I didn’t even know there were more than 15 kinds of cheese.

I think I am going to have to see this to believe it.

Longboards Kansas City, MO

Longboards is a hidden gem in

Kansas City. It is a little deli with wraps, salads and sandwiches. The best part is that the entire shop has a Hawaiian theme. There are surfboards, hula skirts, tikis and everything you want in order to feel like you’re somewhere else. Longboards gets business simply by word of mouth. They don’t advertise anywhere, so the fact that they’re popular speaks to the food quality and whole experience.

Enjoy a trip for your taste buds and your soul.

The Phoenix Kansas City, MO

The Phoenix is a Kansas City classic. They pride themselves on local music and local flavor. You can enjoy great music every day of the week.

Honestly, any restaurant that refers to Saturday as “Hangover Saturday” is alright in my book. The food on Saturdays is specially selected by the head chef to cure the aftermath of your Friday night debauchery. thevitalVOICE.com

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Start Your Night at Bistro 303 $3.03 Appetizers 4-6pm Weekdays Creative New Cuisine Featured Daily

Daily Drink Specials and Cocktail Creations

Bistro 303 welcomes Vital VOICE to Kansas City!

Bistro 303 | 303 Westport Rd. KCMO 64111 | 816.753.2303 | www.Bistro303.com

ITâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S BEGINNING TO LOOK A LOT LIKE HILTON. The AAA Four Diamond Hilton President Hotel is the only hotel in Kansas City's Power and Light Entertainment District. Just steps from several dining and entertainment options. We are proud to welcome Vital Voice readers! For room reservations please call 816-221-9490, or visit us at www.presidentkansascity.hilton.com

1329 Baltimore | Kansas City | MO 64105 | USA

January 2014

Kansas City Iconic Organization:

the

Unifying Heartland Inside the largest LGBT chamber of commerce in Mid-America

Written by Brent Peterson Photography by J Robert Schraeder

Photography

After the Employment NonDiscrimination Act (ENDA) successfully passed in the U.S. Senate, the public’s focus started shifting towards equality for all in the workplace. Dan Nilsen, founder of the Mid-America Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce (MAGLCC), is determined to continue that momentum through the Midwest.

HUMBLE BEGINNINGS Nilsen founded the MAGLCC back in May 2012 after more than two years of planning and building. After joining the National Gay and Lesbian Chamber of

Commerce (NGLCC) in 2009, Nilsen, Bishop-McCann’s CEO, was nominated for the Wells Fargo/NGLCC Business Owner of the Year— and won. “After I won, I was sort of the Wells Fargo gay poster boy there for a while,” Nilsen says. Nilsen used winning Business Owner of the Year as the impetus to research and build a subsidiary chamber in the Midwest. Nilsen explained that Bishop-McCann, a brand experiences agency, serves five Midwestern states. Not one of those thevitalVOICE.com

National Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce

states has an LGBT chamber of commerce.

remarks about the importance of the organization.

Affiliates Chambers:

He was determined to change that.

“I remember a point he made that meant so much to everyone there,” Nilsen recalls. “He felt it was important for all employees and suppliers of Hallmark to be able to bring their whole selves to work without fear of reprisal for being who they are. It really meant a lot to hear that from him.”

MIND YOUR BUSINESS Midwest

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International

Southwest Southeast

Pacific Northeast

The most important part of any chamber of commerce is businesses. In order to even get to that point, extensive legal work needs to be done. Nilsen couldn’t do it alone. “I hired an assistant, and she spent probably two-thirds of her time on the Chamber,” Nilsen explains. The two worked tirelessly, researching how to write bylaws, finalizing the location and hammering out all of the legal paperwork. The MAGLCC launched in 2012, and Don Hall, Jr., president and CEO of Hallmark, was there to make

Since the chamber’s launch in 2012, the MAGLCC has enrolled over 140 member entities, 12 of which are NGLCC-certified businesses in Kansas City. NGLCC certification is the rigorous process that majority LGBT-owned businesses can undergo. This certification shows that your business is LGBT-inclusive and allows you to open doors with other top corporations that share the certification status.

States Banning Discrimination In the workplace Sexual Orientation & Gender Identity: All Employment Sexual Orientation: All Employment

Sexual Orientation & Gender Identity: State Employment Sexual Orientation: State Employment

No state-level protection for LGBT employees

January 2014

KC Icon

54%

of likely U.S. Voters support a law banning workplace discrimination

“When a company gets certified, they’re saying ‘not only do we provide workplace discrimination policies protecting our associates and employees, but we’re also doing the same with our suppliers.’” Nilsen says. Upon joining the MAGLCC, depending on the amount spent, organizations receive many benefits, including ads placed on the MAGLCC website, promotions in the newsletter, and admittance to annual business conferences.

IT’S ME AND YOU— AND YOU AND ME Through networking and education, the MAGLCC’s goal is to promote success of the LGBT business community and its allies, and Nilsen has already been successful. “The bottom line is that business relationships happen as a result of a trust,” Nilsen explains. “Trust is gained, usually through friendships or acquaintances, which start over a networking opportunity. We try to hold those events to bring people together.” Many businesses join the MAGLCC because they want to show their customers and employees that their business supports the LGBT community, the same message that NGLCC certification sends. “We [the LGBT community] are a very, very loyal community,” Nilsen offers. “Our allies are members because they want to do business with our community.

“I know for a fact that Danny Zaslavsky from Country Hill Motors has sold cars because of his association with the chamber,” Nilsen continues. “Actually, he just released an ad and he used Proffer Productions for it. The Proffers have a gay son and he used them because they met through the chamber.” Not only are local businesses moving forward, but national corporations are jumping on board as well. “Hallmark was the first company in Kansas City to add LGBT-owned businesses to its supplier diversity program,” Nilsen says. “That’s huge.”

OFF INTO THE SUNSET Over the next 12 months, Nilsen wants to rally Kansas City businesses together. Nilsen explained that the two main goals of the MAGLCC are to identify LGBT-owned businesses and get them to join the chamber, and also to get as many businesses as possible NGLCCcertified.

“We want to solidify our position in Kansas City,” he concludes. With public focus shifting, it is more important than ever for companies to evolve their practices to be an inclusive workplace for all employees. Not just for the sake of protecting employees but to remain competitive. “Diversity is essential for your company to be competitive and innovative,” Nilsen says. “People think that these diversity programs were created to make things fair. That’s not the only reason. They were created to promote innovation and competition.” The next year will be exciting for the MAGLCC as the organization continues to spread and facilitate the growth and prominence of LGBT-owned and – friendly companies. And Nilsen and his staff are eagerly anticipating what’s to come. V

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ST. Louis Iconic Organization:

Joan Lipkin & The

DisAbility Project Creating Change One Show at a Time Written by Lauren Wagner Photography Courtesy of That Uppity Theatre Company

January 2014

STL Icon

When I first heard of the DisAbility Project, I was blown away by the ingenuity of the concept. I saw that it has great potential for influencing people’s perceptions of disabilities and creating change. For 17 seasons now, the DisAbility Project has combined advocacy with theatrical art in their featured original performances.

sparks imaginations, fosters community, encourages civic dialogue, and enhances public awareness about disability through innovative theatre of the highest quality.” Never lacking in symbolism, even the capitalized “A” in the name encourages others to look at disability in a new way.

The project is run by That Uppity Theatre Company, which was founded in 1989 by Joan Lipkin, who also serves as the Producing Artistic Director. As an innovator, award-winning director, activist, educator, and social critic, Lipkin’s specialty is creating works that showcase socially relevant themes and underserved populations.

The Numbers Might Surprise You

These underserved, and often misunderstood, populations include: - People with disabilities - LGBTQ adults and youth - People with Alzheimer’s disease and early-onset dementia - Women with cancer - Suicide survivors - Reproductive choice supporters - At-risk youth “I am also always working on new projects,” Lipkin explains. “I am a contemporary artist, so I respond to contemporary times and concerns.” Both That Uppity Theatre Company and the DisAbility Project thrive on the cutting edge, exhibiting a one-of-a-kind model for a theatre company. As stated in the mission statement: “The DisAbility Project empowers individuals, honors their stories,

Americans with disabilities make up the third largest minority group in the United States. According to the 2010 U.S. Census, there are an estimated 56.7 million people with disabilities, which accounts for nearly 1 in 5 people, or 19% of the population. Despite these vast numbers, people with disabilities still face issues with social inclusion. There is a great need for education, a focus on accessibility, and an open dialogue about these issues.

Creating Change The DisAbility Project is the brainchild of Lipkin and the late Fran Cohen, who had a long successful career as an occupational therapist. These driven women had a vision for creating change. In 1995, they turned that vision into reality when they co-founded the DisAbility Project. The group combines both professional artists and amateur performers to create material that is true-to-life experiences. The DisAbility Project has received a plethora of awards in

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recognition of their avant-garde work, including:

random facts about the

DisAbility Project

- Governor’s Council on Disability Community Enhancement - Focus What’s Right with the Region for Improving Racial Equality and Social Justice - John Van Voris Award - Human Rights Campaign Organizational Equality Award - Arts for Life Special Recognition

Setting the Standard Many new endeavors come with set expectations and predictable outcomes; however, this was not the case when Lipkin and Cohen founded The DisAbility Project. Lipkin spoke about the expectations and experiences during the early days of the project.

people in the U.S. have a disability Artistic director Joan Lipkin creates and directs an annual project at

DisAbility Project members performed their disability rap in the Edward Jones Dome televised event for an audience of

5,600 That Uppity Theatre Company did the ﬁrst theatre work with LGBTQ and allied youth in St. Louis and called the project

“Apple Pie” Two DisAbility Project ensemble members were featured in a campaign for Metro Transit

“I began the DisAbility Project as an experiment,” she explains. “I wanted to see what happened when I got a group of people with disabilities together and began to explore their stories together.” “Ironically, six months after we started meeting, I was diagnosed with breast cancer,” Lipkin continues “I was very sick from my treatment and could only meet intermittently. But overnight, I had moved from the able-bodied to the temporarily disabled.” Lipkin could now empathize with the ensemble members in a whole new way. “That was a big learning experience,” she explains “I realized that we are all temporarily able-bodied. Disability is an experience that crosses all categories of identity including race, gender, class, age and sexual orientation. It is a club that any of us can join at anytime.”

A Growing Experience for All Ensemble members of the DisAbility Project include people with and without disabilities. They are very diverse and committed to creating entertaining and informative performance pieces on the culture of disability. Participants have faced challenges including alcoholism, amputation, asthma, bipolar disorder, blindness, brain injury, cancer, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, epilepsy, HIV/AIDS and multiple sclerosis. Despite any challenges members face, they overwhelmingly describe an inspirational influence the project has had on their lives. Member Tom Allen explains: “The DisAbility Project has given me a chance to let down my defenses within the safety of accepting and supportive friends. Our performances give

January 2014

As the laws change regarding LGBT rights and experiences, our work is needed more than ever, because there is a backlash and we help create a context for understanding. —Joan Lipkin

me a chance to express myself without having to struggle to find the right words. I look forward to our meetings and our performances.” “Being a member of the DisAbility Project changed my life,” says Falk Stuart, another member “It has offered me the opportunity for self-expression; a creative forum in which to have my message heard. Performing tickles my sense of humor, and sparks my joy in being before an audience.”

Taking the Stage The DisAbility Project has reached almost 100,000 people through performances at conferences, fairs, churches, temples, schools from elementary to university levels, and many additional locations. Performances are entirely made up of original material, which adds not only truth to their portrayals, but also a lighthearted take on enhancing public awareness. In conjunction with their passion for education That Uppity Theatre Company and The DisAbility Project also supply study guide worksheets at www.uppityco.com which are free resources that cover lessons on a variety of disabilities.

A Continued Mission When asked about her wishes and vision for the future of the DisAbility Project, Lipkin replied: “I wish we had funding and access to perform for every school in the greater St. Louis

area because to see us is to have one’s life changed. And if students see us, we are planting seeds to change the world.” Lipkin’s enthusiasm and vision is evident as she discusses the future of That Uppity Theatre Company. “Uppity is the producing non profit vehicle for all of the work that we do, “she explains. “I would love to be able to perform our ‘Big, Fat LGBT Show’ at more corporations and social service agencies.” The show has already performed at a wide range of company events and also has a youth friendly version to perform at schools in conjunction with the Diversity Awareness Partnership. “As the laws change regarding LGBT rights and experiences, our work is needed more than ever,” Lipkin explains. “There is a backlash and we help create a context for understanding.” As part of her continued mission, Lipkin is also interested in the growth of their BRIEFS Festival of Short LGBTQ Plays. Lipkin describes BRIEFS as “a really fresh way to provide opportunities to several directors and to showcase work about gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgendered experiences and concerns.” That Uppity Theatre Company, BRIEFS, and the DisAbility Project continue their missions for change and successfully attract one of the most diverse casts and audiences in the area. V

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With his progressive views and extensive work with the LGBT community, Kansas City Mayor

Sly James is creating a Liberal island in a red sea

KC community ICON:

Conquering the Silicon Prairie Brent Peterson Photography by Mayor’s Office Staff Written by

Sly James is many things: a musician, a great cook, a veteran; however, you may know him better as the mayor of Kansas City. James took office in 2011, and is an Independent. He’s been incredibly progressive with his city, both economically and socially. He has helped to advance legislation to offer protections for the LGBT community in the workplace, and has helped the city to achieve a perfect score on the Human Rights Campaign Municipal Equality Index (MEI). In 2012, Newsweek listed James among its “Most Innovative Mayors” for his work in fostering entrepreneurial and technological development in Kansas City’s “Silicon Prairie.” We recently sat and chatted with Mayor James about his work with the LGBT community, his plans for the future, and who is going to play him in the inevitable biopic about his life.

January 2014

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January 2014

KC Icon

Q: You assumed office in May of 2011. Can you tell me about the state of Kansas City’s LGBT community around that time?

A: The state of Kansas City’s LGBT community in 2011 was strong. I was thrilled to receive the endorsement during the election from LGBT political groups and their efforts and support of my agenda was vital to building the coalition that allows me to work hard for the City. Kansas City is blessed with an LGBT community that is active and participates constructively in not only the political dialogue, but also represents a vital presence in the business, arts and civic communities. Q: And since then, you’ve helped the city achieve a perfect score on the Human Rights Campaign’s Municipal Equality Index (MEI). What would you say were the three most important steps your city took to earning that score?

A: We were grateful for the HRC MEI process that allowed us to both celebrate our successes and evaluate where we can continue to improve — I am always looking for ways to continue to make this City even better. This was not a challenge my office assumed on its own. My staff provided me with astute guidance throughout this process. When assembling my team, I was careful to consider diversity. The perspective that diversity lends my decisionmaking was instrumental in pushing this project forward, in particular. Additionally, on May 20, 2013 the entire City Council passed Resolution 130439,

which expresses our collective support for the Human Rights Campaign’s important work and affirms the City’s commitment to the active participation and progress towards a perfect score on the Municipal Equality Index. Our City Council has been and continues to be a vanguard of public servants on matters of equality. This commitment and attention to the issues of our LGBT citizens has created a level of engagement that will allow us to keep improving the living and working environment for KC LBGT citizens.

Q: Has your city’s LGBT community been influenced, either positively or negatively, by St. Louis? I know that KC vowed to get that perfect MEI after St. Louis received theirs.

A: Acknowledging and putting in place policies to address the needs of LGBT citizens is not a contest. We are committed to equality because we value the contributions and lives of all citizens. Q: Where do you see Kansas City in five years, in terms of the LGBT community? How about Missouri? The United States as a whole?

A: It is my sincere hope that a collaboration at all levels of government has taught us all to listen to our citizens and that translates into progressive legislation honoring, welcoming and creating the necessities that allow for all citizens to love and create the families they desire. I also believe we will see more LGBT officeholders.

Q: You played in a band in the ‘60s that opened for Jefferson Airplane in KC. Which Airplane song is your favorite and why?

A: “Volunteers” because it is essentially a protest song. Q: Complete this sentence: “Most people don’t know that...”

A: I love to make beef mushroom risotto. It’s a tradition in my family and now I make it every year for my staff when we gather for our office holiday party. Q: If someone were to make a movie about your time in office, who are your top 3 actor choices to play yourself, and why?

A: My top three choices have to be:

1. Denzel Washington 2. Sidney Poitier 3. Will Smith What’s not to love about these actors who have an envious amount of talent, charm, charisma, good looks, and passion for social justice?

Q: What do you want people to remember the most about your work in the LGBT community after you’ve left office?

A: That part of my work to make Kansas City best included the idea that we are ONE Kansas City. A forward-thinking city embraces diversity and looks past our differences in order to focus on our common interests — like ensuring we have safe and healthy neighborhoods with excellent schools and well-paying jobs. Every resident deserves those things. Q: How do you think that Vital VOICE expanding into Kansas City can help increase awareness of LGBT issues?

A: A key component to social change is advocacy. The addition of this publication to Kansas City will expand the reach of local LGBT advocacy efforts and help educate our citizens. V

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u o y e v a h o t It’s so nice ou belonge back where y

This isn’t the ‘Lou you thought you knew. We’ve got a lot of Pride here. Say “Hello” to awesome nightlife down in The Grove and incredible culture up in the newly remodeled Art Museum. Come see why The Advocate put us in the Top 15 “gayest” cities in America. Check out our impressive packages at explorestlouis.com/LGBT 22

January 2014

Play. Break Dancing. Nail Art. Drag. Yoga. Experience the Pulitzer in ways you never expected. January 17 - January 25, 2014 The Pulitzer Foundation for the Arts pulitzerarts.org 路 @pulitzerarts #Reset

David Scanavino, Untitled (Candy Crush Study), 2013

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St. Louis Community Icon:

Mike Mullen

A Central West End Staple

From Behind the Bar to the Front Lines of Activism

Written by Jimmy No Show Photography by Jonathan Pfeifer

January 2014

STL Icon In the heart of the Central West End, on Euclid Ave. wedged between a CVS and a hair salon, you will find 34 Club. It’s a small neighborhood bar welcoming to everyone — straight, gay, even smokers. Standing behind the bar is community staple Mike Mullen, one of St. Louis’ most understated LGBT activists. Mullen, 55, has worked in the service industry his entire life, but moonlights as one of the community’s biggest and most humble activists.

Foundation of St. Louis as the chairperson for the now defunct AIDS Walk. As the crisis began to spread beyond the LGBT community, so did the event.

Mullen, a St. Louis native, was outed to his family at the age of 17.

Recalling the AIDS Crisis evoked personal heartbreak from Mullen.

“Needless to say, they were very uncomfortable and it caused a lot of problems, but I’m glad it happened,” he says. “It took them awhile but eventually they were accepting.”

“I had friends who were just falling over dead, being disowned by their families and people being shipped off to the hospital for weeks,” he offers with bluntness and heart. “One guy walked into his apartment after being in the hospital for three weeks and his dog was laying there dead because no one went to feed it.”

He’s the type of guy who isn’t complaining about the problem; he’s working on a solution. As part of community that has, at times, needed mending and support, he’s got quite the handyman’s résumé. Mullen has worn many hats throughout his years of activism: St. Louis AIDS Memorial Board Member, Pets Are Wonderful Support Founder (PAWS, as in Art of Paws),The St. Louis AIDS Foundation’s Chairperson for AIDS Walk, Animal House Fund, and HIV/AIDS Liaison Officer for the Mayor of St. Louis. The catalyst for Mullen’s activism was the AIDS crisis. His passion and sincerity is palpable, as he recalls witnessing the AIDS crisis firsthand. “There was no such thing [as AIDS] and then all of a sudden, everyone I was hanging around with was dying,” he says, explaining the depth of the crisis. “Nothing could be done for them. We lost hundreds of friends overnight. It was overwhelming. That’s what scares me about younger people in our community. They’re blind to the realness of the disease.” Mullen, just a warmhearted bartender at the time, became involved with The AIDS

On Being A Good Bartender...

“I think the biggest thing is making sure people are having a good time, and treating people with respect.”

“We made it for everybody. A high school marching band would start it off. It was families too! There were thousands and thousands of people who showed up. It was a sea of people — really moving,” he recalls.

Unnecessary tragedies like those prompted Mullen to create Pets Are Wonderful Support, which is now best known for their Art of PAWS event. “I’m really proud of that organization. Todd Alan has really stepped in and taken it to the next level.” Throughout the conversation, Mullen spoke of his charity work and activism as if his great contributions to St. Louis’ LBGT community were common.

people were screaming and shit!” he laughs. “I looked out the door and there was this mass of people coming down the street, and I thought, ‘How is there something going on today and I don’t know about it?’” For once, Mullen was intentionally left out of the loop. “They had this big banner that said ‘Mike Mullen Day’ and I was like, ‘What the fuck?’” Flashback to May 2, 1999, the Office of the Mayor of St. Louis issued a proclamation naming the day Mike Mullen Day. Mullen explains, “A couple of my friends, behind my back, decided they were going to recreate that as a fundraising event every year. We get together, have a big party and I donate all of my tips from the day [to charity]. We pick four local charities and put out donation boxes for people to put money into. We also have live music, raffles and a silent auction.” The details for Mike Mullen Day 2014 are still being worked out; Mullen likes to play it loose. “I never really try to plan too far in advance because you never know what’s coming around the curve.” This attitude is the hallmark of his Mullen brand of activism, “Someone may give me a call and say somebody needs this, or an organization needs that. That’s when I get up and say ‘OK! Lets do this.’” V

“The best way in the world to meet the best people is to get involved with a charity. Stingy people don’t do nice things,” he laughs. “You meet the kind of people who are caring, giving, generous people. Those make the best friends.” What Mullen failed to realize was that these were all kind words so many people often use to describe him. “I’ve developed this family, this close circle that are the most generous, giving and selfless people you will ever meet. If I decided to do a fundraiser, I can pick up my phone and within minutes, I would have 20 people ready to jump on board. That’s really the best feeling!” The same people he so often calls on turned the tables in a very big and unexpected way. “I was working at Loading Zone and it was a nice day, so I had the door open. All of the sudden, I heard banging and Kazoos, thevitalVOICE.com

January 2014

An Iconic Voice

Edie

WINDSOR

How decades of love changed marriage equality forever Lauren Wagner Photography by Donna Aceto Written by

2013 was a momentous year for LGBTQ rights! News of positive Supreme Court rulings rolled out and created new icons in their wake. Looking back on icons for marriage equality, no one is more prominent than DOMA plaintiff Edith Windsor. For over 42 years Edith, who goes by Edie, and Thea Spyer shared a love that never waned. Little did they know, their love was paving the way for the most monumental marriage equality victory in U.S. history.

History in the Making Like many same-sex couples over the past five decades, Windsor and Spyer lived in secrecy for much of their time together. Allowed only to be open in their close-knit social circle, they were otherwise closeted out of necessity. In 1967, Spyer proposed to Windsor giving her a diamond brooch as a token of their love, because a ring would have been too risky. As the cultural climate changed, Windsorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s extroverted personality and affinity for breaking boundaries made her a natural choice for leadership roles in many New York LGBT organizations.

After years of courtship, and sharing their lives as spouses, Windsor and Spyer were finally legally married in 2007 at a ceremony in Canada. After years of battling multiple sclerosis, Spyer passed away in 2009 and Windsor suffered a heart attack soon after. As she recovered and mourned, Windsor was also hit with a $363,053 bill for inheritance taxes that she would not have been responsible for if their marriage was simply recognized by the federal government. Her first attempt to claim the federal estate tax exemption for surviving spouses was denied and she was compelled to pay the entire $363,053 in estate taxes. thevitalVOICE.com

a look into

EdiEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s LifE 1963 Edith Windsor and Thea spyer met in New York City.

1977 Thea spyer was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis.

1996 Defense of Marriage Act is signed into law banning the federal Government from recognizing any same-sex marriages.

1967 Edith Windsor and Thea spyer get engaged.

1993 Edith Windsor and Thea spyer were among the first New Yorkers to register as domestic partners.

2004 Missouri Constitutional Amendment 2 passes prohibiting the recognition of same-sex marriages in Missouri.

2007 Edith Windsor and Thea spyer are married in Canada.

2009 Thea spyer passed away and Edith was saddled with a $363,000 estate tax on her inheritance. iowa supreme Court unanimously decides in favor of the freedom to marry and couples begin marrying as the ruling goes into effect.

2011 President Barack Obama declares that the Administration will no longer defend dOMA.

2008 Proposition 8 is pushed through by anti-gay forces.

2010 CNN released the first polls showing a national majority supporting the freedom to marry. Proposition 8 is declared unconstitutional by the U.s. district Court of Northern California.

2012 2013 The supreme Court of the United states overturns Section 3 of the so-called Defense of Marriage Act and dismisses the challenge to Prop 8.

January 2014

in New York, U.s. district Court Judge Barbara Jones finds the defense of Marriage Act unconstitutional in Windsor v. United states. On Election day 2012, the freedom to marry triumphs at the ballot in all four states where it is up for a vote: Maine, Maryland, Minnesota, and Washington.

“

We can speak of our heroes—and we have them— but recognize that many of them are accidents of history, as am I.

This injustice only further fueled Windsor and after being turned down by several advocacy groups, she was referred to Roberta Kaplan, a partner at the law firm of Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP. Kaplan agreed to represent her, and in 2010 they filed the case on behalf of Windsor in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York. After petitions and appeals, Windsor’s case found its way to the Supreme Court. The rulings from United States v. Windsor resulted in Section 3 of the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) being declared unconstitutional.

SCOTUS Expectations I asked Edie if she expected her case to get her national attention and be the landmark case it became. “I knew that if I had a total win, that section 3 of DOMA would be declared unconstitutional by the Supreme Court,” she said. “That would make it a landmark case.” Edie remembers the long road filled with unclear expectations,“It took two and a half years to reach the Supreme Court with no assurance that that would happen,” she explained. “I did expect that a Supreme Court win and the plaintiff thereof would receive the national attention it did.”

“Surely Proud of My Fighting For Us” When asked what Spyer would have thought of the landmark case, Windsor opened up about the spouse she shared her life with.

“Thea would be thrilled by all of this, she would love it,” she said. “She is surely proud of my fighting for us and for all the gay couples who want to be treated equally and with dignity. “She was, as I have said so many times, an amazing woman that was beautiful, smart, and adventurous, cared about people and was very talented in many ways,” Windsor continued. “I wish we could all find that kind of love and joy in our lives and I feel very blessed to have had so many years with her.”

Edie’s Philosophy on Life

out, you are helping us move forward.” Windsor sees the importance of patience and remains cautiously optimistic about the future of full marriage equality in the U.S. “It is extremely difficult to try to predict,” she said. “The pace of our progress these last few years has been astounding, but the remainder is not predictable. It must also be remembered that there was a 20 or so year gap between when California allowed people of different races to marry and the time when the Supreme Court mandated equality in marriage for interracial couples.”

“Live life to your fullest capability. Faced with discrimination, seek community on which you can build and maintain selfesteem. Don’t let your life be pressured by hate. Sometimes difficult things happen unpredictably in every life, so don’t postpone joy.”

“Accidents of History”

The Fight Ahead

“We can speak of our heroes—and we have them—but recognize that many of them are accidents of history, as am I. What people may not realize is that I get as much joy and excitement at meeting them and hearing their stories as they have mine.”

Windsor never expected to see the rapid changes in marriage equality that she has witnessed in her lifetime thus far, much less play a central role in the movement. Despite her Supreme Court victory, Windsor acknowledges that there are still battles to be won and she offers advice to those who continue to face oppression. “Keep fighting, be visible, and talk to your families, friends and communities about how much this means to us,” she said. “We have so much momentum and after the Supreme Court decision I think there is no going back. There is a lot of work to do on both cultural and political levels, so whether you are an activist or simply living your life day-to-day and able to be

Windsor and many other activists have paved the way for LGBTQ rights in the United States. Her humble nature is evident when she acknowledges her place in history.

What Now? Now, six months after the Supreme Court ruling, Windsor is one of the most celebrated plaintiffs in the history of the United States and is considered the matriarch of the gay-rights movement. Windsor is excited about the launch of her new website, Ediewindsor.com. She plans to use her celebrity status to “further the issues I care about and continue to speak out about the past and how far we’ve come.” V thevitalVOICE.com

The

Bad Girl is back Andrea Piamonte Photography by Jonathan Pfeifer Written by

Shelly Ray returns to the Bad Girlâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s house ready for a Battle of All Star proportions

January 2014

As rapper 2 Chainz says, “Bad bitch contest, you in first place— or at least that’s what Shelly Ray is trying to do on the second season of Bad Girl’s All Star Battle. This St. Louis “Bad Girl” will be participating in over-the-top challenges, including a twerking competition, a stiletto standoff and an eating contest complete with fish eyes and cockroaches. With singer and actor Ray J as the returning host (we know he’s had his share of bad girls), Bad Girl’s All Star Battle, season 2, will premiere on Tuesday, January 7 on Oxygen.

“Well it’s definitely different from the first season,” Shelly Ray says. “The first season they did challenges that were slightly comical. This time it’s definitely like Real World/ Road Rules type of challenge.” On the Bad Girl’s Club (BGC) spin-off, Shelly Ray and other Bad Girls alums will be competing and living under one roof for a chance to win $100,000 and the title of “Baddest Bad Girl of All Time.” The reality show is kicking it up a notch as they take 16 past infamous “Bad Girls” and challenge them with outrageous tasks. “The challenges are very strenuous and honestly made me challenge myself strength-wise more than I thought it was going to,” she recalls. “It was very mentally and physically challenging. That’s what shocked me! I thought it would be more like a mental game because that’s what BGC is — it’s mental, it’s all mental. And that was not the case this season.” It won’t be easy, considering her opponents in the competition are known for being unruly, highly aggressive and tough females seen on previous seasons of BGC. This season made it especially difficult without a familiar face because Shelly Ray is the only returning star from BGC, Season 7. “It was insanely awkward,” Shelly Ray says. “I literally knew not one single female, which is normally fine for a girl to walk into a room with a bunch of girls they don’t know,” she continues. “Okay. But walking into a house with girls from Bad Girls Club that they consider ‘All-Stars’? That is a pretty freaking scary situation.”

With a reality cast known for having bad reputations, the games began the moment Shelly walked in the door. Her initial competition strategy was to observe and basically people-watch. “You have to pay attention to everyone’s facial expressions and body movements.” she says. “See, I’m a hugger. If someone just looked at me and said ‘Hey what’s up?’ I’m going to know that person is going to take time to get to know — either that or she’s a bitch.” According to Shelly Ray, her observing strategy seemed to get her far in the competition and she learned quite a bit about herself after the experience. “I definitely learned that I’m a stronger individual that I ever thought I was,” she explains. “Not necessarily mentally. I kind of already knew that I am a better person than I was in season 7. Strength-wise, I really underestimated myself because I showed some of these girls exactly what I could do.” However, there is one thing that hasn’t changed from her previous season. Her nickname, Lady Killer, is carried over onto this competition. As the only out cast member, we had to know what’s the deal with that. “I had no idea where that name came from!” She laughs. “I hate it! It was so funny because they gave me the name ‘Lady Killer’ as if I was slaying them down or some ho.” The connotation of her dubbed nickname surely implies that she is a player, but she reassures that isn’t the case. “Name one lady I got with in the BGC house — none. I haven’t tried and don’t wanna try.

“See, I’m a hugger. If someone just looked at me and said ‘Hey what’s up?’ I’m going to know that person is going to take time to get to know — either that or she’s a bitch.”

Most of those girls are ratchet anyways and I’m not really trying to do that.” As a lesbian being in a house full of women, she has her fun but keeps things platonic with the other cast members. Even if there are potential heteroflexibles, she’s a strong believer of keeping her private life just that— private. “If I get that sign that it’s possible, I still won’t even push,” she says. “See that is the one thing you just don’t do — is look like a hoe on national TV.” Shelly’s already has enough to worry about without trying to form a love connection on the show. There is certainly enough drama already present. Viewers can look forward to the show’s bar fights, inevitable altercations between the “Bad Girls” and extreme challenges. With the filming of the show completed, Shelly has recently left L.A. and moved back to St. Louis this past December. The main reason for her move is simple. She couldn’t handle being away from her family and her beloved hometown. “I Skyped my family over Thanksgiving and it was the first time I’ve ever been away from them. That was too much,” she says. “After the show, I stayed and I played. But in L.A., I can’t make a serious life there. I want to be back in St. Louis with my family. My family is my life. As much as I didn’t know it before, I know it now.” She plans to stick around for a while and is currently working as a bartender at Hamburger Mary’s. As for the outcome of the show, viewers will have to see how the competition unfolds for Shelly. “I think I’m going to surprise a lot of people this season,” she says. “With anyone who has watched BGC, season 7, they would have no idea who I was this season because I am completely different.” “I hope that everyone that watches the show know that editing is editing and a human is still a human,” she continues. “I mean it’s TV and it could be different from what it actually is. I just hope that people remember that. If they make me look bad, I am going to be shocked because I was a perfect “Bad Girl” this season. I was as good as good can get on that show.” As good as a “Bad Girl” can be, we suppose. V thevitalVOICE.com

January 2014

Bad Girl Shelly

Tells All on...

…What food she considers herself

I almost feel like I’m an omelette. There’s protein and you can put cheese, which is always good no matter what it is in. It’s versatile! You can add whatever the fuck you want in that shit, make it however you want with whatever you want. When you say omelette, it can be a black and white difference each time. I’m an omelette.

…Her favorite celebrity party girl Britney Spears. Britney will be the best celebrity for the rest of my life. I don’t care if her hair is shaved, not shaved or pregnant, not pregnant. Before I die, I will at least touch that woman’s lips. Britney is my idol and I do not care what I have to do to get to her, but I will get to her.

…her Altercations with Cops:

Well, when I was on the show, I definitely thought that a police officer was a security guard for our show. I felt like he was being very forceful to one of my other cast mates and he kind of bashed her head into the door. You can say whatever the fuck you want about me, but if it’s about someone that I’m with at that moment (whether I’m close to them or not) — I feel like they are in my protective care. I tackled him and I ended up getting arrested for that. So yeah... that’s when I got manhandled, which is my famous quote of the season, ‘I got manhandled!’

…Her most embarrassing tattoos

Andrea Piamonte Photography by Jonathan Pfeifer Written by

…Drunken Fights:

Halloween at Novak’s, waking up with a black eye in a fireman suit that was missing one suspender and my helmet. That Halloween, I literally started a 30-girl brawl in the middle of the street at Manchester. I got jacked in the face by someone who didn’t know they were hitting me. I got pissed and went at them for revenge. It was a full-on Manchester brawl. All lesbians, just brawling. I think everybody took that moment to take everything that they hated about people out on each other. Because they saw people trying to fight and they were just like “Oh fuck, I hate you too!”

Well, the one tattoo that I wish I never got is on my ass and it says “Bueno.” So me and one of my friends — he’s a tattoo artist here in St. Louis—always use to do tattoos and at the end, we would go out to the bar and cheers “bueno.” One day, I decided it was a bright idea to get “Bueno” tattooed to my ass. Obviously, I was intoxicated — then that happened. Now everytime I get naked, that’s tattoed on my ass.

…Her Bitch-spiration (that’s not Britney)

Honestly, I think everyone that knows me has seen me gone crazy — bat shit crazy. They’ve seen me be nice, be sweet, be a bitch — they’ve seen everything. I do, unfortunately, think I’m one of a kind. With my background and everything that I’ve been through, I think I just may be a different breed. As much as I would love to compare myself to somebody so I could feel more normal, I can’t. I feel like, maybe, I might just be myself.

…What she wants in a woman

They have to be confident, secure with who they are and have a sense of humor. I like somebody who is healthy; I don’t like someone who’s on a lot of shit, if you know what I mean. I don’t want someone who drinks all the time. If one night I wanna fucking sit home, I want someone who can eat cupcakes with me and watch Family Guy.

thevitalVOICE.com

These Aren’t Your Grandma’s

Caramel Covered Written & Photographed by Mikey

January 2014

Berner

Column

Apples

CANDIED

APPLES Prep time: 10 mins. Assembly Time: 20 mins, Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s January, so I wanted to start out the year with a little fun: caramel-covered apples with a slight tweak. 3 Servings

Materials: Apples 3 medium Granny Smith Apples 1 package (11 oz.) Kraft Caramel Bits 2 Tbsp water 1 tsp milk 3 wooden sticks Your choice of toppings (e.g., sprinkles, mini marshmallows, M&Mâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, crushed Oreos, etc.)

1. Insert one wooden pop stick (from bag of

caramels) into stem end of each apple. Cover large plate with waxed paper; spray with cooking spray. Set aside. 2. Place the caramel bits in medium saucepan. Add water & milk. Cook on medium-low heat 3 min. or until caramel bits are completely melted, stirring constantly. 3. Dip the apples into melted caramel until evenly coated, spooning caramel over apples if necessary. Allow excess caramel to drip off. 4. Scrape bottoms of apples and start rolling your apples in a variety of coatings for a sweet treat that is perfect for gift giving or for serving on a special occasion. (If your caramel starts to harden before you are finshed with your apples, you can add a teaspoon of water or milk while whisking over heat to make it pliable again.) 5. Place on a prepared plate. Refrigerate at least 1 hour. Remove from refrigerator 15 min. before serving. thevitalVOICE.com

Travel across monumental glaciers and sweeping grasslands to the beautiful and otherworldly frozen landscapes of North America, Europe and Asia ten thousand years before modern civilization, and be captivated by a vision of a world inhabited by creatures both familiar and exotic. Titans of the Ice Age inspires with its bigger-picture perspective on the relationship between climate, the Earth, its resources and inhabitants.

slsc.org/titansvv1

A personalized touch and attention to every detail.

Events (314) 352-7575 | www.wkf.com THOUSANDS OF WOMEN.

HER 36

January 2014

HRC

ONE MISSION.

A fantastic night of entertainment for the women of our community is coming back to BAD DOG BAR & GRILL on

FEBRUARY 22ND with host TRISH BUSCH.

SAVE THE DATE!

or f s u Join ktail Coc ses Clas

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Ciders

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3196 S. Grand absolutligoosed.com thevitalVOICE.com

The

Waistline Resolution

6 Fabulous Cocktails under 200 Calories Written by

Hanna Botney Darin Slyman

Photography by

Chocolate Cake 153 Calories

1.5oz Pearl Whipped 1.5oz Hazelnut liqueur

Preparation:

Shake ingredients vigorously. Strain into a sugar-rimmed cocktail glass.

It’s a new year and a lot of us vow to watch our weight in the coming year. Unfortunately, sometimes that means we have to cut out alcohol but that’s not necessarily the case. We have a few cocktail recipes that have some substitutions and fresh ingredients in order to keep those calories down. Let’s mix it up, lose some weight, and get our drink on! V

Solitaire

167 Calories

1.5oz Capel Pisco .75oz fresh lime juice .75oz simple syrup 1 egg white Preparation:

Shake ingredients vigorously. Serve in a sugar-rimmed coupe glass. Speical Thanks to Robin Schubert, Absolutli Goosed

Basil Mojito 133 Calories

Fresh basil & fresh limes 1.5oz Bacardi Rum Club Soda. Preparation:

Muddle limes and basil with a teaspoon of sugar. Add rum. Shake vigorously with ice. Serve in a bambooshaped glass. Top with more ice and club soda.

Mai Tai

157 Calories

1.5pz Ron Zacapa Aged Rum .75oz Cointreau .75oz fresh lime juice 1 teaspoon of Orgeat Syrup. Preparation:

Shake ingredients vigorously. Serve over crushed ice in a Mai Tai glass.

Grape Caprioska 130 Calories

Juice from 1/2 of a lime 6-8 Fresh Grapes 1 teaspoon of sugar 1.5oz Pearl Vodka Preparation:

Muddle fresh limes & grapes lightly with sugar. Add vodka. Shake vigorously with lots of ice. Serve in a Hurricane glass. Garnish with an additional lime and grapes, if desired.

Simply The Best Margarita: 187 Calories

1.5oz Tequila .75oz Cointreau Juice from 1/2 a lime Juice from 1/2 an orange 1 teaspoon Agave Syrup Preparation:

Shake ingredients vigorously. Strain into a salt-rimmed coupe glass. Garnish with a lime wedge. thevitalVOICE.com

LUNCH COMBOS

See the city in 250 new ways Opens February 14!

Free admission

Presented by

Missouri History Museum Forest Park | 314.746.4599 | mohistory.org

January 2014

Nothing should hold you back. Especially your taxes. Recent changes in Missouri and Illinois have made tax planning more critical for same sex married couples. We can amend prior tax returns and provide advice on next year’s issues. To request our tax planning guide, or to learn more about our services, please contact: John Killoran, CPA, at 314.983.1218 or jkilloran@bswllc.com.

6 CityPlace Drive, Suite 700 St. Louis, MO 63141 www.bswsmallbusiness.com

Because knowing my status is important to me.

We’ve got you covered—with or without insurance. Now accepting health insurance including: Anthem, Blue Cross Blue Shield, United Healthcare and more.

6 locations, one near you | 800.230.plan (7526) | www.plannedparenthood.org/stlouis

thevitalVOICE.com

January

STLPlaydates

1/25 spotlight Reset: About Face Drag at the pulitzer Foundation www.pulitzerarts.org (314) 754-1850

The Pulitzer and GlitterBomb Productions serve up Reset realness. L.A.-based performance artist Raja, St. Louis’ Siren, and artists from St. Louis’ vibrant drag scene will explore emotion universally evident in facial expressions. Third season winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race, Raja describes her drag as “cerebral and provocative.” She strives to blend the masculine and feminine to create an illusion that is not only beautiful, but also thrilling and poetic. Transform yourself with St. Louis’ fiercest makeup artists and manicures by Vanity Projects. Stay after the show to meet the performers. Free admission. 7 – 10 p.m. Makeup and Manicures 8 – 10 p.m. Drag Show 10 p.m. – Midnight After Party with DJ Charlie Buttons

1/3 1/5

West side story at the fabulous fox theatre www.fabulousfox.com (314) 534-1111

This all-time favorite and classic love story set, on the gang-infused streets of New York, soars as the greatest love story of all time from the first note to the final breath. The score features such classics of the American musical theatre as “Something’s Coming,” “Tonight,” “America,” “I Feel Pretty” and “Somewhere.”

1/3 4/26

Comedy-mystery dinner: Bullets in the bathtub at the lemp mansion www.lempmansion.com (314) 664-8024

Every Friday and Saturday night, this lively whodunit period piece features a delicious dinner and audience participation. Set in the 1920s, this murder-mystery will introduce audience members to a cast of zany characters, including: Red. E Mix, the concrete salesman; Harry Hyde, the famous Russian mobster, and J. Edna Hoover!

January 2014

Playdates STL

1/8 2/2

Opus at the repertory theatre www.repstl.org (314) 968-4925

With only four days to rehearse for their most important performance ever, a world-class string quartet takes a chance by hiring a gifted but inexperienced young woman. Onstage the Lazara Quartet is pitch perfect, but behind the scenes they’re coming unstrung as the four artists battle the sweat, tears and pain that go into making extraordinary music seem effortless. This fascinating play is a passionate look at the delicate and complex relationships between artists’ lives and their art!

1/11 1/12

Nuclear cowboyz at the scotttrade center www.scottradecenter.com 1 (800) 745-3000

Nuclear Cowboyz features a storyline conveyed through more than 1000 gravitydefying freestyle tricks performed by the globe’s most dominant freestyle athletes. The action-packed show is complete with heart-wrenching stunts by world-famous Shaolin Kung Fu Warriors, stunning laser effects, the largest indoor pyrotechnics show and an infectious soundtrack comprised of heavy metal, electronic dubstep and alternative hip-hop.

1/18 1/20

Omnimax film: flight of the butterflies at the omnimax theatre www.slsc.org (314) 289-4400

This film follows the monarchs’ perilous journey where you soar a mile high alongside one of the greatest spectacles of the natural world. With breathtaking cinematography from an award winning team including Oscar Winner Peter Parks, be captivated by the true and compelling story of a scientist’s thirty year search to find the monarchs’ secret hideaway.

1/30 2/9

for colored girls...when the rainbow is enuf at missouri history museum www.theblackrep.org (314) 534-3807

Ntozake Shange uses poetry and dance to explore the lives of black women from a variety of perspectives. Structurally, For Colored Girls is a series of 20 poems, collectively called a “choreopoem.” Shange’s poetry expresses the many struggles and obstacles that African-American women face throughout their lives.

thevitalVOICE.com

KC Playdates January 1/23

Pearl vodka Presents spotlight ViTAL VOICE KC Launch

at Bistro 303 www.thevitalvoice.com (314) 256-1196

Join Vital VOICE, Pearl Vodka and Bistro 303 as we celebrate our expansion into the Kansas City market! Hosted by Bad Girls Club alum Shelly Ray and featuring Kansas City’s own DJ Remix, spend the night celebrating St. Louis and Kansas City’s LGBT communities uniting under Vital VOICE’s Two Cities, One Voice slogan. The party runs from 6 to 9 p.m. and is free for everyone!

1/1 1/4

Contemporary Talavera Uriarte at the belger arts center www.redstarstudios.org (816) 474-3250 mdickens@belgerartscenter.org

The Belger Arts Center, in collaboration with Red Star Studios and the Consulate of Mexico in Kansas City, presents an exhibition of over 30 ceramic works by renowned contemporary Mexican artists. To commemorate the 150th anniversary of the Battle of Puebla (also known as the Battle of Cinco de Mayo) in 2012, Uriarte and the University of the Americas Puebla invited recognized artists to create works in conjunction with the talavera tradition. Free tours and hands-on activities are offered to school groups and organizations. To schedule a stand-alone tour or one that includes a hands-on activity.

1/1 3/9

Crown Center ice terrace at the crown center square www.crowncenter.com (816) 274-8411

Kansas City’s only public, outdoor ice skating rink is open for its 41st season! Hallmark Cards, Inc. founder Joyce C. Hall and his son, current Hallmark chairman Donald J. Hall envisioned the complex. It is home to Hallmark’s international headquarters. In the early 1960s, this area was filled with rutted parking lots, abandoned warehouses and a limestone hill cluttered with signs. Crown Center has reversed the decline and its existence has spurred remarkable redevelopment nearby.

January 2014

Playdates KC

1/17 1/18

Kansas city symphony presents: kenny G at kauffman Center for the Performing Arts www.kcsymphony.org (816) 471-0400

Grammy Award-winning saxophonist Kenny G is the top selling instrumental musician of our time. His easy style and smooth sounds will transport you to Havana and beyond. Hear “Songbird,” “Forever in Love,” “Heart and Soul,” “Silhouette,” and “My Heart Will Go On.” Kenny G will captivate and carry you away.

1/17 2/9

Romeo and Juliet at the spencer theatre www.kcrep.org (816) 235-1453

Romeo and Juliet is a co-production with UMKC Theatre, with generous support of the Hall Family Foundation Passion. Romance. Violence. Vengeance. Despair. Death. Love. Romeo and Juliet transcends all centuries. A tale of dangerous rivalries and star-crossed lovers, Shakespeare’s most thrilling and romantic play is a masterpiece of poetry and emotion. In the midst of a bloody feud, fragile love unfolds. With stunning visuals and daring swordplay, this production will inspire and enthuse audiences of all ages. Appropriate for ages 9 and up.

1/21 1/26

Broadway across america presents:Sister act at the kansas city convention center www.kansascity.broadway.com 1 (800) 745-3000

Sister Act is Broadway’s feel-amazing, musical comedy smash! The New York Post calls it “ridiculously fun,” and audiences are jumping on their feet in total agreement! Featuring original music by eight time Oscar winner Alan Menken (Beauty and the Beast, The Little Mermaid, Little Shop of Horrors), Sister Act tells the story of Deloris Van Cartier, a wannabe diva whose life takes a surprising turn when she witnesses a crime and the cops hide her in the last place anyone would think to look—a convent! A sparkling tribute to the universal power of friendship, Sister Act is reason to rejoice!

1/22 2/9

Grounded at the unicorn theatre www.unicorntheatre.org (816) 531-7529

A World Premiere by George Brant! Directed by Cynthia Levin and featuring Carla Noack. Seamlessly blending the personal and the political, Grounded tells the story of a hot-rod F16 fighter pilot whose unexpected pregnancy ends her career in the sky. Repurposed to flying remote-controlled drones in Afghanistan from an air-conditioned trailer near Las Vegas, the Pilot struggles through surreal twelve-hour shifts far from the battlefield, hunting terrorists by day and being a wife and mother by night.

thevitalVOICE.com

Scene in

St. Louis Photography by Mikey

Berner

3. 4.

1. Paul Gibson & David Drainer at Just John 2. Logan Simpson & Gypsy Havoc at Rehab Bar & Grill 3. Bam Bam Bambi & Bryce Bordello at Blueberry Hillâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Duck Room 4. Santa & Kenny Heisinger-Stift at Santa Paws

January 2014

Scene in the STL 5. Jonathan Brace & Dana Graham at Just John 6. Gabe King & Ryder Reeves at Attitudes 7. Joshua S. Brown & Jonathan Brace at Rehab Bar & Grill 8.Cassady Caldwell & Jackie Seal Luvy Duvyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 9. Ashley Faye Bell & Tiffany Wischmeier at Attitudes 10.Jamison Neal & Ethan Sharp at Just John

6. 5. 7. 8. 10.

Just John thevitalVOICE.com

Scene in

Kansas

City

Photography by Darin

Slyman

4. 1. Mike Burnes & Patrick Hall 2. Allyson Berman, Josh Atkins & David Wells 3. David Doyle & Mantissa Vaughn 4. John Lucas & Mike Meier

January 2014

Scene in the KC

5. Rylie Abrams-Hamilton, Blacke Dankert, David Behnke, Justin Cottrell & Black Lowther 6. Derrick Bachman & Bryan Adams 7. Matthew W., Rafa Guzman & Paul Keeton 8. Derrick Plain, Sean McCully, Shawn Smith, Colin Comeau & Dustin Rapier 9. Laron Hill & MarBelle Redd 10. Patricia McManus & Katie Gonzagowski

10.

9. thevitalVOICE.com

Gre Valent at i Day G ne’s ift!

Fabulous Fox Theatre February 7-9 314.534.1111 • MetroTix.com

January 2014