The
Fitness Issue
new column!
PULSE
July 2013
Feel the Burn – Celebrity Workout Videos
Athlete
Ally
Jackson Carter
Hudson Taylor Talks the Changing Face of Sports
A Chat with NBC’s “The Biggest Loser”
Jay Perez
The Perfect Fit
1
Out of
10
Sochi 2014: Visibility Under Wraps
Martina
navratilova
From Reluctant Trailblazer to LGBT Icon
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In this issue July 2013 | Volume 14 | Issue 7
What do you do to stay fit? Pinnacle (Lumière/River City) 2 Santé Fitness 3 Empower/ US Bank 6 Stages St. Louis 8 Just John 10 Wigstomp 15 Walter Knoll 15 Sotheby’s International Realty 15 City of Maplewood 20 Hamburger Mary’s 21 Planned Parenthood 21 Thank You St. Louis 30 Duffe Nuernberger 31 Washateria 31 Scott Lokitz Photography 31 Affordable Quality Writing 31 Mango 37 Pam Schneider 42 Missouri History Museum 42 InMotion 42 St. Louis Science Center 42 HRC 47 Clear Channel 50 Southern Illinois 51 CVC 52
CEO/Publisher Darin Slyman dsly@thevitalvoice.com Executive Editor/Senior Writer Colin Murphy colinm@thevitalvoice.com
run or I try to go on a rk at Pa walk in Forest k... ee w a ce least on r of be m nu e th it or lim t. ea burgers I
Associate Publisher Jimmy Lesch jimmy@thevitalvoice.com Art Director Andrea Piamonte andrea@thevitalvoice.com Chief Photographer Tim brenner tim@thevitalvoice.com Staff Photographer Mikey Berner Staff Writer Matt Jamieson mattj@thevitalvoice.com Contributing Writer colin lovett
nd orses a I ride h . I HATE is nn play te the gym! to g in o g
I keep an insane schedule and liv e off of caffeine and adrenaline. Wha t is this FIT you speak of?
I walk a t mile, on least a ce a we ek, usually arou neighbo nd my rhood.
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Advisory Board William A. Donius, Thom Halter, Colin Murphy, Jay Perez, Pam Scheider, Kellie Trivers, Sharon Tucci
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July 2013
Tennis Legend & LGBT Trailblazer Martina Navratilova chats with Colin Murphy. Cover Photography by R+L.
JOHN WRIGHT PHOTO
4. advertiser's at a glance 16. Lez be real— Lesbian 40. Gay athletics equestrians in st. Louis 7. Editor’s letter 22. Jay Perez: 9. thevitalvoice.com 43. hudson taylor: The perfect fit athlete ally 32. pulse— feel the burn: 11. One out of 10— celebrity workout videos Sochi 2014: Visability under wraps
Colin Murphy examines the anti-gay climate surrounding the Sochi Winter Olympic Games.
Straight ally and equality activist Hudson Taylor talks Athlete Ally and the changing face of sports.
34.
Jackson Carter: A Healthy Inspiration
38. Sante you stay
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Editor’s letter
As the Presses
Roll...
While the post PrideFest glow still hangs in the hair and the seasonal burn of our St. Louis summer kicks into high gear, we welcome you to the 2013 Sports and Fitness issue. There’s no denying the STL is a sports town and our LGBT community is no different. We enjoy a rich history of sport related fun from team athletics and organizations to fanatically following our local Redbirds, Rams and Blues.
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The face and feel of professional sports seems to be constantly evolving as of late – from high profile coming out stories like NBA player Jason Collins to the great work of organizations like Athlete Ally. Make sure to check out our interviews with sports icon Martina Navratilova and AA founder Hudson Taylor. They’re not to be missed. But while the face of sports may be changing, the world is still an oftentimes unwelcoming and dangerous place for LGBTers as we examine the anti-gay air of next year’s Sochi 2014 Olympic Winter games. Also on deck – a pair of fab fitness features on The Biggest Loser’s Jackson Carter and local trainer Jay Perez round out a lineup of fit and fun editorial. In closing, I’d like to give a special shout out to our staff writer Matt Jamieson who will be debuting his new pop culture column, “PULSE” this issue. Matt will be rotating issues with “No Show Knows Music.” Check it out. Cheers,
Colin Murphy, Executive Editor
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column
One of 10 ain’t bad! out
A look into LGBT Life- Past & Present
Sochi 2014:
Written by Colin Murphy Photography by Sochi 2014 & Olympics or Bust
Visibility R Under Wraps
Russia’s much-maligned anti-gay bill barring the distribution of information about homosexuality to children was overwhelmingly approved on June 11 by the lower house of parliament. The
460-0 vote making illegal “propaganda of nontraditional sexual relations” is expected to pass the appointed upper house and affirmed into law by President Vladimir Putin. All of this as
Tyler Duckworth and Charley Cullen Walters
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July 2013
the eyes of the world turn to Sochi and the 2014 Olympic Winter Games. For those not in the know, I’m a lifelong Olympic fanatic and have been following this story with keen interest since last year. Given that this is the Sports & Fitness issue – I thought who better to chat up than my fellow Olympaholics Tyler Duckworth and Charley Cullen Walters of “Olympics or Bust.” The out and proud duo’s coverage of all things Olympics touches on everything from “flame to glory” – from the serious to the silly and everything in-between. Their goal was to cover a rarer perspective of the Games not included by mainstream outlets and what started out as clever, campy and fun videos and blogs sent back to friends and family turned into an online phenomenon. Much to their amazement, on peak days during the
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“The most proactive approach to this issue in Russia is to take accountability here in the U.S. and do the best we can to lead by example.” 2008 Beijing Games, the OOB site received over 50,000 hits a day, and gathered attention from various news outlets around the world. And it’s all for a great cause – since their Beijing debut, they’ve raised thousands of dollars for Paralympics athletes in need of artificial limbs. OOB has also brought its unique brand of coverage to the 2010 Vancouver and 2012 London Games. Last year, Tyler, Charley and crew (Zach Mann, Andy Saunderson and Jay Nowak) interviewed over 30 top-tier Olympians combined – and all medalists; grew their exposure to 10 million views with combined media coverage from ET, The New York Times and MTV and
worked alongside some of the top sponsors of the Games, including P&G, Samsung (for whom Tyler writes a blog), Coca-Cola, and more.
When the Games were awarded to Sochi – the LGBT community immediately pointed to Russia’s cultural crackdown on the LGBT community. The anti-gay propaganda bill is insane - what impact could this climate have on openly gay coaches, athletes and attendees? Russia’s cultural crackdown concerning homosexuality obviously creates a tenuous if not wholly antithetical relationship with the very ethos of
the Olympic movement. The Olympic movement exists to encourage greatness from individuals competing from around the world, regardless of race, gender, sex or political affiliation. Hence the motto: “Citius, Altius, Fortius” or “Higher, Faster, Stronger.” That being said, it is yet to be determined how this internal political crisis concerning individual freedoms in Russia will play out when the actual games begin. I hope and believe that despite whatever political freedoms are not afforded to certain citizens within their national borders, the athletes, coaches, journalists and fans traveling to Sochi will be treated with fairness and respect. Homophobic rhetoric and political ideology exists even here in America still today. The most proactive approach to this issue in Russia is to take accountability here in the U.S. and do the best we can to lead by example.
Out skater Johnny Weir said the following: “My advice [for gay athletes in Sochi] would be: Watch what you do when you leave the Village, don’t be aggressive, don’t wear a big rainbow flag fur coat. If you don’t call attention to yourself, attention won’t come to you.” Thoughts? I think Johnny’s point here is that a rainbow colored fur coat would clearly illustrate that it was not real fur, thereby disqualifying the real purpose of even having it in the first place. Why wear something unless it makes other people think you’re rich!? [Note sarcasm].
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July 2013
Tyler Duckworth and Charley Cullen Walters
His quote is eye-roll inducing to say the least. I’ve always been a fan of him and appreciate his flamboyant approach to fashion, skating and life in general. For him to somehow create
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fairly timid around the issues of LGBT rights. What are your thoughts on this changing? Is it changing? Secretary Clinton was brave in embracing such a philosophy abroad and has championed and created great change concerning LGBT issues both here in the United States and around the world. With the election this Fall of a new IOC president, I think we can look forward to a new era of openness and dialogue concerning LGBT athletes competing at the Games. I have 100% confidence in the IOC that such issues will be dealt with fairly and appropriately.
A group of LGBTers from Russia and the former Soviet republics living in the United States is calling for a boycott of the Games (as many in the gay community are). Is this a good idea? Why or why not?
For the first time since Vancouver there will be no Pride House. This is a real step backwards. Talk about the 14
July 2013
Former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton’s 2011 speech (where she declared that gay rights are human rights on the international stage) was groundbreaking. The IOC did take a stand on Apartheid and Women’s issues – but has been
Make sure to check out Tyler & Charley at olympicsorbust.com v
om
(314) 352-7575 | www.wkf.com
STEVEN
.c
I think I can safely say that most everyone I know in the LGBT community is not only aware for the first time where the next Summer Olympics is being held but also wants to attend! Trust me, ask most people where the next Olympics are being held and you’ll get a blank stare. Not with Rio 2016. It speaks highly about Rio, their celebratory country and their reputation of openness towards the LGBT community. I’m already planning on what I’m going to wear to Copacabana beach!
Events
ill
It is a shame that there will be no Pride House this year. That isn’t to say that there were not passionate individuals trying to make it happen. The best we can do is to look forward to Rio and hopefully see a very different atmosphere concerning the hospitality of such a venue.
Compare Sochi with Rio in terms of embracing the LGBT community/Olympic ideal. It’s a pretty marked contrast.
H
All athletes, coaches, officials and fans should be treated with respect and offered safety by virtue of the Olympic treaty each host city signs when they bid for the Games. For Mr. Weir to suggest “acting gay is asking for trouble” illustrates a complacency on his part to accept the status quo. When and if that status quo engenders violence towards others, a problem therefore arises.
importance of Pride House – you were at the first one in Whistler in 2010.
Te rr y
“parameters of appropriate gayness” is so contradictory to who he is as a person and his actions, it really isn’t worth commentating on any further.
A personalized touch and attention to every detail.
STEPHANIE
10
Tyler Duckworth and Charley Cullen Walters
A boycott of any Olympic Games is counterproductive. The Olympic Games is a celebration of the human spirit. It exists to bring passion for sport to everyone. When any country attempts to make a political statement by choosing to not compete, it ultimately hurts the athletes and takes away from the very essence of the Olympics. Let politicians discuss politics and let athletes compete.
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column
Lez BE REAL
Lesbian
Equestrians Written by Hanna Botney Photography by darin slyman
L
esbian equestrians: women who love women in a sport dominated by women. Sounds pretty great, doesn’t it? Well, that is if you enjoy a string of straight girl crushes and scrounging around for the few gay women. I am a professional show jumper. I have been riding since I was 4-years-old and it has been hard to pull me off of a horse ever since. While other girls were going to high school dances and parties, I was packing up trailers and driving across the country to compete. I wouldn’t have
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July 2013
traded my horse-filled life for anything. Around age 16, I realized that I was into other women. In fact, it was a fellow show jumper who was my first female kiss and ever since then I have been struggling to find other lesbians in the profession. Off the top of my head I can think of 4 women who actively compete and are also into women, yet none of them are open about their sexuality. I’m not sure what it is about the sport that seems to keep women in the closet. Almost everyone knows these women are gay but no one discusses it with them directly. On the outside, the equestrian world is dominated by straight women and openly gay
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“
We wear tight pants, tall boots, and can handle a 1,500-pound animal. You’re welcome.
”
men; what about the lesbians? I followed the only model I knew, and I stayed in the closet in the horse world. Similar to the other gay women, if you were close enough to me, you knew I was gay but it was never discussed. I hid my sexuality from my boss, even going as far as to not introduce my then-girlfriend to her. I didn’t even introduce her as a “friend.” I straight-up did not introduce her at all in order to ensure there was no room for confusion.
have worked for in the last few years. While it was about as nerve-racking as coming out to my parents, it was also just as much of a relief. I was able to be myself. When we would socialize, I could talk about my girlfriend or when we would go to events, I could bring my true “plus one.” Obviously, not everyone is as lucky to have supportive bosses and each person needs to remember that not all states, including Missouri, offer job security against discriminatory practices for LGBTQ individuals.
To me, there seemed to be no other way to exist professionally as a show jumper and a lesbian. So while my fellow riders fawned over the newest, hottest male rider (who would most likely eventually come out), I sat in silence. I even dated a male rider for all of 2 weeks. Now, both of us are out… go figure.
I knew that for me, I could not comfortably stay in the closet and that my bosses were accepting people. I was tired of fake gawking at the newest “it” male rider and I was tired of constantly omitting pronouns when discussing my dating life. I can truly say that I have never been happier with my decision. I have been in the St. Louis equestrian world since I was in kindergarten and I have made a sort of family in the horse business. They all knew me so well already, and it only seemed fitting that they know the biggest part of my identity.
I wish I could venture a guess as to why lesbians are either forced or choose to be silent. I understand that people have their reasons for staying in the closet and I always respect that but it seems as though there is a higher prevalence of closeted women who ride horses. I know they’re out there and there has to be even more than the few I already know about. 1 in 10, right? Personally, I have decided not to be silent anymore. When I was 16, lost, confused, and constantly at horse shows I could have used someone to talk to, or at least someone to serve as a role model. Now that I am older, I hope that I can serve as that person for young equestrians. I have since come out to both horse trainers that I
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July 2013
I share my experiences for several reasons, some slightly more selfish than others. First, to let my fellow lesbians know that gay equestrians exist. We wear tight pants, tall boots, and can handle a 1,500-pound animal. You’re welcome. I also share my experiences because I know this is not exclusive to the equestrian world. There is always a need for role models in our community: women who are out and proud and can show people that being gay is not as scary as it might seem. I urge people who are in the position to do so to come out both personally and professionally because you never know how or whom you might be helping. v
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Somewhere between Mardi Gras and the Christmas Tree Walk is
Let Them Eat Art
Maplewood’s
whimsical tribute to Bastille Day
Friday, July 12, 2013 from 6:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. Visit www.cityofmaplewood.com/LTEA for more information Stroll through historic downtown Maplewood and you will find:
Surprises
Live Art Kids’ Activities
Food and Drink Specials St. Louis favorite
Live Entertainment
Gumbohead kicks off the evening and warms you up for
The Gene Dobbs Bradford Blues Experience
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jay perez:
the perfect fit Written by David Courtney Photography by Darin Slyman
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July 2013
to
To say the very least, new fitness programs are offered on the daily, making it difficult to know which offer legitimate development and which are fading trends. Jay Perez, however, is evolving with the times and presents a service with benefits and ideals that transcend a lifetime. Perez is a certified personal trainer and co-founder of Evolution Fitness, an upscale personal training business that offers in-home services for the busy professional. While they utilize Magna Fitness in Brentwood for customers who prefer the “gym experience”, Perez and his team will travel to a client’s household and create a program based on his or her specific resources and needs. Beyond that, though, they offer a well-rounded program of strength training, yoga, nutrition counseling, and life-style coaching to fulfill a person’s specific requests and establish a healthy lifestyle.
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“Our program is very distinct and offers a holistic approach to health and wellness,” says Perez. Not only do we provide personal training, but we also address issues such as ‘What are you eating? What is your stress level like? Are you getting enough sleep?,’ trying to look at all the factors that influence someone’s health.” Perez began his personal fitness journey 20 years ago when he was advised as a teenager to gain weight. “I was a kid who was painfully skinny,” he admits, and with the encouragement and help from his family and friends he began weight lifting. “I started seeing results and feeling more confident about myself, so I continued with it and have kept up with it ever since then.” Originally from Puerto Rico, he grew up in New Jersey and attended law school at Seton Hall. He left New York City and moved to St. Louis 5 years ago to be with his partner, and most
recently practiced law at Korein Tillery. It was there he met his future business partner, Eric Emig, who managed the firm’s corporate wellness program and trained Perez every day. Perez still practices law part-time, but he became truly excited and passionate about developing a fitness company to help others live healthier and more balanced lives. “Law was always a means to an end. Being a lawyer has definitely helped me to be a better businessman and citizen. But I have always had a lifelong passion for fitness and living a balanced lifestyle.” In the fall of 2012, Perez and Emig came up with the idea for Evolution Fitness, a company of fitness and wellness coaches, and their business venture launched in January 2013. Evolution Fitness is considered to be very unique to the St. Louis area, and
their clientele base has grown rapidly in the past six months. The program now offers several different services, including: strength and conditioning, weight loss and nutrition, medical exercise, sportspecific training, post rehabilitation, prepost pregnancy, youth fitness training, and yoga. Even with the exponential growth, Perez maintains that Evolution Fitness remains very intimate and creates an individual-based and exclusive atmosphere. Recently the group held their first “Yoga Brunch,” where Jay entertained a small group of clientele at his house, cooked them brunch, and hosted a yoga session. They hope to continue to have similar events in the future. The Yoga Brunch also introduces another unique factor to Perez’ practice whereby he focuses on the nutritional component of his trainees’ health. Evolution Fitness looks at personal
training with a holistic viewpoint, examining nutrition, sleep, work schedule, and other stressors. Perez has always valued balanced health, and he studied nutrition further when doctors diagnosed a family member with cancer at a young age. He applied his gained knowledge and began to look and feel even better. Cooking and nutrition are now an important part of his life and business. “I love to cook. (Our home) is predominantly an organic household where I cook 90% of our meals,” declares Perez. For clients, he and his team offer in-home cooking classes and will perform nutritional home walkthroughs to assist in their overall health. Clients of Evolution Fitness love the flexibility of the training staff and truly value the in-home aspect. “The in-home availability is great because it holds you accountable. We show up at your house, evaluate your needs, and work
with you there. It saves you time and gym fees.” In the future Perez hopes to create a more central operating space and wellness center. But, of course, the personal quality of Evolution Fitness will be maintained and in-home wellness coaching will remain a vital component of its goals and vision. “If there is an accommodation a client needs, we will make it.” Perez states, “There is a science and an experience behind working out. For those that are starting out, or even those who want to improve their current fitness level, I highly recommend seeking consultation.” Perez and his team at Evolution Fitness seem an ideal place to look, and they will undoubtedly assist in the evolvement of one’s personal wellness. More information can be found online at www.EvolutionFitnessSTL.com and on Facebook at “Evolution Fitness LLC.” v
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Cover story
JOHN WRIGHT Photo
Martina Navratilova:
Visible Icon
Written by Colin Murphy – Editor Photo courtesy of Payam Studio
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Martina Navratilova is the most decorated female tennis player of the Open era. What’s more, for a majority of her four-decade career, she amassed some 59 grand slam titles (including nine Wimbledon singles championships) as an out gay athlete and reluctant trailblazer.
icon during her hectic schedule at this year’s French Open to talk about her life, visibility and breaking ground.
Long before Jason Collins or even Greg Louganis, Navratilova broke ground in 1981 as one of the first openly gay sports figures. Martina has since become a voice for social justice and LGBT issues, lending her celebrity and voice to a host of causes. Most recently Navratilova joined the Advisory Board of Athlete Ally.
Well, it’s kind of mixed because overall the laws are favorable now that we have full rights, but the French are funny about adoption and In Vitro fertilization, so it’s still difficult for gay couples to have kids. But overall, the protections are much, much better. But on the other hand you have the protests that have been going on here the last couple weekends with people openly protesting gay marriage and
Vital VOICE caught up with the sports
So we’re talking to you from France – what’s the energy like there since they passed Marriage Equality?
the rights of gays and lesbians to have children, so it’s kind of a mixed bag. I was actually in Paris last weekend and saw all of these people walking around with the posters of the male figure, female figure and two kids—these churches busing people from all around the country to come and march. So that was pretty disheartening, I must say. But overall, people in France – most of the population is in favor of marriage rights and clearly about half and half as far as adoption is concerned. But we’re getting there – they’re ahead of us – but from an emotional level, it’s pretty exciting, yeah.
You’ve been interviewed quite frequently since pro basketball player Jason Collins came out. 27
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if I don’t have a problem with it, why do you?
To what do you attribute the changes we’re seeing in terms of gay visibility in professional sports? It’s just visibility, period. Visibility is key and that’s what I talked about at the 1993 March on Washington – I said the key for our community to get ahead is to be visible, to be out, so it’s not us against them. Because it’s so much easier to be prejudiced against something that you don’t know anything about. So I thought it was essential that we come out whenever it’s safe to do so, particularly to our friends and family, as well as the workplace and that’s exactly what’s happened. It’s become such a common thing nowadays that it’s not a big deal anymore. And professional sports was sort of the last bastion and now that barrier has been broken and there’s no going back.
We’re talking during LGBT Pride month – can you remember your first gay pride celebration?
camerawork usa, inc.
How significant is his story? Anytime somebody does something for the first time that’s never been done before, it’s significant. This kind of thing, obviously, is a big deal and kudos to Jason for having the guts to do that. His life will never be the same, but hopefully in a good way. It was a bit of a whirlwind for him and a lot of attention but I think the reaction has been so positive overall that there are no regrets, I don’t think, on his part.
You’ve said in the past that visibility saves lives – could you talk about the impact of an athlete or public figure coming out and the impact that has on our LGBT community, especially our youth.
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That’s where I say it saves lives because there are still so many kids committing suicide over their sexual orientation – feeling alone, feeling isolated, feeling wrong – and it’s so nice for them to have role models that they can look up to. Somebody that is a role model in every sense of the word – being out and proud and gay and saying, ‘you’re okay, there’s nothing wrong with you.’ So there’s no doubt in my mind that he’s already saved lives and will save a huge amount of grief for the future generations and the current generation.
You were also one those role models. I understand that Collins sought your advice before his announcement – who did you have to turn to for advice when you were struggling with the
decision to go public that you were a lesbian in 1981? No, no, no, no—who would I talk to about that? [Laughs.]. I mean there was still so much more shame attached to homosexuality then. The newspapers derided me, the public was jeering and of course the comments from the crowd, the heckling – and I know what my fans had to go through basically defending me in the audience. It was a much, much different time – so no, there wasn’t anybody to talk to about that but I never felt that being gay was a wrong thing. I never felt any kind of animosity towards homosexuals even when I was five or six years old or once I knew when it was when I was eight or nine. I was like, what’s the big deal, who cares, you know? I never had that kind of prejudice or stigma or shame attached to my sexual orientation – so
1993 – the March on Washington – it was huge! And it was the first time that I felt I was in the majority – not a minority anymore. It was kind of funny because we were like, ‘oh look, there’s a straight person’ [Laughs] – you know, walking down the street. It was massive – between half a million to a million people came out and I spoke on The Mall and it was just an amazing, amazing experience to feel the love and acceptance and support from so many people. For the first time I didn’t feel like an outsider and it was just mind blowing for me, personally.
Last question – are you working on any projects currently that you’d like to talk about? I’m working with AARP – which they hired me for health and fitness and it was nice because they didn’t care that I was gay. For them it was about people and reaching the older generation and trying to make them more healthy. I also do a lot of outreach to the community. v
“
...the key for our community to get ahead is to be visible, to be out, so it’s not us against them.
”
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column At least he ’s hot...
The
D A B THE HEARTBEAT OF LGBT POP CULTURE
Feel the Burn Celebrity Workout Videos Written by Matt Jamieson Hello there! My name is Matt Jamieson and for the past year you’ve been reading my articles within Vital VOICE. I want to welcome you to my new pop culture column, we’re calling “Pulse” - because so many people have told me I have my finger on the pulse of pop culture. While I tend to shrug this off, it is more or less true, because my life revolves around TV, movies, music and celebrities. Any questions, concerns? Good, let’s dive in!
At some point in every celebrity’s career, between the embarrassing mugshot and the “allegedly leaked” sex tape, is that old standard that makes or break careers — the workout video. This fad was huge in the ‘80s and into the early ‘90s...before Tae-Bo caught on as the fitness craze. (Remember Billy Blanks and those muscles?) Why sweat in front of strangers in public or workout with some nameless trainer and a bunch of nameless actors on a VHS tape? Now you could be feeling the burn with your
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Here’s a workout that even I can get behind. You know why? It is a real workout, just with the addition of Ms. Fonda. This entire program was wellexecuted, with levels for beginners and advanced. Jane (and her marketing team) knew what they were doing before they rolled this juggernaut out. Fonda’s workout series also helped in a major way to rebound her public image in the ‘80s that had been hurt by her infamous “Hanoi Jane” moniker for her visits to North Vietnam in the 1970s, condemning the US as war criminals. What’s also astounding about Fonda’s workout series, is that it didn’t just end in ‘80s. The series was so successful that it has produced a total of 27 videos since 1982, the latest being “Jane Fonda’s Am/Pm Yoga For Beginners” in 2012! Feel the burn, Jane!
Oh Paula. Before your crazy (drunken?) commentary on American Idol, everyone forgets you used to be a successful choreographer to the music world’s best and brightest. And I think is partially where the wheels started to fall off your bus. While a ‘get up and dance’ workout is a great idea, it falls so flat. At one point, you find yourself dancing to “YMCA” with some of the most obviously gay background actors I’ve seen. Paula should be given credit for her enthusiasm, but the idea just implodes upon execution, straight up.
Marky Mark Workout
One positive upfront - the VHS cover has Mark Wahlberg in his tighty-whities. But beyond that, Mark’s dedication is great but this is just aerosol cheese-whiz cheesy, populated by bad acting and Mark flirting with his costars. What’s worse, there is so much ‘90s slang in here that by the end of the tape it’s a total buzzkill, dude. So let’s recap: Marky Mark - hot. Workout not so hot.
, do now tell me Straight up that anna think you really w out? it’s a work (No, no, no.)
favorite celebrity...if they actually did the workout, which most times was not the case. Now, some of the workout tapes were actually good fitness routines, but as is the case with most celebrity-endorsed ventures, less is more and too much is more than enough. Let’s take a look at the good, the bad, and the downright WTF moments of celebrity fitness workouts.
this workout. I’m very “fonda”
Jane Fonda’s Workout Series
Paula Abdul’s “Get Up and Dance”
CherFitness
How would you not want to work out with the Goddess of Pop? Cher released two workout videos under her “CherFitness” brand in 1991 and 1992. And you didn’t just work out by yourself, Cher was front and center in these videos sweating and stretching with the best of you. And if that wasn’t enough, the first video “A New Attitude” had Cher showing us her own personal workout regime, designed by her trainers. Health and fitness experts loved both tapes, and as they helped Cher expand herself more in the ‘90s. The only questionable and laughable moment is that Cher’s workout clothes at one point are clearly lingerie. Snap out of it, girl!
Zsa Zsa Gabor’s “It’s Simple Darling”
Oh lord, where do I begin with this one? Let’s start with the fact that Zsa Zsa was 76 when this one was filmed. She’s flanked throughout the video by two huge bodybuilders who literally look like Hans and Franz off SNL. Zsa Zsa does do the exercises, only because the bodybuilders literally move her legs and arms for her. She then humiliates the boys by making them do girl pushups and watch her lift a 6 oz barbell. I’m not feeling the burn here, but the cover didn’t lie - it’s truly simple. And a complete waste of your time, darling.
The
WTF? !
Maybe it’s not really that simple, darling.
La Toya Jackson’s “Step-Up Workout”
Whether La Toya Jackson (who, truth be told, I have a morbid curiosity with) is an actual star or not is up for debate. But this is just completely pointless. La Toya is just so middle of the road in this, it’s not funny. The trainer who leads the workout is doing all the work. You see La Toya sweat, but you can tell she is not doing the work. This workout tape was filmed in 1993 yet it’s so ‘80s for absolutely no reason. Also, if you find this on YouTube, watch how she moves off the step. It’s really bizarre. Some of these videos may be a great supplement to a workout, but for me the best way to make things work is the natural way. Don’t just phone it in with a video - go take a jog, lift some free weights, join a gym, and just stay fit. DON’T end up like the celebrities on the latter half of this list. v ackson. y she’s a J She’s luck
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Jackson Carter:
A Healthy
{Inspiration} Written by Denny Patterson Photography by LightBox Network
Jackson Carter became an overnight celebrity and an instant favorite among viewers when he appeared on NBC’s hit show, The Biggest Loser. In addition, he is also the first openly gay man to compete on the show. “When I was in the casting process, one of the producers told me that I would be the first openly gay person and they asked what that meant to me,” Carter said. “I said it’s the same as being a straight contestant. I had no agenda. I was going on the show as an obese person needing help.” Carter began his journey on The Biggest Loser weighing in at 328lbs at the age of 21. Now 22, he weighs around 180, losing altogether around 150lbs. At the show’s finale, Carter came in 3rd place. He describes his experience on the ranch being absolutely crazy. “I went in thinking we would gradually be put into it,” he said. “It was like being thrown to the lions, we definitely had to work really hard. I looked at one extreme for 21 years. I was now living in another extreme to achieve something in my life. It’s nothing to mess with.” Before auditioning for The Biggest Loser, Carter worked as a manager
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at a movie theatre and was a full time student at Weber State University in his home town of Ogden, Utah. Carter also volunteers at Ogden OUTreach Resource Center, a facility for LGBT youth. Due to his busy and schedule and stress, he wasn’t getting the exercise and nutritious foods he needed. Carter’s deciding factor to change his lifestyle was when he was talking to his mom one night. “I was complaining about work and I didn’t like where my life was heading,” he said. “She could tell something was wrong. She kept asking if I’m happy, and I said no, I’m not. I then decided to do something new every day that will improve my life. I started with the little things like quitting my job and moving back home. There was a call for The Biggest Loser, and I drove to the audition. I needed to be a better role model and take control of my health. If I continue down the path I was on, I won’t be around a lot longer. I feel I have so much more to show and give out. Just audition made me see where and how bad my health had gotten. I didn’t realize how out of control it was. I didn’t think I would be on the show until the callback audition. They helped turn my life around.”
It wasn’t so much the fact that Carter wasn’t happy with his body; it was more like he felt he was living outside of it. “At 328lbs, you start to feel like you’re broken beyond repair. I want to live like I am right now. I made other people happy to convince others that I was awesome. They would in turn tell me that and I would believe it. I didn’t have an opinion of myself. They only thing that mattered was how others felt about me. I know everyone is their worse critic. Now I see that, and I pull from that. I thought I was awesome, therefore I am awesome. Being in a healthier place is a key to success. You need to feel good where you’re at.” Carter came out of the closet when he was 14. His sexuality might be an important aspect of his life, but it’s only a tiny part of who he is. He doesn’t feel the need to disguise himself, and he is very proud to be gay. Carter didn’t realize how much his sexuality would affect viewers. His story is relatable to many due to the social stigma about being overweight in the gay community. “I didn’t really think of the impact it would have on the audience. When I returned home and filming was down, I was receiving tweets from people all
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The Biggest Loser
...continued
{Before}
over the world thanking me and saying I inspired them. I mean, when you think of gay people from a conservative standpoint, we’re not just sex crazed people who march in parades. I was just an average normal LGBT person in the media, and I was able to change the mind of some viewers. I am very blessed to be involved with that. “Also, the way the show portrayed my sexuality really targeted LGBT viewers. The producers were very respectful and made sure that I had come out and was comfortable. It was only a small part of my story. I was just another contestant making it to the end. I definitely think people watching me took a positive message.” When it comes to the gay community, a uniform has been etched, and it’s hard to break. Apparently, the “ideal” gay man should have six pack abs, nice butt, clean haircut, etc. “We can’t just walk into a bar and ask someone out. We have to create subtle hints and look a certain way. If you look like this and act like this, he’s okay to dance with. It’s unnecessary to break up into so many categories. Then there comes the sub categories of top,
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bottom, bear, twink – there’s no way to keep up. When we come out of those dark basements, the uniform is stuck with us. I’m happy where I’m at. The only person I have to impress is me. The only think sexier than a good body is confidence.” Carter’s journey on The Biggest Loser might have been an uphill battle, but he wasn’t going to stop. This was Carter’s time to shine. “It was finally time to make me happy. The further I got into it; the opportunity wasn’t going to go away. They would have to pry it from my cold, dead hands. The harder it got, the harder I worked. So many people backed me up, and the reminder of little things such as it’s easier for me to bend down to tie my shoes. I kept looking at the bright side of things, a whole new life.” Since leaving the ranch and returning to Ogden, Carter has done many meet and greets promoting a healthy lifestyle and he plans to re-enroll at Weber this upcoming fall. He plans to lose a bit more weight and begin to build muscle. For the first time ever, Carter loves his body.
Carter was also hired on at the OUTreach Resource Center as its health and wellness coordinator. He tries to let his youth know that they need to go at their own place. “We do a lot of emotional and physical wellness. For someone who looks to make this their lifestyle - if you can’t make your life fitness, then you need to fit it in your life. Don’t make it feel like its work. Make it fun. We do dance games on Xbox, picnics in the park, healthy meals – anything to keep active. It doesn’t have to be hard or work. We also have cooking lessons on what’s good to eat and taking a hands on approach on what to avoid. You’ll gradually see little changes the more you do.” As for any advice Carter can give to anyone who is struggling with their body – keep moving. “Not every diet and exercise plan is going to work for everyone. Experiment. Eat more vegetables and lean meats and less sugar and processed foods. Walk at least 20 minutes a day. If you walk for 20 minutes, you’re getting a good workout. They’re not racing with anyone but themselves.” v
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Tips for the Perfect Chest & Legs
lean legs Despite all of the varieties of lower body exercise you see out there on infomercials, paid ads and at-home fitness videos, there is a lot of smoke and mirrors going on to make you believe that gaining strength and definition in your legs take a lot of crazy lifts and jumps. In fact, quite the opposite is true. Leg strength is improved with only three basic lifts: the squat, the lunge, and the step-up. Just about all other leg exercises are variations or spin-offs of these three basic moves.
Written by Tom Kavanaugh, CPT Photography by Darin Slyman
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Treasured chest The chest–at least for men–is one of those vanity muscles generally not seen by others unless you’re on the beach or hanging out at the pool, but just because it is rarely seen except for certain warmer seasons doesn’t mean it should be neglected other times of the year. Having a strong chest is a confidence builder and shows it as well. Confident people aren’t known for puffing up their shoulders when they walk. The chest is a powerful muscle (actually two muscles: the pectoralis major and pectoralis minor) that aids in many different movements and tasks, so having a strong chest is just slightly more important than having the enviable rock hard chest at the pool. And women don’t need to worry about building a “manly” chest unless they go overboard on the bench press. We’ve all seen a few Amazons who have. The great thing about building a strong chest is it can be built using gym equipment or, if you don’t happen to have a pec-deck on hand, using your own body weight. As with any other muscle group you want to switch things up regularly and hit the chest from different angles.
The standard go-to moves for working the chest are a combination of incline, decline and flat bench presses. These work the chest from top to bottom. Chest flyes also work the chest well, but if done improperly can put undue stress on the shoulders. People with access to a cable machine also can benefit from doing cable presses, which put constant tension on the muscle. Talk to a trainer to make sure you’re using the correct form before attempting heavy lifting on a bench. Different variations of pushups are also great for working the chest and work the core at the same time. In addition to the standard push up try incline pushups (with the hands placed on an elevated surface) or decline pushups (feet elevated). And altering the width of hand position brings other muscles into play, such as activating the triceps more with a narrow hand position.
Squatting may look and feel difficult at first, especially to a novice exerciser, but it is absolutely essential to a complete full-body workout. Proper squats actually require you to tilt your pelvis slightly backwards before you begin your
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descent. This aligns the body properly and makes it easier for you to squat down “through your heels” which is exactly what you’re trying to do. When done properly, squats set off a chain reaction of muscle activity that activates the glutes, hamstrings, and finally the quads before having to fire back up and reverse that kinetic chain of muscle activation. Like I said…..a move that is essential for a full-body workout! Lunges are another basic strength move that sometimes lose their true identity when you see them added with a variety of jumps, twists, or side-steps. While those additions are good to increase calorie expenditure and challenge your balance, the basic lunge (or the ever-popular walking lunge) is something that should be mastered first.
Want more? come workout
with us at
Mix it up and push yourself hard and you’ll have the strong chest you want.
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St. Louis is home to so many fantastic LGBT athletic teams and leagues you just need to find a sport that suits you! Most of the teams listed have started practices by now, but we’ve compiled a list of our LGBT athletic teams and events in the city for you to pick and choose from.
help get back in the swing of things.
varied distance, from one mile to four miles, to accommodate the interests of everyone.
Confluence Crush Roller Derby www.confluencecrush.com
If you saw the 2010 comedy Whip
St. Louis SLAM www.stlslam.com
Gay
athletics
Team Saint Louis www.teamstlouis.org
If you’re looking for indoor volleyball, one of the best kickball leagues in the city or just want more information about staying healthy, Team St. Louis is who you want. The group boasts teams for both indoor volleyball during the winter and kickball in the spring! Recently, Team St. Louis helped to bring NAGVA (the North American Gay Volleyball Association) board to St. Louis during the Team St. Louis volleyball tournament, and is working to bring the outGames to St. Louis in 2016!
in St. Louis
Written by Matt Jamieson
St. Louis G.L.A.S.S. www.stlglass.org
Batter up! Softball is what’s swinging with St. Louis G.L.A.S.S. (Gay and Lesbian Athletic Softball Society) - the premier LGBT softball society in the Bi-State area. The society gives teams the chance to compete and sharpen their softball skills in a seven-week schedule. There is also a skills day the beginning of the season for players to
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Football just ain’t for the boys. And we’re not talking powderpuff either. The women of St. Louis SLAM football take the sport very seriously. The team is part of the WFA (Women’s Football Alliance), and boasts the honor of winning the inaugural WFA championship in 2009. The team’s records continue to improve each year and they are always searching for new members and new supporters!
STL Crusaders
www.stlouiscrusaders.org
Rugby is a sport that is catching more with every year here in the U.S. And here in St. Louis, the St. Louis Crusaders are leading the way for the LGBT community. The Crusaders’ mission is to promote rugby to underrepresented populations, specifically the gay and bisexual men of St. Louis. The St. Louis Crusaders are one of the best rugby teams in the area, and their matches are something of a mix between American football and soccer. Check them out at their practices in Forest Park.
St. Louis Frontrunners
www.stlouisfrontrunners.org
Lace your shoes up and hit the streets with St. Louis Frontrunners - the area’s group of The group meets at 9:00 a.m. on Saturdays and 6:00 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays in Forest Park at the Visitor and Education Center. Special runs are held on the first Saturday of each month at different locations. The runs/walks cover
It - you already know how amazing of a sport roller derby is. The sport’s influence has grown so much that it is in consideration to become an Olympic sport in time for the 2020 Olympics. For now, take a look at the ladies of Confluence Crush Roller Derby league. The league started in 2011 and in two years has grown, and has been accepted into the WFTDA (Women’s Flat Track Derby Association) Apprentice program this year. Check out one of their matches at the Gateway Center in Collinsville some time to see how awesome roller derby really is!
Head Pins Bowling www.head-pins.com
If you want to be involved with a different sport, bowling is one that can just be a lot of fun. Head Pins Bowling is THE league for the LGBT community of St. Louis - and it’s had a great year. The organization hosted the St. Louis Show-Me Classic tournament as a part of the International Gay Bowling Organization (IGBO) in August and September of 2012.
Just Darts!
http://www.leaguelineup.com/ welcome.asp?url=justdartsstl&s id=609229496
Before we begin, yes, darts IS a sport. It helps to sharpen your hand-eye coordination, and your aim is (of course) crucial. Here in St. Louis, there are many dart leagues, but the one you’ll want to be a part of is the “Just Darts!” league. The league competes in various bars throughout the area over several weeks, with teams going head-to-head. It’s just a rollicking good time! v
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Now Open!
Forest Park (314) 746-4599 mohistory.org Tickets: (314) 361-9017 or mohistory.org
Dr. Sharon Fitelson & Dr. Gregory Neff 40+ Years of Wellness Experience
CHIROPRACTIC
ACUPUNCTURE 7800 Clayton Road 1/4mi. E of the Galleria
MASSAGE
Hudson Taylor:
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NOW OPEN at the Saint Louis Science Center
TO $8 SAVE UP
Written by Colin Murphy – Editor Photography by Dakota Fine & OUT Magazine
ATHLETE ALLy
Present this coupon at any Science Center ticket station for $2 off any full-price, non-member admission to this exhibition. Limit 4. May not be redeemed for cash, duplicated or combined with any other discount. Tickets subject to availability. Coupon expires at the end of the exhibition run. Tickets: 314.289.4400 or slsc.org
Read
more!
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“
When I was a collegiate athlete, I heard anti-gay language and saw discriminatory insinuations on a daily basis. There just is no place for it in sport, not for LGBT athletes nor for allies.
”
When three-time NCAA All-American wrestler, Hudson Taylor wore an LGBT equality sticker from the Human Rights Campaign on his wrestling headgear he couldn’t have imagined the far-reaching impact the gesture of solidarity would have.
found the non-for-profit organization Athlete Ally in January 2011, with the mission of educating, encouraging and empowering straight athlete allies to combat homophobia and transphobia in sports. Hudson is presently a coach at Columbia University.
Hudson had witnessed first-hand the ugliness of homophobia in the locker room – this stood in marked contrast to the acceptance shown when a fellow student came out as gay in a theatre course he was attending. He was compelled to take a stand.
Vital VOICE recently caught up with the straight ally and equality activist to talk about Athlete Ally, acceptance, visibility and more.
Hudson soon found himself inundated with e-mails from parents and closeted athletes thanking him for his support. The experience inspired him to
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You’re living proof that one voice can start a movement. Are you surprised at how Athlete Ally has taken off over the past two years?
discriminatory insinuations on a daily basis. There just is no place for it in sport, not for LGBT athletes nor for allies. We need more allies to stand up and exhibit inclusive practices so that all participants in the venue of sports know that they are going to be treated the same, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender expression. For me, I could not stand by and let discrimination and harassment continue to permeate a world that I cared so deeply for.
Could you talk about your decision to first speak out against homophobia in sports? I certainly am humbled by the success of Athlete Ally, which in large part is due to the desire of sports personnel to be more inclusive of LGBT athletes. Many leagues, coaches, and administrators still need education when it comes to implementing inclusive practices, but we are certainly moving in the right direction, and I’d like to think Athlete Ally has played a part it that. I’m very proud of that fact.
Allies are instrumental to any social justice movement - where does your drive to make a difference come from? When I was a collegiate athlete, I heard anti-gay language and saw
It really came when I was criticized for wearing an HRC sticker on my wrestling headgear in college. I was taken aback, and surprised by how much lack of equality there was in sports generally. To think that LGBT individuals would not be treated with respect and dignity propelled my actions to speak out and eventually start Athlete Ally.
You obviously have had a chance to think about this why do you think that sports have traditionally been so unwelcoming to LGBT and women athletes? Historically it seems that sport gave
birth to a hetero-normative environment where being anything other than a heterosexual male was “less than” in some way; however, the opposite could not be truer today. We’ve seen the incredible talent of both female and LGBT athletes, and as a result sports can no longer deny them the same access and respect that are given to male and heterosexual athletes. Everyone is a human being, and despite their sexual orientation, they are a meaningful member of the world of sport.
But again, it takes one voice to start a movement. We have a growing number of allies and some high profile LGBT members coming out in the world of sports. Is this a turning point in LGBT visibility and equality? Without a doubt the intersection of LGBT athletes coming out in sport is at an unmatched point in history. I’m extremely proud of the courage and determination of both the athletes who have come out, and those who have supported them. The visibility of LGBT athletes is going to continue to increase at a rapid rate because closeted individuals are beginning to see that sport is a space of equality, not discrimination or hate. We still have work to do, but the movement towards
respect and inclusion is further towards its goal than ever before.
What’s coming up with Athlete Ally? What are you currently working on? We have a lot of exciting and engaging programming in the coming weeks, months, and year. I have been continuing my educational tours around the country, speaking to a variety of constituents including audiences at colleges and universities, and most recently to the NBA. Our Ambassador program also has been skyrocketing in terms of affiliations, along with our Advisory Board members. We are elated by the momentum of our organization’s work and the upcoming programming.
I read that when you first shared your story your heard from a lot of gay people who said that you’d changed their lives. Could you talk a bit about that? My work has always been of a personal nature, with much care, passion, and dedication to the cause. It is humbling to see and hear the stories of how Athlete Ally has affected people’s lives for the better, and my only hope is that we can continue to make strides and work towards ma king this world, and that of sports, a space for everyone. v
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Playd/a/tes
Let them eat art- Fri. 7/12 www.mo-maplewood.civicplus.com/index.aspx?NID=147 Let Them Eat Art is back for its 8th year and its sure to bring all things amazing to the Historic Downtown Maplewood Neighborhood. This year, get ready for “Night of a thousand cupcakes!” That’s right St. Louis! Let Them Eat Art is giving away one thousand cupcakes! Better get in line. There will also be live music, live demonstrations by regional artists and artisans, belly dancers, Tarot card readers and even a dream interpreter. This is going to be a summer party you do not want to miss!
Legally Blonde, The Musical- Fri. 7/19
old lesbians organizing for change
www.stagesstlouis.org “The rules of hair care are simple and finite. Any Cosmo girl would have known.” They sure are Elle Woods, and Stages St. Louis is bringing those hair care rules with its presentation of Legally Blonde, The Musical. Hear all of your favorite oneliners from the movie like “Omigod, the bend and snap! Works every time!” Come check out Elle and Bruiser Woods as they prance around in pink and Prada!
Friday- 7/19
http://www.oloc.org They may be over 60, but they are nationally known for making a presence in the older lesbian community. This July, they will be in the St. Louis area for their Regional OLOC Gathering! CHARIS, the St. Louis ladies known for singing their hearts out will perform at the conference. Also keynote speakers, workshops, entertainment, dinner, dancing and more! If you’re a lovely lesbian over 60 go to www.oloc. org for more information!
Charis chorus presents, the 5th annual sweet spot cabaret, sat. 7/20 www.charischorus.org You’ve had a sweet tooth and these ladies want to hit your sweet spot at, The 5th Annual Sweet Spot Cabaret! CHARIS, The St. Louis Women’s Lesbian Chorus has been rocking the crowd for years and this show is sure to be a crowd pleaser. Hear a range of music like ragtime, modern pop, R&B and even opera. Enjoy complimentary desserts, wine, and coffee. Gather your crew and make it a fun ladies night of great beats and sweet treats!
The muny- 7/4 www.themuny.org Since 1917, The Muny has been filling its 11,000 seats with theater lovers from all over the country. In its 95th season, The Muny has never failed with a great lineup of amazing shows that please the crowd. The month of July kicks off with Nunsense Muny Style!, followed by South Pacific, Les Miserables and Mary Poppins. Tickets to all shows can be purchased on The Munys website. However, you can’t forget about the 1,500 free seats that are available in the last nine rows to first come, first serve. Gotta love those St. Louis freebies!
ND
2 AUG. PM M 6P – 9
film series on art hill- 7/5-7/26 www.slam.org/filmseries Once the central gathering place for the 1904 World’s Fair, Art Hill is by far one of the most beautiful outdoor spaces in St. Louis! So what could make this space even better? A fabulous film, a cool summer night and a wine basket of course! St. Louis Art Museum presents, The Summer of Love Outdoor Film Series. Every Friday in July, come out for food, music, and festivities, all happening on Art Hill! The series kicks off July 5th with Casablanca. Party starts at 7:00 p.m. and the show starts at 9:00 p.m. This event is free to the community and all ages are welcome.
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SE3D118 O O G TLISt. Louis, MO 6 U L O ., at ABS rand Blvd 3196
S. G
Join HRC St. Louis on August 2nd at ABSOLUTLI GOOSED for our First Friday Happy Hour. The Human Rights Campaign (HRC) hosts First Fridays at a new, fun place every month. Everyone is welcome to this FREE event bring your friends and make new ones. We'll see you on August 2nd from 6 pm - 9 pm.
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Scene & Styling
&
Scene Styling
Photography by Mikey Berner
Christy Schaaf, Jason Quebec & Nikki Allison at honey.
Ben Christensen & Chad Fox at Rehab Bar and Grill
Brandee Hewlett, Shane P. Mullen and Sandy Shipp at Novaks Steven Franken & Bryan Bedwell at Atomic Cowboy
Nicole Bray & Sam Hurley at Attitudes
Curtis Chastain & Stephanie Meyer at Absolutli Goosed
Denny Patterson, Colin Murphy, Colin Lovett & Dedrick Archer at Black and Lou
Tyler & The Minions at Black & Lou 48
July 2013
Meri BlackButterfly Reed & Jalisa Cole at Attitudes
Jim Weckmann, Rich, & Cindy Smith at Hummels on Broadway
RC Searfoss & Justin LaMantia at .honey
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Don’t Caught... get
Not knowing. Know your Status. Get Tested.
100 N. 8th Street, Suite 126 East St. Louis, IL 62201
(618) 482-7175
u o y e v a h o t e ic n o s ’s It g n o l e e b u o y e r e h back w 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