March 2014 by The Vital Voice Magazine

March 2014

hrc president

Chad Griffin Al fisher:

Fired for being Gay

glee’s

Alex Newell

in Network TV’s First Trans Teen Role

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Photography: Mikey Berner, Ricky Middlesworth Photography, Jonathan Barbe,

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March 2014

March 2014 | Volume 15 | Issue 3

Table of

Contents

4. advertisers at a glance 7. publisher’s letter 10. lez be real — Dinah Shore

14. two choirs honoring harvey Milk

19. fired for being gay: Al fisher

22. hrc’s president: Chad griffin

31. Promo Kc with Kyle piccola

34. Will arkansas say “i do?” 34. Will & Grace’s Megan Mullally 39. Penelope wigstock — mardi gras versus st. patty’s day

41. mikey’s morsels — tasty crab cakes

42. STL playdates 44. KC playdates 46. scene in StL 48. scene in Kc

26. On the

Cover

Glee’s star Alex Newell reveals what’s next for Wade ‘Unique’ Adams. Cover Photography by Ricky Middlesworth

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

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March 2014

publisher’s Letter

and Louisiana have also seen couples that have filed suit challenging the states’ constitutional bans on same-sex marriages. In Virginia, a federal judge ruled that the state’s ban was unconstitutional, and Nevada has announced that it will no longer defend its ban on same-sex marriage. In Kentucky, a judge ruled that the state must recognize all marriages legally performed outside of the state. An Idaho court ruled in favor of LGBT couples who want to adopt children. Each day is brimming with hope and excitement with what will come next.

Game Change Last month saw a lot of change on the forefront of the LGBT community. Things are moving lightning fast these days. Every month, LGBT equality grows larger and larger in mainstream America. These are indeed exciting times that we live in. Recently, Missouri University defensive end and NFL hopeful Michael Sam announced he was gay, just months before the national draft. Sam could become the first openly gay NFL player, should a major team draft him. Throes of people have come out in support of his announcement, including Missouri Governor Jay Nixon. Having an out and active NFL player would dispel the stereotype that gays are lacking in masculinity. The sports arena has always been a tough industry for LGBT-ers to openly live their lives while advancing in their careers. It’s also exciting that eight couples, along with the support of the ACLU, filed suit against the state of Missouri for discrimination against their right to be married. Alabama

Indeed, we all have much to be excited about.

I also would like to take a moment to make a few corrections to our Feb. story “Partners in Diversity.” We misprinted Reena Hajat Carroll’s name on the first instance as “Reena Hajat Reena.” We wrote that the Diversity Awareness Project was founded in part by Washington University; it was actually Webster University. One of our infographics misprinted “47 percent of same-sex Missouri couples are female” instead of “male.” Finally, we referred to DAP as the Diversity Awareness Project on final mention, instead of Diversity Awareness Partnership. We apologize for these mistakes and will do our best to prevent them from happening in the future. We have much to look forward to in 2014 as the march towards equality advances ahead.

Darin Slyman Publisher/CEO

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March 2014

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March 2014

Column

Lez BE REAL

Cover Me in Chocolate & Feed Me to the Lesbians

Dinah Shore 2014 Written by

Hanna Botney

Club Skirts Dinah Shore Weekend, often referred to simply as “The Dinah,” is the largest gathering for lesbians in the world. Literally. It is a five-day-long weekend getaway filled with music, entertainment and lots and lots of lesbians. The weekend attracts over 10,000 women from all over the world. Where else can you find that many women looking to get down in one place? Every lesbian worth her weight in Birkenstocks should do this at least once in her life. The weekend is named after Dinah Shore, singer and actress in the 40s and 50s. Dinah was a lifelong golf fan and a huge supporter of women’s professional golf. In 1972, she helped found the Colgate Dinah Shore Winner’s Circle golf tournament, which still exists as the Kraft Nabisco Championship and is one of the major golf tournaments on the LPGA tour. The first unofficial Dinah Shore Weekend took place in 1986 as women flocked to Palm Springs for the golf tournament. This makes

sense, given that lady golfers have to be right up there with softball players. Mariah Hanson produced the first official weekend in 1991 as Club Skirts Presents the Dinah Marquee. Today, Club Skirts Dinah Shore Weekend still coincides with the golf tournament but has a lot less to do with golfing and a lot more to do with lesbians drinking. Although the drinks are flowing and the women are dancing all weekend, there is also important work being done. The Dinah has become a platform to motivate LGBT women. Major LGBT organizations such as NOH8, HRC, GLAAD and many others have a presence in order to educate as well as receive assistance from the women in attendance. Like every other year, there is an impressive list of entertainment lined up to perform over the five days. There will be performances by Erin Foley, Fortune Feimster, Gina Yashere, Evelyn Champagne King, Iggy Azalea, Hunter Valentine, Eve, Mary Lambert, Tegan & Sara and many others.

Erin Foley took a break from her busy stand-up schedule to talk to us for a few minutes. She will be performing on Thursday, April 3 during the “Dinah Comedy Night.” I had the pleasure of meeting her at a show a few years ago and was excited to catch up with her. We talked about her beginnings as a comedienne, her current projects, and her excitement leading up to the (in)famous Dinah Shore Weekend.

Did you always include “gay” jokes or mention the fact that you’re gay on stage? No, I didn’t. I had to figure it out personally before I could figure it out professionally. It was a slow process but I would say in the last five or six years it has become a part of my act. Sometimes I do a few jokes and I call it “gay lite.” It depends on the crowd and whether or not they will be able to relate. The same is true when I ask if there are sports fans and if only five people clap then I am only going to do one joke about sports, but if the whole place claps then I will do more. You have to know your crowd. thevitalVOICE.com

“People are always going to label you. I am not a comic that just does gay shows. I do all different kinds of jokes. You should be able to go into any room and make people laugh.” — Erin Foley

March 2014

A lot of your jokes are about your own life experiences. What is your process for turning those experiences into jokes? I will e-mail myself something or write it down on the random little bits of paper I have around the room. Maybe I’ll write about it immediately or an idea will wind up in my act a year later. Once I dive in, I’ll take my time, write it all out and test it on the audience.

Because you share so much of yourself on stage, is that ever odd for you with fans in any way? I don’t know that I would call it odd. I get it. I am putting myself out there, which opens the door for fan interactions/questions. It does get a little awkward when I talk about dating! If I do an hour show and they leave feeling like they know me, that is a wonderful thing in my book. When I go see stand-up comedy, I want to get to know the comic. It’s similar to watching athletes get interviewed. I don’t want all the stats — I want to know what they eat for breakfast. I want it to be personal.

Some of your jokes are political in nature, of course it depends on where you are, but is there a particular political subject matter that you enjoy talking about the most? I enjoy talking about being gay and politics in general. People always say I have two parties to choose from and I think, “No, I have one party to choose from and hope they don’t screw it up.” I like debating different things but I am, in fact, a gay woman. I like to be in charge of my own body and I like to have basic rights, so I love throwing Republicans under the bus. It gives me so much joy, but politics are very divisive. You have to know where you are and you have to respect other people’s opinions. I craft it in such a way that it is ultimately funny. If we are in the middle of a scandal, I will talk about that. At the end of the day, I

am really just interested in people and politics and religion. If you approach it with an open mind but still stand up for yourself and hold your beliefs, it is interesting to meet people and see how they formed their opinions. If there is an exchange with someone on stage who does not share my opinion, I love it. I like learning from people — as long as they’re not a-holes.

People often refer to you as a “lesbian comic.” Do you mind being categorized that way or do you prefer to be a comic that happens to be a lesbian? At the end of the day, it doesn’t matter, but it is a pet peeve of mine. I am a stand-up comic and I happen to be gay, but people are always going to label you. I am not a comic that just does gay shows. I do all different kinds of jokes. You should be able to go into any room and make people laugh.

You have done Conan twice now. What was that like? It was amazing and I think the second time was even more fun because I was less nervous. Conan is really wonderful; he is the nicest guy. He has been really supportive. They put a lot of diverse comics on that show.

Who are some of your favorite comedians? Is there anyone that inspires you? Wanda Sykes, Brian Regan, Judy Gold, Jackie Kashian. Maria Bamford–she has got to be in my top two or three–makes me laugh so hard that I don’t know what to do with myself. I gravitate more towards female stand-ups. That group (listed above) is the best of the best.

Is there anything else you’re currently working on? My new obsession is my podcast called Sports without Balls. I am an insane sports fan. We just got

picked up by a website called AllThingsComedy.com. Each week, I grab another female comedian and we dissect all kinds of sports through a comedic lens. There’s not a lot of female perspective on sports, unfortunately, but there are a ton of females who love sports, so it’s been really fun.

If you could meet anyone in sports, who would it be? I would love to play a game of catch with Derek Jeter. I would love to meet Martina Navratilova. Her story is so phenomenal both on and off the court. She has done so much for women’s tennis.

Who is the coolest celebrity you have met over the years? The coolest thing that has happened celebrity-wise is that I’ve gotten to work with people I have idolized. I have always idolized Margaret Cho, Wanda Skyes and Judy Gold and now we are friends and I do shows with them. That is the coolest thing ever.

What is your favorite part of the lesbian love fest that is known as Dinah Shore? I have done it a couple times and it is always a lot of fun, so I am looking forward to it. The most fun is watching gay women that don’t have a gay community and they go to Dinah and just lose their minds. They are so happy just to be in this really safe, fun, crazy environment for five days. The entertainment, the drinking... lesbos have the time of their lives!

Will you be hanging out the whole weekend? Yes, I’m definitely going to spend a couple of days at Dinah. I love Palm Springs. The host hotel gets a little crazy so I will probably duck out of that, but I’m looking forward to my show and hitting the dance floor. V

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March 2014

Two Choirs Honoring

Harvey Milk Written by Denny Patterson Photography by Steve Truesdell

Supervisors and served for almost 11 months before being assassinated by fellow, and recently resigned, supervisor Dan White.

Missouri will soon receive the pleasure of hearing the collaboration of two of the state’s prominent gay men’s choruses. St. Louis’ Gateway Men’s Chorus and Kansas City’s Heartland Men’s Chorus will come together to present “I Am Harvey Milk,” on March 29 and 30. Heartland and Gateway have done joint concert projects previously in 1993 and 1997.

“This is a nonlinear piece that shines a light on the work, mission, and life of Harvey Milk,” GMC Artistic Director Al Fischer says. “It’s not a biography. The goal is that audiences will see glimpses and see music and be inspired and find themselves. We’re encouraging people to come out. People should take a look at their own lives and ask themselves, ‘what can I do to be Harvey Milk?’”

“I Am Harvey Milk” celebrates the life and legacy of LGBT icon Harvey Milk, and was written by Tony and Grammy nominated composer Andrew Lippa. This performance tells the story of Milk’s life from childhood to his assassination.

HMC collaborated with five other gay men’s choruses in North America to commission “I Am Harvey Milk.” According to HMC Executive Director Rick Fisher, the songs touch on delicate themes such as activism and bullying.

Milk was the first openly gay person to be elected to public office. He won a seat on the San Francisco Board of

“Audiences will learn about this essential chapter of LGBT history while being entertained through this beautiful and

& Heartland Men’s Chorus

compelling musical,” Fisher says. “Harvey Milk was not particularly remarkable by most accounts. Yet he was a man who became a hero and a martyr for what he believed. Composer Andrew Lippa’s goal was that every single person who hears this will somehow resonate with the person who was Harvey Milk and look for the part of Harvey within themselves.” Each chorus will perform individual sets then come together as a full chorus. Repertoire is inspired by Milk’s famous quote, “You gotta give ‘em hope!” With 200 members singing, Fischer hopes to blow the local community away. “I hope audiences will be blown away by the piece and talk about it for a long time,” he says. “With 200 guys on stage, it’s an exciting big sound and our orchestra is larger than usual. Hopefully we’ll be a part of the national conversation.”

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St. Louis’

Gateway Men’s Chorus (Steve Truesdell)

Dr. Tim Seelig will conduct the Kansas City performances. He previously conducted the 2013 world premiere production in San Francisco. In addition to the March 29 and 30 performances, there will be two additional performances: one in Columbia, Mo. on March 8, and one in St. Louis on April 5. March 8 will also be the first time both choirs will be performing together. “Both choruses are currently getting independent processes,” GMC member Joe Gfaller says. “On March 8, we will all be meeting in Columbia for a full day rehearsal to create one sound for both

March 2014

choruses combined. At the end of that rehearsal, we will be performing for a live audience.” Gfaller has been a member of GMC since January 2012 and looks forward to the opportunity to tell an inspiring and important story. “The title of the concert says the message of the piece,” he explains. “’I Am Harvey Milk’ means more than this is the story of one man. It’s meant to say that each of us in a way reflect that legacy and carry the responsibility and the opportunity to continue the work that he did–to make our community more of a diverse place of all backgrounds that are

valued, appreciated, safe and welcomed. Not only are the singers receiving a certain perspective on the concert itself, but also on the music scene in their respective cities. HMC member Michael Stortz was a member of GMC for 25 years until he was offered a job promotion in Kansas City in January of last year. He moved in February and was able to join Heartland during their open rehearsal period for the summer concert. “I joined GMC right after moving to St. Louis from Indianapolis in February of 1992,” he recalls. “I found that the GMC provided me an instant community of

kansas city’s

Heartland Men’s Chorus

(Courtesy of Heartland Men’s Chorus)

friends in a new city. I perceive the music scene in each city to be quite similar, although I have not yet had the opportunity to explore Kansas City in depth. I am excited to be able to share the stage with friends, both longtime and new.” A similar, but likewise situation happened to Todd Neff. He was involved with HMC on and off from 1992-2012 and joined GMC after his job transferred him from Kansas City to St. Louis in November 2012. He sang in almost 40 concerts with HMC. “An obvious difference is size,” he says. “Heartland regularly sings with over 150 men on stage while Gateway is 50-80.

They are about the same in age, but different in character. “The current GMC board has the same fire and passion that I saw in Kansas City and is determined to take the group to the next level,” he continues. “I think they can learn from the successes and challenges Heartland has faced over the years. Both groups have an outrageous amount of talent and desire to put out a great product.” Unfortunately due to work and time commitment, Neff will not be involved with the “I Am Harvey Milk” performances. He says he is currently on sabbatical.

The Kansas City performances will be held at the Folly Theatre at 8 p.m. on March 29 and 4 p.m. on March 30. Tickets are $15-40 and can be purchased online at hmckc.org or by phone at (816) 931-3338. The performance in St. Louis on April 5 will be at Washington University’s 560 Music Center at 8 p.m. Tickets are $25 and can be purchased online at gmcstl.org. The March 8 Columbia, Mo. performance will be at Missouri United Methodist Church at 7 p.m. This performance is free and open for the public. V

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March 2014

Powerless Catholic teacher fired for being gay

Written by Brent Peterson Photography by Michael Appleton Infographics by Julianna Bonk

Losing your job for being gay: it’s a problem that all LGBT residents of Missouri face. Losing your source of income by simply being who you are. Maybe your boss saw the picture of your boyfriend on your desk and got suspicious. Maybe a colleague saw you holding hands with your girlfriend at an after-work happy hour. Whatever the reason, the reality is that in Missouri, and many other states in the U.S., you can lose your job for being who you are. In the spring of 2012, a story about this

exact situation made national news. And it happened right here in our state. 48-year-old Al Fischer, current Artistic Director for the Gateway Men’s Chorus in St. Louis, was fired from his teaching job for being gay. “I’ve never been so upset,” Fischer recalls. “I was just bereft. It’s the most upsetting thing that’s ever happened to me. I felt powerless.” Fischer was the music teacher at St. Ann’s Catholic School in Normandy, MO. He described the day that he was notified he would soon be out of a job: “We were about to have our staff meeting at St. Ann’s. There was a woman there

from the Archdiocese. She overheard me discussing plans to marry my partner, but then we had a great meeting. “I was giving her all sorts of proactive ideas on her project and everything,” Fischer continues. “It was great. After school, she had a little talk with my principal and said something like ‘Looks like you’re gonna have to fire him.’” Fischer was planning to marry Charlie, his partner of 20 years, in New York, which had just legalized same-sex marriage. Fischer explains that the school’s initial plan was to let him go on March 9, the day after his wedding, and the day of their 20-year anniversary. However, plans changed on February 16 when Charlie thevitalVOICE.com

posted the news on Facebook. “All hell broke loose among the parents after that,” Fischer explained. “They were up in arms wanting to keep me as the teacher. I had universal support, from what I heard, from parents loving me and wanting to keep me around.” Fischer was let go the next day. After seeing the public outpouring of support, Fischer decided to write a letter to the parents, urging them to direct their anger at the people who could make a change: the Archdiocese. “St. Ann’s hands were tied,” Fischer explains. “It was in my contract not to take a public stance against a tenant of the Catholic Church. I broke my contract.” The contract included signing something called the Archdiocese of St. Louis Witness Statement for Those who Serve

in Catholic Education. In this document, which is essentially a morals clause, there are specific provisions. Fischer in particular violated the provision that states, “you are not to take a public position contrary to the Catholic Church,” and “you are to demonstrate a public life consistent with the teaching of the Catholic Church.” “And the ‘public position’ I was taking would’ve been the marriage,” Fischer says. “You know, signing the license. That would have been a searchable event where people could’ve looked up my name or whatever. Publicly, I did something that was against a tenant of the Church.” Fischer didn’t lose just one job. He was also let go from his position of Choir Director at St. Rose Philippine Duchesne. Unlike St. Ann’s, however, Fischer says the pastor at St. Rose

Workplace Discrimination The Employment Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA) would end discrimination of LGBT persons in hiring and retention in the workplace. Despite being introduced in every Congress since 1994 except the 109th, it is yet to pass. Subsequently, LGBT protections differ state to state.

4 ban discrimination based on sexual orientation alone

17 ban discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity

states with workplace protections

of LGBT employees experienced workplace harassment in the last five years of LGBT employees have lost a job because of their sexual orientation. reported having, been discriminated against in hiring, promotion, or job retention because of their gender identity. (Statistics provided by the Williams Institute’s Sexual Minorities in the 2008 General Survey: Coming out and Demographic Characteristics)

had much more leeway to keep him employed, but says he felt that it was ultimately the size of the story that cost him his job there. “The media started getting a hold of it,” he explains. “St. Ann’s hands were tied. I violated my contract, but I never signed any such thing at St. Rose. I think the pastor decided he didn’t want to deal with the heat and the few people who may have problems and took the easy way out.” One of the media outlets that got a hold of the story was the New York Times. While in New York for the wedding, Fischer was contacted by a Times reporter asking to tell his story. It was the first time Fischer spoke directly with the media about his termination. “It was a relief to be done being afraid of it,” he recalls. “I turned away a lot of

out in the workplace 41% of LGBT persons out to some coworkers

commerce. Charlie was the one who did interviews and spoke out. I tried for the longest time to walk the line and be the grown up in the room and to not be vindictive and bitter.” Worth mentioning, both Fischer and his partner were pictured as a couple in the St. Rose photo directory, and were out everywhere. Charlie attended school functions and other events. It was simply the discovery of their relationship and plan to marry by the Archdiocese that caused him to lose the jobs. “What people need to realize, is that even if workplace protections pass in Jefferson City, that still won’t help people who work in the churches,” Fischer says. “It’s a whole different set of rights.” Despite losing two of his four constant jobs, Fischer says the employment search was effortless. Within two weeks

34% of LGBT persons are not out to anyone at work

of the story breaking, he was fully employed at a new school. “People were just bending over backwards to give me a hand,” Fischer says. “There was just a huge outpouring of love.” Despite what happened to him, Fischer said he’s very hopeful about the future, especially given the comments from Pope Francis last year. “I feel hopeful,” he says. “Those are big words, and a brand new voice – brand new mood – coming out of Rome that feels very different. I have hope.” Fischer is currently the Artistic Director at Gateway Men’s Chorus and the piano player at Shaare Emeth congregation. He’s also a music teacher at City Academy and the choir director at College Avenue Presbyterian Church. V

MO regions that have workplace protections for sexual orientation and gender identity

25% of LGBT persons are out to all their coworkers

Columbia Kirksville Kansas City

The Missouri state senate passed a measure banning discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation in employment, housing and public accommodations by a 19-11 vote in May 2013. The House of Representatives has not met to consider the legislation.

St. Louis County Creve Coeur Ferguson Kirkwood Maplewood Olivette Richmond Heights University City Jackson County

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A lot of what we do is rooted in values as old as the Golden Ruleâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;treat others as you would like to be treated, and love your neighbor as yourself. -Chad griffin hrc President

March 2014

Q&A with chad griffin

HRC President talks Supreme Court rulings, controversy, and his plans for global (equality) domination.

Written by Brent Peterson Photography by Todd Franson Infographics by Julianna Bonk The Human Rights Campaign (HRC) is synonymous with equality initiatives for the LGBT community. Rarely does an LGBTcentric story break where HRC isn’t quick to comment. The organization is widely seen as that singular entity that will always swoop in and be the hero to the little guy. Despite the attention they call to important issues, the LGBT community has expressed upset with HRC in the past. Accusations of sweeping trans and minority issues under the rug and questions about what exactly fundraising money is going to support are a few points of interest. We chatted with Chad Griffin, President of HRC, to set the record straight. He talked to us about trans and minority inclusivity, equality initiatives in the U.S. and here in Missouri, and what the future looks like for HRC.

In your words, what is the goal of the Human Rights Campaign?

CG: The goal of HRC is to bring full legal equality and fundamental dignity to the lives of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people, no matter where they live. A lot of what we do is rooted in values as old as the Golden Rule—treat others as you would like to be treated, and love your neighbor as yourself. That’s something most Americans can get behind, and I think that’s why we’re seeing so much success.

What role do you serve as president of the organization?

CG: I wear a lot of hats as HRC president. Sometimes I’m traveling to Jackson, Mississippi to meet with hundreds of our members and supporters and build support for equality across the South. Sometimes I’m on Capitol Hill, huddling with members of Congress ahead of a historic vote for the Employment Non-Discrimination Act.

Sometimes, particularly special to me, I get to meet with LGBT youth, whether it’s the incredible interns we have at our headquarters or homeless youth in places like Salt Lake City, who need a hopeful future more than anyone else.

What has been your proudest moment serving with HRC?

CG: I may cheat here and offer two moments as my proudest. The first was after those historic U.S. Supreme Court rulings last June. We had just stepped outside the Court and heard the roar of the thousands of people outside celebrating those decisions. My cell phone rang, and the caller ID showed that it was a blocked number. Turns out it was the Air Force One operator. President Obama was calling to congratulate us on the Prop 8 victory. That moment really brought home, for me, just how important it is to have a President who is a passionate supporter of LGBT equality. thevitalVOICE.com

The second proudest moment was in the final Senate debate over the Employment Non-Discrimination Act. Just as debate was winding down, Senator Mark Kirk, a Republican from Illinois, gave his first floor speech since suffering a stroke in 2012. Slowly, but with great determination, he described how supporting ENDA and workplace freedom is vitally important to him, in the Illinois tradition of Abraham Lincoln. It still gives me chills when I think about it.

You were a founding board member of American Foundation for Equal Rights, which was the sole sponsor of the Prop 8 case. Can you describe the feeling of hearing the decision from the Supreme Court regarding Prop 8 and DOMA? Being in that courtroom is like stepping onto another planet. You go through huge, heavy doors, two rounds of security where they take away your cell phones and everything else, and finally you step into that grand chamber where silence is enforced. When the Justices took their seats at the front of the room, you could hear a pin drop. They began to read the decisions and we were on the edge of our seats, not knowing whether the next sentence they read might undermine the sentence before. Finally, after just a few minutes–which felt like hours–it was clear that the discriminatory Defense of Marriage Act and Proposition 8 had been struck down once and for all.

HRC does a lot of fundraising all over the country, from galas to speeches. What causes does that money support in Missouri? HRC is working closely with PROMO

and other partners in Missouri to push the Missouri Non-Discrimination Act over the finish line this year. This is critically important because in Missouri, as in a majority of states, there is still no state law protecting LGBT employees from discrimination in the workplace, housing, or public accommodations. We also work to improve the experience of LGBT Missourians in their daily lives when they interact with employers, hospitals and health care institutions, adoption agencies, municipal governments, schools, and other institutions. Through our Workplace Equality Program and its Corporate Equality Index, we’ve helped Missouri-based companies like Monsanto and Brown Shoe Company become better employers for their LGBT employees. The Healthcare Equality Index provides a roadmap for hospitals–including five hospitals in Missouri that have achieved HEI Leader status–to strengthen the care they give to LGBT patients.

St. Louis, and now Kansas City, MO received perfect scores on the Municipal Equality Index this year. How do you feel about these two cities coming out of a traditionally conservative, Republican state? St. Louis and Kansas City are both shining examples of what cities can do for their LGBT residents, particularly in places where the state doesn’t do much for them. In St. Louis, PROMO did wonderful work with city leaders to get them to where they are and a perfect MEI score. In Kansas City, the city council went above and beyond, passing a resolution stating the city would do what it takes to get to a 100 percent on the MEI. I might also point out that just across the river, Kansas City, Kansas earned a zero on the MEI.

HRC has received negative press in the past for not being very trans or minority inclusive; namely, an incident last year about activists being asked to lower their flags at a rally and a minority member’s speech being edited. What are you and the HRC doing to ensure all members of the LGBT community are being protected and represented? What messages would you like to send to the minority community members? We are working hard for equality for our full community and that wouldn’t be possible without a focus on transgender equality and racial justice. After the incident at a coalition event outside the Supreme Court, the entire coalition, including HRC, issued a statement apologizing for the error. But I certainly wouldn’t want to let one individual’s singular mistake discolor a broad tapestry of work for full equality. We continue to fight for a fully inclusive ENDA. We hold corporate America to the highest standards and require companies to prohibit discrimination in the workplace based on gender identity and offer transgender-inclusive healthcare in order to earn a top score on our Corporate Equality Index. Through our Healthcare Equality Index we require hospitals and other healthcare facilities to implement LGBT-friendly policies and practices and train healthcare administrators to be the best they can when it comes to their transgender patients. We continue to push for policies that protect the transgender community at the municipal, state and federal levels. We also have a broad and diverse staff that comes to us from all corners

hrc stats The Municipal Equality Index examines laws, policies and services of municipalities.

Columbia

Using this information, regions are rated with a score 0-100 based on their inclusivity of LGBT who live and work there.

Jefferson City

score of 12

March 2014

score of 74

score of 100

score of 37

of the social justice movement. We certainly understand the deep need for collaborative, intersectional work. Our partnership with the NAACP is profoundly important to me. We’re proud of our Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) and our A La Familia projects. More broadly speaking, last year we made comprehensive and inclusive immigration reform a top organizational priority.

HRC has tirelessly advocated for marriage equality and the U.S. has made great strides, but it’s not over yet. In your opinion, what are the next battleground states for marriage equality? On the day of those historic rulings last June, we set up a bold new goal of bringing marriage equality to all 50 states within the next five years. Since then, we’ve been working around the clock to make that goal a reality. Right now, we’re working with advocates in Oregon to take the issue of marriage equality back to voters this November. If we’re successful this November, Oregon will become the first state to repeal a constitutional ban on marriage equality through the political process. Similar efforts are underway, but perhaps on a slightly longer timeline, in Arizona, Michigan, Nevada, Ohio, and elsewhere.

Let’s look at ten years down the road. Say that marriage equality passes in all 50 states. What then? What comes after for HRC?

First of all, nationwide marriage equality is not the end of the road here in the United States. We must pass ENDA. We must guarantee that our kids can go to school without being menaced by bullies. We must ensure that, at all levels of society,

LGBT people have the same access and opportunities as anyone else. Even as we celebrate our victories here at home, the news is full of stories of LGBT people in places like Russia, Uganda and Nigeria who are facing discrimination and violence every day. In Nigeria, for instance, a new law led to gay men being rounded up and even tortured by the dozens. We can’t stand idly by and tolerate international human rights violations. That’s why HRC recently launched our Global Engagement Program. We’ve got to raise awareness about the fact that, often, anti-gay Americans who are failing here at home are traveling abroad to spread their hate. We’ve got to leverage the influence of the United States government to take action against global human rights violations. Then Secretary of State Hilary Clinton said in 2011, “Gay rights are human rights.”

What is HRC doing to reach the next generation of LGBT activists and straight allies? Are there any youth outreach programs? As young people push to attain the goals of the LGBT community on their campuses, HRC is working to provide tools, facilitate connections with other LGBT student activists across the country and empower youth to fight for LGBT equality on campus and beyond through our Youth and Campus Engagement Program. The program works with student activists on campuses across the country, and we place a particular emphasis on Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) where we educate and organize students, faculty and administrators at HBCU campuses on LGBT issues specific to each institution’s needs. Our HBCU program

The Corporate Equality Index (CEI) ranks corporate policies and practices important to LGBT employees. Companies rated “Best Places to Work for LGBT Equality” in the Kansas City - St. Louis region: St. Louis Monsanto Bryan Cave LLP Thompson Coburn LLP

Kansas City AMC Entertainment Shook, Hardy & Bacon LLP

opens campus-wide debate on LGBT issues, often for the first time. It trains students to build viable student-led LGBT or LGBT-friendly organizations on campus.

How does the U.S. rank with LGBT equality in comparison to the rest of the world? Honestly, it depends on where you live. Right now this country is divided into two Americas. In one America, mostly on the coasts, full legal and social equality is nearly a reality. But in the other America, LGBT people still face incredible discrimination, harassment, and even violence. LGBT young people are still spending sleepless nights, not sure whether they’ll ever achieve basic acceptance. I don’t want to characterize the whole country. Instead, I – and HRC – are singularly focused on uniting this country under a single banner of fairness and equality.

How long do you think to have universal LGBT equality in the U.S.?

On the day the U.S. Supreme Court struck down DOMA and Prop 8, HRC set a bold goal that full marriage equality should be a reality by the end of the end of 2018. As I said before, there are so many more issues than marriage, but the rising tide of public opinion is lifting all boats. Progress on one issue leads to progress on other issues. Every day we win new victories, and there are fewer and fewer defeats mixed in every year. I don’t know if I can put a timeline on universal LGBT equality, but I do know that the future is profoundly hopeful. It’s the greatest honor of my life to be part of that progress. V

The Healthcare Equality Index (HEI) ranks healthcare facilities and designates Equality Leaders. The Equality Leaders in the Kansas City - St. Louis region: HEI Equality Leaders Children’s Mercy East in Independence Children’s Mercy Clinics on Broadway in KC Children’s Mercy Hospitals and Clinics in KC Children’s Mercy Northland in KC VA St. Louis Health Care System in STL thevitalVOICE.com

March 2014

glee’s

Alex Newell

Reveals What’s Next for Wade ‘Unique’ Adams

Written by Andrea Piamonte Photography by Ricky Middlesworth Photography

leeks – Alex Newell and the Glee cast are back and even more fabulous than before.

With the fifth installment of FOX’s Glee kicking off this past February, we talked to Alex who plays fan favorite Wade “Unique” Adams. He has gone from first runner-up on Oxygen’s The Glee Project to becoming a season regular on Glee and playing the groundbreaking role of a transgender teen. As one of McKinley High’s freshest faces, we talked to Alex more on playing a transgender character, the upcoming 100 episode that finally addresses Finn Hudson’s death and an in-depth look at the man behind Unique.

The Start of Stardom

Can you tell me a little bit about how you started your singing career? “I started singing in church a long time ago, probably when I was two years old, and it just kind of formed in different way from influences — being that of musical theater, classical music and jazz and everything under the spectrum really.

Can you tell me about the Glee Project? That was like once-in-a-lifetime competition. It was the first season of The Glee Project, so they were figuring everything out while we were figuring everything out too. And you got to learn so much about what goes into Glee and learn everything that should be expected when we are on the set. It was just an amazing experience.

How was it being in that competition? It was a really great experience meeting some of the The Glee Project cast. They’re some of the best friends that I’ll have for the rest of my life — they’re like family members. The show was basically this summer camp where we were outdoors and all that so we got to experience nature at the same time.

Alex had been perfecting his vocals at the age toddlers start talking. As just a regular high school student, Alex got his first big break on the first season of Oxygen’s reality competition show, The Glee Project. He belted the soulful “I Will Always Love You” by Whitney Houston. He even dressed the part for his performance Jennifer Hudson’s “And I Am Telling You,” complete with a dress and wig.

Why do you think Glee decided to make you a season regular?

With his powerful and impressive vocal range, he tied as runnerup with Lindsay Pearce. His prize? He was granted a guest appearance on two episodes of Glee. However, his stardom didn’t end there, Alex was quickly signed on to be a season regular.

There are so many reasons that go through your mind when you think that you are going to be a season regular on the show. At the end of the day, you are so happy they saw something in you that they really liked and that they want to keep you around for. thevitalVOICE.com

First Trans Teen on TV Alex’s role of Unique is the first transgender teen character on mainstream television. Unique stole the spotlight in a dress and heels. Although Alex is not a transgender person outside of the Glee realm, he surely has his own gender-bending antics with his fashion.

What’s it like playing the first transgender teen on American TV? It’s a learning experience, but it is just an amazing thing to be a transgender character that is representative on primetime TV because you don’t get to see it too often. You don’t really get to see that hands on. You have Laverne [Cox, a transgender character on Orange is the New Black], but that’s on Netflix, and then you have Adam [Torres, a transgender character] on Degrassi, but that is on cable, which is something that not everyone has access to and not everyone can see.

And with your role and International Transgender Day of Visibility coming up on March 31, what does that mean to you? It’s a topic that people don’t know a lot about. You have that platform to show everyone, something that’s not shown often. You have a platform to represent people who don’t have representation all the time, so that’s great.

Because you’re not transgender outside of Glee, how do you handle the misconception that you are? It’s a compliment that it’s a misconception because it means that you are doing your job correctly and that you are believable. If people can see past who I am and just see the character, and the good the character does, it is just great. It’s happened my whole entire life. When I was a kid and I answered the phone, people right off the bat they would think I was my mother answering the phone. If I go to a restaurant and if I am with a group of girls, they will just say, “Hi ladies, how are you?” It’s just one of those things you can’t get upset about.

How do you relate to your character? Oh my goodness. We’re the same but we are so different at the same time. I think it’s that confidence that she exudes all the time. No matter what, she’s just very strong and very positive. In her mind, there’s no changing her and she’s going to be herself and go with that. And I think that’s basically what I am. Once I say something, that’s the end of it. There’s no changing my mind on it.

I love how you play with gender in your fashion. Where do you get your inspiration for your different looks? I love everything about clothes. So some of my inspirations are Beyoncé, and NeNe Leaks is someone that dresses down and Marlo Hampton — like they are always on foot with everything they do. Those are my some of my really big inspirations.

I hear you’re a big shoe fan. What is your favorite pair right now? Christian Louboutin — that should be everyone’s favorite kind of shoe. Another big favorite is Jefferey Campbell. They are so comfortable, so edgy and different. I love shoes. I could talk about shoes for hours.

Well, in that case… Have you ever broken a heel? Yes! While performing mind you. I was in Jersey Pride last summer and I had just walked off the stage. I was singing and then all of the sudden the heel just broke. The heel broke clean off my foot. Luckily, I had a pair of spare heels in my suitcase back in the hotel room, so I had my manager run all the way back to grab these spare pair of heels and run back. You always have to come prepared.

the 100th Episode Alex and the rest of the original Glee cast have returned for another season and questions will finally be answered. With the show’s reunion, the cast will be starting the season without one important voice. After a combined overdose of heroin and alcohol, Glee’s quarterback and star Cory Monteith passed away in July 2013. The Glee cast honored the loss of the actor in the tribute episode “The Quarterback,” but never fully explained the cause of death in the storylines. After a slight hiatus, the character’s passing will finally be acknowledged and dealt with in the 100th episode as a two-part special on March 25 and 28.

Word on the street is that the 100th Episode will deal with Cory Monteith, Finn Hudson’s death. Can you give us a little sneak peak? “You know, he’s such a giant part of the show and he’ll always be,” Alex says. “We’re honoring him, but at the same time, we’re looking back at the past and reflecting on it all. And I think that’s such an important thing and something we should do.”

Big Voice, Big Dreams In addition to the new season, Alex has plenty in store for this year after recently signing a record deal with Atlantic Records. Continuing alongside Glee executive music producer Adam Anders, Alex has teamed up with Deep Well Records to release his debut album.

I heard that you signed a deal with Atlantic Records. What can you tell us about that? What is most exciting to you? My album is something that we’re still trying to find the right sound. It has been an amazing experience so far. Singing is my passion and music is everything that I know. I’m just trying to fine tune everything, find an amazing producer and amazing songwriters and just sit down and make something that I can call my own. V

...it is just an amazing thing to be a transgender character that is representative on primetime TV because you don’t get to see it too often. 28

March 2014

More than unique Best physical feature: Probably my legs. My legs are amazing… I don’t know what it is about them. Just put me in a short skirt and a pair of heels. I really just love my legs so much. They’re the real moneymakers.

Favorite Vocal Influences: I love Patti LaBelle… I love Beyoncé — with Beyoncé, you can’t go wrong. There are so many Sylvester James, Aretha Franklin… Those are the people I grew up with throughout my entire life because my mother loved listening to them.

Favorite thing to do besides singing and acting: I shop. I’m a shopaholic. I shop no matter what. It could be raining outside and I would still try to go to an outdoor mall. I’m huge on cooking and baking and being like a homemaker. I love making people feel right at home all the time.

Your personality in a few words: I think I’m just one word. I’m a huge diva. I’m always doing something, I’m always busy. I’m a diva in a positive sense — like Patti LaBelle refused to call herself a diva because in her own words, “there are too many little heifers that can’t sing and call themselves a diva.” What is one thing you would not walk out of the house without? My cellphone. I’m just too busy to leave without my cellphone. I’m always sending e-mails, I’m always sending text messages. Maybe it’s because I live 3,000 miles away from my family, I always have to stay connected with them and I have to stay connected with everything going on over here at the same time. I also never leave without my hand sanitizer because you shake so many hands and it’s germ and flu season now, more so than it used to be. thevitalVOICE.com

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30 Untitled - Page: 1

March 2014

2014-01-30 13:19:44 +0000

A New

Voice

for Missouri Equality

Kyle Piccola PROMO Kansas City WRitten by Hanna Photography by thevitalVOICE.com

Botney Jonathan Barbe 31

s ’ t e e r c u a s c e h t n e i S Who gets the last bite? Oops, too late. That’s what happens when this level of culinary wizardry is right in your own backyard. From Palermo to Puerto Rico, the globe is well represented, as is our homegrown comfort food, from flash-fried spinach to fried green tomatoes. Find out why The Advocate called us “…the LGBT beacon of the Midwest.” Check out our impressive packages at explorestlouis.com/LGBT

March 2014

community to help get these things passed so everyone can enjoy these protections,” Piccola explains. ”One day, we can enjoy all the benefits that other people do.” There are several things that PROMO and Piccola are working towards this year. The Missouri Non-Discrimination Act is their main focus. It could possibly be one of the best years to get it passed. The bill would include protections for sexual orientation and gender identity in order to prevent discrimination in housing, employment, and public accommodations.

Missouri’s fight for equality has a fresh new face on the scene. PROMO has extended its reach into Kansas City and the surrounding area. To do so, they have welcomed Kyle Piccola to their team. Piccola moved to Kansas City from Colorado where he was the Community Outreach Director for the Senate Democrat Majority Caucus. He has a similar mission in his role as the Senior Field Organizer at PROMO: to get people engaged. Piccola is extremely passionate about LGBT equality efforts, so it is only fitting that he has made it his personal and professional mission. He works for a better future for his LGBT brothers and sisters and, in turn, for himself and his partner. Piccola is most passionate about marriage equality and workplace protections, which line up perfectly with PROMO’s main focuses in 2014. As Senior Field Organizer, it is Piccola’s job to make people aware of PROMO’s efforts and get people to support those efforts in whatever ways necessary. On a day-to-day basis, he is reaching out to individuals as well as local organizations. He seeks to collaborate with these organizations in order to work towards a common goal. “It is important that I make sure that the community knows the state of relationship recognition, workplace protections, etc. and also inform them of the ways that Kansas City can be a movement for the bigger picture of a equality when we are looking at Missouri as a whole,” Piccola says. The key to his success is for people to understand that every voice matters when we are fighting for equality. This is especially true because Kansas City LGBT residents enjoy a lot more protections than some of the surrounding areas. “We have a big responsibility as a

Another focus is school safety. It is important that every school district have an inclusive and substantial anti-bullying policy in place. Healthcare is a big issue right now for the LGBT community for multiple reasons. LGBT individuals don’t have access to healthcare as much as straight allies do and there are some unique factors that play into that. It can be difficult to find an affordable healthcare provider that people feel comfortable coming out to and that understands the needs of an LGBT individual. This can be even more difficult for the trans* community, as they need a provider who can care for their own needs. Looking ahead in 2014, PROMO and Piccola are also starting to look at the possibility for marriage equality in Missouri. While he wasn’t sure about an exact timeframe for Missouri marriage equality, Piccola is optimistic. “Marriage equality takes a lot of support,” he explains. “A lot of that support is going to have to come from Kansas City and St. Louis, as well as middle and southern Missouri. I would say in the next two or three years it is definitely a possibility. We have neighboring states that have marriage equality, so you never know what could happen.” Piccola’s main mission is to reignite the spark around LGBT equality. “If I can get together a community of LGBT activists that are reignited and excited and motivated to start talking about LGBT equality again in Kansas City, then I think my goal this year would be accomplished,” he says.Piccola has a huge job in his PROMO office. While he is based in Kansas City, he also commutes and reaches out to neighboring areas. But if there is anyone who can accomplish these goals, it has to be Kyle Piccola. He is an extremely intelligent, passionate, and charming guy who will make anyone he talks to feel right at home. We have no doubt he will be able to reach out to people and get them excited about all of the things we can do here in Missouri. It will be exciting to see all that PROMO and Piccola accomplish during 2014. V

More On

piccola What’s your partner’s name? Tim Medler

How long have you been together? 4 years! Our anniversary is New Years Day!

How did you meet? That’s another story in and of itself but essentially we met dancing.

What’s your favorite date spot in Kansas City? Our couch

What’s your favorite restaurant in Kansas City? Although there are many, my new favorite is Regazza in Westport.

Do you have any pets? We just got our first baby! She is an Irish terrier and her name is Brooklyn!

What is your favorite vacation spot? Vancouver, BC

thevitalVOICE.com

Arkansas, 34

March 2014

Two Years to Untie the Knot of Equality Bans  Written by Denny Patterson illustration by Jorge El-Azar

Numerous states are held to conservative standards, but views and opinions are steadily changing. Last year was a big year when it came to marriage equality because the Supreme Court struck down the Defense of Marriage Act and seven additional states legalized same-sex marriage. Although 2013 was an excellent year for LGBT rights, many are still wondering if our neighbors to the south will jump on the marriage equality bandwagon anytime soon. We’ll find out in 2016, because Arkansas voters will receive the chance to rescind their state’s constitutional ban on same-sex marriage. All eyes will soon be on The Natural State. Arkansas Attorney General Dustin McDaniel announced in November that he approved the language for the 2016 ballot initiative that will ask state voters to strike down the constitutional amendment banning marriage equality, in addition to replacing the antigay language with a recognition declaring marriage as a union between two people regardless of sex. The initiative would also make it illegal for

county clerks to deny same-sex couples marriage licenses. The Arkansas Initative for Marriage Equality, an LGBT advocacy group that is solely pursuing the legalization of samesex marriage, submitted the proposal for this ballot. The group is working on collecting 78,133 signatures from registered voters to qualify for the ballot. Same-sex marriage might not currently be a hot button issue within Arkansas, but Matt DeCample, spokesman for Governor Mike Beebe, says, “If it makes it onto the ballot, I’m sure it will have the chance to become one.” Arkansas is usually considered to be one of the most conservative states within the union, which sometimes gives it a bad reputation; however, many people are beginning to notice the switch in public opinion. “A high majority of Arkansans passed a constitutional amendment in 2004 to ban gay marriage,” DeCample says. “However, Governor Beebe has noted a changing in views as time progresses, particularly among younger Americans and Arkansans in recent years. We

of Arkansans oppose legalizing same-sex marriage of Arkansans support legalizing same-sex marriage

wouldn’t know just how much of a change there has been until another vote is taken.” In addition, a survey conducted by Greenberg Quinlan Rosner Research and Target Point Consulting in June of last year recorded that 36 percent of Arkansans support marriage equality, while 55 percent oppose. 61 percent of those who support are under the age of 30. The survey also found that 61-63 percent support employment discrimination protections. Beebe will no longer be governor in 2016, but he would not fight the ballot in any way if it passed because he does not challenge votes of the people that otherwise adhere to state and federal laws–even if he is personally opposed to marriage equality. When Arkansas voters passed the 2004 constitutional ban, 75 percent voted yes. This included civil unions and any other status similar to traditional marriage. As of now, the tiny town of Eureka Springs located in Carroll County is the only incorporated place in Arkansas to endorse same-sex marriage by a city council vote. The town began to allow domestic partnerships in 2007, along with healthcare coverage for domestic partners of city workers in 2011. No doubt, Arkansas has a way to go. The state does not acknowledge discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity and there are no LGBT hate crime laws. Hopefully, the passing of this ballot will be a wakeup call for our neighbors to the south. The LGBT community will not stop until all 50 states fully recognize LGBT rights. V thevitalVOICE.com

megan mullaly From Karen Walker to Castroâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hottest Cabaret Star Written by

Corey Stulce

here’s a magnetic pull that thrusts comic actress, chanteuse and all-around bawdy gal, Megan Mullally, and us gays together.

While on tour with Nancy and Beth, her new cabaret-ready singing duo with actress Stephanie Hunt, Mullally was recently drawn to one of the gayest ’hoods in one of the gayest cities, The Castro in San Francisco. She shared the story with me: “When we came to Feinstein’s, we weren’t sold out. The show started on Thursday, and we landed Wednesday night around 10. I said, ‘Stephanie, let’s go steal some fliers from the lobby and go down to The Castro.’ We went out to the bars around 11:30 at night and created quite a stir, if I say so myself,” Mullally begins. Soon, the two were in the deejay booth slapping a tambourine and drumming up business for their live act. “We sang. It was quite something. Stephanie befriended this really nice guy who was showing us around. Stephanie wanted to smoke some pot. This guy was like, ‘Perfect. My apartment is right here.’ He literally gestured above the bar that we just walked out of at 2:30 in the morning. So we went up to this total stranger’s apartment, but he was a very nice guy,” Mullally continues. “He whipped out a ceramic bong in the shape of the penis. I have not smoked a bong since high school. I kind of forgot; bongs are not fucking around. I took a hit off this bong, and after about 30 seconds I was like, ‘Stephanie, we have to go. I don’t even know if I’m a person anymore, I am so high.’ Stephanie was like, ‘I’m fine.’ I said, ‘You literally have to get me in the bed and make sure I call Nick,’ and she did. It was crazy. It was really fun. That part wasn’t fun because I was terrified. I didn’t know if I was going to be able to make it down the stairs and get into the car.”

to expect with Mullally’s latest musical adventure. She and Hunt bonded while making indie film, “Somebody Up There Likes Me.” There was an instant simpatico, and soon they were harmonizing in Megan’s car. Nancy and Beth also discovered a mutual love of a variety of musical genres. During a live show, they can bounce from R&B legend Louis Jordan’s “Jack, You’re Dead” to RUN-D.M.C’s “My Adidas” to hardcore rap tune “Smell Yo’ Dick” by Riskay (The latter sometimes sees a cameo from Mullally’s husband, Nick Offerman of Parks and Recreation). “I think what’s interesting about the band is the age difference. We’re 30 years apart. I’m the younger one,” Mullally says with a laugh. “When you watch the show, I don’t think you can quite figure it out. It lends an element of mystery.” They also recently recorded a cover of rapper Gucci Mane’s song “I Don’t Love Her” for the Nancy and Beth debut album, which is due later this year. “We like to change a lot. We feel out whatever’s inspiring us at the time. It’s evolved into a lot more dancing,” Hunt said. “Somebody said, it seems like during the show, we’re fucking with the audience a little bit, but at the same time we’re genuinely trying to be entertaining. I think that’s great if people feel that way,” Mullally says. You can visit NancyAndBeth.com and let the duo know you’d like to see the antics they could bring to St. Louis. After all, The Lou was just voted the sixth-gayest city in America by The Advocate, and San Francisco is only #11! V

That story may give you an idea of what thevitalVOICE.com

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March 2014

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Which is Gayer? Written by Penelope Wigstock Illustration by Andrea Piamonte

Mardi gras

versus

St. Patrick’s Day

You may have glanced at this title, rolled your eyes, and replied, “Duh!” Of course Mardi Gras is gayer… Next to Halloween–aka Gay Xmas–it’s the queerest holiday ever.” Although I am inclined to agree, I nonetheless did a bit of research and found some interesting facts:

fat and fucked up Tuesday Mardi Gras, French for “liquor pig,” has its roots in a group of sex-crazed French whores who, unable to control their libidos, began drinking to excess and taking off their clothes in an attempt to feel liberated. This occurred in 1699, so tacky plastic beads hadn’t yet been invented. Instead, these pioneering revelers showed their tits and penises for Shrimp Po’ Boy sandwiches and beignets. The St. Louis connection to Mardi Gras, while not as strong as New Orleans’, is nonetheless quite impressive. According to Wikipedia (uppity but reliable): “The St. Louis Mardi Gras was started in the early 1980s by bored, drunk patrons of Hilary’s bar in the Soulard neighborhood to downtown, when they decided to march to another neighboring bar]. Over the years, what started as a private party has grown in size and scale, attracted major corporate sponsorship] and is a huge part of the tourism economy of St. Louis…” Like a Hollywood sequel, things have gotten bigger, louder, and more expensive–also, public urination is now on par with an Olympic sport. The LGBT community is a significant presence at Mardi Gras, whereas we are not as much with Saint Patrick’s Day festivities. The costumes, masks, excessive drinking and fornication attract swarms of gay men and (to a lesser degree) lesbians like moths to the proverbial flame.

the booze of the irish Saint Patrick’s Day is named after the actor Patrick Swayze of “Ghost” and “Dirty Dancing” fame. He also played a drag queen in the awful “To Wong Foo with Love, Julie Newmar.” As we all know, he was pretty buff and enjoyed taking his shirt off onscreen as often as possible. Further digging reveals that the phrase “Saint Patrick’s Day” is actually code for “let’s drink some green beer until we vomit and then have lame sex.” No, these facts didn’t come from an academic database or even Wikipedia. I don’t trust uppity sources like that. My information came from my Uncle Sean, a sexy Irishman who immigrated to the States in 1989 to “score as much American ass” as he possibly could. He’s an alcoholic, but I trust him; he’s good people. Saint Patrick’s Day has never really resonated with the LGBT community for several reasons: where the Mardi Gras parade always happens on a Saturday, many local SPD parades occur on the actual holiday, and many times that can be a weekday. You ever tried cat-wrangling a group of queens on a Tuesday before 3 PM? Good luck. Then there’s the institutionalized bigotry. The official Saint Patty’s Day Parade in New York City has a long-standing ban on marchers who identify as gay. Buh-bye, Felicia! This brings us back to Mardi Gras. As Karen Walker once said, this event is “gayer than a clutch purse on Tony night.”

Enjoy this year’s festivities in Soulard. And if you miss out for whatever reason, you can always troll around the Dogtown Saint Patrick’s Day Parade… There’s always at least one (dozen) “curious” frat boys stumbling around who might show you a good time. And those green beer stains on your clothes and bed sheets? It’s just food coloring, sweetie — you can SHOUT it out. V thevitalVOICE.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

S AI N T LOU I S S CI E N CE CE N T E R

We specialize in making science fun! Investigate and explore over 700 interactive exhibits and take in a film on one of the world’s largest domed screens in our OMNIMAX® Theater. Come, play and exercise your brain! General admission is always free.

slsc.org/dinosvv1

March 2014

SPECI AL EXHI BI TI ON OPE NS MARCH 17

Column Written & Photographed by Mikey

Berner

Prep Time 15 mins Cooking time 18 mins 4-6 Servings

Crab cakes 1 lb of Lump Crab Meat ½ cup Lemon Flavored Bread Crumbs 3 green onions (finely chopped) ½ cup finely chopped red bell pepper ¼ cup mayonnaise 1 egg ½ lemon juice 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce 1 tsp dry mustard 1 garlic clove finely minced 1 tsp Old Bay Seasoning 2 dashes of cayenne pepper Oil to coat bottom of pan

directions

1. In large bowl mix, green onion,

red pepper, mayo, egg, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, dry mustard, Old Bay seasoning, garlic clove and cayenne pepper. Then add crab meat, stirring gently as not to break up lumps. 2. Next heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. When oil is hot, carefully place crab cakes, in batches, in pan and fry until browned, about 4 minutes. Carefully flip crab cakes and fry on other side until golden brown, about 4 minutes. Serve warm with Sirracha aioli sauce.

Sirracha Aioli Dipping Sauce 3 garlic cloves, finely minced 1 large egg 1 Tbsp lemon juice 1 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley ½ tsp salt 2 turns ground black pepper ½ cup olive oil 1 tbsp Sirracha Sauce Directions

1. Combine the garlic, egg, lemon

juice, parsley, salt and pepper in a food processor or blender and puree. 2. Add the oil in a slow stream and continue to process until the mixture has formed a thick emulsion. Once thickend process in one tablespoon of Sirracha until fully incorporated.

Tasty

Crab

Cakes

thevitalVOICE.com

march

STLPlaydates spotlight

briefs

at The la perla building

PEARL VODKA PRESENTS 3RD ANNUAL

A FESTIVAL OF SHORT LGBT PLAYS

THAT UPPITY THEATRE COMPANY

3/1

3/22-3/23

www.briefs14.brownpapertickets.com (800) 838-3006 Pearl Vodka, along with That Uppity Theatre Company and Vital VOICE Magazine present the third annual BRIEFS: A Festival of Short LGBTQ Plays. The event is a collection of LGBTQ-centric plays covering everything from domestic violence, a relationship between a conservative and a liberal, and a Victorian version of Grindr! Showtimes are 8 p.m. Friday, March 21; 4 and 8 p.m. Saturday, March 22; and 4 p.m. Sunday, March 23 at the La Perla building.

Tickets are on sale now. $15 in advance, $20 at the door.

mardi gras bud light grand parade in historic soulard www.stlmardigras.org (314) 771-5110

The signature event of St. Louisâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Mardi Gras calendar. Parade steps off at 11 a.m. from just south of Busch Stadium and winds its way down to the Anheuser-Busch Brewery in Soulard. The 1.5 mile parade route hosts hundreds of thousands of revelers all screaming for beads and other throws as the colorful floats make their way along the route. Afterwards the crowds celebrate with a fun-filled street-party that features live music on two Bud Light stages, cold beverages, and hot food all available throughout the Soulard neighborhood at the various restaurants and booths.

3/1Â 6/30

omnimax film: titans of the ice age at st. louis science center www.slsc.org (314) 289-4424

The film transports viewers to the frozen landscapes of the northern hemisphere 10,000 years before modern civilization and brings this harsh and beautiful era to life - a world populated by saber-toothed cats, giant sloths, dire wolves and the iconic woolly mammoths.

March 2014

Playdates STL

3/17

Dogtown st. patrick’s day parade in dogtown www.sthibernians.com Starts at 12:30 p.m.

Marching bands, floats, family clans and more. The parade starts at Tamm and Oakland Avenue and ends at Tamm & Manchester. Each year, this parade draws thousands of attendants. St. Patrick’s Day is a big event in St. Louis, and what better place to celebrate than right in the middle of the action? The streets are always packed, and the festivities go all day. You don’t want to miss it!

3/18 3/30

We Will rock you at fabulous fox theatre www.fabulousfox.com (314) 534-1111

From London’s West End, the worldwide smash hit musical by Queen and Ben Elton features the greatest hits of the legendary British rock group, Queen. This hilarious, multi-award-winning and record-breaking phenomenon boasts a fantastic score of killer Queen tunes such as “Another One Bites The Dust,” “Crazy Little Thing Called Love,” “We Are The Champions,” “Bohemian Rhapsody” and “We Will Rock You.” Performance times are Tuesday – Saturday at 8 p.m.; Saturday at 2 p.m.; Thursday & Sunday at 1 p.m.; Sunday, March 23 at 6:30 p.m.

3/203/22

The Second City: Happily Ever After at touhill performing arts www.touhill.org (866) 516-4949

Drawing on classic material from The Second City archives as well as scenes ripped from the morning headlines, The Second City’s Happily Ever Laughter is your chance to see comedy stars in the making in an evening of smart, cutting edge comedy. For mature audiences.

3/31

International Transgender day of visibility www.transgenderdayofvisibility.org

International Transgender Day of Visibility is an annual holiday occurring on March 31 dedicated to celebrating transgender people and raising awareness of discrimination faced by transgender people worldwide. The holiday was founded by Rachel Crandall in 2009 as a reaction to the lack of LGBT holidays celebrating transgender people, citing the frustration that the only well-known transgendercentered holiday was the Transgender Day of Remembrance which mourned the loss of transgender people to hate crimes, but did not acknowledge and celebrate living members of the transgender community. thevitalVOICE.com

march

KC Playdates 3/29

spotlight i am harvey milk

by heartland men’s chorus at the folly theatre www.follytheater.org (816) 474-4444 “You gotta give ‘em hope,” said a voice that would too soon be quieted by an assassin’s bullet. Gateway Men’s Chorus from St. Louis joins Heartland Men’s Chorus in this gripping concert celebrating the man, the hero and the lasting power his words and actions would have on all of us. Show starts at 8 p.m.

3/1 3/2

Dracula at the kauffman center for performing arts www.tickets.kauffmancenter.org (816) 994-7222

Fascinating, terrifying and romantic perfectly describe the marvel that is Michael Pink’s internationally acclaimed Dracula. The spellbinding story of the nocturnal Count who survives on the blood of the living is a tale of seduction and surrender, sensuality and danger. From the gripping original score’s beating heart effects, to the howls of wolves, to the thrilling sets and dazzling costumes, Dracula is a bravura work of dance theater. During the performance the Kansas City Symphony will perform Philip Feeney’s score. Due to the intrinsic adult themes that the story of Dracula addresses it is advised that parents of younger children exercise parental discretion.

3/5 3/30

other desert cities at the unicorn theatre www.unicorntheatre.org (816)531-PLAY

Featuring Cinnamon Schultz, Merle Moores, Jim Korinke, Jane Rogge and Jake Walker. Secrets are currency that makes everyone rich in this family confrontation that takes place in Palm Springs during a holiday reunion. And you thought your family had drama! Tony Nominee for Best Play and Pulitzer Prize Finalist.

March 2014

Playdates KC

3/14 4/5

vanya and sonia and masha and spike at the spencer theatre www.kcrep.org (816) 235-2700

Winner of two Tony awards including the 2013 Award for Best Play, Broadway’s smash-hit Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike is a wacky comedy the New York Times calls “Deliriously funny! Comic acting raised to the level of high art!” Vanya and his sister Sonia live the quiet life at the farmhouse where they grew up. But their sister Masha escaped many years ago to become a famous movie star. When Masha returns unannounced with her twenty-something boyfriend Spike, so begins an unforgettable weekend of rivalry, regret and hilarious racket. By the end of their impromptu family reunion, this lovable bunch won’t ever be the same! With a nod to Chekhov, Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike is an irresistible comedy appropriate for ages 11 and up!

3/14 3/16

7th annual real deal tattoo convention at the uptown theatre www.kcrealdeal.com (785) 749-7475 ext. 109

Kansas City’s premier Tattoo Convention! If you haven’t been lucky enough to go, make this year the year! The Real Deal Tattoo Convention was started to showcase the best in Kansas City Tattoo artistry, as well as special guest artists from around the country.

3/18

polar obsession at the kauffman center for performing arts www.tickets.kauffmancenter.org (816) 994-7222

As a photojournalist working in some of the world’s most remote and extreme environments, Paul Nicklen faces incredible hardships and personal danger in pursuit of intimate and powerful images of iconic wildlife. A youth spent on Canada’s Baffin Island, where he grew up among the Inuit, taught Nicklen an intense love of nature, an understanding of harsh, icy ecosystems, and the survival skills essential to his work. Nicklen’s book Polar Obsession, a retrospective of his photo from the Arctic and Antarctic, won critical accolades. His images capture the imagination of the public and the respect of his peers, garnering numerous honors, including four BBC Wildlife Photographer of the Year awards in two years.

3/31

International Transgender day of visibility www.transgenderdayofvisibility.org

Scene in

St. Louis Photography by Mikey

Berner

Rehab Bar & Grill

March 2014

1. Angela Jordan & Erik Doyle at Rehab Bar & Grill 2. Reuben Bonalas & Androo Owens at Just John 3. April Glasscock & Cassie Cagle at Attitudes 4. Rehab at The Bartenderâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Review at Just John

Scene in the STL 5. Dee Richard & Makaya Leighton at Hamburger Mary’s 6. Rodger Vielweber & Charlie Buttons at Attitudes 7. Chajuana Penny Washington & Sylounda Brown at Rehab Bar & Grill 8.Steve Davis & Michelle at Hamburger Mary’s 9. Raja Gemini at The Pulitzer Foundation for the Arts 10. Tino Zamacona & Wesley Nguyen at Just John

Hamburger Mary’s

10.

Just John thevitalVOICE.com

Scene in

Kansas

City

Photography by Mikey

Berner

2. 3. 1.

March 2014

Scene in the KC

Vital VOICE marked it’s debut in Kansas City with a bang at Bistro 303. Hosted by Shelly Ray of Bad Girl’s Club, guests danced to the hottest music by DJ Remix and enjoyed cocktails by Pearl Vodka and Barefoot Wine.

6. 7.

10.

March 2014

INDULGE ALL OF YOUR SENSES

$35 Four-Course Dinner Special

lumiereplace.com cielostlouis.com Not valid for persons on Missouri Disassociated Persons or Excluded lists or who have been otherwise excluded from LumiĂ¨re Place Casino or any other properties owned by Pinnacle Entertainment. Must be age 21 or older to gamble. Gambling problem? Call 1-888-BETSOFF. ÂŠ2014 Pinnacle Entertainment, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

PEARL VODKA PRESENTS 3RD ANNUAL

A FESTIVAL OF SHORT LGBTQ PLAYS

LA PERLA: 312 NORTH 8TH STREET MARCH 20-23, 2014

Get your tickets TODAY at: briefs14.brownpapertickets.com That Uppity Theatre Company