January 2012 - MetroEast NEWS Digital Directory by Daniel McCree Foundation

Volume 5 Issue 3

January 2012

Presented By: BellevillePride.Org & MetroEast News

ABOUT US MetroEast News is an outreach project of the Daniel McCree Foundation.

Our vision and mission is to provide timely information and events to the entire Southern Illinois Region. We seek to be a voice for those who are traditionally not heard. (READ MORE) Southern Illinois Pride History (READ MORE)

Editor: Colby Kluthe Graphic Design: Jason Brooks Director: Daniel McCree Foundation

Contributors: Mickey Johnson (Carbondale) History & Southern Illinois News Tess Farnham (Belleville) Liberal Arts & Education Susan Spit-Fire Lively (Belleville)

Performing Arts & Spoken Word Aaron Phillip Ruiz (Swansea) At Large: Autumn Pickard (St. Louis)

Common Resources: PFLAG- Belleville IL Chapter St. Louis Gay History Project TransHaven & Belleville Transgender & Friends LGBT Center of St. Louis Metro East Pride of Soutwestern Illinois (MEPSI) Southern Illinois GSA Alliance Equality Illinois & Carbonale Pride, MCC Paducah & Paducah Pride Jennifer Shaw P.C.

DIRECTORY INDEX INTRODUCTION

SPONSORS

NIGHTLIFE

FEATURED EVENTS

SUPPORT ORGANIZATIONS

LOCAL BUSINESS Features

SOCIALIZE! (Social Media Fan Pages & Interests) FEATURED ARTICLES

Browse the 2011 issues

INTRODUCTION The 2012 Digital Directory seeks to provide information and resources for those in our community who may not be aware of the vast array of entertainment venues and social services specific to the LGBTQIA community. I hope you will find this directory an environmentally-conscience way to share resources as well as a useful reference for each of you. The Saint Louis Region celebrated another fantastic Pride Season in 2011 with near perfect weather and a spirit of diversity. This year marked a new page in the history of Southern Illinois with Carbondale celebrating its very first Pride Festival. And both Belleville and Saint Louis continued its traditions of equality for all people. As the editor of MetroEast NEWS, and the director of the DANIEL MCCREE FOUNDATION our vision has been to bring greater awareness to events and news specific to the Metro-East Communities. We are in fact blessed to have so many great organizations and establishments that create a vibrant and exciting opportunity for anyone who call the gateway city home. MetroEast NEWS is operated as a part of the Daniel McCree Foundation, as a living legacy of an artist from Southern Illinois. “We seek to be a voice for those who traditionally are not heard.” The Daniel McCree Foundation advocates for Suicide Prevention as well as outreach in the areas of HIV/AIDS awareness. As we look forward to the coming year, we have decided to move to “THE ORG” and will continue our work at www.bellevillepride.org Our grassroots-based community is in fact organic and requires the collaboration of many people to share with you events and news you may not find anywhere else. We shall continue to utilize this and other platforms to further the causes of social justice and equality. Sincerely,

Colby Kluthe

Join us in BELLEVILLE 5th Annual MEPSI FESTIVAL June 16th 2012 Metro east pride of southwestern Illinois

2ND ANNUAL CARBONDALE PRIDE JUNE 8th – 10th

2012 DIRECTORY SPONSORS “BUY LOCAL OR BYE LOCAL”

J.Brooks Digital “The Premier Graphics in the Metro East Region”

www.SmartChoiceSTL.com “Smart Solutions for Web Development”

Bethel United Church of Christ (Cahokia, IL) 2200 Camp Jackson Road, Cahokia, Illinois 62206 (Just off Interstate 255,Cahokia Exit 13) Sunday Morning Worship at 10:00 am.

Pastor: Rev. Carol Shanks (618) 939-4835 www.CahokiaUCC.org

Practical Solutions For All Aspects of Family Law 201 Hillsboro Avenue | Suite A | Edwardsville | Illinois | 62025

618.655.0555 | Fax 618.655.9460

www.JaShawLaw.com ONE SAINT LOUIS www.OneSaintLouis.org (314) 241-1114 info@onesaintlouis.org

PFLAGBelleville www.bellevilleilpflag.com Meets the first Thursday Of the month 6:30PM FIND THEM ON FACEBOOK

Shannon’s Tie Dye Save a Hippie—Wear Tie Dye

TessiLu Studio - Commision Artist & Writer

www.shannons-tie-dye.com SEVEN RESTAURANT AN LOUNGE

TransHaven www.transhaven.org

TransHaven serves the advocacy needs of the Transgender Communities of Missouri and St. Louis Region. www.TransHaven.org Become a sponsor or add your upcoming event

“A bold Hot-spot Where Everyone is Welcome. “ 7 South High Street Belleville, Illinois 62220

www.sevenrestaurantandlounge.com Free-flow Poetry & Live Music Venue

SAGE Metro St. Louis www.SmartChoiceSTL.com

SAGE of Metro St. Louis, provides services and advocacy to LGBT older adults. They are located in the Tower Grove Manor Building on South Grand.

www.SageMetroSTL.org

MetroEast NEWS is an outreach project of the Daniel McCree Foundation. www.DanielMcCree.Org

Our vision and mission is to provide timely information and events to the entire Southern Illinois Region. We seek to be a voice for those who are traditionally not heard. 'Work It' Screening and Community Discussion Tuesday, January 3, 2012 at 6:00pm at The New Lgbt Center Of St Louis TransHaven invites the LGBTQ Community of the St Louis region to view the debut of the controversial ABC series 'Work It' and follow the screening with a open discussion on how this series is perceived as disrespectful and marginalizing to the Trans Community, Women and other minorities.

A Celebration Benefit of the MGM Legacy! Monday, January 9, 2012 at 9:00pm A CELEBRATION of the Miss Gay Missouri, America LEGACY to benefit the MGM Alumni Association to put on the 39th Annual MGM Pageant April 26 28, 2012 at SoCo Club in Columbia, Mo. The evening will celebrate MGM 2011 Madison Elise and will be hosted by MGM 2007 Jade Sinclair - with former MGMs, including Vicki Vincent (1983), Dieta Pepsi (1991), Vicki Valentino (1995), and Krista Versace (1997). We will be adding more formers as they officially confirm! The evening kicks off at 9 p.m. sharp at Soulard Bastille (1027 Russell) in St. Louis, MO.

Gateway Men’s Chorus Seeks Talent for 25th Season The Gateway Men’s Chorus invites you to “Be Our Guest”. GMC is seeking new and former singers for our next two concerts of the 25th season! The event is structured to give an overview of the GMC and what you can expect in for the remaining season. Join us for cocktails, complimentary appetizers and socialization. If you know someone who sings, reach out to them and extend this invitation! We are looking forward to seeing you! This event is free of charge. 7pm – Cocktails, complimentary appetizers and Registration 8pm – Presentation and remarks on the "One Song" and "ExtrABBAganza" concerts.

January 7th 7pm at Spaghetteria Mamma Mia. 904 S. Vandeventer (ST. LOUIS)

Miss Gay Heart of Illinois USofA 2012 January 27th Rochelle D'leight and Kirk Ladd presents: Miss Gay Heart of Illinois USofA 2012 pageant. The Bold and the Beautiful, stunning in Black and White. Honoring: Isyss Belle D'Leight, Miss Gay Heart of Illinois 2009! Lots of special guests including "Miss Gay Illinois 2011" Veronica Belle Headley!! Event hosted By the legendary Blanche Dubois and the beautiful Rochelle D'leight. Doors open at 9pm. 19 to enter and 21 to drink. If you are interested in competing for the Title of "Miss Gay Heart of Illinois 2012" please contact Rochelle D'Leight or Kirk Ladd by phone or via facebook for pageant contract information. 1st Alternate: $75 upon arrival for Miss Gay Illinois 2012. Miss Gay Illinois 2012, Hosted by Club Traz.

MetroEast NEWS Digital Directory (2012)

www.EqualityIllinois.Org

www.LGBTCounselingSTL.com

www.SageMetroSTL.org

“BUY LOCAL OR BYE LOCAL” St. Louis Gender Foundation www.stlouisgenderfoundation.org 314-607-4163 info@stlgf.org

LGBT Counseling STL Cindy Betz-MSW,LCSW 314-602-5534 3672A Arsenal Street St. Louis, MO 63116 cbetzlcsw@yahoo.com

BOXERS N’ BRIEFS 55 FOUR CORNERS LANE CENTREVILLE

Independence Place - Cape Girardeau,mo 5 S Henderson St· Cape Girardeau· (573) 334-2939 12

Bethel Ucc church 618-939-4835

www.cahokiaucc.org Rev. Carol Shanks

Worship Services - Sunday 10 am We are one of two official Open and Affirming Congregations of the United Church of Christ in southern Illinois. Join us for worship. Join our choir. Contact us for your civil union ceremony.

NIGHTLIFE IN SOUTHERN ILLINOIS BUBBY & SISSY's (ALTON) www.bubbyandsissys.com 602 Belle St., Alton; Tel. 618.465.4775

Spirits Bar and Lounge (Alton) 300 State Street, Alton 618-463-5555 Website http://www.templeentertainmentinc.com.

Club Escapade

(BELLEVILLE) www.clubescapade.org 133 W. Main 62220

The Pageant Capital of Southern Illinois

& Home of CARBONDALE PRIDE

Club TRAZ (Carbondale) http://www.clubtraz.com

REGIONWIDE NIGHTCLUBS & VENUES

Atomic Cowboy - 4140 Manchester

Belleville, IL 62220

Ave., St. Louis, MO 63110

The Pink Squirrel – 519 Good Hope Attitudes - 4100 Manchester Ave.,

St. Cape Girardeau, MO 63703

St. Louis, MO 63110

Erney's 32 - 4200 Manchester Ave., Spirit’s Bar & Lounge – 300 State

St. Louis, MO 63110

Street (Alton)

Grey Fox - 3503 S. Spring, St. Louis, Bad Dog Bar & Grill - 3960

MO 63116

Choteau Ave., St. Louis, MO 63110

Hummel's on Broadway - 7101 S. Bastille Soulard - 1027 Russell

Broadway, St. Louis, MO 63111

Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63104

Hamburger Mary’s 3037 Olive St. Big Moe’s – 1042 Tower Grove , St.

Louis, Mo 63103

Louis, MO 63110

Independence Place - 5 S. Bubby & Sissy's - 602 Belle St., Alton, IL 62002

Boxers N Briefs - 55 Four Corners Lane, Centreville, IL 62206

Clementine's - 2001 Menard St., St. Louis, MO 63104

Henderson St., Cape Girardeau, MO 63703

JJ's Clubhouse - 3858 Market St., St. Louis, MO 63110

Just John's - 4112 Manchester Ave., St. Louis, MO 63110

CHICAGO REGIONAL MAP Rehab Bar & Grill - 4054 Chouteau Ave. Korners - 7109 S. Broadway, St. Louis, MO 63111

Magnolia's Bar - 5 S. Vandeventer, St. Louis, MO

Martha’s Vineyard – 219 W. Olive, Springfield, MO 65802

Meyer’s Grove – 4510 Manchester Ave, St. Louis, MO 63110

Missie B's - 805 W. 39th, Kansas City, MO 64112

Novak's Bar & Grill - 4121 Manchester Ave., St. Louis, MO 63110 Premium Lounge - 4199 Manchester Ave., St. Louis, MO 63110

Club Escapade - 133 W. Main St.,

SEVEN RESTURANT AND LOUNGE 7 S. High Street, Belleville,IL 62220

SKYBAR (Carbondale) SIUC Campus Arena

SoCo Club - 128 E. Nifong Blvd., Columbia, MO 65203

NEWS & EVENT RESOURCES

Vital Voice Magazine Windy City Times MetroEast News-Events The Pride Pages St. Louis CITY EDITION ALIVE MAGAZINE St. Louis Beacon LGBT Missouri St. Louis SINNER magazine

Eddieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bar 2900 Nameoki Road, Granite City, IL 62040

(618) 877-4141

Cigar Inn Jazz Club 119 W Main Street, Suite A Belleville, IL 6222

www.CigarInn.Net

SUPPORT ORGANIZATIONS Equality Federation

618-397-0963 Belleville Transgender & Friends

PFLAG- Belleville Chapter

Gay Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation http://www.glaad.org/

www.bellevilleilpflag.com Meets the first Thursday of the month 6:30PM FIND THEM ON FACEBOOK

PFLAG St. Louis

The Trevor Project 1-866-4-U-TREVOR

TrevorCHAT PROMO (Privacy Rights Organization of Missouri)

SAGE-Metro St. Louis

Bisexual Alliance of Saint Louis (BASL) Gay-Straight Alliance Network http://gsanetwork.org/ Gender Queer Revolution

I CARE CAMPAIGN (St. Louis LOCAL)

http://www.genderqueerrevolution.org/

Metro-East CALL FOR HELP

Community-Wide Resource List

Food * Clothing * Housing *Hotlines & More

The NEW LGBT CENTER of St. Louis 4337 Manchester Ave (ST. LOUIS) Open Wed- Sunday 9am to 9pm

HIV/AIDS SERVICES Southwest Illinois HIV Care Connect Tina Markovich, Regional Project Director (618) 233-7703, ext. 4406 (618) 233-7713 (fax) Email Lead Agency: St. Clair County Health Department #19 Public Square, Suite 150 Belleville, IL 62220-1695

Southern Illinois HIV Care Connect Paula Clark, Regional Project Director (618) 684-3143, ext. 160, or 877-745-1424 toll-free (618) 687-4933 (fax) Email Lead Agency: Jackson County Health Department 415 Health Department Road P.O. Box 307 Murphysboro, IL 62966-6108



Heart of Illinois HIV Care Connect Pam Briggs. Regional Project Director (309) 671-8418 or 800-801-8751 toll-free 800-526-0857 TTY (309) 671-8498 (fax) Email Lead Agency: University of Illinois College of Medicine -- Peoria Heart of Illinois HIV/AIDS Center One Illini Drive Box 1649 Peoria, IL 61656-1649

 Bethany Place www.BethanyPlace.Org Southern Illinois Healthcare Foundation www.sihf.org  Madison County AIDS Program (MADCAP)  Ezekiel project outreach

 Food outreach  Suicide hotline 1-800-273-TALK

YOUTH & FAMILY ORGANIZATIONS Growing American Youth http://growingamericanyouth.org/ Region-Wide Youth Group, Education & Social Support for Youth Project Ark http://projectark.wustl.edu/ Confidential Testing & Prevention of HIV/AIDS The Trevor Project http://thetrevorproject.org/ (NATIONAL CRISIS LINE & YOUTH SUPPORT) The SPOT YOUTH CENTER http://thespot.wustl.edu 4169 Laclede Ave (Central West End) ONE SAINT LOUIS www.OneSaintLouis.org (COLAGE Youth Group) Fall Group forming! (Tower Grove) WELL OF LIVING WATER MINISTRIES http://welloflivingwaterministries.org Faith-support for all ages, Inclusive Christ-Based Community E3 Young Adult Ministry (MCC of Greater St. Louis) E3@mccgsl.org Social & Spiritual Support for ages 18-30 FAMILIES LIKE OURS familieslikeours@gmail.com Social Opportunities for LGBT parents with young children BELLEVILLE WEST HIGH SCHOOL GAY-STRAIGHT ALLIANCE www.bths201.org/west (COMING SOON) Dzink@bths201.org Provides Student advocacy, Safe-Zone & Supportive environment for students of Belleville West High School. Faculty Advisor: Dale Zink SOUTHERN ILLINOIS GSA ALLIANCE Information & News Coordination throughout the Southern Illinois Regionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s GSA Chapters Q&A: Alliance for Gender and Sexual Diversity (SWIC) (Southwestern Illinois College GSA Chapter) (Student Group and Social Support) Belleville Campus

OLDER ADULT RESOURCES (Powered by the SAGE Metro St. Louis Referral Network) www.SageMetroStL.Org

SAGE Metro St. Louis provides service, advocacy and community awareness. It is important that we hear from the LGBT older adult community to identify the needs of the community and develop services that assist in meeting these needs. Our services will continue to evolve with input from the community. Area Agencies on Aging - Services across Missouri Advocacy Day Programs & Senior Centers Housing Employment Services Geriatric Care Management/Counseling Health/Wellness/Caregiver Support

Information and Referral Legal, Financial, and Insurance

Home Health/Personal and Professional Care

LGBT Affirming Religious/Spiritual Communities

Hospice

Resources for Everyone

Contact Sage Metro St. Louis

PRIDE ORGANIZATIONS Metro-East Pride

http://metroeastpride.com/

Mid America(MID-MO) Pride Pride St. Louis

http://www.lgbtcoalition.org/

http://www.pridestl.org/

St. Louis Black Pride

http://slbp.org/

Paducah Pride (Facebook only) Carbondale Pride (Facebook Only) Chicago Pride http://www.chicagopridecalendar.org

NEWS & EVENTS PUBLICATIONS Vital Voice Magazine http://thevitalvoice.com ForwardSTL http://www.ForwardSTL.org The Paducah Moon St. Louis CITY EDITION

MetroEast NEWS St. Louis Beacon

St. Louis SINNER magazine 24

Artistically Speaking! at Belleville’s 7 Restaurant and Lounge By: Susan Spit-Fire Lively – MetroEast NEWS On Wednesday, Jan. 4th please join us for the fourth installment of my new show Artistically Speaking! at Belleville’s lovely 7 Restaurant and Lounge, ( 7 S. High St., Belleville, IL, 62220), located in beautiful downtown Belleville, IL. (618) 277-6700 www.sevenrestaurantandlounge.com The club’s owner, Brian Besse (former owner of Iron Horse Saloon and many other renowned St. Louis venues), completely remodeled this historic 1871 building into a modern and luxurious Creolebistro style restaurant and lounge, complete with a diverse array of enticing food (incl. Italian, French, and American) and beverages (incl. scrumptious Chocolate Martini’s), wide-screen TV’s, and two bars. There is spacious patio seating on the front and side of the building, adding to the welcoming atmosphere. Artistically Speaking! takes place the first Wednesday of every month. There is no cover charge for this event!! The doors open at 8:00 p.m. and the show, which also features an Open Mic, will begin at 9:00. Come and experience the warmth and beauty of the arts with remarkable musicians, poets, comedians, and more in a gallery packed with 

stunning local art, complete with appetizer ($2.00 off all appetizers!) and drink specials. Our Special Guests on Wed., Jan. 4th will be Kristy “Lightning” McKeown, a superb poet, spoken word artist, producer, and model; award-winning spoken word artist, poet, emcee, and vocalist Louis Conphliction; an incredibly distinctive classic swing band that features J. Thomas Crammond, Jim Drennan, and Terry Muskopf called Antique Swing; and innovative poet, author, literary journalist, archivist, and concert & book reviewer Philip Gounis. So come to 7 Restaurant and Lounge on Wednesday, Jan. 4th for another moving and thought-provoking night of fun, friendship, and art at Artistically Speaking! Looking forward to seeing you! Peace and Best Wishes!! L<3ve, Spit-Fire

Seven Resturant & Lounge is a proud Sponsor of the 2012 Digital Directory. Thank You for your support!

Equality Illinois 2012 Gala: Justice for All Equality Illinois 2012 Gala: Justice for All will take place on Saturday, February 11, 2012, starting at 6:00pm. Come see and be seen at one of the most elegant and fun LGBT events of the year. With over 1,000 guests in attendance, including elected officials, candidates, and other VIPs, the Gala is one of the most impactful ways to support full equality for LGBT people. Learn more and purchase your tickets today. www.EQIL.org

Go LOCAL! PFLAG Belleville Chapter Meets Downtown Belleville 1st Thursday of Month @ St. Paul UCC FIND THEM ON FACEBOOK

PFLAG of Belleville Bethel United Church of Christ

Belleville Transgender & Friends Illinois Safe Schools UIS Queer-Straight Alliance SIU-C Office of Diversity & Equity SIU-E On-Campus Resources SWIC - Safe Zone

2012 Miss Spirit of St. Louis Pageant

2012 Miss Spirit of St. Louis Pageant will be on Sunday, January 15th at Attitudes Nightclub. $1,500 prize package for winner and $950 prize package for First Alternate on way to 2012 Miss Gay Missouri, America Pageant. Applications now available. Metro East contestants 25-miles from boarder qualify to compete! Contact Leon Braxton (Dieta Pepsi) or Colin Murphy.

Passages: Sasha Valentino News update posted Dec. 27, 2011 by Kate Sosin, Windy City Times (CHICAGO)

Sasha Valentino, a legendary Chicago-based female impersonation performer, passed away on Dec. 26 after a long battle with dementia. She was 40. Valentino was a nationally-known pageant performer, whose titles were many and whose chosen family was extensive. "Sasha Valentino was an icon and an inspiration to us all in the Trans world," said performer Angelique Munro. Friends and family remember Valentino as a mentor and example to many, who regularly adopted "children" into her ever-growing family and encouraged them in their goals. In her own work, Valentino won numerous honors for her performances. She was crowned Miss Black Universe in 1996, Miss Universe Latina, Miss Sweetheart International and Miss Liberty International. In total, friends estimate that she carried over 40 titles. Miss Masque 2007 Prelim Night 3 (VIDEO) Sasha Valentino Talent (READ MORE) Original Story

GAY-STRAIGHT ALLIANCE CHAPTERS PRIZM at the University of Missouri St. Louis Saint Louis University's Rainbow Alliance

BELLEVILLE WEST HIGH SCHOOL GAYSTRAIGHT ALLIANCE www.bths201.org/west (COMING SOON) Dzink@bths201.org

SOUTHERN ILLINOIS GSA ALLIANCE Information & News Coordination throughout the Southern Illinois Regionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s GSA Chapters Q&A: Alliance for Gender and Sexual Diversity (SWIC) (Southwestern Illinois College GSA Chapter) (Student Group and Social Support) Belleville Campus

Truman State University's Gay/Straight Alliance Washington University Pride Alliance

SIUC GLBT Resource Center Fontbonne University Straights and Gays For Equality (SAGE)

Blackburn College GSA (Common Ground) LGBTQ Resource Center - University Missouri Columbia Maryville University GSA Missouri State University BiGALA

GSA Alliance of Southern Illinois

Local HIGH SCHOOL GSA CHAPTERS Alton High School Alton4200 Humbert Alton, IL Jane Higgins- jhiggins@altonschools.org

ILLINOIS SAFE SCHOOLS ALLIANCE 70 E. Lake St, Suite 900 Chicago, IL 60601 312.368.9070

Belleville West High School

E-Mail

www.bths201.org/west (COMING SOON) Dzink@bths201.org

Bloomington High School Bloomington1202 E. Locust Bloomington, IL 61701 Dawn Duff duff.de@gmail.com

Carbondale Community High School 1301 E Walnut St, Carbondale, IL 62902

Equality Illinois Contingent from PFLAG, ACLU and EQIL visited Senator Kirk's office regarding the Student Non Discrimination Act. We dropped off copies of anti bullying pledges, too!

Collinsville High School 2201 S Morrison Collinsville, IL 62234 Cathy Kulupka ckulupka@kahoks.org Tiffany Shelton tshelton@kahoks.org

O'Fallon Township High School 600 S. Smiley St. O'Fallon, IL 62269 Leann Riebold rubysl1ppers@yahoo.com If you participate in a GSA that is not listed, please register here. If you would like to make changes to your current listing, please contact David Fischer.

Anti Bullying Pledges

Daniel McCree Foundation remembers those in Southern Illinois we have lost too soon.

Saint Louis Gender Foundation Celebrates 25 Years Supporting Our Transgender Community

The St. Louis Gender Foundation is a not-for-profit and non-sexual support and educational resource for gender non-conforming adults. We also welcome Significant Others, caring professionals, and all who support freedom of gender expression. The StLGF is proud of its long tradition as an open organization that does not discriminate. The major goal is to provide a nurturing environment conducive to individual growth and development and for networking among the membership regarding supportive health-care and legal professionals, and businesses in the St. Louis area. Although we have event themes at our regularly scheduled sessions, there is no dress code. Membership Types: Individual: Annual Dues: $30.00 Couples: Annual Dues: $40.00 (Includes only 1 copy of the Gazette)  All membership dues apply for the period of January 1 to December 31



Full annual membership dues are charged upon joining  If you join mid-year, your first renewal will be prorated appropriately  Annual membership dues are due by January 31  Dues cover operating expenses including mailings, printing, bulletins, and advertising All members receive or have access to:  Meetings and Group Outings (Additional fees apply to cover costs)  (6) issues of The Gazette newsletter (available in print and / or electronic)  Use of the library  Access to the changing room NOTE: SCHOLARSHIPS MAY BE AVAILABLE IF FINANCIAL NEED EXISTS. PLEASE CONTACT AN OFFICER FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION AND CONSIDERATION.

Saint Louis Gender Foundation

314-607-4163 info@stlgf.org

The 2012 EQIL Gala is set for Saturday, February 11, 2012 at the Hilton Chicago. Please join us for a spectacular evening! Tickets are available now. For general information about this spectacular event, please click here or on the Gala logo below.

EQIL's cool, stylsh "LOVE" t-shirts are now available in 5 fabulous colors! Click HERE to get yours now! Also, EQIL has partnered with The Vanity Project and they have produced EQIL-themed apparel. You can view their cool designs here.

Winter Season Transgender Community Social (CHICAGO) Come in from the cold and join EQIL for an afternoon of socializing with friends old and new, noshing on delightful bites, and sipping cocktails. This social will take place Saturday, January 21, 2012 from 1:00 to 4:00pm. The elegant Mayne Stage Theater, located at 1328 W. Morse in Chicago...right next to the Morse Red Line stop, is the backdrop for our Winter Season Transgender Community Social. The suggested donation is just $10 and includes light bites, drink specials, and fun giveaways...all in support of EQIL's statewide LGBT-rights work. RSVP to info@eqil.org. We look forward to seeing you there!

Equality Illinois launches Chicago Appointments Project, a campaign to identify well-qualified openly LGBT candidates for positions in the mayoral administration and to advocate for their appointments.

Click HEREto read more and to submit your resume.

Shaw Law is among our returning Sponsors and will be holding a series of workshops in the Metro-East in the coming year-- Providing free education on legal changes in that effect our community. Jennifer Shaw has been advocating for Southern Illinois serving statewide councils and agencies. Committee on Sexual Orientation & Gender Identity -- Secretary 2005, Vice Chair 2006, Chair 2008 Human Rights Section Council -- Secretary 2008, Vice Chair 2009

Saint Louis Gay Men's Social Group The Saint Louis Gay Men's Social Group is a discussion and support group for gay men 22 and older. We provide a friendly and safe place for gay men to gather. We assemble together to discuss various topics related to gay men and to participate in a variety of social activities. Meetings are on Thursday nights from 6:45pm to 8:45pm with a variety of topics affecting gay men in today's world. Potluck, refreshments, movies, social activities, and guest speakers. Ages 22 & up Where: Bevo-Long Middle School 34

5028 Morganford Rd St. Louis 63116 **Park in rear of building, Enter building through door 10go right, then a left in cafeteria Meets every Thursday @ 6:45pm til 8:45pm. See our Calendar Page at http://www.stlsocial.org/calendar/ for additional details. For more information call 314-529-1771 St. Louis Gay Men's Social Group is not affiliated with any religious or AA organization.

ST L Lesbia n So c ia l N et w o r k in g M eet u p

SOCIALIZE! FAN PAGES AND INTERESTS

Daniel McCree Foundation

Likes

Gay Bar 路 Night

Non-Profit

Club

Organization Sips n Splatters

I Support Same

Arts/Entertainmen

Sex Marriage in

Gateway Men's

ILLINOIS

Chorus

Organization

Musician/Band

t/Nightlife

Euclid Records Local Business

I support transgender

Andoetainment Company

Rehab Bar and

I grew up in

inclusion in Illinois

Grill

Belleville,Illinois

Community

Company

and I remember when. Public Places

Just John

TheNigelproject KDHX 88.1 FM

Community

Revlon Robyn

TransHaven

I CARE

Public Figure

Missouri

Organization

Daniel McCree Foundation

SAGE Metro St. Louis

One Saint Louis

Carbondale,

Non-Profit

Community

Illinois

Organization

The LGBT Center of St. Louis Non-Profit

Belleville

Meyer's Grove

Transgender and

Entertainment

Friends Community Vital Voice Media/News/Publis Southern Illinois

hing

Gay-Straight Alliance Community

The Chicago Snob

Organization

Public Figure

Gustine Market

J Brooks Digital

Local Business

Camera/Photo

Well of Living

Shameless

Water Ministries

Grounds, LLC

Church/Religious

Restaurant/Cafe

Organization

TessiluStudio

Smartchoice

Artist

Center E-Course

GlitterBomb

Madison Elise

Productions

Entertainer

University Jason and Lambda Legal 36

deMarco

Collinsville,

SmartChoice

Illinois

Center

Church of the

Sparta High

City

Business Services

Good Shepherd

School School

Southern Illinois

Elastic Bond

Metro-East

Paducah Pride

City

Community

Stray Dog Theatre

Granite City High

Local Business

School

Easy Buffet

Buffet Restaurant

Edwardsville High

Organization Southern Illinois Healthcare

Terry Pierson

School

Foundation

Artist

School

Company Club Escapade Inc Bubby & Sissy's

Bar 路 Barbecue

Local Business

Restaurant

Belleville West High School School

Belleville, Illinois City

The Galleries at Sole Survivor

O'Fallon Township

Local Business

High School School

Fairview Heights,

High School

Illinois City

School

R.I.P. Russell Austin Mueller

Public Figure

First Unitarian

Growing American

Church of Alton

Youth

Illinois

Non-Profit Organization

Belleville East

AVEN- Asexual Visibility and Education

DJ TimmyB

Network

Musician/Band

Education

East Saint Louis Senior High School

Community Shares

Spirits Open Mic Night At The Inn

Equality Illinois

Duvy's Cafe Cafe

Bar and Lounge Restaurant 路 Bar

The Trevor Project

of Illinois

Luvy

The EDGE

Non-Profit

Night Club 路 Dance

Organization

Club 路 Gay Bar

Davis Pastry Shop Bakery

Metropolitan Community Church of Greater Saint Louis

It Gets Better GLO Center Community

Occupy

Organization

Carbondale Rue 13 Night Club 路 Late

Project

Big Moe's

Supaman Benevolent Foundation

Ladies of

Night - Sushi

the Grove

Local Business Like HIV/AIDS Helpline Flirt Arts/Entertainmen t/Nightlife

Gender!Queer !Jaye Education

Jamie Bell Online

Sky bar Carbondale

1(Belleville)MEPSI 2011 Thanksgiving Parade

St Louis Gay Poor Souls Society Artist Factory

Men's Social Group

Tea Room 路 Art

City Diner South POWJr72

Grand

Musician/Band

Gallery 路 Wine Bar MCC Of Paducah

FOUR MUDDY

Church/Religious Organization LGBT Missouri

Missouri Suicide Prevention Project

PAWS Pet Groomer 路 Pet Store

Pflag Belleville IL

TessiluStudio Elastic Bond

Chapter

Missouri Safe St. Louis City "Dear Daniel" (Hello Kitty's Companion)

Edition Local Business

Schools Coalition

Musician/Band (Our Miami Faction)

FEATURED ARTICLES www.BellevillePride.com on Behalf of: Bethany Place

AcSeXories on the Runway- Bethany Place Fashion Show is planned for a third year. December 30, 2011 (BELLEVILLE) Bethany Place is in the planning stages of its 3rd Annual Fashion Show Fundraiser on February 9th at the Four-Points Sheraton in Fairview Heights, IL. In recent years this event has become a collaboration of local college students and businesses participating. from latex condoms. The event also included a silent auction, raffle drawings, and information booths. Among the keynote speakers was Tony Monken, former adviser of Metro East Pride and HIV/AIDS advocate throughout the state of Illinois. Bethany Place is the largest non-profit AIDS Service Organization in the St. Louis Metro East area, providing comprehensive case management and programming focused on promoting wellness and serving all people living with HIV/AIDS.

Bethany Place is the largest non-profit AIDS Service Organization in the St. Louis Metro East area. In a spirit of compassion and justice, Bethany Place provides comprehensive case management and programming focused on promoting wellness and serving all people living with HIV/AIDS. Bethany Place is dedicated to serving our neighbors in eleven counties of the Metro-East who are affected by HIV disease. With an emphasis on wellness, our staff continually strives to provide all clients with the support they need to maintain the highest possible quality of life. .

Also featured, special musical guest Big Boss Blues Band.

www.DanielMcCree.Org Daniel McCree Foundation

"A janitor and a jailbird a judas and a judge. Alchemy can kill you, whats a little smudge? A most impervious inquisition, an affinity for fudge. Marble cake can make you swoon and the boys will have to wait. A junior in the making hinges on your fate...

Aztec. Incan. Mayan. Incongruent counterparts. Congressional acts of post traumatic stress induction. Affiliations with affluent artisans are invitations for acts of attrition. Stars are for shooting; dress for dinner. DNA of DEA. Endowed: A mission in nouns Hyperactive Son of Sam Entwined in cords Harmonious Dischord Apocolyptic Astroturf with lane lines rolling by A swimmers penchance for backstroke flags And baseballs distaste for fags Acute Rimbaus: lofty goals Combined in the By and By sanguin fields of yesterday swept behind the clock time zones cull; the recipe for beefing up the flock calloused clocks and paradox a rauckous combination aleviate the urge: innate to strike the iron hot if your in canterra rest assured canmando is next 567" Daniel McCree Foundation - Collection of Original Writing Daniel McCree Foundation - In the Words of Daniel McCree, our collection tells his story in his own words.

From the Vagina Monologues to Mass Marketing: Healing These Wounds that Hold Us Together By: Tess Farnham- MetroEast NEWS December 14, 2011 Much to the chagrin of a strict and Puritanical Catholic school upbringing, and with no apologies whatsoever to Sister Madeline, the nun who educated my third grade class on the horrors of war, but also ironically taught us to accept the shame that follows “attention-seeking” episodes of histrionic post traumatic distress, here I sit at this desk composing a post on a topic I can’t even say without having to put a hand over my mouth and mumble . And in the interest of helping you understand why I chose to do such a thing, especially with someone like the ghost of Sister Madeline looking so disappovingly over my shoulder, I will first explain that I was never really one to surrender to the conventions of conformity. And by this I don’t mean to say I actually chose the path less traveled. . .instead I am saying that I more or less had noplace else to go. And so consequently, and despite everyone’s best efforts to mold me into someone who looks and behaves like this:

I ended up a person who makes art that looks like this:

And tragically somehow, I suppose you could say I seem to have managed to evolve into this embarrassingly unquiet person who writes and makes art about taboos, ones including but not exclusively limited to: mental illness, feminism, sexuality. . . and as I type, the one thought I have spinning upstairs in the lost attic of my brain is,

“Oh, man my priest is gonna kill me in the confessional with a buttload of puragatorial “Hail Mary„s” if he ever finds out.” I felt the same way about my seventh grade journal though. The one I kept under lock and key. And in admitting this, I am not really looking to cast aspersions on any of our formative oppressors; it doesn’t help anyway. . . just leads to more defensive arguments about how we need to do as we are told and soldier on. Besides, we are people whose ancestors were schooled by the Great Depression, persecution, what have you.

…so if we start pointing a finger of blame, we just end up having to point it at ourselves too, if only for the modicum of conformity we embrace just to keep peace at times. ..to protect ourselves from further pecking and scratching at those open wounds trying to heal themselves. .. At any rate, in light of the knowledge that every role model and scholar in this journey has had something to offer, and out of my own need to honor them for trying to keep us safe from harm, I am just going to embrace that part of my past for what it was, a learning experience. To be fair, I also feel a need to acknowledge that silence and lying was the way of past generations, men and women who had no idea for themselves how to heal from their own awfulest of traumas. And in spite of it all, we manage to find ourselves in an age when the boundaries have been stretched a bit; even so, it’s still there, that little dark cloud that envelops our private parts. And if I had the hours to write a paper on the negative effects of puritanical shame and other abominations committed in the name of religion, and how that shame has ultimately led to the abuse of innocent victims of all ages, shapes, sexual orientation and sexes, I would gladly go there, but to save space I will just try to make do with the time I’ve got. But back to what I was saying before, let me just reiterate and remind myself that sadly and tragically here in America, girls are still implicitly taught to walk a wide path around impure thoughts, unfresh scents or anything else remotely connected to normal and healthy bodily functioning and perception, not to mention overall good health and normal development. It‟s a dirty job, but somebody has to tell us keep our butts out of the gutter, right? Bad things happen down there and maybe if we keep our mouths shut about them, they will just go away.

And what about those cliches that people said to us, the ones that made us so creeped out we slipped on three pairs underwear each day to keep it bottled up inside.

“Knees together please. Nobody needs to see what you have in there.” “Don’t sit like that. People will get the wrong idea.” “Pull your skirt down, for Chrissake. You are adverstising something you do not want to sell.” And to that, you just know we all wanted to scream: “I am eight years old. I have no idea what that means.” It has taken years and years of invasive therapy to even begin to process this stuff for a very large segment of the XX population, but there you go.

And if reading words like “therapy” and “private parts” makes you feel uncomfortable,

But still, I feel the need to point out the advertising and marketing is really quite genius, with slogans saying things like: “soft as the marshmallow womb of a mermaid”

I am sorry for that. Sorry for your discomfort, a discomfort that has become the default for all of us when people bring up sexual violence and/or exploitation taboos. I am sorry for such discomfort, but not sorry for the words. And please know that I am not trying to embarrass anyone. I write for a lot of reasons, but mainly towards the end of a universal healing process, language passed from hand to hand to hand, and nurtured by beloved teachers, one in particular who let me bleed and bleed all over the pages of my fifth grade looseleaf, bringing fists and fists of fresh pages, which I was also asked to read to my classmates. It’s funny how the title embarrasses me still. “Laugh at Me if You Want.” I wrote it the year I also pushed my head through the window glass playing outside. . .my rabbit fur hat bloodied a little and the shard of glass plucked proudly from my forehead, its indent as prelude to parting my hair to the opposite side and barretting it to make sure everyone saw the scab.

It’s been a few years since I saw “The Vagina Monologues,” and I remember being incredibly moved throughout. It inspires me still. Not only for the narratives that were so engaging and validating, but for giving me permission to write and make art that challenges the status quo for exploratory works. This is the place where our stories come from. Here is the light that shines from the center of us, the entranceway through which we all must pass. First I am going to share something to make you laugh perhaps, and that is a little gem found on a friend’s facebook page this morning, the link attached to a site that advertises something called a “vagisoft blanket,” which in theory is something we need to wrap around ourselves anyway although perhaps not commercially. 46

“the cotton fields of heaven” “the **** of a silkworm” And can you imagine the impact of that kind of advertising on the minds of a next generation of independent sexually empowered and safe men, women, transgendered and transexual folks from all over the place? So anyway that was the part of my blog (with thanks to Charles Colyott, sci-fi fiction and horror writer, for posting it on his status today) that was for the sake of making light of a difficult topic. . . and here, dear friends who have stuck with this awkwardest of topics thus far, is the end of this journey, but for many of you, the beginning of another. As a precautionary measure, I must warn you that it’s not my style to set something up so playfully and then switch to a serious topic, but these are the layers of who we are, all shades of the rainbow in healing ourselves. This next passage is called “My Vagina is My Village.” It is a very short film of Eve Ensler performing a piece from her book, “The Vagina Monologues,” and it is not easy to watch, but validating of universal struggle and suffering I promise you. If this doesn’t break your heart and make you wish we could change the shame and insanity that leads to such tragedies, tragedies that also occur outside of wartime, then nothing will. (WATCH VIDEO INSERT)

MetroEast NEWS welcomes Aaron Phillip Ruiz www.BellevillePride.org by: Colby Kluthe -MetroEast NEWS Saturday, December 17, 2011

(BELLEVILLE) MetroEast NEWS is currently undergoing an expansion in preparation for the new year, and will be adding additional writers and potentially photo contributors. This is a necessary step to improve our reach and coverage throughout the Southern Illinois region. We are happy to announce Aaron Phillip Ruiz will be joining us in 2012 as a contributing writer. Ruiz is a resident of Swansea, Illinois and has attended Southwestern Illinois College in Belleville. Aaron has also served as the CoEditor of the McKendree Montage at McKendree University in Lebanon, IL. Look for his first articles in the coming weeks.

Tuesday, December 20, 2011

Sherwood Forest Camp Provides Opportunity for Youth www.BellevillePride.Org via Daniel McCree Foundation SHERWOOD FOREST CAMP Did you know that families pay just $50 for their child to attend camp, regardless of the length of the session? Siblings cost only $25. However, the actual cost of camp is nearly $150 per camper, PER DAY. The difference is covered by your generous contributions. We thank you for making camp possible for hundreds of St. Louis children each summer! The Daniel McCree Foundation supports this important organzation as both Alumni and Volunteer efforts. You too can support them, and the opportunities they make possible for our youth in need. www.DanielMcCree.Org A Short Reflection on the December issue: I guess in a sense, the monthly go-round of putting the monthly publication together is my version of throwing around some color. The inside joke has been that no matter how many times I "proof" an issue, there is always one glaring typo. And it has almost become a sense of questioning where it will be, and how it will make it's presence known. Those of you further down on the vine remember that Daniel often put typo's in his writing to prove a point. Perhaps the point is that perfection is something unattainable, or an even more benign method of simply saying "I'm still here". Either way this month's blunder would be none other than that I misspelled my own name... how about that :) I think the best and only thing to do is just call it out and allow it to be whatever it is. Peace & Shalom, Colby

The longest lasting business directory since 1994 dedicated to connecting the LGBTQ community to services, businesses, and organization resources in the St. Louis Metropolitan Area.

Paducah Pride Pride St. Louis www.pridestl.org (VISIT ONLINE) The Pride Pages www.thepridepages.com

PRIDE FEST 2012 June 23th and 24th 11am-8pm Tower Grove Park 4256 Magnolia Avenue St Louis, MO 63110-3569 Commitment Ceremony at 3:00pm on Saturday Official Pride Parade at 12:00pm on Sunday

METRO EAST PRIDE OF SOUTHWESTERN ILLINOIS (MEPSI) www.MetroEastPride.com

Thoughts From a Mouthy Saint: The "Joy" that's only one click away 12/31/2011 www.BellevillePride.Org by: Colby Kluthe, MetroEast NEWS As I prepare my spirit for the year ahead, I usually try to start by reconnecting with where I have been, and take a breath before building up the momentum to keep walking. Its not unlike the walk to the nearest store. It's only 3 blocks away, but in Tower Grove- its a 1/2 mile block and uphill. And for me, I much prefer to walk an alleyway than a sidewalk. It's the "hidden" gem in any city. "Where Real meets the Road" if I may imply. -Thats another story for another time. I am willing to imagine that over the past year I have "liked" or "shared" or "stumbled","Tweeted" & Blogged more than 1000 links. And more than any link I have ever shared, one I have to set apart as perhaps the best kept secret in our global community. They have become old friends and deserve a formal introduction. They were on hand in 2009 broadcasting about our pride celebrations in Belleville, so I gladly give them a nod and wish them all the best in 2012!

Joy 94.9FM Radio is a non-profit broadcast radio station in Melbourne, Vic. Australia. Joy94 took to the airwaves in 1993, and today broadcasts and webcasts to a global audience. For a St. Louis native, if you can imagine National Public Radio from an LGBT perspective. While I have heard several podcast stations and webcasters in the United States, nothing can be compared to the level of programing and perspectives available here. JOY 94.9 is an independent voice for the diverse lesbian and gay communities listened to by 216,000 people in Melbourne and more online. Access podcasts, blogs and listen online to award winning music & talk, news & current affairs, arts & cultural programs.

The station provides over 450 free Community Service Announcements on behalf of organisations that serve and support our community. The station is fuelled by the dedication of over 200 volunteers and only a handful of paid core staff. JOY 94.9 is proudly self-funded through on air sponsorship and most importantly membership. JOY 94.9 is a member of the Community Broadcasting Association of Australia www.cbaa.org.au

Upcoming EVENTS