Vital Voice Adds to Project's Media Archives
February 10, 2015: The Vital Voice had added to the Project's media archives. Darin Slyman, CEO of Vital Voice, has donated copies of the last five years of the magazine. Darin has just celebrated his five year anniversary as CEO of the publication, whose roots trace back to the Lesbian and Gay News Telegraph founded in 1981 - making Vital Voice one of the oldest operating LGBT media outlets in America. Thanks Darin for these most recent pages documenting the history and vibrant life of St. Louis' LGBT community.
Goodson/Dowling Donations
February 8, 2015: The Project sincerely thanks David Goodson for recently donating several new finds for the Project's archives. Dave provided regional LGBT publicaitons and a fun dinner menu from Bootsie, Winkie and Maude’s bar and restaurant that was located on Tucker Blvd., in the early 1990s. But the highlight of his donations is a polo shirt from City Centre bar in East St. Louis on behalf of his partner Seumas Michael Dowling, who sadly passed away last summer. Thanks David for these great memories.
Tim Cusick Donation
February 6, 2015: The Project is thrilled to receive a treasure trove of donations from Tim Cusick. The items include regional and national LGBT publications and an amazing collection of pins and buttons . In 1992, Tim was the first "out" LGBT candidate for State Representative in Missouri. Although unsuccessful in his bid for the 64th District seat, he paved the way for other "out" state-wide and regional candidates that have followed. Thanks Tim for this great addition to the Project's archives.
2015 Bartender's Review Raises $2,412 for Project
January 24, 2015: The 2015 Bartender's Review hosted by Just John on January 18 has raised $2,412 for the St. Louis LGBT History Project. The amount includes a match from an anonymous donor.
The Bartender's Review dates back to the 1980s at Faces nightclub in East St. Louis when bartender Don Granda created the night of campy drag to raise money to support local HIV/AIDS programs. Over the years, area LGBT bars have hosted the fun night of drag, comedy, and entertainment. Dormant for a few years, Just John has recently resurrected the once annual event. This year's event was organized by Tony Corso with bartender's from Just John, Bar:PM, Attitudes, Meyer's Grove, and Rehab performing. The LGBT Center of St. Louis serves as the Project's fiscal agent, allowing the Project to raise funds for educational displays and artifact preservation. Thanks Tony and everyone for your support. Picture by Darin Slyman, Vital Voice (Jeromy Ruot, Tony Corso, and Steven Brawley).