Thoughts From a Mouthy Saint: The "Joy" that's only one click away

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, (MP3 DOWNLOAD)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.

Listen Live - JOY 94.9 - gay and lesbian radio for Melbourne, Australia and the world

joy.org.au

JOY 94.9 is a member of the Community Broadcasting Association of Australia www.cbaa.org.au

Passages: Sasha Valentino -by Kate Sosin, Windy City Times

www.BellevillePride.Org
via Windy City Times

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 Universo Latina, Miss Sweetheart International and Miss Liberty International.
In total, friends estimate that she carried over 40 titles.
(READ MORE)


Original Story

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.

Holiday Dinner at LGBT Center

www.BellevillePride.org
via SAGE METRO ST.LOUIS
 
Holiday Dinner at LGBT Center

(ST. LOUIS)
You are invited to the 1st Holiday Dinner at The LGBT Center of St. Louis. This day is designed for people who need a place to spend Christmas Day. It's family time here at the Center.
The Center will be open from 9 am to 9 pm with a Holiday Dinner being served at 3 p.m. (Please bring a side dish)

Location: 4337 Manchester Ave., Saint Louis, MO 63108

RSVP by calling the LGBT Center of St. Louis 314.472.5428.

MetroEast NEWS welcomes Aaron Phillip Ruiz

www.BellevillePride.org
by: Colby Kluthe -MetroEast NEWS


(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 Co-Editor of the McKendree Montage at McKendree University in Lebanon, IL.  Look for his first articles in the coming weeks and in our January issue. 

2012 EQIL Gala is set for Saturday, February 11

www.BellevillePride.Org
on behalf of Equality Illinois

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.

Holiday announcements from MEPSI

www.BellevillePride.org
via Metro East Pride of Southwestern Illinois (MEPSI)

(BELLEVILLE)
Metro East Pride of Southwestern Illinois will be offering pictures with our Sexy Santa or Ms. Claus at Club Escapade's Christmas Party. Proceeds to go towards our annual PrideFest, June 16th.  Location is at Club Escapade 133 W. Main Street 62220   www.MetroEastPride.com

HOLIDAY FOOD DRIVE
MetroEast Pride of Southwestern Illinois is proud to announce that it will be collecting non-perishable food items throughout the holiday season to benefit The Food Pantry at Bethany Place. Please visit one of our drop box locations: Wagner Buick GMC in Belleville, Club-Escapade Belleville, The Tan Company in Shiloh or The LGBT Center of St. Louis (FINAL PICKUP DEC 19TH).