Quorum Columbus December 2013

+ Much More

OCDECEMBER 2013

GAY APPAREL? GAY FREE! APPAREL? STEAL MEWHAT -- i’M OR QUORUM COLUMBUS LGBTQA MAGAZINE

NEW MENU. NEW HAPPY HOUR. BEST LOYALTY PROGRAM IN COLUMBUS

SouthBend "Still Your Favorite Corner Bar!" *Ukulele Cowboy Society Sun Dec 1 - 7 to 9pm *Southbend Show Hosts Give Back "Toys for Tots" Jello Shots - 50/50 Raffle - Potluck @7pm Sun Dec 8 - 830pm *OCCO Annual Christmas Party 50/50 Raffle - Potluck @3pm - Show @5pm Holiday Music performed by Bobby Hamlin Sat Dec 14 - 2 to 4pm *Bobby Hamlin from 6 to 8pm joining him live - The Snatch Sisters from 8 to 10pm Sun Dec 22 - 6 to 10pm

*Christmas Day Potluck 2pm The Joey Show "Roast of Coco Kane" Wed Dec 25 - 10pm *Cari Wayne Birthday Benefit Sat Dec 28 - 7 - 9pm *Blackburn Project Duets Live Sun Dec 29 - 7 - 9pm *All Show Hosts - New Year's Eve Bash Tues Dec 31 - 10 & Midnight *New Year's Day Potluck Pork & Krout Wed Jan 1 - 2pm

Hours: Mon / Sat - Noon to 2:30 / Happy Hour Noon to 8 / Sun 12 to 12 Nightly Events call for more info or visit us at facebook.com/SouthbendTavern 126 E. Moler St. Columbus, Ohio (614) 444 - 3386 Southbend@wowway.biz

.com

facebook.com/SouthBendTavern

Free WiFi * Free Parking * Never A Cover

26 CULTURE Winter-culture Land!

8 SCENE Stompers

28 SARA SHARES More Than Just Christmas

10 SCENE Mr. Gay Ohio Pride 2014

30 COUPLE Catie + Shoshanna

12 DEVELOPMENT The Library is Open

32 SCENE Miss Gay Pride Ohio 2014

14 TASTE BUDS Holidays Tips from the Foodies

34 SCENE Out & About

16 DECEMBER BARTENDER John Wihebrink, Exile

36 CRAB RACING

DECEMBER

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CONTENTS

6 MOSAIC Homo for the Holidays

18 SEXPERT Love Yourself Today 20 PERSPECTIVE Shade: Naughty or Nice?

22 #wantlocal Holiday Shopping Ideas

38 FITNESS Holiday Health 40 TRANSlation Advice from Jackie 45 ADJOURN Tom Grote

For more information visit: www.QuorumColumbus.com About our December Artist: Reggie Weaver, an Ohio native, earned his Bachelor of FineArts from the Columbus College of Art and Design (CCAD). The visual arts have always been a huge part of Reggie’s life and an outlet for self-expression and self-realization. Reggie Weaver’s artwork has been published alongside such prominent artists as Mike Peters and Willis “Bing” Davis. In February of 2013, Reggie launched his first webcomic series entitled ” Reggie Weaver’s Living Out Webcomic” (RLOW for short).

RLOW’s mission is to be a brand that promotes the appreciation of diversity, creativity and inclusion among the LGBTQIA community. Reggie’s biggest artistic influences are Bruce Timm “(Batman: The Animated Series”), Mike Peters (“Mother Goose and Grimm”) and Bill Watterson (“Calvin and Hobbes”). In his free time Reggie trains for his first physique competition in March of 2014.

quorum crew Isaac Bendele Mickey J. Hart Bowen Marshall Sara Ernest Amy Tannenbaum President & Publisher Editor Columnist Columnist Photographer

Columnist

Patrick Butler JM Rayburn Graphic Designer Graphic Designer Illustrator Social Media Manager

Michael Lovett Scene Contributor

Jerry Turnes Craig Chadwell Web & Digital Graphic Designer Media Developer Columnist

Josh McConaughy Scene Contributor

Que Jones Columnist

John Henry Columnist

Mike Moffo Accounts Executive Columnist

Michael Greenhouse Columnist

Also on the Crew:

Andrew Johnson, Assistant Editor Jackie Vanderworth, Columnist Adrian Neil, Jr., Columnist Ray LaVoie, Photography Allyson Fridley, Scene Photography Clare Hughes, Graphic Design

Heather Doughty, Graphic Design

Joshua McCarty - Distribution Coordinator

Kris Littler Contributor

Erik Hays CFO

This month’s Contributors:

Tom Grote, Adjourn John S. Lathram, Photography

On the Cover:

Couple Derek W. Butcher and Spencer W. Brielmaier photographed by Ray Lavoie at the home of David Hayes and Scott Van Hooser.

#JoinTheQuorum

THE MOST WONDERFUL TIME OF YEAR | MICKEY J. HART

My favorite reflective game to play is one that I call, “You Might Be Gay If…” I bet many of you can easily play this game too. While not all of us fit neatly into queer stereotypes at all times, most of us are that fabulous on occasion. At a young age, the holiday season caused my gay gene to glimmer brighter than the big glitter-covered star atop my family’s Christmas tree. Yes Virginia, you might me gay if you take over your family’s Christmas tree decorating and gift wrapping duties before the age of 10. I still love this most wonderful time of the year, but I don’t pull out all the stops anymore.

Though, I praise all those who do (Josh and Ben to name two such friends).

Ohio’s next Pride Leadership cycle. Learn more at www.liveunitedcentralohio.org.

Last month I mentioned the giving nature of our LGBTQA community. As we near the end of the year, I encourage everyone to consider supporting ARC Ohio, BRAVO, Equality Ohio, Freedom Ohio, Kaleidoscope Youth Center, Stonewall Columbus, TransOhio, and/or The Legacy Fund with a holiday gift. Most of the organizations are eligible for tax exempt donations, so your gift could be mutually beneficial. Another way to give is with your time.

Ever considered getting involved with a nonprofit or community organization? If so, I recommend applying to be part of the United Way of Central

On behalf of the Quorum Columbus Crew, I wish you and yours peace, love, and happiness this holiday season.

This month Quorum Columbus welcomes Adrian Neal, Jr., who will be sharing his “Perspective” on a regular basis. This issue’s holiday offerings include Bowen Marshall considering heading “homo for the holidays”, The Taste Buds sharing their favorites list just in time for holiday feasts, Sara Ernest encouraging everyone to think beyond Christmas this month, and JM Rayburn providing holiday shopping ideas with #wantlocal. Tom Grote, a founder of Equality Ohio, adjourns this issue and 2013 with a reflection on this landmark year.

Here’s to a bright and more equitable New Year!

Mickey J. Hart

Editor

mickey@quorumcolumbus.com

HOMO FOR THE HOLIDAYS | BOWEN MARSHALL I WAS HAVING a cup of coffee with my friend one Saturday morning. We were chatting about our relationships when out of the blue he asked me, “How do you feel about going home with your boyfriend for Thanksgiving?” I started to answer but then stopped and thought, “Can you go homo for the holidays?” And further, “If you do go homo, just how gay can the holidays be?”

A week and a half later, my boyfriend hosted a housewarming party that felt like something out of West Side Story; only in this situation the gays—aka many of our friends—were the Sharks and his family was the Jets. It was nerve-racking for both of us as it was a coming together of worlds. We both worried that it might end with a shooting, not of Tony but of our hopes that his family will become more comfortable with him being gay and with our relationship.

To our surprise and delight, the party could not have gone better. People came, they ate and drank, they “oohed” and “aahhed” at the house, and, most importantly, they talked.

As I moved about the party, they talked about careers, their loved ones, and themselves. There were not Sharks or Jets, just people getting to know one another. At one point while refilling the guacamole, I caught his eye and we smiled at each other; and in that moment I knew that I would be going home with him for the holidays. This party had shown us that we could.

I heard once that being gay is like stepping into a culture without a childhood. I think that is changing for youth today, as the average age for coming out is now 16; I also know that for many of us going home means going back. It means going back to a world that knew us before we knew ourselves. This is not to say that these are worlds that can’t change or that we need to abandon, but it can mean we need to prepare ourselves for uninformed or unkind words from those we love.

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For those of you like me who are traveling back to their own homes or to a partner’s home, here are some things I keep in mind to preserve my sanity:

• I believe that we will get through this. Times may be difficult now, but over time the people who truly care for me will learn to love and treat me better than this.

• I can leave at any time. Showing my or my partner’s family that I care for them does not have to come at the cost of my self and my sense of self-worth.

• The family I have built in my adult life will be here for me when I get back, and I know that we can commiserate and swap war stories to build ourselves back up.

• Going home will never be the same because I am not the same. Both my family and I will have to get to know one another as we are now, and that’s okay too.

• My partner and I are in it together when it comes to our families. We will navigate our homes together and we cannot let things that occur overpower the love we have for one another.

Choosing to go home for the holidays with a partner is a big step for any couple; for those of us navigating the sea of family expectations in a same-sex relationship, the waters can be especially stormy. Be brave, be yourselves, and take safe harbor in the knowledge that going home isn’t your final port. Your life together is.

And hey, if things get really bad, just remember that the “lost ham” that no one can find is actually crammed into your suit case for you to eat your feelings later. Wait, scratch that, because I bet honey glaze doesn’t come out of dress shirts.

Field of Light, Photo by Mark Pickthall

Wednesday, Thursday & Friday Evenings, 5–11pm 1777 E. Broad St. | www.fpconservatory.org/light

Presenting Sponsor:

Lead Sponsors:

Major Sponsors: Cardinal Health The Columbus Foundation The Columbus Dispatch Fahlgren Mortine Exclusive Hotel Partner: Crowne Plaza Columbus Downtown

SCENE

HOSTS

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SCENE The Dusty Road Show The Columbus Stompers presented The Dusty Road Show at Wall Street Nightclub on Saturday, Nov. 2. Brent Fabian and Britney Blaire served as the hosts of the event. In addition the Columbus Stompers, the event featured performances by Hellin Bedd, Ashley O’Shea, The Yellow Rose Cloggers, and the hosts. This was the Stompers’ 2nd annual benefit show to support local charities.

The silent auction proceeds went to Kaleidoscope Youth Center.

SCENE

MR, OHIO GAY PRIDE 2014

Hosted By:

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WE ARE GIVING HOLIDAY SHOPPING A SWIFT KICK IN THE JINGLE BELLS! WE FULFILL DREAMS OF PERSONAL FREEDOM!

C&A Harley-Davidson速, Inc. 7610 Commerce Place, Plain City/Dublin Ohio www.ca-hd.com 614-764-BIKE(2453)

The Library is open...

DEVELOPMENT

| JM RAYBURN DID YOU KNOW the Columbus Metropolitan Library (CML) has been consistently ranked as a top library system in the country? By some measurements, it is the best. We are fortunate to have such a progressive library system in our community. One reason for high marks has to do with the ever growing digital library with free access to 50,000 eBook titles and counting. That number doesn’t even take into account CML’s partnerships which grant cardholders access to thousands of streaming videos, audiobooks, music albums, and magazines. And it’s all free. All you need is a CML library card and an eReader device.

The partnerships noted above are with companies called Zinio and Hoopla. Zinio gives CML cardholders free access to nearly a quarter of a million magazine titles that can be downloaded to eReaders. Hoopla allows those with a CML library card to download from a digital collection of roughly half a million movies, audiobooks, and music albums to their eReader devices.

CML was among the first library systems in the country to partner with Hoopla. And Hoopla continues to grow. Earlier this month, Hoopla made a deal with NBC Universal and is in the process of adding nearly 500 more movie titles to its collection! Here’s the really cool thing, though: When the lending period expires, the item automatically returns itself to the collection – meaning late fees are a thing of the past.

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Right now, anyone with a CML library card and a smartphone or tablet can have free access to hundreds upon thousands of eBooks, audiobooks, movies, music albums, and magazines. If you receive an eReader or tablet as a gift during the upcoming holidays (wink, wink), CML offers free classes periodically at several of their locations to help the public get accustomed to using their devices to download items.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to ask—librarians love questions. The staff at the Columbus Metropolitan Library would gladly assist Quorum Columbus readers in any way they can! And, of course, if you don’t have a library card, you can sign up online or at any of their 21 library locations. Remember, it’s all free!

The Columbus Metropolitan Library 96 S. Grant Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43215 614.645.2275

image from Wikipedia Commons

RIGHT NOW, ANYONE WITH A CML LIBRARY CARD AND A SMARTPHONE OR TABLET CAN HAVE FREE ACCESS TO HUNDREDS UPON THOUSANDS OF EBOOKS, AUDIOBOOKS, MOVIES, MUSIC ALBUMS AND MAGAZINES.

Holiday Tips From The Foodies: “These Are A Few Of Our Favorite Places” THE TASTE BUDS

| CRAIG CHADWELL & MIKE MOFFO A CHANCE MEETING with a fun couple who asked Taste Bud Craig to discuss The Taste Buds’ favorite Columbus places to eat prompted this banner theme for a year-end, random roundup of locally-owned eateries.

(If you’ve read us by now, you know we love our hole-in-the-wall and we surely shun “chains.”) So listing a few genres in and about central Ohio, here are some sure-fire choices. Post this list on the refrigerator and visit these places when family comes to town and you want to get them out of your house. Send them here! Sure, you can join them, too, if you want.

For Italian (we’ll start here because this is Taste Bud Mike’s addicti...um passion. Yeah, passion), there’s Bruno’s amazing, golden-colored, homemade pasta on 161/East Dublin Granville Road. Closer to downtown, The Florentine, West Broad Street, and TAT Ristorante Di Famiglia, South James Road, are two Columbus classics worthy of a visit! If you’re thinking only a stromboli will satisfy, few if any surpass Carsonie’s, either on Lane Avenue in Upper Arlington or up on Westerville Road near 270. You’ll need extra sauce... and a spare stomach.

Mmmmmm, Pizza. Sometimes, there’s nothing like that greasy pie of cheesy goodness. Ah, the places we can list: Mikey’s Late Night Slice at any location, either of Tommy’s location on Lane Avenue, or Sparano’s Pizza (Northwest Boulevard or Trabue Road). Given his Italian heritage, Taste Bud Mike, when prompted for his favorite, quickly announces, “Cardo’s is my hands-down favorite,” referring to the Pickerington pizza legend on Refugee Road.

Heading out near the casino, Emelio’s on Georgesville Road is another close runner-up.

For Asian, our hands-down favorite is still Thai Basil’s at North Star and King Avenue in Grandview. But Lemon Grass in the Short North and Chai Thai, North Hamilton Road in Gahanna, are impressive options if you’re debating chowing down with chopsticks.

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WE’RE ALL LIKELY GOING TO PUT ON A FEW HOLIDAY POUNDS ANYWAY, SO THE TASTE BUDS REMIND YOU EARN THOSE POUNDS PROUDLY BY “EATING LOCAL!”

For south-of-the-border goodness, our unanimous first choice: Cuco’s on West Henderson. Texana Margaritas and a cab ride are a must! There’s Yabo’s Tacos in Upper Arlington or Westerville for great-priced, made-from-scratch cuisine. At Yabo’s, try their many sauces! From mild through scorching, there’s one for every taste! Our previously-reviewed downtown favorites, Garcia’s Internationale on North High Street and El Camino Inn on South Fourth Street, are inexpensive with dishes to suit all persnickety palates.

For random genres, we’ll easily add AAB India in Grandview, Pig Iron on North High Street for barbecue, and Thurman Cafe for burgers, Dan’s Drive In on South High Street for breakfast food (Grits. Yum!), Bossy Grrl’s Pinup Joint in Old North for samiches. For great all-around dining experiences, head up to Level Dining Lounge on North High Street or Explorers Club down on South High Street.

So whether you just don’t feel like cooking or you’re sending the family away to get a few moments of silence without Aunt Norma babbling on about her corns, take advantage of any of these or other locally-owned Columbus restaurants. We’re all likely going to put on a few holiday pounds anyway, so The Taste Buds remind you earn those pounds proudly by “eating local!”

Craig & Mike have been a couple for more than 11 years and were married in Washington, DC, in 2012. They are the proud parents of three young adults. They appreciate friends, riding their motorcycles, reasonably-priced local eateries, good wine, and a nice IPA beer. In case you missed it, they always encourage you to “eat local” to support local businesses.

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At Prudential, that’s a challenge we can meet.

Call me today and let’s talk about how we can help you.

Benjamin Schlotterer Financial Professional Associate The Prudential Insurance Company of America 4349 Easton Way, Suite 100 Columbus, OH 43219 Office 614-383-3769 Benjamin.Schlotterer@Prudential.com

© 2013 Prudential Financial, Inc., and its related entities. Prudential, the Prudential logo, the Rock symbol and Bring Your Challenges are service marks of Prudential Financial, Inc., and its related entities.

0244811-00001-00

Columbus’ trashy little Juke Joint

2598 North High St. BossyGrrlsPinupJoint.com

? h c i m m ? a s k n a i r d e D e f N .and a stif ..

Burlesque >> Music >> Comedy

BARTENDER OF THE MONTH Head a few blocks east of the Short North and you’ll find John Wihebrink slinging drinks at Exile, Columbus’ premier leather, Levi, bear, biker, and neighborhood gay bar. John’s been a bartender since 1993. He picked up the trade in Cincinnati and just recently moved shop to Exile. His favorite part of being a bartender is getting to interact with a huge group of diverse people. Now that he works at Exile, he’s especially fond of the Crab Racing crowd on Thursday nights.

WHO:

John Wihebrink

WHERE:

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Exile Bar 893 N 4th St, Columbus, OH 43201 614.299.0069

COCKTAIL:

Green Iguana: Tequila + Midori + Pineapple Juice

FUN FACT:

John doesn’t keep his voice to the shower; he’s a huge fan of karaoke singing.

Own an electronic cigarette or want to learn more about them?

Come in and check us out!

2460 N. High St. Columbus OH Monday-Friday 10-8

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SEXPERT | JOHN HENRY AS THE SEXPERT columnist, I hope that each month readers learn something or come to view some aspects of life differently. I want to give some insight into how I see the world as a sexual health outreach worker. Through personal and professional experiences, I strive to tell the story of being a young, sexually active, and responsible member of society.

From elementary concepts most know but often forget to the more complex issues we all face as an LGBTQ community, my hope is that people learn from my mistakes and their own.

My goal is to get people talking, thinking, and motivated to change. I try not to shy away from ruffling a few feathers in the process. As I see it, if you’ve pissed someone off, you’ve made them think. You don’t always have to agree with me and I hope you don’t. Discussion and debate fuel a more enlightened world. I truly believe in the concepts of social justice and equality. However, I see a hierarchy of importance when it comes to attaining these goals. Until we respect ourselves, our bodies, and our own health, how can we expect others to respect us and treat us with the dignity we deserve?

As always, the most important thing to remember is that you are worthy of more only if you believe in your own value. To quote The Perks of Being a Wallflower author Stephen Chbosky, “We accept the love we think we deserve.” Consider these words as you reflect on 2013, prepare for the joy of the holidays and the promise of a new year.

The most important thing to remember is that you are worthy of more only if you believe in your own value.

With each movement of human rights there were leaders who encouraged those involved to strive for something better in themselves and in the world. As you look back on this year, are there things you can work on to better yourself and progress the movement? I’m tired of accepting people as they are when they have the potential of so much more. Change is hard for everyone, but with an incremental approach, it is much more manageable. Try something small and grow from that. Multiple steps can make up a great leap forward.

Free confidential HIV and STI testing is available at ARC Ohio’s locations.

Anonymous HIV testing is available.

For more information call 614-299-2437 or visit www.ARCOhio.org

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SHADE

PERSPECTIVE | ADRIAN NEIL

IN THE GROUNDBREAKING documentary “Paris Is Burning,” Dorien Corey states, “Shade is I don’t tell you you’re ugly but I don’t have to tell you because you know you’re ugly. And that’s shade...” I often see LGBTQ people tearing each other down. I especially see this in my role as an outreach services specialist for the Greater Columbus Mpowerment Center, a project of the ARC Ohio. With all this shade being thrown around, we need to pause to ask questions. Is it necessary? Why do we do this? What is the balance between fun and harm? Why does a community that is already fighting for so many things battle each other?

While shade can be viewed as a form of banter, it can often be taken to the point where it impacts an individual’s mental and social development and outlook on a particular community. I have many times found myself on the negative side of shade.

Growing up, I felt alienated from my peers and family because of my sexual orientation, and I felt alienated from a community where being different is supposed to be celebrated, not debased. I quickly found myself feeling more alone than I had before coming out.

At that point in my life, I didn’t feel comfortable within the African American gay community (and truthfully, I still don’t at times) because that is where most of my negative experiences have occurred. As a result, I developed a distrust and found myself feeling alone, not good enough, and like I didn’t meet some sort of gay black standard of acceptance. This led to depression, self-harm, and feelings of being unworthy of love and friendship. I felt betrayed, not only by my family and society, but by a community who I thought would accept differences. Not only did I not have the family support I desired, but I also didn’t have a group of non-judgmental, young African American gay males that I could turn to for support.

Naughty or Nice?

In my opinion, shade is often the result of someone being jealous or self-conscious about their shortcomings. I too am guilty of throwing shade; usually it’s because I see a characteristic in someone else that I wish I possessed. For example, when I would see people who were not afraid to be themselves no matter what others thought, I would get jealous.

I was not yet at that place in my life, so I would quickly pass judgment or talk about them. Secretly I wished I was that confident to be who Adrian really was.

Talking about someone without money for certain shoes or making fun of someone who happens to sleep with many people is exactly what we shouldn’t be doing. We may find it to be a joke or think of it as innocent fun, but we don’t know the person’s whole story, what their struggles are, and how our “shade” will affect them.

When I have pointed out that maybe the person has been though a deeply traumatic experience, many have responded, “Well, I have had traumatic things happen to me and I got over it.” I think it is important to understand that not everyone is emotionally or mentally strong enough to just “get over it.”

Either way, this type of shade is not healthy for our LGBTQ brother or sister– and it is not healthy for our LGBTQ community.

WHY DOES A COMMUNITY THAT IS ALREADY FIGHTING FOR SO MANY THINGS BATTLE EACH OTHER? With the growing rate of suicides, bullying, and HIV infections, it is time for us to collectively rise above all this. As we head into 2014, I implore each person to ask yourself: Am I helping to build up the community or am I still stuck within the narrow confines of my own individualistic concerns?

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#wantlocal

For every $100 you spend at locally owned businesses, $68 will stay in the community.

| JM RAYBURN VICTORIAN VILLAGE

Meet Style Now

www.MeetStyleNow.com MSN started as an outlet where fashion blogger Ian Estep could discuss his passion for trends and travel. A few months and nearly 400 followers later, he decided to include an online store to sell cheeky graphic t-shirts. I learned from Ian that a chic t-shirt is like a great pair of blue jeans – once deemed inappropriate to wear to formal events but is now an everyday wardrobe staple.

Just think how priceless it would be to show off your very own Twerkin for a Birkin chic t-shirt! It’s one of many gems you’ll find in the MSN Shop. Now is the time to start thinking of your 2014 style. You’ll want to stay up-to-date on Meet Style Now. It’s fashion at your fingertips.

SHORT NORTH

Milk Bar Boutique

www.MilkBarBoutique.com

Milk Bar is a fashion boutique with a curated selection of men’s and women’s clothing. It is the place to go to shop the latest on-trend fashions and accessories this holiday season. The owner, Kareem Jackson, is friendly and knowledgeable on what’s up on trends. If you’re looking to show off your Milk Bar looks this winter, then you’re in luck. Kareem is also host to several popular dance parties, including Righteous, Get Right, and OGEE.

For every $100 you spend at a national chain store, only $43 stays in the community.

GERMAN VILLAGE

Kolache Republic

www.KolacheRepublic.com

Kolache Republic was founded in 2010 with one goal in mind—to introduce Columbus to kolache using the freshest ingredients with no preservatives and sourcing locally when possible. You may be asking about kolache [kuh-lah-chee].

Traditionally, it is a Czech pastry made of a slightly sweet bread baked with a variety of fruit, nut, and sweet cheese fillings. Kolache Republic serves a variety of sweet and savory varieties filled with cheese, fruit, veggies, and meat. Best of all, each kolache is handmade from scratch using the freshest ingredients.

OLDE TOWNE EAST

Corner Stone Craft Beer & Wine www.CornerStoneColumbus.com Corner Stone is a locally owned and operated wine and craft beer shop located in Olde Towne East. It provides the local neighborhood with a convenient and unintimidating shopping destination for fine wine, cider, and craft beer. Their goals are to provide a comfortable environment for you to browse, help you learn more about beer and wine from their knowledgeable staff, and help you select the perfect complimentary beverages for socializing, events, and meals.

My favorite part about Corner Stone is the huge selection of local brands, not to mention the wide selection of cider (my favorite). Be sure to stop by Corner Stone for all your holiday libations.

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#wantlocal

“Every time you spend money, you’re casting a vote for the kind of world you want.”

—

Anna Lappé

POLARIS FASHION PLACE

Simply Vague www.ShopLocalOhio.com Simply Vague supports local artists, handcrafters, food artisans, inventors, and farmers. They are a consignment store and are currently looking for new, oneof-a-kind, handmade items. Everything in the store is made locally! Whether you are looking for home decor, jewelry, the perfect gift, or something for your four-legged friend, you can find it here. Simply Vague offers only unique and one-of-a-kind products! If you want to feature your art or product at Simply Vague, visit www.shoplocalohio.com and fill out the vendor application or email SimplyVagueStore@gmail.com.

Know of a local business that deserves the spotlight?

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Give them a shoutout on our Twitter @quorumcolumbus with the hashtag #wantlocal.

You can also submit suggestions www.QuorumColumbus.com/wantlocal-contact-us.html

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WALKING IN A WINTER-CULTURE LAND! CULTURE

| QUE JONES THE HOLIDAY SEASON is one of my favorite times of year, and Columbus lives up to this grand time of year with a smattering of winter-themed events to attend. While it is so easy to hibernate when the “weather outside is frightful,” fight that urge and make sure to venture out to some of my favorite culture-filled holiday events.

Ballet Met performs Tchaikovsky’s “The Nutcracker” December 12 through December 24. From dancing candy to sugar plum fairies, the ballet provides entertainment for young and old alike. Centering on a magic nutcracker that comes to life, this Christmas-inspired story perfectly transports the audience into a whimsical winter wonderland.

“The Nutcracker” has become such a staple at the Ohio Theater that every year State St., just south of the Statehouse, is transformed into “Nutcracker Way.” Growing up in Columbus, the ballet at Christmastime was one of my favorite traditions.

Whether you have seen it one or 1,000 times, make sure “The Nutcracker” becomes part of your winter tradition.

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The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, voted the number one zoo in America by USA Travel Guide, puts on a spectacular light show every winter season. Featuring more than 3 million lights in both stationary and animated musical shows, this twinkling spectacular is a must-see. Running November 22 through January 5, Wildlights is a beautiful sight to enjoy with friends, family, or maybe even a loved one. While the schedule is not posted yet, the zoo features local and national musicians on their many stages. Check their website, pick a group you want to hear, and make plans to head to the zoo this holiday season. Make sure to dress warmly, as this outdoor spectacular can get quite chilly.

Dickens of a Christmas is a yearly event held at the Ohio Historical Society Village. This faux-Victorian village comes complete with actors portraying traditional 19th-century characters. This complete town, located right off interstate 71 just north of downtown, will transport you back in time with crafts, caroling, food, and a beautiful glimpse into the ghosts of Christmas past.

Running December 13, 14, 20, 21, and 22, this traditional town will warm your heart and put you into the perfect holiday spirit!

New Year’s Eve in Columbus is one of downtown’s biggest parties. Taking place on December 31, First Night Columbus, starting at 5 p.m. and climaxing with a fireworks display at midnight, this downtown extravaganza is full of live music on several stages.

Head downtown, enjoy the sounds of some local groups, enjoy some street art, eat vendor food, and see a fireworks display in this substance-free, family-orientated event. While this event winds down after midnight, your night doesn’t have to as the Short North is just a short walk up High Street.

Be sure to fight the winter blues and resist the urge to hibernate this winter. Columbus is a hotbed of culture and holiday fun sure to keep you warm and fulfilled during this exciting time of year.

Happy Holidays!

Get tickets and learn more about these Holiday Cultural events: Ballet Met’s The Nutcracker

www.BalletMet.org Wildlights at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium www.ColsZoo.org

Ohio Historical Society’s Dickens of a Christmas www.OhioHistory.org First Night Columbus - New Year’s Celebration www.FirstNightColumbus.com

SARA SHARES

(More than just Christmas)

PERSPECTIVE

| SARA ERNEST YAY! IT’S DECEMBER! That can only mean one thing: it’s time once again for the super, awesomest, bestest, most fabulous, super fun, only holiday that really counts – Christmas! Right?

Wrong.

Well, not totally wrong. Christmas is awesome, fabulous, and super fun, but it isn’t the only holiday that people celebrate in December. It seems that sometimes people lose sight of the fact there are just as many winter holidays as there are religions, faiths, and belief systems.

Corporate America would have us believe that there is only one major holiday that everyone in this country celebrates to the exclusion of all others. They spend so much time and money advertising the biggest discounts and the longest shopping hours that it’s easy to forget that there are people who celebrate other things or nothing at all.

It seems to me that there’s really only one truly all-encompassing winter holiday, but folks, it’s already past and the symbol is a turkey, not an evergreen tree. I think many people take for granted that our hometown is made up of more than Christians and non-believers who subscribe to the Christmas traditions because that’s just what they do. That is definitely true of our LGBTQ community too.

Most of us don’t have to look that far to see other holiday traditions celebrated. Christmas at my house is a reminder that there is more to the season than what many of us think of as our one holiday. My partner Lori’s brother-in-law is Jewish, but we don’t make a point of celebrating Chanukah with him. I know I’m as much to blame for that as anyone in the family. Maybe this month’s column is my first step to rectifying that.

MOST OF US DON’T HAVE TO LOOK THAT FAR TO SEE OTHER HOLIDAY TRADITIONS CELEBRATED With approximately three-quarters of the population of the United States following the Christian religions, it’s not hard to understand why Christmas is overwhelmingly the most celebrated holiday this time of year. Let’s not forget the other 25 percent though.

Whether you celebrate, Christmas, Chanukah, Kwanzaa, Solstice, Festivus, or any other holidays or combinations of them, your holiday is just as important and meaningful as any other. Maybe during this season of winter festivals and celebrations, when you wish someone “Happy Holidays,” you can take the time to consider what that means to them.

It may not be what you think.

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Catie Randazzo - and -

Shoshanna Gross COUPLE

|Amy Tannenbaum BEHIND THE TASTY POTATO latkes, buttermilk fried chicken, and matzo ball soup, are two women and their cross-country journey that has brought them to Columbus, Ohio, to serve up Jewish comfort foods from the Challah Food Truck.

In August 2011, before the Challah Food Truck was even a thing, Massachusetts native and dance company manager Shoshanna was living in New York City, and she visited Columbus for a weekend to celebrate her sister’s doctorate graduation at Ohio State. Catie, a chef from Columbus, was the plus-one of a guest at the graduation party. They connected at the party and continued courting through Facebook. Their relationship evolved into a long-distance romance through lots of texting and long phone conversations. Shoshanna’s weekend visits to Ohio to visit her sister turned into excuses to spend the entire the weekend with Catie. Monthly visits back and forth continued for seven months until Shoshanna

gave Catie an ultimatum, telling her, “If you can’t move here in a year, there’s no point in continuing this relationship.” Two weeks later, Catie moved to NYC. When they first met, Catie was already seriously talking about buying a truck. Shoshanna’s job was travel-heavy, and she was ready for a change. At the start of 2013, they were ready to make their dream a reality. Columbus’ emerging truck scene and Catie’s more than a decade-long experience in food in the area made Columbus the ideal destination. They started with a broad idea: they wanted to offer sandwiches. Over the holidays, Shoshanna received a Jewish cookbook as a Hanukkah gift, and a theme was born. While looking through the book, she realized how much she loved Jewish food and that there was a real void of such offerings in Columbus.

Knowing their direction toward Jewish comfort foods made their menu better and focused. Combining their strengths – Catie’s knowledge of farm-to-table food, and Shoshanna’s knowledge of Jewish foods – Shoshanna says, “We were equally invested.”

Catie and Shoshanna spent six months planning, raising money, working on the menu and holding tasting parties in New York. By spring 2013, they relocated to Ohio and the truck officially opened for business on June 30. Their menu offerings include fares such as seasonal French toasts, smoked salmon chowder, and a whitefish sandwich topped with pickled beets and a potato latke! The menu aims to stay within the boundaries of “kosher style;” the only violation lies within the crispy chicken sandwich, where the chicken is soaked in buttermilk (violating the mixing of meat in dairy).

They also work hard to have a predominantly womanoperated truck. “It wasn’t planned that way,” Shoshanna explains, “but it worked out that way. It’s mostly queer women, with good camaraderie … it’s pretty unusual to see to an all-woman crew in a pretty male-dominated scene.”

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PHOTOS| Amy Tannenbaum

Photos | Amy Tannenbaum

At the opening, they were extremely busy and serving more than 200 people lined up around the block. Exhausted after a hectic and busy first day - the truck looked like a bomb went off - Catie and Shoshanna sat down and celebrated with a shot of tequila. Catie turned to Shoshanna and said: “Well, babe, you moved to Columbus and opened the truck; there’s only one thing left to do. Wanna get married?”

Looking ahead as they assess their menu this winter, explore the emerging catering side of their business and begin planning a wedding, Catie and Shoshanna have big dreams for the Challah Food Truck. They would love to expand their business to offer a food education resource center for children and develop a community garden partnership. “A restaurant would be the easy next step, but we want to do something community oriented,” Shoshanna explained.

(They both interject at this point in the story: “We’re romantic!”)

Shoshanna answered the proposal by requesting Catie to ask again, “not because I was unhappy, but because I wanted to hear it again.”

“Our dream is pretty big, but the reality is putting one foot in front of the other, keeping this business afloat, and seeing where it takes us and what comes next.”

SCENE

MISS OHIO GAY PRIDE 2014

HOSTED BY

Photos | JSL/ Queer Eye Photography 32

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What better way to ring in the season than by celebrating our LGBTQA community?

JOIN US! • Free appetizers • Cash bar • Photo Booth with Santa • Holiday raffle • Merrymaking Bring a friend!

WHERE:

The Garage 40 East Long Street Columbus OH 43215

CONTACT: RSVP Requested Call (614) 930-2264 or visit stonewallcolumbus.org/friendzy

SCENE

SCENE

OUT AND ABOUT PHOTOS| Allyson Fridley

35

Feel Great Inside & Out

CRAB RACES WITH KRIS | KRIS LITTLER

FASCINATING FACT

Hermit crabs vary greatly in size throughout the world. The Coconut crab grows nearly 16 inches long, making it one of the largest hermit crabs. The Ecuadoran hermit crab grows to a whooping half-inch long and thus one of the smallest hermit crabs in the world.

Duramatters Massage UPDATE Jay B. Stanforth HAPPY CRABS-GIVING was held on Thursday, Nov 21. Exile Bar

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The Power Of

was “stuffed” full of crab racers playing to win the catered full Thanksgiving dinner from Kroger. Nearly 80 crabs were on the table that night! Other winners received frozen turkeys, pies, and digestive aids. You never know what you might win at the crab races.

UPCOMING

Thursday, Dec. 12 at Exile Bar

Ben Schlotterer from Prudential Insurance Company of America will serve as the special sponsor for the night. Prudential is a Fortune Global 500 and Fortune 500 company. In addition to the races and prizes, Ben will have information and answer questions about life insurance, mutual funds, retirement, annuity, and real estate.

Thursday, Dec. 19 at Exile

This will be the Annual Christmas Crab Race called...wait for it...

Santa Claws! That’s right; the big fat crab will be giving out gifts whether you’re naughty or nice!

GREAT NAMES

NOT SO GREAT

Conc-A-Doodle-Doo, Shell-Vira, Hide Your Kids - Hide Your Crabs, Crab My Crotch, D.j. Pit Claw, Herb Eaversmelz, Clawrian War, Black Conch Down, Crabroids.com, General Buttcrabs, Cucamonga Cracka Killaz, Itchy & Scratchy Law Firm, Throbbin Hood, Barak-Aroni And Cheese, Shell-Eata Buffet

Bob, Freddy, Teal Green, Fancy, Lucky, Hank, Talk Nerdy To Me, Crab To The Bone, Crabby, Mel Crabson, Crab In A Barrel, Mitch, Registered Sex Offender

See you at the races.

Until then, stay crabbie!

FOLLOW THE CRABS Facebook/ CrabRacingwithKris

Keeping Healthy Through The Holidays FITNESS

| MICHAEL GREENHOUSE THE HOLIDAY SEASON IS UPON US, which can make it difficult to stay on your fitness plan, but two simple tasks that could help you stay on the right track are EATING BREAKFAST and PERFORMING ACCIDENTAL EXERICSE / MOVEMENT. We all know what breakfast is, but what is accidental exercise / movement? It is exactly what it says, moving or exercising without trying or planning. This is a very simple technique to endorse during the holiday season, as your free time will be limited and gym time could be non-existent. When you are traveling or just hanging out for the season, find things that keep you on your feet.

Great activity choices that will keep you moving and burn some calories: • Playing with the kids • Walking the dog/family pet • Clean the house or help with household chores • Park farther away from the entrance when you are out shopping.

• Play a pick-up football, baseball, or basketball game These are simple tasks, but they will keep you moving and active during a season when free time is hard to come by.

Another part of the holiday health equation is breakfast.

Breakfast literally means “breaking the fast.” After fasting overnight, breakfast helps top up the energy stores your body uses during the night to repair and regenerate itself, and it kick-starts the body’s metabolism. Skipping this simple meal can have a negative impact on memory, concentration, and learning; it can also make it difficult to maintain your healthy weight. The reason? Breakfast helps stabilize blood sugar levels that control appetite and energy. Evidently, breakfast is not a meal to be missed.

Some excellent foods to eat for breakfast: • Whole grains • Complex Carbohydrates (Oats) • Eggs • Bagels • Yogurt • Waffles

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SKIPPING THIS SIMPLE MEAL CAN HAVE A NEGATIVE IMPACT ON MEMORY, CONCENTRATION, AND LEARNING; IT CAN ALSO MAKE IT DIFFICULT TO MAINTAIN YOUR HEALTHY WEIGHT.

Eating foods like this can have a huge impact on your day and mood this holiday season. All of these foods can help lower your body fat, have a positive effect on insulin levels, give a feeling of fullness, help elevate your mood, help control appetite and improve attention, focus and memory. Of course, one part of the holiday diet that is in your complete control are portions. Go ahead, treat yourself! (Just choose to skip seconds or thirds.)

Eating a healthy breakfast, staying active throughout the day, and being aware of portion control should become a regular part of your daily routine. Starting now should make it easier when the ball drops and you begin 2014.

Once breakfast, proper portions, and exercise become habits, the next goal is making sure you consume a quality breakfast. A nutritious start to the day leads to more effective and efficient exercise or workouts. Enjoy the holiday season, eat smart, and move well.

Michael Greenhouse, owner Pure Functional Movements Specialzes in the following personal training areas: • Exercise Physiology • Bio-mechanics • Strength & Conditioning • Diet • Rehabilitation Therapy Learn more about his services at: www.facebook.com/purefunctionalmovements or www.PureFunctionalMovements.com

Happy Hour Mon-Fri 4-8PM

Mon Crab Racing with Kris Tue Industry Night Wed Karaoke with Bob Thur Local Brews Night F&S Groovy Times!

Sun Something More Sunday

913 N High St Columbus, Ohio

WANT TO ASK JACKIE A QUESTION ABOUT LIFE, THE UNIVERSE, AND EVERYTHING? GET SOME ANSWERS! JACKIE@QUORUMCOLUMBUS.COM

| JACKIE VANDERWORTH Dear Jackie, I’ve been dating this girl Stephanie since early summer and she is very high maintenance. As Christmas is approaching, she’s been hinting at an engagement ring. I am a little worried about what type of gift to give her. I know she is expecting a very expensive gift if not the ring. Even though I am a doctor, it’s always been my approach to not overdo gifts when a relationship is in its early stages. I want to get her a nice, impressive first gift, but it’s way too early for an engagement ring. I still want to impress her. Any suggestions for this first Christmas gift? ~Ben Dear Ben, Gifts should be graciously received not greedily expected.

Hopefully she is not dating you for your money. So I would get her a nice but less extravagant gift because this is your first holiday together. Then watch for her reaction...this may clue you in on what type of girl you are dating and what type of woman to whom you would be married. A gift based on her hobbies, type of work, or home, wrapped beautifully, would make a nice first gift, as would a weekend getaway. If you are bent on purchasing an expensive gift to impress this gold digger, get her a lump of coal and tell her to wait 45 million years and she’ll have her diamond! ~Jackie Dear Jackie, My partner Matt and I have an open relationship and have dabbled in threesomes occasionally. We’ve been together for two years and just moved in together. I would like to spend this Christmas on a gay cruise, and he is more of a homebody and wants to stay in town for the holiday. He enjoys decorating, baking, and hosting parties at Christmastime, and I want to forgo tradition and do something wild and crazy. Who should win this yuletide battle? ~ Gary

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Dear Gary, Tis the season to “Deck the Halls” not “Deck the Balls!” There is a time and place for everything. While it’s great you both agree on your yearlong arrangement, give it a rest at the holidays and enjoy that special time with him and family. Let him have his traditional Christmas, and you can have a decadent New Year.

Plan a winter ski weekend with uninhibited indoor fun and slippery slopes, or book a winter cruise package where there will be plenty of packages to unwrap at sea! ~Jackie Dear Jackie, It’s that time of year when my family always starts discussing Christmas gift ideas, and my sister always bring up a gift exchange. We don’t have a very large family, and I hate the idea of drawing names out of a hat and only buying for one family member. Here lies the problem: someone will get the dreaded gift from my (crazy) Uncle Ted. He’s a health-food aficionado and has been known to give us all vitamins, seaweed pills, or a back scratcher. I can’t imagine the poor relative whose name he draws! I don’t want to give in to this idea; any alternatives would be greatly appreciated. ~Kirk Dear Kirk, I’m in total agreement with you, especially for smaller families.

How about still buying for all but setting a dollar limit that’s affordable? It can be creative shopping for a $10 or $20 gift.

Make a game out of it! Have a “White Elephant” exchange of nicely used gifts. Invite everyone to bring only gift cards and have a “Yankee Swap” so guests have the opportunity to get a gift card to her or his liking. Besides who wants to give or buy only one gift? I always say “It’s the holiday season...spread it around!” ~Jackie

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DRINK.

DANCE.

4 Club 20 Old North Columbus 20 E Duncan Ave 614.261.9111 8 Exile Italian Village 893 N 4th St 614.299.0069 10 Wine on High Short North 789 N High St 614. 294.8466 13 Local Bar Short North 913 N High St 614.670.8958 14 Slammers Downtown 202 E Long St 614.221.8880

2 Axis Short North 775 N High St 614.291.4008 22 Wall Street Night Club Downtown 144 N Wall St 614.464.2800 27 Garage: Resurrected Downtown 40 E Long St 614. 205.4317

EAT + DRINK. 11 12 21 23 25 28

La Fogata Grill Short North 790 N High St 614.294.7656 Level Dining Lounge Short North 700 N High St 614.754.7111 Union Short North 782 N High St 614.421.2233 Circus Short North 1227 N High St 614.421.2998 Barrel 44 Short North 1227 N High St 614.421.2998 BossyGrrl’s Pin-Up Joint Old North Columbus 2598 N High St

614.725.5402

SHOP. 9 The Garden Short North 1186 N High St 614.294.2869 18 Torso Short North 772 N High St 614.421.7663 19 Torso (in Exile) Italian Village 893 N 4th St 614.299.0069

ENGAGE. 5 ARC OHIO Clintonville 4400 N High St 614.299.2437 24 ARC OHIO Medical Ctr + Pharmacy Short North 1033 N High St 16 Stonewall Columbus Short North 1160 N High St 614.299.7764

MERION VILLAGE

BREWERY DISTRICT SOUTH SIDE OLDE TOWNE EAST

EAT + DRINK.

DRINK. 3 6 7 15 17 20

26 Explorers Club Merion Village 1586 S High St 614.725.0155

Cavan Irish Pub Merion Village 1409 S High St 614.725.5502 Club Diversity Brewery District 863 S High St 614.224.4050 Columbus Fuel Bar Merion Village 1312 S High St 614.725.0130 South Bend Merion Village 126 E. Moler St 614.444.3386 The Toolbox Saloon South Side 744 Frebis Ave 614.670.8113 Tremont Brewery District 708 S High St 614.445.9365

DRINK + DANCE. 1 A.W.O.L. Bar + The Barracks Olde Towne East 49 Parsons Ave 614.621.8779

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MUNITY RESOURCES

LOCAL & STATE ORGANIZATIONS

NATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS

Stonewall Columbus 614-299-7764 www.stonewallcolumbus.org This local community and resource center serves the Central Ohio LGBTQ community by providing programs and services that enhance the well-being and visibility of a diverse community through discovery, affirmation, and celebration.

Additionally, Stonewall Columbus hosts the annual Pride Holiday.

GLAAD www.glaad.org A national organization that promotes fair, accurate, and inclusive media representations of LGBTQ people. as a means of challenging discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.

ARC Ohio 800-252-0827 www.arcohio.org Fights the spread of HIV, works towards reducing its transmission, stigma and the resulting discrimination through education and awareness, and provides quality services to individuals and families affected by HIV/AIDS. BRAD (Buckeye Alliance of the Deaf ) membership@gmail.com www.bradohio.com Protects and promotes the interests and well-being of deaf and hard of hearing LGBTQ people while increasing awareness about the needs of Deaf and hard of hearing community.

BRAVO (Buckeye Region Anti-Violence Organization) 614-294-STOP www.bravo-ohio.org Works to eliminate violence perpetuated on the basis of sexual orientation and/or gender identification through prevention, advocacy, violence documentation and survivor services.

Equality Ohio 614-224-0400 www.equalityohio.org A statewide lobbying organization working to secure equality for LGBT Ohioans.

FreedomOhio 614-246-3807 www.freedomohio.com The Freedom to Marry Ohio movement is dedicated to ending marriage discrimination in Ohio.

Kaleidoscope Youth Center 614-294-5437 www.kycohio.org Provides advocacy, education, support and a safe environment for LGBT youth in Central Ohio.

P-FLAG Columbus 614-806-8025 www.pflagcolumbus.org An educational advocacy group working to increase awareness and understanding for Central Ohio’s LGBT citizens and our families, friends and allies.

Rainbow Sisters www.rainbowsisters.info A social and community-oriented group for lesbian women age 40 and over.

Sisters of Lavender www.sistersoflavender.org A social/support for women 40 and over. S.O.L. is the oldest lesbian organization in Columbus.

TransOhio 614-441-8167 www.transohio.org Serves the Ohio transgender and allied communities by providing services, education, support and advocacy.

Why Marriage Matters Ohio www.whymarriagemattersoh.org A marriage equality education campaign supporting the right for any loving, committed Ohio couple to marry.

Human Rights Campaign www.hrc.com The nation’s largest gay and lesbian political organization.

NGLTF www.thetaskforce.org The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force is a leading progressive civil rights organization that has supported grassroots organizing since 1973.

The National Coalition for LGBT Youth www.outproud.org A wide range of resources available for youth and educators.

ARTS & MUSIC Capital Pride Band of Columbus 614-325-1590 www.cappride.org A statewide LGBTQ organization of instrumentalists promoting the joy of music, friendship, and personal growth.

They provide a variety of performances each year.

Columbus Gay Men’s Chorus 614-228-2462 www.cgmc.com Singing out since 1990, this chorus presents a series of concerts each year. Open auditions held prior to rehearsal for each show.

Evolution Theatre Company 614-233-1124 www.evolutiontheatre.org A semi-professional theatre company that presents musicals, dramas and comedies that have not been seen in the area before including recent Off-Broadway and Broadway shows as well as new works and world premieres.

Imagine Productions 614-398-1110 www.imaginecolumbus.com A non-profit community theatrical troupe committed to entertaining and educating community stakeholders. They recognize that empowerment and growth occurs for both the audience and performer.

Wexner Center for the Arts 614-292-3535 www.wexarts.org Internationally known contemporary arts center at OSU, offering visual arts, performing arts, film, and educational programs, as well as a store and a café all under one roof in an architectural landmark.

COUNSELING Affirmations 614-445-8277 www.affirmationstherapy.com A center for psychotherapy and growth with a long history of working with LGBTQ clients.

Randi Cohen, LPCC-S 614-267-1993 www.randicohen.com Helping adult clients to create a strong sense of self, learn good communication skills, and gain a clearer sense of how others see you.

Shawn D. King, PhD., LISW 614-655-3554 www.shawnkingphd.com Providing individual, family, and group counseling services to the LGBTQ community. Specializing in relationship issues, anger management and mental health services.

HEALTH & WELLNESS AHF Wellness Center & Out of the Closet Pharmacy: 614-732-5947 Wellness Center: 614-223-1532 www.aidshealth.org The AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) operates Out of the Closet Thrift Store (income offsets medicine costs), a full-service pharmacy, and HIV testing at the corner of N. High and 5th Ave. and they offer a Wellness Center at 815 W. Broad St., Suite 350.

CHOICES 614-224-4663 www.choicescolumbus.org Since 1977 they have provided counseling, shelter, crisis intervention, education and community and legal support and advocacy to central Ohio residents facing domestic violence.

Columbus Public Health LGBTQ Health Initiative HYPERLINK "tel:614-645-1493" \t "_blank" 614-645-1493 www.publichealth.columbus.gov As part of the department’s mission to protect health and improve lives in our community, this initiative offers LGBTQ cultural competency trainings to health care and other service providers. Additionally, their LGBTQ Health Advocate manages a referral system to meet a variety of LGBTQ health needs.

The Crystal Club 614-214-4828 www.thecrystalclub.org A non-profit support group for crossdressers, transsexuals, female impersonators, and other transgender individuals.

Huckleberry House 614-294-5553 www.huckhouse.org Established in 1970 to provide a safe place for runaway youth in Columbus. Today, it provides many programs to help teens all over Franklin County who are in crisis situations, who are homeless or runaways.

NetCare 614-276-CARE www.netcareaccess.org Provides 24 hour mental health and substance abuse crisis intervention, stabilization and assessment for Franklin County residents.

Planned Parenthood of Central Ohio, Inc. 614-224-2235 www.plannedparenthood.org The nation's oldest and largest sexual and reproductive health care organization.

Trevor Project 866-4U-TREVOR www.thetrevorproject.org Determined to end suicide among LGBT youth by providing life-saving and life-affirming resources including our nationwide, 24/7 crisis intervention lifeline.

2013: A Landmark Year Grateful, but still fired up! | TOM GROTE

BY ANY MEASURE, 2013 was a groundbreaking, tipping point year for the LGBTQ community, and for my family in particular.

Our family is grateful that 2013 was a landmark year.

But we are not satisfied and we are not even close to being done.

In January, my husband (it’s official now, as of October, 2013 in Massachusetts) and I along with our two daughters, Amoret (4) and Sophia (1) attended the Inauguration of President Barack Obama. We witnessed his swearing in for his second term as Amoret was climbing a tree and Sophia was all bundled up, trying to stay warm. We felt at home. Many, many folks from the diverse crowd gave us a thumbs up and approving smiles and asked us who did the girls’ hair (Rick of course).

It is still legal to fire and to deny housing to someone just because he or she is or is perceived to be LGBTQ. It is still OK to bully gay kids in far too many schools.

And, of course, our marriage is still not recognized in Ohio, and my husband is still denied being the legal father of our children (even though it is he who does their hair).

And then in April, we were back in DC to attend the annual White House Easter Egg Roll. It is quite a feeling to be welcomed as a family to play Easter games on the White House lawn amongst so many families from all over the country. We were greeted with more smiles and looks of approval.

In June, I sat at my office desk, glued to my computer as I read the blog from the Supreme Court regarding the decisions around the landmark cases on gay marriage.

The decisions and applications of those decisions would prove to be more than many would have ever hoped.

But the affirmation from the highest court in the land was even more meaningful to me. I could not stop crying and had to shut my office door. When I gathered myself, I shared the news with my colleagues, and that evening, our family celebrated at our neighborhood restaurant, Barcelona.

This October, Rick and I took the girls to Boston, where we were finally “legally” married (a little challenging with Sophia running around the clerk’s office getting into everything). We got “church married” in 2007 at First Community United Church of Christ in Marble Cliff in front of 200 friends and relatives. After the Supreme Court’s decisions, we felt that it was important to make our marriage legal. Already this has had real world implications like filing joint tax returns, getting Rick covered on my company’s health insurance plan (we are a small company and plans for companies our size were not allowed to cover unmarried partners), and something as simple, yet significant, as having Rick’s status changed from partner to spouse on the Miami University Foundation Board’s roster.

As 2013 comes to an end, we count our blessings.

We also gather ourselves for the continued work and struggles ahead of us. We do so with many more allies and friends, and certainly with more affirmation and approving smiles! We will have even more to be grateful for in 2014 and for years to come because there is no turning back – as long as we ALL keep up the good fight and demand progress.

Onward and Upward!

This family photo was taken at OSU’s Schottenstein Center in May 2012.

Amoret was three and Sophia was five months old at the time.

See more photos of Tom’s family at:

www.QuorumColumbus.com

Tom Grote is a founder of Equality Ohio. He was the first openly gay member appointed to the Miami University board of trustees and currently serves on the Miami University Foundation board. Tom also serves as a trustee for the United Way of Central Ohio and helped found United Way’s Pride Council, the first United Way LGBT affinity group in the nation. Tom is currently CFO of Green Biologics, a green chemical company based in the United Kingdom. -Prior to Green Biologics, Tom helped expand his family’s pizza company, Donatos Pizza, throughout Ohio and the Midwest.

Tom lives in German Village with his husband and two daughters.

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