CLOWN TIME Drag clown

vol 32, no. 50 Aug. 30, 2017 Dandy Darkly www.WindyCityMediaGroup.com is part of the Fringe Festival Dandy Darkly. AMEYA PAWAR Photo Illustration by Atticus Stevenson PAGE 13 Alderman runs for governor, talks LGBT issues. Photo by Matt Simonette 10 PRIDE OF THE SOUTH RAMONA HERNANDEZ-PEREZ Queer Black/Mexican rabbi shares her views. Beach party Photo from Hernandez-Perez 9 Fahrenheit Chicago heats up the South Side DR. BRANDON HILL Military expert discusses transgender Entertainer Cor.Ece. PAGE 16 service members. 7 Photo from Hill Photo by Vernon Hester

@windycitytimes1 /windycitymediagroup @windycitytimes www.windycitymediagroup.com 2 Aug. 30, 2017 WINDY CITY TIMES Aug. 30, 2017 3 NEWS Researcher alleges false arrest; column 4 Chuck Renslow memorial 5 Trump proceeds with trans military ban 6 Expert talks trans people’s fitness to serve 7 Born This Way Foundation event in Chicago 8 Queer Black/Mexican rabbi shares her views 9 Gubernatorial candidate Ald. Ameya Pawar 10 In the Life: Liam Nolan 11 Viewpoints: Rudolph 12 ENTERTAINMENT/EVENTS INDEX Scottish Play Scott: Fringe element 13

download this issue and browse the archives at www.WindyCityTimes.com Theater reviews 14

CLOWN South Side beach festival 16 TIME Concert review: Lady Gaga 17 Drag clown Dandy Darkly vol 32, no. 50 Aug. 30, 2017 Benefit concert features Kolesov, Pine 18 www.WindyCityMediaGroup.com is part of the Chicago Fringe Auto review: Chevy Trax a smooth drive 19 Festival Dandy Darkly. AMEYA PAWAR Photo Illustration by Atticus Stevenson PAGE 13 NIGHTSPOTS 20 Alderman runs for governor, talks LGBT issues. Photo by Matt Simonette 10 PRIDE OF Classifieds; calendar 22 THE SOUTH RAMONA HERNANDEZ-PEREZ Queer Black/Mexican rabbi shares her views. Beach party Photo from Hernandez-Perez 9 Fahrenheit Chicago heats up the ABOVE: He-Man and Hamlet are fused in The Tragedy of He-Manlet. South Side DR. BRANDON HILL Military expert discusses transgender Entertainer Cor.Ece. PAGE 16 Photo from New Millennium Theatre service members. . 7 Photo from Hill Photo by Vernon Hester

@windycitytimes1 /windycitymediagroup @windycitytimes www.windycitymediagroup.com

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to cyr with love Out puppeteer Emmanuel Cyr is part of the Cirque du Soleil show Luzia. Photo by Jerry Nunn

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ROCK OF RAGES Bent Nights looks at three punk-rock shows that took place recently.

THAT’S SHOW BIZ Find out the latest about Downton Abbey, Stephen Sondheim and Laverne Cox.

Thousands of pop-culture enthusiasts attended Wizard World Comic Con. plus Photo of Wonder Woman print by Andrew Davis

DAILY BREAKING NEWS *MRED MLS, 1/1/16-12/31/16, Chicago, all property types, ranked by total closed volume. 4 Aug. 30, 2017 WINDY CITY TIMES AIDS researcher alleges false arrest, GUEST COLUMN mistreatment by CPD by Nathan Petithomme By Matt Simonette Expanding our definition of Pride? In the city of Philadelphia, black and brown color face higher rates of discrimination and A longtime AIDS researcher and physician is al- stripes were added to a rainbow flag, which are statistically more targeted for hate crimes. leging that the Chicago Police Department (CPD) was the catalyst to the debate of whether or This comes from institutional racism, sexism subjected him to a false-arrest and mistreatment not the Pride Flag should be inclusive of other and transphobia that bars trans people from while in custody. marginalized identities than being restricted to having access to appropriate healthcare, job David Ostrow, MD, was arrested Aug. 21 at 1:45 only sexualities. stability and legal protections and rights when p.m. while he was dining outside Little Wok, 3144 The question of whether the Pride flag should it comes to affordable housing. N. Broadway. According to a CPD spokesperson, be more inclusive of marginalized identities or Despite these statistics, we frequently see Ostrow was arrested and charged with retail theft look through an intersectional lens shouldn’t that people regard LGBTQ+ rights as a white, of display merchandise worth less than $300. even be a question. To be honest, just adding middle-class issue. We see that representation But Ostrow told Windy City Times that the inci- the black and brown stripes to the flag isn’t of LGBTQ+ peoples in the media are white, cis- dent stemmed from problems with an “unstable” enough! Rather than just claiming that the gender men, which does not accurately show person working at a nearby AT&T store. That per- Pride flag only represents unity and strength the diversity of the community. son alleged that Ostrow had stolen a Galaxy S8 for LGBTQ+ peoples, we should reimagine our However in reality, we see over half of the phone from a display the day before and notified definition of Pride and look through an inter- African-American male population with HIV police when they saw him pass by. sectional lens. identify as gay or bisexual, we see the hard- Ostrow said he had been to the store “two or During the civil-rights movement, Black ships transgender women of color face, and three times in the last several months” regarding even in Chicago, Pride is a billing dispute with his U-verse and Direct TV usually on the North Side accounts, but denied taking the phone. He said in a predominately white that he uses a Galaxy S6e, which he showed to Dr. David Ostrow. “Pride is when you can come out to neighborhood. police during his arrest. Photo from Chicago Police Department Chicago Gay Prom for He added, “[Police] said they wanted me to yourself and love yourself for who you high school students is was not among his belongings when they were step outside the restaurant [area] so there would usually not hosted on returned. are, and not self-loathe or wish you were not be a public scene, but they proceeded to the South Side of Chi- When Ostrow mentioned the missing necklace, search and handcuff me right there.” another identity other than yourself.” cago, where many Black “They told me, ‘You can bring it up at your court Ostrow was taken first to the 19th District Town and brown students go to date,’ which is just ridiculous.” Hall police headquarters near Addison and Halst- school. Ostrow also said that he heard officers mak- ed Streets, then moved to District 3 headquarters We have to think of pride ing a number of racist and homophobic remarks at Belmont and Western Avenues. He alleges that Pride was rampant. Black Pride included Afri- being able to be applied for different identities while at the 19th District station. He has filed he was not given a phone call and was denied can American leaders, such as Stokely Carmi- and how pride cannot be color-blind. a complaint with the Independent Police Review water, despite having a chronic medical condition chael—who embraced and celebrated their We can all agree that pride is a symbol of Authority. The court date for his case will be Oct. requiring it. heritage from wearing more ethnic clothing acceptance of one’s self and community. 19. “I felt somewhat dehumanized,” Ostrow said and singing songs that empowered the race. Pride is when you can come out to yourself CPD confirmed Ostrow’s arrest but had no com- of the experience, adding that a valued necklace Also, the slogan—Black is Beautiful—con- and love yourself for who you are, and not self- ment on the specifics of his case. that he was wearing at the time of his arrest fronted white beauty standards, and encour- loathe or wish you were another identity other aged African American women to wear their than yourself. Pride should not be confined to natural hair. Now, how is this different than your gender identity, your sexual orientation, Pennycuff apartments TPAN 30th-anniv. the pride LGBTQ+ people fought for? or the color of your skin. The Stonewall movement is the most high- Gilbert Baker, creator of the Pride Flag, said part of short event Sept. 28 lighted beginning of the LGBTQ+ rights move- it best, “The flag is an action—it’s more than By Matt Simonette Test Positive Aware Network (TPAN) will com- ment. There were queer and transgender indi- just the cloth and the stripes. When a person memorate its 30th anniversary with a celebration viduals who were at the , a gay puts the Rainbow Flag on his car or his house, An upcoming LGBT-friendly housing project takes event on Thursday, Sept. 28. “TPAN 30 Years of club. At 3 a.m. police began to raid the gay bar, they’re not just flying a flag. They’re taking ac- center stage in a new short film submitted as part Hope” will be held at Moonlight Studios, 1446 but, this time, bar goers and patrons fought tion.” of an architectural-themed film contest. W. Kinzie St. back against the police, which was the catalyst The action that Baker speaks of is action The three-minute film, entitled John Penny- The event will begin with a VIP reception at to a week of demonstrations and marches that against a homogeneous society that does not cuff, focuses on the creation of the John Pen- 6-7 p.m., allowing supporters to meet and greet sparked the movement. praise or embrace diversity. Instead of letting nycuff Memorial Apartments at Castillo Plaza, a with TPAN’s founding members. The general re- What’s sometimes not told about Stonewall a symbol of pride, unity, and strength divide Logan Square development set to open in 2019. ception will begin at 7 p.m. and feature a tribute are the stories of Black and Latino people who us, let it unite us and represent us to create Named after the late activist John Pennycuff and to TPAN’s founders, an open bar, hors d’oeuvres frequented the bar, notably two transgender a better world. Therefore, we should embrace his husband, Robert Castillo, the complex was ap- and music from Marc “DJ Moose” Moder. women of color—Marsha P. Johnson and Sylvia a more inclusive Pride Flag that is explicitly proved by the in July. Peter Staley—an early member of ACT UP, the Rivera, who were among the first to fight back. intentional of empowering marginalized com- The film features interviews with Castillo; Ald. New York-based direct-action activism group— Looking from an intersectional lens of race munities by accepting intersectionality. Proco Joe Moreno (1st Ward), who shepherded will address the crowd. Staley was featured prom- and gender identity, transgender women of the project; and the building’s principal design- inently in the 2012 Oscar-nominated documen- ers. It was submitted as part of the I Look Up tary How to Survive a Plague. Nathan Petithomme is a high school senior at Lindblom Math and Science Academy. He is Film Challenge, an online contest highlighting Admission is $125-$175 each; visit http:// active in social justice and community activism and aspires to be in the education field and about architectural projects that improve tpan.com/tickets. politics. their communities. The film is at http://bit.ly/2xaAzBP. WINDY CITY TIMES Aug. 30, 2017 5 Chuck Renslow sent off in style at memorial Longtime Chicago businessman, activist and Hundreds of people packed into the Metro for philanthropist Chuck Renslow was remembered the memories of Renslow and then they danced during a spirited, musical and photo-filled memo- the way Renslow would have wanted them to, rial Aug. 27 at the Metro, the location of one of wearing mostly white for this final White Party Renslow’s many businesses over the years, Center (what had been an annual tribute Renslow start- Stage. ed in the late 1970s) and enjoying male dancers Among those addressing the crowd were long- on stage and heavy beats under their feet. time gay activist Gary Chichester, former Chicago Renslow, 87, a longtime pillar of the LGBTQ Ald. Cliff Kelley, Ald. , U.S. Rep. Mike community in Chicago and around the world, died Quigley, former bar owner Marge Summit, retired after multiple long-term health issues June 29. Clockwise from above: Ron Ehemann speaks on judge Tom Chiola, Windy City Times Publisher Renslow reigned over a seven-decade empire, behalf of the Renslow Family; Renslow’s leather vest Tracy Baim, and Renslow’s partner, Ron Ehemann, starting more than two dozen businesses—bars, was part of a display; Sammulous from America’s who spoke on behalf of the Renslow family. discos, photo studios, health clubs, bathhouses, Got Talent, singing Sylvester songs; Marge Summit Tunney read a resolution that had passed unan- gay magazines and newspapers, hotels, restau- (left) and Janan Lindley; the sign outside of Metro. imously in Chicago’s City Council, paying tribute rants and bookstores. He fostered organizations Photos by Tracy Baim to Renslow and all of his businesses and com- and dealt with mafia and police payoffs, the munity work. At times, Tunney laughed, thinking Chicago Machine, anti-gay government policies, how interesting it was to read some of the de- and controversy within the gay community. He tails of Renslow’s colorful life in front of the City co-founded International Mr. Leather, the Leather Council. Quigley plans to pay tribute to Renslow Archives & Museum, and many more groups and in Congress. businesses. The evening was punctuated by beautiful photo See full story on his life here: http://www. and video tributes, lovingly edited by Christina windycitymediagroup.com/lgbt/Legendary- Court and Jeffrey Roscoe, with DJ Jeff Berry, vi- Chicago-businessman-activist-Chuck-Renslow- sual orchestration by T.L. Noble, a musical perfor- dies-/59676.html . mance by Sammulous from America’s Got Talent The online version of this story has videos from singing Sylvester songs, producer Gary Chichester the memorial. and stage manager Dean Ogren. CELEBRATE THE PRIDE WITH A NEW RIDE!

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Medical Cannabis Dispensary richard fi sher dealerships 6 Aug. 30, 2017 WINDY CITY TIMES policy aiming to purge the military of thousands of transgender men and women,” Broadway-Mack It’s official: Trump said in a statement. “We unequivocally condemn this ban as an unpatriotic attack on currently serving troops and qualified transgender recruits directs Pentagon to who want to serve their country.” Attorneys for National Center for Lesbian Rights and GLBTQ Legal Advocates & Defenders, which enact trans military ban had already filed a lawsuit against Trump ahead of the guidance, said their current litigation will CHRIS JOHNSON, means dependents of U.S. service members are stop the ban. WASHINGTON BLADE also ineligible for U.S. government funds for gen- “This policy is a shameful slap in the face to der reassignment surgery. people who put their lives on the line everyday Nearly one month after announcing via The memo also instructs the Pentagon to pre- to defend our country,” said Jennifer Levi, GLAD he’d ban transgender people from U.S. military, pare by Feb. 21 an implementation plan for the Transgender Rights Project Director. “Our military President Donald Trump made good on his prom- instituting policies aimed at blocking transgen- is strongest when all people who are fit to serve ise in a memo to the Pentagon Aug. 25 enact- der people from open service. have the opportunity to do so. This unprecedent- ing a ban on their service—although the fate of With respect to transgender people who began ed policy amounts to a purge of qualified, con- transgender people currently in the armed forces serving openly in the military after the Obama- tributing troops, and will serve only to undermine remains to be seen. era change, the memo gives significantly leeway unit cohesion and weaken military readiness.” In a memo to the Pentagon and Department of to the Pentagon and the Department of Home- House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi (D-Cali- Homeland Security dated Aug. 25, Trump asserted land Security, which operates the Coast Guard. An fornia) also condemned the policy change in a the Obama administration “failed to identify a estimated 15,000 transgender people currently statement, insisting the transgender ban is based sufficient basis” to end the ban on transgender serve in the U.S. armed forces, according to the U.S. House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi. on “prejudice, not the national defense.” military service in June 2016 and directs the U.S. Williams Institute at the University of , Official head shot “A study commissioned by the Department of military to put the prohibition back in place. Los Angeles. Defense itself found that the cost of providing “I am directing the Secretary of Defense, and “As part of the implementation plan, the Sec- U.S. military, Thorn said a joint lawsuit is forth- medically necessary care for transgender troops the Secretary of Homeland Security with respect retary of Defense, in consultation with the Sec- coming from his organization and the LGBT legal would be miniscule,” Pelosi said. “In fact, every to the U.S. Coast Guard, to return to the long- retary of Homeland Security, shall determine how group . year, the Pentagon spends five times more on Vi- standing policy and practice on military service to address transgender individuals currently serv- Ashley Broadway-Mack, president of the Ameri- agra than they would for transition-related care. by transgender individuals that was in place prior ing in the military,” the memo says. can Military Partner Association, called on Con- The President of the United States should have to June 2016 until such time as a sufficient ba- The White House was expected to do so by the gress or the courts to take action to reverse more respect for the transgend sis exists upon which to conclude that terminat- end of last week. A senior White House official, Trump’s policy. This article is from the Washington Blade, ing that policy and practice would not have the on Aug. 23, told the Los Angeles Blade the policy “This horrifying, vicious assault on thousands as part of the National LGBT Newspaper As- negative effects discussed above,” Trump wrote. would be made final and sent to Pentagon before of actively serving troops has turned from reck- sociation. Citing dubious concerns openly transgender Trump left for Camp David over the weekend. less tweets into an unabashedly discriminatory service will have negative impact on military ef- Dana White, assistant for public affairs to the fectiveness and lethality as well as unit cohe- secretary of defense, affirmed the Pentagon had The lawsuit is Karnoski v. Trump. It is at sion, Trump concludes “further study is needed received the memo, but withheld further com- Pro-LGBT groups https://www.lambdalegal.org/in-court/legal- to ensure that continued implementation of last ment. docs/karnoski_us_20170828_complaint. year’s policy change would not have those nega- “The Department of Defense has received for- sue Trump over On Aug. 28, the American Civil Liberties tive effects.” mal guidance from the White House in reference Union also announced it is suing Trump over Under the Obama administration, former De- to transgender personnel serving in the military,” military-service ban his directive. “BREAKING: We’re taking @real- fense Secretary Ashton Carter lifted the long- White said. “More information will be forth com- On Aug. 28, Lambda Legal and OutServe- DonaldTrump to court to challenge the uncon- standing medical regulation barring transgender ing.” SLDN filed a federal lawsuit in the U.S. District stitutional transgender military ban,” the ACLU people serving in the armed forces. The guidance The Department of Homeland Security didn’t Court for the Western District of Washington posted on Twitter. from the White House effectively reverses that immediately respond late Friday to confirm it had challenging the constitutionality of the Trump decision. received the memo or lay out its implementation administration’s ban on military service by The Trump memo has two major components. plan for the Coast Guard. transgender individuals. Creator of The first continues the Pentagon practice of bar- Transgender rights advocates blasted Trump for The suit was filed on behalf of two individu- ring openly transgender people from enlisting in instituting the memo, pledging to fight the ban als who seek to join the military; one current transgender the armed forces. Although the Obama change on transgender military service in court. service member who seeks appointment as an allowed transgender people to come out in the Matt Thorn, executive director of the LGBT mili- officer; the Human Rights Campaign (HRC); and symbol dies at 66 military without fear of discharge, it delayed tary group OutServe-SLDN, said in a statement Gender Justice League, a gender and sexuality Transgender pioneer Holly Boswell—best transgender accession until a later time. That the policy change against transgender service civil and human rights organization headquar- known for creating the transgender symbol— delay—already extended by Defense Secretary amounts to “nothing less than a purge” from tered in Seattle. died recently in Asheville, North Carolina, at James Mattis to continue until 2018—will now Trump. On July 26, President Trump posted a series age 66, according to a NewNowNext.com item. be continued indefinitely. “He is implementing this purge based on big- of tweets in the early morning hours announc- Boswell went by both male and female pro- The second part of the memo bars U.S. govern- otry, motivated by agents of an ideology that ing that, “The United States Government will nouns at the end of her life, and was a promi- ment resources “to fund sex reassignment surgi- has no concern for the national defense, and in not accept or allow transgender individuals to nent activist, writer and leader in the early cal procedures for military personnel” except in blatant disregard of the experience of career of- serve in any capacity in the U.S. Military.” On days of the transgender equality movement. case wheres the procedure is necessary to protect ficers who spent more than a year developing and Aug. 25, Trump sent a formal issuance of direc- She is also credited with designing one the health of an individual already undergoing implementing the current policy,” Thorn said. tions to military authorities. of the first symbols at the start of the trans transition. The memo gives the Pentagon until Denying “a man with a demonstrated incompe- The Lambda Legal attorneys working on movement, back in the early 1990s. In 1986, March 23 to implement this change. tence in managing the small staff of the White the case are Renn, Jon W. Davidson, Camilla Boswell co-founded Asheville’s Phoenix Trans- It’s not immediately clear whether this policy House should have any credibility” in leading the B. Taylor, Tara Borelli, Natalie Nardecchia, Sa- gender Support Group, one of the earliest or- sha Buchert, Kara Ingelhart and Carl Charles. ganizations to welcome people of all gender They are joined by co-counsel Peter Perkowski identities. @windycitytimes1 /windycitymediagroup of OutServe-SLDN. Also on the legal team are The NewNowNext.com item is at http://www. pro-bono co-counsel at Kirkland & Ellis LLP and newnownext.com/holly-boswell-creator-of- @windycitytimes www.windycitymediagroup.com Newman Du Wors LLP. transgender-symbol-obituary/08/2017/. WINDY CITY TIMES Aug. 30, 2017 7 Military expert talks about fitness of trans members to serve By Molly Sprayregen that, like many service members, most enlist based on military recruitment campaigns that On July 26, Donald Trump released a series of promise perks like exploring the world. “We didn’t tweets declaring his decision to ban transgender see anyone looking to get medical expenses cov- service members from the U.S. military, blaming ered, and it wouldn’t explain the over 100,000 the supposed exorbitant healthcare costs trans veterans that have already served that had no service members would bring. The military an- access to trans medical services.” Beyond that, a nounced it wouldn’t take action unless there is study released by the Rand Corporation in 2016 Dr. Brandon Hill. official policy change, but the tweets reignited a found that trans healthcare would only increase Photo courtesy of Hill rigorous debate surrounding trans service mem- the military budget by a maximum of 0.13 per- bers’ motivation and fitness to serve. (Editor’s cent. rently serving. “You’re going to cut your military hundreds of thousands of trans people serve in note: Trump has since moved forward, signing a The military was set to lift the ban on trans en- by 15,000—and at varying ranks?,” Hill asked. our military already, so there’s no banning the directive banning transgender military recruits listment on July 1, but Defense Secretary James “We interviewed people who were all the way up people who have already served, and everyone, and potentially banning those who already serve.) Mattis delayed doing so for six months, claiming to commander. We’re not just talking about entry- including the President himself and everyone in Those who are in favor of a ban on trans service more needed to be done to assess whether lifting level soldiers. These are life, career military trans his administration, has benefitted from transgen- members, however, would be hard pressed to find the ban would impede military readiness. Hill has folks, so you’re going to lose that level of intel- der military service, whether it was open or not … any empirical research to support their ideas. Ac- also been working to debunk this military readi- ligence, experience, expertise. It makes no sense, and to turn your back on the group [from whom] cording to Brandon Hill, a leading researcher in ness argument, which has been used time and it’s damaging, you’re hurting your own military you’ve gained safety and protection for the coun- trans military service and the executive director again to discriminate against women and minori- and the real question is for what gain?” try that you’re leading is pretty discrediting, and of the University of Chicago Center for Interdis- ties. Soon, Hill will testify at a hearing held by the that I would say to anyone, but I definitely would ciplinary Inquiry and Innovation in Sexual and The idea is that people will become distracted Chicago City Council to determine whether the say that to the administration because I think Reproductive Health, the data on trans service if forced to serve beside anyone who makes them city will pass a resolution that supports trans it’s offensive. You can’t try to get rid of a group members overwhelmingly suggest they are as fit uncomfortable. “There has been no data to sup- military service. that has historically been there and say that they to serve as anybody else. port that. At all,” Hill emphasized. On the con- When asked what he’d say to someone who didn’t contribute to your protection.” Hill worked on a study, Fit to Serve?, published trary, he believes forcing trans service members opposes lifting the ban, Hill said, “We have had in Transgender Health in January 2016, that as- to remain in the closet and deal with the distress sessed the fitness of 55 trans active duty service of concealing their identities would impede mili- members (ADSM). The study found that trans tary readiness far more than cis and openly trans ADSM experience the same mental and physical people serving side by side. health concerns as those who are cisgender. Hill The military, Hill explained, is wildly different explained that many of the studies on trans ser- from the civilian world in that the comfort of the vice members have focused on veterans, which service members is more or less irrelevant. If a he feels is not sufficient to determine fitness policy is made, it is followed, regardless of per- at time of service. Thus, studies like his, which sonal feelings or beliefs. “It’s not to say [new found that the mental and physical health of policies and trainings] erase any kind of trans- trans ADSM differ widely from that of veterans, phobia or potential discrimination,” Hill said, are vital to this debate. “But they really set a policy that it won’t be Hill’s study and about 20 others from the past tolerated that is universally accepted by service few years have all drawn the same conclusions, members, at least while in service.” the professor stated. Hill said the Rand Corpora- Before deciding to eventually lift the ban, the tion conducted an assessment of all recent stud- military conducted a 180-day assessment to see ies and found no reason to prevent trans people whether open service for trans people would be from serving. feasible and concluded it is. Thus, the military “I’m not surprised that the administration has worked diligently over the past year to make didn’t use the fitness argument,” Hill said, “be- policies and hold trainings that make open trans 13–17 SEPTEMBER 2017 cause its been shown that fitness is not the is- service a reality, and Hill questions how a rever- sue—that even having a gender identity disor- sal of this policy will play out. “You just don’t der category or gender dysphoria diagnosis isn’t flip a switch on and off. … You have to figure CHICAGO | NAVY PIER exclusionary. Fitness is based on other mental out, what do we do with this information that health assessments, physical endurance, all of we’ve gotten over the year? Are you going to expochicago.com those things.” start discharging people or are you not? On what Hill is also working on a paper that discred- grounds would they be discharged? Is it honor- Presenting Sponsor its the idea that trans people enlist solely for able, dishonorable? All those things have to be

worked out. You can’t just say no more ban, ban free healthcare. “We had an operating hypothesis L b

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e s requirements of the military would probably out- Because the ban is currently in a transition i c h a ( L weigh people who are just doing this to get some period, openly trans people cannot enlist, but a k t z e M i c h g kind of coverage.” those already serving may do so openly. If the Off-site Exhibition 16 Sept – 7 Jan 2018 12 Sept – 29 Oct 2017 Hill and his team assessed enlistment motiva- ban is reinstated, it’s hard to say what will hap- a n ) tions of transgender service members and found pen to the estimated 15,000 trans people cur-

8 Aug. 30, 2017 WINDY CITY TIMES homeless youth,” she said. youth in attendance at the event was the pres- Also in attendance were 44th Ward Ald. Tom ence of Cynthia Germanotta, or “Mama Gaga,” as Tunney and his director of community affairs, some fondly called her. Germanotta took a tour of Chris Jessup, who previously worked with Shay on The Crib, led by Shay, took photos with those who a job readiness program that helped her get hired wanted to, and helped distribute the backpacks. at Lake View’s new Target. “We clicked submit for “I’m just overwhelmed seeing this incredibly her application and she got a call from Target brave group of young people and seeing this 30 minutes later,” he said, and later added, “I’m wonderful space that’s been created in the com- really impressed with how bright she is and she munity for them,” Germanotta said, “It’s one does a lot, she doesn’t stop, she’s a hard worker, thing to hear about this in communities but so I’m proud of her.” when you actually see what’s happening you re- Tunney also expressed his gratitude for the alize what people are going through, and I would Born This Way Foundation. “One of the things we encourage everybody to go visit a place like this try to do more and more, whether it’s the Cubs and see the hope that it brings.” Charities or any businesses is to make sure that During Germanotta’s tour of The Crib, Shay ex- they are not only employing from the community plained how the residents make daily statements but also giving back, so it’s great that with the of gratitude to remember what they have and are concert weekend and Lady Gaga specifically, our thankful for. Before she left, Cynthia facilitated hero, that part of her being here is this Founda- a statements of gratitude circle with the youth. tion award.” Not surprisingly, on this beautiful summer day, The Born this Way Foundation’s Channel Kind- several of them were thankful for Shay. ness Awards, in partnership with the organiza- Born This Way Foundation Executive Director Night Ministry ED Paul Haman (from left), Shay, Cynthia Germanotta and Born This Way Foundation tion Peace First, launched along with Lady Gaga’s Maya Enista Smith and The Night Ministry Execu- ED Maya Enista Smith. Joanne World Tour and are awarding youth like tive Director Paul Hamann also addressed the at- Photo by Tracy Baim Shay in eight cities around the country. tendees and media. One very exciting element for many of the

Lady Gaga foundation “We’ve joined the ranks of a growing num- Gov. Rauner signs ber of the growing number of states and the District of Columbia that have eliminated their presents award to gender-marker, anti- outmoded and unnecessary surgical require- panic defense bills ment … Doing so makes a better place By Matt Simonette for all of us, since every one of us benefits from Night Ministry youth living in a state that celebrates and protects its

vulnerable citizens,” he added. by Molly Sprayregen Held outside The Crib on Friday morning, Aug. Gov. Bruce Rauner, on Aug. 25, signed legis- 25, the event was a moving experience, one in lation into law both allowing transgender Il- CEO Brian Johnson said, “With the simple act of of bringing Illinois law In conjunction with her concert at Wrigley Field which Shay was continuously celebrated for her linois residents to change the gender-markers up to date with modern medical standards, the on Friday, Lady Gaga’s Born This Way Foundation, ability to not only spread kindness in the face of on state identification cards more easily and lives of transgender and intersex people have founded by Gaga and her mother, Cynthia Ger- extreme adversity but also, despite the fact that prohibiting so-called “gay-panic” and “trans- become meaningfully better.” manotta, bestowed the organization’s Channel she has experienced homelessness and abuse, her panic” defenses in murder cases. Illinois also now becomes the second state Kindness Award on Chicago youth Shay Johnson, capacity to be grateful for what she has. HB 1785, sponsored in the House by state in the union, after California, to prohibit a 20. “This is a dream come true to me,” Shay said Rep. Greg Harris (D-Chicago) and in the Sen- “gay panic” or “trans panic” defense in murder Shay, formerly homeless and a previous resi- as more and more youth continued to arrive to ate by state Sen. Toi Hutchinson (D-Chicago), cases, thanks to the signing of SB 1761, spon- dent of the Night Ministry’s Crib shelter, won the enjoy what Shay had planned for them. It was allows transgender and intersex residents to sored in the Senate by state Sen. award based on her proposal to host a BBQ for an emotional day for Shay, with tears regularly change the gender-marker on their identifica- (D-Evanston) and in the House by state Rep. youth experiencing homelessness in Chicago as streaming from her eyes as community leaders tion with a physician’s note indicating that Litesa Wallace (D-Rockford). well as distribute backpacks filled with hygiene and youths spoke about her contributions. “I get they are undergoing medical care related to In a previous interview with Windy City products, donated by Staples for Students, to to actually do something that I really want to do, their transition. The previous rule required Times, Biss explained why such a law was need- those who attended. which is give back to my community and help the proof that the individual had had gender-re- assignment surgery, an option that some indi- ed. “It’s going to sound crazy, but it’s true that viduals are unable or unwilling to choose. right now the law doesn’t stop someone from In a statement, Harris said, “I’m proud to murdering someone because they discovered be part of a team in Illinois that is expand- that the [victim] was gay, and using the fact ing equality and fairness for all our citizens. that the victim was gay as a defense in a court Especially in a time when so many are trying to of law,” he said. roll back legal protections and foster intoler- Christopher Clark, Lambda Legal’s midwest ance and hate, it is important that we stand regional director, added, “’Gay panic’ and ‘trans together.” panic’ defenses rely on anti-LGBT bias and re- Hutchinson added, “Transgender and intersex inforce it, perpetuating a vicious cycle of vio- persons deserve to live their lives with dignity lence against our communities. LGBT people, and safety, consistent with their gender identi- especially transgender women of color, are ty. It is an honor to have worked with so many more likely to be victims of violent crime. We others to have pass this legislation, especially look to courts for justice, not to put victims as we see other states and the White House on trial. We hope that other states will take attempt to enshrine discrimination based on Illinois’ example and do the same.” gender identity into law.” Earlier in the week, Rauner signed legisla- Several advocates praised the new law. John tion, also sponsored in the House by Harris, Knight, director of ACLU Illinois’ LGBT and HIV regarding spousal annuity payment eligibility Project, called it a “huge breakthrough” for the for LGBT public employees. Cynthia Germanotta and Shay Johnson in front of The Crib’s agreement signage. state. Photo by Tracy Baim WINDY CITY TIMES Aug. 30, 2017 9 ism, about Torah,” she added. “I don’t prophesize anything.” Howard Brown Queer Black-Mexican Hernandez-Perez practices the type of Judaism elects new board known as flexidox. When asked what she likes about the Torah in particular, Hernandez-Perez leadership brings up The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy. has announced new rabbi shares her “I tell people that the Torah is the original board leadership for 2017-18 with Mario Treto Jr., Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy,” she said. As far legal counsel for the City of Evanston, elected as knowledge and wisdom, she explained, all the chair of its board of directors. teachings are right there in Torah. Joining Treto are Executive Vice Chair Bethany unique point of view Hernandez-Perez said she is from the same line Pagels-Minor of Cars.com, Treasurer Mark Hawkins By Melissa Wasserman of rabbis which goes back to Rabbi Arnold Ford of Columbia University in and Sec- and Rabbi Wentworth Matthew and many other retary N. Charles Thomas of Northwestern Univer- Ramona Hernandez-Perez is a queer, female rabbis of the African diaspora. sity. Black-Mexican rabbi with stories to tell. Hernandez-Perez made special mention of a Officers at-large include Emily Byrne-Driver of Hernandez-Perez is in her 60s and is a third- prayer titled “Thy Brilliance” from Daily Word, a Elegant Custom Drapery, Becky Rowland of City of generation Chicago native. She was transgender unity publication. Adopting the prayer, she said Milwaukee Health Department and Fawna Stock- and is now female, explaining while there is she continues to use it and it has helped her well of Upswing Advocates. nothing wrong with being transgender, to her it through some difficult times. She literally carries Duke Alden, JD, of Aon Corporation—who pre- means from one person to the next. Her transi- it around with her most of the time. viously chaired the board since 2012—has as- tion, as she described, has passed. Columbia College’s Doc Unit produced a new sumed the role of immediate past chair. “I don’t want to be a third gender,” said Her- documentary of Hernandez-Perez and her story. Alden noted the significance of transferring nandez-Perez. “I want to be female, period. I’m Describing the video of her experiences and be- leadership to Treto, 32, who is Howard Brown’s me.” liefs, she said she participated to maybe help first chair of Latinx decent and only the second Mainly raised by her grandparents, Hernandez- somebody needing a spiritual word. person of color to assume the helm of the board. Perez said her family was not religious when she “I’m a very private person,” said Hernandez- The board of directors also recently elected was growing up. Perez. “I don’t seek publicity and I’m at this Austin Baidas, former senior advisor in the “I always wrestled with what was being told; point of being 66 years old where I need to U.S. Department of Transportation, as its new- wrestled with knowledge and truth; wrestled with get information out there and maybe I can help est member. A full list of Board members is at the social injustice,” said Hernandez-Perez. somebody whether they’re a Jew or not, but help https://howardbrown.org/board-members/. “When you begin to find that these things someone who’s struggling.” come natural to you or that you have a love for To learn more about Hernandez-Perez, visit: it, then it just happens,” said Hernandez-Perez of https://vimeo.com/215247261. finding a love for religion. “Baruch Hashem. Be a decent human being. Tikkun Olam [a Jewish con- cept, meaning to repair the world through acts of kindness]. Be that light, help to heal the world, whatever you are, whether you’re a journalist, a musician, an entertainer, whatever you are, you COmmemOraTING 30 years OF hOpe can be who you want to be and still be decent.” Ramona Hernandez-Perez. Hernandez-Perez grew up in the civil-rights Photo from Hernandez-Perez movement with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., liv- ing around the corner when he had an apartment on Chicago’s West Side. She recalls getting in- Windy City Times and Chicago Defender. After volved by going to King’s rallies in Chicago and her time in college, where she won awards for participating with the urban aspect of Southern photography, she secured a photography intern- Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC). Through ship at the Detroit Free Press. Her photography experience also reaches to projects for various or- that, when she was in high school, she stood as YEARS one of the leaders of the Coalition of High School ganizations she became connected with through Students, boycotting for better conditions. the civil-rights movement, including the Chicago When it comes to taking action on her beliefs, Urban League and PR firms. Hernandez-Perez credits the spark of Tikkun Olam. Her work as a rabbi now is accomplished “I don’t think I was ever not involved,” she through a mission she started called Abyssinian said. “It’s just the right thing to do.” Reform Hebrew Congregations. While Hernandez-Perez is retired now. She “My whole thing is I’d like to make a differ- served four years in the Navy, stationed in New ence in my [own] way,” said Hernandez-Perez. York and during that time, went to naval legal She explained that she gauges a difference as be- TPAN was founded in 1987 as Chicago’s grassroots response at justice school in Newport, Rhode Island. For ing able to impress knowledge upon people when more than 15 years she worked at University speaking in conversation. In turn, she values the height of the AIDS epidemic. On Thursday, September 28, 2017, of Illinois at Chicago as a monographic copy someone saying something that makes her want a group of TPAN’s surviving founding members will be honored in cataloger, while also a part of women’s minyan to think about being a better person, doing the an evening commemorating the work of the organization they started. right thing or helping someone else. at UIC’s Hillel House, where she first came out. Thursday, sepTember 28, 2017 She left UIC for a six-month study in Jerusalem She also has a love of music, “anything from 1446 W. Kinzie Street, Chicago through a joint effort by the Leo Baeck Institue James Taylor to Sun Ra.” She even played the Moonlight Studios and Hebrew Union College. She holds certificates congas in a band called The Four Dukes, along VIP Reception at 6 p.m. Doors open at 7 p.m. in Jewish spiritual healing, is a para-chaplain with playing for several other Jazz bands at vari- Light hors d’oeuvres • Open bar and was ordained by Universal Ministries. When ous events in Chicago and Detroit. VIP $175 • General Admission $125 she returned from Israel, she went on to work for “I’m not one of anything,” said Hernandez- about 12 years at Northwestern University as a Perez. “I’m a bunch of all kinds of things.” GeT yOuR TIckeTS NOw: bibliographic editor. “My mission is more toward non-Jews in the tpan.com/tickets She has also held freelance jobs for Ebony, Jet, sense that I try to educate people about Juda- 10 Aug. 30, 2017 WINDY CITY TIMES ELECTIONS 2018: tries were leaving Black and Brown communities, GOVERNOR poverty rates went up, and our crack and cocaine epidemic moved in. The response was not invest- ment for new jobs or treatment, the response was a racist one. Pawar discusses Now those jobs are leaving white communities, and we have the same issues: poverty went up, and we have opiates. Today, we call it a public- health issue and we want to provide treatment. ‘outsider’ status, It’s always been a public-health issue. What un- dergirds all of this is economics, economic de- velopment and jobs. I’m not saying we’ll ignore LGBT issues institutional racism or our racist past—we’ll take that head-on—but going forward, we have to BY MATT SIMONETTE the day when it comes to the city council, but bring poor white, Black and Brown people to- I can transcend that when I work with people. gether and create jobs, and invest in schools and Ald. Ameya Pawar (47th Ward) believes that— It’s that same kind of approach that we need in working families with childcare. Simply put, in- should he be elected governor in 2018—he’ll be Springfield. vest in people. able to leverage his outsider status to transcend WCT: Gov. Rauner came in as an “outsider” WCT: How would you address the state’s machine politics and work for positive change for to Springfield, to shake things up, and he has seemingly perpetual budget issues? every corner of the state. had a difficult time with the entrenched ma- AP: We live in a wealthy state. Our economy Pawar, who previously worked extensively in chine there. How would you transcend that? is the fifth largest in the country. We’re dead the emergency management field, was elected to AP: The thing about Gov. Rauner is that, he last in public-schools spending. We’re dead last the Chicago City Council in 2011 and re-elected goes around to white communities and tells them in social-services spending. We have the money, to a second term in 2015. He is both the first that they’re having troubles because “those peo- Ald. Ameya Pawar. we just don’t have the political will to tax the Indian American and the first Asian American to ple in Cook County” are not giving them their Photo by Matt Simonette wealthy; they need to pay their fair share. It lit- hold a post on the council. fair share. So, he uses the anxieties of poor erally comes down to more money, dollars and Pawar recently spoke with Windy City Times white people and pits them against poor Black time in the red parts of the state. While we’re a cents. about why he’s running, what needs work in the and Brown people. Then nothing at the top ever “blue” state, most of the state is red. I think it’s WCT: What kind of engagement have you had state, and the LGBT community, among other is- changes. time to engage voters of all political persuasions, with the LGBT community? sues. Gov. Rauner is an outsider in the sense that to show the iniquities that affect all of us. I’m AP: I’ve always been a big supporter of the Cen- Windy City Times: What would you draw from he lives so far “above” government, he doesn’t scrapping the standard Democratic playbook, and ter on Halsted. More importantly, I think I’ve al- your experiences on the city council, and your need it, so he demonizes it and wants to destroy not just focusing on Cook County and Chicago. ways been out there saying that it’s a shame that experiences before that, in the governor’s of- it. The thing about being an outsider is, yeah, I I’m saying that there is a common humanity we’re even having to talk about LGBTQ rights, as fice? was one too, but I’ve also proven that by working here—we’re neighbors, whether you live in Cairo, if they apply to a different class of people, as Ameya Pawar: One thing that I’ve proven, in with people, you can make change. Because you Carbondale, Chicago or Rockford. We rise and fall if somehow they are not human. With regards my time on the city council, is that as a total need votes to move things. Demonizing people, together. That message of unity, in response to to Donald Trump [and his transgender military- outsider who no one endorsed or helped, and ran not engaging them in diplomatic efforts, not Gov. Rauner’s agenda of race-baiting and bigotry, service ban], trans rights are human rights. The a grassroots campaign, that I could come into of- working across the aisle—that’s not democracy, is the best response. idea that we would ban our trans neighbors from fice and work with the same people who worked that’s a dictatorship. In a democracy, it’s about WCT: What feedback are you getting in those service is inhumane. I was one of the sponsors on against me. The whole point of democracy is to the art of the possible. red parts of the state? the legislation in city council to make sure that bring people along so that you can deal with WCT: What do you think will be your biggest AP: The same things I hear in the liberal parts we had equal access to bathrooms. each other, and not demonizing each other when advantage in the primary contest? of the state—that the millionaires and billion- My point is, I believe in an equal and inclusive it comes to the issues. I’ve passed a dozen pieces AP: One of the biggest things I’m doing is—I aires and the insiders get wealthier, and everyone society and I’m frankly ashamed that we are even of legislation in my lifetime in office … I’ve prov- don’t write people off based on who they voted else is getting left behind and people are sick and having a conversation about whether or not we en that there are machine politics that still carry for in the last election. So, I’m spending a lot of tired of it. … I have the same conversation in can marginalize people based on who they love. red communities, in blue communities, in purple WCT: What would you say are some of the communities. They’re just people at the end of most pertinent issues for the LGBT commu- Activism meet-ups, the day. nity? WCT: What do you think is your biggest dis- AP: It’s about making sure that Illinois is inclu- personal book recommendations, advantage in the primary? sive and welcoming, whether it’s for immigrants AP: While campaigns shouldn’t be about mon- or LGBTQ people. We live in an inclusive society, weekly events, Kids Storytime, and more! ey, the campaigns are about money. I’m not go- and as the chief executive of the state, it’s my job ing to be able to do TV ads every minute of the to guarantee that inclusiveness. … My commit- There are so many reasons to support day like the millionaires and billionaires. But I ment to the LGBTQ community, and other com- also see that as an advantage, because I’m just munities who may feel marginalized because of Chicago’s only feminist bookstore. like everybody else. In 99.9 percent of the state, our president, or people like Bruce Rauner, is that if they ran for governor, they’d be doing what I’m the “debate” will be over. If we’re lucky, we won’t doing. I think the disadvantage that some people have to debate that anymore. We can talk about see is an advantage for me. specific issues, but I want to give people a sense WCT: What would be two or three of your top of who I am. You’re not going to have to wonder priorities? where I am on human rights. AP: There would be four planks. Changing the WCT: You’ve already made some comment on ways we fund schools—the state has got to put the transgender community. What can a gov- substantially more money into the pot. Universal ernor do to assure that they receive equitable child care—we say we have family values, but treatment in the state? we have to show that we value families. A major AP: Making sure that their documents and state public-works bill—that could really get people records don’t stigmatize people—that’s based on back to work. And criminal justice reform—what whether they even want to have their gender- I tell people is this: We have to look at our histo- identity referenced. It doesn’t matter. People are ry. Forty years ago, when our factories and indus- Turn to page 11 WINDY CITY TIMES Aug. 30, 2017 11 “In 2001, I came over to America with two suitcases and $200. However, [I had something] more valuable: three degrees. So, as long as you’ve got that you have everything.” This was senior pathologist assistant Liam Nolan’s mindset when he decided to leave his life in Liverpool, England, to accept an offer to carry out his research in St. Louis. Four years later, Nolan would accept his current position at Chicago’s Mt. Sinai hospital. “What I do is I look for diseases in surgical specimens. It’s kind of investigative,” he said, with a laugh. (He recently celebrated his 12th anniversary in the LIFE there.) Nolan’s career choice has always been an Liam Nolan easy one. “When I was 17, I was diagnosed TEXT BY TARINA HARGRAYS with cancer, so I’ve always been drawn to PHOTOS from Nolan pathology. I survived it twice; it came back when I was 21,” said Nolan. He went on to say • Age • Dream superpower that his medical history as well as the hospital 45 “Read people’s he works at motivates him to work in his field. minds. I think As much as Nolan loves his job, he admitted • Orientation the world would it can be “disheartening” to witness tragedies Gay be a lot better if such as shootings and stabbings on a daily • Job title people were more basis. When it is time to reset and relax, Nolan Senior pathology transparent and can be found doing yoga or walking his dog, assistant said what they Finn with husband Ed Underhill, an attorney. mean.” “Ed and myself are about to celebrate our • Favorite musical three-year anniversary.” The two have been • Little-known fact artist together for 11 years, having met at Boystown “I was on a Annie Lennox nightspot Roscoe’s. “I think one of the main British trivia reasons he likes me is my cooking. I am a • Favorite food TV show called pretty good cook and enjoy cooking for him,” “Potatoes in any Blockbusters.” form” said Nolan. Nolan (left), with husband Ed Underhill.

PAWAR from page 10 ally happening. WCT: What do you see as the future of the Looking for a good old-fashioned house Democratic party, both at the state and na- human beings; that’s all that matters. I know tional levels? that there are a number of bills in play that kind party to meet mature men 35+? AP: My sincere hope is that we organize in a of address these. You don’t even have to ask me. way that allows people to transcend race and If things like those come up, send them to my class, and that we can address our common goals. desk and I’ll make sure they’re signed. Again, I HOS is hosting a private party. For example, when we go around the state and try to look at this from a “big umbrella.” Gender talk about institutional racism, we try to frame it Open bar and food buffet. is a socially constructed view of the world, and in a way so that a lot of people understand that we’ve marginalized people for millennia based on If you’re interested in M4M [if we have the conversation] we’re not accusing a socially constructed view. you of racism. But if we’re not willing to talk meeting face to face, come to this WCT: What can the governor do for residents about it, we’re all party to the institutionaliza- dealing with HIV/AIDS? tion of racism. We need to talk about issues and Singles Party 2017. AP: There are communities we haven’t ad- create those spaces without attacking one an- dressed; for example, we’ve seen an uptick in the **THIS IS NOT A SEX PARTY ** other. The economy is out of whack; it favors the African-American community, for example. Where few and it pits the majority against one another. my parents are from in India, there is a large We’re all struggling, from the upper middle-class spread of AIDS amongst truckers, because of all the way down. … The Democratic Party needs Sept. 23 • 7 pm - 1 am the lack of access to quality contraceptives. The to be focused on justice and equity, and policies point is, we have to be able to talk about these South Plainfield, NJ that help transcend race and class. I’m hoping issues and then fund them. That means that the Close to all public transportation from NYC/Newark airport. that I can be a part of that. conversation takes place in a space where people This is a nationwide invitation. $30 This is one of a series of interviews Windy don’t feel marginalized or embarrassed. … When City Times is running regarding gubernato- it comes to policy related to HIV/AIDS, we would rial candidates. For more on Pawar, visit make sure there is special attention paid to the Pawar2018.com. Contact Tony for more information! community and the programs we put on are cul- turally competent and sensitive to what is actu- Call or text: (908) 930-9204 Email: [email protected] @windycitytimes1 /windycitymediagroup You must register to be invited to this private event. @windycitytimes www.windycitymediagroup.com ** DRUGS ARE NOT ALLOWED ** 12 Aug. 30, 2017 WINDY CITY TIMES viewpoints

said they knew of fights, threats, assaults and other filing “friend of the court” briefs; and not holding incidents that could be traced directly to election meetings in cities with discriminatory policies. The rhetoric,” it said in a statement. “Many teachers organization also honored federal marriage equality WINDY Dana took pains to point out that the incidents they were plaintiff Jim Obergefell at its 2017 Human and Civil RUDOLPH reporting represent a distinct uptick; these dynamics Rights Awards in July. CITY are new and can be traced directly to the results of And when the Department of Education invited MOMBIAN the election.” The behavior, it noted, was “directed representatives from two anti-LGBTQ groups to against immigrants, Muslims, girls, LGBT students, speak at its “Engaging Fathers and Families” event TIMES Back-to-school kids with disabilities and anyone who was on the in June, the NPTA withdrew. VOL. 32, No. 50, Aug. 30, 2017 ‘wrong’ side of the election.” I am also encouraged by the strength and resil- The combined forces of Windy City Times, time in the What hope can we find then, in back-to-school ience of young people themselves. The status of founded Sept. 1985, and Outlines newspaper, founded May 1987. Trump era times like these? Gavin Grimm’s lawsuit is in question now that he First, I do believe we will retain much of the has graduated, but he recently told LGBTQ Nation PUBLISHER & EXECUTIVE EDITOR progress we have made toward LGBTQ inclusion and that despite the government’s anti-trans actions, “I My son is starting high school this fall, which I find Tracy Baim understanding in schools. Organizations like GLSEN, see a positive future ... because the conversation is hard to believe—it seems like just yesterday that PFLAG and HRC’s Welcoming Schools project have growing.” ASSISTANT PUBLISHER Terri Klinsky I was driving him to preschool. This year feels dif- been doing terrific on-the-ground work for years. Regardless of whether Grimm himself succeeds, MANAGING EDITOR Andrew Davis ferent for other reasons, too. Last year, we headed ASSOCIATE EDITOR Matt Simonette Resources for educators continue to increase--one others are continuing the fight. Three trans stu- into school time with the assumption that progress BUSINESS MANAGER Ripley Caine recent notable work is Rethinking Sexism, Gender, dents, Juliet Evancho, Elissa Ridenour, and A.S., DIRECTOR OF NEW MEDIA Jean Albright towards LGBTQ equality and inclusion in education and Sexuality, an essay collection from Rethinking backed by Lambda Legal, reached a settlement Au- ART DIRECTOR Kirk Williamson would continue with little hindrance. This year, Senior Account Executives Terri Klinsky, Schools that offers both practical tips and reflec- gust 1 in which the Pine-Richland School District however, the pall of federal actions against LGBTQ Kirk Williamson, Amy Matheny, Scott Duff, tive insights on creating classrooms, curriculum, and in Pennsylvania agreed to respect trans students’ students, particularly transgender ones, hangs heavy Monika Pickett, David Strzepek more to nurture all children. identities with regard to student records, names, and NATIONAL SALES Rivendell Media, 212-242- over all of us. The professional organizations of educators, too, pronouns; to include gender identity in its nondis- 6863 One of the first acts of the Trump administration SENIOR WRITERS Bob Roehr, Tony Peregrin, are continuing their support. Last summer, the Na- crimination policies; and to allow them to use the was to withdraw guidance instituted by the Obama Lisa Keen, Yasmin Nair tional Education Association (NEA), the National bathroom matching their gender identities. THEATER EDITOR Scott C. Morgan administration on how schools should protect trans- Parent Teacher Association (NPTA), and the Ameri- And thanks to the efforts of trans advocates and CINEMA WRITER Richard Knight Jr. gender and gender nonconforming students un- SPORTS WRITER Ross Forman can Federation of Teachers (AFT) had all announced allies in New Jersey, Gov. Chris Christie (R), not der Title IX. More recently, Secretary of Education ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT WRITERS support for plans and policies to promote safety and known as a strong LGBTQ supporter, at the end of Mary Shen Barnidge, Lawrence Ferber, Mel Betsy DeVos, a proponent of allowing students to support for LGBTQ students, working in partnership July signed legislation requiring the state education Ferrand, Jerry Nunn, Jonathan Abarbanel use publicly subsidized vouchers to go to private with local, state, and federal authorities. commission to develop guidelines to create safe and COLUMNISTS/WRITERS: Yvonne Zipter, Jorjet schools, was asked by reporters on Aug. 4 “if she Harper, Charlsie Dewey, Carrie Maxwell, Billy Right after the Trump administration’s announce- non-discriminatory school environments for trans would intervene if states offered vouchers to pri- Masters, Sarah Toce, Dana Rudolph, Melissa ment on trans students this year, AFT President students. Wasserman, Joe Franco, Nick Patricca, Liz vate schools that discriminated against LGBTQ stu- Randi Weingarten said in a statement, “We want to All is not doom and gloom, therefore, although we Baudler, Rex Wockner, Angelique Smith dents,” the ACLU reported. The organization noted, SENIOR PHOTOGRAPHERS Kat Fitzgerald, Hal be clear to those kids: [Abuse and harassment at shouldn’t minimize the struggles that remain. For “She declined to answer or provide reassurance that Baim, Tim Carroll, Ed Negron school for being trans] is not OK with your teachers those seeking some advice and assistance on navi- WEBSITE LISTINGS VOLUNTEER Gene Naden taxpayer dollars would not be used to discriminate.” or with us at the AFT, and we will continue fighting gating schools as an LGBTQ family, I’ve updated my CIRCULATION DIRECTOR Jean Albright And despite growing efforts in recent years to DISTRIBUTION Ashina, Allan, Dan, John, Sue to protect you.” annual annotated list of LGBTQ Back-to-School Re- reduce anti-LGBTQ and other forms of bullying in and Victor Additionally, the AFT invited trans student Gavin sources, which you can find at mombian.com. schools and online, we now have a president whose WEB HOSTING LoveYourWebsite.com (lead Grimm, who brought a federal lawsuit against his May the worst struggle we have this year be in try- programmer: Martie Marro) personal behavior has been described as “a lot school for not letting him use the restroom corre- ing to get our kids to do their homework. like plain old bullying” (CNN’s Chris Cillizza) and Copyright 2017 Lambda Publications Inc./Windy City Media sponding to his gender identity, to speak at their Dana Rudolph is the founder and publisher of Group; All rights reserved. Reprint by permission only. Back “bear[ing] many of the hallmarks of cyberbullying” issues (if available) for $5 per issue (postage included). biennial TEACH convention in Washington, D.C. in Mombian (Mombian.com), a GLAAD Media Award- (Politico’s Sarah Holder). Return postage must accompany all manuscripts, drawings, July. winning blog and resource directory for LGBTQ and photographs submitted if they are to be returned, and If you think the president’s behavior doesn’t have no responsibility may be assumed for unsolicited materials. The NEA kept up its support by adopting a reso- parents. All rights to letters, art and photographs sent to Windy an impact in our schools, think again. In November, City Times will be treated as unconditionally assigned lution in June to “continue to advance” the rights the Southern Poverty Law Center’s Teaching Toler- for publication purposes and as such, subject to editing of LGBTQ students and educators with a series of and comment. The opinions expressed by the columnists, ance project conducted an online survey of 10,000 cartoonists, letter writers, and commentators are their own specific actions, including offering its members and do not necessarily reflect the position ofWindy City K-12 educators across the country. “More than 2,500 Times. Publication of the name, photograph, or likeness of tools to promote local policies; legislative support; a person or organization in articles or advertising in Windy City Times is not to be construed as any indication of the sexual orientation of such person or organization. While we encourage readers to support the advertisers who make letters this newspaper possible, Windy City Times cannot accept responsibility for advertising claims. (773) 871-7610 FAX (773) 871-7609 contributions of our community to ensuring the a message that the White House would rather turn e-mail: [email protected] or Banning the ban [email protected] safety and security of this country. them away than maintain the strongest military. Dear editor: Legal remedies that right the wrongs in our culture As the Defense Department was getting ready to www.WindyCityMediaGroup.com are important. When President Obama led the way in enact the plan to begin to allow transgender indi- podcast: WindyCityQueercast.com We will not tolerate the transgender military ban. allowing Transgender service members to be out, he viduals to join the U.S. military, President Trump fell WINDY CITY MEDIA GROUP, sent the message that the White House understood back on using misinformation to justify his adminis- 5315 N. Clark St. #192, Chicago, IL, 60640 U.S.A What message does it send to our armed forces and (MAILING ADDRESS ONLY) our country that the commander-in-chief tweeted and appreciated the contributions of our Transgen- tration’s prejudice against the Transgender commu- his decision to stop allowing Transgender individu- der service members. Today, President Trump’s tweet nity, claiming, ‘tremendous medical costs and the Windy City Times Deadline every Wednesday. made clear that this administration holds no such disruption that transgender in the military would OUT! Chicago’s LGBTQ Visitor’s Guide Online als to serve in any capacity in our armed forces? www.WindyCityMediaGroup.com Center on Halsted has always supported LGBTQ respect.” entail.’ full participation in the U.S. military. From artwork The most qualified people to do various military commemorating those who served to hiring veterans jobs have included and will continue to include In solidarity, to programmatic work that takes into account the transgender individuals. While it is an honor and a Modesto Tico Valle needs of veterans, Center on Halsted affirms that privilege to serve, Transgender military personnel CEO, Center on Halsted and those thinking about enlisting have been sent WINDY CITY TIMES Aug. 30, 2017 13 WINDY CITY TIMES DIVERSIONS THEATER • FILM • ENTERTAINMENT • SPORTS

14 20 20 All hail the queen Janet Ulrich Brooks (with Harold Wilson) is Queen Elizabeth II in The Audience. Portsmith. OUTspoken! at Sidetrack. Photo by Lara Goetsch

SCOTTISH PLAY SCOTT Gay Fringe tales BY SCOTT C. MORGAN Seattle. Robert won first-time lottery admission at both the Chicago Fringe and the subsequent Brooklyn-based gay storyteller and “drag clown” suburban Elgin Fringe Festival for his queer pop Dandy Darkly was pleased to see that he wasn’t culture-filled show The Gay Uncle Explains It All the only one delighted when his latest show, For You. Dandy Darkly. “My show comes from a monthly Seattle show I Myth Mouth!, was drawn via lottery to win a spot Photo by in the 8th Annual Chicago Fringe Festival. used to do called The Gay Uncle Time,” said Rob- Stuart Liam “When the lovely lady who drew my name read ert, adding that the topics ranged from disco star McConville it, she let out a cackle,” said Darkly, who asked to Sylvester to sex and sailors. “What I was trying go by his performance name. “She’d seen my pre- to do was to pass on stories from the generation vious show Dandy Darkly’s Pussy Panic at the New of gay men—my generation of which so many are Orleans Fringe Festival, so she knew my work.” no longer around to tell these stories.” The Chicago Fringe Festival returns once again Robert officially came out in 1977, and likes to Chicago’s Jefferson Park neighborhood through to find interconnected strands between typical- Sunday, Sept. 10. Of the 50 participating artists ly frivolous pop cultural trends and fashions to in nearly 200 performances, some performers hail larger issues of queer life in general. By doing from as far away as Greece and Ireland. so, Robert hope to bridge a disconnect between Darkly was glad to add a Chicago debut to his younger gay men who might eschew the knowl- decision this year to touring to American fes- edge of their elders. tivals after spending previous summers at the “I try to present things that I feel passionately Edinburgh Fringe in Scotland (and recently re- and have good memories about and that are sym- ceiving three nominations for the New York In- bolic of things that I think influenced my life novative Theatre Awards). Dandy Darkly’s Myth and the lives of gay men my age,” Robert said. “I 2018, because applications for this festival went subsequent performance is $10 each. Kids Mouth! has already played Tampa and Orlando in loved , I loved every minute of being live in December,” Cauley said. “There are some Fringe tickets for youth ages 12 and younger Florida, Provincetown in Massachusetts and even gay and I lost almost everyone I know to AIDS boundary pushing shows this year, but I’ll be in- are $5 each after button purchase. Multi-show Portland, Maine. and it was horrible. But I do not regret one single terested to see what happens next year. A lot of passes are available, while an unlimited pass “This particular show focuses on storytelling thing about the life I led.” artists are still processing what is happening.” is $175. For a full list of shows and venues, and our queer pantheon of luminaries like Paul At the Chicago Fringe, Robert is keen to soak “Fringe festivals are so important,” said Darkly, visit ChicagoFringe.org. Lynde, Keith Haring, Divine, Langston Hughes, up the atmosphere and to meet up with other emphasizing the benefits of ones that operate on Dandy Darkly’s Myth Mouth! plays seven Willi Ninja—all these beautiful, beautiful people performing artists. For instance, Robert is look- a lottery system like Chicago. “It really gives an shows between Thursday, Aug. 31, through who create the mythology we ascribe to as queer ing forward to catching up with former Seattle opportunity for people who maybe have never Friday, Sept. 8, at the CCJP Gym, 5320 W. people” said Darkly of the allegorically filled Myth comic Jilberto Soto. His show, Even Got Knew I stepped a foot onstage, but have this dream to Giddings St. The Gay Uncle Explains It All To Mouth! “Coming of age in the ‘90s (I don’t want Was Gay, is being imported from London. do something crazy or poignant or write some- You plays three shows between Friday, Sept. to give away my age, of course), I was very in- On top of the LGBTQ artists involved with the thing and perform it. If they’re in, they’re in.” 8, through Sunday, Sept. 10, at the Windy fluenced by the AIDS crisis and so all of my sto- Chicago Fringe Festival, executive director Anne The 8th Annual Chicago Fringe Festival con- City Music Theatre Blackbox Studio, 5340 W. ries I produce focus heavily on themes of sex and Cauley notes that year’s festival features lots of tinues through Sunday, Sept. 10, at five differ- Lawrence Ave. The Gay Uncle... also plays four death—in particular how the two weave them- other variety including dance troupes, the ma- ent venues within walking distance of Fringe shows at the Elgin Fringe Festival between selves together.” gician Danny Dubin and even self-billed mind Central at Weston’s, 4872 N. Milwaukee Ave. Thursday to Sunday, Sept. 14-17 (ElginFringe- Another gay performer making inroads to Il- reader Mark Toland. There is a one-time purchase of a Chicago Festival.com). linois for the first time is Jeffrey Robert from “I anticipate more political work coming in Fringe Festival Button for $5, and then each 14 Aug. 30, 2017 WINDY CITY TIMES THEATER REVIEW in his final days. Charles is revealed to be ad- dicted to alcohol and opiates. Berkeley’s espousal The Veil of Transcendentalism has earned him the censure Playwright: Conor McPherson of his church superiors. Their abortive attempt at At: Idle Muse Theatre Company a seance during a thunderstorm coincides with at the Edge, 5451 N. Broadway The Veil. a fire in the nearby famine-devastated village, Tickets: $20 Photo by whereupon the ladies of the manor cease fretting Runs through: Sept. 17 Steven over their own troubles to concern themselves Townshend with those of their tenants. Neurasthenic fan- BY MARY SHEN BARNIDGE cies gradually give way to a practical approach to life’s problems. Conor McPherson’s earlier plays proposed a news Theater historians preferring to ignore the in- journalist hobnobbing with vampires and a poker tervening years between the age of Goethe and game with Satan, so when he proclaims that this Schiller and that of Ibsen and Chekhov, audi- one “rests on a fault line between what’s real and ences in 2017 may find themselves confused at what isn’t,” we can’t say we weren’t warned. His confronting two such dissimilar genres portrayed caveat also describes the evolution of English on the same stage, despite the heroic efforts of literature in the 19th century, though, and thus director Ann Kreitman and a muscular Idle Muse may be read as an allegory of the transition from company to guide us through the complex evolu- Romantic mysticism to scientific rationalism. suicide having left his heirs destitute, Hannah’s Audelle, both hoping to enlist Hannah’s powers tionary progress of McPherson’s narrative. Playgo- Our story is set in 1822, amid the rocky north- impending marriage to a wealthy Englishman is in pursuit of their queries into spiritualism. ers are advised to take their cue from the extra- ern provinces of Ireland, in a country house be- expected to rescue her kin from penury, even as Just when we anticipate a nice, shivery, sensory Hannah—portrayed by Ashley Crowe, not longing to the Lambroke clan, now represented the prospective bride’s propensity for hearing neogothic thriller, however, the dramatic action as the traditional tubercular sylph, but a sturdy by the resolute widow Madeline Lambroke, the ghostly voices threatens to sabotage the scheme. makes an abrupt cosmological turn. We learn young woman intellectually capable of more than dotty dowager “Grandie” Lambroke and the with- Exacerbating the domestic tension is the ar- that the late Edward Lambroke exhibited behav- serving as a mere vessel for wayward phantoms. drawn Miss Hannah Lambroke. Lord Lambroke’s rival of the Reverend Berkeley and a Mr. Charles ior nowadays associated with bipolar depression

THEATER REVIEW have quickly perceived their role to be that of less, we require only a glimpse of the now nona- sensibilities into a full-out stunt-show. the adult in the room, a responsibility to be pre- genarian ruler upon assuming her office in 1953 Rather than fighting these flaws, however, di- The Audience served for as long as such supervision should be to discern her propensity for keeping ahead of rector Nick Bowling embraces their commercial- Playwright: Peter Morgan required. those who would underestimate her, even as she savvy expedience to create a milieu allowing the At: Timeline Theatre Company at Playwright Peter Morgan has made a career of also strives to integrate her personal and public formidable Janet Ulrich Brooks and the sturdy Baird Hall, 612 W. Wellington Ave. documenting the alleged activities of the power- spheres more gracefully than her misbehaving Matt DeCaro, Marc Ulrich and Carmen Roman to Tickets: $40-$54 ful and privileged. His latest roman a clef propos- kin. lend their personae a playful charm never spilling Runs through: Nov. 12 es to eavesdrop on the weekly briefing sessions Despite extensive playbill notes acquainting us into caricature. Their warmth is echoed by dialect (“audiences”) between the designated leader of Yanks with foreign protocol, playgoers will need instructor Elise Kauzlaric’s deft dialect instruc- BY MARY SHEN BARNIDGE the Commonwealth and its chief executive of- to exercise extreme vigilance, since Morgan has tion and by Andrew Hansen’s score of period mu- ficers, the Prime Ministers—eight of whom we written, not a play so much as an outline for a sic, culminating in the most imaginative curtain Elizabeth Windsor was not the first English meet in the course of our visit. Since these real- prospective screenplay. The array of costume- call of the season. queen to embark on her reign like a new prin- life interviews were, and are, conducted in strict and-wig changes mandated by his non-chrono- cipal charged with bringing order to a schoolful confidence, Morgan is free to speculate. logical narration, combined with the interludes of unruly children. From Henry Tudor‘s multiple His speculations deliver a portrait of the cur- engendered thereby (featuring the infant Princess c marriages to the adulterous roistering of Victo- rent monarch in her advisory capacity, albeit not “Lillibet” assessing her future and an equerry/ ria’s sire and dame down through Uncle Edward’s above offering mumsie comfort to movers-and- butler providing tour-guide exposition) threaten CRITICS’PICKS 1936 abdication, daughters ascending the throne shakers beset by stress and/or pique. Neverthe- to transform a text already marred by archetypal The Fly Honey Show, The Inconvenience at Den Theatre, through Sept. 2. If Hair was the “love-rock musical” of the 1960s, this gleefully THEATER REVIEW no matter how little you know about the land insinuation given He-Man’s Tom of Finland ap- R-rated gender-inclusive revel, garbed in spandex of Eternia. pearance, and well, Hamlet never came off as all instead of flowers, is its 2017 offspring. MSB The Tragedy of If you do know something about He-Man, that masculine either. Prepare yourself for the Machinal, Greenhouse Theater Center, through you’ll be surprised at how seamlessly Duncan/ play ... come to think of it, He-Man, Hamlet and Sept. 24. Heather Chrisler delivers an unforget- He-Manlet Man-At Arms, Tila, and Skeletor fit into the Hamilton all sound a little alike, don’t they? It’s table performance in Sophie Treadwell’s ground- Playwright: Adam “Roz” Rosowicz Polonius, Ophelia, and Claudius roles. Alex B. an epic performance in about five difference ac- breaking classic of a woman driven to extremes At: Stage 773, 1225 W. Belmont Ave. Reynolds as Skeletor is a stage-stealer, with cents. And then there’s the traditional He-Man by an oppressive society. MSB Tickets: Stage773.com; $20 his unabashedly cheerful evil and really, really elements, like the self-improvement lesson at Trevor the Musical, Writers Theatre, extended Runs through: Sept. 10 comically bad double entendres. There’s clear the end, which Shakespeare tries to do some- through Oct. 1. This world premiere musical about analogues to a certain orange-haired Presi- times but He-Man does better. a 13-year old discovering he’s gay is too ebullient BY LIZ BAUDLER dent in Skeletor’s policy and rise to power: he What carries the production is not merely the for the subject matter (although it never should wants to keep immigrants out of Eternia and thoughtful writing that elevates a schlocky car- be a tragedy), but the production’s joyous merits He-Manlet might be an unwieldy portmanteau, no one wanted him as king anyway. For the toon to a narrative investment, but the obvious are indisputable, especially the incredible lead but the Tragedy of He-Manlet: Prince of Eternia, Shakespeare scholar, it’s a constant delight to joy the actors are taking in performing (Emma performance by Eli Tokash. JA is a shockingly excellent weaving of two oddly see how this motley crew of half-baked action Luttrell’s Orko, Christopher Woolsey, and Chris- Trevor: The Musical, Writers Theatre, Glencoe, similar narratives. figures approaches the major scenes of the play. topher Donaldson in multiple roles bring this extended through Oct. 1. Dan Collins and Juli- This is relative genius on the part of New The famed soliloquy turns into “To He or not to mind). There are bold neon tights and Doc anne Wick Davis affectionately adapt and expand Millennium Theatre, known for its pop-culture- to he,” a meditation on whether the milque- Martens. There are outsize gestures and silly ac- upon the Academy Award-winning 1994 film inspired productions. In terms of ‘80s cartoons, toast Prince Adam should reveal his dual identi- cents. It’s total scenery chewing camp, but it’s short. It’s all about a showbiz-minded boy and He-Man feels obscure; Hamlet, clearly is not. ty. Yorick’s skull transforms into that of Cringer/ done well and with love, and should definitely his classmates who come to terms with shifting This production seems likely to attract the He- Battlecat, an oddly lovely meditation on a lost make He-Manlet an offbeat Friday night plan for friendships and budding sexualities. SCM Man fandom, but really, it should rope in the pet. In his fabled appearance, The Ghost ac- a slightly nerdy crowd. Hamlet crowd, because it’s so much dang fun, cuses his son, Prince Adam, of being gay, a fair —By Abarbanel, Barnidge and Morgan WINDY CITY TIMES Aug. 30, 2017 15 eSPOTLIGHT

Alejandro Tey in If you couldn’t get tickets to The House The- The Elaborate atre of Chicago’s United Flight 232, the Jeff Entrance of Chad Award-winning docudrama is being revived for Deity. a limited time. Prepare to be unsettled and Photo by moved by Vanessa Stalling’s theatrical adapta- M. Freer tion of Laurence Gonzales’ book detailing the ing the regular run; call 773-769-3832 or visit Photography harrowing 1989 crash of a commercial flight TheHouseTheatre.com. bound for O’Hare International Airport. Unit- Caption: Rudy Galvan, James Doherty ed Flight 232 returns from Thursday, Sept. 1, and Johnny Arena in The House Theatre through Saturday, Oct. 21, at the Chopin The- of Chicago’s original production of United atre, 1543 W. Division St. Tickets are $15 for Flight 232. Photo by Michael Brosilow previews through Sept. 9, and are $25-$45 dur-

posed Mexican and Islamic baddies. Indian-American whom Mace pitches to EKO as a The narrator and hero is Macedonio Guerra great potential wrestling partner. VP is a natural (lithely muscular Alejandro Tey), a Nuyorican ap- in ways which are increasingly provocative, es- pearing as Mace for THE Wrestling (a corporate pecially when EKO casts him as a Middle Eastern they may be, yet their wrestling personae, their name). Mace is a jobber, a skilled grappler paid villain. THEATER REVIEW role stereotypes, would be readily familiar today. to lose to stars such as Deity (Semaj Miller) and Michael Lewis’ setting is a small but real wres- You’ll find similar characters in this athletic yet make the stars look better than they are in the tling ring, with noisily-sprung floor and pliant The Elaborate thoughtful play, which had its world premiere at process. Mace is perfectly happy to “do the heavy ropes. The extensive wrestling action is real, al- Entrance Chicago’s Victory Gardens Theater in 2010. lifting,” declaring “I am one of THE wrestlers, though the intimate theater allows one to ob- Author Kristoffer Diaz makes professional wres- and I love who I am.” He views his rise in pro serve how moves are done and punches pulled. of Chad Deity tling his metaphor for America, readily admit- wrestling as fulfillment of the American Dream. Kudos to director Jeremy Aluma, fight director Playwright: Kristoffer Diaz ting that even lowest-common-denominator fans But even Mace’s tolerance of the manipulation of Kyle Encinas and fight captain Will Snyder for the At: Red Theater Chicago at know it’s scripted and phony. However, just as bigotry reaches the breaking point in his confron- vibrant and exciting physical action. Strawdog, 1802 W. Berenice Ave. with some other types of entertainment and even tations with Deity and THE Wrestling executive Despite its physicality, Diaz doesn’t play his Tickets: 773-733-0540; politics, the phoniness is what enables wrestling EKO (Mickey O’Sullivan). characters stupid for a second and neither does RedTheater.org; $0-$40 to exploit racial, ethnic, religious, social and The catalyst for Mace’s change is Vigneshwar the agile, ebullient, believable cast, with Tey es- Runs through: Sept. 16 class stereotypes in creating the good and bad Paduar or VP (Priyank Thakkar), a charismatic pecially thoughtful. guys upon which wrestling thrives. Reflective of BY JONATHAN ABARBANEL contemporary America, the title character, Chad Deity, is an African-American good guy while My favorite wrestlers are long-ago champs Sweet his opponents often are other shades of brown Daddy Siki and Haystacks Calhoun. Time Past viewed as America’s enemies, among them sup- WINNER OF 5 TONY AWARDS INCLUDING Terrell screenplay ‘24-Hour Fest’ BEST MUSICAL

wins LezPlay contest on Sept. 2 MUSIC BY Pride Films and Plays announced that Kellee Chicago non-profit theater company Nothing Terrell’s screenplay Gemma as the winner of our Without a Company has announced 24-Hour JEANINE TESORI 2017 LezPlay Contest. Fest Volume V, a festival of six new 10-minute BOOK & LYRICS BY Out of three dozen entries, three scripts plays developed within 24 hours. advanced to the finals. The two finalists were The festival is Saturday, Sept. 2, at 7:30 LISA KRON Thanatron, a play by Carolyn Gage; and It’s p.m., at Berger Park Cultural Center, 6205 N. DIRECTED BY Not Rocket Science, a screenplay by Katherine Sheridan Rd. GARY GRIFFIN Varga. On the evening of Friday, Sept. 1, six play- Terrell’s script will receive four days of devel- wrights, six directors and 18 actors will be ran- BASED ON THE GRAPHIC NOVEL BY opmental workshops, culminating in two public domly sorted into teams of five. Each team is staged readings during LezPlay Weekend, Sept. composed of one writer, one director and three ALISON BECHDEL 8-9, at Pride Arts Center, 4147 N. Broadway, at actors, and assigned one location within Berg- 7:30 p.m. er Park Cultural Center. SEP 19–NOV 12 LezPlay, now in its seventh year, enhances The teams devise a new ten-minute play to the visibility and advances the viability of premiere 24 hours later. Four of the six plays women who write plays, screenplays and tele- will be performed in the exterior spaces of plays in which lesbian characters and themes— Berger Park, and two within the South Man- past, present and future—play pivotal roles. To sion. The audience will travel throughout FUN judge the submissions, LezPlay Literary Coor- Berger Park and experience each performance “Easily the Finest dinator Allison L. Fradkin assembled a reading consecutively. Theatre Score in a Decade” team of 25 industry professionals who served Tickets are $15 online and “pay-what-you- HOME THE HUFFINGTON POST as adjudicators for the contest, evaluating the can” at the door. Reserve a ticket online for entries for concept and originality, structure, guaranteed admission at 24hf.bpt.me. GET TIX: 773.871.3000 OR plot, dialogue, character development and les- bian content. VICTORYGARDENS.ORG 16 Aug. 30, 2017 WINDY CITY TIMES South Side beach party entertains, raises awareness By JERRY NUNN presented food at their nearby tent for attendees. Various DJs played music throughout the day sup- Fahrenheit Chicago-Pride South on the Lake porting the talent as well. Guests from the crowd kicked off an all-day gathering at Oakwood Beach competed for a panel of local judges with dance on Aug. 27. moves. A drag show had Baton legends such as Equality Illinois and AIDS Foundation on Chi- Mimi Marks lip synching to Madonna and Sheri cago hosted the South Side beach party. Vendor Payne performing Diana Ross in the park. booths surrounded the lakeshore area, offering Comedians Mz. Ruff n Stuff, Trina Tru Luv, and services from health screenings to voter regis- Otis Mack kept the show moving and lively. Per- tration. Signatures for members of Congress in formers Cakes Da Killa and Cor.Ece had the crowd protest of President Trump’s ban on transgender grooving and dancing on the mostly rain free day. service members were collected on the spot. A ceremony closed the evening in recognition The presenting sponsor was Howard Brown of Anne Carmack of the CORE Foundation and Ser- Health Center and the supporting partner was ette King of Howard Brown Health. Center on Halsted. CALOR-AHF, which supports The party continued as people moved from 41st Latinx people living with AIDS also had a big St. to 75th St. for an official late night after party presence by sponsoring the main stage and offer- at Club Escape that was also hosted by Mz. Ruff ing tons of swag. n Stuff. The Lighthouse Beach Service Pastor Jamie Fra- Photos by Jerry Nunn and Vern Hester zier began the program with announcements and

Dance squad House Arrest.

Left: Mz. Ruff n Stuff. Right: Cakes Da Killa.

Left: Victoria Le Paige. Right: Anthony Galloway (left) and Cor.Ece.

Sheri Payne. WINDY CITY TIMES Aug. 30, 2017 17 may not be the best song in her catalogue, but mouth is. Earlier in the day, she quietly hosted she kept it personal telling a lengthy story that via her mother a BBQ for youth suffering from Lady Gaga performing hopefully translated well to the cheap seats. If homelessness and recently gave money to schools at Wrigley Field. you were lucky enough to snag a ticket in the to help underprivileged students have supplies. Photo by Jerry Nunn front, it was a rare intimate moment and felt like This superstar continues to push the envelope Gaga was speaking directly to the riveted audi- in what it means to be an artist in an indus- ence. try that tends to be a heart less machine. When She stopped to talk about her LGBTQ crowd she sang the gay anthem “Born This Way” the then acknowledged that everyone was welcome. stadium lit up like a Pride celebration complete The pop singer inserted facts about Chicago as with rainbow lights to finish it off. This segment CONCERT REVIEW often as she could, such as a shout-out to a danc- showed that her loyal LGBT fanbase will always er who is from the area; she also congratulated be by her side and the queen can perform at our the Chicago Cubs on being world champions. functions until her last dying breath if she so Gaga Want to sell more merch, Gaga? What fans chooses. wanted was the Cubs jersey with Lady Gaga writ- Look for the documentary Gaga: Five Foot Two ten on the back that she wore for one tune. Green on on Sept. 22 while Joanne carries on for breaks Day got that memo by mixing in Cubbie parapher- the rest of the year. nalia at its table the night before. Don’t worry [* Note: Cyndi Lauper was the headline per- about her deep pockets, as the tour is expected former at Wrigley Field on July 22, 2006 for glass to earn $100 million before it ends. Talk about the Closing Ceremony of Gay Games VII in Chi- giving her a “Million Reasons…” cago. She was joined by several other bands ceiling at The thing is she puts her money where her and performers.] Wrigley CULTURECULTURE CLUBCLUB Field

BY JERRY NUNN Gaga connected with the audience easily by just being herself. She continually tried to give Even when Lady Gaga releases mediocre music, the title to other people—including a ghost of she knows how to sell it live. her late friend Sonja Durham, who she said was Part of the fun is showing up to see how she onstage earlier. will do just that. Whether playing one song for Gaga smartly had a piano placed in the middle Windy City Gay Idol’s talent competition in 2008 of the dance circle to be closer to her diehard fol- or selling out mega-stadiums in 2017, Stefani lowers. While in the middle of this, she cried until Joanne Angelina Germanotta—who broke the snot ran down her face for a touching rendition of glass celing Aug. 25 by becoming the first female “The Edge of Glory.” She held a note out so long headliner at Wrigley Field*—has always given for the track that it brought down the house and it her all. There were some stellar moments in a proved the reason to see her play the slowed- sold-out show that could have only been slightly down version live. She explained that if people improved. don’t see her mascara running in her career, then The Little Monsters packed Wrigley Field on she is not doing her job. Many of her pop contem- Aug. 25 with many dressed appropriately for the poraries should learn a lesson like this and drop occasion. Longtime collaborator DJ White Shad- the aloof act. People want to feel a connection to ow spun tunes for about an hour to prepare the accompany the music and somehow Gaga pulled audience for a good time. it off in a stadium of epic proportions. Simply With “Diamond Heart,” she kicked off a well- sitting down, strumming a guitar and confessing thought-out setlist that mixed the new songs about past addictions goes a long way in convey- with past pop hits. She cut out “Paparazzi” for ing a story. this stop of the Joanne World Tour for time con- She thanked several people in between songs, straints and no Tony Bennett songs were to be ranging from her dad to everyone buying a ticket. heard. There was no time for cover songs with If you have seen her play at smaller venues, you cramming in so many favorites in the set, which realize the challenges a concert this size can lasted just under two hours. bring. A headset would have allowed her to move There were video montages, guitar solos from more freely. The dancers had to hold the micro- her band and short breaks while she switched phone in front of her while she played her key- costumes behind the scenes. The crowd was board guitar, and that became a bit tricky while dazzled by fire explosions and fireworks in the descending stairs. Another awkward moment

background. happened when she jumped on a dancer and rode TRUGLIA. SAVERIO BY PHOTO THOMAS. SALISHA AND TOKASH ELI PICTURED: The show added international flavor for him piggyback for no reason. Two things to ad- “ScheiBe” and “Alejandro.” Things moved along mire, though, are her gusto and desire to be the with “Poker Face,” “Telephone” and “Just Dance.” consummate performer. She didn’t stop the act Speaking of dancing, it was not a dance-heavy following any small mistakes, and went full out NOW PLAYING concert but was instead about Gaga having per- until the moment she was offstage. sonal moments. The title track from her latest album, Joanne, 847-242-6000 | WRITERSTHEATRE.ORG 18 Aug. 30, 2017 WINDY CITY TIMES Concert benefits LGBTQ refugees A sold-out audience raised nearly $20,000 for by obtaining U.S. citizenship. Kolesov now lives LGBTQ refugees and immigrants Aug. 26 at the in Chicago, where he is first violinist in the Yas Center on Halsted. Quartet, which is in residence at Roosevelt Uni- The featured performer and beneficiary was vio- versity’s Chicago College of Performing Arts. He linist Artem Kolesov, a 23-year-old gay man who will soon be moving to California, to be with his caught the world’s attention when he came out husband, Lalo Diaz, who was at the concert. Artist David Lee Csicsko (center) earlier this year on YouTube as part of a Russian The event was sponsored by Windy City Times, donated his design to benefit Artem “Children-404” project, which invites teenagers Center on Halsted, Barnes and Thornberg LLP, to share their stories and discuss LGBT issues in Chicago Antique Market Randolph Street, Fifth Kolesov (right) and Kolesov’s husband Russia. Third Bank, Lives Oak, Inc., and Poetic License, Lalo Diaz (left). Special guest performer was internationally Inc. Many individuals and businesses donated Photo by Tracy Baim acclaimed violinist Rachel Barton Pine. The Yas time and materials to the event. Quartet also performed, along with pianist David U.S. Rep. , honorary chair of host committee, also addressed the crowd. group helping save LGBTQ lives. Schrader and Kolesov’s violin instructors. the host committee, spoke to the audience about In addition to benefiting Kolesov’s legal de- John Ademola Adewoye, a Nigerian refugee While Kolesov’s move caught international at- LGBTQ refugees, and also the problems facing LG- fense, the event raised funds for two other LGBTQ from CLASP, addressed the crowd at the VIP re- tention, it also means that he can never return BTQs in the United States. refugee groups, Chicago LGBTI Asylum Partners ception after the concert, as did Michael Murphy, home. His dream, therefore, is to insure his safety Bruce Koff and Lori Cannon, co-chairs of the (CLASP) and Rainbow Railroad, a Toronto-based director and chair of Rainbow Railroad USA.

Left: Michael Murphy of Rainbow Railroad USA (left) and John Ademola Adewoye of CLASP. Center: Artem Kolesov and Rachel Barton Pine. Right: Lori Cannon, Rep. Jan Schakowsky and Bruce Koff. Photos by Tracy Baim

movie features Mirza as an attorney—and aspir- Groom to discuss the relationship of Gauguin’s annual race and various events throughout the Mirza movie to debut ing luchadora (wrestler)—who tries to keep her sculptures and wood-carvings to his creative year. This past June, PTR had a record number love life (with Azmi) and wrestling a secret from process. They explore how his radical experi- of participants—more than 2,200—and raised Sept. 28 at Music Box her mother. ments in three dimensions affect his overall ap- a single-year record of $65,000 for our benefi- The lesbian-themed movie Signature Move— In related news, Signature Move is also slated proach to materials and techniques. ciaries. starring local Pakistani Muslim lesbian actor to be shown at the Chicago South Asian Film Admission is free, but a ticket is required; reg- Interested persons should send their names, Fawzia Mirza—will have a special screening Festival, which will run Sept. 29-Oct. 1 at De- ister at http://bit.ly/2vEkDtG. contact information and short bios (one to at Music Box Theatre, 3733 N. Southport Ave., Paul University. See CSAFF.org. two paragraphs) about themselves to direc- starting Thursday, Sept. 28, at 7 p.m. (Co-star See https://www.musicboxtheatre.com/. [email protected] or by Proud to Run, PO Shabana Azmi is slated to appear.) PTR recruiting BOX 13232, Chicago, IL 60613. People of color, The official Chicago premiere is Friday, Sept. gender non-binary individuals and female-iden- 29. Gauguin talk Sept. 7 board members tifying LGBTQ people are greatly encouraged to Proud to Run (PTR) is looking for organized, Signature Move won the Grand Jury Award for apply. The deadline is Sept. 1. committed and passionate individuals with Best U.S. Narrative Feature Film in this year’s at Art Institute Proud To Run is Chicago’s annual pride race. The Art Institute of Chicago, 111 S. Michigan great communication skills who would like to Outfest Los Angeles LGBT Film Festival, accord- Since 1982, Proud To Run has raised nearly more Ave., will host “Conversation: Gauguin—A Radi- work behind the scenes for one of the nation’s ing to AfterEllen. than half a million dollars to LGBTQ-serving cal Dimension” on Thursday, Sept. 7, 3-4 p.m. longest running LGBTQ charity races. Mirza’s relationship with her girlfriend while charities in Chicago. For more information, Gauguin specialists Elizabeth Childs of Wash- PTR is led by an all-volunteer board of direc- living in Chicago was her inspiration behind email [email protected]. writing the script for the film: “She is now my ington University and June Hargrove of the tors and committee members who execute the ex, but don’t worry; we’re still friends.” The University of Maryland will join curator Gloria group’s vision and mission by organizing the WINDY CITY TIMES Aug. 30, 2017 19

AUTO REVIEW Chevy Trax (right) and an older Chevy in Marion, Illinois. Chevy Trax a smooth Photo by Tracy Baim ride to total eclipse by Tracy Baim

Heading to southern Illinois to join in the Path of Solar Totality for this year’s solar eclipse was made all eclipse. the more enjoyable with a loaner car, the Chevy Photo by Trax, from Chevrolet. We loaded up a family of Barb Kay five adults for the voyage, and could not have been happier with the performance of the car— and the stellar performance of Mother Nature. While most folks headed to Carbondale, Illi- nois, for the festivities, we decided to stake out a place in Marion, a few miles away and right off of Interstate 57. We viewed the eclipse at Rent One Park, where the Southern Illinois Miners baseball team plays. Luck was with us, because the clouds parted for our entire total eclipse, while Carbon- dale had mostly clouds between them and the sun/moon merger. I have never driven a Chevy, and my initial experience left me loving the brand. The SUV THE WINDY CITY TIMES ANNUAL has internal 4G LTS and a built-in wi-fi hotspot, which my nephew greatly enjoyed, plus Sirius ra- dio (quite a male-dominated channel list it has), great navigation and OnStar if we had needed it. There is also a power plug, and easy connection to our phone for music. LGBTQ We took the car on some adventures during our brief stay, including to the Shawnee National For- est and the Crab Orchard Nature Reserve. Both are spectacular. The Trax handled the winding, hilly and gravel roads very well, and we felt safe going JOB FAIR! over some rickety bridges and narrow waterways. NEW DATE We also got great gas mileage. Friday, Sept. 29, 2017 Being under five feet tall, I always worry about 11 am - 4 pm driving an SUV, but this Trax really handled well, and I never felt overwhelmed. It’s a sporty size, Center on Halsted, 3656 N. Halsted and maneuvers in any environment. This is my first time driving a car with a rear-view camera, Special workshop presentations. Plus business and and it works terrific. I am not used to keyless nonprofits will have booths seeking employees, entry and start, but that was easy to pick up. We also had a bit of fun with the car when we interns and students. stumbled on a 1940s Chevy pickup in an old barn Free and open to all, with a special focus on LGBTQ next to the Warehouse Antique Mall in downtown youth, seniors and transgender adults. Marion. We posed the cars together for a shot of the Trax meeting its ancestor. We think the cars were smiling through their grilles. We stayed at the Drury Inn Marion, and having EVENT SPONSORS We are seeking businesses, nonprofits and schools to booked our trip a year ahead of time, we had a great rate. And the fee included warm break- participate in this job fair, bringing with them a range of job fast and dinner, and three free drinks. Plus free offerings, from entry-level to more experienced individuals. parking, easy access to the Interstate and lots of nearby shopping and restaurants. The eclipse itself was beyond incredible, and I Booth costs: $95 for businesses; $75 for nonprofits now understand eclipse chasers from around the DEADLINE: Sept. 15, 2017 Email to: [email protected] for application world. We met people from multiple countries Please make checks payable to Windy City Times, send to Windy City Times, 5315 N. Clark St., #192, Chicago, IL 60640. looking for the ultimate experience of totality, Or you can pay via paypal, [email protected], or credit card, and we just might join them again in seven years, contact [email protected]. when southern Illinois becomes the center of the universe once again. PARTNERS 20 Aug. 30, 2017 WINDY CITY TIMES often after it seemingly peaked a few years ago). edge going to the grass-fed ribeye, one of the The fish was meaty (yet tender) without actually few non-seafood entrees), and even rolls are being too fishy. And the rumaki (with scallops, $2 each. However, if you manage to save your pork belly, green papaya, lemongrass carrot pu- money or have a special occasion to mark, this is the DISH ree and ginger confit) was simply heavenly. The the place to hit. (Also, children are welcome, as Weekly Dining Guide in desserts are must-haves as well, with dishes that there’s a kids’ menu.) constantly surprise (in terms of what’s presented Here’s hoping these wonderfully unique spots WINDY CITY TIMES as well as the fact that things don’t taste like don’t go underwater. they look). Note: Restaurant profiles/events are based SAVOR Now an experience like this doesn’t come on invitations arranged from restaurants and/ Leviathan and cheaply. Entrees run $29-$62 each (the upper or firms. —Jenn Henry is a wife, daughter, sister, aunt, Portsmith Food at Portsmith (above) and drink at friend, dog mom, writer, and 2.5 years sober. She BY ANDREW DAVIS Leviathan (below). Sidetrack’s attends Urban Village Church, Edgewater, and is Photos by Andrew Davis a student at Northwestern University. Her two fa- Saying (or writing) that imbibing and dining, re- OUTspoken! Series: vorite colors are green and purple, sage and plum spectively, at the dana hotel and spa’s Leviathan September’s featured to be exact, and she is obsessed with polka dots and Portsmith (660 N. State St.)—both of which and the band Phish, much to her wife Leslie’s The Fifty/50 Restaurant Group developed—is storytellers dismay. “simply unique” isn’t really enough to describe —Courtnay O’Connell is a graduate of Kid- what these spots offer. die Kollege (‘71), Indiana University (‘88), and Jenn Henry Leviathan (LeviathanChicago.com), located on Loyola University College of Law (‘91). She works the second floor, has items from the mind of mix- as an employment attorney at a state agency ologist Benjamin Schiller, who has said his atten- you’ve never heard of representing agencies tion-getting cocktails (in terms of taste as well about which you never hear anything good. She as glasses/cups/vessels) were inspired by mythi- is looking forward to bankrupting the state with cal creatures of the sea. (The restaurant group her bloated pension when she retires in 7 years, is also responsible for the visually eye-widening is common in most port towns and that a chef is 10 months and 25 days. concoctions in the rooftop spot Apogee, like the —Adam Ross is a writer and frequent story- a food ‘smith,’ or craftsman.” Courtnay O’Connell Mr. Nice Guy that’s served in a bong.) A recent media event allowed for some tastings teller at curated storytelling shows and Moth For example, take the drink called the Levia- StorySLAMs in , Los Angeles, New of seafood items that exhibited a global fare. Adam Ross than. It includes gin, North Shore aquavit, ginger (Dishes are divided into “Raw + Lightly Cooked,” York City and Chicago. In addition to Adam’s cre- syrup, rum, lime, angostura, mint and—wait for “Appetizers,” “Bread Service,” “Entrees” and ative projects, he has spent the last two decades it—shaved bonito flakes, the latter ingredient re- “Middle of the Table” (side plates).) working for technology companies in various le- inforcing the whole nautical theme. Other drinks As with Leviathan, visual presentation is key gal and business capacities, where he has almost have names such as Davy Jones’ Locker, Below (and flawless). The uni dish was an enticing mix mastered the art of cat­-herding. Deck Sazarac and the Kraken (which contains, of lychee, candlenut and sea salt that allows din- —Daniel Ryan and his husband, Patrick, have among other things, squid-ink tuile, naturally). ers to simply pop off the fruit’s top; while Fancy two grown children whom they adopted as an However, if you’re not feeling too adventurous, openly gay couple in the early ‘90s. He has served Oyster—oyster with foie gras, yuzu flake daikon Daniel Ryan there are generous lists of wine, beer, whiskey and green apple—came in a case that could’ve on the National Board of Family Equality Coun- and the like. doubled as a jewelry box. cil and the National Board of Welcoming Schools After dining, take the stairs down one floor Fortunately, the dishes tasted as good as they Sadé with Human Rights Campaign (HRC). He is also to Portsmith (PortsmithChicago.com), which its looked. I especially appreciated the turbot with featured in the documentary, Out and Proud website says is “named for the idea that seafood Meyer lemon (an ingredient I haven’t seen too in Chicago. As a former Peace Corps Volunteer, openly gay educator, and gay parent, Daniel has advocated for LGBT parents for nearly 25 years. —Sadé is a comedy writer who hails from the south side of Chicago. Her truthful, yet amusing stories provide a unique perspective on navigat- Kaelan Strouse ing through life as a Queer Black woman. You may have seen her on the stages of The Annoy- Rohan Zhou-Lee ance Theatre, Second City and The Laugh Factory. —Kaelan Strouse is the creator of the blog On- TheRoadToBliss.com, about his journey learning to be happy. He wrote and directed the award- winning film Legend of Amba and has acted in TV Mother Monster and her little monsters at the Lady Gaga concert at Wrigley Field. shows, films, commercials and stages across the Photos by Jerry Nunn country. He is a Wildcat (graduate of Northwest- ern), as well as the Conservatory at The Second City. The September edition of —Rohan Zhou-Lee is a ballet dancer, classi- OUTspoken! LGBTQ storyteller cal trumpeter and writer in the Chicago area. Re- series takes place Tuesday, Sept. 5, cent performances include: Homage, which pays at Sidetrack, 3349 N. Halsted St. tribute to Asian American survivors and victims of police brutality; The Soldier’s Home, a play Doors open at 6 pm, stories begin (that they wrote), which follows a female vet- at 7. eran struggling with PTSD from the War in Iraq; See www.outspokenchicago.com for Indiana Ballet Theatre’s Cinderella as the Autumn more info. Cavalier; and Chicago Ballet Festival’s Nutcracker as the Spanish lead. WINDY CITY TIMES Aug. 30, 2017 21 Billy MastersMasters

“You need some manners ‘bruh’. I didn’t need to stop to take that picture with you. Just rude. Very rude.”—The diminutive Nick Jonas responds to a tweet from Zak Hanzal, who posted a photo he took with Jonas on the street with the caption, “@NickJonas u need a few more inches bruhh.” We can only pray Nick has those extra inches where they count. Where were you when Princess Diana died? For my generation, that’s our touchstone—like JFK getting shot. I had just moved to LA and was in my new apartment. I’ll never forget watching Di- ana’s funeral. I had just fixed dinner for my very hot pharmacist boyfriend. (I may have been new in town, but I arranged to have a hot boyfriend in advance.) At the sight of Diana’s casket being drawn through the streets of London, I had an Nick Jonas didn’t take kindly to a fan’s overwhelming feeling. I believe the polite term comments, Billy says. is “horny.” I can’t explain it. I guess the combi- Photo by Michael Loccisano nation of a funeral and a hot guy with access to prescription drugs overwhelmed me. pointed out that this is one of the rare cases of What is the end of the summer without Jerry a gay television couple being played by two gay Lewis? When I feel a chill in the air, I prepare to men—how quickly people forget Ellen. If you’re see Jerry on TV. This year was no different—ex- into that sorta thing, tune in quickly—the series cept it was coverage about his death. He’s been finale is Sept. 24. absent from our screens for the past few years Meanwhile, on Broadway, some people are com- after being unceremoniously ousted prior to the ing and some people are going. has 2011 Muscular Dystrophy Telethon. I’m sure Jerry taken Broadway by storm with his sensational was no walk in the park. But whenever I think of portrayal of the title role in Dear Evan Hansen— Labor Day, Norm Crosby, or Maureen McGovern, I but all good things must come to an end. He’ll be think of Jerry. leaving the show on Nov. 19. So, who will be the This past Friday, our president began banning next Evan Hansen? The first one isN oah Galvin, transgender people from serving in the military. late of The Real O’Neals—and the one who gave Phase one is stopping transgender individuals that loathsome interview to Vulture where he ba- from being recruited. Along with that, he has sically trashed his colleagues, his work, Colton asked Defense and Homeland Security to ascer- Haynes and (worst of all) his fans. He may be a tain “how to address transgender individuals cur- name, but a somewhat tarnished one. That said, rently serving.” In protest, MTV invited active- perhaps he’s a lovely boy who has grown up and duty transgender troops to appear at the Video will do a good job. Music Awards. Walking the carpet were six mem- Happily, he’ll be holding the spot for a real bers of the armed forces alongside the president star—Taylor Trensch. Taylor is currently appear- much. I mean what is all the fuss. We see people of GLAAD—well, you know, GLAAD always finds a ing opposite Bette Midler in the revival of Hello, naked every day.’ That’s really what I thought.” way to get involved. Dolly!, as Barnaby. His scenes are a HOOT, and Really? I was sure the song was about shrinkage. While the U.S. government tries to figure out he really deserves this break. And he’s cute as a Hundreds (and I do mean hundreds) of you what to do with transgender people, Richard button (not like I collect buttons or anything). have been writing to me asking if I have Tiger Simmons is coming out with his top five rea- Proving you can’t keep a funny lady down, Woods’ penis. I swear I never touched it and nev- sons why he isn’t one, saying, “1) I am male, Kathy Griffin has announced a world tour, ap- er wanted to. But, you know, different strokes— 2) I am not transgender, 3) I have never sought propriately titled “Laugh Your Head Off.” And it HA! Apparently some pics were stolen by a hacker nor obtained any medical treatment or procedure is truly a world tour. It kicks off in New Zealand who got into Hope Solo’s phone. (P.S. If you’re a designed to transition from male to female, 4) on Oct. 19 and then continues to Australia and straight man reading this and have the chance to I have never had breast implant surgery, 5) I Singapore before shifting to Europe and wrapping go anywhere near Hope’s vagina, put on a hazmat have never consulted with any medical profes- up in Iceland. ‘Cause until you play Reykjavik, suit first.) Anyway, yes, I’ve got the photo. Yes, I sional regarding sex reassignment surgery.” This you haven’t played the top. think many of you would like to see it. So, sure, isn’t done to brag—it’s part of his lawsuit against Don’t ask how or why, but Shania Twain sud- I’ll put it on BillyMasters.com. the National Enquirer and its cover story last year denly feels compelled to explain to us what some When Shania and I aren’t impressed much, it’s that he was dropping out of sight to become a of the references in her 1997 hit “That Don’t Im- definitely time to end yet another column. If woman named Fiona. He added, “The false and press Me Much” actually meant. She said, “I re- you’d like to get some wood ... literally, check out fabricated claims that I was contemplating ‘cas- member I had a girl friend visiting me and it was BillyMasters.com, the site that appreciates the tration’ and have had a ‘boob job’ have caused me near Christmas and we were baking cookies. I was little things. And if you have a question, by all extreme embarrassment.” writing this album ‘Come On Over’ and there was a means drop a note to me at Billy@BillyMasters. Charlie Carver and Colton Haynes are back on scandal of Brad and Gwyneth where there was na- com and I promise to get back to you before I Teen Wolf—as a couple! The reveal of Ethan and ked photos of him. And this was like all the rage. launch a Labor Day Orgy in Jerry’s memory! Until Jackson was included in a preview for the episode I just thought, ‘I don’t know what all the fuss next time, remember: One man’s filth is another that aired this past Sunday. Many people have is about.’ I’m like, ‘Well, that don’t impress me man’s bible. 22 Aug. 30, 2017 WINDY CITY TIMES

Test Positive Aware Network (TPAN) Poetry Reading: Infinite Genders A com- N. Sheridan Rd, 5th floor http://www. 5537 N Broadway St Chicago http:// pilation of poems written by the men- chicagohouse.org/transsafe-4/ COMMUNITY www.tpan.com/events/thrive-edition tors, mentees, and facilitators from Co-Ed Volleyball All experience levels are Co-Ed Volleyball All experience levels are the 2016-17 TransWorks’s Mentorship welcome. Daily pass $7. Monthly pass CALENDAR welcome. Daily pass $7. Monthly pass Program. 7:30pm Women & Children $30. 6:00pm - 9:00pm Center on Hal- $30. 6:00pm - 9:00pm Center on Hal- First Bookstore 5233 N Clark St Chica- sted 3656 N Halsted Chicago http:// sted 3656 N Halsted Chicago go http://www.womenandchildrenfirst. www.centeronhalsted.org Wed., Aug. 30 Bowie Ball Once again celebrate the life com/event/poetry-reading-infinite- Tap into Change: Affinity Happy Hour of David Bowie. Glam it up, dress like genders Join Affinity for happy hour and stay a dandy and let’s love the alien. Bowie Saturday, Sept. 2 Tuesday, Sept. 5 for R&Bey Night! 5:00am - 5:00pm LQQKS & Live Performances by: Bambi TQI Lounge A relaxed social environment Intersex Chicago Casual conversation Sidetrack 3349 N Halsted St Chicago Banks, Hinkypunk, Gidget Von Addams, with discussions about gender, sexual- group for those who identify as intersex http://www.affinity95.org Dusty Bahls, Sally Marvel, Max Gold- ity, life and more. For people who iden- or think they might be. Family, friends L Lounge An informal social space for stein (Yoko and the Oh-no’s). Mistress tify as trans, queer or intersex. First and and allies are invited to attend. 6:30pm Lesbians to come together for friendship of Ceremonies: Lucy Stoole. Bowiesque third Saturdays. 4:30pm Center on Hal- Center on Halsted 3656 N Halsted Chi- and support. 6:00pm Center on Hal- DJ sets by: Heaven Malone, Chess sted 3656 N Halsted Chicago http:// cago http://www.centeronhalsted.org sted 3656 N Halsted Chicago http:// Knight. Hosted by: Abhijeet & Scott www.centeronhalsted.org OUTspoken! LGBTQ Storytelling at www.centeronhalsted.org LET’S DANCE Cramer. Glitter and Glam Makeovers by: Sidetrack Great stories first Tuesday Genderqueer Chicago A community space Thursday, Aug. 31 Sky Cubacub (Rebirth Garments). RSVP Sunday, Sept. 3 of every month. Minibar doors open at for individuals to talk about, think online for Reduced cover till 11pm. 21+ Alcoholics Anonymous Open to those 6pm. Curated by David Fink. No cover. about, explore and express gender. The Bowie Ball—in honor of 10:00pm Berlin Nightclub 954 W Bel- with a desire to stop drinking. 9:30am 7:00pm Sidetrack 3349 N Halsted St 7:00pm Center on Halsted 3656 N David Bowie— mont Ave Chicago http://www.do312. Center on Halsted 3656 N Halsted Chi- Chicago http://www.facebook.com/ Halsted Chicago http://www.facebook. will take place at com/stardust cago http://www.chicagoaa.org/about- events/1266948690030187/ com/groups/75187866592/ caso Berlin Nightclub. Friday, Sept. 1 Thursday, Sept. 7 Thursday, Aug. 31 Photo by Vern Hester Materialkink Curated by Chicago-based Monday, Sept. 4 Ken Burns to screen The Vietnam War Dragapalooza Two stages, dozens of artist Jose Santiago Perez and featur- TransSafe: Weekly Transgender Care Rxclusive screening and discussion with ing artworks by local, national and Services TransSafe is a once weekly Ken Burns and Lynn Novick to preview queens, dancers, entertainers, and art- YMSM Open process group facilitated global artists in erotic art using rope, service for transgender and gender non- their new 10-part documentary The Viet- ists taking over Sidetrack for a celebra- by a licensed counselor open to all HIV- nylon, wax, rubber, fabric, furniture and conforming (GNC) individuals age 18 nam War, an immersive narrative ten tion to benefit Equality Illinois. Hosted positive young men who have sex with leather to show the body and its erotic and up, providing a safe and trans af- years in the making. 6:30pm - 8:30pm by Dixie Lynn Cartwright. Featuring a men, 18-29. A safe space to process engagement with the substances of firming space where trans and GNC in- Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt Uni- “who’s who” of Chicago drag. Suggested one’s HIV status, emotional and men- kinky sexualties. Through Jan. 14, 2018. dividuals can access referral and linkage versity 50 E Congress Pkwy Chicago donation: $10. 8:00pm Sidetrack 3349 tal health, relationships, identity, and 12:00pm Leather Archives & Museum to housing, medical, legal, employment, Tickets: http://interactive.wttw.com/ N Halsted St Chicago https://www.face- personal growth. Also fun activities and 6418 N Greenview Ave Chicago http:// and HIV services. 2:00pm - 5:30pm events/2017-09-07-233000/vietnam- book.com/events/465120213865859/ cultural outings once a quarter. 6:00pm Thrive: Weekly group for HIV-positive leatherarchives.org Heartland Health Outreach Clinic, 4750 war-evening-ken-burns-lynn-novick

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When experience counts... In service to the community • Probate for over 35 years. • Trusts • Guardianship • Business Organization • Estate Planning • Wills, Trusts & Probate • Elder Law

• Real Estate Closings Clark Hill is an entrepreneurial, full service law firm that provides business legal services, government & public affairs, and personal • Premarital Agreements legal services to our clients throughout the country. With offices in Arizona, Delaware, Illinois, Michigan, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Washington, D.C. and West Virginia, Clark Hill has more than 300 attorneys and professionals. 33 N. Dearborn St., Suite 800, Chicago, IL 60602 312.985.5938 [email protected] 312-263-8800 [email protected] clarkhill.com 24 Aug. 30, 2017 WINDY CITY TIMES

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