SHIRLEY WINDY CITY MACLAINE THE VOICE OF CHICAGO’S GAY, LESBIAN, TALKS page 23 BI AND TRANS COMMUNITY SINCE 1985 WITH WCT June 15, 2011 TIMES vol 26, no. 35 www.WindyCityMediaGroup.com
Looking forward page 8 MONA NORIEGA page 12
Leaders in Chicago’s LGBT and HIV/AIDS communities speak with Windy City Times about the future. Included in this special section are (left to right, starting from top) AIDS Foundation of Chicago President David Munar, PFLAG’s Toni Weaver, Chicago House CEO the Rev. Stan Sloan, Equality Illinois CEO Bernard Cherkasov, Association of Latino Men for Action Board President Julio Rodriguez, Gay Liberation Network co-founder Andy Thayer, University of Illinois at Chicago’s Gender & Sexuality Center Assistant Director Liz Thomson, Gerber/Hart Library DUSTIN LANCE President Karen Sendziak, Howard Brown Health Center CEO/President Jamal Edwards and Center on Halsted Executive Director Modesto “Tico” Valle. BLACK
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Riding the Midsommar Gimme some Mo’ page 41 Comedian Mo’Nique was mike Mcraith wave among the many performers Andersonville at this year’s Milwaukee moves on kicks off the Pridefest. page 11 summer with its annual Photo by Jerry Nunn Midsommarfest.
Photo by Jerry Nunn
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PARIS HILTON INTERVIEW
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1())RI&KLFDJR_7KH0HUFKDQGLVH0DUW_6XLWH_&KLFDJR_,/_ _ZZZ1HII2I&KLFDJRFRP WINDY CITY TIMES June 15, 2011 3 this week in You owe it to yourself to visit... WINDY CITY TIMES Bob Rohrman’s NEWS ENTERTAINMENT/EVENTS Prop 8 decision may not be vacated 4 Shirley MacLaine interview 23 GLAAD under fire 5 Gay Idol final preview 24 NYC’s cultural competency 6 Theater reviews 26 LARGEST 1VU folds 7 Cazwell: Out DJ’s interview 29 Future of LGBTs and HIV/AIDS 8 Local filmmakers 30 Munar selected for award 9 Knight: Company; Tracy Morgan 32 Civil unions and trans community 10 Dustin Lance Black; Retreat 34 McRaith moves to D.C. 11 Out of the Office; mayor 36 INVENTORY OF Noriega reception, interview 12 Billy Masters 45 Same-sex divorce in Illinois 13 Lesbian artist; female condoms 14 OUTLINES Gay in the Life: Grisafe 15 Real estate; classifieds 42 Views: Sosin, Segal 16 KIAS IN Calendar Q 44 AIDS @ 30 18 Sports 46
Photos on cover (left, from top): Shirley MacLaine PR photo; Mona Noriega photo by Hal Baim; Dustin Lance Black photo from Facebook; Mike McRaith photo by Ross Forman; Paris Hilton CHICAGOLAND! photo courtesy of Oxygen
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OFFICIAL PROUD OFFICIAL THAT’S ENTERTAINMENT VEHICLE PARTNER VEHICLE This week’s entertainment round-up Plus tax, title, license and doc fee to all prices/payments. All offers with approved credit. All manufacturer rebates and incentives applied to above prices/payments and are in lieu of special APR includes items on Lynda Carter, Whitney programs. Photos for illustrative purposes only. MPG estimates based on EPA estimated highway MPG as reported on the manufacturer’s website. *Payment based on 4.9% APR financing for 84 86(<28560$573+21( months with $3,500 trade equity or cash down payment. †Payment based on 4.9% APR financing for 84 months with $5,000 trade equity or cash down payment. ^^Payment based on 4.9% APR Houston and Michael Strahan. financing for 84 months with $3,500 trade equity or cash down payment. **0% APR financing for 60 months on any new 2010 Kia. Buy down rate may affect final purchase price. Maximum amount 726((285,19(1725< financed is $10,000. ††Payment based on 2.9% APR financing for 72 months with $6,700 trade equity or cash down payment. ^You must qualify. See dealer for details. Bent Nights critiques concerts by Big Freedia (above) and White Mystery. Also, 1(:6(59,&(+2856 plus read about gay Israeli singer Ivri Lider’s We service all makes and models! DAILY BREAKING NEWS show at House of Blues. MONDAY TUESDAY-FRIDAY SATURDAY Photo by Vern Hester 7:30AM-8:00PM 7:30AM-5:30PM 8:00AM-NOON
Your Windy City nightspots Dr. Loren A. Gay Idol finals tJune 8, 2011 Olson, M.D. 1400 E. DUNDEE Rd. Vital ‘Idol’ voting guide. Which of the Final 12 will be your 2011 Windy City Gay Idol? page 16-17 One block west of Rte. 53 on Dundee Rd. Show #419 nightspots 888-844-1089
International Mr. Moose’s musings Leather 2011. on Midsommarfest. pages 19-20 page 10 Find Nightspots on www.WindyCityQueercast.com www.ArlingtonKia.com 4 June 15, 2011 WINDY CITY TIMES sex couples to marry. ONLINE AT Ware challenged Cooper to explain how a long- Judge seems time relationship constitutes proof that Walker WINDYCITYMEDIAGROUP.COM would benefit from such a ruling, noting, “you NATIONAL NEWS can be in a longtime relationship without being in it for purposes of marriage.” unlikely to vacate However, a “reasonable person,” said Cooper, could believe the judge had a potential to ben- efit from a ruling striking Proposition 8. Cooper also said that Walker’s relationship put him in a Prop 8 ruling position “precisely” the same as the two plain- By Lisa Keen tiff couples in the case. —Report: Rev. Eddie Keen News Service The U.S. Code dealing with “Judiciary and Ju- Long (left) settles dicial Procedure” states that “Any justice, judge, for $25M SAN FRANCISCO—It now seems unlikely that a or magistrate judge of the United States shall federal judge will vacate a landmark decision disqualify himself in any proceeding in which his —Lesbian students in which a gay judge ruled that Proposition 8 impartiality might reasonably be questioned.” It suspended is unconstitutional. The evidence? U.S. District also states that a judge “shall also disqualify for hugging Court Chief Judge James Ware said, following a himself” if “He knows that he … has a financial three-hour hearing June 13, that he plans to interest in the subject matter in controversy … —Constance McMillen issue his ruling concerning a motion to vacate or any other interest that could be substantially gets another award within 24 hours. affected by the outcome of the proceeding….” Judges typically take months to write decisions “What fact would you have court rely on to of consequence, and a decision to vacate the know that Judge Walker wanted to change his August 2010 ruling from former Judge Vaughn relationship [and marry, as the two plaintiff Walker declaring Proposition 8 unconstitutional couples sought to do]?” asked Ware. would be of enormous consequence. To expect “It’s common sense,” said Cooper, “and a HHS provides that Ware would write in 24 hours a decision reasonable person would conclude that Judge more same-sex that would undo two years of litigation—includ- Walker had an interest in marrying.” “So, there are no facts to suggest Judge Walker ing issues pending now before the 9th Circuit Judge Vaughn Walker. guidelines U.S. Court of Appeals and the California Supreme wanted to change his relationship to marriage,” Health and Human Services’ (HHS) Cen- Court— seems unlikely. stated Ware. ters for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Also, there was little in Ware’s questioning retiring from the bench, Walker acknowledged to Cooper then sought to persuade the judge that has provided guidance to state Medicaid of Yes on 8 attorney Charles Cooper during the reporters that he himself is gay and that he has the very fact that Walker did not disclose his agencies clarifying that they are able to June 13 hearing in federal court in San Fran- been in a relationship for the past 10 years with relationship to attorneys and did not disclose offer same-sex couples many of the same cisco to give proponents of Proposition 8 much a man. whether he had any interest in marrying the financial and asset protections available to hang their hopes upon. The courtroom erupted in laughter June 13 man reasonably called Walker’s impartiality into to opposite-sex couples when a partner is Ware noted that it is an unusual event when a when Yes on 8 attorney Cooper said that Walker question. entering a nursing home or care facility, ac- judge is put in the position of deciding whether should have disclosed to attorneys before the “But how does failure to disclose serve as cording to a press release. a colleague should have recused himself. Judge January 2010 trial on Proposition 8 not only evidence that he wanted to change the relation- In a letter, CMS advised state agencies of Vaughn Walker, in August 2010, ruled that the that he had been in a relationship with a man ship?” pressed Ware. their ability to ensure that same-sex part- state ban on marriage licenses for same-sex cou- but that he had no interest in marrying that Ted Boutrous, an attorney on the legal team ners can remain in shared homes without ples violates the federal constitutional guaran- man. Cooper argued that Walker’s longtime re- headed by high-profile political attorneys Ted Medicaid liens being applied. The guidance tees to equal protection and due process. Eight lationship was circumstantial proof that Walker Olson and David Boies, said Cooper had no evi- also clarifies that states have the flexibility months after that ruling and two months after would benefit from a ruling that enabled same- dence and that Walker was under no obligation to protect same-sex partners under estate to disclose either his sexual orientation or his recovery and transfer of assets rules. relationship. “Low-income same-sex couples are too “Where would the disclosure requirements often denied equal treatment and the pro- stop?” he asked. tections offered to other families in their Boutrous also refuted Cooper’s contention that greatest times of need,” said HHS Secretary it would be reasonable to presume Walker was Kathleen Sebelius. “This is now changing. “similarly situated” with plaintiffs and wanted Today’s guidance represents another impor- to marry his longtime partner. tant step toward ensuring that the rights “Just because people are gay doesn’t mean and dignity of every American are respect- they’re all alike,” said Boutrous. “Some do want ed by their government.” to marry, some don’t…. There is no evidence that Judge Walker intended to get married.” Walker was not in the courtroom Monday. Ware Orbitz agrees to lUAU had excused him from appearing on a second review advertising The Only Sober Outdoor motion before the court –one to require that all copies of the videotape of last year’s trial be with Fox News turned over to the court. Walker turned over the Washington, D.C.—After a three-week videotapes and requested to be excused from campaign by high-profile LGBT organiza- Tea Dance & BBQ appearing. tions urging Orbitz to examine numerous Interestingly, Ware started off discussion of examples of rampant anti-LGBT bigotry on Saturday, June 25th, 2011 the motion concerning the videotapes by dis- News Corp’s Fox News Channel, the gay- closing that, as the court’s new chief judge, he friendly travel agency has agreed to review 6:00 - 11:00 p.m. had presented Walker, the retiring chief justice, its advertising policy to ensure that it Bonventure House with a personal copy of the trial’s videotape dur- spends its ad dollars on programs that are 825 W. Wellington Ave., ing Walker’s retirement ceremony. Ware started consistent with its core corporate values of Chicago,IL off discussion of the motion to vacate by in- tolerance and non-discrimination. forming Cooper that he had presided over the $10.00 Suggested Rick Jacobs, the founder and chair of the marriage of a same-sex couple. Cooper made no Courage Campaign, said he appreciates Or- Donation response to the same-sex marriage ceremony, bitz taking this review and thanked them Free rapid HIV testing but said he would not consider the presentation for their continuing support of equality for Rain or Shine! of the videotapes during the retirement ceremo- all Americans. ny to be grounds for Ware to recuse himself from All are Welcome! “Orbitz holds itself to high standards, this matter. which is why advertising on Fox News is so Featuring After hearing brief arguments, Ware ruled inconsistent,” said Jacobs. “Their actions DJ Jim Belanger & from the bench and rejected Yes on 8’s request can set the standard for other companies to have all copies of the videotape turned over DJ Vernimal that understand business is not just mak- to the court. He indicated he would, at a later ing a quick buck, but also building long- date, hear arguments on a motion from plain- term loyalty through a consistent corporate Sponsored by: tiffs seeking to allow public release of the vid- ethos. As we go forward, we and our mem- eotapes. Ware said he hoped to have a written bers intend to trust but verify the actions decision concerning the motion to vacate on the of Orbitz and other companies.” court’s website within 24 hours. ©2011 Keen News Service. All rights re- Info @ www.bonaventurehouse.org/soberandproud served. WINDY CITY TIMES June 15, 2011 5 the board didn’t feel comfortable with Jarrett saying, ‘Yeah, the board supports me.’” GLAAD under fire Bitner said in the same interview that Bar- rios is taking GLAAD in the right direction. “We had difficult economic times in 2009,” Bitner said, citing the group’s $1.2 million deficit. “But for backing merger we’re ahead of budget this year, and we’re in a more solid place fiscally than we’ve been in years.” By ERICA DEMAREST Complicating matters further is an anti-net
neutrality letter Barrios sent the FCC on Jan. 4, The Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation 2010. Net neutrality is the concept that Internet (GLAAD) came under fire last week, following a access should be free of restrictions from both turbulent media storm that’s left many second- Internet service providers and the government. guessing the organization’s leadership and goals. GLAAD has long supported net neutrality, but Amid allegations of mismanagement and trading AT&T opposes the measure, which would limit its corporate favors, some activists have called for financial gains. President Jarrett Barrios to resign. Michelangelo Signorile. On Jan. 15, 2010, Barrios sent the FCC a sec- On May 31, GLAAD submitted a letter to the ond letter asking that his Jan. 4 statement be Federal Communications Commission (FCC) en- retracted. “I have never seen this letter,” Barrios dorsing the impending merger between telecom fact, they are verifiably incorrect.” The organi- wrote, “and it is not my signature. Furthermore, giants AT&T and T-Mobile. Although opponents zation released a press statement June 7 that the contents of the letter do not accurately re- say the controversial alliance will create a mo- attempted to debunk Perper’s allegations, call- flect the views of our organization.” nopoly and drive up consumer prices, GLAAD ing them “factually inaccurate, uninformed and Perper mentioned the Jan. 4 letter in her OutQ lobbied on behalf of the deal. In a letter that misleading.” interview last week, but Barrios denied having reads like a press release for AT&T, Barrios said GLAAD released financial data that showed ever seen or approved it. He later changed his the merger would create “more access, faster Jarrett Barrios. fundraising efforts improving over the past year. story, admitting the letter did come from his of- service, and competitive pricing” that would To negate Perper’s claims that corporate backing fice and he did approve it—albeit accidentally. augment online activism efforts. has dwindled, GLAAD highlighted its work with the president,” Perper said. “I’m of the opinion “We made a mistake,” Barrios told Bilerico. “I GLAAD’s endorsement left many baffled. It IBM and American Airlines and said 2011 corpo- that the organization needs to go away and stop authorized my assistant over the phone to sign seemed odd that a leading LGBT-activism group rate support was “breaking records.” using gay dollars.” and submit [the] letter… When I realized she would take a stance on a corporate business Still, many questioned the group’s allegiance Perper claimed Barrios was an ineffective lead- had inadvertently submitted an anti-net neu- deal, and many began to question whether to AT&T. Signorile asked Barrios to appear on er who seriously jeopardized GLAAD’s fundrais- trality letter, I withdrew it. At the time, I had AT&T’s recent donation of $50,000 to GLAAD his OutQ talk show June 8, but Barrios refused ing efforts. She said his poor management led never seen the letter that was filed, and did not motivated the endorsement. to be interviewed unless he could be accompa- to the resignation of more than a dozen board recognize the signature.” Sirius XM OutQ radio host Michelangelo Signo- nied by Gary Bitner, a GLAAD board member who members and senior staffers, and she claimed GLAAD released a statement June 3 saying it rile invited Laurie Perper, a former GLAAD board heads one of the largest public-relations firms in Barrios traded favors with Troup Coronado, a does not endorse AT&T’s net neutrality position, co-chair, to his talk show June 7 to help clarify Florida. Signorile rejected interviewing the pair, GLAAD board member who once served as vice but still supports the AT&T and T-Mobile merg- GLAAD’s support. Perper, who resigned from her saying Bitner would “coach” Barrios. president of external affairs for AT&T. Perper’s er. post in October 2009 (one month after Barrios Ferraro claims that was never the goal. “The allegations made waves in the blogosphere, with Regardless of the group’s stance on AT&T, took helm of the organization), made serious al- president cannot speak on behalf of the board writers at The Atlantic, Queerty and the Bilerico many are left marveling at GLAAD’s apparent dis- legations and called for GLAAD to be dissolved. regarding board matters, which is what much Project weighing in. organization. Adam Polaski of Bilerico said, “For “The brand name has been so tarnished at this of Laurie Perper’s interview was about,” Ferraro “Laurie’s claims should not be reported as a media organization to be this off-message and point that it can’t be revived even if you could emailed. He told Bilerico last week: “If [Barrios] facts,” GLAAD Communications Director Rich out of sync with its various parts is disconcert- find a way to go in and replace the board and were to be asked, ‘Does the board support you?,’ Ferraro told Windy City Times in an email. “In ing and leaves more questions than answers.” 6 June 15, 2011 WINDY CITY TIMES The Cook County Health and Hospitals System, Bechara Choucair] to get the position filled.” which employs more than 6,000 people, does do The LGBT Office of Health does community NYC healthcare some LGBT competency training, but acknowl- engagement as well as trainings upon request edges it is not system wide. Sonja Vogel, public both internally and with providers. In the past affairs for the J.H. Stroger, Jr. Hospital of Cook they have worked with universities, particularly mandates LGBT County, said that she expects to see LGBT com- with first year medical students, with clinics and petency training increase as the organization health systems. Munoz said that the office is has recently hired a new director of Multicul- also involved with the Chicago Trans Coalition tural Affairs, Miriam Gonzalzles, who is planning and works closely with Howard Brown. cultural competency on developing LGBT competency training on a Following the announcement by the HHC, Mar- broader level. Gonzalzles will most likely work golies and Scout, Ph.D, director of the Network by Charlsie Dewey with the Ruth Rothstein CORE Center, the HIV for LGBT Health Equity, conducted a successful and infectious disease center, to develop the webinar titled “LGBT Cultural Competency Strat- On May 25, the New York City Health and Hos- training. egies” for members of the Institute for Diver- pitals Corporation (HHC) became the first pub- “The Ruth Rothstein CORE Center already do a sity in Health Management. Scout said he was lic healthcare system in the nation to mandate lot of outreach with the LGBT community,” said impressed with the number of participants from LGBT cultural competency training for all staff Vogel. the Department of Health in Illinois; thirty peo- members. Joann Montes, customer community relations ple were on the call from that office. All 38,000 employees of the HHC will now be coordinator for the CORE Center, explained, “In He said about the HHC mandate, “It’s not busi- required to participate in a training program the past we’ve had some training on cultural ness as usual for the healthcare system. They are called Reexamining LGBT Healthcare. The pro- sensitivity around LGBT issues. These were de- finally catching up with the 21st Century.” gram was developed to begin to address recent livered by the ACLU and Center on Halsted ad- Scout also noted how little choice LGBT people reports that have indicated substantial dispari- dressing access to care for the LGBT community. often have in an emergency situation in decid- ties in healthcare for LGBT people as well as to It was open to all staff but targeted our nursing ing where to go for treatment. It is imperative take action on recommendations made by the staff.” to an LGBT individual’s health that he or she is Institute of Medicine and the U.S. Department The organization is in discussion with the Cen- treated with respect every step of the way or of Health and Human Services. ter on Halstead about enhancing their training there is a greater chance that in the future that “The New York City Health and Hospitals Cor- program: “In conjunction with our Consumer person will not participate in his or her follow poration stands ready to respond to the diverse Advisory Board, we will be assessing our cultural up care or will avoid seeking treatment for a fu- needs of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender sensitivity and competency with assistance from ture illness or emergency. patients under our care and lead our colleagues the Center on Halsted and offering more training In order to really see change occur a cultural across the country in cultural competency,” said as needed. Because we are in the planning stag- shift is necessary. HHC’s decision to mandate HHC President Alan D. Aviles in the press release es of this project, we are still to decide whether LGBT competency training is an important step distributed by the HHC. “With this training, we we will be making this voluntary or mandatory in the process. It opens the door for many pa- reaffirm our commitment to serve LGBT New to all staff.” tients to feel comfortable in disclosing their full Yorkers—and all of our patients—in the most In addition, the Chicago Department of Public health information and to speak openly with respectful and responsive way, while we provide Scout. Photo courtesy of Scout Health is also working to fill a vacant director their doctor about their needs. safe, quality healthcare.” position for their LGBT Office of Health. Jose “It’s not about sensitivity. It’s about respect. The National LGBT Cancer Network worked with Munoz, deputy commissioner for community af- It’s about humanitarian response to a human HHC to create a 15 minute and 60 minute cur- everybody like they are heterosexual and that’s fairs of the Chicago Department of Public Health, being in general,” Levern Jackson, family nurse riculum. Both of which are anchored by a power- not okay,” said Margolies. “When I treat every- said, “It is a priority of the commissioners [Dr. practitioner, says in the video. ful video piece titled, “To Treat Me, You Have to body the same means I allow for a broad range Know Who I Am.” of gender and sexual expression and relationship “This is everybody and that’s the only way forms then it’s fine to treat everyone the same, Twitter to demand her release. change is going to happen, when our people but that’s not what that means today.” Lesbian Syrian After “news” of Arraf’s supposed arrest, fans can walk into a health facility and know that The 60-minute curriculum, which is not man- blogger a fraud found evidence that led back to MacMaster. datory, delves deeper into disparities experi- On June 12, MacMaster, a Middle East peace every single individual they meet, starting with Many followed the “saga” of the Syrian enced by LGBT people as well as individual and activist, apologized on the blog. “While the the very first person, will have some training in woman behind the blog “A Gay Girl in Da- system wide changes that can be made to in- narrative voice may have been fictional, the how to respectfully welcome LGBT patients into mascus,” who was supposedly kidnapped crease cultural competency in the healthcare their facility,” said Liz Margolies, founder and last week—but it turns out that it was all a facts on thıs blog are true and not mısleading environment. executive director of the National LGBT Cancer fraud. as to the situation on the ground,” he wrote. Margolies hoped that other hospital systems Network. According to the Washington Post, Tom “I do not believe that I have harmed any- will follow HHC’s lead and adopt the LGBT cul- The 15-minute curriculum addresses three key MacMaster—a 40-year-old U.S. man from one—I feel that I have created an important tural competency program that her organization points: the importance of knowing who LGBT pa- Georgia working on his master’s degree at voice for issues that I feel strongly about.” has developed. tients are, making sure that healthcare profes- the University of Edinburgh in Scotland— The BBC reported that MacMaster said, “I There are many indications that HHC will sionals do not assume heterosexuality of their had been writing the blog for years under the really felt a number of years ago, in discus- not be the only hospital to take action on the patients and understanding that it is okay to pseudonym “Amina Arraf.” sions on Middle East issues in the U.S., often recommendations for decreasing disparities in feel awkward and even make a mistake in adopt- On June 6, a post on Arraf’s website sup- when I presented real facts and opinions, the healthcare for LGBT people. Recently, the Joint ing a new approach. posedly written by her cousin said armed men immediate reaction to someone with my name Commission, the largest organization that ac- The most important point, Margolies said, is grabbed Abdallah while she was on her way to was: ‘Why are you anti-American? Why are you to realize that there is a mistake in thinking credits hospitals in the country, announced that a meeting. “Amina was seized by three men in anti-Jewish?’ “I treat everyone the same.” Instead, she said to earn accreditation a hospital is required to their early 20s,” “Rania Ismail” wrote. “One “So I invented a name to talk under that that hospital staff needs to follow a policy of have a non-discrimination policy for LGBT peo- of the men then put his hand over Amina’s would keep the focus on the actual issue.” “treating everyone the way he or she wants to ple. President Obama’s executive order on hos- mouth and they hustled her into a red Da- He added that the popularity of the blog sur- be treated.” pital visitation is also changing the landscape cia Logan.” Thousands went on Facebook and prised him. “The default assumption, the ‘I treat all peo- of patient and family rights in the healthcare ple the same,’ ultimately comes down to I treat environment.
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Flamenco & Classical Guitar s ,UNCH $INNER Valet Parking 340 W. Armitage (773) 281-9101 7 TH 3TREET s www.gejascafe.com mundialcocinamestiza.com WINDY CITY TIMES June 15, 2011 7 and pamphlets, along with costs related to the gling this along with our own separate respon- events, according to Crawford. Although Craw- sibilities. Unfortunately, I do not have a set Gay nonprofit ford had not chosen a charity benefactor as of timeframe as to how long this process will take, the press deadline, he said he plans to donate but I ensure you that we are working to get ev- the money raised from the fundraising events to erything taken care of as soon as possible so we a charity. all may pursue other avenues,” said Crawford. 1VU abruptly folds “Because we are all volunteers, we are jug-
By terrence chappell Crawford was unable to supply exact figures for The ceremony is free and open to the public. how much was raised at any of the fundraising ‘Pride and Joy’ In addition, a portion of these funds will be After much anticipation, fundraising, and com- events. He does note that with approximately earmarked to support the Hall of Fame’s Web munity outreach, One View: Uniting People 120 attendees, the charity boat cruise was the at Circuit June 20 The Chicago Gay and Lesbian Hall of Fame site, http://www.GLHallofFame.org. (1VU,) a gay nonprofit with a green focus, has most successful fundraising event for 1VU. Only will begin its 2011 fundraising efforts with its suddenly dissolved. one person purchased a $35 priced dog tag and annual Pride and Joy Reception, 6-10 p.m., at Co-founded by Stephen Crawford and partner “that person will be reimbursed,” said Crawford. Circuit Night Club, 3641 N. Halsted, on Mon- Anti-drug rally Billy Lullo in July 2010, 1VU’s mission included “I’m deeply saddened that the organization day, June 20. building a monument to LGBT military veterans ended the way it did. Unfortunately, the people June 17 The evening will feature a buffet of hors A rally to mark the 40th anniversary of for- in Space Park, 815-817 W. Roscoe. who are suffering here are the people we were d’oeuvres. The 2010 Hall of Fame exhibit will mer President Richard Nixon’s declaration of However, with 1VU’s recent reported dissolu- benefiting,” said Crawford. be on display, and nomination forms for 2011 the war on drugs will take place Friday, June tion, Americans Veterans for Equal Rights (AVER) Crawford said that, as a grassroots and vol- inductions will be available. Entertainment 17, 12-1 p.m., at the Thompson Plaza in the took over an already-planned Memorial Day unteer-based organization, “1VU did not have will be provided by members of the Circuit Loop. event in the park as a tribute to LGBT veterans. a whole lot of funding to work with” and that Night Club cast. Confirmed speakers include St. Sabina’s Fa- No monument was erected by 1VU and no one “no one took a salary.” A portion of the money Money raised from this event will be used to ther Michael Pfleger, the Chicago Coalition for was in attendance from 1VU. raised from fundraising events was put towards cover the expenses of the 2011 Chicago Gay the Homeless’ Ed Shurna and AIDS Foundation Although LGBT veteran Marquell Smith did not 1VU’s operational costs, according to Crawford. and Lesbian Hall of Fame induction ceremony, of Chicago’s Rev. Doris Green. attend the Memorial Day service at Space Park, “Any money after operational costs was going which is scheduled for Tuesday, Nov. 8, at the To RSVP for the event, call 312-341-2141 or he had been excited to learn about 1VU, its strictly towards the monument,” said Crawford. Chicago Cultural Center, 78 E. Washington. email [email protected]. Operational costs included webhosting, web de- sign services, marketing materials such as flyers GETTING A CIVIL UNION?
Jim Darby (left) said that he was “sorry to hear of 1VU’s recent” demise. mission, and its plans to honor LGBT veterans. Smith said 1VU’s status was unfortunate because its vision attracted much praise and attention for and by a segment of the LGBT community. Smith was in the Marine Corps for more than six years. “I thought they [1VU] were great in recogniz- ing a group of people who had to remain silent,” said Smith. “I think it’s disappointing.” Jim Darby, AVER’s local president, found out a day before the event that 1VU dissolved and would not be erecting the monument. Though taken back by the sudden news, Darby contin- ued with the Memorial Day ceremony to honor LGBT veterans. In moving forward, Darby and his group have plans to erect a monument honoring LGBT veterans at a famous, national cemetery. Darby was “very sorry to hear of 1VU’s recent dissolution status.” 1VU was recognized as an incorporated non- profit under Stephen Crawford July 29, 2010, KNOW YOUR RIGHTS according to Secretary of State Jesse White’s AND RESPONSIBILITIES. website. There is no record of 1VU as a regis- tered charity under the charity database of Il- SIGN UP FOR THE ILLINOIS CIVIL linois Attorney General Lisa Madigan’s website. Illinois Attorney General’s office spokesperson, UNION TRACKER. Robyn Ziegler, confirmed with Windy City Times www.lambdalegal.org/illinoistracker that the agency has never registered with that office. Since its incorporation, 1VU has carried out fundraising efforts including a Halloween party at Parlour, where the bar donated a portion of proceeds from to 1VU; a $35 charity boat cruise for last year’s Air and Water Show; and most re- cently $35 dog-tag sets and $50 engraved ver- sions with the names of service members on the back. At the time, buyers had the option to have www.lambdalegal.org/illinoistracker their tag sealed inside the monument that 1VU had planned to build. 8 June 15, 2011 WINDY CITY TIMES AIDS by 2015, and our own country’s National HIV/AIDS Strategy aims to reduce new infec- The futures of the tions by 25 percent and ensure that 90 percent of HIV-positive people receive needed testing, care, treatments and support by that same year. Reaching these targets is doable. Our actions in LGBT and HIV/AIDS the period ahead will define our generation in the face of the worse epidemic in human history. This crisis has caused too much suffering and communities: loss to relent until we have successfully changed the story of the pandemic.” —Andy Thayer, Gay Liberation Network co- founder: “Looking to the next 30 years, I be- Leaders weigh in lieve that the most important factor affecting this country’s response to AIDS, and any reform struggle which demands significant resources COMPILED by ANDREW DAVIS ple. Culturally competent and age appropriate from the public or private sector, is econom- safer sex education is necessary throughout the ics, and more specifically, class. The overall After looking at the LGBT and HIV/AIDS com- life span, and prevention efforts must be tar- trends since the mid-1970s have not only been munities’ pasts in last week’s issue, Windy City geted, expanded, and fully funded in order to the United States’ economic decline relative to Times asked the leaders of various organizations impact HIV transmission rates. It will take each most other powers, but also a gradual decline about their views and hopes for the future of one of us, working together with committed in the rate of return on productive investment LGBT individuals as well as the local HIV/AIDS and passionate effort, to ensure that we do not worldwide. Sure there will be expansions and demographic. Here is what they had to say: see another 30 years of HIV/AIDS. We can and contractions, speculative bubbles and busts, but —Bernard Cherkasov, CEO of Equality Illi- will end this pandemic for our brothers, sisters, the overall economic trend over the past four nois: “Our community has much to celebrate, friends, clients and ourselves—those living and decades is downwards. including the recent enactment of civil unions. those who we have so sorrowfully lost.” “And this affects AIDS and other issues how? —Jamal Edwards, Howard Brown Health However, we still have a long way to go. From Modesto “Tico” Valle. Already we’ve seen the start of attacks on so- transgender inclusion to federal recognition to Center CEO/president: “Howard Brown Health cial service programs across Illinois; more direct full marriage equality, we have a lot of work to Center (HBHC) has been a pillar of the LGBTQ attacks in places like Wisconsin and Ohio; and community for nearly 40 years as a community do before we have full equality. And this work tinuing along this same positive trajectory, and truly titantic struggles in places like Greece and health center, research pioneer and human ser- has to be done by every single supporter of LGBT we are building programs that help to further its Spain. vice provider. Even before the first confirmed HIV equality. All the progress we’ve made recently potential. “With the U.S. government showing no signs diagnosis and the HIV/AIDS epidemic, HBHC has has been because individuals reached out and of giving up its military domination of the been a leader in serving the unique health and “Employment programs, programs that help shared their stories with co-workers, neighbors, world—spending as much on its military as the wellness needs of the LGBTQ community, locally people ‘graduate’ from entitlements and sup- families and friends. We have to keep building rest of the world combined—there is now a bi- and nationally. ports, and ‘self-care management’ need to be our on that work.” emphasis now, creating spots in the HIV/AIDS partisan consensus that says that it is “neces- —Toni Weaver, PFLAG’s Woodstock/McHenry “Over the past 30 years of collective service in the fight against HIV/AIDS, we have learned systems for those newly diagnosed and most sary” to begin direct attacks on nearly all social County chapter: I am angered when I see HIV desperately in need of care and support. Also, service programs, from Medicare to Social Secu- portrayed in magazines as a disease that can be many things about healthcare, such as the im- portant role culturally competent and compas- of course, we still look forward to the day even rity. We already live in a country where your life easily and readily controlled with the right drug sionate primary care and research plays in pre- those programs are not needed ... when the cure expectations and opportunities are increasingly or combination of drugs. The men in the ads are venting all types of disease and improving health is discovered and widely available. governed by what class you are born into, and strong, sexy, virile, and oh, so together. Fortu- outcomes. That’s why, as we look forward, HBHC —Liz Thomson, assistant director at the it looks likely that this will accentuate over the nately, the college-age demographic with whom will be taking strategic steps to increase its pro- University of Illinois at Chicago’s Gender & next few decades. If you are among the tiny mi- I work are taking HIV prevention seriously, laud- vision of comprehensive primary care (medical, Sexuality Center: ”At UIC, we’ve had monthly nority of LGBTs who are well-to-do, this may not ing the fact that our campus (McHenry County behavioral and more) and wellness programs for testing and sexual health education through the affect you much, but for the rest of us, it very College) now offers free HIV testing monthly, all LGBTQ people, our allies and our families, Gender & Sexuality Center. My hope is that in much will. courtesy of Open Door Clinic in Elgin. I’m hope- and throughout the entire lifecyle—from birth the future, students see being tested as norma- “Finally, as history has repeatedly shown, eco- ful that we’ll see a cure for HIV/AIDS within 20 through aging. tive as their annual dentist visit; that the fear nomic crises have a nasty way of giving birth years. Until then, practice safe sex. Be smart. “As more and more of us are being united or and stigma is lessened. I also hope funding is to nasty, scapegoating political movements. The Don’t break your parents’ hearts. married under law and creating families; as the increased for all levels—prevention education, most extreme example of this was the rise of the —Modesto “Tico” Valle, CEO of Center on colors, languages and religious views of our testing services and post-testing care.” Nazis, which virtually obliterated the epicenter Halsted: “We have more adults over the age of community become more diverse; and, as more —David Ernesto Munar, AIDS Foundation of of the world’s first gay movement in Weimar Ger- 50 living with HIV than ever before, as more and of us are aging proudly and beautifully, HBHC Chicago president: “After 30 years, the fight many. I’m not saying that anything like this is more people are able to live decades longer than is excited about what the future holds for the against HIV/AIDS has reached a critical junc- on the horizon right now, but the scapegoating they used to with the help of medications. HIV LGBTQ community and is proud to be of service ture. We now have the essential tools and tech- politics of the Tea Partiers, especially towards can complicate the aging process, and we must as the LGBTQ community’s lifeline.” nical know-how to make unprecedented progress immigrants and public sector workers, shows adapt new ways to ensure the health and quality —The Rev. Stan Sloan, CEO of Chicago reducing new HIV infections and saving lives. that we can ill afford to be complacent. of life for our seniors. House: “Chicago House has had the great for- “The recent high-level meeting on HIV/AIDS “If we are going to ensure a scientific, com- “Additionally, we need to revamp our preven- tune of seeing HIV/AIDS medications move from at the United Nations resulted in the nations in passionate response to AIDS, we must be vigi- tion efforts across the board, as HIV infection being non-existent to being available and life- the world agreeing to a declaration to increase lant in preventing these irrational elements from rates are rising in both older and younger peo- sustaining. We see the future of HIV/AIDS con- HIV treatments to 15 million people with HIV/ gaining the upper hand in U.S. politics. One necessary lesson we must learn from the history of all such previous scapegoating movements, is CHICAGO PUBLIC LIBRARY celebrates that ‘mainstream’ politicians of both parties will not do this for us. In fact, their behavior is of- ten directly responsible for enabling the rise of Queertopia: The Anti–Violence Project these irrationalist elements.” —Julio Rodriguez, Association of Latino Based on true stories of youths in Chicago Men for Action board president: “As a 50-plus Latino gay man, when I think about the first Tuesday, June 21 at 4 p.m. time, I really learned about HIV/AIDS, when YOUmedia, 1ST Floor someone I knew, my friend Lau, found out he was positive in 1986. I just couldn’t help think Harold Washington Library Center that this horrible thing that was happening to 400 South State Street my friends and my community, that people ev- (312) 747–4300 erywhere wouldn’t find it in their hearts to look pass their prejudices, ignorance and politics to The lives of Chicago youths Flea, Teddy and Lexi are revealed do something to help; unfortunately, I was very wrong. as Queertopia ties the complexity of identity to relationships “Now years later, I still find myself asking the with the distinctive About Face brand of humor and poignancy. same questions. Why are people continuing to PRIDE let prejudice, ignorance and political ideology Presented by About Face Theatre guide the way they look at this disease and the MONTH people whose lives it still affects and the indi- For more information about LGBT Pride Month programming visit chipublib.org. viduals who are impacted but invisible to soci- ety, like the undocumented or immigrants? With every new law that gets passed in this country june 2011 Turn to page 9 WINDY CITY TIMES June 15, 2011 9 AFC president EUROPEAN LUXURY WITHIN REACH gets national honor By Ross Forman
David Ernesto Munar, president of the AIDS Foun- dation of Chicago (AFC), was filled with emo- tion at his latest honor, courtesy of the White House—although he is not even certain how his name got in the mix for the award. This month, the White House announced Mu- nar as one of nine Champions of Change in the fight against HIV/AIDS. The other honorees are Jury Candelairo, Christian F. Castro, Dee Dee Ngozi Chamblee, Hadiya Charles, Dena Fontno- Gray, Beri Hull, Cleve Jones and Ron Simmons. “It’s a tremendous honor and I’m thrilled the White House chose to commemorate this emo- tional milestone in the company of openly HIV- positive advocates from across the country,” said Munar, 41, who lives in Chicago’s Lincoln Square neighborhood. EUROLUXE “For me, this honor represents a new outlet to promote all the incredible hard work and ac- INTERIORS complishments we are making collectively in Chicago to respond to the burgeoning epidemic. We should all be proud of the united and col- laborative response by local agencies and gov- ernments to the HIV/AIDS crisis. While we have tremendous unmet need and hard work ahead, 3066 N. LINCOLN AVE. we can be proud of the systems we’ve put in David Ernesto Munar. Photo by Andrew place in these last three decades.” Collings CHICAGO Munar assumed the title of AFC’s president in January, replacing friend Mark Ishaug. “AFC and our partners in Chicago have pio- “This honor is a very nice addition to my re- neered creative system-level approaches to ad- sume and my agency’s homepage,” Munar said. dress needs in our large metro area,” Munar said. “I hope it generates renewed enthusiasm for “I hope this [honor] shines a light on our great 773-270-0030 AFC’s important work, events, and services.” accomplishments and results in more communi- So how and why was Munar considered for the ties and causes, beyond HIV, adopting the best aware? lessons we’ve learned in creating integrated, www.euroluxeinteriors.com That’s a mystery, even to Munar. collaborative approaches. Our system is by no “I’ve enjoyed a great working relationship means perfect or adequately funded, but I think with Jeff Crowley, Director of the White House we have demonstrated a strong commitment to Office of National AIDS Policy, and his staff do all we can, in a collective manner, with the on issues pertaining to the National HIV/AIDS scarce resources at our disposal.” Strategy, so this may have contributed to my nomination, but I’m not entirely sure who initi- ated this recognition or why I was selected over many other hard-working, dedicated advocates,” NEA-GLBT Munar said. caucus holding “[This award] is very special. My sister thought I was presented with some sort of presidential reception, dinner metal of honor, so I had to explain to her that The National Education Association’s this was more of a professional commendation (NEA’s) GLBT caucus will hold its Ichabod and [a] chance to brief high-ranking federal Crane reception Thursday, June 30, at Side- decision-makers about my views on 30 years of track, 3356 N. Halsted, 6:30-9 p.m. This the pandemic and the important lessons to keep event is free for caucus members. in mind as we chart the next phase of the fight In addition, the caucus will hold its Rob- against HIV/AIDS. ert Birle Memorial Dinner Sunday, July 3, at “I certainly never imagined any [honor] like the Chicago Hilton, 720 S. Michigan. The this. It’s great to be recognized, but the work reception is 6-7:30 p.m.; dinner and danc- itself, on an issue so near and dear to my heart, ing will follow. Tickets are $75 each; see is by itself enormously rewarding. This is icing http://www.nea-glbtcdinner.com. on the cake.” For more information, email csmiller@ Hopefully Munar’s honor will shine further on pacbell.net. AFC, he said.
are sometimes invisible to us and the rest of FUTURE from page 8 society.” —Karen Sendziak, Gerber/Hart Library that moves the gay-rights movement further president: “Gerber/Hart Library and Archives towards true equality, I am concerned that looks forward to the end of AIDS. We look some individuals have forgotten that we still forward to the time when our repository, and have members of our community who are others, will pull dusty books about AIDS from fighting every day to get access to vital medi- the shelves. We look forward to a time when cations, good basic healthcare. we receive our last request from our last re- “Now, under the healthcare-reform laws, searcher who wants to study AIDS. We look some members of our community (the un- forward to the time when the last lid on the documented) will no longer be able to access final box of papers of an AIDS organization resources to prevent or treat this horrible can be closed and won’t ever be open again. disease. My hope—as our battle to get full May the lessons that need to be learned from equality at federal, state and local levels con- the history of this epidemic be learned so tinues—is that, as a community, we remem- that the unbearable toll of human suffering ber that we still have an ongoing war to win never revisit the earth again.” against HIV/AIDS and its one whose victims 10 June 15, 2011 WINDY CITY TIMES she said, presented no opportunity to differenti- to be the most attention-getting debate in the ate her family from a heterosexual, non-trans- community these days, it can be become a focal Civil-union law a identified one. Neither organization responded point for that feeling,” Silverman said. “It raises to her e-mail messages expressing concern over the question if we are missing a major oppor- what she considered to be an oversight. tunity to talk about trans people and how their victory for trans “There are aspects of our live every single day families are just like anyone else’s family by not that are impacted by the fact that we’re a trans- including trans voices in the marriage equality identified family,” she said. “It was incredibly discussion.” community as well disheartening to see even organizations that “But ultimately we rise and fall together,” he have worked very hard for this civil union law added. By Joseph Erbentraut In addition to their civil-union ceremony, they will also be celebrating son Alex’s eight-grade For Chicagoan Vicki Byard, June 16 is a day she graduation before their friends and family the is anticipating gleefully. That day, she and her same weekend. partner have planned to mark their new civil union before family and friends. The union, Byard said, is particularly meaning- Hundreds of ful to her family because, as a trans-identified couples apply for couple, she and her partner have struggled with a great deal of stigma from both inside and civil-union licenses outside of the LGBT community. With their new by Kate Sosin legal recognition arrives a moment the couple, together for two years and the parents of two Within the first week since the Illinois Re- children (Kate, 11, and Alex, 14) who Byard ad- ligious Freedom Protect and Civil Union Act opted as newborns, can’t wait to celebrate. went into effect in Illinois, more than 800 “To us, it’s a really pivotal celebratory time,” couples have registered for licenses in the she told Windy City Times. “I feel that my fam- state. ily will be united in a way I’ve never had in my Official statistics for the entire state will entire life to this point.” not be available for months, but Windy City Yet, the moment is also bittersweet as Byard Times polled Cook County and the 12 other has felt frustration with the fact that little me- The Byard family: Kate, Alex, Vicki and Eli (from left). Photo courtesy of Vicki Byard counties with the largest populations to dia coverage of the Illinois civil union victory get a picture of just how many couples are has featured families that “look like hers,” as registering for unions. she explained. “Marriage didn’t feel entirely comfortable be- As of June 9, 471 licenses had been is- While her partner, Eli, identifies as a trans- cause we’re a trans-identified family and it felt not realize that there are more families impacted sued in Cook County, which issued 203 of gender man and she as a cisgender woman, like we were somehow finding a loophole,” Byard by the law than solely those identifying as either those licenses in just the first day, June 1. qualifying them in the eyes of the law as a het- said. “We would be taking advantage of certain same-sex or heterosexual couples. We shouldn’t By the following Monday, the county had erosexual or different-sex couple, they do not sorts of rights others in the LGBT community be overlooked.” issued 366. identify with that designation themselves. Their couldn’t have. For us, that wasn’t a choice we Representatives from both organizations de- No other county came close to match- discomfort with being “lumped in” with hetero- would consider.” fended their “tracker,” created so that newly ing Cook, but most had reported at least sexual couples made them hesitant to marry. A The North Park couple’s unique identity has left civil-unionized couples could more easily ac- 20 licenses obtained. DuPage issued 42 li- civil union represents the achievement of the le- them in a bit of a no-man’s land that was most cess legal resources should they encounter any censes, while Will County issued 41. Of the gal recognition they need without the baggage recently reflected when Byard was signing the hassles, but acknowledged that feelings of being 12 other counties polled, at total of 346 of a categorization that felt disingenuous, she couple up for the Equality Illinois- and Lambda excluded from broader LGBT victories can be all licenses were issued. added. Legal-sponsored Civil Union Tracker. The tracker, too common within the community. Lake County, which is the third largest in This victory is, indeed, a significant moment the state, issued just 24. for trans Illinoisans in opening the door for legal Many of the counties interviewed have recognition of queer couples of all types, said M. also installed systems on their websites Dru Levasseur, Lambda Legal transgender rights to allow couples to apply for civil union attorney. licenses online, and others are advertising “We are always fighting for people to have the similar programs coming soon. most rights they can have and, for trans people, Champaign is one county with an online we want their gender identity to be respected system up and running. Champaign boasted at the same time,” Levasseur told Windy City a large number of couples registering given Times. “The bottom line is we all benefit from its population, reporting 37 licenses. marriage equality.” Peoria, which also processed the state’s Trans couples sometimes find themselves in first same-sex divorce filing on June 1, has legally precarious positions where recognition issued just 19 licenses. (See page 13 for is either incomplete, fleeting or not there at more on said divorce.) all, particularly in situations where one part- Of course, not all of those unions are ner within a heterosexual marriage transitions, same-sex. In Cook County, 18 of the li- drawing that marriage into a legal gray area due censes were unions between a male and to the Defense of Marriage Act. female. Female same-sex couples got more While some judges who have encountered the civil union licenses than male couples in issue in court have both respected a trans per- Cook County, with 245 licenses as opposed son’s gender identity and relationship, that has to 208. often not been the case in states lacking mar- In Cook, 303 of the couples reside in riage equality for LGBT persons, as evidenced in Chicago. Oak Park, which issued 15, and the case of Nikki Araguz, the trans widow of a Evanston, which had 23, had the most in firefighter. Following his death, his family sued the suburbs. Araguz in an attempt to block her from receiv- According to Courtney Greve at the Cook ing her late husband Thomas’ death benefits. A County Clerk’s office, the county has also Texas judge ruled last month that, indeed, their issued civil union licenses to couples in In- marriage was invalid because Araguz is a trans diana, Wisconsin, Missouri and Kentucky. woman. It is possible that not every license is- Despite the struggles of some, others in the sued will result in a civil union. Couples trans community simply do not identify with the have 70 days to tie the knot and send that issue of marriage, which appears connected to paperwork to their county clerk’s office. a certain invisibility when it comes to conver- Those offices have 45 days to report unions sations of marriage equality. Michael Silverman, to the Illinois Department of Public Health. executive director of the New York-based Trans- Consequently, official numbers won’t start gender Legal Defense and Education Fund, noted becoming available for at least 115 days, the organizational messaging around the Empire mid-September. State’s campaign for marriage equality has large- Here are the counties surveyed and their ly been painted as an LGB issue, a fact he finds reported numbers as of June 10: Cook: 471, troubling. DuPage: 42, Lake: 24, Will: 41, Kane: 31, “There’s an overarching question we often see McHenry: 18, Winnebago: 24, Madison: 28, in the trans community concerning where we St. Clair: 20, Sangamon: 29, Champaign: are reflected in the larger LGBT community and 37, Peoria: 19 and McLean: 33. since the marriage equality debate is seeming WINDY CITY TIMES June 15, 2011 11 Mike McRaith Michael McRaith. starts new chapter Photo by in Washington, D.C. Ross Forman
By Ross Forman going to do my best—however constrained that might be—to make a difference.” There is great joy and great sadness for Mike McRaith, 45, left his West Lakeview home this McRaith who, on Monday, June 13, started his past weekend while thousands attended Ander- new job as the new director of the Federal Insur- sonville’s popular street fair—where McRaith ance Office (FIO), based in Washington, D.C. admitted he wanted to be. The office has bipartisan support, is widely Recently, there have been emotions aplenty accepted as a necessary step in the evolution for McRaith, who was an integral part of the of financial sector regulation—and McRaith said basketball competition at the 2006 Gay Games he’s “fortunate, honored and deeply humbled” to in Chicago and a participant in the annual Coady companies. April for the 2012 Coady Classic. be appointed to the post. Roundball Classic, the nation’s largest and lon- “There were challenges that I never could “We’re very lucky to be gay for many reasons,” However, that also meant saying goodbye to gest-running gay basketball tournament, since have envisioned, but, through those challenges, McRaith said. “One of the most important rea- Chicago. 1991. the time has gone real fast.” sons for me is the great variety of people who “On a deeply personal level, there was a great “We have accomplished many great things in However, as he said goodbye to his ninth-floor we get to spend time with, interact with—that’s reluctance to leave the City of Chicago, to leave the last six-plus years, especially the last few office at the Thompson Center, McRaith made socially, athletically, in community programs, the friends, to leave the [LGBT] community that years with Gov. Quinn’s leadership,” McRaith sure he saluted those around him. During his whatever and wherever. The [LGBT] community we are so lucky to have in Chicago. I’ve been said. “Just this session, we passed the most ex- photo shoot for Windy City Times, for instance, is such an integral part of who I am and not a through a lot with a lot of great people here in pansive mental health parity law in the country; McRaith personally asked if the publication could day passes when I don’t feel grateful for just Chicago, so, my first reaction was, what a loss it we passed worker’s compensation reform, civil photograph him along with his administrative being able to live here and just have the friends will be on a personal level to leave Chicago.” unions, and much more. It’s been a great privi- assistants, Blanca Repetto and Betty Veasey. who I do. There are so many great people in That means, for instance, missing Ander- lege, and I say this with a profound sense of He also said goodbye to his beloved Chicago Chicago.” sonville’s annual Midsommarfest, which, for humility, to work as the Director of Insurance Cubs, at least on a local basis, as well as the There are great events, too, such as the count- McRaith, has long meant hanging with friends, in Illinois, working on behalf of the people who Chicago Bulls. drinking beer out of plastic cups and listening to are unable to hire lobbyists, representatives … McRaith also said farewell to his basketball Turn to page 13 Sixteen Candles. people who need someone to represent them. teammates, although he plans to return next “Those were great days, great memories,” said “It’s very humbling in the sense that the re- McRaith, who has spent the past two years as sponsibilities are enormous, so too have been the head of the Illinois Department of Insur- the challenges—but it’s been a great, rewarding ance. experience. There are the practical, functional, HAPPY PRIDE FROM McRaith is the first person to hold this new regulatory responsibilities that include solvency job, and was appointed by Treasury Secretary of the insurance companies, the policy forms EXPOSITION FLOORING DESIGN CENTER, INC. Timothy Geithner. McRaith will serve as a non- [that] properly [need to be] drafted, to handling voting member on a new federal panel created complaints for individual consumers who have 5718 N. Broadway, Chicago, IL to determine which financial firms present a risk problems with an insurance company. etc.” to the financial system and be the U.S.’s pub- McRaith said the most rewarding aspect of his lic face in negotiating international insurance Illinois job was the people he worked with— #ARPET s 2UGS s 7OOD agreements. from all over the state and the country. “It’s The FIO was created in 2010, and McRaith is a wonderfully diverse and generally decent 4ILE s ,AMINATE required to submit a report to Congress by early [state],” said McRaith, fighting back tears. 2012 on how best to modernize and improve in- “It feels as if just a week ago I left the law 773-784-5600 surance regulation. firm where I was a partner; it’s been very fast. “I was fortunate enough to be a partner at Tremendous challenges too, of course. We had Fax: 773-784-4177 a great law firm and when [the job as head of not just tremendous public-policy opportunities Family Owned for 39 Years the Illinois Department of Insurance] was pre- under Gov. Quinn’s leadership, but [also] the sented, my thought was [that] it was my chance greatest economic collapse in our country since Hours: Monday: Friday 10 am – 8 pm to do my part, to make a difference,” McRaith the Great Depression—and the insurance sector Saturday: 10 am – 5 pm said. “My view about my new job is the same. I’m was right in the middle through AIG and other Sunday: Noon – 5 pm
f or Th t , I g e c re u Ad tu es mi e. a l ty t s ral at the Lak cu i o it’s the f c he wh pect — axll o ar at you’d ex is the ebe stn e ws d fo fr T h vie te r om d the theatre, the n me a life coach an wa W r p Building A Community One always l. h ate y: life. We oo at nt attorne a p p is Unique Person At A Time. a place with t u r livin out ea s u g with ow-s p i n g We’re front-r o a y o u r , s s s kind of people i o n s ? y we’re read Jim & Lois Hobart art enthusiasts, devoted urbanites
Welcome Center Vibrant Lakefront Living With A Complete Plan For The Future Through Lifecare. 1055 W. Bryn Mawr Ave., Suite 7 We Welcome And Serve A Diverse Group Of People. Chicago, IL 60660 (773) 433-1800 | www.Admiral.Kendal.org 12 June 15, 2011 WINDY CITY TIMES Lesbian activist Mona Noriega honored Noriega on new post
By Kate Sosin
Less than a week after Mona Noriega became one of the first in Illinois history to get a civil union, the longtime lesbian activist celebrated her confirmation as the new commissioner of the Chicago Department on Human Relations June 8. LGBT activists across the city lauded Mayor Rahm Emanuel over his decision to appoint Noriega, who co-founded Amigas Latinas as well as the Lambda Legal Defense and Education Fund Mid- west Regional Office. Windy City Times caught up with Noriega after her confirmation to talk about her plans as com- missioner, her thoughts on the mayor’s commit- ment to LGBT issues and just how far the city has come in promoting diversity. Community activists and friends honored Mona Noriega, the city’s new commissioner of Windy City Times: So, I have to ask: You The Department of Human Relations, on June 13. must have been surprised by this appoint- Noriega, who co-founded Amigas Latinas and the Lambda Legal Defense and Education Mona Noriega. Photo by Hal Baim ment? Fund Midwest Regional Office, was greeted with loud applause from all who attended the Mona Noriega: Oh, yeah; I was surprised–ab- reception at the National Museum of Mexican Art. here that when incidents of hate are reported solutely. But you know once they asked me if In attendance were longtime activists from Amigas Latinas, the Association of Latino Men to them, they go out to the community and talk I wanted to do it, I was like “absolutely.” But, for Action, The Civil Rights Agenda, the Center on Halsted, and Chicago Dyke March Collec- to people, try some interventions, educate them yeah, I was, I was surprised. ... This is an hon- tive, Affinity Community Services, the AIDS Foundation of Chicago (AFC), and the Gender about what a hate crime is and what the penal- or. I’m honored that the mayor asked me to do and Sexuality Center. ties are and try to resolve any conflicts so that this. Community members praised Noriega’s longtime commitment to community and activ- you prevent hate crimes. ... I’m still trying to WCT: Tell me about your sense of the mayor ism. meet everybody, talk with everybody, get an idea and LGBT issues. “Mona, what you created was nothing short of magical,” said Rosa Yadira Ortiz from Ami- of what people do, how it intersects with each MN: The one thing that I’ve become more clear gas Latinas. “Thanks to your leadership, Latina LBQ women have been able to have a home other, so you’ll have to ask me like six months about the mayor is he really does value equal- away from home.” from now. But right now I’m really interested in ity. The issues that are really important to me, David Ernesto Munar, president of AFC, said he “couldn’t think of a better person” for the trying to understand what the work is, how the I think he really [also feels they are relevant]. I job. “Why the City didn’t pick you 15 years ago…” he said, trailing off with laughter. work happens, how it flows. What are the out- don’t think it is just lip service; I think he really “This work is not really about any one of us,” Noriega said. “It’s not about what any one comes? Are they efficient? Are they effective? does value them—and that’s refreshing. of us achieves because without one of us, without each one of us coming out and making a WCT: Are there any issues that you are pas- WCT: For people who are not familiar with statement and working together, we would not have this community that we have here.” sionate about that you feel like the commis- the role of the Commission on Human Rela- The city council confirmed Noriega’s appointment June 8. Text by Kate Sosin and photo by sion has yet to take up? tions, can you explain why it is important Tracy Baim; more online at http://www.WindyCityMediaGroup.com MN: No. The issues that I’m really passionate both in the LGBT community and generally? about are pretty well-represented here, actually. MN: The commission actually has a mandate WCT: What are the issues that you’re pas- to enforce the human rights ordinance and the sionate about? Fair Housing Act, and those are both about ad- MN: Well, [there are] immigration issues. We
E dressing discriminatory behavior. LGBT is one of have an Advisory Council in Immigration Issues,
H many categories that are protected classes, so LGBT, there’s a Women’s Advisory Council. There T it’s important not just to the LGBT community
are currently councils that address the issues but all communities that might be victims of E that are of concern to me. There are eight advi- discrimination. B sory councils. [Also,] I’m not a veteran, but I’m GENERATION WCT: What about the job appeals most to concerned about that. I’m not African-American, you? but I am concerned about those issues. MN: Well, there’s an opportunity to work on is- WCT: A lot of LGBT people are really excited TO FIND A VACCINE TO sues of equality. You know, none of us are single- about your appointment and that’s not only issue people. You know, who we are is multiple because you are respected in the community things and so I’m always happy to try to work but that you really represent the community on issues of equality. To have this opportunity and its history. How far has Chicago come in to do it—oh my God, it’s amazing. PREVENT your lifetime? WCT: Is there anything within the commis- MN: Well, in my lifetime in Chicago, Chicago sion you are looking to improve or change? was notorious for raiding bars and enforcing the MN: Right now my first task is to understand law that required three pieces of clothing that how the commission works. The mayor’s man- were appropriate to the wearer. So to come from date is that everybody look at their department that to the state endorsing civil unions is quite and evaluate them for what they do and how to HIV a lot in a lifetime. improve on efficiencies. How can we do it bet- ter? So I’m really in the process of just under- standing what people do here. WCT: What do you think are some key issues Parade names the commission needs to be taking on? FIND OUT HOW YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE AT MN: Well, you know, right now the mandate grand marshal www.bethegeneration.nih.gov is to look at what the commission currently The grand marshal for the Chicago 42nd does—which is about discrimination—and to Annual Pride Parade on Sunday, June 26, is see how we can do that better. It’s about all Fernanda Rocha, the newest cast member discrimination; it’s about the protected classes. of the Real Housewives of Orange County So everybody here is committed to fighting dis- on the Bravo Network. crimination and we do that through education, This is the sixth season of the hit fran- mediation, enforcing the law around those two chise and Rocha is the first lesbian cast ordinances. member. We also address hate crimes. We offer support The parade itself—which kicks off at services to hate-crime victims. We try to prevent 12 p.m. at Halsted and Belmont in Lake hate crimes. View—will feature 250 registered entries WCT: There has been some debate in past including floats, decorated vehicles, perfor- years about how effective the commission mance groups a marching band and walking contingents. Hundreds of thousands of at- can be in preventing hate crimes. What does tendees are expected. the commission do currently to prevent hate violence and is that something you are look- ing at improving at all? MN: There’s the Intergroup Relations Unit WINDY CITY TIMES June 15, 2011 13 First same-sex divorce filed in Illinois
By Kate Sosin ing career. “Among the complaints in this petition is that
At the same moment that many LGBT couples Dr. Fredrick knowingly and willfully denied Mr. ! were waiting in line for the first civil-union Bayer equitable career opportunities, financial licenses in Illinois on the morning of June 1, security and emotional support,” the statement one Peoria man was filing for the state’s first said. same-sex divorce. Citing “mental cruelty and ir- Haid said that because Bayer put his career G reconcilable differences,” Mark Bayer filed for a on hold to renovate the Bayer-Fredrick’s home divorce from Dr. Nathan Fredrick, his husband of and because Bayer is now unable to work, he five years. is entitled to alimony. Haid would not disclose Bayer’s attorney, Joshua P. Haid, submitted in what form or amount Bayer was seeking ali- the paperwork June 1 at 8:30 a.m., when the mony. Peoria County Circuit Court opened for business, “He is seeking the same spousal rights that the first moment possible to file for a same-sex anyone would be,” Haid told Windy City Times. divorce in Peoria. Consequently, he is thought to Illinois will likely see other same-sex divorces be the first person to file for a same-sex divorce as the advent of civil unions allow same-sex in Illinois history. couples to now dissolve marriages and unions Haid released a statement about the split later they got in other states like Iowa, where same- that day, saying that Bayer was seeking alimo- sex marriage has been legal for more than two ny. years. “This is about recognizing that partners in In Cook County, Circuit Court Clerk Dorothy a same-sex marriage now have equal rights to Brown released a statement June 1, stating that partners of traditional marriage under the law in her office was prepared to handle same-sex di- Illinois,” Haid said in the statement. vorces. In 2006, Bayer and Fredrick eloped to Quebec “Of course, we wish everyone joined together City, Canada, because they could not legally wed in a civil union a long and happy life together, in South Carolina, where they lived at the time, but if there is a need for a dissolution, then we according to the statement. Two years later, the are ready with the necessary court forms.” said couple relocated to Peoria with Bayer’s son from Brown in the release. a previous marriage because Fredrick, who is an Haid would not say how long his client had emergency room physician, had been offered a been waiting to get a divorce, and Bayer de- job. Haid said that Bayer left his lifelong home clined to be interviewed. in Myrtle Beach to support Fredrick’s career, put- Haid told Windy City Times that he and his ting his own nursing career on hold. client chose to release information about the Bayer spent the next two years rehabbing two divorce because he knew the news would be historical houses that the couple purchased con- important to LGBT people. “The historical sig- secutively. According to a 2010 article in the nificance is that many of the rights conferred HAPPENIN Peoria Journal Star, the couple sold the first through marriage become very important when renovated house when they saw a house across someone gets a divorce,” he said. Macy’s salutes Pride Month! the street go up for sale, and Bayer stayed home Despite the timing, Haid said that he and his S to renovate the second property while Fredrick client were not aiming to make history when Macy’s on State Street at Noon continued to work. they filed. “I think it just sorta came out that Handbag Department, Main Floor way,” he said. “I just had to be [at the court- According to Haid, Bayer seriously injured his nd back during the second renovation and had to house] early that day.” Men’s Impulse Department, 2 Floor at 5:30pm undergo multiple surgeries, forfeiting his nurs- Wednesday, June 22
MCRAITH from page 11 he was going to be a superstar, and he proved me right,” Ishaug said of McRaith. “Soon af- Show your Pride! less street fairs and gatherings sponsored by ter I was named CEO of AFC I recruited him You’re invited to a special musical lunch hour such organizations as the AIDS Foundation to the board [of directors] for his leadership presented by the talented Chicago Gay Men’s of Chicago (AFC)—as well as the groups’ per- skills, community connections, legal insights Chorus and one of the most compelling duos sonnel. The same holds true for the American and fundraising prowess. But mostly I wanted in cabaret today, Beckie Menzie and Tom Foundation For Suicide Prevention, an asso- him because he was smart and kind and de- Michael. The celebration continues at 5:30pm ciation near and dear to McRaith; his former termined to help us improve the lives of those with a special reception where you can mix and partner took his life about 15 years ago. living with, and affected by, HIV/AIDS. mingle and groove to the sounds of our DJ! “The opportunity to be part of something “It’s been amazing to witness his meteoric that is bigger than the individual. … I think rise in Illinois government and we are all so that’s what makes our community so special, lucky that he is taking his skills and his pas- Then, check out the special fashion presentation hosted by two- the awareness that we’re all in this together,” sion to D.C., to have an even bigger impact. time Olympic fi gure skater and fashion icon on ice, Johnny Weir. said McRaith, who tagged AFC’s 25th anniver- And how lucky for me personally to have such Representatives from Center on Halsted, a community that offers support sary gala, held in 2010, as one of his most a friend and colleague in D.C. with me. AIDS networks and programming to meet the cultural, emotional, social, K WHAT’ memorable Chicago moments. United [where I now work] will be in touch educational and recreational needs of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and “That [gala] really stands out. The room soon, Mr. McRaith.” transgender community and friends, will be on hand to accept donations in was filled with people who had spent, in some support of their valuable organization. And, with any $100 Men’s purchase cases, decades fighting HIV and AIDS, and More Michael McRaith: during the event, you’ll receive an autographed copy* of Johnny Weir’s also hundreds of people who lived through —Gay sports: Has also played flag football autobiography, Welcome to My World. that era when gay men were dying weekly, or and tennis in Chicago daily, in Chicago’s gay community. That eve- —On Washington D.C.’s gay community: ning was so unique and so empowering. It “It’s very different in that very few are origi- For more details, visit macys.com/events felt like the fight was worth it. So many of us, nally from D.C. It appears to be as diverse, as OO myself included, owe so much to the men in warm and as welcoming as Chicago.” our community who died.” —Things you will miss about Chicago: Bicy-
Quinn attended the gala, among other lu- cling along the lakefront, long runs along the L minaries, “and it truly was a great night and a lakefront while listening to music, the great reminder that the fight is worth it,” McRaith restaurants, and listening to live music, such said. as 2010 Lollapalooza McRaith and former AFC President Mark —On Gov. Quinn: “He is really a good man Ishaug had been friends for 18 years, dating and really cares about doing the right thing. back to an intense Victory Fund training for I say that because it’s been an unmitigat- gay and lesbian political leaders in the mak- ed privilege to work with Gov. Quinn. Civil FIND MACY'S ing. unions would not have passed if not for his EVERYWHERE! Events subject to change or “I knew [during] that [training] weekend hard work.” Shop, share and cancellation. *While supplies last.. connect anytime.
N1050533A.indd 1 6/2/11 2:14:02 PM 14 June 15, 2011 WINDY CITY TIMES different opportunities that I wouldn’t have your face, not so bold, but yet kind of bright.” even ran into if I’d still been in the corporate The bag will be carried in major cities such Lesbian artist part of world.” as Chicago and Los Angeles. A complete list of This month, Kennedy is set to embark on her locations can be obtained from supplier.diver- biggest opportunity to date. She is the first [email protected]. Walgreens initiative member of the LGBT community to be featured “Like the other diverse supplier groups we’ve in Walgreens’ Community Corner initiative. A recognized through the program, the LGBT com- BY ERICA DEMAREST supplier diversity program that just entered its munity is loyal and has strong purchasing pow- second year, the Community Corner showcases er,” said Walgreens Senior Director of Supplier Jacquelyn Kennedy was walking down West Pico products from minority designers. It’s featured Diversity Gleatha Glispie in a press release. “We Boulevard in her native Los Angeles in early women, African Americans and Latinos in the feel confident that shoppers will be pleased to 2010 when something caught her eye: a “For past. see the Pride bag at their neighborhood Wal- rent” sign in one of the storefront’s windows. In honor of Pride month, Walgreens will begin greens and will recognize the opportunity to The artist and T-shirt designer had rented selling in mid-June an 18-pack cooler bag de- support a small, community-built business.” space in that same building almost a decade signed by Kennedy. Perfect for toting beverages For her part, Kennedy is thrilled to be the new earlier and dreamed of opening her own bou- at Pride parades, the black bag will be avail- face of the Community Corner, especially during tique there. “There was never a storefront avail- able in nearly 100 stores for $19.99 while sup- Pride month. “Looking at me, you would never able because people would stay there forever,” plies last. It features a rainbow yin-yang symbol think I was part of the LGBT community, you Kennedy said. “When I noticed [the sign], I was meant to promote inclusivity. know, with kids,” said the African-American like, ‘Ooh, I need that space. I want that.’” “I wanted to do something that was universal, mother of three. “People like me need to come Kennedy called the landlord, inquired about yet really, really for the LGBT,” Kennedy said. out more so that other people can feel comfort- rent prices and submitted a deposit the next day. “Now, when you get into the yin-yang, that able knowing that it’s okay… We need to be She gave her two weeks’ notice at the “nine-to- Jacquelyn Kennedy. Photo from Kennedy could be anybody. There’s a little bit of boy and more visible.” five” academic counseling job she’d held for the girl in all of us. There’s a little bit of masculine Find out more about Dewberries at http:// past several years, and went home to tell her things outside of work, but there was never energy, but there’s feminine energy as well… I www.luvthatdewberries.com. partner, popular Latina comic Sandra Valls, what just wanted to do something that wasn’t so in she’d done. enough time.” When she saw that fateful ‘for “I was like, ‘Excuse me?!’” Valls recalled, laugh- rent’ sign, Kennedy knew she had to go for it. vice providers throughout Chicago about the ing. “She gave up this six-figure job… I didn’t She launched Dewberries Boutique in July Walgreens carries FC2, said she often piques people’s interest have any doubts about Jackie, but in general in 2010. The hip, colorful store caters to women and then can’t direct them to an accessible my life, I’m more of a ‘measure twice, cut once’ and the LGBT community. It carries a well-cu- female condoms product in a local store. Walgreens’ decision type of person. And she’s just like, ‘I’m going to rated collection of predominantly “rainbow and BY ERICA DEMAREST will change that, she said. make it happen because I’m going to make it blingy” clothing, accessories and jewelry from Walgreens has almost 7,700 stores na- happen.’ And that’s it. Just do it. Just believe local designers, and highlights Kennedy’s own With the decision to carry the newest ver- tionwide, and it’s selling the FC2 in 400 of it.’” Dewberries t-shirt line. The line features stylized sion of female condoms in 400 of its stores, them—only about 5 percent. Pietrandoni said Born and raised in Los Angeles, Kennedy has illustrations of women with attitude; its hall- Walgreens has become the first—and only— the decision is strategic. Not every commu- had a creative streak since she was a child. Con- mark image portrays a Black woman in a bikini, pharmacy chain to stock female condoms na- nity has a demand for female condoms, he stantly drawing and designing, she studied at hand on her hip, rocking a huge afro. tionwide. said; those that do will stock FC2s. If demand the Fashion Institute of Design and Marketing Dewberries are small blackberry-like fruits that “This is a huge move forward in really rais- changes over time, product distribution will, (FIDM) and went on to earn a business degree grow bunched together and are often difficult ing the visibility of the product,” said Jessica as well. from California State University. After working to remove from the vine. “I incorporated dew- Terlikowski, co-founder and co-chair of the Although CVS stores in Washington D.C. as a stylist, fashion show make-up artist, illus- berries with women,” Kennedy said, “and how Chicago Female Condom Campaign. “I think currently stock the FC2, the chain does not trator and T-shirt designer, Kennedy switched basically whether we are mothers and daughters, it’s really going to help with increasing ac- carry them nationwide. Also, no other nation- gears and moved into the more lucrative field of sisters, partners or best friends, we’re either go- ceptability and access.” al pharmacy sells female condoms at a large career counseling. ing to make each other, or we’re going to break. The second generation of female condom, or scale. Although she enjoyed her work, she thought You’re going to have a good attitude, and you’re FC2, is thinner and softer than its predeces- “I’m hoping that by having Walgreens [carry there was something missing. “I just really felt going to help your mom or your friend get to the sor, which was created almost 20 years ago. the FC2] their leadership is going to inspire like I was just so much more than four walls,” next level with positivity.” FC2 manufacturers use a production process and encourage other corporate pharmacies to Kennedy said. “I’ve always tried to do creative Kennedy regularly hosts community events in similar to the one used for male condoms, her Los Angeles boutique, hoping to which creates a seamless, hypoallergenic also step up to make a priority of increasing create a positive, safe environment product that allows for greater sensation. access,” Terlikowski said. “We’ll see female for women and members of the LGBT “This is such an important tool for women condoms being made available at more com- community. Once a month, a life and for men, for any receptive partner,” Ter- mercial outlets around the country.” Visit GlobalPharmacyDirect.net coach visits the boutique to offer likowski said. “It enables them to initiate To find a Walgreens that carries the FC2, for your prescription drug needs inspirational words on selected top- protection on their own, to make sure that visit http://www.walgreens.com. To learn Save up to 80% or more on all meds ics for Motivational Mondays. There they’re able to take an important first step more about the many uses and proper appli- are also monthly Women’s Wellness in reducing their risk of STIs and HIV.” Ter- cation of the FC2, visit http://www.ringonit. t4FDVSF 2VJDL $POWFOJFOUPSEFSJOHQSPDFTTPOMJOF Wednesdays, which have included likowski stressed that while the name might org. t"MMESVHTEJTQFOTFEBSF'%"BQQSPWFE massages and healthy eating ad- suggest otherwise, many people will find fe- t4BWFVQUPPSNPSFPOBMM)*7"*%4ESVHT vice in the past. Also, every other male condoms beneficial, as they can be used t.FEJDBUJPOTTIJQEJSFDUMZUPZPVSEPPSJOEBZT Tuesday the boutique hosts a poetry for both vaginal and anal sex. Place your order with us today and start slam. A pack of three FC2 condoms retails be- saving now on your medication needs. Kennedy said the boutique tween $5.99 and $7.99, which is about a Questions? Call or email has been a life-changer. “I’ve met so third of the price of original female condoms. 1-866-744-3835 or many people and had so many great “The price point on the original was a bit high [email protected] opportunities since I’ve opened compared to what a male condom costs,” said Leading the effort in low-cost Rx drugs ensuring this storefront,” she said. “People Glen Pietrandoni, manager of HIV and hepati- the highest quality and safety standards. are coming at me. I’ve had many… tis programs at Walgreens. “But now this new product, the FC2, is more in line with what a male condom costs.” Activists hope the drastic price change will Chicago’s Dedicated and increase female condom usage and make it Comprehensive LGBT Program easier for healthcare professionals to stock ALEO the product. Terlikowski, who educates ser- VAT CHICAGO LAKESHORE HOSPITAL Valeo at Chicago Lakeshore Hospital provides comprehensive psychiatric and addiction-related treatment for gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and questioning (LGBTQ) individuals. The program offers a safe, affirming therapeutic environment for members of the LGBTQ community. The Valeo staff is comprised of well-trained, experienced gay and gay-sensitive behavioral health professionals from a wide variety of disciplines.
4840 N. MARINE DRIVE CHICAGO, IL 60640 1-800-888-0560 www.chicagolakeshorehospital.com WINDY CITY TIMES June 15, 2011 15 a GAYin the Beef ‘n Brandy Bartender/musician/actress Restaurant and Bar LIFE Sami Grisafe Text and PHOTOS CHOW BY ROSS FORMAN DOWN TOWN 2IBS s 3EAFOOD s 3ALADS s 3TIR &RY s !ND -ORE Breakfast Lunch Dinner Cocktails Wi-Fi
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Saturday, June 18 7:30 p.m. Sappho’s Salon Three-Year Anniversary Bash Featuring Tret Fure and guest host Kat Fitzgerald Thursday, June 23 Sami Grisafe was playing in a key volleyball playoff match during her senior year at Redlands 7:30 p.m. (Calif.) High School, but her mind was else- Steven Petrow where … where she was supposed to be at the time. Steven Petrow’s Complete Grisafe was to be performing in the Gay & Lesbian Manners: The school’s rendition of The Larrabee Project, Definitive Guide to LGBT Life so, when volleyball ended, with a victory, she literally ran to the theatre. And they had held the start of the show for Grisafe. 5233 N. Clark Grisafe’s high school run is, well, not (773) 769-9299 much different from her current gigs in Chi- cago. She’s the standout quarterback for the Chicago Force, in her fifth season with the women’s tackle football team. Grisafe also has been a bartender at The Closet in [email protected] Lakeview for three years and is an aspiring actress. Plus, she sings vocals and plays the ukulele www.womenandchildrenfirst.com for The Wick, a four-person, Chicago-based band that describes its musical genre as rock/soul, or, Parking Available provoc-rock. Lyrically, the subject matter of their songs range from social struggles, such as addic- Wheelchair Accessible tion and suicide, to love and sex. The Wick was established last November and has already recorded its debut album, “The Wick the stats on Wax,” which was released on iTunes this spring. Name “I’ve always had an eclectic, dynamic day-to- Sami Grisafe day lifestyle,” Grisafe said. Grisafe played baseball in her native California Age for nine years, then became the first woman in 26 California to play quarterback in a varsity Divi- sion I football game. She quarterbacked Team Neighborhood USA last summer in Sweden to the gold medal in Rogers Park the first Women’s International Football Compe- tition. Have your Favorite football team “Playing on the Force is like having 45 sisters; it’s really a great support system,” Grisafe said. San Francisco 49ers “The Force is more than just teammates; it’s like premiums Favorite football player my family, especially since my real family—my mom, dad and brother, Kyle—are in California increased Joe Montana and I now usually only see them once a year.” That includes Force owner/general manager recently? Relationship status Linda Bache. Dating Ren “Linda has been like a mom to me. She’s really See me: helped me develop and grow up. She’s been a Favorite musical group huge influence to me and I’m very thankful to Charles T. Rhodes, Counting Crows her,” Grisafe said. Agent The Wick will be performing Wed., June 22, at 2472 N. Clark Favorite performer Martyrs, 3855 N. Lincoln, starting at 10 p.m. “I love the band. We have so much fun to- 773.281.0890 Ani DiFranco State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company gether and have done so much in such a short (not in NJ) State Farm Indemnity Company (NJ) period of time,” Grisafe said. Home Offices: Bloomington, Illinois VIEWPOINTs WINDY CITY you have the surgery” and “do you feel like a girl or pronouns if they have asked you to use new TIMES KATE in a boy’s body?” How would you feel if strang- ones. Sometimes when talking about transgen- VOL. 26 No. 36, June 15, 2011 ers always asked you to describe your genitalia? der people in past tense, we think it is okay to The combined forces of Windy City Times, SOSIN Invaded, hmm? use an old name/pronoun/identity/other gen- founded Sept. 1985, and Outlines newspaper, 3. Don’t use the “T” word if you’re cisgender dered word, but this is generally considered dis- founded May 1987. (cisgender=not transgender): Calling someone respectful of how they identify now (and in some PUBLISHER & EXECUTIVE EDITOR a “Hot t****y mess” is wildly offensive to trans- cases, has always identified). If you are about to Tracy Baim gender people, especially transgender women. say, “when Johnathon was a girl,” think about That word is a slur that carries the weight of saying “when Johnathon was a kid.” Even if you ASSISTANT PUBLISHER Terri Klinsky a history (and present reality) of unimaginably are talking about someone’s transition, use that MANAGING EDITOR Andrew Davis Speaking trans: BUSINESS MANAGER Meghan Streit horrific violence and discrimination. Think of person’s preferred name and pronouns. It’s com- DIRECTOR OF NEW MEDIA Jean Albright anti-gay slurs you hear that we don’t tolerate. mon courtesy. ART DIRECTOR Kirk Williamson A primer for 4. Correct yourself and move on: Yes, it’s a 8. Check-in now and then: Some people will SENIOR ACCOUNT MANAGERS: Terri Klinsky, Amy little awkward when we mis-pronoun someone. tell you that they prefer one pronoun and later Matheny, Kirk Williamson, Dave Ouano, Kirk Smid PROMOTIONAL SUPPORT Cynthia Holmes LGB folks It’s more awkward when we fall all over our- change their minds, or they will want you to use NIGHTSPOTS MANAGING EDITOR Kirk Williamson selves to apologize. Think about a moment when one pronoun and someone else to use a differ- NATIONAL SALES Rivendell Media, 212-242-6863 Pride, for me, is both a joyous time and a dif- someone messed up when talking about you. ent one, depending on who they are comfortable SENIOR WRITERS Bob Roehr, Rex Wockner, Marie ficult reminder that what many of us mean when Maybe they assumed your parents are still to- with. If you think someone might want to be J. Kuda, David Byrne, Tony Peregrin, Lisa Keen, we say “LGBTQ” is really just “gay and lesbian.” Yasmin Nair, Emmanuel Garcia, Kate Sosin gether when they’re not or that you are straight addressed in a new way, simply ask: “does ‘he’ THEATER EDITOR Scott C. Morgan As a transgender community organizer, I often when you aren’t or that just because you are still feel like the pronoun you want me to use for CINEMA WRITER Richard Knight, Jr. feel resistance from many major gay organiza- gay, you’re not religious. It’s more painful when you?’” Asking in this way puts minimal pressure BOOKS WRITER Yasmin Nair tions when it comes both to putting transgender you over-correct. on someone else. ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT WRITERS people in visible and empowering advocacy roles Mary Shen Barnidge, Steve Warren, Lawrence 5. Learn what issues are important to trans- 9. Correct others who use the wrong pro- Ferber, Mel Ferrand, Jerry Nunn, and in adopting respectful practice. With Pride gender people on your own: A lot of transgen- noun: It is sometimes awkward to correct the Alicia Wilson, Jonathan Abarbanel upon us, it feels like a good time to remember der people are put in the uncomfortable position way that someone addresses you if you’re gen- COLUMNISTS/WRITERS: Yvonne Zipter, Jorjet that gay people can still be great allies. Here are of having to educate others about trans issues. der-variant. You can be a great ally by correct- Harper, Lee Lynch, Tully Satre, Lisa Keen, Charlsie 10 things we all need to do to be better towards Dewey, Michael Knipp, Lisa Klein, Joe Erbentraut, Take an hour one Sunday and learn about why ing others for them (make sure you know their Carrie Maxwell, Billy Masters, Chuck Colbert, Micki gender-variant people in our community. bathrooms are contentious spaces for gender- pronoun preference first). We all make mistakes Leventhal, Sarah Toce, Erica Demarest, Dana 1. Always ask; never assume: A lot of us variant folk, why healthcare is hard to access, so go easy on the person you’re correcting. Just Rudolph, Sally Parsons assume that we know someone’s pronoun prefer- why transgender people are disproportionately say “Hey, ______prefers to be called______.” SENIOR PHOTOGRAPHERS Kat Fitzgerald, Mel ence or identity at a glance. The truth is that Ferrand, Hal Baim, Steve Starr, Emmanuel Garcia, unemployed and subjected to hate violence or 10. Put transgender people in positions of Dave Ouano we can’t possibly know. Asking is always bet- any number of things. Chicago is home to some power: A lot of us learn about trans issues and CIRCULATION ter than messing up, even if it is a little awk- of the country’s best-known transgender activ- decide that we should do things for transgender CIRCULATION DIRECTOR Jean Albright ward. A good way to navigate this is not to ask ists and artists. Learn who they are! people. However, trans people are largely left DISTRIBUTION: Ashina, Allan, Dan, John, Renee, what someone’s pronoun is, but if they have a 6. Don’t try too hard to affirm someone’s out of conversations that deeply impact their Sue and Victor pronoun preference. This allows for people who WEB HOSTING: LoveYourWebsite.com (lead pro- gender: A lot of people make the mistake of lives. Advocating for transgender communities grammer: Martie Marro) are certain about their pronouns to say so, and trying to make transgender people feel “more is great, but putting trans people in positions it usually won’t put someone on the spot who legit.” Everyone is complicated, so this rarely where they can advocate for themselves is far is not certain or has never had to answer that Copyright 2011 Lambda Publications Inc./Windy City Media works the way it is intended. It feels funny to better. Group; All rights reserved. Reprint by permission only. Back question before. Note: it is polite to offer your have someone actively try to make you feel more A lot of people have different ideas about the issues (if available) for $5 per issue (postage included). pronoun preference in return. Note, again: using Return postage must accompany all manuscripts, drawings, like yourself. Commenting on how well someone best way to approach transgender issues, so and photographs submitted if they are to be returned, and gendered words when talking about people you “passes” or on what they can do to “look more look around for other resources like this one. no responsibility may be assumed for unsolicited materials. don’t know could also be rude (avoid “sir” or like” the gender you think they’re aiming for is Remember, transgender people and gay people All rights to letters, art and photographs sent to Windy City Times will be treated as unconditionally assigned “ladies” etc. for strangers). the equivalent of your mother telling you what are marginalized in some of the same ways. Af- for publication purposes and as such, subject to editing 2. Asking/ talking about someone else’s she thinks your weight should be. It is presump- ter all, the LGBTQ community shares an acronym and comment. The opinions expressed by the columnists, body is generally, always rude: Some of us get cartoonists, letter writers, and commentators are their own tive and not necessary. for a reason: we’re all breaking old rules about and do not necessarily reflect the position ofWindy City so excited to learn about transgender issues that 7. Don’t use the wrong pronoun just because gender. Times. Publication of the name, photograph, or likeness of we forget common sense manners. This often re- a person or organization in articles or advertising in Windy you’re talking about them in past tense: It Kate Sosin is a senior writer for Windy City City Times is not to be construed as any indication of the sults in foot-in-the-mouth questions like “did is never necessary to use someone’s old name Times. sexual orientation of such person or organization. While we encourage readers to support the advertisers who make this newspaper possible, Windy City Times cannot accept responsibility for advertising claims. when we entered Sheep Meadow and the people unhappy with the way some of the marches have (773) 871-7610 FAX (773) 871-7609 e-mail: [email protected] just kept coming—were my strongest-ever feel- lost their roots, but we still understand the need MARK ing of pride. for those marches. It’s all about that one person www.WindyCityMediaGroup.com SEGAL Now, think of your first gay-pride march or pa- feeling a sense of pride in his/herself for the radio: WindyCityQueercast.com rade. I bet you to had a similar experience—a first time and pride in their community. video: QueerTVNetwork.com feeling that you were not alone and a sense of As for me and the others from those early community. That is what gay pride is all about. years, we continue to communicate. We have an WINDY CITY MEDIA GROUP, 5315 N. Clark St. #192, Chicago, IL 60640 That simple sense of pride has now become email group that has taken on the air of a Gay U.S.A global. In many countries, gay-pride celebra- Liberation Front meeting. Each time there’s one (MAILING ADDRESS ONLY) Silly queer: tions are the only time gays try to assemble. in my inbox, it brings a smile to my face. We’ll Sometimes they go to jail. In Poland and Hunga- most likely debate almost any item in our com- Windy City Times Deadline every Wednesday. Nightspots Deadline Wednesday prior to street date. Pride is for those ry, it takes 2,000 police to protect the marchers munity, but one thing we have given the world OUT! Resource Guide ONLINE from protesters. In Budapest, the police erect an and have ourselves is pride. To all of you, I wish www.WindyCityMediaGroup.com with gay pride eight-foot chain fence the entire length of the you happy Gay Pride! www.WindyCityMediaGroup.com parade to protect the marchers. In Moscow, the Philadelphia Gay News Publisher Mark Se- www.WindyCityQueercast.com Last week, I posted a question on my Facebook www.QueerTVNetwork.com mayor refuses to give them a permit; when they gal is the nation’s most-award-winning com- page: “A week from this Sunday is Gay Pride in dare march, there is no protection and they are mentator in LGBT media. He can be reached Philly. Are you ready?” “Windy City Media Group generated beaten and jailed. For those marchers, it is not [email protected]. It was a simple question. I had no idea of the enormous interest among their readers only a march of pride; it is a march of defiance. reaction or comments it would receive. in this year’s LGBT Consumer Index Many of us from the original march might be Some 50 comments later, I was left with mixed Survey. Out of approximately 100 emotions, hence the title of this column. print and online media partners who A little LGBT history lesson is in order to put participated in the survey, Windy this in perspective. The first Gay Pride march was City was the best performing regional in New York City on June 28, 1970. We organized Send letters and viewpoints to media in the U.S. Only survey partners that march to commemorate The Stonewall Ri- with a nationwide footprint were ots, which took place the year before. That rep- Andrew@WindyCity able to generate a greater number of resented to us that we could fight back against responses.” —David Marshall, Research oppression and that we were proud of our com- MediaGroup.com. Director, Community Marketing, Inc. munity and, to prove that, we marched across the city from Christopher Street to Central Park’s Items may be Sheep Meadow. We had no idea if anyone would show up. Thousands did. edited for At about 23rd Street, I climbed a pole and I still could see marchers coming out of Christo- pher Street—some 15 blocks away. The chills length or clarity. that went down my spine—I felt them again
18 June 15, 2011 WINDY CITY TIMES
A special series in partnership with the AIDS Foundation of Chicago
Mark Ishaug pushes AIDS agenda in Chicago and far beyond
Mark Ishaug. Courtesy of Ishaug by Sarah Toce denial in Zimbabwe and Mozambique that HIV American Medical Association (AMA) to change It was really easy then—and it’s still easy now, and AIDS was a problem at all. I remember read- its policies … just so much exciting stuff that in some ways—for people to compartmentalize Humanitarian Mark Ishaug has been working ing articles in the paper and talking to people really did change the course of the epidemic. their compassion and/or their fears. HIV was, zealously for social justice surrounding the from Zimbabwe, that said, “Oh, no, this is a So that time, 20 years ago, was full of contra- and in many ways still is, in many parts of the often-taboo subjects of hunger, homelessness, European—this is an American problem, there’s dictions. Because it was about death and dying, world and in the United States, a stigmatized healthcare, HIV/AIDS and civil rights for more never going to be HIV in Africa. This doesn’t but it was about life and great hope. It was … disease. So clearly, Ryan White, a boy who was than 30 years. His work in developing the pro- affect … this won’t affect Africans, it will only “The sky is falling, but everything’s going to be infected through a drug transfusion, as opposed gram CARE International-Mozambique in 1990 affect white people.” I remember being so frus- great.” It was a difficult time. to unsafe sex, unclean needles, or prostitution, landed him on the global map, funneling into trated because of course knowing by then many I also started at the AIDS Foundation right or any of the stigmatizing quote-unquote be- the underserved population. Later, he would join people, Black and white, from all over the world, after the Ryan White Care Act was passed and haviors associated with HIV, drug use, et cetera AIDS Foundation of Chicago (AFC) and ACT UP. who had become infected with … and were liv- one of the first things I did, new on the job (I … yeah. We were lucky that Ryan White’s story Today, Ishaug serves as the CEO of AIDS United ing with or had died of HIV and AIDS, it was so had only been there a week or two), was lobby and his sheer force of personality inspired so (a merger between the National AIDS Fund and frustrating to me, back then, 25 years ago, to for the first Ryan White Care Act appropriation many people. It’s … it was just the reality of AIDS Action) in Washington, D.C. In addition, just … to watch the complete and utter denial in Washington, D.C. So it was a very, very excit- the times. It says a lot both about the discrimi- Illinois Gov. Pat Quinn appointed the passionate of a disease that has now devastated the conti- ing time, in the spring of 1991, to be on the nation that so existed in this country 20-plus pioneer to be one of the 22 statewide leaders on nent. Hill, fighting for what would be that hundreds years ago. It also showed the enormous heart the new Commission to End Hunger. WCT: You joined AIDS Foundation of Chicago of millions of dollars for emergency AIDS relief and compassion that people can have for people Windy City Times: Your work in Africa led (AFC) in 1991 as a policy analyst and worked in places like Chicago, San Francisco, Boston, that are sick and dying. It’s truly a double-edged you in 1990 to develop CARE International- as policy director. At that time, how was the New York, and L.A. And we were successful, our sword. Mozambique. How did that career opportunity city of Chicago directly affected by HIV and first year out. We went from no appropriations WCT: Are there any distinct incidences that transpire? AIDS? to hundreds of millions of dollars. Desperately stand out to you in the past 20 years, that you Mark Ishaug: I was actually in grad school at MI: Oh, horrifically. I was working during grad needed and not enough. … So that’s how I look back upon and say, “Okay, I was involved Northwestern University, working on a Ph.D. school [as a waiter at Ann Sather restaurant started my career in HIV, 20 years ago. in this series of events and it definitely made (which I did not get, I got a master’s degree), owned by Tom Tunney, who is now an alderman] And so ironically or coincidentally now, I’m an important imprint” in regards to fighting but I was working. While attending Northwest- in Chicago, so from 1988 to 1991, I remember in D.C., most of the time, fighting for health- the epidemic? ern, I got a MacArthur Foundation scholarship working there and just meeting hundreds of care reform; and fighting for Ryan White appro- MI: A couple of things. You know, clearly on that took me to Mozambique. And while I was people that were affected by HIV and AIDS. And priations; and figuring out new and smarter and the care and treatment side. You know, this [in- doing research there at the university, I ended we saw in the mid- to-late ’80s just how Chicago more efficient ways that we can care for people terview] is not just about me, this is about the up getting, maybe, a six- or eight-month gig was being ravaged by this epidemic. Organiza- and to prevent new infections. AIDS Foundation and the sector, but I think our with CARE International Mozambique, working tions like Chicago House and Test Positive Aware WCT: That’s an amazing body of work in 20 mobilization around the Ryan White Care Act and in its emergency-relief program. It was really an Network and Howard Brown and the AIDS Foun- years. Do you think that because Ryan White our fierce and effective lobbying for the Ryan amazing experience. dation, in the mid- to-late ’80s, were trying to was a straight little boy, that maybe Congress White Care Act is just a … it’s a huge success. I WCT: Can you tell us a few things about how do so much for the hundreds, if not thousands, was more willing to listen, instead of it being think that the advocacy to get the drug compa- you were personally affected by your work in of people that were dying, when there was so a gay person that they were speaking to? Do nies to invest in better treatments, to discover Africa? little to offer them. I know it sounds like a cli- you think there was some discrimination or better treatments, to make those accessible … MI: My first trip to Africa was in 1983, so al- ché, but when I started doing this work, we were compassion because he wasn’t gay? I mean, just a generalized advocacy, I think, of most 30 years ago, and I actually … I’ve known really helping people die with dignity. There was MI: Well, I mean, Jeanne White and Ryan the AIDS movement really has inspired many about HIV and AIDS for 30 years, since the first one drug, maybe two, and they were somewhat White really changed the course of this epi- others, and women’s groups, and those suffering case was reported in 1981. When I went to Af- life-extending, but they were not life-saving in demic. He was the inspiration for millions of from other life-threatening or chronic diseases. rica for the first time, I remember thinking that any way. So it was a very … it was a very dark people. I mean, obviously the inspiration for So I do think that our voices and organizing of with how it’s transmitted and, you know … it and depressing time. key individuals like Elton John and others. Elton people living with HIV has really changed the was possibly going to be a hot spot in the world. On the other hand, it was also a time of great John will even say that he wasn’t involved in landscape in America. So that is, of course, one I actually remember coming back, really, really hope and great inspiration because individu- this work until he met Ryan White, and Ryan of my proudest accomplishments. sick, in 1983, and one of my friends who was als were rallying to save their own lives and to White changed his outlook on life, and so Ryan I think our work around needle exchange and with me, her folks were doctors, and they were save their friends and their brothers and their and Jeanne have just been an inspiration to mil- making access to clean needles available in Il- actually talking about the potential of HIV in sisters and their loved ones. And ACT UP was lions. And we literally wouldn’t … it’s possible linois and many other places is a huge contribu- Africa back then. an unbelievable force for change, and what the that we wouldn’t have the [Ryan White] Care Act tion to the fight against AIDS, and a very tough And then I went to Zimbabwe in 1987, and it folks at ACT UP/Chicago did to raise awareness, today, and the billions of dollars that we have battle that we waged in Illinois for years, almost was really an interesting time in 1987 in Zimba- to demand government support, to push the pri- for treatment and drugs, if it weren’t for his in- a decade. You know, when the science was in- bwe, because there was basically, like, official vate sector, to raise media awareness, to get the spirational life. controvertible, we still couldn’t get lawmakers WINDY CITY TIMES June 15, 2011 19
to agree to support something that in fact would we have all of these drugs, people are a little save lives and save money and not increase drug bit more lax about prevention, possibly be- use, because of fear, because of stigma, because cause they have these new life-saving drugs of … people were either putting their heads that can be used following diagnosis? in the sand and not dealing with the fact that MI: Well, I think the rise in … or at least the clean needles save lives, but just focusing on leveling of … new infections in this country be- the stigmatizing behavior of drug use. But that, tween 50,000-60,000 per year … the reasons I think, was a major accomplishment in really are complicated. Yes, I think there is some, what turning the tide. is called “behavioral disinhibition,” because Also, the work of many of my colleagues in people don’t see their friends, especially their Chicago around prenatal transmission, preven- young friends, becoming emaciated and dying, tion (people like Anne Statton from PACPI and and so there’s less fear, in part because the Mardge Cohen and many others) has been one drugs are so successful and people can be living area of advancement in treatment and preven- on medications for what appears to be a long, tion, where we’re basically eliminating mother- long, long time. to-child transmission in America and really have But I think it’s deeper than that. I think the potential to do it across the world. stigma is driving the epidemic for sure, ho- And of course being at the advent of just these mophobia is driving the epidemic, violence amazing antiretrovirals and other therapies— … violence against men and violence against again, which I had nothing to do with—but I women is driving the epidemic. And lack of ac- am just so ecstatic that we have such amazing cess to care. People are much less likely to be- therapies that are reducing viral load, making come infected or to transmit HIV if they have the virus almost undetectable. quality healthcare. But in many places in this The other thing that I’m really excited about country, it’s really hard to get an HIV doctor. … again, I played a small role in this—it’s been Not just in the South and in the rural areas, but mostly Jim Pickett at the AIDS Foundation and in many urban areas as well. … [We] know from others—but I have played a role in microbicide our own experience in Chicago and throughout advocacy, including rectal microbicide advocacy, the country that even if there are AIDS docs, for many years now. Not as a leader, but as a there’s not often access to these clinics and to supporter of Jim Pickett and others that are do- these programs for people who need them most. ing this work. But I think we’ve really … we’re There could be cultural competency issues, there moving the needle on prevention technologies. could be issues of hours that they’re open, when It’s not just the condom; it’s also the microbi- people can’t get there, there’s issues related to cide and it’s the rectal microbicide, and so on. child care. There’s a whole host of issues, both For me, the bottom line is that because we’ve internal to people living with HIV, and exter- had such success over the last 20 years and nal to them, like the systems of care that don’t there are so many potential successes on the welcome them. I think all of these factors are horizon, especially in HIV prevention and the contributing to the 50-60,000 new infections we use of biomedical interventions for prevention, have in this country every year. Mark Ishaug. Courtesy of Ishaug that I just have such great hope that we really If only there was a simple explanation for why are going to end this epidemic in America in my there are 50,000 new infections … but I think it is key … all of these things combined are WCT: Those are the game-changers, right lifetime. And that’s what keeps me going. That’s you have to look at all of these reasons together key to ending the epidemic. No president in the there. Getting motivated, giving in … you what energizes me and that’s what gets me out to see what contributes to it. There are just not 30-year American history … has done all of this have to choose one. So Gov. Pat Quinn ap- of bed every morning to do this work. enough resources, and especially not enough re- in two years. pointed you to be one of the 22 statewide WCT: You are quick to recognize all of your sources in primary HIV prevention, targeted to WCT: I read a story recently from AIDS Con- leaders on the new Illinois Commission to colleagues in this effort to eradicate HIV/ the communities and individuals who need this nect that you wrote about a woman who stuck End Hunger. Can you tell us a little bit about AIDS. Do you feel that support throughout the most. We had eight years of a [George W.] up her middle finger at you and said, “I hope this venture in Illinois to improve food secu- the community as a whole? Bush administration where the [U.S. Centers for you die.” rity and nutrition through education, better MI: It really is about the collective. I mean, Disease Control] couldn’t even talk about … MI: Mmhmm, yeah. coordinating services and increasing access what inspires me about doing this work is that gay men … WCT: And this happened roughly 20 years to programs? I feel like I have thousands, tens of thousands, WCT: Condoms. after another person did the exact same MI: We had our first commission meeting [re- hundreds of thousands of colleagues. I might MI: … and condoms. So you have a website thing to you, at a healthcare rally. How do cently]. I’m just thrilled about this opportunity. only work with 30 at AIDS United directly, or that doesn’t talk about condoms, or you have you gracefully move past that? Your response It’s being chaired by the executive director of work with 70 at AIDS Foundation, but I think researchers that can’t put in proposals target- was great. Your response was, “Well, I’m go- the Chicago Greater Food Depository and the about the thousands of people that I get to ing men who have sex with men, because … ing to die eventually, but not anytime soon, I deputy governor, Cristal Thomas, and it includes work with every day, through all these different it won’t make it past review. We had almost a hope.” That reaction was much more dignified all these powerhouses, from Sargent Shriver organizations, not just HIV but sort of broader decade with a deeply chilling effect on how we than her attack on you. Center on Poverty Law, to Grace Hou, who’s the healthcare and advocacy groups. talk about HIV and how we reach those most at MI: Yeah, well, that was a really … it was an deputy director of human services for the state I think the future to ending this epidemic are risk. amazing moment for me. I was at a healthcare of Illinois, and all these advocates for women all of us who are doing this sort of AIDS-focused WCT: How do you feel that President Obama reform rally, and I was wearing my T-shirt that and children and the hungry. It’s a really diverse work to do it through a much broader coalition, and his administration are doing in fighting said, “Healthcare is a right.” I was really inspired, coalition of people that are committed to end- connecting with the domestic violence groups in this epidemic? on this really beautiful summer day, thinking ing hunger in Illinois. And I’m involved because a much deeper way because of the intersection of MI: Well, overall, I am delighted. We have a that people would come and join us. And while I know that you cannot address chronic health HIV and domestic violence, and working closely National HIV/AIDS Strategy—which we never we had a nice crowd and some press, the woman conditions like HIV/AIDS and everything else with all the other disease-specific entities. Folks had before, for 30 years—and the Obama admin- walking over to me really was a wake-up call. unless you have the basics in your life to ad- looking at diabetes, and folks working to fight istration released its National HIV/AIDS Strate- I didn’t know it then, but those folks were the dress your healthcare concerns. And for me, that cancer, and folks working to fight heart disease gy with very specific goals and objectives for the beginning of the Tea Party movement—the very is food and shelter. So, for my whole career in … everything that affects our clients today we next five years. And most importantly, we have folks that are trying to dismantle healthcare re- doing this work, I have been an outspoken ad- didn’t even think about 20 years ago. We were a president that fought for and won access to form and undo all of the progress we’ve made. vocate for AIDS housing and housing in gener- so busy fighting AIDS [back then] and now we’re healthcare through the Affordable Care Act. And But, yeah, just the irony for me was the 20-year al—for everyone—housing for all. I have always helping people live with HIV and a whole host of this healthcare reform is the game-changer for expanse between, you know, somebody shouting been a big, big supporter of food and nutrition other chronic medical conditions. So I just think people with AIDS. Our folks who have heretofore that at me when I was involved with ACT UP, and programs. It’s something that most of us just it’s … it’s a really exciting time, and if we could been denied care, because they don’t qualify for then 20 years later shouting at me when I was take for granted, that we get to get up every all collectively focus our energy on making sure Medicaid-like programs, in 2014 will have access CEO of the AIDS Foundation. morning, or at least I do, and have an amazing that healthcare reform is implemented in 2014, to Medicaid, and will have access to a source of But what it mostly speaks to is the need to breakfast, an amazing lunch. I’ve never, for one and if we all work together on the National HIV/ financial support to pay for their primary care just keep up the fight. And to keep vigilant, and second, been hungry. AIDS Strategy, I really do believe … again, it’s and for their drugs. to keep diligently raising the issues and raising And so for me, it’s a passion: I have a passion cliché: we sent a man to the moon, there’s no So, yeah, there are things that the administra- hell and raising our voices until we have health- for music, I have a passion for endurance train- way we cannot end this epidemic. tion probably could be doing better, we all could care for all, and until we are living in a country ing, I have a passion to end AIDS, and I just WCT: There are an estimated 600,000 peo- be doing better, but I think when you look at without HIV and AIDS. believe if we cannot ensure that every person ple living with HIV that are not receiving the the investment in Ryan White, the lifting of the So yeah, you know, you can’t get mad—or I in our country—and really, the world—but in life-saving access to care they need. And I’m ban for federal funding on syringe exchange, the can’t get mad—about this stuff. I can only get Illinois and the country, cannot have a decent, wondering if you’re also drawing this correla- National HIV/AIDS Strategy and the Affordable motivated. tion that a lot of us seem to be: that now that Healthcare Act … this is it. It’s not perfect, but Turn to page 16 20 June 15, 2011 WINDY CITY TIMES
Anthony Fauci at the Center of the AIDS Story by Bob Roehr of the role he would play in shaping government could be preaching the gospel and scientists policies over the ensuing decades. wouldn’t listen to them,” he said. One man has been at the center of AIDS treat- Fauci was named director of the NIH National “They were challenging our paradigms of how ment, research, and policy since the beginning— Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NI- we do clinical research and how we regulated Anthony Fauci. He has been giving a series of AID) in 1984. It would become the center of drugs” for people who had no viable therapies, speeches, a personal reflection on the 30-year research and research funding for AIDS. At 43 he added. “By the time the FDA approved it, ev- journey through that global pandemic. he was the youngest institute director ever at erybody who needed it would be dead. That was Fauci was a young researcher at the National In- NIH, When some on the Institute staff opposed something that we just didn’t get here in this stitutes of Health (NIH) when he read that first creation of the Division of AIDS, he said, “I had city of Washington.” report of a cluster of five gay men in Los Angeles to do something I don’t like to do and that is get “But what they said made really great sense. with pneumocystis carinii pneumonia that ap- rid of them.” They wanted a parallel track” to make the drug peared in the June 5, 1981 issue of the then Five presidential administrations have relied available while a trial was underway. When Fauci obscure journal Morbidity and Mortality Weekly upon him for council. stood up at a meeting in San Francisco and sup- Report (MMWR). It started with Ronald Reagan. While Fauci ported the idea, the FDA went wild and tried to How odd, he thought, because it is a rare dis- acknowledges the criticism of Reagan for not have him fired. ease “that you never ever see in someone with a publicly addressing AIDS earlier than he did, he “Fortunately I had a good friend; that was normal immune system.” The mark of his native also defends the man: “When we were asking for George H. W. Bush,” he said. “When I explained Brooklyn is heavy in Fauci’s voice, even though more money for HIV [Reagan] was actually more [parallel track] to him, he thought it was a good he has not lived there for decades. generous than people thought.” He would also idea.” Anthony Fauci. Photo by Bob Roehr A month later another issue of MMWR landed “encourage and allow people like me and Jim Fauci recalled how playwright/activist Larry on his desk, this one with a report of 26 young Curran from the CDC to go out there to the bath- Kramer once wrote “an open letter to an incom- the people who need therapy are actually get- gay men in Los Angeles, San Francisco, and New houses, go to the crack houses and try and find petent idiot Anthony Fauci.” However, from that ting therapy. For every person you put on thera- York City, otherwise healthy, who presented with out what was going on and develop a research confrontational start, the relationship between py, 2-3 people get newly infected.” pneumocystis carinii and/or the unusual cancer program for it.” the two evolved to one of dear friends. The NIH investment in HIV research has been Kaposi’s Sarcoma, also seen in immunocompro- The sirector praises George H.W. Bush for tak- staggering. When Fauci became director of NI- mised persons. ing the time to learn about AIDS when he be- PEPFAR AID in 1984 AIDS funding was just $20 million, “It was the first time in my medical career that came a candidate for president. “He came and but today it is $1.3 billion, about 11 percent of I ever got goose pimples, because I knew this spent about three to four hours at the NIH, Few recall that a young George W. Bush worked the annual NIH budget. The cumulative total has had to be a new disease,” said Fauci. He quickly which for those of you who know presidential in his father’s White House office, where Fauci reach $45 billion, but he says it is well spent. decided to make the mysterious new disease the visits, that’s a lifetime for a president to spend. came to know him and other junior staffers. “If you take a problem seriously, and make focus of his research, despite contrary advice They usually come in and say hello and leave.” Those relationships came to mature when he was well-thought-out investments in biomedical re- from his mentor and colleagues. asked to play a leading role in creation of the search, you will get benefits from that, for sure,” These reports marked the first official notice Activism President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief, the he said. of what would become known as the global HIV international effort better know by its acronym Fauci said the changes in HIV/AIDS over the pandemic. The disease had been around much AIDS activists “stormed the NIH” in the late PEPFAR. last 30 years have been dramatic. For the first longer; we simply had not recognized it. But 1980s bringing surly, chanting throngs and The program launched in 2003 and Fauci eight years of his HIV practice, “every one of that would change as the virus grew with ex- smoke bombs to the bucolic research campus. proudly ticks off the accomplishments: “close my patients died” and the average survival was ponential ferocity to ravage and kill millions of The police were about to arrest them when Fauci to 4 million lives have been saved by providing 27 weeks. The corner was turned in 1996 with human beings. said no; he invited them to send five leaders up treatment for individuals; 450,000 infants were introduction of protease inhibitor-based combi- Fauci’s decision to focus on the unknown to his seventh floor office to talk. saved from being infected by treating them and nation therapy and other subsequent drugs. Now pathogen proved to be not only a good career “These guys came in with Mohawk haircuts, their infected mothers; and about 11 million when a person initially starts treatment, “ac- move, but also an important one for the gay multiple earrings, black leather jackets, making people came under care.” cording to mathematical models, they will live community and people living with HIV because a lot of noise; scientists ran for the hills. They “The sobering news is that only 40 percent of an additional 52 years,” he said.
In 1997, Chicago photographer Mark Brown donated images to Chicago House of Princess Diana. The Remembering Diana Sept. 17, 1997 press releases stated: “While a student at the University of London in 1987, Mark Brown shot several photos of Prin- cess Diana outside the Canterbury Cathedral in Canterbury, England. Since returning from Eng- land, Brown has kept the photos in his personal collection. However in the wake of the Princess’ death, Brown has decided to use them to benefit one of Diana’s favorite causes. Two of Brown’s favorite images from the shoot are current for sale with the proceeds benefiting Chicago House, a not-for-profit organization that provides housing to underprivileged people living with HIV/ AIDS. Earlier this month, Brown’s Princess Diana photos were part of a silent auction at Chicago Houses Art of Caring gala where they raised $1000 each.”
Princess Diana was well known for fundraising and visibility efforts on HIV and AIDS.
Pictured are Mark Brown’s Diana photos, and an image of him with one of the photos. Courtesy of Mark Brown. See www.markbrownphotography.com WINDY CITY TIMES June 15, 2011 21
Shaine Wynsma learns lessons from HIV by Ross Forman ner doesn’t want to deal with you, you learn at an incredible pace how to take care of yourself. Shaine Wynsma was living in Grand Rapids, It’s ironic that something that is supposed to Mich., in the late 1990s, halfway through what end my life early has, in reality, caused me to would ultimately become a four-year relation- become stronger, healthier and now I will prob- ship. Wynsma, who grew up in nearby North ably live a better and longer life than I would Muskegon, found out that his partner had, in have before. reality, been involved in an open relationship. “Dating, though, is kind of tough when you “He had just forgot to let me know,” Wynsma are HIV-positive. You meet a nice guy, you hit it said. “At least that’s what he told me when I off, there is some sort of connection, then you confronted him about it.” have ‘the talk’ and in my experience, it is a ma- So Wynsma knew, since they had stopped jor deal breaker. When you are HIV-positive, you practicing safer sex, that he had to be tested, take a huge risk of being rejected. You could just immediately—and he bought one of those at- decide to date others who are HIV-positive, but home HIV-testing kits, which were popular at that dating pool is small and there is no guaran- the time. tee that the right one is there. It seems just as Wynsma sent in a blood sample and eventually hypocritical to reject someone because they are called for the results from an empty back office [negative] as it is for them to reject me because of the service bay at a car dealership where he I am positive. I understand that people need to was working. protect themselves, and they should, so I do not The woman said the results were positive. belittle anybody for taking that action. Wynsma was speechless, alone, in a dusty, “One can argue that it should be the first thing dimly lit office in the back of a garage at work, you talk about. But, on the other, my thought is, not able to tell anyone. “My survival instinct if sex is not going to happen, then it is none of kicked in and I just asked, ‘OK, what do I do their business. I have to protect myself as well next?’” said Wynsma, who wanted to have an- and that includes emotionally. I had a friend- other test taken, just to confirm her report. ship end because they felt they needed to be “She also said that I seemed pretty upbeat told. It has never been violent, though. [But] I for someone who was just told they were HIV- have heard stories of people freaking out when positive. I told her that I have had some circum- they have been told, verbally abusing, shoving stances in my life that just left me shattered and and then talking about behind their [partner or I learned to just pick up the important pieces ex-partner] behind his back. Thankfully that has and build off of them,” he said. never happened to me.” Wynsma immediately told his boyfriend and Wynsma added: “I have done a lot of work to then went to a nearby clinic for another test of realize that being positive doesn’t make me a his blood. bad person, or filthy, and at times I have been The next two weeks were excruciating, he really insulted by some people’s ignorance. It said. was just a lack of judgment at a young age. The clinic confirmed that Wynsma was HIV- That has been the biggest impact, realizing how positive. much work, even in the gay community, there is “[My] boyfriend never got tested and [our] to erase the stigma of HIV.” sex life became non-existent [at that point] and Wynsma has been dedicated to helping find he even told me to not tell anybody because it a cure for HIV/AIDS for years—very dedicated, would make people think he had [the disease, in fact. He has participated in the annual Ride too],” Wynsma said. “That hurt and made me For AIDS the last four years—and his fifth time feel 100 times worse than finding out alone in on the two-day, 200-mile bicycle ride from Chi- that office. Like I was the one who was trash and cago to Elkhorn, Wis., and back is set for July worthless and did something wrong, when it was 9-10. The event is the largest grossing annual Shaine Wynsma. Courtesy of Wynsma him [who] I was faithful to and clearly the one fundraiser for the Test Positive Aware Network who infected me. (TPAN). The other co-chairmen this year are Angie Team Shaine members this year range in age “I never told my family; they would not have “When I first did the Ride, there were only 60 Frank, Rick Heinz and Matt Daniel, while Richard from their early 20s to late 40s, male and fe- known how to deal with it very well then. It riders. It has since grown to about 300,” said Cordova, Billy Struber and Rhett Lindsey (who male, positive and negative members. was definitely the beginning of the end for that Wynsma, who is in his third year as a co-chair- now works for the AIDS Foundation of Chicago) “The goal of the team is to bring in as much relationship with my boyfriend.” man for the event. “Being a part of the growth have been key in production of the Ride. money as we can, have a blast doing it, and However, the two stayed together for two [of the Ride] has been just as amazing as the The Ride, Wynsma said, “proves HIV is not a always support our teammates,” he said. “The more years, which he now admits, “that [still] first time I finished it. Marathon runners can death sentence.” team is incredibly good-looking, incredibly confounds me to this day.” relate to the satisfaction you get from finish- “Someone who is positive doesn’t have to lie strong with a fun personality. We have a ball Ultimately, after a major verbal blow-up be- ing a high-endurance event; it is addicting and down, suffer and wait for death,” he said. “Rid- together. I can’t wait to ride in with them, in tween the two, Wynsma packed his car and left. wonderful. I would love to see this become the ing 200 miles, in two days is no easy task, even July.” He moved the Chicago about 11 years ago. premier event people do in the first part of the for an experienced athlete and to see people The co-captains on Team Shaine this year are Now 38, Wynsma lives in Wrigleyville and is summer, just like the [Chicago] Marathon seems both positive and negative take this on, and Brian Harder, Bill Fischer and Paul Hirsch. self-employed as a personal trainer and his busi- to be [every October]. complete it, makes you feel like a superhero, “My future vision for Team Shaine is to use it ness is, appropriately named, Shaine Fitness. “Initially, my doctor told me about the Ride and I know several, healthy negative people who as a way for people to get involved with charity He’s healthy and happier than ever, but single, and I thought it would be a great challenge wouldn’t even attempt this Ride.” bicycle rides,” Wynsma said. “Providing training which does make him sad, he admits. physically. I am not a big runner, but have al- Wynsma has, for the past several years, cap- and fundraising help. I think it would be a great “I am healthier than I was [when living in ways ridden my bike. Before the first Ride I did, tained his Ride team. Naturally, it’s called, Team goal for my clients and anybody else to go for.” Michigan],” Wynsma said. “I didn’t workout as a friend of mine, Greg Fanning, died. He was Shaine—and it has about 30 riders this year, up Wynsma will be among many Ride participates much [back then and my] diet was pretty poor; I found in his apartment. He was Positive and from 11 last year. this year sporting an orange flag on their bicycle didn’t invest a whole lot of thought into my own struggled with some issues, [and yet] if he knew “The people of Team Shaine are some of the to symbolize that, yes, they are HIV-positive. medical needs. It must be that survival instinct/ TPAN could help, he just might still be around. coolest and most passionate people I have met,” “The purpose of the [orange] flags is to show competitive drive of mine. That’s part of why I ride—I want people to know Wynsma said. “We were not the first ones across how intermingled people are, people who are “But, I decided I was not going to be one of that there is a place for someone who is posi- the finish line [last year], but that’s not what positive and people who are negative, and to the people they showed, shriveled and miser- tive, [perhaps] struggling with addiction prob- [the Ride] is about. It is, instead, coming in as show we are all in this together, fighting for the able and alone in a hospital room on the news. lems, that there is a non-judging, safe and ef- a team, and I wanted everyone to share that same result. Surviving and living,” he said. That image just did not fit. I have also learned fective place to get help. The money I help bring feeling of accomplishment and being cheered And certainly not alone, dying or dead, stuck to be more self-sufficient. When you are con- in makes sure those programs stay afloat and the in together.” (For more on Team Shaine, go to: in a dark, dusty office with no voice. fronted with a drastic event and your own part- doors stay open.” www.teamshaine.com.) 22 June 15, 2011 WINDY CITY TIMES
Teddy Green keeping pace with AIDS By Ross Forman
His title this summer with the AIDS Founda- tion of Chicago’s (AFC’s) Team To End AIDS (T2) endurance training program is site assistant, meaning, Teddy Greene does anything and ev- erything needed. “I am a certified water boy out on the course,” he said, laughing. “Seriously, I am there to as- sist the coaches in whatever they may need. Running errands, running to help set up, and just being there to support those who need it with anything.” Greene, 29, a Lakeview resident and hair styl- ist at Salon V, has run the Chicago Marathon in Barack Obama (middle) at the 2005 AIDS Foundation of Chicago gala, with Isaiah Crawford the past and is now training for the annual Ride (left) and Mark Ishaug. For AIDS in July, his second time doing the two- day, 200-mile bicycle ride. ISHAUG from page 15 It’s got a smaller budget, a smaller board, fewer “T2 is organized, efficient, and the friendliest staff, and it has many, many fewer resources. staff that makes people jump over hurdles every- nutritious meal every day, we’re failing. And But I felt like I had an opportunity here, es- day,” Greene said. “T2 means the world to me. from my AIDS statistics work, there is no way pecially with the National AIDS Strategy and When I decided to start running three years ago, Teddy Green. Photo by Alberto Perez we’ll be successful in keeping people healthy, healthcare reform, to do something just a little I needed something to push me and keep me keeping them on their meds, unless we make bit different. motivated. The staff did that for me. Any ques- sure that they have food and nutrition. So I’m But you know, I have to say: I never would tions I asked were answered quickly, any slight I’m not worried about being able do anything excited, and again, it’s about the intersections. have stepped away or stepped up to this chal- injury was put at top priority, and any doubts I desire to do. I am, though, worried about the … I think one of the reasons they’re interested lenge if it weren’t for David Munar, my deputy I had [about] not finishing that first marathon stigma this virus still has. I hate thinking that in me is that I come to the anti-hunger and food director, who was able to—and did—step in as was out the door before I started at the actual people look at me like I have, ‘the gay disease.’ advocacy world from a different world. I’m com- CEO. We didn’t miss a beat. So I didn’t know marathon in 2009.” I hate when people cry when I tell them [that ing from an AIDS world and from a healthcare when I was going to leave the AIDS Foundation Greene has completed three marathons in sup- I am HIV-positive] because I am OK living with world. So that’s exciting. of Chicago, but I knew that I could leave be- port of T2, with his best time (4:52) being in this.” I’m always looking for the intersection. I’m cause I had worked closely with David for almost London this past spring. Greene is a spokesman for AFC, thanks to a doing a big project with the National Network to 20 years, and I believed—and then the board “I will continue running and supporting T2 un- five-minute video made and produced about End Domestic Violence, helping build curricula believed; the board hired him, I did not—that til my body says, ‘No more of this crazy stuff,’” Greene. All T2 marathon runners saw the Greene for DV providers and AIDS providers. That’s the he was the right person at the right time to lead Greene said. “I remember saying last year, ‘I will video at marathon training opening day in late kind of stuff that really energizes me: looking the organization and take it to the next level. run a marathon any day instead of doing the April. at where we can intersect our worlds. Because So I am so proud of so many things at the Ride For AIDS again.’ Funny thing, I’ll be riding “Since finding out [that I am HIV-positive], I people with AIDS don’t live in a silo, they’re not AIDS Foundation of Chicago, but among the again this July.” feel like I have been given a second chance at just people with AIDS—they’re people with ev- things that I’m most proud of is David. And our Also, Green is a co-captain for the bike team life, been given a chance to prove to myself that erything else. So that’s where I’m at, and that’s relationship, and his willingness to … he was known as Richard’s Riders. I can do anything, given a chance to change where I’m going. both a great teacher and mentor to me, but he “The ride is just another mental challenge to the world,” Greene said. “With the people and WCT: You are now with AIDS United. It’s was always wanting to learn, every single day, push through,” Greene said. “There is no reason friends who I have met over this journey of a merger between the National AIDS Fund so that when the time came for him to step up, why anyone cannot complete the Ride For AIDS. fundraising [for HIV/AIDS] and endurance sport (NAF) and AIDS Action combining three de- he could do it, and here he is now. Anything is possible when you put your mind to activities, I couldn’t have done it without any cades of HIV/AIDS policy and advocacy. Was WCT: And here you are now. it, especially when you have your friends and of them. By doing these things, it’s given me there a defining moment when you knew that MI: And here I am now. It’s funny how things the wonderful support TPAN gives during train- power, confidence and strength to believe I have it was time to switch over from a local office work out. I had no plans. If you would have ing and the day of the ride.” anything I want to do, and anything I set my in Chicago to a national office? asked me a year ago, “Oh, well, are you going Greene, who is single, has been working at mind to. HIV has changed my life for the better. MI: I tell people I woke up one morning and to leave the AIDS Foundation at the end of the Salon V for four years. He has been living in Chi- Does that mean I like living with this disease? I was 47 and I’m like, “Oh my God, I’ve been year?” I would have said, “Are you insane?” But cago for more than seven years and is originally No, of course I would rather not be HIV-positive, at the AIDS Foundation of Chicago since I was you just know when it feels like it’s the right from Tallahassee, Fla.: “I definitely owe it to but I stand behind myself and scream out loud 27, I’ve got to do something else!” I want to time, and it felt like it was the right time. And this city. Chicago has made me into the person I that the disease won’t beat me down. be clear: I love, love, love, love— I can’t say it I also think that the AIDS Foundation will be a am today. This city gives me passion and allows “I am proud. My friends support me; my fam- enough times—the AIDS Foundation of Chicago. better and stronger and even cooler place now me to dream big and accomplish goals that I set ily supports me, my co-workers support me; my I really think it is the best—not one of the best; that I’m gone. for myself.” clients support me; my community supports me. it is the best AIDS organization in the whole WCT: Why do you say that? Greene has been HIV-positive for almost four I am fortunate to have such a wonderful group world. And I love it. I love the staff. I love the MI: Because change is good, you know? Just years. of people in my life. board. I love the community. And together with like I think my arrival at AIDS United is going to “I can’t forget the day I learned I was HIV- “I’m faced with the disease every day when all these people, I really took the AIDS Founda- be good for AIDS United and the sector. There is positive. I was in shock,” Green said. “I was in I take my meds, but it doesn’t faze me one bit tion, I think, to a great place, doing great work a regeneration and a rejuvenation when there’s a committed relationship for about three years because I am a better, stronger person because with great impact. change. You’ve just got to seize the moment. at that point, and thought the trust we had for of it.” I just felt that it was really a great moment WCT: Carpe diem. The world is a better place each other was strong enough to not cheat on Greene admitted he was in “awe and shock,” for me to try to do something else on a national with you in it. each other. I was wrong. Not only did I find out not to mention “nervous” when T2 representa- level, to have an additional impact, not a bet- MI: Thank you. I just feel like the luckiest guy I was cheated on, I found out I was living with tive Dan Lakin asked him in 2010 to be a part of ter impact or a bigger impact, just a different in the whole world, that I get to wake up in the the disease that I promised my mom and dad I the video. impact. To sort of bring those skills, and all that morning, sometimes in Chicago, sometimes in never would contract. I still remember saying, “The Ride For AIDS and the T2 gives me pas- good energy, to the national arena, and try to Washington, sometimes in New York, but that ‘That won’t happen to me; I won’t get HIV.’” sion to finish strong, gives me support that I help folks throughout the country collectively I get to wake up in the morning and to do this However, Greene is now healthy and happy, can accomplish the feat, gives the community figure out if there’s a better, more effective way good work. It’s a privilege, and I feel that every two years after starting his medication. In fact, around me, meaning, those living with the dis- we can be doing our work. single day. At the end, hopefully I’m changing a doctor at Howard Brown Health Center recently ease, have the chance to get their meds, hous- And I was so lucky, just so lucky, to be offered the world a little bit, and hopefully I’m adding told him, “You’re healthier than the average per- ing and support they need through the fundrais- this opportunity to run this new organization value to the fight, and to peoples’ lives, most son.” ing efforts I defeat everyday,” Greene said. and to try to do some really hard work in a really importantly. But I don’t think for one minute “The emotions of living with this virus have To support Greene’s fundraising for the an- challenging environment. AIDS United is much that I am not privileged beyond words to be able definitely been hard,” Greene admitted. “I’m not nual Ride For AIDS, go to: http://bit.ly/Ted- smaller than the AIDS Foundation of Chicago. to do this work. worried about death any sooner than before. dys2ndRideforAIDS WINDY CITY TIMES June 15, 2011 23 GOINGS-ON WINDY CITY TIMES’ ENTERTAINMENT SECTION
Photo courtesy of TV Land A FRAN-DO ATTITUDE Fran Drescher and John Michael Higgins star in Happily Divorced, based on her marriage to gay ex Peter Marc Jacobson. Jacobson’s on page 33. THEATER MUSIC/TV COMEDY Go ‘west.’ All that Caz. Laughter effects. Page 28. Page 29. Page 40.
Photo courtesy of PR photo of Cazwell Photo of Cameron Esposito The Gift Theatre courtesy of Esposito
NUNN ON ONE SM: I am not so sure I stay young. [Laughs] But I will tell you, once you decide that life itself is show business and everything you do is a theatrical choice, an act, there is no point in Shirley MacLaine: getting upset about anything. WCT: I liked in your book how you don’t get caught up in the whole celebrity business. Legend discusses SM: Yeah, I never have. I don’t know why. Well, maybe because I am a dancer so that is basically it. I am disciplined and a team player. I never films, androgyny did like the red carpet stuff. I didn’t impress the designers either because they didn’t want me to here. wear their dresses. SM: Oh, golly. Be careful down there. WCT: One of your fans wanted me to men- WCT: I wrote a story in New Mexico recently tion Sweet Charity and how underrated it is. where you live. The locals told me that you SM: It was Fosse’s first picture. We had quite shop at Whole Foods there. a history together. He found me in Pajama Game SM: [Laughs] Oh, yeah; sure I do! and then I brought him out to Hollywood to do movies. Lew Wasserman did not believe that he WCT: I was in Albuquerque, Santa Fe and Shirley MacLaine. Truth or Consequences. was going to be able to direct and thought of SM: Don’t you just love it there? It is so beau- him as just a choreographer. I knew how he felt WCT: Pictures seem to be very important tiful. about Fellini and what a fan he was of some to you and you have a whole wall of life in WCT: It’s amazing. You have a big house of the Italian greats. I just spoke to Nicole the your house. Do you have a backup in case of a there? other day about something that she is doing. To fire? SM: Yes, I actually have a house in Santa Fe have a conversation with his daughter so many SM: Oh, sure I do. Of course I do and put them and a ranch out in Abiquiu. I do my past life years later was really fascinating for me. on digital because you never know what can seminars out at my ranch. WCT: What movie role has been the most similar to you as a person? happen. I don’t even like to think about that. BY JERRY NUNN WCT: There are a lot of ghosts out there, They will be all right if anything happens. aren’t there? SM: I would Aurora Greenway was quite simi- lar to me from Terms of Endearment. I won the WCT: In the book you write about differ- Named after Shirley Temple, Shirley MacLaine SM: Well, there is a lot of energy that is still Oscar for it and I am not sure that I was acting. ent lifetimes, explaining homosexuality and has had a life growing up in show business since alive. Well, everything is alive. That is why Geor- I was just playing myself. transgender. That is an interesting idea. she was very young. Nominated many times for gia O’ Keefe was so fascinated with it. Jerry, you WCT: It is such a compliment that you won SM: Well, it is and I think it’s true. More and Academy Awards before winning for Terms of En- know she had a sense of being able to feel other an award for it. more people that experience this way of thought dearment, from The Trouble with Harry, her first dimensional frequencies. That is why she paint- SM: Yes, it was. She was an extraordinary char- are seeing that the soul itself is androgynous. film, to Steel Magnolias and Postcards From the ed it all of the time. acter. She was my favorite by the way. It is a perfect match and balance of yin and Edge, this actress knows how to create memo- WCT: I went to her museum while I was WCT: Are you working on current movie yang. Those are the only two energies, as I rable roles. there and it was breathtaking. projects? learned it, in the cosmos. So okay you have a She just released her book I’m Over All That SM: Yes, it is. She was quite a person. She was SM: I am going to do one in August. We are soul with a typically balanced yin and yang then and Other Confessions. She talked about what not as much of a female liberator as you think. waiting for it all to come together. But my date why wouldn’t you want your body to reflect that she is over these days. Well, she thought she was. is on August 22nd to start that. Then I have perfection. I think that is what a lot of these Windy City Times: Hello, Mrs. MacLaine. WCT: For her time, maybe… another one in November. I am writing another people are doing. Then I have the audacity to Shirley MacLaine: Hey, Jerry. How are you do- SM: Well, maybe but even then she was always book. I like to work, well not work so much but I say this is what I believe to be in a body that ing? under the influence of men really. like to be creative. That is basically what I do. is both or I am in the wrong body and want to WCT: I am good. I am writing at travel story WCT: How do you stay so young? Is it diet or WCT: That might be what keeps you young! Turn to page 39 in Mexico so wanted to call you up while I was hiking with your dog Terry? SM: That is probably it, absolutely. 24 June 15, 2011 WINDY CITY TIMES WINDY CITY MEDIA GROUP PRESENTS
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9th Annual 2011 votING guide WINDY CITY Presented by Windy City Media Group GAY IDOL
Christine 1 E 2 Ben 3 Amy 4 Shaun 5 Casey 6 The Glenwood The Glenwood Crew DS Tequila Co. Parlour Scarlet
Single or taken? Single or taken? Single or taken? Single or taken? Single or taken? Single or taken? Single and loving friends! Taken. Single. Single. Single. Taken. In a relationship with What do you do when not What do you do when not What do you do when not What do you do when not What do you do when not someone truly special for over singing? singing? singing? singing? singing? 3 years now. I write music; it never stops! I travel and do gardening. Strive to be filthy/gorgeous. Teach social studies. Run the Palm Court at the What do you do when not Who’s your gay idol? Who’s your gay idol? Who’s your gay idol? Who’s your gay idol? Drake Hotel. Come see me singing? Still Ellen--her swag is Susan, the DJ at The David Bowie. My softball team (big chicks for tea! I am an actor. amazing! Glenwood. Most played on your iPod? gone wild!). Who’s your gay idol? Who’s your gay idol? Most played on your iPod? Most played on your iPod? “Waterloo Sunset” by The Most played on your iPod? Tim Gunn, for his Dan Savage because of his “Beautiful” by India.Arie. I don’t use an iPod. Kinks. Currently anything by Adele. impeccable style. amazing “It Get’s Better” Fav part of performing? Fav part of performing? Fav part of performing? Fav part of performing? Most played on your iPod? campaign. Definitely audience response. The audience. The propositions for casual The drink after. Anything by Whitney! Most played on your iPod? Why should you be the Why should you be the sex. Why should you be the Fav part of performing? “Bloody Mary” by Lady Gaga. next Gay Idol? next Gay Idol? Why should you be the next Gay Idol? The crowd having fun and Fav part of performing? Because I openly represent As a gay man I would next Gay Idol? To follow in the footsteps of singing along. Definitely audience response. and support my people love to represent the gay Freddy Mercury said so in many hags, such as Lady Why should you be the Why should you be the wholeheartedly. The voice is community. It would be an his will. Gaga, Bette Midler, and so next Gay Idol? next Gay Idol? a bonus! honor! on. I love performing and it I’ve always enjoyed being would be a dream of mine to onstage and performing. hold this title.
Sylviette 7 James 8 TJ 9 Jennie 10 Michael 11 GLB 12 Jackhammer Jackhammer T’s T’s Roscoe’s The Call
Single or taken? Single or taken? Single or taken? Single or taken? Single or taken? Single or taken? Taken. Taken. Taken. Taken. Married since August 2010. Single. What do you do when not What do you do when not What do you do when not What do you do when not What do you do when not What do you do when not singing? singing? singing? singing? singing? singing? I work as a certified nursing Study journalism at DePaul. Program Coordinator for the Dancing. Teach at North Park U, lead Freelance illustrator and indie assistant and travel in my Who’s your gay idol? International Human Rights Who’s your gay idol? worship at Achurch4me? singer/songwriter/producer. spare time. My incredibly accepting and Law Institute. Hmmmm ... MCC, and coach people Who’s your gay idol? Who’s your gay idol? supportive mother, who Who’s your gay idol? Most played on your iPod? through P90X. Don’t have any. Luther Vandross. comes to every show. (Hi, Whitney Houston (pre-, “Turning Tables” by Adele. Who’s your gay idol? Most played on your iPod? Most played on your iPod? Mom!) intra-, and post-) drugs/ Fav part of performing? Levi Kreis. A lot of Adele, as well as “Spend My Life” by Tamia Most played on your iPod? Bobby Brown. The adrenaline rush and Most played on your iPod? Sarah McLachlan. and Eric Benet. It’s likely something by Adele Most played on your iPod? making people smile. “Hardly a Hero” by Levi Fav part of performing? Fav part of performing? at the moment. “Make Your Own Kind of Why should you be the Kreis. I like to look for different ways Getting in front of the crowd Fav part of performing? Music” by Mama Cass Elliott. next Gay Idol? Fav part of performing? of conveying the feelings and making them groove. The feeling of being onstage Fav part of performing? I am unique, have fun, and Inspiring others to be their behind the song. Why should you be the performing for an audience. The fear you get beforehand can see the brighter side of best. Why should you be the next Gay Idol? Why should you be the and the processes of anything. Why should you be the next Gay Idol? I’m a vibrant young woman next Gay Idol? working through that. next Gay Idol? I’m always up for different who isn’t afraid to let the I believe I have shown the Why should you be the To use this opportunity to ways to express myself as an Creaoke world hear my vocal talent, versatility and next Gay Idol? launch a performing career. artist. song. dedication to deserve this Because ... it gets better. I will not take this chance year’s title. lightly.
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THANKS TO THE BARS PRESENTING SPONSORS FOR HELPING US FIND
Century Gothic font: SUCH TALENT! For all other descriptors and such.
WINDY CITY MEDIA GROUP WOULD LIKE TO THANK THE FOLLOWING SPONSORS FOR HELPING TO MAKE THIS YEAR’S WINDY CITY GAY IDOL THE FIERCEST ROUND TO DATE: 26 June 15, 2011 WINDY CITY TIMES
Baird & Warner hosts John Arthur Lewis and Jill Connolly in Lips Together, Teeth Apart. Photo from the company
THEATER REVIEW their exact and often blunt thoughts rather than ‘OUT of the Office’ 2011 having other characters or incidents draw out BY CONSTANCE RUHOLL grateful. We are the city’s only meals on wheels their feelings. Lips Together, and groceries program for men, women, and chil- McNally also features a physically violent Baird & Warner celebrated its annual “OUT of the dren all living with HIV and AIDS. We started the Teeth Apart struggle in the middle of Lips Together that is Playwright: Terrence McNally Office” LGBTQ Pride Month event June 7 at the program about 25 years ago when our friends oddly resolved as if it never happened. But this At: Remarcable Productions Vertigo Sky Lounge downtown. were homebound, bed-ridden, and dropping like unconvincing bit of conflict could also extend at Viaduct Theater, 3111 N. Western Chicago publicist Andrew Hayes said, “It’s one flies. We couldn’t save them; all we could do was from the feeling that Remarcable’s Lips Together Phone: 773-296-6024; $18 of the first events to kick off the month and it’s feed them.” cast under Seth Remington’s direction isn’t al- Runs through: July 2 Baird & Warner Vice President and Chief Mar- ways up to the demands of embodying the char- just professional. People give a donation at the keting Officer Jim Schiefelbein said, “We need to acters’ deeper emotional truths. door and they get a drink in exchange. Every BY SCOTT C. MORGAN As the annoyingly bubbly and musical theater- year we benefit a different charity.” support those who support us in the community. loving Chloe, Jeanne T. Arrigo’s continual blab- The event, in its sixth year, serves as a fund- Times are tough and they are especially tough When Terrence McNally’s off-Broadway drama bing comes off as more effortful instead of sec- raiser for a charity in the community; this year for people living with HIV and AIDS who are see- Lips Together, Teeth Apart debuted in 1991, it ond nature. (We also need to get a better sense the beneficiary was Vital Bridges. Vital Bridges ing their funding and food literally ripped from could have been lumped together with a number of Chloe over-accommodating to paper over is a non-profit organization that provides food, their mouths. We need to stand up as a com- of “AIDS plays” at the time. cracks in her troubled marriage.) nutrition, housing, case management and pre- munity as we’ve done in the past and help those However, as evidenced in Remarcable Produc- I would have liked a more stark fear of mor- vention services to people throughout the com- people out.” tions’ revival at the Viaduct Theatre, Lips Togeth- tality from John Arthur Lewis’ take on haughty munity who are suffering and impacted by HIV Even though there was only a suggested do- er now comes across more as a conflicted play John, while Jill Connolly’s quiet meekness as and AIDS. The organization recently announced nation of $10 at the door, the generous dona- that underscores the subtle and overt homopho- Sally doesn’t plumb the depths of a grieving that it will merge with Heartland Alliance July tions from attendees helped Vital Bridges with bia of two heterosexual couples. This prejudice, woman questioning the unfairness of her per- 1. $1,114. along with a myriad of other issues and secrets, sonal life. Christopher Marcum gets the right Open Hand Co-Founder/ Vital Bridges Food Photos by Hal Baim come to the fore as the couples spend the 1991 amount of tough-guy earthiness down for Sam, Program Coordinator Lori Cannon said, “We are Fourth of July weekend cooped in a beach house though he could work on his comic delivery. in the largely gay enclave of Fire Island, N.Y. Asking an audience to spend time with these This fish-out-of-water set-up occurs because often unlikable characters with varying degrees Sally has inherited her late gay brother’s ocean- of homophobia isn’t exactly an exciting proposi- front property following his death from AIDS. tion in Lips Together, Teeth Apart. (It becomes Along for the weekend are Sally’s uncouth New contemptible when we learn how everyone Jersey husband, Sam; his chatterbox suburban avoids the onstage swimming pool because they sister, Chloe; and her snooty husband, John. fear getting infected while taking a dip.) Hope- McNally clearly modeled this drama on Chek- fully, we can look at McNally’s play nowadays hov, complete with metaphorical incidents (like as both a period piece and reminder of how far the suicidal swimmer possibly representing the more Americans have progressed when it comes heterosexual community’s complicit inaction on to AIDS education and LGBT awareness. so many AIDS deaths) and the general emotional malaise that affects all the characters. However,
McNally seems to take the easy route out dra- matically by having his characters soliloquize SPOTLIGHT
Time is running out to catch a unique col- laboration between Steppenwolf Theatre and Northwestern University directing and design- ing students called Next Up. Three plays, Rajiv Joseph’s Animals Out of Paper, Lucy Thurber’s Where We’re Born and Suzan Lori-Parks’ Venus rotate in repertory as theater professionals work with the next generation of theater artists. Next Up productions of Venus, Where We’re Born and Animals Out of Paper play in repertory through June 19 at the Steppenwolf Garage Theatre, 1624 N. Halsted. Tickets are $20 or $45 for each performance. Call 312-335-1650 or visit http:// www.steppenwolf.org. Photo of Shane Kenyon and Caroline Neff in Where We’re Born taken by Michael Brosilow. WINDY CITY TIMES June 15, 2011 27 THEATER REVIEW As with most such pageants, the quality is far from uniform: some cultural references may lost The Chicago on playgoers from outside the site under scru- tiny. Jamil Khoury’s discussion of Arab-American Landmark Project relations is no less didactic for being conducted Playwright: Various authors by two attractive women in athleticwear, as is At: Theatre Seven of Chicago J. Nicole Brooks’ analysis of urban decay as ex- at the Greenhouse, 2257 N. Lincoln plained by a street artist to a West Coast tour- Phone: 773-404-7336; $15-$30 ist. The Red Orchid Youth Ensemble enlivens a Runs through: July 10 lengthy sermon on the gospel according to L. Frank Baum, but adolescent fury cannot bridge BY MARY SHEN BARNIDGE the ellipses in Yolanda Nieves’ muddy saga of family conflicts, and Robert Koon’s father- The Chicago Landmark Project is divided, festi- daughter confidences never lose sight of who’s val-style, into two “programs” of six short plays guiding the conversation. apiece, but in fact, the two parts taken together On the other hand, Brian Golden’s chance comprise a running time no longer than your av- meeting between a pair of U. of C. eggheads— erage high-end night at the theater. Unlike most one “out,” one undecided—offers an opportu- snapshot anthologies, however, the roster is not nity for a deftly-wrought exchange of academic a simple medley of comedy sketches, snippets double-entendres, and Laura Jacqmin’s two bus- from plays-in-progress, group poetry-recitals and kers at a farmers’ market forge a plea for unity— and a few clever songs—from the catalogue of wares for purchase, before Aaron Carter sends us home after our adventures with a ghostly reminder that even legendary fantasy-kingdoms had—and continues to have—their shadowy side. Hey, would it be still be Chicago any other The Chicago Landmark Project’s “Division & California” (left) and “Logan & Milwaukee” (above). way? Photos by Amanda Clifford
esprit de l’escalier ruminations (though elements of all these genres make their appearance). Theatre Seven’s project proposal was for a number of playwrights to each select a corner MY PASSION IS of their city as the subject of a 10-minute play. Introducing the geographical theme is Marisa CREATING THE Wegrzyn’s speculation on the inventor of the EXPERIENCE. State-and-Madison city grid pitching his idea to his wife (“You’ll never be lost! The whole city is yours!”). From there, we proceed through Oz Park to a liquor store at 63rd and Garfield, then to Humboldt Park and Logan Square, stopping at a fashionable coffee shop in Hyde Park, a record shop in Lincoln Square, a vintage dress shop in Wicker Park and many other urban enclaves, concluding our tour amid the haunted ruins of Riverview. CRITICS’ PICKS
The Front Page, TimeLine Theatre, through July 17. Ben Hecht and Charles MacArthur’s classic 1920s Chicago journalism comedy gets a crackling good production that is so intimate that the audience practically gets to be on top the action. SCM The Outgoing Tide, Northlight Theatre, through June 26. The seventysomething Gunnar has a degenerative disease and would sooner die than vegetate. What do his wife and son think? Thorny subject, intelligent writing, wonderful acting with John Mahoney at his acerbic best. JA SUMMER SESSION STARTS JULY 11 A Twist of Water, Route 66 Theatre at the Where will your passion take you? Mercury, through June 26. Chicago’s histor- Picture yourself managing amazing events? Envision running a world-class hotel or ical legacy comes to the aid of lovers and restaurant? Or maybe your career could take you around the globe. families in what may prove to be Chicago’s next breakout hit, following in the wake of The School of Hospitality Management at Kendall College * Osage County and Chad Deity. MSB Offi cial Affi liate Institution of Glion Institute of Higher Education Watership Down, Lifeline Theatre, • Learn the art of hospitality and the science of management from leading industry experts through June 19. Rabbits have always num- • Enhance your career opportunities with a Glion Advanced Certifi cate in International bered among the most empathetic of folk- Hospitality Management (as part of your B.A. degree) tale creatures, and never more so than in • Choose from fl exible programs–including weekends and online this classical myth transposed to lapin cul- ture with all the heroic violence and glory Follow Your Passion Today intact. MSB DiscoverKendallCollege.com —By Abarbanel, Barnidge 800.639.7753 and Morgan * In a global survey of 5-star hotel hiring managers, Glion was ranked number two among all international hospitality management schools for an international career (Taylor Nelson Sofres 2010). 900 N. North Branch Chicago, IL 60642 BUSINESS. CULINARY ARTS. EDUCATION. HOSPITALITY MANAGEMENT. 28 June 15, 2011 WINDY CITY TIMES THEATER REVIEW investigation over missing drugs, a reformed- addict romantic rival) and cuddly-comic (Aunt THEATER REVIEW Northwest Highway Joyce’s African-American Hyde Park-academic Playwright: William Nedved husband, Colin’s propensity for Latino boys). Lighthousekeeping At: Gift Theatre Company, Under Si Osborne’s deft direction, however, what Playwright: Georgette Kelly from 4802 N. Milwaukee could have deteriorated into domestic hankie- the Jeanette Winterson novel Phone: 773-283-7071;$25-$30 wringing emerges a surprisingly uncluttered 90 At: New Leaf Theatre at Runs through: July 17 minutes on Gift Theatre’s snug stage, its weighty the Storefront Theatre, 66 E. Randolph complications proceeding at a tempo neither Tickets: 312-742-8497; BY MARY SHEN BARNIDGE overly-rushed nor cloyingly maudlin, even as its http://www.dcatheater.org; $25 physical action never seems cramped by Adam Runs through: July 17 Once its inhabitants have assimilated into mid- Lucas Veness’ museum-replica backyard/porch/ dle-class culture, a ghetto ceases to be a ghetto basement-stairs scenic design. BY JONATHAN ABARBANEL and becomes “The Old Neighborhood,” its pa- None of this would matter if the actors did rochialism recalled with nostalgic affection by not likewise resist the temptation to mock the I’m told Lighthousekeeping is a magical novel those safely distanced therefrom. These altered stereotypical aspects of their characters, instead with a huge following, so I wanted this world- perceptions do not necessarily reflect hypocrisy. delving to the heart of the identity crises facing premiere stage adaptation to enchant me. It The decision to abandon the security of having the denizens of a district much like that right didn’t because I couldn’t hear it, or at least your life’s path pre-determined by others for outside the theater, but could just as easily be not enough of it. Sure, I could hear the sound the uncertainty of making your own way among any place perceived by restless youths as better of words, but I couldn’t understand them. I strangers is a choice fraught with trauma, but to be from than to be in. Isn’t looking back al- missed important exposition and events in one that must be confronted to achieve true ways more comfortable than venturing forward? this narrator-driven story, and I missed them adulthood. for two reasons. The Chicago community whose foundation is First, director Jessica Hutchinson and sce- the highway of our play’s title is rooted in blue- nic designer Michelle Lilly chose to use the collar Irish/Eastern European values, spawning Storefront Theater in a so-called alley con- Catholic school-educated clans of teachers, fire- figuration, with the audience on two sides men, policemen and parents. Our thirtysome- and the stage running the length of the the- From left: Tim Martin and Daniel McEvilly thing hero is a product of this insular environ- ater between them. This meant that half the in Lighthousekeeping. Photo by John W. ment: a law enforcement officer (albeit with a time the actors were facing away from me, Sisson, Jr. college degree in philosophy, of all subjects), speaking to the folks across the alley in an now encumbered with a hoggish (and possibly acoustically unfriendly hall. Second, the ac- love, duality and nature/nurture. Robert Lou- crooked) work-partner, a barmaid girl friend tors frequently spoke at the level of an off- is Stevenson and Charles Darwin make cameo (who’s just announced that she’s pregnant), and stage intimate conversation. This is all too appearances to expound on the latter two is- the family house (filled with the detritus of gen- common in smaller Off-Loop houses: actors sues. erations). Oh, and a pair of dueling real estate and directors forget that projection is neces- The physical staging is quite fine, notwith- agents guiding him to a suitable environment sary even in intimate spaces. Acting is not standing how it exacerbates acoustical is- for a family man—one of them, his boyhood real conversation. Audiences cannot fill in sues. Lilly’s expansive and imaginative scenic buddy (who is now out-and-proud gay) and the the blanks—if there are blanks—as directors design features second-story platforms at other, his bossy aunt (who, at 42, fled to em- and actors can, having heard the lines over either end of the alley stage, topped by semi- brace the yuppie lifestyle with a vengeance). and over in rehearsal. abstract pinwheels of bricks and sculptings This is enough premise to fuel an entire tele- Northwest Highway. Photo courtesy of the It’s a shame for me more than for the pro- suggesting refracted light. Among the princi- vision series, ripe with promises of subsequent Gift Theatre duction, because I got enough of Lighthouse- pal performers, Ron Butts as Pew is warm and intrigues both sudsy-dramatic (cops under keeping to find it intriguing but not enough charming, Tien Doman and Caroline Phillips to understand its mysticism. It’s a story inside as Silver/Young Silver have earnest and waif- a story inside a story, although the narrative like appeal and Daniel McEvilly’s Babel Dark is of the life of Silver, the 20th-century orphan all tormented sensuality. They offer good per- CULTURE CLUB formances in Rachel Sypniewski’s costumes, hero, and of her mentor, lighthouse man Pew, and of Babel Dark, the 19th-century son of appropriate both to period and character. the lighthouse builder, all are supposed to be However, if you adapt a novel to the stage, Heartbreak House true. Obviously, repetitive cycles of behavior retaining large chunks of third person narra- By GEORGE BERNARD SHAW tion and telling far more than you show, then Directed by WILLIAM BROWN are important involving “fallen” women (in Now Playing at 325 Tudor Court, Glencoe the Victorian sense), opportunistic men and clarity—both figurativeand literal—needs to illegitimate children. Also important are per- be job one. I didn’t dislike Lighthousekeep- “UNQUESTIONABLY sonal and communal narratives as means of ing, but it wasn’t all there for me. BRILLIANT.” self-definition, and there’s a great deal about
“BE AMAZED AND AMUSED.” – CHICAGO SUN-TIMES “VISUALLY GORGEOUS AND Tonys show Among the many other winners were Frances EXCEEDINGLY ARTICULATE McDormand (Best Performance by an Actress PRODUCTION.” has ‘Heart’ in Leading Role in a Play, for Good People), a – CHICAGO TRIBUNE The Broadway production of Larry Kramer’s tearful Nikki M. James (Best Performance by The Normal Heart took three honors at the an Actress in a Featured Role in a Musical, for TICKETS START AT $45 Corporate Sponsor June 12 awards show, which aired on CBS. The Book of Mormon) and Kathleen Marshall WRITERSTHEATRE.ORG Heart, which was first produced off-Broad- (Best Choreography, for Anything Goes). ORDER Foundation Support Lookingglass Theatre Company received a TODAY! WRITERS’ way in 1985, focuses on the early years of 847-242-6000 THEATRE the AIDS epidemic in New York City. It won Regional Theatre Tony Award. It’s the fifth the Tony for Best Revival of a Play, and won Chicago company to be honored. Tony winners awards for Ellen Barkin (Best Performance by Laura Benanti and Katie Finnernan presented an Actress in a Featured Role in a Play) and the award. FOR ANYONE WHO'S out actor John Benjamin Hickey (Best Perfor- Eve Ensler—who has a huge feminist/lesbi- EVER FALLEN IN LOVE mance by an Actor in a Featured Role in a an following because of her work, The Vagina WITH A FRIEND. Play). Monologues—received the Isabelle Steven- In his speech, Kramer said, “Dearest loving son Award. The award is named after the late mother to The Normal Heart, Daryl Roth, gen- president of the American Theatre Wing. JUNE 18 - erous Paul Boskind, and everyone, thank you Openly gay host Neil Patrick Harris was JULY 24, 2011 for this magnificent production. To gay peo- widely praised, setting the tone for the eve- ple everywhere, whom I love so. The Normal ning with a number entitled “Broadway ... Victory Gardens Heart is our history. It could not have been It’s Not Just for Gays Anymore!” Among other Richard Christiansen Theater written had not so many of us so needlessly things, he performed a song-and-dance num- (773)871-3000 died. Learn from it, and carry on the fight. Let ber with Hugh Jackman. aboutfacetheatre.com them know that we are a very special people, Windy City Queercast contributor Colman $28 Tickets an exceptional people. And that our day will Domingo was nominated in the category Best come.” Performance by an Actor in a Featured Role in THE The evening’s big winner was The Book of a Musical for his role in The Scottsboro Boys, Mormon, a musical-comedy about missionar- but lost to John Larroquette (How to Succeed HOMOSEXUALSABOUTFACETHEATRE.COM ies in AIDS-ravaged Africa; the production in Business Without Really Trying). took nine awards, including Best Musical. WINDY CITY TIMES June 15, 2011 29 MUSIC/TELEVISION Cazwell: Throwback videos! That’s such a good Cazwell: Ha, ha! I kid. No. The guys are really question ... Like Missy Elliot’s “The Rain.” That engaging. I think that’s why people pay atten- video made a mark. I know we’d like to keep the tion. The most popular go-go boys at a bar are Cazwell: Not just another DJ majority of the videos current, like in the past the ones who are engaging, who smile. I made year or year and a half. But I would love to get them smile. So they make you think that you BY JOE FRANCO some older ones, though—especially if I can use could approach them ... or even better ... that it to reference another video. they’ll approach you. Cute but with some atti- Cazwell is often called a “gay hip-hop” artist WCT: What’s going on in the NYC music tude. but the man and his music are more than that. scene now? WCT: Are there other artists you’re working Windy City Times got a chance to chat with Ca- Cazwell: Well, there’s lots going on in Brooklyn with? zwell June 10 about his new music video show, right now. But I’m so busy with my own shit that Cazwell: Peaches! I love her. I just did a song Boombox, which airs exclusively on here!TV, it’s hard to keep up. Electrohouse is big right with her. It’s very rock-dance. Very easy to like. and about his music, his videos (including “Ice now. It’s not the best, though. There is way too I don’t have a name for the song yet but we’re Cream Truck”) and his life. much top 40 music being played in gay clubs. between a couple titles. Windy City Times: Hey Cazwell! How are It’s so hard to differentiate between what is club WCT: You’re often described as a “gay hip- you? music and what’s a top 40 song. Like Ke$ha. Her hop artist” or “rapper” but from what I have Cazwell: Well, I just flew in and they lost my music is a super-fast beat but you hear it all heard, I think you’re probably more than luggage—so not great. over the radio. that. WCT: Well that’s a big bummer. WCT: Now I heard a rumor you were coming Cazwell: Thank you! I’m not a hip-hop artist. I Cazwell: Eh. It happens. to Chicago in July. Where are you perform- was introduced to hip-hop when I lived in Bos- WCT: Well, you’ve got a new show premier- ing? ton. I started rapping since I really can’t sing. ing soon, don’t you? Cazwell: It’s not at all confirmed, but I’d like I tried hard to get accepted by that community. Cazwell: Yes, I do! I think it actually premieres to. Chicago is a great music town. I’ve performed They came to the conclusion that no matter how tonight on here!TV. at Berlin and Hydrate a few times. I love Greg good my music was or how good I was, straight WCT: How did you end up landing that gig? [Haus] at Berlin—good stuff. hip-hop people don’t like hanging out with gay Cazwell: Well, the producers of the show sought WCT: Berlin plays your video for “Ice Cream guys. You can’t be a fag and be in hip-hop. If me. They sought me up and down. I think they Truck.” How did that video come together? you are? You better not be out. I like to create narrowed their search to just 12 potential hosts. Cazwell: Basically, I had no money and a small a sound that let’s people be as creative as they We had some meetings. I did my screen test and budget for time. It was for a friend’s movie, called want to be. If I think like that then my music I aced it. I got the job. Spork. I was like, ‘I don’t want to do this song. shows it. WCT: Do you get any say-so or creative di- Can’t you just use one of my old ones?’ He just WCT: What do you want to say to your Chi- rection on the kind of videos you’ll be play- wouldn’t take no for an answer. So I had 45 min- cago fans? ing? utes left before the deadline and it all came to Cazwell: Follow me on Twitter! I’m cazwellnyc. Cazwell: Yes! I work with here!TV and my man- me. My manager suggested I shoot a short video Second, if people like my music then please buy ager. We’ll be featuring everything from alterna- for it. Everything was shot in my apartment. The it. Don’t download it for free. If I get paid, I tive to rock to dance and some pop. What sur- backgrounds were all spandex. It’s dedicated to can actually create more music. It’s just how it prised me the most was the amount of effort it the hot Latino boys in my neighborhood. works. Also, demand me! I want to be a resident takes to get a video on the air. It’s not like I’m WCT: Wait. Those guys live in your neigh- there, even if it’s just bimonthly. streaming YouTube videos. It can be difficult but borhood?!? Cazwell’s new show premiered June 10 on it’s getting better. Cazwell: Well those guys are actually all friends here!TV. The network is available on most WCT: Which artists will you feature? of mine that I get to work with. major cable providers by selecting “Premium” Cazwell: Oh, man. Well I know Hunx and his WCT: That must make for some fun... from the On Demand menu and then selecting Punx, Chris Willis, Ultra Nate, Crystal Waters, Cazwell: What—orgies? “here! On Demand”. You can also subscribe who is making a comeback. She’s got lots of WCT: Oh, no! on-line through http://premiium.heretv.com. new stuff out now. Roxy Cottontail, J.P. Samson, Beth Ditto and Peaches. I love Peaches; she’s kind of an inspiration to me. WCT: Is there anyone that you really would EXTENDED BY POPULAR DEMAND! love to see on the show? Cazwell: Wouldn’t it be amazing if Lady Gaga premiered a video on here!TV? The ratings would be through the roof. Sort of like back in the day when Madonna would premiere something and the world would stop to see it. She’s still around. She just needs more Latin in her life. WCT: I’m definitely old enough to remem- “ ” ber the old-school Madonna videos. Do you DELIVERS FUN TO DIE FOR —Chicago Sun-Times remember your first video? TICKETS It was probably something by Cyndi Lauper— “ � maybe “Girls Just Wanna Have Fun?” I love NOT TO BE MISSED, ����� that—how it’s a mini-movie. Videos today fol- THESE TWO PROS low a format. Okay, lets take three dancers. Now NEVER MISS A BEAT” three scenes. Now dance and sing and cut. There —Northwest Indiana Times is no story. I think some artists are doing more “ ” stories now and I like it. EXUBERANT —Chicagocritic.com WCT: Well about some old-school throwback videos? “ WOULD NO DOUBT Cazwell. MAKE MEL BROOKS GIGGLE GIDDILY ” —New City “ THIS INFECTIOUS NEW BREAKING MUSICAL COULD GET BELLY LAUGHS FROM A CORPSE” NEWS —TimeOut Chicago NOW PLAYING WWW.WINDYCITYMEDIAGROUP.COM ! #'# #$ eee QVWQOU]aVOYSa Q][ 30 June 15, 2011 WINDY CITY TIMES MOVIES I was for several years) to making movies—al- through our Kickstarter campaign. We need though I much prefer making movies. $25,000 for a small crew to accompany Alex This project also means that I can share with from the U.S. to the Middle East where he’ll be Local filmmaker tries to get others my personal story of moving from a place reunited with Ali—we’ll be on location there for of homophobia and intolerance to a place of a few weeks this fall. gay love story off the ground support and advocacy for the LGBT community. WCT: Will the film be produced if you do not BY CONSTANCE RUHOLL In other words, as much as I want to create find enough funds from Kickstarter.com? positive social change in the world, I have to MAL: Well, yes and no. Look, where there’s a I Am the Water, You Are the Sea is a documentary be adamant about making sure I’m being the will there’s a way. I am determined to tell this by Malachi A. Leopold about the love of two men Alex and change I want to see, not just encouraging oth- story no matter what. But I truly believe there that survived political upheaval and continental Ali. ers to do it. are enough people out there who will be in- distance. In Leopold’s words, it is a story about Photo WCT: What about filming do you enjoy spired by this story and what it means, what it breaking down various barriers, including those courtesy most? represents, and get us to our goal. If the “worst” of religion, politics and hate. The documentary of Malachi MAL: On a personal level, I feel like I’m do- happened—well, I guess I’d figure something follows the story of Alex and Ali as they try to A. Leopold ing what I should be doing with my life; I’m out. But one way or another, I’ll be there to film reunite after 33 years of longing separation. very fulfilled doing this work. [It’s] not so much the reunion. This is a story that has to be told. Windy City Times: Where did the idea for because it’s creative or about “making movies,” WCT: How are you raising awareness about the film come from? but really because I see my life as being about the project? Malachi A. Leopold: I’ve been working on I making the world a better place—and how I do MAL: A combination of individuals within my that is through producing and directing films network, outreach to media (blogs, TV, news- Am the Water, You are the Sea for two years. We out, they’d found each other again (via mail), which further positive social change. papers, magazines, etc), and connecting with were wrapping production on another documen- and have now kept in touch (and in love) for On another level—when it comes to the ac- organizations such as the Human Rights Cam- tary at the time (22 Years From Home, which airs years. So my uncle and I spent the last two years tual filming itself—I love the unique access a paign, Human Rights Watch, Immigration Equal- on WTTW Sunday, July 10, at 1 p.m.) and I was working on getting the full story of their time in camera gives you. Access to people and places ity and GLAAD as we build and roll out our social looking for my next project. I had been working Iran together down on paper. you would just never be allowed if you weren’t action campaign. on a number of possible stories which, in one WCT: Where does the film’s title come filming something. It’s so cool sometimes! I can WCT: What kind of audience are you hoping way or another, were addressing how the “West” from? only imagine what that moment is going to be to reach with the film? views and behaves towards Islam and Muslims. MAL: The film’s title comes from a love letter like filming Alex and Ali seeing each other again MAL: Like I say in my pitch video—at its heart, Given the rising tensions with Iran, and the from Ali to Alex—Alex talks about the letter and for the first time in more than 33 years. this is a love story, and I think the tenderness efforts within Iran itself for reform, I felt a story the film’s title in this video we posted here: http:// It’s one of those things you really have to pre- and beauty of it will really touch people. I think about Iran could be great way to show what the www.youtube.com/watch?v=XEV8w7DaZGM pare for, because the emotion of that moment— anyone can connect to the feeling of wanting everyday people of Iran are like, versus the con- WCT: What does filming his story mean to something that literally will and can only happen something so bad, but having a hard time get- stant crap we see about their political leader- you? once in the history of the world—that moment ting it. There is, of course, a natural, built-in ship—their leadership which is not representa- MAL: In one sense, what this film means to can so easily overwhelm you. And instead of be- sort of audience within the LGBT community be- tive of who Iranians are, what they believe and me is that I simply get to continue doing what ing focused on making sure you’re capturing the cause of the film’s themes and our social action what they want their lives to be about. I love most—making a positive impact on the moment on camera with proper light and sound efforts. But I am the Water, You are the Sea is I knew my uncle (Alex) had served with the world around me. A few years ago I stopped and angles and so forth, you’re dabbing your about breaking down barriers—barriers of fear, Peace Corps in Iran, so I approached him about asking myself what I wanted to do, and started eyes and wanting to hug everyone around you. intolerance, misunderstanding, hate. Barriers of his story. What he told me was astounding. A asking what I wanted my life to be about. And Moments like that are very challenging, because politics, religion, laws. Barriers that, for me as secret gay love relationship in 1960s and 1970s what I knew was that, regardless of what I actu- they’re so beautiful to witness, but my job being I was growing up, were rather formidable. But I in Iran, during the rule of the Shah—a relation- ally did on a day-to-day basis, as long as I was there is to capture it, not dissolve into tears. was able to change. ship which was interrupted when he fled the aligned with my values, as long as my time was The tears usually have to wait until we finish a If you would like to help fund the campaign coming Iranian revolution. And a relationship spent being about what was most important to film. for I am the Water, You are the Sea, visit which has survived to this today, despite the me, then the details of the doing could really be WCT: How is the film being funded? http://www.kickstarter.com by July 1. distance. After the revolution had sort of leveled anything from being a financial advisor (which MAL: We’re funding the filming of the reunion WINDY CITY TIMES June 15, 2011 31 MOVIES and Dickens was instructed to get out of the car. “I thought, ‘This is it,’ ” said Dickens, “But then Ky Dickens on her ‘Sole’ ambition he started telling me, ‘this is where the plane went down,’ and then he looked at me and said, ‘I’ve never told anyone this…I’ve never come BY Tully Satre day.” She felt desperate for a break. back here.’ ” Lamson told Dickens he wanted to Dickens headed to the Burning Man festival in make a film with her. For a long time after the release of the LGBT the Black Rock Desert of Nevada, just outside of “I told him if he put his whole self into it, documentary Fish Out of Water, award-winning Reno, in August of last year. During her research then I’d put my whole self into it. It was kind of director Ky Dickens was anxious to start a new about sole survivors she recalled an accident in a dramatic moment,” laughed Dickens; that was project. “This is like when you go out and try Reno with a lone survivor; Galaxy Airlines Flight when she knew she would be making her next to look for a boyfriend or a girlfriend,” Dickens 203 crashed shortly after takeoff in the early film. joked, “You have to wait for it to find you.” Dick- hours of Jan. 21, 1985, killing 73 people. George Having completed a successful bid for $20,000 ens said she knew the right film would eventu- Lamson, 17 at the time, was the sole survivor. on Kickstarter, production for Sole Survivor, is ally come to her. Dickens reached out to him. well underway. Dickens’ ideas for a new project started last The Chicago filmmaker and the sole survivor Sole Survivor will be the second feature film for May. She recalled reading about a 9-year-old met for lunch before Dickens headed into the Yellow Wing Productions, Dickens’ Chicago-based Dutch boy named Ruben van Assouw. Assouw desert for the five-day festival. “We started talk- production company. The film focuses on lone was the sole survivor of Afriqiyah Airways Flight ing and had an ‘a-ha’ moment,” said Dickens. survivors of airplane crashes as they, “embody 771, which crashed on approach to Tripoli In- The two bonded over similar experiences. In the experience of all types of survivor because ternational Airport in the early evening hours high school, Dickens was involved in a fatal car their experience is acute, public and dramatic.” of May 12, 2010. Struck by his amazing story of accident, which left her with guilt she still car- The documentary follows George Lamson, one survival, Dickens was intrigued. She continued ries. Still unsure if she is ready to talk openly Ky Dickens. of fourteen sole survivors in a commuter plane to look into other aviation accidents yielding about what happened, Dickens recalled writing crash. With Dickens, Lamson will embark on a sole or “lone” survivors. a paper about the accident for an English class. journey across eleven countries, three genera- “The more I researched the more I found that Without her consent, the paper was made pub- She said society tends to assign to survivors tions and a myriad of cultures to connect with many [sole survivors] were children,” Dickens lic. Dickens said the publicity made the situa- the need to feel lucky or grateful. After the acci- the thirteen other sole survivors of large-scale said, “[who] just appeared to walk away un- tion worse and only intensified her feelings of dent, Lamson was praised in the media as a hero commercial plane crashes. scathed from accidents where nothing was left.” remorse and responsibility about the events that and the product of a miracle, complicating his “I think there are two things that I like to do At the time, Dickens was not set on the idea for unfolded after the accident. own sense of identity. “We don’t take the time to when deciding what project to work on,” said a film, she was just curious. Althrough her conversation with Lamson, assimilate someone back into society with the Dickens, “I like to find a story or topic that has Her career was already off to a great start. Dickens began to realize how a survivor’s trauma resources they need,” said Dickens. With no one not been covered in a specific way ... and I like Fish Out of Water, Dickens’ first feature film, was often misunderstood. “I think that we’re all to relate to, Lamson was indeed a lone survivor. it to have a spiritual element.” explored the seven Bible passages notoriously guilty of this to some degree,” said Dickens. “If On her way back from Burning Man, Dickens “There were many films that looked at spiri- used to condemn homosexuality and arrest the you hear a guy just came back from war and had six hours to kill before her flight. Though tuality,” Dickens recalled when she first began struggle for equality. The documentary received everyone in his contingent was killed, many she barely knew him, she called Lamson to see filming Fish Out of Water, “but no film that had awards and nominations in festivals all around people would say, ‘you’re so lucky’ … or some- if he would like to meet for breakfast. Lamson looked through the unique passages. None of the the country, and more importantly, provided the one who survived AIDS, while all of his friends picked Dickens up from the airport. After pass- stories in Sole Survivor have ever been collected LGBT community with a tool they did not have died, or the only house standing in an Alabama ing several restaurants, Dickens asked why they in a book or for a film. This film penetrates ques- before. neighborhood after a tornado…we don’t realize had not yet stopped. “He said, ‘I am going to tions about purpose and random chance.” “Fish Out of Water felt like the most difficult the damage of something dying with that person take you somewhere,’ ” remembered Dickens. “I Dickens hopes to wrap up production by thing that I have ever done,” Dickens recalled, that day, too. When you witness an entire com- immediately said to myself, ‘My mother told me the end of the year with an intended release “Because I felt like I needed to give it my full munity obliterated, a great deal of damage is not to get into a car with a stranger!’ ” in 2012. More information is at http://www. undivided attention for three to four years every done.” They stopped at a field on the side of the road solesurvivorfilm.com. 32 June 15, 2011 WINDY CITY TIMES requirement of the plot but not of the charac- www.kickstarter.com/projects/malachileopold/ ter.” Perhaps gay men just have a higher comfort i-am-the-water-you-are-the-sea. level with a guy who is clearly more at ease with Check out my archived reviews at http:// KNIGHT the ladies than the men? (Another intriguing www.windycitymediagroup.com or http:// matter bubbling right under the surface of the www.knightatthemovies.com. Readers can AT show is why Sondheim and Furth, both gay men, leave feedback at the latter website. THE created a landmark musical about the plusses and minuses of marriage in the first place.) MOVIES Sondheim and Furth have always contended Tracy Morgan goes that Bobby is not, never will be and never could be queer (the duo’s updating of the material in on anti-gay rant, the mid-’90s includes Bobby stating emphati- apologizes cally, “I’m not gay”) and it’s true that Company, Comedian and 30 Rock actor Tracy Mor- By in its original and this updated form, wouldn’t gan has been accused of homophobia. Richard really work if the character was. However, at the Kevin Rogers reported on his Facebook Knight, Jr. point that same-sex marriage becomes a nation- page that, while attending Morgan’s stand- al reality in this country, I’m betting the duo up act in Nashville, Tenn., Morgan went on give the show yet one more facelift and we’ll see a viciously anti-gay rant. Rogers alleges Roberta, the bachelorette, content to be single that “Morgan took it upon himself to men- Stephen as she peeks in the lives of the five married gay tion about how he feels all this gay s*it couples who are her best friends. was crazy and that women are a gift from Sondheim’s God and that ‘Born this Way’ is bulls*it, Film notes: Patti LuPone in Stephen Sondheim’s gay is a choice, and the reason he knows —When his mother passed away, filmmaker Company; Company. this is exactly because ‘God don’t make no Mark Wexler tackled his grief in part by exploring mistakes.’” book. (Instead, the freestanding songs comment his own mortality—and maybe, how to prevent Morgan sent the following statement film notes on George Furth’s sometimes humorous and of- it. The resulting film, How to Live Forever, is (through a spokeswoman) to Windy City ten acrid vignettes.) The result left one feeling an eye-opening, sobering and surprisingly— Times: “I want to apologize to my fans disquieted and reflective rather than joyful (as given its subject matter—entertaining tour that and the gay & lesbian community for my Neil Patrick Harris is the latest in a long line of it still does,) though Sondheim’s lyrical insights takes in an undertakers’ convention, a visit to a choice of words at my recent stand-up act gay actors to successfully portray the role of the and gorgeous melodies have always helped ease cryogenic installation and other end-of-life in- in Nashville. I’m not a hateful person and straight, single, middle-aged Bobby with all the the pain of the dark aftertaste that comes from dustries as well as advice on the subject from don’t condone any kind of violence against married friends in Stephen Sondheim’s Com- the bulk of this and many of his other shows. Suzanne Somers, Phyllis Diller, Ray Bradbury others. While I am an equal opportunity pany. This most recent edition, taped before a Longtime Sondheim collaborator Lonny Price and a host of scientists working on extending jokester, and my friends know what is in live audience with the New York Philharmonic in has staged the show with revolving, modular set life well beyond its current expiration date. The my heart, even in a comedy club this clear- April, is coming to movie theatres for just four pieces; minimal but clever choreography; and film’s Chicago premiere opens at the Gene Siskel ly went too far and was not funny in any dates—June 15, 16, 19 and 21—a rare chance retro costumes harkening back to 1970, when Film Center, 164 N. State, Friday, June 17. Wex- context.” for fans of musical theatre to merge with fans of Company opened on Broadway—all of which ler will be present for post-screening discussions However, some were not satisfied with movie musicals. Need I mention that both cate- certainly help. The bulk of the performances sur- the opening weekend. www.siskelfilmcenter.org an apology. Human Rights Campaign Vice gories are chock full of Our People who shouldn’t rounding Harris’ solid work at the center also are —The Siskel is also celebrating gay pride with President of Communications Fred Sainz miss this rare opportunity to see, hear and glo- blessings. Sondheim’s sensational score is sung a 20th-anniversary screening of Todd Haynes’ said in a statement, “Tracy Morgan exer- rify in all things Sondheim? well, if not particularly memorably (Harris and seminal queer classic Poison on June 18 and 22. cised extremely poor judgment and he did Harris is supported by an illustrious cast of LuPone’s solos aside), backed by the 35-piece (A new 35mm print will be shown.) The 1991 the right thing by apologizing. But that’s well-known television and theatre actors (Mar- orchestra playing Jonathan Tunick’s beautiful indie feature kickstarted both the new queer just not enough. He’s a role model and tha Plimpton, Stephen Colbert, Kate Finneran, arrangements (under the baton of another long- cinema movement and Haynes’ subsequent film- Morgan now has a responsibility to make Christina Hendricks and Anika Noni Rose, among time Sondheim collaborator, Paul Gemignani). making career, and was at the epicenter of cul- amends for his horribly hurtful and danger- them) with the legendary Patti LuPone stepping At times the eerily perfect voices make one miss tural controversy—all of which I will explore in ous ‘comedy’ routine.” into the role of diva Joanne, who memorably the personality inherent in those of the original depth in next week’s annual pride issue. The statement also cites a comment 30 belts out “Ladies Who Lunch” (made famous cast and, though the actors are pitching hard —The Chicago Cultural Center, 78 E. Wash- Rock lead actress Tina Fey said to TMZ. com: “The violent imagery of Tracy’s rant by the previous generation’s legend, Elaine in their individual vignettes in which Bobby the ington, along with a batch of co-presenters in- was disturbing to me at a time when ho- Stritch). Harris is a superb choice for Bobby— bachelor observes the lives of the five married cluding WTTW-11, has scheduled a Pride Month mophobic hate crimes continue to be a the irresistibly boyish bachelor doted on by his couples, Furth’s sitcomish material is still aw- screening (Saturday, June 18, at 2 p.m. in the life-threatening issue for the GLBT commu- married women friends (“Poor Baby” they sing fully thin and the wait for one of those indelible Claudia Cassidy Theatre) of the documentary Two nity. It also doesn’t line up with the Tracy about their Bobby Bubby) and envied by their Sondheim songs can seem interminable. Spirits. Directed by Lydia Nibley, the film, ac- Morgan I know, who is not a hateful man horndog husbands (who offer dating advice via What’s most fascinating about yet another cording to press materials, “explores the life and and is generally much too sleepy and self- the song “Have I Got A Girl for You”)—and he production of this much-beloved, rather icy death of Fred Martinez and the ancient Native centered to ever hurt another person. ” brings not only his affable charm and made-to- musical—aside from the joy of it finally being American two-spirit tradition” which accepts Truth Wins Out Executive Wayne Besen order singing voice but also the certain bitter- shown in a movie theatre—is, as previously persons with integrated genders. The screening was fine with Morgan’s apology but wanted sweet, reflective qualities the material needs. mentioned, taking pleasure in watching another will be followed by a panel discussion moderated to know more: “We at Truth Wins Out ap- Company is considered a landmark musical, gay actor successfully essaying a straight role by Kirsten Cox, a communications professional and for good reason: It’s the first of the truly preciate Tracy’s apology. We are glad that that has, in its 40-year history, generally eluded and former drag performer. Panelists include Ko- he recognizes that he hurt and offended “modern” musicals that eschewed romantic, the gifts of the heterosexual actors who have kumo Kinetic, a transgender spoken-word artist light-hearted, feel-good musical-comedy pro- people. However, questions, sadly, remain. attempted the part. This oddly fascinating co- and filmmaker; Kate Sosin of GenderQueer Chi- “Where do Tracy Morgan’s anti-gay senti- genitors and replaced them with a much more nundrum might have something to do with the cago; Avi Rudnick, of the Transformative Justice realistic and often-cynical approach. Company ments come from? ... Does he understand fact that, as New York magazine columnist Adam Law Project of Illinois; and Dr. Dorene Wiese, why people—LGBT or not, in Tennessee and set the bar and went further by refusing to teth- Feldman has said, Bobby’s “straightness seems a president of the Illinois American Indian Asso- er Sondheim’s amazing songs to an integrated beyond—were so hurt by what he said?” ciation. The event is free and open to the pub- GLAAD issued a press release June 13 lic. http://www.pbs.org/independentlens/two- stating that it had met with Morgan. The spirits/ release said that “During a call with GLAAD A brave and deeply personal —Thirty-three years ago Alex, a young Peace President Jarrett Barrios and members of Corps volunteer in Tehran, was separated from GLAAD’s staff today, Morgan committed to memoir of one man's quest to his Iranian lover, Ali, just as the stage was being meet this week in New York City with LGBT rise above the political and religious set for the Iran revolution. In the ensuing years youth from the Ali Forney Center who have rhetoric that divides and destroys the men have been in contact but have not seen been hurt or left homeless by parental the human spirit. each other since the fateful day of their part- rejection as well as family members who ing. Now, local filmmaker Malachi Leopold, Al- have lost children to anti-gay violence.” ex’s nephew, has begun a Kickstarter campaign Morgan also will participate in GLAAD’s up- Aaron Anson engagingly portrays to help fund a documentary (and potentially a coming “Amplify Your Voice” PSA campaign universal love and acceptance—and feature film down the road) titledI am the Wa- to combat anti-LGBT bullying. its impact on spirituality, sexuality, ter, You are the Sea that will explore both the Morgan stated to GLAAD: “I know how and morality. couple’s reunion (scheduled for this fall), their bad bullying can hurt. I was bullied when I love affair which began in 1967 and the issues was a kid. I’m sorry for what I said. I didn’t that forced their separation in the first place— mean it. I never want to use my comedy issues that continue to plague thousands of gay to hurt anyone. My family knew what it AaronAnson.com couples worldwide. You can find out more about was like to feel different. My brother was the project and help Leopold realize his dream disabled, and I lost my father to AIDS in Available at bookstores and online. by contributing to the campaign (which is ongo- 1987.” ing until July 1 in honor of gay pride) at http:// WINDY CITY TIMES June 15, 2011 33 TELEVISION WCT: Whose idea was it that your situation could be made for television? PMJ: Fran and I went to Paris on vacation Peter Marc Jacobson: Gay when we were divorced. It still felt like we were husband and wife, and we discussed the idea. producer works with ex Fran had a meeting with TV Land and they asked Fran what kind of show she would like to do if she were to return to television. She said she Fran Drescher on new show wanted to do a show about her relationship with by constance ruholl WCT: What was the first show you pro- her ex-husband. She said that she wanted to duced? do the show with me and they bought the idea Peter Marc Jacobson is currently working as an PMJ: The first show I created was a spin-off for at the meeting. We wrote the script and they executive producer for the TV Land show Hap- Who’s the Boss. The show wasn’t picked up so I bought ten episodes. pily Divorced, starring Fran Drescher. The show went back to acting. I also wrote a show called WCT: I understand that Fran is playing her is based on Jacobson and Drescher’s real-life re- CCPD that was sold to Fox but they decided not character counterpart in the show. Why did lationship, including their marriage, divorce and to produce it. CCPD was a sitcom similar to that you opt to choose another actor to portray the life together that ensued afterwards. It is of Reno 911! Around that same time I sold The your character counterpart? How do you feel a witty family comedy that is sure to please a Nanny to CBS. about him playing you on the show? variety of audience members. WCT: Besides your current projects, what PMJ: Well, A: I’m writing; there isn’t enough Windy City Times: Hello, Peter. During my production or show did you enjoy working on time during the day, and B: we discussed it for the most? a while but John Michael Higgins came in and research for this interview I found that you Peter Marc Jacobson. Photo courtesy of TV PMJ: When you’re lucky enough to have a show I would be stupid to pass him up. He is so tal- have produced and written several shows but Land you have also done some acting of your own. like The Nanny that becomes a hit in the ‘90s on ented and he makes me look good. We found him on the last day of casting. He’s so good that I’m Were there any specific actors or shows that CBS and you have a great actress like Fran work- note, I’m sure you have answered this ques- thrilled to have him on the show. He and Fran inspired you to begin an acting career? ing for you, it really feels like a gift. How lucky tion hundreds of times but did Fran, your have amazing chemistry. It seems like they are Peter Marc Jacobson: You know, when I was am I to be able to do what I love and write for wife, really laugh like that or was it a charac- married and you just can’t fake that. a kid I was fascinated by sitcoms. I was a big amazing actors. I can’t believe it was me that ter choice for her? fan of I Love Lucy and it all started from there. actually got to do it. It’s very strange to think of PMJ: Nope. [Laughs] That’s the way she laughs WCT: Happily Divorced premieres June 15. I moved to Los Angeles and started doing com- but wonderful at the same time. and that’s the way she speaks. When I met her What kind of audience are you hoping to mercials, modeling and sitcoms. It was a great WCT: The Nanny was co-created by both you in high school she stuck out to me. She has reach with the show? ground to learn. and your then-wife, Fran Drescher. Was it dif- such a unique persona. When I met her parents PMJ: People who like to laugh. It’s not of- WCT: After acting for so many years, what ficult to work with your wife in a professional they had no idea she had a funny voice. She has fensive; it’s a funny adult family sitcom with made you switch to producing and being be- setting? taken some classes to give her more variety for a twist. Some of the jokes on the show have hind the camera? PMJ: We worked well together. Of course, we acting though. double entendre so both adults and children will be able to enjoy it. I think they will enjoy a lot PMJ: You know, I drove myself nuts as an would yell and scream when we disagreed but WCT: Has the producing dynamic changed of it. If you’ve ever loved someone a lot but it actor. I would always question myself and my we knew that the show had to be nurtured and since the divorce, seeing as you were married just didn’t work out this show will speak to you. abilities. It felt like I was doing it just to prove we weren’t going to mess it up. It was our baby. for the production of The Nanny? to myself that I could do it even though I wasn’t She is brilliantly funny and it was a gift to work PMJ: Now the show is based lightly on our re- Many people will like it for different reasons. I having fun at it. When I was acting Fran used with her. The hardest part was that during the lationship but I think we work better now than hope that people give it a chance and tune in. to say you should quit acting and go behind the show our life together was breaking up. we did then. It has definitely changed. When I The TV Land show Happily Divorced, star- scenes. With directing and producing you have WCT: It says a lot about your relationship wasn’t dealing with who I was I would get angry ring Fran Drescher and John Michael Higgins, more control. I was at peace when I started pro- that you are still able to continue working and work could be frustrating. It’s a much easier Wed., June 15, at 9:30 p.m. CT. ducing shows like The Nanny. together even after the divorce. On a lighter ride this time. “FUNNY, TOUCHING AND ALTOGETHER EXTRAORDINARY!” PETER TRAVERS, ROLLING STONE EWAN McGREGOR CHRISTOPHER PLUMMER MÉLANIE LAURENT
WRITTEN AND DIRECTED BY MIKE MILLS
NOW PLAYING IN SELECT THEATRES THIS IS WHAT LOVE FEELS LIKE.
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RIVENDELL WINDY CITY TIMES Wed 6/15 10.25” x 6.625” DUE 6/8 34 June 15, 2011 WINDY CITY TIMES That’s the difference between us and other mi- two mintues long telling a story in support nority groups: Some of us are not immediately of LGBT equality by no later than 11:59 Dustin Lance Black identifiable. p.m. PT on Wed., June 15; see http://www. We have to continue to tell our stories, and couragecampaign.org/page/s/dustin-lance- they don’t have to be depressing. It can be black-testimony-challenge. At the end of this on his new project, about how joyous it was to have your first kid search, Black’s film crew will choose three; or to be married or your first kiss or how sur- fly to three separate locations to film these prisingly wonderful it was to come out to your stories; and share them with the country in a parents. television ad campaign. gay pride and more Record and upload a video no more than by ANDREW DAVIS ART day, June 25, in the Liz Long Gallery. Long said that few LGBT people know about Oscar-winning screenwriter Dustin Lance Black Community art UAR, but the organization has worked over (Milk) has a new project. The Courage Campaign space features the past two decades to appeal to queer peo- has launched a nationwide video challenge with ple. Black called “Testimony: Take a Stand,” in which LGBT locals for “This is a very friendly place for lesbian and they look for stories from everyday Americans gay people to come,” Long said. regarding LGBT equality. pride The phone rings incessantly at UAR. Mostly, BY KATE SOSIN Windy City Times: I know this is two years it is telemarketers, Long said. However, every late, but congratulations on the Oscar win. I now and then someone calls needing advice On a bright, tree-lined lot in North Lawn- have to ask: Where do you keep your award? on coming out as LGBT. A lesbian herself, dale, a house decorated with LGBT- themed Dustin Lance Black: Oh, thanks man—that Long spends hours on the phone on those art sits waiting for the Pride crowds to come days. seems like a lifetime ago. I actually gave the through. People with HIV also come to UAR for sup- Oscar to my mom; she has it in Virginia. No one is coming. It’s 3:30 p.m. on a Sun- port. One day when Long was working outside WCT: Now on to the Courage Campaign. day, and a discussion about how the gay in the garden, a young man came up to the Could you talk about the “Testimony” proj- community can support transgender people fence and asked her for help. He just found ect? It was launched on Harvey Milk Day [May should have started a half hour ago. The talk out he had HIV, he said. He didn’t know where 22]. was slotted as part of a monthlong gay and to go. UAR volunteers took him to get ser- DLB: Sure. I’m involved with the American lesbian exhibit at Urban Art Retreat (UAR), vices at a local YMCA. Foundation for Equal Rights, or AFER; we’re the but few artists even registered for the show Long said that UAR is a unique space for ones involved with the federal case against and even fewer LGBT people came to see it. queer people. For one, its events and activi- Proposition 8 in California, and it’s looking in- Dianna C. Long, who oversees the daily op- ties are free. They’re also a queer-friendly al- credibly likely that it’s going to end up in the erations at UAR, 1957 S. Spaulding, barely ternative to the club scene. Long sometimes U.S. Supreme Court. I look at that and I look at notices when no one shows up for the discus- hosts gay gardening groups in the summer, the time between now and then ... and I realized Dustin Lance Black. Facebook photo reprinted sion. and regular events tend to be alcohol-free, that we need to make it clear that America is with permission “Every year that we’ve been in Chicago, making the house a safe place for recovering trending towards equality. we’ve done something for Pride,” she said. alcoholics. Milk Day. If you had five minutes with Harvey, There was a little bit of brainstorming about Every year, few come to see the exhibit. How- The next step Long said is figuring out how what would you ask him or say to him? the most effective way to change minds and, ever, Long and her team have continued to to support Chicago’s transgender community. DLB: Oh, boy. If I only had five minutes, I with a little bit of research, it seemed that hav- curate the show. “I’m a big believer in saving yourself, but would ask him what his next steps were going to ing gays or lesbians who feel unequal to actually UAR, a kind of artist’s oasis among the ar- let’s give some help,” Long said. “So many be. meet other gays and lesbians, so that they can ea’s grassy lots, draws people from all walks trans people are not even in a position to do I think the man had such strength and such a dispel the myths about gay and lesbian people. into its tangled gardens and paint-splattered anything [to improve their situations].” strong conviction that we are equal. He, unlike So we thought, “Hey, why don’t we start to col- walls. It attracts neighborhood youth, the Long has wondered over the years why, lect stories from across the nation—especially so many leaders today, was able to shed that elderly, people with disabilities, people with when UAR, attracts such a diversity of com- stories about diversity?” This diversity is not self-loathing many of us grew up with. He was HIV, people with mental illnesses and people munities, it tends not to see as many LGBT racial, but it’s religious, it’s geographic, it’s unapologetic about who he was and how God without money. The second floor of the two- visitors. “We put together an art show, and about what kind of job you hold, what your fam- made him. I think that’s why he was able to story residence houses female artists, some usually it’s pretty easy to get people to re- ily looks like. We want to demonstrate that the make incredible progress so quickly. He made who barter for a place to stay and many who spond” she said. Not so with the LGBT com- [gay community] is everywhere, that we’re rep- bold moves in the face of people saying, “Don’t come from abroad. munity. resented in every community and that we can go there. It’s not time yet.” So I’m very curious In keeping with its mission to both culti- Part of that problem could be location. For defy preconceived notions about who and what about what he would’ve done next. vate and showcase the talents of under-rep- people who live and play in Lake View, UAR we are. I know he wanted to march on Washington, resented communities, UAR has hosted shows is more than an hour commute by CTA. Also, Some of the ones we’ve received already have D.C. In his last few weeks, he talked about tak- themed around trauma survivors, housewives some people think North Lawndale is unsafe, been very surprising. There are stories from reli- ing the fight [for gay rights] to [then-President] and feminism, artists with disabilities, out- although Long rejects that thought as stereo- gious communities, about people who are trying Jimmy Carter. That propelled me to say, “Hey, sider artists, people of color, and children art- type. UAR has collaborated successfully with to reconcile their belief in God with their sexual- let’s take this fight to the federal government.” ists. The organization holds classes and work- some LGBT organizations in the past, includ- ity. However, this movment has a bunch of white However, I can only infer that, so it’d be great shops for emerging artists as well as people ing Affinity Community Services. guys running it—and we do need to hear from to hear what his actual strategy would’ve been. who do not identify as artists at all. Long said that lack of involvement may other racial communities. We certainly have to [Milk’s death] was such a great loss. We haven’t The June Gay and Lesbian show exhibits mean a discontinuation of its gay and lesbian reach out to Black and Latino communities and seen the likes of him since. both local and international artists. This show next year because it attracts less atten- change minds. WCT: As you know, June is Pride Month. year’s exhibit features nine artists, most of tion than other shows. Regardless, Long said Over the summer, we’ll share some of these What are you proud about concerning the them little-known. They are Brian Skinner, UAR will remain a queer-friendly space. stories on the Courage Campaign’s website and LGBT community? Kathleen Elizabeth, Sandra Taylor, Simone The Pride show will be open through June on the radio. Say we get a moving video from DLB: I think we have a lot to be proud of right Bouyer, Kate Bronwyn, and Chicago-based 25 between 11-4 p.m. each Saturday and artists Kenya Molette, Cindy Hall, Dianna C. Bedford, Texas; I’d like to show that video back now, in terms of our progress in the gay move- by appointment. For more information, call Long, and P. Anthony, who died of HIV a few in that area of Texas so that people there know ment. Finally overturning “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” 773-542-9126. years ago. The show will run through Satur- that there are others in the community who are is something to be incredibly proud of. Winning suffering from inequality. this case in California in federal court and being In the end, we’ll select three stories and I’ll go that much closer to an eventual federal decision to those hometowns to shoot those as public- that would give marriage to all Americans in all service announcements. The idea is to take this 50 states—that’s something to be incredibly video project to some of the groups in some of proud of. Attached to that is the progress we’ve Show at those areas. made in everyday Americans’ opinions of equal- the Liz Long WCT: Are you more inclined to go with ity for gay and lesbian people. Gallery at smaller towns, where some think more out- Sometimes I have to step back and say, “Boy, the Urban Art reach is needed? we’ve come a long way in a short amount of Retreat. DLB: The final three is determined by budget, time.” It seems that this new energy in the Photo by but I also think that those three need to be movement started at about 2008, and so many Kate Sosin incredibly diverse. So, I doubt that all three things have happened in that time and so many will be from a big city. There’ll probably be one gay and lesbian groups have contributed. that represents a more metropolitan area, but That said, it’s not time to let up. Civil rights is these small towns need help. I hope, in the end, this [constant] game of winning and losing; it’s that the stories are incredibly surprising; I think this pendulum. We need to make sure we protect that’s what’s going to be incredibly illuminat- our gains as we move forward. I do think, to ing. bring it full circle, that we do that by continuing WCT: The campaign kicked off on Harvey to be out and to introduce ourselves to others. WINDY CITY TIMES June 15, 2011 35 Introducing QponChicago!
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Continuing a long tradition held by Mayor Rich- Emanuel hosts first ard M. Daley, Mayor Rahm Emanuel hosted his first LGBT Pride Month Reception at the Chicago Cultural Center June 9. Though Daley originally Pride reception started the event to make up for not marching in the city’s annual Pride Parade (he refused to work on Sundays), Emanuel announced to loud applause that he would march in this year’s pa- rade, slated for June 26. As a congressman, Emanuel often walked in the Pride parade alongside his wife and three children. Laughing, he shared a story about his then-3-year-old daughter’s reaction to her first Pride parade: “The dads like to dance!” Daley marched just once during his 22 years as may- or. Spirits were high in the Cultural Center, as guests mingled, networked and enjoyed com- plimentary Garrett Popcorn, wine provided by Barefoot Wines, and buffet-style food from Star of Siam. An estimated 1,000 people attended the free event, which was sponsored by Equality Illinois and State Farm insurance. Mona Noriega, recently confirmed by the City Council as Emanuel’s choice to head the Commis- sion on Human Relations, addressed the packed room, surrounded by politicians, appointed of- ficials, members of the Advisory Council on LGBT Issues, and many more. The commissioner ap- plauded Illinois’ decision to allow civil unions and said she hoped to work with Emanuel for similar advances. She and her partner Evette Cardona were among those having a civil union June 2 at Millennium Park. Emanuel said LGBT Chicagoans shouldn’t just consider themselves part of a community: “You are family.” Barely audible over waves of ap- plause, he stressed that with positions ranging from schoolteacher to doctor to police officer, LGBT citizens are an integral part of the city. “When you come from a Jewish home, family’s family, man,” he said. The mayor honored Proud to Run, an annual 10K and 5K charity run that celebrated its 30th anniversary this year. The event, now hosted by Frontrunners/Frontwalkers of Chicago, started with just 40 runners and has grown to include more than 1,200 people. In 30 years, it has raised more than $300,000 for local charities. Photos by Kat Fitzgerald (MysticImagesPho- tography.com); more online at http://www. WindyCityMediaGroup.com WINDY CITY TIMES June 15, 2011 37 LEATHERMAN The Legend of Chuck Renslow LEATHERMAN The Legend of Chuck Renslow
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GO BEHIND THE SCENES SCAN THE TAG QR Tag by EventCode.info 38 June 15, 2011 WINDY CITY TIMES BOOK REVIEW her sexuality more than to write. She checks out revulsion, and (for this reader) empathy. She the ads in The Reader’s X-Matches and—well, also elicits a smile here and there when a turn A Single Year adventure ensues. One good thing, Mueller does of phrase brings out the humor with which she by Dawn Mueller faithfully journal everyday, providing her copi- infuses some of her encounters. $15.99; DM Publishing; ous notes for this book. Caution: Mueller portrays herself as an outsid- 262 pages Mueller is a rule breaker. As she prepares to er. This means she’s tough on the Chicago les- REVIEW BY SALLY PARSONS meet her hookup couple for the first time, she bian community at times. Humorously: “If you wonders if the adventure is more about breaking wrong the wrong person or someone finds out Why do we read memoirs? To get the inside dish rules than sex—her mom’s rules, those of AA, you’ve lied about your love for folk music, you’re from a well-known personality (Steven Tyler’s society, and her own. Mueller has keen insights out.” Resentfully: “The lesbian community here newest, Judi Dench’s, for example). Or to ex- about herself, not that she necessarily changes is very insular and closed. If you don’t fit a cer- plore a landscape foreign to us, such as an in- any self-proclaimed troubling behavior immedi- tain number of requirements, you don’t fit in. sider’s view of the food industry (Medium Raw ately. Period.” by Bourdain), or growing up in a nonconformist She gains confidence in herself through the Even though this type of comment may raise family of nomads (The Glass Castle by Walls). triad she creates with Neal and Mimi and that’s hackles among some readers, there’s still plenty To our surprise, we often learn something about part of why she continues the association. She of reason to read the book—a nostalgic romp ourselves as well. This is especially true when keeps going back “… at least until I can find through events and venues (some no longer with the author is describing his or her emotional and another source to tap, or (heaven forbid) find a us), sexual titillation, and following someone’s psychological terrain. way to tap into myself.” By the end of our ride struggle for identity. Most will still cheer her Dawn Mueller delivers, in A Single Year, on two with her, she’s begun to do just that. on because her journey is universal and we can of the above hooks. She’s not a celebrity, but her Mueller is an excellent writer. She describes learn from her experiences and insights. She is struggle to understand her own sexual and inti- her adventures in great detail and the reader honest about herself and one has to admire her macy needs makes a fascinating read. At times, witnesses the pain, rawness, loneliness and in- spunk. it is touching, as when she reveals that, with the context. timacy of her escapades with parts fascination, each new woman she meets, if she can get that There’s Corbin, her confidante, who steadies person to like her, maybe Mueller will begin to her as she traverses her sexual/emotional ter- BOOK REVIEW like herself again. rain; Vann, with whom the sexual spark burns There’s plenty of self-revelation for the reader long and easy; Neal and Mimi, the couple with Transition to identify with—the need for someone to care whom she forges an unbalanced sexual three- by Chaz Bono (with about and love you, the need to love oneself, some; Jamie, the patient pursuer; and the ever- Billie Fitzpatrick) the need to “ … find balance between running faithful Mousse, her chocolate lab retriever. around like crazy and sitting comfortably in my $25.95; Dutton; 245 pages A Single Year recounts Mueller’s sexual odyssey REVIEW BY TERRI Schlichenmeyer own skin.” the year following the breakup of a nine-year re- Mueller is someone many Windy City Times lationship. Given that she’s an alcoholic (in re- The face in the mirror is yours. readers may have brushed shoulders with or covery since July 1995), this peek into her year Yes, you recognize that chin, the eyes that actually know. She is a Chicagoan (North Side) is fraught with glimpses of awkward moments droop when fatigued, the mouth that’s etched and the year’s journey she recounts (circa 2005) and avoidance of meetings with her AA mentor parentheses around itself, as if to enclose takes place on the local scene, a bonus for the that depict the delicate balance recovering alco- something you said. reader. In these pages, you will find her at Early holics struggle to maintain. That’s your hair. Those are your ears. That’s to Bed and Cupid’s Treasure, a Capricorn party, Mueller tries to spark her dormant passion to your nose. at Circuit, Sidetrack, T’s, and a Mountain Moving write by following the exercises in Julia Camer- It’s you there in the mirror—the outside concert, among other popular venues. While Mu- on’s The Artist’s Way. Alas, as she attests, the af- you—but inside, well, what you see isn’t eller has changed the names of the people she firmations Cameron urges her readers to practice what you know. In the new book Transition encounters, you may still recognize some from seem to stimulate in Mueller a desire to explore by Chaz Bono (with Billie Fitzpatrick), you’ll ity colored his relationships with them and read what it’s like to feel like you’re in the with his family. Still, he lived his life as a woman: falling in love, starting a band, buy- WINDY CITY ing a house, and trying to stay out of the TIMES 12th Annual public eye. Bono’s father seemed supportive of his les- bianism. His mother had trouble with it. THIRTY However, happiness eluded Bono and he turned to drugs to cope with the frustration. under 30 By then, though, he thought he knew what he needed to do… On March 20, 2009, he says, “I drove myself to the doctor’s office… I felt only confident that what I was doing was right.” “After all the years of fear, ambivalence, doubts, and emotional torture, the day had finally come. I was on testosterone, and I have never looked back—not once.” Bono says at one point that he was never very good at transitions. He did a pretty good job at this one, with a few minor bumps. Wednesday Chaz Bono. Photo from Brenna McEowen Transition is filled with angst, anger, sad- ness and pain, topped with wonderment June 22 and joy. It’s also repetitious, contains a few 5:30-7:30 p.m. wrong body, and how a tiny Hollywood dar- delicately squirmy moments, and its occa- ling became a man. sional bogginess is a challenge for wandering Honoring On the wall of his home, Chaz Bono has minds. 30 LGBTA activists, a picture of himself and his parents, taken For wondering minds, though, Bono is quick when he was a toddler. They all look happy, to defend and explain away his family’s reluc- journalists, students, Bono says, but he doesn’t remember that day, tance to accept his gender reassignment, but HIV/AIDS volunteers or much of his childhood. he’s also willing to admit to being hurt by it. and performers What he does remember, though, is that he Still, contentment and awe shine forth at the each under the always felt like a boy, even though he was the end of this book, and readers will breathe a age of 30 daughter of Sonny and Cher. sigh of relief for it. Center Bono says that, as a child, he dressed in If you can face the slowness that crops up FOR MORE INFO CONTACT: On boy clothes as much as possible and answered in Transition now and then, you’ll find it to Andrew Davis at Halsted to a boy’s nickname. He played with boys at be a pretty good memoir. For you, it’s a book [email protected] school and his best friend was a boy. Nobody to put your hands on. 3656 N. Halsted thought much about it, he says. That’s just Want more from Bono? Then look for his the way it was. other books: Family Outing: A Guide to the Puberty was rough and Bono came out as Coming-Out Process for Gays, Lesbians, & WINDY CITY TIMES’ THIRTY UNDER 30 IS CO-SPONSORED BY a lesbian, but something still wasn’t quite Their Families (with Billie Fitzpatrick) and right. He didn’t identify with women, gay or The End of Innocence: A Memoir (with Mi- otherwise, and distant feelings of masculin- chele Kort). WINDY CITY TIMES June 15, 2011 39 NUNN ON ONE: TV WCT: What is the biggest misconception about you and your family? Cathy Richardson PH: I think just because of the Hilton last Paris Hilton talks name people assume that I’m a spoiled brat who in area June 17 doesn’t have to work or do anything for herself Cathy Richardson, lead singer from Jef- but, really, it’s the opposite. I’ve been working ferson Starship, will perform at the Metrop- about her ‘World’ since I was 17 and I’ve created a huge empire olis Ballroom, 6 S. Vail, Arlington Heights, now. I have 17 different product lines and I’m Richardson, an out lesbian, is a Grammy by JERRY NUNN working every single day, traveling the world. So nominee and four-time DIY Music Award- I think people, just because I was a party girl winning singer. She will perform with her Paris Hilton is the Hollywood socialite who al- before when I started out, they assume that’s latest project, the Macrodots. There will be ways winds up on the press. Her exploits have how I really am still. But when I’m at parties a dinner show (with Richardson performing made her famous in the tabloids and on TV. Her now it’s for work. I’m either being paid to be acoustically) at 7:30 p.m.; Cathy and the appearances on The Simple Life with Nicole there or I’m promoting a product or a different Macrodots will perform around 10:30 p.m. Richie and another show where she searched for project I’m working on. I think that is one of the In between, a local youth band will per- a BFF left many viewers entertained and curious biggest misconceptions. form at 9 p.m. to know more—although it also left her a light- WCT: Are there any plans of you settling Concert tickets are $25 in advance and ning rod for controversy among those who won- down and having children? $35 at the door. Visit http://www.brown- dered what constitutes a “celebrity” nowadays. PH: I would love to one day. Right now I’m papertickets.com/profile/51573. The World According to Paris is her new en- just so busy with work and traveling but one day deavor—full of paparazzi, pets and popularity. I would love that. Windy City Times: Hi, Paris. Tell our readers WCT: What upcoming projects are you work- Rihanna’s tour about your new show and why you came back ing on? to include to reality television. PH: Finishing the album. I’m writing another Paris Hilton: The World According to Paris is book. I have my newest clothing line coming J. Cole, Cee-Lo a look at everything I go through from the mo- out and sunglasses. I’m working on my new skin care line that should be out soon and makeup. Green ment I wake up until I go to bed at night, every Entertainer and pop-music superstar And what else? I’m also doing some different single day. And I really wanted to do a show Rihanna confirms critically acclaimed lyri- projects overseas, opening my own beach clubs to show who I really am because I feel like on cist and fellow Roc Nation artist J. Cole and and next I’m going to be opening my own ho- the Simple Life and My BFF show I was playing singer/The Voicejudge Cee Lo Green will tels. a character and something I was doing for fun, join her on the LOUD North American tour. WCT: With all that work what do you do to but this is something that I’m really excited for The North American leg of the tour be- relax? all my fans to see. gins June 4 in Baltimore, with 28 dates PH: I love to get massages. It’s like when I WCT: Is it therapeutic for you to make a confirmed and more to be announced soon. relax. I try to do that at least once a week. And show like this? Locally, the show will take place Wed., June also I just love being in my backyard with all PH: Well, I think I just learn that in everyday 15, at the United Center, 1901 W. Madi- my pets and just playing with my puppies and life. It was a good chance for me just to show son. (Green is not slated to appear at this Paris Hilton. Photo courtesy of Oxygen all my animals and that really relaxes me. I just who I am and that I’m a human and I go through show.) love being around animals, just make me really the same things that everyone does. So I think Tickets for the Live Nation produced tour happy. when people watch it they maybe won’t see me time so I love his show. But the Dancing show I are available at http://www.Ticketmaster. The World According to Paris is on the Oxy- as such a cartoon character any more. They’ll see wouldn’t ever do. com and http://www.LiveNation.com. gen network, airing on Wednesdays. Paris’ me as a real person. WCT: On the first episode of the new series beauty secrets and more are at http://www. WCT: Is it hard to open yourself up to cam- the paparazzi are chasing you everywhere. oxygen.com. eras this way? How do you deal with that every day? PH: I never thought I would cry on TV. I think PH: It’s just something I’ve learned to get
I just always wanted everything to be perfect used to. It’s been going on for so long. It’s just and that’s not how life is. In life, people go a regular part of my life. I just try not to pay through things and people get upset and things attention because they’re going to be there. And MACLAINE from page 23 wife with your own sperm, wow! That’s an happen. And I wanted the fans to see everything rather than making myself go crazy and being Austrian. [Both laugh.] as real as possible and what’s really going on. annoyed about it I just say that it’s normal and switch that. In some ways that is quite coura- WCT: You came in for Oprah Winfrey but So even though it’s embarrassing for people to I’m used to it. geous. when are you coming back to Chicago? watch me cry it’s what really happens. I think the only hard part is when there’s so WCT: Speaking of that, I just met Chaz a SM: Oh, I don’t know. We will see what WCT: Do you regret doing the Simple Life? many of them, sometimes there could be, like, week ago. happens. When there is something there for PH: The reason I did it was that it was the 30 or 40 of them and they’re all chasing me in SM: I am very interested by what he is do- me to do. I am having a good time doing my beginning of reality television and I don’t think their cars and they’re all trying to get through ing. I think his interviews are very insight- show around the country. there was any other reality shows on TV at this the red light and make sure they don’t lose me. ful. What did you think when you talked with WCT: Tell our readers a little about your point. So I had never been on camera before. I So it gets a little dangerous when everybody’s him? show. had never done a reality show. I was really new trying to get behind me and it gets a little scary WCT: I don’t think Chaz is super-com- SM: It is really good and the audience loves to it. And the producers told Nicole just to be a being in a car with them around. fortable with interviews sometimes, so it it. I tell old stories about old Hollywood. I troublemaker and have fun and kind of play that WCT: What was it like having your mother is very brave to put himself out there like find myself recalling things up on the stage character. on this show? that. that I hadn’t voiced or talked about. What And then they wanted me to play something PH: Oh, I was so excited to have my mom as SM: He didn’t too uncomfortable with some the hell? I just tell them what happened and like Clueless meets Green Acres, like, the dumb part of the show. She’s such a character. It’s so that I saw so I was quite impressed. what it really was like. I am having a good time with it. I miss the live audience. blonde character. I didn’t realize this show would funny and always makes me laugh. So I just had WCT: You have a variety of fans, including WCT: People can follow the tour on your go on for so many seasons. So I had to continue to have her on the show. Plus, it’s my whole life many gay fans. website, right? doing that character every season. Also, I think and my mom and I are really close and she’s a SM: What is the difference? People are peo- SM: Oh, sure. I was very shy and it was kind of easier to hide big part of my life. So of course, she’s going to ple. I think they like my directness, everybody WCT: It has been 10 years for Life is a behind that character. be there with me on it. does, including old ladies! Bowl of Cherries. Now when I think about it, it was so long ago WCT: What did you do for Mother’s Day? WCT: [Laughs] That is refreshing to hear. SM: [Laughs] Is it 10? I don’t know. and the show was such a huge success and really PH: For Mother’s day, we all went to the house SM: When you get to be my age it is stupid WCT: It was the tenth anniversary recent- it was entertaining so I don’t regret it because and then the whole family went to Boa for din- not to be direct or say exactly how you feel, ly. I think people really enjoyed that character. But ner and just spent time with my mom. honestly. SM: Oh, yeah; that’s nice. now I’m an adult and I’m ready to show who I WCT: How do you feel about Perez Hilton WCT: Amen. So what are you currently really am, I’ve been through a lot in life. I’m not over today? WCT: It has been such a pleasure talking using your name? to you while I am down in Mexico. afraid to show who I am and to be honest. PH: I am flattered. SM: Well, today I went for a long hike with Terry, climbing up a mountain and I didn’t SM: Well, you be careful down there all WCT: Would you ever do other reality shows WCT: Are you planning on releasing any like it at all. So I am over trying to be thin. I right? I worry about anyone that goes to Mex- like Dancing with the Stars or Celebrity Ap- more music? am going to take it easy for a bit. ico now. I am not kidding. I hope it’s worth prentice? PH: Yes, I have a recording studio at my house WCT: Are you over Arnold Schwarzeneg- it. PH: Yes, I’ve been approached every season so any time I have free time I’m always in the ger? WCT: You are more worried about me than by both of those shows but I would never do studio writing and working. So I’ve been work- SM: Man, is that some story! Talk about my own mother. I am trying to encourage them. ing on this album a really long time because I theatrical, whoa! I can’t even imagine what people to come down here. WCT: Why not? want it to be perfect and I recently changed the PH: I wouldn’t; I like doing my own show. he was thinking. Okay, stepping out of the SM: Wow, you have some job ahead of you. direction of the album. I wouldn’t want to be with a bunch of other marriage but good lord in their own house! To find out why MacLaine’s over travel, It was more pop before but now I’m getting rid politics and money pick up her latest book people on a show who I don’t know. Some of the To be having babies at the same time, that of a lot of songs and I’m going into a different and learn more about her at http://www. people on those shows I really wouldn’t want to is the epitome of male power isn’t it? To say direction, just house music so it’s going to be that your housekeeper is pregnant and your shirleymaclaine.com. be associated with. But, I love Donald Trump. a lot more dance and club but it should be out He’s been a great family friend of mine for a long really soon. 40 June 15, 2011 WINDY CITY TIMES NUNN ON ONE: COMEDY digest it, I am with a woman and we kiss each other. It is a luxury that I have been afforded by the work that so many people have done before Cameron Esposito me. For me it is about going in to wherever and normalizing my sexuality. WCT: I couldn’t believe my friend last night plays it for ‘Laughs’ didn’t know Lily was a lesbian. I said, “I think BY JERRY NUNN CE: No, I don’t. I am just doing this. so. It’s a hunch of mine, along with Rosie and WCT: Good for you. Sandra.” Cameron Esposito is more than just a local CE: Thank you. I am so happy to share it with CE: That is crazy! Homegirl is wayyy out, too. one-trick comedian. The out lesbian has three Chicago and be able to do that because I live in I am definitely a gay performer. Kate Clinton performances at the Just For Laughs festival; Logan Square and my rent is really cheap! for instance primarily performs in front of gay teaches The Feminine Comique, the world’s only WCT: How did you get involved with the Just crowds. When she was coming up what other all female stand-up course; and is the producer For Laughs? Because it is a big deal… option did she have? I don’t think it would be of Lincoln Lodge, Chicago’s longest-running alt- CE: I have done it for the past two years with easy for her to go to Zanies and announce “Now comedy showcase. Grab Them Aghast, her debut smaller gigs but Steve Heisler who does the pro- for your lesbian entertainment of the night!” I stand-up album, was released last year. She re- gramming for the Chicago festival used to write think it is really cool that I can do that. It is im- cently appeared in the Bridgetown Comedy Fes- for Timeout Chicago and somebody I had known portant that people meet me and are not scared tival in Oregon. We talked pirates, priests and for years. He had seen me when I was really ter- that I will take away their children. presidents in a Nunn on One interview. rible at stand-up and somehow decided to keep WCT: What do you have going on after the Windy City Times: Hi, Cameron. Where is seeing me. He really is sponsoring this part of festival? CE: I am hoping to expand this show’s run at your last name from? the festival and asked me if I wanted to do an Cameron Esposito: It is Italian; just ask my hour and I said yes, thank you very much. The Playground Theatre in August so look for body hair. WCT: And you have three different show- that. Hopefully a Monday night run of the show. People can come every week if they want to. WCT: Are you from the suburbs or the city? times, right? CE: I am from the city. I live in Logan Square. CE: Yes, the one that is a huge deal for me is WCT: Do you have a website? CE: Cameronesposito.com or http://thereal- WCT: The first time I saw your stand-up act the one at The Playground Theatre. It is an hour- cameronesposito.com. was in a little theatre opening for someone I long spot. I have my little face in the Just For interviewed named Elizabeth Keener. You have Laughs pamphlet and everything! WCT: What is the difference? an interesting timing to your comedy. WCT: That is huge. We are talking Ellen De- CE: I had my domain name was stolen for a CE: Yes, that is what people say. It is a slow generes did it one year… while. Somebody was selling muscle mass build- burn… CE: Exactly, it’s like Steve Martin on one page ers and eczema treatment. They had my bio up Cameron Esposito. there. It was really insane: “Cameron Esposito WCT: Where does that come from? and then on another page… who is this? Oh, it’s CE: It is just the conversational nature of the me. The other performance I am hosting some loves Muscle Milk!” musical performers that are in from LA. They are Cameron plays The Playground Theatre, way that my brain works. I really think of stand- will use the word gay onstage or lesbian or queer up as a conversation but a lot people don’t. It great. 3209 N. Halsted, on June 15 and at the Lin- but sometimes I will just reference a girlfriend coln Lodge, 4008 N. Lincoln, on June 17 and in the same way my male straight counterparts 18. For details and tickets visit http://www. will reference a girlfriend. I think there is some- justforlaughschicago.com. thing really rad about being able to have you
BOOK REVIEW although raised with a Christian-influenced ethic, I have not been exposed to, nor am I Mind Your Own Life comfortable with, Christian rhetoric. Thus, I by Aaron Anson struggled with many of Anson’s pronounce- $16.95; Balboa Press; ments. For example, “Our goal now should be 274 pages to—without hesitation—reconnect and sub- REVIEW BY SALLY PARSONS mit once again to the Source we once knew.” Anson has a zest for life and a desire to Aaron Anson has a message and he puts it out share. While his basic message is a powerful there relentlessly in his book Mind Your Own one that no doubt will resonate with many, in Life: Trust your own intelligence to interpret my opinion he has not come up with enough your relationship with God (whom he often different themes/topics to warrant a full refers to as the Source). Do not allow oth- book, settling instead for new ways to say ers (the Church) to decide for you what this the same thing. More detail of his own life relationship should be. As you might surmise, story would have helped. Anson has had a rocky relationship with or- Anson is married and resides with his part- ganized religion. A gay Black man born and ner, Oliver, in Washington, D.C. Anson’s book raised Southern Baptist, he has experienced is being printed by an arm of Hay House, the directly the stifling and hurtful atmosphere hugely successful self-help publishing com- the Church can often engender toward those pany. Cameron Esposito. Photo courtesy of Esposito who don’t fit the mold. Anson is driven to helping others create their own spiritual path. He is a proponent of comes from me setting you up as an audience. I WCT: What motivates you as a comedian to the New Thought movement, for which he is know what you want and I know how to get it. be funny? Were you a class clown? a coach. New Thought, according to sacred- CE: It is such a weird dichotomy because we It is all very methodical. texts.com, espouses that “… a higher power work in bars where other people other people WCT: Do you have comedians that you look pervades all existence, and that individuals play but at the same time we are always work- up to or want to be like? can create their own reality via affirmations, CE: I do. I was able to work with my comedic ing. You have to be a special kind of flower if meditation and prayer.” Anson sees his audi- hero this past winter. I was so jazzed about it. you can turn a bar into a workplace. While ev- ence as both those who have shunned the gay Her name is Maria Bamford. Have you ever seen eryone else is having fun I am seriously in the community as morally or spiritually inferior her? corner writing notes. I think it is people that (he wants them to rethink the origin of their WCT: No. have something very specific to say. They need biased thinking), and secondly, gay teens, CE: I would recommend it because she is like- to say it to everybody and need to say it over who might find inspiring his message to think able and sweet. With that she can be as harsh as and over again. for themselves and realize they are loved. she wants to be. She can be super real and it is I think stand-up comics are not always people Some call Mind Your Own Life a memoir. not off putting so it makes you love her more. I like the class clown in school. I will say this Anson does sprinkle his message with a few really like watching her. about myself, I wore an eye patch for eight stories from his life but in a way that leaves WCT: I am going to look out for her. Did you years of my youth because I had crossed eyes. always want to be a comedian? If you wear an eye patch for eight years this you wanting more detail. Basically, the book CE: No, not at all. I wanted to be the president can be really funny. You have to make the jokes presents his views against the Church, the and a priest. before other people scream “Hey, Pirate.” I said government, and the spiritual life unexam- WCT: [Laughs] So those didn’t work out… I was the pirate before they could… ined. Condensed, it would make a powerful CE: No but I am basically the president of any WCT: How important is it to be out, like lecture on the public speaking circuit. room that I am in. Kate Clinton and Lily Tomlin? I have to admit my bias here. Free thinker WCT: And worshipping your act with the CE: It is very important for me to be out. I am as I am, I can buy into his message of fig- priest. from a generation that it is really cool because uring out your own relationship with what- CE: Well, bringing the message to the people. I can be very subtle about it, which is where we ever you hold to be a higher power. However, WCT: There you go! Do you have a day job? are going anyway in the larger gay movement. I WINDY CITY TIMES June 15, 2011 41 Milwaukee with Mo’Nique, more Pridefest in Milwaukee, Wis., started with rain and fog all day June 10, although there were plenty of rainbows to be found in this an- nual event. With bands and entertainment acts playing on eight stages, along with booth af- ter booth of items to browse, there was plenty to do on this three-day excursion. Dance fans could boogie all day at pavilion designated for clubbers or brush up on their LGBT history in a separate museum. RuPaul’s drag queens from Logo TV provided intros from lip-syncing to comedy before the main event hit the stage. Mo’Nique’s friend, Ivy, performed a rendition of her stand-up act before the Oscar-winning actress/comedian—looking much thinner—strutted out to the screaming crowd. Mo’Nique said that she felt like “Diana Ross in Central Park in the Rain” before launching into a tirade on the Bible versus homosexual- ity. The comedian was clearly pro-LGBT, admiring her gay brothers for tackling anal sex. This was was a show for adults, with references to ex- ploding blowjobs and a mouth that would make a sailor blush. She confessed that one of her young twins has a tendency to wear dresses and mentioned the support her family gives him. She ended the show by performing a wedding ceremony marrying LGBT and drag-queen cou- ples together on the stage; many onlookers had tears. For next year’s festivities keep your eyes on http://www.pridefest.com. Among the many other performers at Pridefest were LeAnn Rimes, Chely Wright, Salt-n-Pepa and gay Israeli singer Ivri Lider. Text and pictures by Jerry Nunn 42 June 15, 2011 WINDY CITY TIMES CLASSIFIEDS REAL ESTATE ADVERTISE HERE DECK CARE FLOOR & WINDOW COVERINGS FOR ALL BUDGETS. ADVERTISE HERE: Want to advertise your product, service, Carpet, Tile, Hardwood, Bamboo, Laminate, Vinyl, and etc. to thousands of readers? 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Share your special moments with the community Andersonville Midsommarfest in Windy City Times’ new announcement section! Summer in Andersonville kicks off with Midsommarfest, providing treats Celebrations for big and small boy and girls. Photos by Kizzy and Jerry Nunn
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Got something to celebrate? Send us information on your Please send an email to [email protected] civil union, anniversary, adoption, marriage or any other joyous moment in life to appear in our new section, Celebrations and let Windy City Times join in your celebration. 44 June 15, 2011 WINDY CITY TIMES
ventures.org Over the Rainbow The First NW Indiana prom for the GLBTQ community is pre- sented by The First Unitarian Church of Hobart’s Welcoming and Hospitality Com- mittee as well as STITCH and Portage High School GSA. 7 p.m., 219-801-8180, Brought to you by the combined efforts of First Unitarian Church of Hobart, Indiana, http://www.sewingdiversitytogether.org/ WINDY CITY JOY-WALKING Saturday, June 18 Monday, June 20 TIMES Civil Unions: Impact on Same-Sex Par- ent Families The Civil Union Act of 2011, The Chicago Gay & which goes into effect this summer, will Lesbian Pride & Joy Wed., June 15 have broad and sweeping effects on the rights of our gay and lesbian community. Reception will take Equality IL at Minibar Ultra Louge and IT’S A HISTORY TO ME Learn what new benefits our same-sex Cafe Celebrate June Pride month with place at Circuit, 3641 N. community, and same sex parents in par- Equality Illinois at Minibar! Come and en- Thursday, June 16 Halsted. ticular, will have under the new law as well joy dinner, drinks, or both and 20% of all Photo of Alexi Giannoulias and Stonewall Uprising will run on as what issues to look out for. 10am, Cen- sales (excluding daily special/before tax) Bill Greaves by Emmanuel WTTW. ter on Halsted, 3656 N. Halsted, http:// will be donated to EQIL to support our im- www.npnparents.org Garcia portant work fighting for LGBT rights in Howard Brown Health Center Brunch Illinois. 5 p.m., Minibar, 3341 N Halsted Guests are invited to enjoy an amazing Interfaith Annual Gala: ‘Down Home brunch spread by Province restaurant,Chef Lake Michigan. $60/ $55 CHM members. Blues’ featuring ‘The Guy King Band Randy Zweiban. Benefiting Howard Brown Includes an open bar. Advance tickets Join Interfaith House for their Annual Gala Health Center; 12 p.m., 3125195896, suggested. 7 p.m., Chicago History Mu- event benefiting homeless individuals in Province Restaurant, 161 N. Jefferson, seum, 1601 N Clark, http://www.chicago- Chicago. Featuring the Guy King Band and http://www.dot429.com history.org Emcee, ChicagoPride.com’s Bill Pritchard; dot429.com event Online and in-person 6 p.m., 773-533-5013, ext. 254, Buddy networking group for LGBTA profession- Monday, June 20 Guy’s Legends at 700 South Wabash (at Handwritten Recording. 6 p.m., Let Them sioned relationship between homosexual- als sponsors an elegant brunch. 12 p.m., National HIV Testing Day Seminar, 9am Balbo), http://www.interfaithhouse.org Eat Chocolate, 5306 N. Damen, http:// ity and the Bible. Ky Dickens, the movie’s Province Restaurant, 161 N. Jefferson, Free, educational presentations on HIV/ Exotic World and the Burlesque Revival windycityopenmic.com/?page_id=96 director and a Chicago native will be on Chicago, http://www.dot429.com AIDS which will explore aspects of living (2011) Ellen Stone Belic Institute for the Hope & Healing Support Group: LGBT hand for an enlightening discussion and Windy City Gay Idol Finals Finalists face with HIV infection, from understanding Study of Women and; 6 p.m., 312-369- Loss 6:30 p.m., 847-556-1777, Japanese Q&A afterwards. Free, donations accepted. local celebrity judges to be chosen Windy laboratory testing to other conditions 8829, Film Row Cinema of Columbia Col- American Service Committee 4427 N. 7 p.m., 773-248-5683, Bodhi Spiritual City’s ninth Gay Idol. 1:45 p.m., Sidetrack, that can complicate HIV treatment. Center lege Chicago, 1104 S. Wabash, 8th Floor, Clark, http://http://www.carecenter.org/ Center, 2524 N. Lincoln, Suite 218, http:// 3349 N. Halsted, http://www.windycity- on Halsted, 3656 N Halsted http://www.colum.edu/institutewomen- news-events/events-calendar/view/197/ www.bodhispiritualcenter.org mediagroup.com 20th Anniversary Pride and Joy Reception gender date/2011-06-22 Darkest Before Dawn: A Gay Cabaret Fol- No Secret Anymore: The Times of Del Presented by the Chicago Gay & Lesbian LifeLube Community Discussion Preven- lowing a sold-out premiere in Oak Park, Martin and Phyllis Lyon No Secret Any- Hall of Fame. Meet and greet current and tion Revolution or Magical Thinking? A Thursday, June 16 a limited engagement in honor of Pride more reveals the inspiring public work past Hall of Fame inductees, enjoy a de- robust public debate is under way about Transgender Casting Call Looking for trans Month with eighteen LGBT and straight and private lives of Del Martin and Phyllis licious buffet of hot hors d’oeuvres and the potential use of anti-HIV drugs to men or women ages 18-23 to profile in gay friendly performers, including ac- Lyon, two legendary women known as the view the 2010 Hall of Fame exhibit. 2011 prevent HIV infection (also known as a television series to follow the struggles complished actors and a former American founders of the modern lesbian civil-rights nomination forms will be available. $20 pre-exposure prophylaxis or PrEP). Doors and triumphs of young trans people. Please Idol contestant journey through contem- movement who, in 1955, courageously admission; tickets available at the door. open at 6 p.m., taping begins at 7 p.m.. bring a photo, tell us about yourself (age, porary songs and monologues celebrating launched the Daughters of Bilitis, the first Proceeds benefit the 2011 Chicago Gay & Free and open to the public with RSVP. job, where you live, a little background the struggles and triumphs of the LGBT public organization for lesbians in Ameri- Lesbian Hall of Fame. 6 p.m., Circuit Night Hoover-Leppen Theatre. 6 p.m., Center on on yourself, relationship with your fam- journey, $15 advance, $20 at door; 7:30 ca. 2 p.m., Sulzer Regional Library 4455 N. Club, 3641 N. Halsted, http://www.glhal- Halsted, 3656 N Halsted, http://www.life- ily, etc.). 549 W. Randolph., 3rd Floor. p.m., Center on Halsted, 3656 N Halsted, Lincoln, http://www.chipublib.org loffame.org lube.org/forums.php 773-473-4100, casting @towersproduc- http://www.centeronhalsted.org Free screening of Two Spirits Powerful and Songwriting Contest Hosted by Kat Fitzger- tions.com; 12 p.m., 773-473-4100, 549 “Stonewall Uprising...” on WTTW “Stone- W. Randolph St., 3rd Floor wall Uprising: American Experience” 8 PM moving, Lydia Nibley’s Two Spirits explores Tuesday, June 21 ald, 20 performers, special guest judges, Queertopia: The Anti-Violence Project “Fish Out of Water” Q&A Screening for the on WTTW11 HD (11.1). Historical cover- the life and death of Fred Martinez and the prizes $500, a 1 year CTA Plus Card (un- Based on true stories of youth in and critically acclaimed documentary of, “Fish age of the Stonewall rebellion that is ancient Native American two-spirit tradi- limited), or 5 hours of recording time at around the Chicago area: the intertwin- Out of Water,” that explores the impas- credited with kicking off the modern day tion. 2 p.m., Chicago Cultural Center, 78 E. ing stories of Flea, a transgender boy who LGBT rights movement. Repeated on June Washington, http://www.itvs.org/films/ falls for a straight girl and feels pressure 18, 7 p.m. on WTTW Prime (11.2). 8 p.m., two-spirits/photos-and-press-kit to take “T” (testosterone); Teddy, a fierce http://www.wttw.com WCPA Pride Concert “Road Trip” - Windy queer person dealing with harassment; RuPaul’s Drag Race Tour Roscoe’s Tavern City Performing Arts’ 2011 Pride Concert and Lexi, a straight girl questioning all and Absolut Vodka present Logo’s Ru- featuring Windy City Gay Chorus and Aria: labels. 4 p.m., Harold Washington Library Paul’s Drag Race Tour 2011. Live on stage Windy City Women’s Ensemble. Tickets Center, 400 S State catch the Top 6 Queens from Season 3 of $20. 5 p.m., Senn Hall H.S. Campus, 5900 Out in the Suburbs Speakers will include RuPaul’s Drag Race: Raja, Manila, Alexis, N. Glenwood, http://www.windycitysings. representatives from Equality Illinois, Yara, Carmen and Shangela. Hosted by org Lambda Legal, PFLAG, and our very own Frida Lay. $10 cover beginning at 9PM. Sappho’s Salon’s three-year anniversary Pride Youth Program. 7 p.m., 847-441- 9 p.m., (773)281-3355, Roscoe’s, 3356 N The bookstore’s popular salon night for 6191, Northbrook Public Library, http:// Halsted St, http://www.roscoes.com lesbians and their friends is turning three www.linksyouth.org CD4-Kickoff Party CD4-Chicago kicks off with a celebration featuring a performance CD Release Party for C.C. Carter’s new with this month’s theme: Poz Box, like by legendary lesbian musician, Tret Fure. work FEELIN’ GOOD Songs of the ‘80s and mailbox with a twist since the person your Hosted by Kat Fitzgerald. Proceeds benefit ‘90s; C. C. reintroduces some of her old sending a message to just happens to be the artists and the Women’s Voices Fund. time classic poems and puts a spin on new HIV positive or Pos friendly. Interact with $10 cover charge includes cake and cham- works. 8 p.m., Jeffery Pub, 7041 S. Jef- other HIV Positive/Poz-friendly people by pagne! 7:30 p.m., 773-769-9299, Women fery, http://www.pow-wowglobal.com sending a flirt, phone number, message or & Children First, 5233 N. Clark St., http:// even ask someone out on a date. Free BBQ www.womenandchildrenfirst.com and $2 domestic and $3 import beers. 7 “The Homosexuals” About Face The- Wed., June 22 30 Under 30 Awards Windy City Times will p.m., Jackhammer, 6406 N. Clark, http:// atre presents “The Homosexuals,” a play recognize 30 more outstanding LGBT indi- www.jackhammer-chicago.com by Philip Dawkins exploring friendship through the lens of sex. This comedic and viduals (and allies) who are under 30 years Friday, June 17 heartbreaking work is for anyone who’s of age and have made some substantial contributions to the LGBT community, CD4-Kickoff Party CD4-Chicago Rally to End ever fallen in love with a friend. Tickets whether in the fields of entertainment, the War on Drugs Faith-based and com- $28. 8 p.m., 773-784-8565, Victory Gar- politics, health and/or other areas. 5:30 munity organizations will join together to dens Theater, 2257 N Lincoln, http:// p.m., 773-872-7610, Center on Halsted, talk about negative consequences of the aboutfacetheatre.com 3656 N. Halsted, http://www.windycity- war on drugs. 12 p.m., 312-341-2141, mediagroup.com Thompson Place Plaza, http://https://sal- Macy’s welcomes Olympic Skater Johnny sa.democracyinaction.org/o/515/p/salsa/ Sunday, June 19 Weir Musical lunch hour with performanc- event/common/public/?event_key=69669 Pride On the Water by CHM The Chicago es by Chicago Gay Men’s Chorus and no- Guerrilla Girl Bar Sapphic Adventures, the History Museum presents the Pride On the table cabaret duo, Beckie Menzie and Tom NFP professional social networking group, Water boat tour. Participants will learn 30 BUSINESS Michael. 5:30 p.m., Macy’s State Street, presents Guerrilla Girl Bar at C-View on the about key moments in LGBT history and http://pitch.pe/148551 Wed., June 22 29th floor of the hotel. Wear some rain- how the community has had an impact on bow accessories. 6 p.m., Affinia Chicago, Chicago history and culture during this 166 E. Superior, http://www.sapphicad- boat cruise down the Chicago River into Windy City Times’ 30 Under 30 Awards will take place at Center on Halsted, 3656 N. Halsted. Get Photo by Hal Baim : WindyCityMediaGroup.com online ChicagoPride.com WINDY CITY TIMES June 15, 2011 45
BILLY MASTERS SSaattuurrddaayy,,JJuunnee1188TTHH Produced by Windy City political sphere. Nope, we also got a gander at Media Group “I mean, every male secretly wants to have sex some genitalia courtesy of Tito Ortiz. The fight- with Brad Pitt, but that’s a given.”—Adam Levine ing champ apparently finished tanning (already of Maroon 5 and The Voice reveals what men he I’m confused) and decided to take a photo of the finds attractive. Personally, I secretly want to results with his cell phone. This is yet another have sex with Adam Levine! dubious decision, which was compounded when Many gay men have strong, assertive mothers. this photo got sent out via Twitter, proving once OK, it’s a stereotype, but we gay boys love a again that nothing good happens on Twitter strong woman—and we love our ballsy moms. (but you should follow @BillyMasters). Tito says This past week, Big Mama Masters came out of that his account was hacked and he didn’t post a store to find her car being hoisted onto a tow the photo. Yes, and Monica was just looking for truck. When she protested, the driver offered to a place to put out that cigar! But back to Tito— lower the car—for half the price the tow would he most definitely puts that poor Weiner weiner have cost. She balked, the driver shrugged his to shame. Remember Chris Brown’s penis? It’s a shoulders and went about his business ... un- little like that. Well, not “little,” as you’ll see on til Big Mama reached into the truck and took BillyMasters.com. his keys out of the ignition. “You’re not gonna The talented and tasty Chris Evans has some get very far without these,” she said, brandish- concerns over the upcoming Captain America. ing the key chain like a war trophy. When he It’s weighing on him so heavily, he wants to ad- approached her, she defiantly said, “Touch me dress it before the movie even comes out: “I’m and I’ll call the cops.” Leave it to the mother of losing my hair. The fear is that this can span 10 Billy Masters to turn a parking violation into a years so I can be doing this character until I’m civil-rights moment, a feminist crusade and pos- 40. I’m supposed to be like this superior human. sibly a race issue (well, the driver was wearing He can’t be balding. How horrible would it be if gloves). Where’s Johnny Cochran when you need this superior man has male-pattern baldness?” I him? Needless to say, the cops were already en suppose it would show that no one ... not even route and while my mother didn’t get her way, I The Captain, is perfect. But what about Chris’ was never prouder. perfect body? “That I can control. If I miss three That’s one of the important aspects of Pride or four days, I feel like shit. Last year, I got into that makes me ... well, proud. Let us not forget running and I was like, ‘I’m going to start run- Doors: 2pm that the pride movement was started by people ning’ and then I would run on the treadmill and standing up for themselves. Admittedly, these feel great. But I’ll get too thin and lose weight Begins: 3pm stances don’t always happen under ideal circum- so quickly.” Such a tragedy. stances. I’m sure some innocent passerby got Since this column is coming to you on the eve Prizes & surprises! 3349 N. Halsted hit with a stiletto heel outside of the Stone- of Boston Pride, we go directly to the kick-off $10 cover SidetrackChicago.com
also sponsored by WINDY CITY nightspots TIMES
Adam Levine makes his thoughts about Brad Pitt known.
wall Inn, but them’s the breaks. It’s important concert by The Go-Go’s and The B-52s. It was to remember that amidst all the revelry that we a perfect pairing, and one which brought out associate with gay pride, there is one common thousands of people. (The girls commented on theme. We aren’t invisible. We matter. We want how huge the stage was.) This was as intense a to be heard—and sometimes you have to take show as you were gonna get from either band— someone’s keys to get their attention. stripped raw and ready to party. The Go-Go’s Another way to get people’s attention is to could have been marred by Belinda’s defective send out a photo of your penis to two or three or ear monitor, but she’s a game gal and didn’t a few dozen strangers via Twitter while your wife let it slow her down. She even brought out her is pregnant. I swear to you, there is something openly gay son, James Duke Mason, to sing wrong with men. I won’t even say straight men “Whole World Lost Its Head.” We’ll run video of because I can’t tell you how many gay men have that and some backstage photos on BillyMas- sent me photos of their junk while a spousal ters.com. equivalent was in the other room making cof- When I’m celebrating Boston Pride with the fee! One of those penises belonged to Anthony Go-Go’s and the B-52s, it’s time for me to leave Weiner. I just woke up, clicked on an e-mail from the ‘80s and end yet another column. We’ve one of my favorite sources, and BAM ... there it had so many out and proud stories that I only was. No warning. No foreplay. No foreskin. Just have time to remind you to keep tabs on www. a Weiner—and an erect one at that. After I saw BillyMasters.com, the site that’s proud to have it, I asked myself, “Is that all there is to a Wein- served millions of you ... just like its owner! If er?” Well, Barbara Walters found it “impressive,” you’ve got a question or a concern, feel free to but she doesn’t get around as much as I do! My send it along to [email protected] and problem isn’t that he’s sending out dick shots. I promise to get back to you before I bail Big No, my problem is that he’s stupid enough to get Mama Masters out of the big house! Until next caught! I’m smart enough to post the photos on time, remember, one man’s filth is another man’s BillyMasters.com. bible. However, stray penii were not limited to the 46 June 15, 2011 WINDY CITY TIMES Sky’s Gay Pride Mayor: June 25 is ‘Proud to Run’ Day Proud To Run received a special recogni- game June 23 tion award from Mayor Rahm Emanuel and many leaders of Chicago’s LGBT community at the June 9 Chicago Pride 2011 Recep- By Ross Forman help them realize that they are not alone or dif- tion. ferent, and there are other kids with the same The award was given to the organization, The inaugural Family Gay Pride Outing at a Chi- parenting/family structure.” in part, for “[r]ecognizing 30 years of out- cago Sky game is set for Thursday, June 23, All who purchase a ticket through CMSA also standing contributions, through the field when the Connecticut Sun come to town. Tip-off will receive a free ticket to another regular-sea- of sport, to Chicago’s lesbian, gay, bisexu- is set for 7 p.m. son Sky game. There will be an in-game raffle, al, and transgender communities, charities, The Chicago Metropolitan Sports Association held specifically for CMSA, and one person will and service organizations.” (CMSA) has reserved a block of 250 tickets for receive a Sky autographed item. Plus, one per- Emanuel also proclaimed Saturday, June the game at a discounted rate ($12), and CMSA son will win two courtside seats for a regular- 25, Proud to Run Day in Chicago. officials encourage attendees to bring their en- season Sky game of their choice (based on avail- Both the 5K and 10K courses—which tire families. ability). both begin at 8:04 a.m.—start at Montrose “I encourage everyone to participate and bring “Though it will be a great opportunity for the Avenue, approximately three blocks east of the kids out for a great time,” said CMSA’s Sam kids, it also will be a lot of fun for the adults,” Lake Shore Drive. (The aerobic warm-up Hamilton, an event organizer. “Not only will the Hamilton said. “There will be venders with alco- and stretch begin at 7:40 a.m.) At 10 a.m., kids benefit from having the experience of at- hol and snacks like at any sporting event. Come the awards ceremony and a raffle will take tending and watching a women’s professional out and support the team and show your gay place. basketball game, but, [they] will have the op- pride.” Register for the race/walk at http:// portunity to spend time with other kids who also To buy tickets, use the promo code “CMSA” and Dominique Canty. Photo courtesy of the Chi- www.proudtorun.org. The fee is $30. have gay parents or family members. This will visit http://tinyurl.com/cmsasky. cago Sky Proud To Run raises funds to help Chica- help boost confidence and comfort levels and goland LGBT health and service organiza- tions. It is presented in association with Frontrunners/Frontwalkers Chicago, Chica- go’s LGBT running and walking club. Sheila Simon in WINDY CITY Ride for AIDS TIMES Illinois Lt. Gov. Sheila Simon and her husband, Perry Knop, will participate in Ride for AIDS Chicago (RFAC), which Test Positive Aware Network (TPAN) produces. This 200-mile journey, which will take place July 9-10, will raise awareness and funds for organizations that provide ser- vices to those living with HIV/AIDS in the PRIDE DAY Chicago area. The ride has registered more than 350 riders and crew members and has raised AT WRIGLEY more than $250,000. Producers say the grand total will far exceed that amount by Sunday, Sept. 4, 2011 July 9. Opening and closing ceremonies will take place on the east lawn of Northwest- ern University’s Norris University Center in Evanston, rain or shine. Information about RFAC and about mak- MEDIA SPONSORS: ing donations is at http://www.rideforaids. WINDY CITY TIMES n i g h ts p o t s org. Join us for a charitable event at the Ex-football player supports marriage Chicago Cubs vs. Pittsburgh Pirates game equality 1:20 p.m., Sept. 4. Michael Strahan, the record-setting for- mer defensive end of the New York Giants, Bleacher has filmed a video with his fiancée for the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) as part of tickets the group’s New Yorkers for Marriage Equal- $50 ity campaign. In the video, the Strahan feels “it’s unfair to keep committed cou- ples from getting married.” The campaign, www.windycitymediagroup.com/WrigleyPride which raises the public profile of marriage equality in New York, can be viewed online at www.hrc.org/NY4marriage. “Michael Strahan is part of an ever grow- ing list of professional athletes speaking out for marriage equality. There are a lot of A portion of the proceeds will benefit the following charities: tough New Yorkers, but none tougher than Michael Strahan, one of the most feared In partnership with and accomplished defensive ends in his- tory. He’s our Super Bowl champion for New Yorkers for Marriage.” said HRC Senior New York Strategist Brian Ellner. Strahan holds the National Football & League record for sacks in a single season with 22.5. He was part of the 2008 Super Bowl champion New York Giants team and is currently a football analyst on Fox NFL Sunday. WINDY CITY TIMES June 15, 2011 47 CONNE IONS X MAKE IT YOUR BUSINESS i l
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