Windy City Times Welcomes the 2011 Gay Softball World Series

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ANNE HATHAWAY INTERVIEW

page 30 WINDY CITY THE VOICE OF CHICAGO’S GAY, LESBIAN, BI AND TRANS COMMUNITY SINCE 1985 Aug. 24, 2011 TIMES vol 26, no. 46 www.WindyCityMediaGroup.com Windy City Times welcomes the Play 2011 Gay Softball ball! World Series Tony Peregrin interviews Ben Cohen

DANCE FOR LIFE PHOTOS page 32 page 23 PR photo

Plus, interviews in our AIDS @ 30 section with

SANTIAGO AFTERMATH page 18 page 8 Photo courtesy of Louganis Greg Louganis

LOCAL ARTIST page 19 ADAM GUERINO Photo by Katie Weigel page 29 Softball players Chuck Jacobson, Dan Tran and Roberto Cabrera pose in the stands at Wrigley Field. Rudy Galindo Photo by Dave Ouano. See the current issue of Nightspots for more from this photo shoot. 2 Aug. 24, 2011 WINDY CITY TIMES

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Photos on cover (left, from top): Anne Hathaway photo by Giles Keyte; Dance for Life image by Kat Fitzgerald; Christina Santiago photo by Kat Fitzgerald; photo of Adam Guerino courtesy of Guerino

CHICAGO’S GAY, LESBIAN,CE 1985 ANNE THE VOICE OF ITY SIN WAY TRANS COMMUN 1 HATHA BI AND 24, 201 Aug. , no. 46 INTERVIEW WINDY CITYvol 26 0 page 3 TIMESyMediaGroup.com www.WindyCit Windy City Times welcomes the 2011 Gay Softball Play World Series Tony Peregrin s interview Ben ball! Cohen DOWNLOAD THIS!

page 32 Go to www.WindyCityMediaGroup.com our h NCE FOR Plus, interviews in DA AIDS @ 30 section wit LIFE PHOTOS page 23 to download complete issues of Windy City Times and Nightspots. page 18 Greg Louganis

SANTIAGO AFTERMATH page 8

9 page 1 Then click on any ad and be taken directly to the advertiser’s Web site! Rudy Galindo

ARTIST LOCAL ADAM GUERINO page 29 online exclusives at www.WindyCityMediaGroup.com IN LIKE QUINN Now that Comic Colin Quinn talked with WCT about his upcoming one-man show. the hard Photo by Carol Rosegg part is over, it’s time to take care of the easy stuff. See pics from a benefit concert See photos and put on by Crystal on the dot read a review Bowersox and Read about dot429’s inaugural of Katy Perry’s LeAnn Rimes Exercise your new rights by protecting recent concert. speaker series event—and see plenty (above). your property. Update your deed and title of photos. Photo by Jerry Nunn Photo by Kat Fitzgerald insurance policy to ensure you are receiving EVENT HORIZON JUST THE HALIFAX, MA’AM the full benefits of your property ownership. See images from two very different events: the variety show Queerpocalypse and the Lynn Sage Cancer Foundation’s Summer Soiree.

THAT’S ENTERTAINMENT This week’s entertainment round-up includes items on “Baby Gaga,” Simon Cowell and “The A-List: Dallas.”

Read an article on the 100th anniversary of the Titanic’s maiden voyage—and plus Halifax, Nova Scotia’s, museum that’s all DAILY BREAKING NEWS about the ship. Photo courtesy of Destination Halifax

Gay Softball nightspots The hilarious World Series #1049 • August 17, 2011 & Windy City Del Shores Rodeo! Show #431

Batter up! Nightspots welcomes the 2011 Gay Softball nightspots World Series. 847-384-2600

Market Days Nightspots madness. interviews page 20-21 Stevie Nicks. page 14 [email protected] Find Nightspots on www.WindyCityQueercast.com 4 Aug. 24, 2011 WINDY CITY TIMES 7.56 per 1,000 households overall and a 57-per- ONLINE AT cent jump over 2000. That ranked Texas 19th among the 46 states and territories reported WINDYCITYMEDIAGROUP.COM Census shows a thus far. Sixty-one percent of the same-sex cou- NATIONAL NEWS ple households were female and 19 percent were raising children. Dallas had the highest density within the state, with 15.01 same-sex couple households per 1,000. Second was Galveston, new ‘gayest’ with 14.66; Austin with 14.42; and Pflugerville with 13.44. —New Jersey counted 24,112 same-sex couple households, or 7.5 per 1,000 households —Vermont governor area in U.S. overall. That was a 45-percent jump over 2000’s (left) officiates count and ranked New Jersey 32nd among the By Lisa Keen etown, Northhampton had the second highest same-sex wedding 46 states and territories reported thus far. Sixty- Keen News Service density of same-sex couples in the state, with one percent of the same-sex couples were fe- 45.29 per 1,000 households. Nearby Easthamp- —In the Life to male and 24 percent were raising children. The There is a new gayest place in the United ton ranked third with 27.99 per 1,000, followed honor journalist coastal town of Ocean Grove had the highest States—at least when it comes to number of by Greenfield Town, 20 miles to the north, with Jonathan Capehart density of same-sex couples in the state, at 45.1 same-sex couples: Provincetown, Massachusetts. 21.0, and Arlington, northwest of Boston, with per 1,000. Also, there’s a new “gayest” state: the District of 17.52. —N.J. bridal shop —Maryland recorded 16,987 same-sex cou- Columbia. (Editor’s note: Designating the district —Florida had 65,601 same-sex couple house- drops lesbian client ples, or 7.88 per 1,000. That was a 51-percent as a state will be explained later.) holds in 2010, a 60-percent leap since the 2000 increase over 2000. Sixty-five percent were fe- The costal resort town in Massachusetts has Census and 8.8 per 1,000 households. Fifty- male, 24 percent were raising children. Cheverly, long been a gay favorite, both for summer vaca- three percent of the same-sex couples were fe- greatest density, 13.18 per 1,000. outside Washington, D.C., had the highest den- tions and year-round living. Provincetown has male and 18 percent were raising children. After —Arkansas reported 7,004 same-sex couple sity in the state with 27.95 per 1,000. now usurped Palm Springs, Calif., as the ju- Wilton Manors, Oakland Park had the highest households, a 58-percent increase over 2000. —Louisiana counted 12,153 same-sex cou- risdiction with the most same-sex couples per density, at 56.04 per 1,000 households. Third Sixty-five percent were female and 27 percent ples, a 38-percent increase over 2000, and 1,000 households. was Miami Shores at 48.86, followed by Fort were raising children. Little Rock had the high- about 7 per 1,000 households. Sixty-four per- Analysis by the Williams Institute of Census Lauderdale with 35.8 and Key West with 34.34. est density in the state with 9.92 per 1,000. cent of the same-sex couples were female and data from the 2010 survey, released Aug. 18 —Washington, D.C., recorded 5,146 same-sex The Census Bureau has state specific data to 26 percent were raising children. New Orleans for Massachusetts and four other states, reveals couple households in 2010, a 40-percent in- report on only five states now: Mississippi, New had the greatest density in the state, with 13.58 that Provincetown reported 163 same-sex cou- crease over the number in 2000 and 19.3 per Mexico, North Dakota, Rhode Island and Tennes- same-sex couples per 1,000 households. ples per 1,000 households. 1,000 households overall. The Congressionally see. That data should be released Aug. 25, but is —Iowa recorded 6,540 same-sex couples, a The Williams Institute is a think tank affiliated controlled district, which longs to become a unlikely to change the profiles of the top tier of 77-percent jump over 2000, or about 5.35 per with UCLA that specializes in policy research re- state, has—by far—the lowest ratio of female states in terms of same-sex couple households. 1,000. Seventy-one percent were female and 21 lated to sexual orientation. It has analyzed data couples to male couples; only 28 percent of ©2011 by Keen News Service. All rights re- percent were raising children. Iowa City had the being released from the Census Bureau on a D.C.’s same-sex couple households were female. served.

close deportation proceedings against Benshi- Gay couple’s mol, a Venezuelan citizen. deportation On Aug. 18, Secretary of Homeland Security Janet Napolitano announced a case-by-case case closed review of all current and future deportation The government publicly is dropping the de- cases—what advocates cite as another mile- portation proceedings that threatened to tear stone in the fight to repeal the Defense of apart Alex Benshimol and Douglas Gentry—a Marriage Act. married, gay, binational couple in California— “We are cautiously optimistic after the an- marking the second time in which Immigration nouncement this week by Secretary Napolitano and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has agreed to that all 300,000 pending deportation cases close a deportation case involving such a cou- will be reviewed for possible closure, including ple, according to a press release. those impacting LGBT families,” said Soloway. After appearing before San Francisco Immi- “However, we do not yet know the mechanics gration Judge Marilyn Teeter for their deporta- of that process, nor how long it will take for tion hearing on July 13, she instructed the the government working group to carry out its government to respond within 60 days to a mission. In the meantime, we must continue lengthy and detailed request for administra- to fight for each couple and for an end to tive closure from the couple’s attorney, Lavi DOMA deportations across the board.” Soloway. Florida (above) had 65,601 same-sex couple households in 2010. Photo by Andrew Davis Teeter scheduled the next hearing for Sep- tember 2013, postponing deportation pro- Teen dies after ceedings for more than two years in case the state-by-state basis. As of Aug. 18, the Census (No other state has under 52 percent, which alleged hate crime government did not agree to close the case. On BY KATE SOSIN Bureau has released data on 46 states; Washing- is what New York recorded; the average is 63 Aug. 11, however, Teeter received and granted ton, D.C.; and Puerto Rico. percent.) D.C. also has the smallest percentage the government’s motion to administratively A 19-year-old man was reportedly beaten to Wilton Manors, Fla., with 140 same-sex cou- raising children: 10 percent. The average per- death in an alleged anti-gay hate crime in Wa- ples per 1,000 households, places second among centage of same-sex couples raising children is terloo, Iowa. cities and towns reported thus far, in terms of about 22 percent. The Logan Circle neighbor- According to the WCF Courier, Marcellus An- same-sex couple density. Wilton Manors is a city hood between P and S streets and 11th to 14th drews, died Aug. 21 after being removed from within Broward County, just west of the Lauder- streets has the highest density in the city: 81.64 life support. Andrews was allegedly beaten by dale beach, between Miami and Boca Raton. same-sex couples per 1,000 households. That is a group of people who yelled anti-gay slurs at Prior to the most recent release of data, Palm followed by the better known gay neighborhood him in the early hours of Aug. 19. Springs had the highest reported at 115. of Dupont Circle, with 75.89. A Facebook page in Andrews’ honor had ex- Counting the District of Columbia as a state, —Michigan had 16,785 same-sex couples re- ceeded 1,200 by Aug. 22. Friends expressed instead of a city, the home of the nation’s capi- ported in 2010, a 9-percent increase over 2000 their hopes that Andrews would find peace and tal has the most dense population of same-sex and 5.6 per 1,000 households overall. Sixty-nine justice. Others expressed outrage over the al- couple households: 19.3 per 1,000. Counting percent of the same-sex couples were female leged anti-gay murder. only bona fide states, Vermont is on top with and 21 percent were raising children. The city “I will never forget the laughs and encour- 10.9, followed by Massachusetts with 10.2 and of Pleasant Ridge, outside Detroit, had the high- aging words you gave me,” wrote on friend. California with 9.98. est density, with 59.55 per 1,000. Michigan’s “Everything I do will be in your memory…Love Among the states reported most recently: same-sex couple density ranks 41st among the you so much and I’m blessed to have experi- —Massachusetts had 20,415 same-sex couple 46 states and territories reported thus far. enced your friendship.” households identify on the 2010 Census, a 19 —South Carolina reported 8,815 same-sex Windy City Times will update as more details percent increase over the number reported in couples, a 16-percent increase over 2000 and become available. the 2000 Census. The 2010 count makes for 10.2 6.4 per 1,000 households overall. Sixty-six per- same-sex couple households per 1,000 house- cent were female and 25 percent were raising holds overall. Sixty-two percent of the same-sex children. The resort town of Myrtle Beach had couple households in Massachusetts were female the highest density in the state, with 11.67 per Lavi Soloway. Picture by Klaus Enrique couples, and 19 percent of all same-sex couples 1,000 households. Photography in the state were raising children. After Provinc- —Texas recorded 67,413 same-sex couples or WINDY CITY TIMES Aug. 24, 2011 5 Activist shows candidates’ stances on LGBT issues

Most LGBTs don’t realize how far off full equality still is, they don’t vote very often, and they vote like most other Americans. Activist Ned Flaherty indicated to Windy City Times that he wants to change that. Flaherty has created a table on the presidential candidates’ stances on an array of LGBT-related issues. He emailed Windy City Times that he hopes the table will have “journalists (and competing candidates) researching deeper; candidates being forced to explain their positions and justify themselves (especially in compari- son to other candidates); and voters challenging candidates to do better.” He added that the three-step cycle will repeat itself quite a few times over the next 15 months. “Know your rights, set your goals, and elect candidates who deliver,” he said. “Most candidates are still shifting sideways, and sometimes in both directions at the same time. But when this project ends 15 months from now, every LGBT American will know how far they’re still marginalized; who they support or oppose; and why—and the candidates will really know it.” Flaherty—who writes from Boston, Mass.— created this project after scaling back his volunteer efforts regarding the repeal of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell.” —Andrew Davis Guardian Angels Q&A Sept. 14 There will be a Boystown community Q&A with the Guardian Angels Wed., Sept. 14, 7-9 p.m., at the Center on Halsted, 3656 N. Halsted. BREAKING WWW.WINDYCITYMEDIAGROUP.COM For more info or to RSVP, email Boystown- [email protected]. NEWS

Why CSU? “ Close to my family and my goals.”

AARON CHAPMAN Freshman, Computer Science

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6 Aug. 24, 2011 WINDY CITY TIMES immersed in the Prop 8 election, which I just have to be undone by Congress and the courts. took on with a friend. I worked more than full- The courts are obviously our best bet as is tradi- Fred Karger on vying time on that tracking all of this money, putting tional with any civil-rights movement an issue. a website together called Californians Against Finally, President Obama came around on that Hate, planning boycotts, and putting demon- instead of enforcing DOMA cases they are now for presidency and strations together. I never even had the thought saying it’s unconstitutional. Well, better late until it occurred to me that I could now run for than never I guess. DOMA is a PR term—as if political office (which I’d always wanted to do we’re threatening marriage by joining in. I am the Fox News complaint but couldn’t since I was in the closet). Now that completely offended by DOMA and will do any- my secret was out, suddenly there was nothing thing in my power to overturn that and get rid By Sarah Toce holding me back. Now, of course, I didn’t quite of that hateful law of discrimination. think of running for president right away…I WCT: Is America ready for a gay command- Republican Fred Karger is the first openly gay was just thinking of different things. And then I er-in-chief when we are not allowed to serve presidential candidate in the United States. Al- thought, “Why not?” the country openly under “Don’t Ask, Don’t though he met all of the requirements to par- WCT: How has the support been since throw- Tell?” Can we overcome the prejudices? ticipate in a recent Fox News debate, he was ing your hat in the ring? FK: Well, it’s going to take awhile. We have denied access. FK: I put together a legal defense fund called religion-based bigotry in this country, which is His 185-page complaint letter to the Federal Five for Fred. I was overwhelmed by the support sanctioned discrimination. It’s an embarrass- Election Commission (FEC)—hand-delivered to I received. People have been following what I ment. When you look at the U.S. Constitution Rupert Murdoch (owner of Fox News) Aug. 18— have been doing and backing me. It’s one thing where “all men are created equal” but yet here read: “I am the first openly gay major party can- to put in your own money to some extent, but we practice discrimination. I had lunch with an didate to ever run for President of the United you need to also have core support out there so individual dismissed from the military for being States. I have experienced many doors slammed that was very meaningful to me and also helped gay and it just pains me. He’s been so devas- in my face by individuals and outside political in my political decision to consider taking the tated by DADT and it’s despicable. It’s discrimi- organizations during the past eighteen months, next step to run [for president]. nation sanctioned by the government. but this blatant affront by Fox News executive’s WCT: You have been very outspoken regard- How hypocritical is it that the commander-in- smacks of discrimination and I hope the Com- ing HIV/AIDS. chief could be openly gay, but no members of mission will investigate post-haste.” FK: I’m 61 years old and was so impacted by the military can? I can’t really say that anymore, Before throwing his hat in the presidential HIV/AIDS. I lost so many friends who were close but I used to all the time. It got people thinking ring, Karger worked extensively as a gay-rights to me. I use my platform to talk about HIV/AIDS … and it makes no sense. activist opposing Proposition 8, the Defense of in situations when it would normally not come I’ve often said in speeches that right after I’m Marriage Act (DOMA) and “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” up. I am happy to do that. When I started my sworn in my hand’s going to go right from the (DADT). Karger was also the driving force behind campaign in New Orleans, La., (April 2010) I Bible down to the pen and the executive order political campaigns totaling more than 27 years. said right then and there that we need a cure to show no enforcement of the DADT law. Hope- Windy City Times spoke with Karger immedi- and a vaccine. We need to keep awareness and fully that will be gone within a matter of weeks ately following his delivery of the Murdoch letter safety front and center and funded. I talk about and we won’t have to worry about it—although to the FEC. the issues that people don’t always want to talk it will take a long time in the military. It’s not Windy City Times: You are the first openly about. It is interesting to watch reactions from easy being gay. We have a lot to work out there gay candidate for president of the United older Republican audiences in Iowa and New and hopefully we will. States. [Also], you are running on the Repub- Hampshire. There are quite a few surprised looks WCT: What is going on with Fox News? lican ticket. Please tell us how this all works Fred Karger. Photo by Adam Bouska out there because people have to start thinking Please fill us in on any recent updates regard- cohesively together. about it. ing your participation in the debates. Fred Karger: I’ve spent my life in Republican WCT: Why do you feel it is important to FK: This is the third debate. In the last cycle, politics as first a volunteer and then for 27 years lower the voting age to 16 or 17 years old there are about 18 or 19. So, I am zero for three. as a professional behind-the-scenes political of the largest businesses that gave the most and get younger voters involved in political The first debate and the second debate I did not consultant, government affairs … so I was al- amount of money to Prop 8. We settled two and campaigns? qualify for, but the third debate I did. I just ways involved in political campaigns. I actually negotiated settlements so that they would give FK: It is very important because, first off, filed a complaint today asking for an investiga- used to do a lot of work in Washington State and money to LGBTQ organizations—some of which younger people do not have all the prejudice tion for this because I should’ve been in. I met I’ve spent a lot of time in the Pacific Northwest. are still doing it. We’ve been very successful at that their parents and grandparents may have. the qualifications for Fox News and should have When I retired seven and a half years ago, I be- slowing down the big money to these [anti-gay] So, that is one of the reasons I am advocating been in, but I was not. I am not privy to their came (after two years of goofing off) a political campaigns because there should be no bragging voting age be lowered to 16 or 17 years old. meetings, but for some reason I was not allowed gay activist. Having lived my adult life in the rights to giving six-figure [salaries] to take away Younger people voting support marriage equal- in. I am not happy about the situation. I per- closet, I guess I was ready to come bursting out the rights of the minority. ity. Some will be a little more conservative on sonally delivered the package to Rupert Murdoch of the closet. So, I did and when Proposition 8 WCT: Why run for president now? Why not fiscal issues, but certainly socially mattered. today who is, of course, the owner of Fox News. came along I became very involved with it. That back in 2008? I think it’s important to get kids involved in I am considering a civil lawsuit for damages. No was just a little over three years ago. FK: I decided about a year and a half ago to school on things they are interested in and if more Mr. Nice Gay. WCT: What was your involvement with Prop- run for president. I tested the waters—traveled they are interested in voting and elections in WCT: New Hampshire is your next stop! osition 8? all over to New Hampshire, Iowa [and] Maine, high school, maybe they will be less likely to What’s on the agenda for you there? FK: I was an aggressive activist—much more and talked to a lot of people and threw my hat drop out. If candidates are talking to them and FK: Coming home! Well, a little bit of catch-up so than we’ve really ever seen. I boycotted four in the ring. I didn’t run in 2008 because I was getting them involved in the campaign, I think at home on Saturday and then I have a precinct it’s very important for our movement. The LGBTQ block in Dover and the Young Republicans call. community and all the allies that are younger Sunday is another big Republican gathering of step forward to help us. It will make life much all-ages. Then next week I will be all over the better for millions of Americans and those state! wood blinds designer screen shades around the world for generations. Fred Karger’s 158-page complaint letter to WCT: Please explain your position regarding the FEC has been delivered and the investiga- honeycomb shades window shadings federal gay marriage and the Defense of Mar- tion is currently underway. riage Act (DOMA). Call Greg FK: Well, it was passed by Congress so it would SAVE $50* On any order over $499 ENDA briefing with AIDS Legal Council SAVE $100* On any order over $999 Quigley Aug. 25 hosts ‘Orient Congressman Mike Quigley will be the key- SAVE $200* note speaker at an Employee Non-Discrimina- Express’ Aug. 24 AIDS Legal Council of Chicago’s annual sum- On any order over $1,999 tion Act (ENDA) legislative briefing Thursday, mer party and largest fundraising event of the SAVE $300* Aug. 25, at Jenner & Block LLP, 353 N. Clark On any order over $2,999 year—”Orient Express”—will be held Wed., St., at 5:30 p.m. With this ad - O er ends 10/15/11 Aug. 24, 6-9 p.m., at Sidetrack, 3349 N. Hal- The Human Rights Campaign (HRC), Office- sted St. Max and Jenner & Block are hosting the event. There will be more than 100 silent auction Panelists will include HRC Illinois Political items, door prizes, a grand raffle, traditional Chair Bill Weeks; Rocco Claps, director of the French and Turkish cuisine and Turkish dancing Illinois Dept. of Human Relations; and Jenner by renowned dancer Kerensa DeMars. & Block litigation associate Jay Schleppen- Call for Exceptional Tickets to Orient Express start at $50 each; bach. FREE In-Home Appointment see http://www.aidslegal.com. RSVP to Marc Garcia at [email protected] 800.245.7790 and 312-618-8214. www.DraperyConnection.com Ext. 10 Ask for Greg Greg’s Web Page WINDY CITY TIMES Aug. 24, 2011 7

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CBF-11-0007 NSP 9_7x13_5 C.indd 1 5/31/11 9:34 AM 8 Aug. 24, 2011 WINDY CITY TIMES As community mourns Santiago, Brennon recovers in Ind. BY KATE SOSIN and Gays), delivered large bags of food as well. “The support has been overwhelming,” said Two hundred miles from the hospital bed where Baker. Alisha Brennon is recovering from injuries sus- In Chicago, the Celtic Softball Club also aimed tained in the Indiana State Fair stage collapse to ease some of the burden. The team, which is that killed her fiancé, Chicago’s LGBT community rival of Brennon’s softball team, made a last- has rallied around Brennon. minute decision to turn their own fundraiser Brennon was transported to an Indianapolis into a fundraiser for Brennon. hospital Aug. 13 due to injuries sustained dur- More than 100 people packed into T’s Restau- ing the stage collapse, which has now killed rant and Bar Aug. 20. to raise money to help seven. Brennon suffered fractures to her skull pay Brennon’s medical bills and supplement her and broke her leg and multiple ribs. income while she recovers from the accident. In Brennon’s friends say they’re doing their best total, the team raised $6,125. to keep her in good spirits and support her Brennon and Santiago’s Chicago Force Football through recovery. teammates were also on hand at the fundraiser. “She’s just an amazing kid,” said Stacey Baker, Friends celebrated the couple’s resilience on and a Chicago Force teammate who has been at the off the field at the upbeat event. hospital with Brennon. “She is improving every “They were both really tough,” said Lauren day.” Haase. “[Santiago] was like 110 pounds, and if

Allen said the suit also aims to challenge Lesbian widow discrimination against LGBT couples in Indi- ana. suing over “It was impossible for [Beth] to reclaim the remains on her spouse,” Allen said, adding stage collapse that Urschel had to track down VanDam’s ex- BY KATE SOSIN husband in order to release her remains from the Marion County Coroner. As Chicago united around Alisha Brennon, According to Alfarena Ballew, chief deputy hospitalized in the wake of her fiancé’s death coroner, VanDam’s remains were released to at the Indiana State Fair last week, another her brother. Ballew said that she did not have lesbian widow in Indiana filed suit over her knowledge of Urschel requesting VanDam’s re- partner’s death in the same incident. mains. Beth Urschel, 49, of Wanatah, Ind., is seek- Ballew said her office had no official policy ing more than $60 million in the wrongful on the release of partners in same-sex unions Above: Patrons at the Alisha Brennon fundraiser. Right: Photo collage at the event of Christina death of her partner of 10 years. Tammy Van- from other jurisdictions but said that her office Santiago and Brennon. Photos by Kate Sosin Dam, 42, died in the stage collapse that killed would most likely allow it. six others Aug. 13. “I don’t think it would be an issue,” Ballew The suit alleges that fair officials failed to said. Brennon is “out of the woods” Baker said, and we needed a blocker, she used to block for us.” take necessary precautions during bad weather Last week, rumors swirled that the coroner’s is expected to make a full physical recovery. She Brennon and Santiago’s story received nation- that resulted in the collapse of the stage. office refused to release the remains of Chica- was moved out of the intensive-care unit early al press this week. Kenneth J. Allen, a personal injury lawyer goan Christina Santiago to her partner Alisha last week but remains unable to return to Chi- Country music sensation Chely Wright posted who is representing Urschel, alleged that fair Brennon, due to lack of recognition for same- cago. positive wishes for Brennon on her Twitter ac- and concert producers failed to protect at- sex couples. That story turned out to be inac- Santiago’s family and friends spent the week count. “Christina Santiago: Partner/LGBT Activ- tendees by ignoring bad weather warnings and curate, however. mourning the loss of the LGBT health advocate, ist/Country Music Fan. Rest In Peace,” Wright constructing a shaky stage. It remains unclear if Urschel’s story was the who was well-known for her work with Amigas wrote. “Sending prayers to her partner, Alisha “They are trying to pretend like this was an incident in question, reported initially about Latinas and the Lesbian Community Care Project. Brennon for healing. Xo.” act of God,” Allen said. Santiago and then retracted by The Bilerico On Aug. 19 Santiago was buried next to her However, in addition to positive press, online Allen has filed a similar suit on behalf of Project. mother at St. Raymond’s Cemetery in the Bronx, news blog The Bilerico Project published a story VanDam’s 17 year-old daughter. According to Allen, Urschel and VanDam had N.Y., where she grew up. that claimed that Indianapolis coroner’s office Both, said Allen, were filed in an attempt to been married in Hawaii but were quiet about Many Chicagoans close to Santiago traveled to refused to release Santiago’s body to Brennon halt plans to move the wreckage, which will their relationship in Indiana where their mar- New York for the service. Those who were not due to the Defense of Marriage Act. The story likely be used as evidence in the case. riage was not recognized. Now, Allen said, he able to make it to New York have been able to was untrue and was retracted the next day. Andy Klotz, public relations director for the wants the lawsuit to challenge lack of recogni- stay up-to-date via a new website dedicated to In a related matter, another woman whose state fair, declined to comment on the suit. tion for same-sex couples in Indiana. Brennon and Santiago, http://www.brennonsan- wife was killed in the accident has reported such The suit also names several companies in- “When someone is in a state of grief, to im- tiago.com/index.html. an incident. An attorney for Beth Urschel alleges volved in the concert production. pose on them the hardship of discrimination Amigas Latinas and Howard Brown Health Cen- that Urschel was forced to track down her wife’s Mid-America Sound Corporation, which owns is just unforgiveable,” said Allen, who added ter are planning a memorial service in Chicago, ex-husband in order to claim the remains of her the collapsed structure, is one company named that he intends to advance the issue of partner but that memorial will wait until Brennon is well partner of 10 years, Tammy VanDam. in the suit. A spokesperson from Mid-America rights in Indiana beyond this first lawsuit. enough to attend, said Amigas Board President According to Amigas Latinas, Brennon’s wish- said that the company was in the process of Asked if $60 million was a steep demand, Rosa Yadira Ortiz. es have been respected thus far. drafting a press statement. In the meantime, Allen said that he and his client want people Brennon spent the week at the hospital fight- Howard Brown Health Center has been dis- the company posted condolences on its web- to understand that the collapse “is a big deal.” ing to get well enough to be transported back cussing the possibility of creating a memorial site. Allen said others who lost family in the inci- home, said Baker. Her family and friends have fund in honor of Santiago but has yet to release “All of us at Mid-America Sound are deeply dent have also contacted him about joining been with her throughout. official plans. saddened by the devastating tragedy at the the suit. “Her spirits have been up and down, obvious- Brennon’s friends are asking that community Indiana State Fair this past Saturday, August According to Allen, Urschel took VanDam ly,” said Baker. “It’s been a very difficult thing members send her upbeat messages while she re- 13,” the statement said. “We have extended to the concert as a birthday present. She was … but she’s bouncing back.” covers. Messages can be posted at http://www. our condolences to the victims and their fami- also injured during the collapse and has been According to Baker, fair concertgoers have brennonsantiago.com/guestbook.html. Friends lies. An independent investigation has been released from the hospital after losing part of been bringing Brennon food. An Indianapolis are reading notes to Brennon daily, Baker said. initiated as we work to understand, as best we her foot. PFLAG (Parents, Families, and Friends of Lesbian can, what happened Saturday night.” WINDY CITY TIMES Aug. 24, 2011 9 Activists challenge Northalsted Lincoln Park biz group on youth funding club sued BY KATE SOSIN said several businesses have been robbed and vandalized and that news reports suggesting for bias A group of LGBT activists is demanding that that crime is on the rise in Lakeview have de- By Joe Franco the Northalsted Business Alliance fund neigh- terred shoppers in an already bad economy. borhood youth services at the same level it has “I wish there was an easier answer, but there Camila Klinger, the former general manager of funded private police this year. isn’t,” he told activists. “It’s not just the news Skybar at 2242 N. Lincoln Ave. (now known Representatives from Gay Liberation Network, that’s happening. It’s what’s happening with our as Fuze Nightclub) filed suit Aug. 8 in federal Gender JUST and Join the Impact-Chicago, businesses.” court against former employers and Tony An- showed up at I.D. Inc., to confront Anthony Al- Gender JUST has previously challenged the ton, the club’s owner. maguer, I.D. business owner and treasurer of the alliance. Last fall, the group surprised Andrew She alleges in her complaint, among other Camilla Klinger. Photo from Klinger Northalsted Business Alliance, Aug. 19. T. Knecht, then president of the alliance, at his things, that Anton limited the number of Afri- They say the alliance let them down when they chiropractic office. The two groups had been in can-American patrons allowed in the club; or- put $50,000 towards hiring private security for meetings since, but activists said the meetings dered the club’s DJs to stop playing “African- why, if she continued to witness such serious the neighborhood instead of funding youth pro- did not produce desired results. American” music; and refused to book large instances of discrimination, she stayed with grams. Activists told Almaguer that if matching The latest action however, marks a new union parties over the phone with individuals with Skybar, Klinger replied, “I truly believed that funds were not put towards such programs, they between three of Chicago’s largest direct-action African-American sounding names. if I stood up for what was right and refused would launch a protest campaign against the al- LGBT organizations. Gay Liberation Network, Klinger also claims Anton treated gay and to carry out Anton’s illegal directives things liance. Gender JUST and Join the Impact have histori- lesbian clientele less favorably than his would change. I naively believed that if I con- “The problem isn’t too many social services,” cally pursued different causes, sometimes in op- straight patrons. She alleges in her complaint tinued to do a good job, I would not be fired said Andy Thayer, a veteran activist with Gay position to each other. that although she started a “gay night on Sun- for refusing to violate the law, but in the end, Liberation Network. “We need more social ser- Representatives from the groups said from days, Anton told [her] that the event should that’s exactly what happened.” vices.” now on, they would work together on securing focus on attracting gay men and not ‘butch’ She also claims in her compliant that she Thayer said that the money should have been more funds for LGBT youth programs. lesbians. Anton also told [Klinger] that he did personally was harmed by working for Anton put towards keeping Center on Halsted open “It will only grow from here hopefully,” said not want any gay customers in the club on the and Skybar: “I was the general manager of Sky- later so that youth had a place to go after dark. Andrés Gallegos of Gender JUST. weekends.” bar and found myself working for a man who Almaguer said the alliance does want to work Almaguer said the alliance is open to working Klinger, who was an out lesbian during her did not want to be tied to African American or with youth but that problems in the neighbor- with young people on the issues at hand. time with Anton, said that she “believed that homosexual events. As the GM, I was the face hood are threatening small-business owners. He Anton was okay with … excluding lesbian of this night club, so to the public it looked women who did not conform with society’s like I was the one setting the rules. I felt my view of how women should dress and behave. relationship with some industry promoters was It was clear to me that he simply wanted to also hurt because of the biased way Anton ran exclude certain people from the club based on his business.” either race or sexuality.” Anton’s name is not new to allegations of She also felt that Anton allowed the Sun- racial discrimination. A story in a June 14, day night gay events because it was a way for 2007 Chicago Sun-Rimes column reported that him to make money on a night that is typically Anton was accused of expelling four African- slow for clubs. She alleges in her complaint American men from his Mark II Lounge in Rog- that despite having these events, Anton re- ers Park. Anton, after being confronted by a fused to allow any photographs to appear on Caucasian patron, allegedly responded, “I’m the club’s website or to allow any promotion not racist, it’s just bad for business.” Windy of the event. Klinger said, “Anton did not want City Times attempted to contact Anton—who Skybar to be known as a GLBTQ bar or associ- is represented by Richard Tilghman, IV at Un- ated with what he viewed as the ‘wrong crowd’. garetti & Harris—but received no response by Anton made it clear to me that he thought the press deadline. GLBTQ and African-American people are ‘bad Ultimately, Klinger is bringing her suit for business.’” against Anton and Skybar because she be- “Before interviewing with Anton,” said lieved that “what they did was morally wrong Klinger, “I had never heard of Skybar or any and illegal.” She hopes that her case will en- discrimination at that club. Before Skybar, courage others who have witnessed or experi- I worked at a well-known Hip Hop club that enced discrimination whether inside the club prided itself on diversity and hosted a weekly scene or elsewhere. “Our voice and knowledge GLBTQ night for years. There I never saw the are our absolute most powerful tools for any discrimination I witnessed at Skybar.” Asked kind of change, big or small,” she said. From left: Andy Thayer, Andrés Gallegos, Ryne Poelker and Brian Johnson Jr. Photo by Kate Sosin 10 Aug. 24, 2011 WINDY CITY TIMES Employee claims cated she should do so.” IDHR: Gay couple’s The EEOC ruled Aug. 8 that it would not in- sexual harassment, vestigate Cartee’s claim; the commission instead issued a right to sue. Tsamis said she rights were violated unfair termination plans to file a lawsuit seeking damages for lost By ERICA DEMAREST income. By Ross Forman Tsamis admitted she was partially surprised by “I lost my apartment,” Cartee said. “She the favorable news. “There is never any guar- A former A Safe Place employee has filed a took everything from me. She really did. And Partners Todd and Mark Wathen were “pleas- antee of a positive outcome in a legal matter charge of discrimination against the company, while I have to claim some responsibility for antly surprised” with the Illinois Department despite what appears to be strong facts at the alleging the executive director sexually ha- it going that way, it’s a classic case of sexual of Human Rights’ announcement that it found outset,” she said. “We always sensed Mark and rassed and unfairly terminated her when the harassment. … Same-sex harassment is just as “substantial evidence” two banquet facilities Todd were on the right side of the law and we pair’s romantic relationship went south. bad, and it goes on. People look the other way. that refused to host their civil-union ceremony are happy to see that IDHR agrees with us.” In a statement filed with the Illinois De- They think it doesn’t merit getting in trouble violated the pair’s civil rights, said their lawyer, The developments, according to Tsamis, “mean partment of Human Rights and the Equal Em- for, and it was certainly as bad as anything Betty Tsamis of Chicago. that we received the green light to do one of ployment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), I’ve ever experienced.” Beall Mansion in Alton and TimberCreek Bed [multiple] things: explore settlement, request a Elizabeth Cartee—who worked for A Safe Place A Safe Place provides safe housing and sup- and Breakfast in Paxton are accused of violat- commission hearing, or file the matter in court. from February 2008 to December 2010—said portive counseling options to survivors of doing the civil rights of the Mattoon pair, who, “On a larger level, these developments send she and Executive Director Phyllis DeMott were mestic violence, for free. instead, had a ceremony and reception in their a message to businesses that think it’s OK to involved in an intimate relationship during backyard in early June. discriminate against LGBT people and justify it Cartee’s employment. “We never knew which way the investigation in ways that are not supported by the law. This Cartee alleged that when she ended the was going to go, despite our confidence in the is the type of case that can set a legal precedent relationship, DeMott retaliated by changing facts and the law,” Tsamis said. “The investiga- in Illinois and serve as persuasive authority in Cartee’s job duties, suspending and eventually firing her. Cartee claimed that DeMott con- ditioned Cartee’s return to work on the sub- mission of private medical records pertaining to her treatment for depression. Cartee said DeMott knew about the treatment because of their relationship. “Ms. Cartee was absolutely victimized by A Safe Place,” Cartee’s lawyer, Betty Tsamis, said. “It’s important for an organization and a company to understand that just because the two players are of the same sex that doesn’t make it any less illegal or any less offensive.” A Safe Place lawyer Brian Schwartz said Car- tee’s claims have no merit. “A Safe Place categorically denies the claims of discrimination made by Ms. Cartee,” he said. “In fact, A Safe Place’s denial is supported by the Aug. 8, 2011 EEOC dismissal of Ms. Cartee’s allegations. Ms. Cartee is a disgruntled former employee who voluntarily abandoned her job without any conduct by A Safe Place that indi- Betty Tsamis.

cussion on the Hall of Fame, it was said that if Advisory council’s responsibility transfers to the Friends of the Hall meeting looks of Fame, the Hall would not only continue to use the seal, but would continue to invite the mayor at changes to participate in functions. BY TULLY SATRE Among other matters, the council unanimously Mark (left) and Todd Wathen. Photo courtesy of Todd Wathen agreed to reissue two letters to city officials. One The City of Chicago Commission on Human Rela- letter—addressed to Superintendent Garry Mc- tions’ Advisory Council on LGBT issues held its Carthy of the Chicago Police Department (CPD)— monthly meeting Aug. 17 at City Hall, focusing draws attention to the council’s endorsement of tor did a fine job of not showing any bias or other jurisdictions where courts are evaluating on changes and adjustments. the Lakeview Action Coalition’s proposed gen- predisposed thinking. I know Mark and Todd of- similar cases. The council discussed recent changes imple- eral order on the treatment of transgender in- ten felt like they were in the hot-seat from the “The tide of public and legal opinion is turn- mented by Mayor Rahm Emanuel’s office. The dividuals. The proposition requests that the CPD investigator, but that is part of the process. We ing against those who use religion to deny LGBT mayor’s office opted to withdraw financial and implement standards for the fair and respectful always felt we were right, but it helped to have people constitutional and legal rights. This case in-kind staff support for heritage month events treatment of transgender individuals in light of someone in a position of legal authority send a has, unfortunately, been framed by respondents in addition to Chicago’s LGBT Hall of Fame, al- continued complaints about officers. message we interpreted as, ‘yes, you are right as a religious freedom and expression case when though there remains a commitment from the Another letter, re-issued to Corporation Coun- and now we need to let you take your case to be it is nothing more than a failure to comply with mayor to participate in the induction ceremony sel Stephen Patton, advocates for consistent lan- tried.’ well-settled law case. I respect every person’s (currently scheduled for Nov. 9 at the Chicago guage in Chicago’s nondiscrimination language “The recent developments are a step in the right to observe their chosen religion, but the History Museum). Other projects previously sup- used in contracts, leases and agreements to fall right direction. I have always felt there was a right to practice one’s religion cannot justify ported by Daley’s office that Emanuel’s budget in line with the Illinois Human Rights Act. violation of the public accommodations/services wholesale denial of the constitutional and legal cuts are affecting include the Pride Reception Despite a foggy future for the advisory council law and the finding of substantial evidence by rights of an entire class of citizens.” and the salute to LGBT veterans, both annual under the new regime, the council will continue [the] IDHR allows us to move this case along The attorney general’s office is still reviewing events. to move full speed ahead. expeditiously. We are grateful that [the] IDHR the case, according to the Chicago Sun-Times. A last-minute Hall of Fame meeting resulted worked hard, with its limited resources, to en- “I am thrilled for my clients and for the LGBT in a move forward with new inductions and an able Mark and Todd to take their case before a community,” Tsamis said. induction ceremony. However, there was still a Mayor to hold budget trier of fact.” question if the organization should break ties town halls Aug. 29, 31 with the advisory council in the interest of pre- Mayor Rahm Emanuel announced that he will serving the integrity and continuity of the Hall, lead two public town hall discussions with Chi- Town hall Women’s Equality Day mainly for financial and logistical purposes. If cagoans as an essential part of the process of with Cullerton, event Aug. 26 the Hall of Fame were to remain associated with developing the 2012 City budget proposal. Chicago will mark the 91st anniversary of the the city, for example, operations such as use of The events will take place Monday, Aug. 29, at Ann Williams Aug. 24 19th Amendment—which granted women the the Hall’s website—which is currently linked to Kennedy-King College, 6301 S. Halsted St., 6-8 State Sen. President John Cullerton and right to vote—with an event Friday, Aug. 26, the city—would be difficult to maneuver. p.m.; and Wed., Aug. 31 at Malcolm X College, state Rep. Ann Williams will host a town-hall 12-1 p.m., at Daley Plaza, 50 W. Washington. Among possible alternatives is having the 1900 W. Van Buren St., 6-8 p.m. meeting Wed., Aug. 24, at Bell School, 3730 N. There will be a rally and performances. Il- Friends of the Hall of Fame, a 501(c)(3) estab- Emanuel will take questions about the budget Oakley Ave., 6-8 p.m. linois Appellate Court Justice Joy V. Cunning- lished to provide a financial support system for from the assembled audience and address some There will be updates on legislation and the ham will be the keynote speaker. the Hall, take over operations and funding. De- ideas proposed by Chicagoans. FY12 budget. For more information, visit http://www. spite the budget cut from the mayor’s office, the Emanuel will deliver his budget proposal to the Call 773-880-9082 for more information. cityofchicago.org/humanrelations or call 312- Hall of Fame can use the city’s seal regardless of city council in October. 744-4111. the organization’s course of action. Although a motion was made to table the dis- WINDY CITY TIMES Aug. 24, 2011 11

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Saturday, September 2: cloSing cermony/Street Fair waveland between halsted & broadway, 4:00-10:00pm ($5 suggested donation for non-softball players & cmSa members) dJ bill bennett Final Say

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12 Aug. 24, 2011 WINDY CITY TIMES tions and that the charities could send civil on either side about religious or LGBT discrimi- union couples and unmarried people to other nation. He asked attorneys to focus on “prop- Court rules against foster care agencies. He further argued that the erty” issues and questioned Brejcha on whether state had ended its 40-year relationship with or not the charities had a right to the contracts. the charities without fair warning or an oppor- “Do you or do you not have a legally protected Catholic Charities in tunity to negotiate the contracts. property interest?” Schmidt asked. However, attorneys for the state said that the Brejcha said that licenses from the state charities had no right to contracts in the first which allowed the charities to carry out foster place, and that it would be illegal for the state care work were a property interest. Attorneys for foster-care case to offer contracts that violated civil union law. the state said that such licenses do not guar- “The state has the freedom to set the limits antee contracts and that the charities were not BY KATE SOSIN of its contracts,” said Deborah Barnes, an at- being forced to participate now that the law has torney with the Office of the Attorney General. changed. In a decision applauded by many LGBT activists, “It wasn’t arbitrary and capricious, the ending of The attorney general’s office, which was named a circuit court judge ruled Aug. 18 against four this 40-year relationship… the legal landscape in the suit, praised Scmidt’s ruling. Catholic charities that sued the state for the has changed.” “The judge’s decision will insure that the state right to continue foster care services while re- Also arguing against the charities was the laws will be followed and will allow the state to fusing to place children with same-sex couples. American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), which continue to focus on what is best for children Judge John Schmidt ruled that the state did was granted the right to intervene in the suit on in the foster care system,” said Robyn Ziegler, a not violate the rights of charities in Peoria, Bel- behalf of a lesbian and children who are wards spokesperson for the attorney general’s office. leville, Springfield and Joliet when The Depart- of the state. The ACLU also applauded the decision in a ment of Children and Family Services (DCFS) Karen Sheley, a lawyer with the ACLU said press release. denied the charities foster care contracts. The that a refusal to place children with same-sex “Lesbian and gay youth form a large part of state denied the contracts because the charities civil union partners would harm LGBT children the youth in DCFS custody,” said John Knight, refused to place children with unmarried people in foster care and discourage LGBT couples from LGBT project director for the ACLU of Illinois. and civil union couples. becoming foster parents. “It’s hard to imagine anything more harmful Schmidt issued the judgment just a day after “When they send [a case] to another agency, than the message a policy of discrimination in the two sides faced off in crowded Sangamon it doesn’t solve the problem,” she said. “It’s still foster care placement sends them: Because you County courtroom Aug. 17. discrimination.” are gay, you will never be qualified to parent “The fact that the Plaintiffs have contracted Schmidt, however, declined to hear arguments children.” with the State to provide foster care and adoption services for over forty years does not vest the Plaintiffs with a protected property interest,” Schmidt wrote in the judgment. “The State may refuse to renew the Plaintfiffs’ contracts.” The charities had claimed that the DCFS deci- John Knight of the ACLU. Photo by Jay sion not to renew contracts was illegal under Geneske Ms. Ruff-n- religious freedom protections and argued that Stuff at Lovefest they have a right to continue foster care work The charities filed suit in June, after the Il- in 2009. without compromising religious practice. linois Religious Freedom Protection and Civil Photo by “We believe that we do comply [with the Union Act went into effect, granting the same Hana law] because there is an exemption there,” said legal rights to same-sex couples in civil unions Anderson Thomas Brejcha, an attorney for the four chari- as married couples. ties. “To say that somehow our entities are the Brejcha said that language in the civil union same as non-sectarian agencies is to say that act made an exception for religious organiza- alpha is the same as omega.” EuropEan Luxury Within rEach

ganization’s June 3 ceremony—Wed., Aug. 31, ‘Lovefest’ Aug. 28 5:30-9 p.m. at The Joynt, 650 N. Dearborn. at Jackson Park The couples Jayson Bernard & Roberto Rosa- The Chicago Black Gay Men’s Caucus (CBGMC) rio and Erica & Vanessa Feliciano will be fea- will host the 7th Annual Lovefest Celebration tured. A short program will take place at 6:30 on Sunday, Aug. 28, 12–8 p.m., at Jackson p.m. Park (63rd & Cornell Drive). A free event, Tickets (“Roommates” level) are $50 each; Lovefest is designed to bring together the Af- there are also “domestic partnership” ($250 rican-American LGBT community, particularly host), “civil union” ($500 sponsor) and “mar- gay and bisexual men, to bring awareness to riage” ($1,000 chair) levels. health and wellness management. Purchase tickets at http://tinyurl.com/ Sponsored by Vertex Sciences and the Chi- civilizedcelebration. Send checks to The Civil cago Department of Public Health, well-known Rights Agenda, 2129 N. Western Ave., Chicago, female impersonator Ms. Ruff n’ Stuff will host Ill., 60647. For more info, email Mia@miaphi- the event. There will also be food vendors; fer.com or call 773-398-6986. special performances by some of Chicago’s best entertainers; youth performances; card tournaments; volleyball tournaments; and a mini-ball Chicago Ideas Week competition. Oct. 10-16 The highlight of Lovefest is the Healthy is Chicago Ideas Week (CIW), together with Sexy (H.I.S) Health Village, where event pa- Mayor Rahm Emanuel, has announced thought EuroLuxE trons can get rapid testing for HIV/AIDS and leaders and innovators set to speak at the in- other STIs; have access to highly skilled medi- augural seven-day public platform of ideas and interiors cal professionals ;and receive vital information innovation, to be held Oct. 10-16. to help manage their health. Events and speakers will vary, from a discus- There is a kick-off reception Thursday, Aug. sion on the creative process including director 25, at 6 p.m. at Club Escape, 1530 E. 75th Anna Shapiro and actress Joan Cusack, to a St. RSVP at [email protected]. For conversation on education with Justice Sandra more information about Lovefest, contact CB- Day O’Connor, the first female member of the 3066 n. LincoLn avE. GMC at [email protected] or visit U.S. Supreme Court. Speaking on health and http://www.chiblackgaucaucus.org. wellness are health activist and uterine cancer chicago survivor Fran Drescher, in addition to Emmy- ‘Civilized award winning CNN chief medical correspon- dent, Dr. Sanjay Gupta. Celebrations’ Other slated speakers include David Gregory, moderator of NBC’s Meet the Press; director/ 773-270-0030 Aug. 31 at The Joynt producer Tom Shadyac; and others. The Civil Rights Agenda will hold its first in Tickets start at $15 each; visit http://www. a series of “Civilized Celebrations”—honoring chicagoideas.com. www.euroluxeinteriors.com those who were joined in civil unions at the or- WINDY CITY TIMES Aug. 24, 2011 13 ceives more attention in the future. “We don’t really look at what causes home- Confab focuses on lessness among LGBT youth, and we don’t address that,” he said. “Homelessness prevention is a very nuanced conversation, and it’s one that homeless LGBT youth needs to be placed higher on our agenda right By ERICA DEMAREST and profanities to become more accustomed to now. The issue of homelessness feels so daunt- what they might hear working with youth. ing that we think about it from a treatment mo- Service providers from across the Midwest gath- Local organizations represented in the audi- dality. We don’t think about it from a prevention ered Aug. 16 in the DePaul University Loop Stu- ence included: the Center on Halsted, Amigas stance.” dent Center for an all-day conference and train- Latinas, UCAN-LGBTQ Home Host Program, Chi- ing session focused on better addressing the cago Public Schools, The CORE Center, Thresh- needs of homeless LGBT youth. olds, the Heartland Alliance and the Cook Coun- Rainbow Social The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Ser- try Health and Hospital System. Aug. 26 at UIC vices Administration (SAMHSA), the Homeless- “Often times what happens in social services, The University of Illinois at Chicago’s Gender ness Resource Center and the Howard Brown is that services or programs or organizations get & Sexuality Center (GSC) will hold its annual Health Center presented the event, which was very siloed,” Hollendoner said. “You have X or- Rainbow Social Friday, Aug. 26, 11 a.m.-1 p.m., the second stop in a four-city tour that includes ganization here that does homeless work. You in rooms 181 and 183 of the Behavioral Sciences visits to New York, Florida and Arizona. Staff have Y organization here that does LGBT work. Building, 1007 W. Harrison. from successful programs throughout the Unit- And here’s another organization that does youth The Rainbow Social welcomes new and returned States presented their methodologies and work. And there have never really been opportu- ing UIC students, faculty, staff, alumni, and shared ideas. nities for intersection. What’s really exciting is community members to the GSC. “The federal government is taking a really ac- coalescing all these different service providers Established in 1995, the GSC provides or fa- tive look at the issue of LGBT young people ex- together to say, ‘Hey, we all have a stake in this cilitates LGBTQA education, outreach, research periencing homelessness,” said Joe Hollendoner, issue, and we all are part of the solution with and support to everyone to eliminate fear and chief program officer at Howard Brown. “[It’s it.” prejudice on campus and beyond. For more in- a] phenomenon across the nation, and the best Hollendoner said he was excited to see the Joe Hollendoner. Photo courtesy of Hollen- formation, visit http://www.gsc.uic.edu. practices that are developed in places like New reactions and ideas presented during the con- doner York or here in Chicago should be adapted to ference, but hopes homelessness prevention re- other communities as well.” It’s estimated that as many as 1.6 million un- accompanied youth (ages 12 to 17) experience homelessness in the United States each year, according to data from SAMHSA. Of these, an estimated 20 to 40 percent identify as LGBT. Many of these young people are disowned when they come out, others leave abusive homes or foster care, and still others seek out more accepting environments. Understanding the diversity of the home- MY PASSION IS less queer population is the key to helping the CREATING THE youth, said speaker Wayne Centrone, president EXPERIENCE. and executive director of Health Bridges Inter- national. “The numbers are made up of people, and people have complex lives. Homelessness is complex in and of itself. It’s not just about housing.” Jama Shelton, director of housing at the Ali Forney Center (New York City’s LGBT-specific homeless youth shelter), said trauma must also be addressed. “All LGBTQ youth are exposed to trauma and violence by the very nature of their identity in this society,” she said. “To exist within that context is traumatic, and the experience of homelessness is also traumatic.” Many LGBT youth are re-traumatized when they seek services, Shelton said. Common problems youth face include: having to educate providers about their identities, encountering close-minded staff and worrying about gendered bathroom situations. Healthcare providers have traditionally believed that brain development stops during ado- lescence, Shelton said. New research, however, suggests that brain development continues well into one’s 30s. Those who are traumatized often become wired differently, she said. Repeated NOW ENROLLING trauma can negatively impact how youth express Fall Term Starts October 5 emotions, engage in interpersonal relationships and view their own self-worth. Where will your passion take you? Employing strength-based practices was Whether your world is Business, Culinary Arts, Education or a popular solution presented at the confer- Hospitality Management, Kendall College is where your passion ence, titled “Creating Communities for Change: can become your profession. Best Practices for Serving LGBTQI2-S Homeless • Learn about exciting industry careers Youth”. In a strength-based model, providers fo- • Tour our contemporary downtown campus and check out our cus on a client’s talents or successes rather than first-rate facilities and kitchens highlight what needs to be fixed. • Enjoy lunch prepared by Kendall culinary students “[It] requires a shift in the framework,” Shel- • Ask questions about financial aid, housing, scholarships and more ton said. “You don’t look at a situation and say, ‘What’s wrong here? What’s the problem here?’ Learn More Today! Rather, you look and say, ‘What’s going right?’ DiscoverKendallCollege.com And that’s a completely different idea than what 866.463.9648 I was taught… but all people have a capacity for growth and change.” Throughout the day, audience members were asked to engage in brainstorming activities. Find information on costs, occupation types, 900 N. North Branch Pairs teamed up to practice strength-focused completion rates and median loan debt for these programs at kendall.edu/programdata. Chicago, IL 60642 dialogue. Groups analyzed transcripts of client- provider conversations to suggest improve- BUSINESS. CULINARY ARTS. EDUCATION. HOSPITALITY MANAGEMENT. ments. The entire room practiced using slang 14 Aug. 24, 2011 WINDY CITY TIMES Tagalog word for aunt, after they give him toys. Demetria added: “The fear of not being ap- All laugh. proved [by others] is something that I have Local gay couple The joy, though, is coupled with slight fears overcome in the past. In fact, just being a par- that Walker and Demetria have for whatever is- ent brought me closer to intrepidity and fear- sues Liam may ultimately endure. lessness. I really think that when people realize embraces parenthood “Maybe we are naive to some extent, but, we that [gay parents] are no different from straight think and hope that he will not have to deal parents who provide a good, loving and nurtur- By Ross Forman them decided to move to Chicago. I started with [same-sex parents] as an issue as he grows ing environment, they really don’t care if we are about 10 years ago looking into my [adoption] up, especially since we live in Lakeview,” Walker gay and eventually will appreciate us more.” Partners Brian Walker and Mike Demetria spent options, and that [thought] was reinforced said. “So far, we haven’t had any issues—at the Their new family has also been complicated their first Father’s Day in Las Vegas, along with when Brian and I started to talk about it,” after stores, the parks, anywhere.” by being an interracial relationship, hence, “we Walker’s mom and sister. They enjoyed the vast we began dating. In fact, on a recent flight, Walker was sitting have had to continually learn about our differ- array of food and fun, and all the over-the-top Walker is the assistant dean (graduate busi- next to a woman who asked about Liam. Walker ent cultural backgrounds,” Demetria said. sites of Sin City. ness programs) at Roosevelt University. Deme- told her his family story, and all she wanted to “We are not trailblazers. ... There have been They also opened their first Father’s Day pres- tria is a doctor at Stroger Hospital. They met in a talk about was Liam and her three kids. “She gay parents all along,” Walker said. “We are ac- ents. Chicago at a fundraising event, although Walker didn’t care one bit that we were gay,” Walker tually learning a lot from other gay and straight Their son, Liam, officially adopted in April was living in Houston at the time. said. friends who are experienced as parents. Raising from the Philippines, made Walker and Deme- “We went from a being a couple ... to being a “I think my greatest concern with being a par- a child is not a gay or straight thing. ... It’s a tria close their eyes—and then he formally pre- family,” Walker said, teary eyed. “We both have ent now has more to do with my age, now that human thing.” sented them with drawings he had made, though busy careers and social lives, but now things I’m fortysomething.” they looked more like scribbles. take on a different perspective. Obviously a lot However, they were filled with love. of focus is now on Liam and adapting to him.” “Over the years, I have been an uncle, and had According to Demetria, “Our priorities have many college friends who went on to have fami- changed, mostly directed now to Liam and his lies,” Walker said. “All along, everyone would say future. Despite all the adoption education class- that I would make a good dad. It was always es I have attended, I learned early on that there nice to hear, but I never could understand how is really no recipe for good parenting and it defi- they could say that having only seen me with nitely is not an easy task. You have to provide their kids for short periods of time. Now that I the core ingredients—love, care and support, am a parent for real, I hope they are right. All and be a good example to [kids] because they of the self-confidence you have is always coun- are very smart and are natural mimics.” tered by the self-doubt about whether you are Both said the LGBT community has been over- doing things right or not.” whelming supportive of their newly formed fam- Demetria added, “I have always envisioned ily, and the love shown Liam has been non-stop. being a dad, someday, but honestly, I almost “Some people have asked about what it’s gave up on the idea until we received [the] unlike to raise a child who is adopted rather than expected news from my family, which was the yours from inception,” Walker said. “Some peo- opportunity to adopt Liam. “ ple aren’t sure if they could do it if it wasn’t That came several years ago. Liam is Mike’s ‘theirs.’ This is a good question, but one easily grandnephew. He was born July 4, 2008. answered: If you love the child, it seems that “We had talked about raising a child from instincts take over. He is here and you are re- early on [while dating], and had talked about sponsible. Beyond the basics of loving and car- it regularly ever since,” said Walker, who has ing, he needs guidance and support in learning been dating Demetria for nine years. They live and growing. A child doesn’t have to be from my in Lakeview. blood for me to love him and raise him.” “I have always been close to my nieces and Liam has taken to calling Demetria “Dada” and nephews, 30-plus of them,” Demetria said. “They Walker “Papa.” Liam has even started calling ‘Up on the Roof’ last year. Photo by Steve Starr always enjoy visiting their uncles and some of some of Demetria’s sisters “Number 1 tita,” the

Office of the Clerk of the Circuit Court to em- TPAN’s power individuals with the tools necessary to ‘Up on the Roof’ do that.” Adults with criminal records should bring Aug. 25 at MDA their rap sheets (criminal record) to the semi- HIV/AIDS agency Test Positive Aware Net- nar. If there is an arrest on the rap sheet but work will present “Up on the Roof” atop the no criminal case disposition, then a criminal 24-story MDA Apartment building, 63 E. Lake, case disposition must also be obtained. on Thursday, Aug. 25, 5:30-8:30 p.m. Reservations are necessary to attend. RSVP Guests will be treated to gourmet barbeque by Friday, Aug. 19, to 773-472-6469 or legal@ creations by The Bristol’s Chris Pandel; Joncarl centeronhalsted.org. Lachman and David Cooper of HB Home Bistro; and Jared Van Camp of Old Town Social. Pasto- ral Artisan Cheese, Bread and Wine will provide ‘Dance’ Aug. 27 more treats, with Sweet Margy, Salted Caramel, Rich Chocolates and DAS Caramellini offering at Hydrate desserts. Spotlite Theatrix Productions will present Admission is $125 per person; call Billy “Dance ‘til the World Ends” at Hydrate Night- Surber at 773-989-9400, ext. 235, or visit club, 3458 N. Halsted St., on Saturday, Aug. http://www.tpan.com. 27, at 9 p.m. There will be a song-and-dance cabaret show to benefit ArtReach Educational Theatre Clerk, Center hosting program and provide scholarships and funding for arts programs in the Chicagoland area. expungement There will also be raffles and prizes. See http://www.HydrateChicago.com or seminar Aug. 25 http://www.ArtReachSpotlite.com/spotlite. Dorothy Brown, clerk of the Circuit Court of Cook County, and the Center of Halsted will host an adult expungement and sealing semi- ALMA picnic Aug. 28 nar at Center on Halsted, 3656 N. Halsted, The Association of Latino Men for Action Thursday, Aug. 25; registration begins at 5 (ALMA) will hold a picnic Sunday, Aug. 28, p.m. 12-5 p.m. at Hollywood Beach. Attorneys on site will assist whether partici- The beach is just off the Bryn Mawr exit from pants are eligible for expungement or record Lake Shore Drive. A suggested donation of $10 sealing and how to clear their adult criminal lets attendees enjoy snacks, desserts and non- record in Cook County. alcoholic beverages served by Rave Review “We all deserve an opportunity to become Catering. Among the scheduled activities are a productive member of the community,” said bocci, volleyball, badminton and dancing. Center on Halsted CEO Modesto “Tico” Valle in See http://www.almachicago.org. a press release. “We’re glad to work with the From left: Brian Walker, son Liam and Mike Demetria. Photo courtesy of the couple 15 Aug. 24, 2011 WINDY CITY TIMES ‘Pitch a Tent’ has women helping animal foundation By Ross Forman Entertainment will include karaoke by Sue Heggeland on Saturday night, Sept. 3, and Katie The inaugural “Pitch a Tent to Save a Pooch” Kirby will DJ Sunday night, Sept. 4. camping trip is set for Sept. 2-5, as about 250 “Everyone will be able to find things to do, are expected—primarily from the lesbian com- make new friends in a safe, beautiful nature munity—for the holiday weekend get-together backdrop, all while helping raise funds for the to aid the Windy City Animal Foundation (WCAF). animals, and also benefiting LCCP and [the web- The event is being held at a full-range campsite] The L Stop,” Hamilton said. “The idea over- site southwest of Aurora, complete with show- all is to maintain a calendar of ongoing women’s ers, toilets, electricity, running water and free events which will enrich our community as a Wi-Fi. Firewood and a food market are nearby, whole.” and the campsite allows alcohol, dogs and kids. Hamilton said there are 125 tent spaces avail- “This idea [for this camping trip] came from able. a variety of places, and each time it was dis- “This is mostly a women’s event, with children cussed with friends in different circles, the idea and dogs also invited,” Hamilton said. “All ages was inspired and grew more and more,” said are welcome and encouraged to join us.” the opportunity to participate in while in the band at check-in to indicate their relationship event leader Samantha Hamilton. “Carrie Henry The campground is sectioned, so there will be city. We hope to provide a safe, secure environ- status: single and looking; in a relationship; and and Angel Santoro helped find the perfect place an area for families to camp in a selected area ment for campers to enjoy themselves; that’s those who would rather not be identified either for our community to camp, and Alisha Valente and then be able to meet other moms and kids, one of the reasons why each participant must way. wanted to be the voice for the animals. Hamilton said: “So far, we have reservations for contact us directly for the campsite location. “I think it is very important to donate to a “The idea of bringing together the women’s many sports members [from the] Chicago Metro- Kathy Caldwell and Jan Schmidt have volun- worthy charity when our community comes to- community for a camping trip grew into an ex- politan Sports Association (CMSA), along with teered to oversee security. We really want there gether like this,” Hamilton said. “Windy City travagant weekend that will, hopefully, provide WCAF volunteers and dog adopters, doctors, to be something for everyone to enjoy, from Animal Foundation works 365 days a year to fun events for all types of women. There will be educators, social workers—women with all sorts singles events, to dog events, to kids crafts and help cats and dogs, and we are working hard to events for those who enjoy team sports, fish- of careers and lifestyles. activities. We are hoping to enrich and extend continue our philanthropic efforts, giving funds ing, cooking, poker, board games, tarot cards “We hope to bring people together from the our women’s community.” to help them expand their work. All proceeds and knitting—and also [events] for women with women’s community for a great cause and a lot Hamilton, 39, who lives on Chicago’s North- after expenses will be donated to WCAF in the children.” of fun, outdoor activities we don’t normally have west Side, said attendees will receive a wrist- form of a check on Monday evening, Sept. 5. “There will be opportunities to mingle with volunteers and board members [from WCAF] throughout the weekend, so camp participants may learn more about how to help with foster- ing, adopting, or volunteering themselves after the camping trip is over. We also have welcomed other charitable organizations which will be managing specific events and working in booths during the weekend.” The weekend activities include a flag-football tournament and the Tranny Dog Dress-up event. There also will be poker tournaments, fishing contests and more. Each person must bring his or her own tent, supplies, beverages and food. “We encourage new campers to ask experienced ones for additional advise or to search online to find a good packing checklist,” Hamilton said. First-aid kits and individuals with first-aid knowledge for humans and dogs will be on site to assist in health emergencies. What about men? “Men are welcome [to attend], but [they] must bring a furry friend … and not a bear,” Hamilton said, laughing. For more information, contact Hamilton a: [email protected] or by phone at 708-436-0031. More information is also available at http:// i63.photobucket.com/albums/h133/get- The campsite for Pitch a Tent. Photos by Sam Hamilton samart/WindyCityTimes_Camping.jpg.

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See updated daily coverage at: 4840 N. MARINE DRIVE http://www.windycitymediagroup.com/series CHICAGO, IL 60640 1-800-888-0560 During the World Series www.chicagolakeshorehospital.com Aug. 29-Sept. 4 16 Aug. 24, 2011 WINDY CITY TIMES LOCAL HISTORY a long line of “women” the widow identified as ‘her’ trailing draperies [skirts] and tossed back the murderer. over ‘her’ shoulder a mellow, defiant baritone The police hauled Frances to the Hyde Park assertion: ‘Believe me, I don’t know a damned station for processing. They also took the other thing about this mess. You help me and I’ll help three persons who’d been in the apartment to you. We’ll go through the dope joints and we’ll Chicago’s keep her company: her husband, Frank Carrick; get the girl who killed Tesmer.” The police didn’t her wife, Marie; and a “‘pal,’” Anthony Kushar, take her up on her offer. whose real relationship to the other three was To keep boredom at bay while lawyers select- unclear. It was quite the dragnet. ed the jury, Frances “winked coquettishly at the ‘Man-Girl’ trial At the station, the police immediately found men” but “ignored the women.” She loved to themselves in a quandary. Frances’ five-o’clock strike a pose for photographers, too. BY JIM ELLEDGE them, and Frances returned to prostitution. shadow was not just showing, but was promi- Throughout the trial, which began Oct. 1, no Jealous of Frances’ many male admirers— nent, and they couldn’t decide whether to lock one was quit sure which pronoun to use when “‘Fred dressed like a woman most of the time,’” her up with the men or the women. They called referring to Freddie-Frances, as the gumshoes Marie recalled, “‘and gee, I hated to see him in two doctors, Clara Seippel of the Morals Court called the “man-girl,” another term reporters step out with other gents”—Marie began taking and David J. Jones, City Physician, to examine adopted for her. Making matters even more pe- it out on Frank, fighting with him every chance their prisoner. Both agreed: Frances was a man. culiar, Frances had quickly become a cause célè- she got. Not to be outdone by a woman, Frank At first, Frances claimed to have been sympa- bre. Chief among her admirers were heterosexual fought back. After months of it, Marie turned thetic to Mrs. Tesmer’s loss. “When I saw her,” women and men who were of the “‘cake eating to heroine for solace as Frank had years earlier, she said, “I felt sorry for her. Honest, I wanted type,’” as a reporter from the Chicago Daily News and then after getting hooked, she decided to to put my arms around her,” but her sympathy called the queer men in the audience. Frances quit cold turkey. She went home to her family in quickly waned. “‘That woman’s crazy,’” she later had become a Towertown sensation. Detroit. said. “‘I can beat the game….’” Then she added, Frances’ fate depended on whether or not the While trying to kick the habit at a local hospi- “‘She already identified four or five girls. And all-male jury believed her or Mrs. Tesmer. Mrs. tal, Marie developed blood poisoning and near- she said she was waiting for blue eyes. Mine are Tesmer had testified that the killer was a twen- ly died. But her family contacted Frances and grey.’” Besides, Frances had an alibi. She was at ty-year-old, blue-eyed blonde who had been begged her to come to Detroit and nurse their home the night Richard Tesmer was murdered, ill dressed in a brown dress and floppy hat, but child back to health. She did. from drinking tainted moonshine. Frances hennaed her hair, had gray eyes, and Jim Elledge. Then at around 11 p.m. on Tuesday, June 5, From the beginning, Frances was confident was thirty-five. As one reporter reminded his 1923, Richard and Anna Tesmer were robbed that the police wouldn’t be able to pin the mur- readers, “‘Mrs. Carrick’ didn’t have light hair, but at gunpoint by a male and female couple. The der on her, but she stated from her jail cell her a streaked henna bob. No one has been able to Fred G. Thompson was born in 1888 in Tesmers were parking their Durant in the alley first night there, “‘faint heart n’er won fair lady, discover that ‘she’ ever had a brown dress. In Youngstown, Ohio, but raised on a farm near Co- behind their home at 5835 Winthrop when the and I’m gonna fight.’” Then Frances “smoothed ‘her’ collection of fifteen hats there is no poke lumbus. Adopted as a youngster, his home life couple mugged them and, in the process, the ‘her’ henna bob, deepened the mascarole un- bonnet. ‘Her’ eyes are more gray than blue. And was terrible, and he ran away to Columbus to woman shot Mr. Tesmer, a “wealthy insurance der ‘her’ gimlet eyes of blue-grey, and traced the ‘girl with the smile’ is a man, one who mas- work as a bellboy in a hotel there, and after man.” He died from his wounds shortly thereaf- a crimson cupid’s bow about ‘her’ wide-spread queraded for eighteen years in woman’s silks.” saving as much money as he could, he left for ter. mouth.” As the officer turned the key in the When the police searched her apartment, they Chicago a few months later. Asked what he’d Mrs. Tesmer claimed to have seen the woman’s cell lock, Frances “rubbed stubby fingers over didn’t find a brown dress or a floppy hat. Worst done to survive on Chicago’s streets, he replied, face clearly in the nanosecond of light given a chin smeared with rouge and whiskers” and of all, the widow had “‘already identified four or “‘I’d hate to tell you.” The truth of the matter off by the pistol blast. She described the gun- grumbled, “Hell, I wish they’d give me a safety five girls’” as the murderer before calling Frances was that he became a prostitute: “‘A week … in wielding, twentysomething-year-old woman as razor an a shot of gin.” the killer. a boy’s suit alternated with months of living in having blue eyes and light hair, of wearing a As the police continued their investigation Frances’ lawyer, Frank McDonnell, called Fran- girl’s skirts.” He called himself “Frances.” Chica- brown dress and a floppy hat. She and her side- over the next few weeks, they questioned Fran- ces’ husband to the stand. After being sworn in, go police often arrested her on morals charges. kick left the scene of the crime with nearly $25 ces’ husband, Frank, and her neighbors. Frank McDonnell asked Carrick if he and Frances had On May 23, 1912, she legally married Frank in their pockets. “‘I’ll never forget that smile,’” Carrick was a “tiny, anemic, wild eyed man,” been married, and when he said they had, Judge Carrick, a junkie, in Crown Point, Ind. Frank Mrs. Tesmer “repeated over and over … as the “timid and jumpy,” and “Questioned frequently John Caverly interrupted the trial, told Carrick claimed not to have known she was a biologi- police brought suspects before her.” According … regarding his connection with the murder not to speak another word, and dismissed him. cal male until many months later, although he to Mrs. Tesmer, the murderer had “an evil, leer- …, the stupefied auto mechanic squirmed and Carrick had been exempted from testifying be- admitted, too, that he didn’t care that she was ing, satanic grin.” twisted in his chair, but said nothing. Occasion- cause “‘the fact that Thompson was a man did a he. By 1915, Frances had become so success- Mrs. Tesmer never noticed the male accom- ally he would cough dryly. Sometimes he trem- not affect his status as a wife,’” and the judge ful at her profession that she managed her own plice’s face. bled and started at imaginary sounds.” Frank “held that the fact that Thompson is a man did “disorderly house,” a euphemism for a bordello, For several weeks, police rounded up women, called himself an automobile mechanic, but he not affect his status as a wife, insofar as inter- which was two adjacent apartments in a build- most of whom had records or were somehow couldn’t remember the names of any of his em- pretation of the law is concerned.” Amazingly, ing at Erie and LaSalle in Towertown, a neigh- tied to the underworld, hopeful that Mrs. Tesmer ployers for the past three years. not only did the court legally acknowledge a borhood in what is now known as the Gold Coast would identify one as the murderer. She did. She All of Frances’ neighbors swore that she was a same-sex marriage but gave the same-sex couple that served as Chicago’s north side epicenter of pointed her finger at all of the suspects, claim- biological woman, although they also had occa- the same rights as opposite-sex married couples queer life. ing each was the culprit. The first were Gertrude sionally noticed a hint of a beard on her cheeks. had. One reporter called the judge’s decision Frances was also a singer and had performed Getson, a “paroled flapper bandit,” Anna Sen- When questioned by the police, one of Frances’ “precedent-making.” “at the Erie [Café], the Athenia [Inn], and others back, Marge Bennett, and the wife of gangster neighbors, Mrs. Della Thiele, who had no doubt The next day, McDonnell called Frances to the on North Clark,” including McGovern’s Saloon, as Earl Dear. All were released when their alibis that Frances was female, said, “It’ll take me a stand. Through a gale of alligator tears, she told well as at two amusement parks, “Riverview and panned out. long time to listen to that racket about her be- the story of her life, explaining how, as a child … Forest Park.” Rumor had it that she had once Then police took Bertha Schillo, manicurist ing a man.” She was just as convinced by Fran- on the farm, she was ashamed of her obvious performed as “May Belmont, comedienne and Peggy Le Beaux, an actress who was reputed to ces’ innocence in the Termer murder and couldn’t difference from the other boys. She described dancer” briefly in Syracuse, NY. The police knew have been a drug addict, Corinne Gillispie Laf- imagine Frances being involved with any crimi- her life in Chicago, including her two marriag- her as “‘Nanny White,’” when she was the madam ferty, wife of a man serving time in Joliet, and nal activity. “We’d ‘a’ known it if she was up to es—one to a man, one to a woman. Her sobs of “a place at 43 N. Dearborn.” eighteen-year-old Margaret Ryan into custody. that kinda stuff,” Mrs. Thiele said. became so infectious that her fans in the court- In 1920, Frances was introduced to Marie Clark They, too, had air-tight alibis and were released. In the meantime, Frances had become a hot room sobbed, too. by another madam, Helen Williams, and Marie Finally, a man “whose name police would not item in the news and was dubbed “the creature Then the jury was led away to deliberate Fran- took an immediate liking to Frances, “whom she disclose” and who had “been masquerading as with the duplex psychology”—a phrase suggest- ces’ fate, and after only two hours, it returned thought “a wonderful girl.’” Frances and Marie a woman the night Tesmer was killed was ques- ing another one that was common in the medi- with a not-guilty verdict and pandemonium looked so much alike they could’ve passed for tioned the night of June 14. He was released, cal literature of the time, “psychic hermaph- broke out. Women and gay men in the audi- sisters. Noting Marie’s attraction to Frances, too. rodites,” a label for effeminate, cross-dressing ence rushed Frances to congratulate her, as she Helen told Marie that Frances was really Fred, Reacting to a “hot tip,” police raided Frances’s queer men. Initially, she was allowed to wear leaped up on the rail of the jury box and shook but Marie fell in love with him anyway. They be- apartment the morning of June 19. They arrived women’s clothing in her cell and in court, but hands with the jurors.” A witness reported, “bai- gan to date. “‘We went together for a couple in full force, knocked on her door, and when when she was transferred from the police lockup liffs rushed here and there through the densely of months. He wore girl’s clothes, swell ones, she answered it, arrested her. She responded by to the country jail to await her trial, the warden packed crowd shouting for order, and engaged in too, most of the time,’” Marie later recalled. The “kicking, screaming oaths, and shouting boasts” demanded that she dress in male clothing. a few skirmishes with spectators.” Rev. G.C. Prince legally married the two Jan. 27, until they stripped her of the kimono she was While behind bars, Frances was quite vocal, On the courthouse steps a few minutes 1921 at Moody Bible Institute. Frances showed wearing and “bundled [her] into a blue frock and and reporters ate it up. “Half in whimsy, half later, Frances spoke to reporters, concluding up as Fred, wearing a suit. Frances/Fred was not green hat” for the ride to Mrs. Tesmer’s home. in seriousness, the man in woman’s clothes … that “‘Everybody’s been swell to me—but, my only queer and a prostitute but now also a biga- The police posed Frances with a pistol in front discussed the possibility of writing a book,” a goodness!—I’ll be glad to get some hair pins!’” mist. of the widow. It wobbled in her “grip.” “I ain’t reporter noted. “‘I’d tell a few things,’” Frances It was a message to all gay men who were The two left Frank and moved to Elmhurst, ever had a gun in my hand,” Frances explained, admitted. “‘A lot of prominent guys right in this there on the courthouse steps with her or who where they bought land and began to farm and but true to form, Mrs. Tesmer pointed her fin- city will die when they hear about me being a would read her good-bye in the newspapers the where Frances lived as Fred. After five months ger at the police’s latest suspect and, in a near man.’” Then when “Asked if many of ‘her’ friends next day. At the time, to “drop hair pins” was tilling the soil, they changed their minds about swoon, shouted, “‘My God! That is the girl who were prominent men,” she replied, ‘Say, do you a phrase common in the gay subculture that living off the land. Besides, Frances had had it murdered my husband. I can never forget those think I’m such a poor fish that I’d stop for the meant to reveal one’s sexual orientation to oth- with being Fred. They moved back to Towertown. eyes and that smile. There is no doubt of it. I’ll small guys if I could make the big ones?’” Frank heard Frances was back and showed up never forget the look on her face. Lock her up. Turn to page 28 Frustrated behind bars, Frances even volun- on their doorstep. She let him to move in with She can’t lie out of this.’” Frances was the last in teered to help the authorities, “Freddy swished WINDY CITY TIMES Aug. 24, 2011 17 a GAYin the LIFE Lieutenant, Illinois State Police Text and PHOTOS Joe Micci BY Ross Forman

The two large, framed, autographed photos in Joe Micci’s third-floor apartment are a strong tie to the area’s LGBT roots and strongly tied within his current career. Each black-and-white photo was personally signed to Micci and his partner by Tillie, a former female impersonator. “Tillie hated the term ‘drag queen,’” said Micci, who knew that Tillie performed at The Chesterfield Lounge in Chesterfield, Ind. in the 1950s, among other spots, during an era when female impersonators were not popular or even accepted by many. Micci and Tillie, separated in age by about 40 years, met at Roscoe’s in 2005 when Tillie was already about 82 or 83. Tillie had a select bar stool, where she’d always sit, along with her own glass that she brought from home to drink from— and even a fiber optic straw that looked like a penis. “Tillie was one of those ladies who didn’t like to ask for help, even if she truly needed it,” Micci said. “She was brusque and had a mouth like a truck driver if you riled her. I learned very quickly to refer to him as her and to never use the term ‘drag queen.’ For some reason, we just hit it off and she always liked and trusted me.” Thus, Micci always walked Tillie out of Roscoe’s and made sure she got into a cab safely. “Tillie was like a piece of history and, to be honest, I was happy and honored that she let me into her life, that she let Have your me help her. I guess that’s the policeman in me coming out.” the stats Micci has been with the Illinois State premiums Police for 26 years and now works in its Name criminal investigations division—and he increased Joe Micci sports a tie and starched, long-sleeve shirt on a daily basis at his north suburban office. recently? Age “There were a lot of people in the gay community who didn’t know I was a policeman,” said Micci, 49 who used to live in Lakeview and is now a member of the Gay Officers Action League (GOAL) and he even rode on the group’s float—in police uniform—in the 2010 Gay Pride Parade. See me: Relationship status Micci said he has never had a negative experience at work, based on his sexual orientation, nor Charles T. Rhodes, Domestic partners with his affection for playing loud dance music in his office. In fact, many of his colleagues are par- Agent ticularly careful to make sure others also are respectful of the gay community, or anyone making Randall McGee anti-gay statements or jokes. 2472 N. Clark Many of Micci’s LGBT friends who know of his profession often ask for advice on potential police 773.281.0890 Neighborhood State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company matters, he said. (not in NJ) Regarding what some perceive as Lakeview’s State Farm Indemnity Company (NJ) Rogers Park Home Offices: Bloomington, Illinois crime wave, Micci said, “Every neighborhood has Hobbies trouble, some more than others. What’s happen- Bicycling, photography, reading, ing now in Lakeview is that several crimes [have going to the beach occurred] in a short period of time—and many Friday, Aug. 26 [Lakeview residents and regulars] are not accus- 7:30 p.m. Sports tomed to that. There have been various reactions Lucrecia Guerrero [to the crimes] from people who are not used Tree of Sighs Played soccer for 14 years; has to the crime, especially violent crime, in their played softball in the Chicago neighborhood. Metropolitan Sports Association “Ultimately, every citizen has a right to go Mark your calendars! to every neighborhood that he or she wants to, (CMSA) open division league for Sunday, Oct. 9 however, everyone is expected to act in a re- time TBA four years sponsible and civilized manner in which no one Actor and comedienne feels threatened and no one is hurt or insulted. Jane Lynch Pets I believe that the Chicago Police are addressing Dog: A miniature pincher named the issue and are serious about protecting not Hugo who weighs nine pounds, only LGBT residents, but everyone equally.” Lastly, what about the handcuffs? Micci “and goes everywhere with laughed—because he’s asked about them regu- 5233 N. Clark me—and everyone loves Hugo” larly if they are used at home, too. He respond- (773) 769-9299 ed, “Every day.” About his partner “We are total opposites in many areas of personality and activities we like to do, and we have had to [email protected] adjust ourselves a few times over www.womenandchildrenfirst.com the past seven years.” Parking Available Wheelchair Accessible 18 Aug. 24, 2011 WINDY CITY TIMES

A special series in partnership with the AIDS Foundation of Chicago Greg Louganis keeps on ‘diving’ against HIV/AIDS

By Ross Forman resume had the U.S. not boycotted the 1980 is judging the Red Bull Cliff Diving World Series. Summer Games in Moscow. “Things are going well for me,” said Louganis, Despite all of the medical advances over the Louganis won gold medals in 1984 in both who also has been leading dive camps, such as a past 30 years in the battle against HIV-AIDS, or the springboard and tower diving events. Four recent successful one at the Rose Bowl Aquatics perhaps because of them, Greg Louganis is still years later, he did it again in Seoul—but not Center. worried for the younger generation. Very wor- without drama. Louganis suffered a concussion “I was diagnosed [HIV-positive] 23 years ago ried, in fact. after hitting his head on the springboard dur- … a lot has changed since then. It’s kind of a “The most upsetting thing is, kids still think ing the preliminary rounds while performing a mixed blessing. People are living longer in gen- that they don’t need to be safe in their sexual reverse 2-1/2 pike. He ultimately completed the eral, but, the message that it sends to the kids behavior [because] there are medications,” that preliminaries despite the injury, and went on to is, ‘Oh, this can be treated with a pill.’ The only treat the disease, Louganis, who was diagnosed repeat a similar dive during the finals, earning problem with that mentality is, I wouldn’t wish HIV-positive 23 years ago, said in an exclusive the gold medal. Louganis was named “1988 Ath- my drug regimen on anyone and also, not every- interview with Windy City Times. “A lot of the lete of the Year” by ABC’s Wide World of Sports. one tolerates the drugs the same. The drugs, for treatments that I’ve had have been incredibly Medical personnel in Seoul did not have latex instance, metabolize differently in women. Plus, debilitating—and I wouldn’t wish that on any- gloves on the swimming deck at the time, and there are not a lot of studies [about the medi- one. We know how to prevent HIV through sex- Louganis’ HIV status later was a major topic in cine] on kids. Plus, they see Magic Johnson out ual contact. If you love someone, you are going regards to that incident. there, relatively healthy,” so some don’t worry to show them that you love them by taking care “It’s important for people to know how they about an HIV diagnosis. of yourself and them. Protecting yourself and may get HIV, but also important for them to “Prevention is key. Of course it’s better to not them.” know how they are not going to get HIV,” Lou- have to deal with it. Protection. Just play safe.” Just as Louganis and his partner of four years ganis said. Louganis said learning he was HIV-positive do. Daniel McSwiney was HIV-negative when Louganis is now an athlete mentor to USA was, naturally, a trying time, to say the least. they started dating. McSwiney still is HIV-nega- Diving. He travels across the U.S., working with “Thank God I had diving at the time,” he said. tive. Olympic hopefuls for diving and their coaches. “My thought when I was diagnosed as HIV-posi- Louganis, 51, is one of the most accomplished He observes their programs and makes improve- tive was, it was a death sentence.” and decorated divers in U.S. history. He is a ment recommendations, address issues that con- Louganis was, at the time, training in Florida three-time Olympian (1976, 1984, 1988) who cern the athletes and more. for the 1988 Olympic Games—and confused no doubt would have only added to his golden He also is a certified judge for USA Diving and about what to do. Greg Louganis. Photo by Peggy Sirota “[I] was [thinking about] going to do the hon- orable thing—pack my bags, move back home, Louganis said he wanted to bring AIDS patient lock myself in my home and just wait to die,” Ryan White to Seoul, “to share my Olympic ex- Louganis admits. “My cousin, who was my doc- perience with him, and yet they wouldn’t allow tor, said the healthiest thing for me to do was to him in the country because of his HIV status. continue training.” “We’ve come a long way [with the disease], When he learned he was HIV-positive, doctors but have a long way to go. Education and pre- could not tell how long he had been living with vention are the keys.” the disease. Louganis said his HIV status rarely is dis- It was, he admits, “almost like a healthy de- cussed within his current diving roles—and he nial of the whole situation.” doesn’t fear the disease, as he once did. And he had to deal with depression. “I don’t panic about it anymore, like I used “As long as I was busy, I was fine because I to,” Louganis said. “Before, every sniffle, every wasn’t thinking about it. [Diving] gave me a way tickle in the throat … anything and everything of coping with HIV,” he said. [medically] made you think, ‘Oh my God, this is Louganis’ treatment today is medication it.’” twice-a-day. So where will HIV/AIDS be in another 30 “The medications have changed a lot” over the years? years, Louganis said. “There was a big issue over “I have no idea,” Louganis said. “I don’t ex- a period of time when the protease inhibitors pect [doctors] will find a cure in my lifetime, came out, and compliance was a huge issue be- but I’m more than willing to be the guinea pig cause there were huge side-effects of the medi- to try to make headway into learning about the cations, including diarrhea.” disease.”

Mario Lopez played Louganis in this 1997 USA Network Pictures original film, Breaking the Surface: The Greg Louganis Story. Louganis with his dogs Nipper and Dobby. Photos courtesy Louganis WINDY CITY TIMES Aug. 24, 2011 19

Rudy Galindo: Skater speaks out about AIDS By Ross Forman

Through an online dating service, Val Galindo was set up and after a dinner date, they just clicked. Six months later—and just by chance— his partner realized Galindo’s glorious past. The two had been out to dinner and Galindo put his credit card down to pay, and then ex- cused himself to go to the washroom. The credit card said, Rudy Val Galindo—and his boyfriend saw it. When Galindo returned to the table, his boyfriend asked him if in fact he was the world fa- mous figure skater—and said that he thought Galindo looked familiar. Galindo, you see, wanted to make sure he was liked for who he is, not who he was. Galindo, born Sept. 7, 1969, was a singles and pairs skating sensation. He was the 1996 U.S. national champion and 1987 World Junior Champion. As a pairs skater, he competed with Kristi Yamaguchi and was the 1988 World Junior Champion, as well as the 1989 and 1990 U.S. National Champion. “I accomplished so much in my career, so many of my dreams in skating. I just didn’t go to Rudy Galindo. Photos by Katie Weigel, cour- the Olympics. I accomplished everything that I tesy of Galindo wanted to in skating,” Galindo said by phone. “I have no regrets from my skating career, includ- cess Hollywood, the MSNBC morning show, and ing not going to the Olympics. I’m really happy when he learned his was HIV-positive, especially medications for you, then you can live a long more. with everything that happened in my skating since his brother passed away from AIDS, “and I and productive life. Just exercise, eat well and —In 1997, the Ice Theatre of New York, which career.” saw him suffer for eight months.” just keep positive, look to the future.” emphasizes the performing arts aspects of skat- Galindo skated at the national and interna- “At first, I thought it was a death sentence, Galindo is now living in his native San Jose, ing, honored Galindo. Ice Theatre Director Moira tional level for about 15 years, ending his run in but my doctor quickly reassured me. My doctors Calif., where he is coaching figure skaters. He North said, “His honesty with who he is, his the mid-1990s. He revealed he is gay in Chris- told me of the medical advances, just at that also enjoys spending time with his dog, going to heritage, his homosexuality, I think seeps into tine Brennan’s book Inside Edge: A Revealing point. the gym and watching TV. He also is a Facebook his expressive quality. I hope it will encourage Journey Into the Secret World of Figure Skating, “And HIV-AIDS is not a death sentence any- aficionado. Though he recently added Twitter to others to be who they are and to find their cre- which was published just before he won his na- more; that’s part of the reason I want to be out his social media resume, he prefers Facebook. ative voices.” tional title in 1996. He is the first openly gay there, sharing my story. You don’t have to sit “I like the coaching, though it has its ups —Was part of the U.S. Presidential delegation skating champion in the U.S. on the couch just waiting for your dying day; and downs, just like training or life in general. to the 1998 Winter Olympics in Nagano, Japan, People will skate well one day, then not skate led by Tipper Gore. well the next,” Galindo said. “The coaching is, —Led the International AIDS Candlelight overall, better than I thought [it would be]. I March in San Francisco in 2000. At the end of really like taking the kids to the competitions. the march, Congresswoman Nancy Pelosi, on be- Everything has been good so far.” half of the U.S. House of Representatives, pre- Coach Galindo will be ‘Skater Galindo’ once sented Galindo with a U.S. flag that had recently again for a brief, one-minute, special perfor- flown over the Capitol Building and declared mance at the 2012 U.S. Figure Skating Champi- that Galindo is a National Treasure. onships, set for Jan. 22-29, in San Jose, Calif. —The Lambda Legal Defense and Education “I’m not going to be doing any triples Fund World AIDS Day (Dec. 1) 2000 Report Card [jumps], probably just some doubles, etc.,” he awarded Rudy an A, particularly in the area of said, laughing. prevention, for “Achievement and vital results in Galindo performed Dec. 11, 2010, at Caesar’s the fight against HIV and AIDS.” Palace in Las Vegas along with other legends, —Received the 2001 Ryan White Award for his such as Brian Boitano and Sarah Hughes. contributions to AIDS awareness, prevention, “I have so many skating moments over the and education and for his work with underserved years that stand out,” Galindo said. populations. So do his worldwide fans. —International Figure Skating honored Galin- do among ‘The 25 Most Influential Names In More Rudy Galindo: Figure Skating 2000-2001.’ IFS cited Galindo’s Galindo and his niece and nephew, Tyler Black and Marina Black. Courtesy of Galindo —Name Game: Val came from Rudy’s uncle, work as spokesman for the National Minority who passed away when Rudy was 3, Joe from AIDS Council and for the American Foundation another uncle. Later on Rudy became ‘Rudi’ for for AIDS Research. IFS cited Galindo’s exemplary Galindo published his autobiography, Ice- you can go out there and live your life fairly a few years while he skated pairs with Kristi Ya- and tireless work for AIDS/HIV related causes breaker, in 1997. normally, do what you want. maguchi. and his goal to continue to improve his skating He also is HIV-positive. His skating coach, “The money [raised] and the research is really —Was an Honorary Co-chairperson of the Na- in the face of his own health situation to pro- Jim Hulick, died of AIDS-related cancer in 1989. paying off for HIV and AIDS.” tional Minority AIDS Council and promoted the vide an example to others living with HIV. Plus, Galindo’s brother, George, died from AIDS Galindo’s current HIV treatment is now, “just organization’s education campaign on HIV-relat- —Appeared at a 2001 benefit for Los Angeles in 1994, as well as another coach, Rick Inglesi. a couple pills a day,” he said, laughing. “My ed anemia. AltaMed Health Services, an organization that “Things are good” now, personally, Galindo health is great, knock on wood. Everything is —Was forced to withdraw from the Artistic provides healthcare and support services to the said. “There have been so many advancements fine.” Program in the 2000 Goodwill Games due to the primarily Latino community of men, women, and medically over 30 years. The researchers have But he’s well aware of the death sentence viral pneumonia that led to his HIV diagnosis. children living with HIV and AIDS since 1989. been doing such a wonderful job; [HIV-AIDS] HIV/AIDS used to be, and still can be for some. —After his April 5, 2000, announcement that He received a Mario Tamayo Leadership Award has really come a long way. The advancements “It’s not the worst news you can get, not any- he is HIV-positive, Galindo appeared on The To- for outstanding service to those living with HIV are amazing.” more,” he said. “Once doctors find the right HIV day Show, Dateline, Entertainment Tonight, Ac- Galindo admits he took the news “pretty hard,” and AIDS. 20 Aug. 24, 2011 WINDY CITY TIMES

Magic’s bold coming out with HIV

By Ross Forman

He remembers it like it was yesterday, not 20 years ago. Ted Cappas returned from class to his apartment at Indiana University when one of his two roommates told him that he had to sit down, that he had to tell him something major. That’s when, where and how Cappas learned on Nov. 7, 1991, of the shocking news that his all-time favorite basketball player, Magic John- son, had announced to the world that he was retiring from the National Basketball Association (NBA) because he was HIV-positive. Anthony T. Sivanthaphanith. Photo courtesy “I just remember being in shock and thought of Sivanthaphanith he was going to die [almost immediately],” said Cappas, now 39 and living in Chicago’s Ander- sonville neighborhood. “At that time, the prevailing attitude was, Life lessons once someone got HIV, they were going to die. And that’s what I felt. I was so upset.” Then a sophomore on the Bloomington cam- for Chicago pus, Cappas immediately left his apartment and went to a campus gym—to shoot hoops and try HIV+ athlete to get his mind off the news. “If you asked most of my friends at the time, By Ross Forman or my family, when they heard the news, the first person they thought of was me—because they He sat in his car for an hour, perhaps longer, knew how upset I’d be. Heck, my mom didn’t that day in 2009 when he learned he was HIV- even call me because she knew I’d be so sad,” positive. Anthony T. Sivanthaphanith was 24 at Cappas said. the time and to say he was depressed would be Cappas grew up in suburban Northbrook and an understatement. He just kept thinking about attended Glenbrook North High School, where how he could let this happen to himself through he played on the school’s sophomore basketball unprotected sex. team as a freshman, and then the next three Sivanthaphanith was going to the doctor for years on the Spartans’ varsity squad. a regular check-up when his doctor asked to Even before high school, the first NBA Fi- also take tests for HIV and STDs. “I really didn’t nals that Cappas remembers—as a 10-year-old think twice about it, but, about a week later, in 1980—featured Johnson in the spotlight. the doctors called and said they wanted to talk Games weren’t broadcast live at the time, but he about something,” Sivanthaphanith said. “I was stayed up late to watch on tape-delay. quite scared because I could just feel what it Cappas graduated from Indiana in 1994 and was about. came out as a gay man in 1995. He has played in “I was hard on myself; I thought I deserved the predominantly gay Coady Roundball Classic this for being careless,” Sivanthaphanith said. basketball tournament in Chicago for the past 14 “My boyfriend at the time left me when I told Magic Johnson on the cover of The Advocate April 21, 1992, a few months after disclosing his him. He said he was angry at me and that was years—and also ran the event for seven years. HIV status. Cappas even has a Johnson jersey from Michi- probably the hardest part.” gan State University hanging in his home on Sivanthaphanith also stopped talking to a lot Chicago’s North Side. of people because he was scared of what they to play in the annual NBA All-Star Game, held in to the business world and being tremendously “I remember being so sad for him, thinking would say. Orlando, Fla. Johnson won the MVP Award after successful. what was going to happen to him and sad from “I also got angry, angry for being so stu- scoring a game-high 29 points to lead his West- “When I look at Magic today, I don’t immedi- a selfish standpoint as well that I wasn’t going pid and not protecting myself—and I still get ern Conference teammates to a 153-113 win ately think that he’s HIV-positive. When I see to get to watch him play anymore,” Cappas said. that way sometimes,” Sivanthaphanith said. “I over the Eastern Conference. Magic today, I see an ex-superstar athlete who is Earvin “Magic” Johnson, born Aug. 14, 1959, burned many bridges and friendships. I am now “That [game] was a defining moment in HIV,” now an announcer and successful businessman, in Lansing, Mich., played at Michigan State be- working on rebuilding those.” Cappas said. “He had [the disease], yet had a then, a minute or two later, it hits me that he fore being the No. 1 overall draft pick in 1979, Partial credit goes to the popular, AIDS-related phenomenal game; that [game] opened a lot of also is HIV-positive. selected by the Los Angles Lakers. He blossomed musical Rent. eyes.” “To see him live a very successful life, it makes into one of the best NBA players ever and, in “A friend wanted [me] to watch Rent. Then all Johnson’s popular one-night return for the [the disease] more human.” 1996, was selected one of the Top 50 Players in of the sudden I could relate,” Sivanthaphanith All-Star Game wasn’t, though, without contro- Johnson was presented with the inaugural NBA history by the NBA. said. “Before [watching Rent], I didn’t really versy, even within the league. Take, for instance, World AIDS Award from the AIDS Health Founda- Johnson’s Hall of Fame career included three understand. I had all their feelings, I listened Karl Malone, who also had a Hall of Fame career. tion in Los Angeles in November 2010. Johnson NBA MVP Awards, nine NBA Finals appearances, carefully and even looked up words and lyrics He openly stated that he didn’t want to play told attendees: “Who would have ever thought 12 All-Star games, and 10 All-NBA First and and found good meaning behind them. against Johnson because he was afraid he might that, 20 years later, here I am and we’re still Second Team nominations. He led the league “They say a lot of things about how you need catch AIDS. trying to help people. This disease is a deadly in regular-season assists four times, and is the to live for today and not feel sorry. So I simply Johnson was a member of the 1992 gold med- disease, but I think now, where we couldn’t talk NBA’s all-time leader in assists per game, with stopped and began working on me and failed al-winning U.S. Olympic Dream Team that he about it 20 years ago in open, now we can talk an average of 11.2. Johnson was a five-time NBA many times before I figured it out.” captained along with longtime rival Larry Bird. openly about it. We can have awards like tonight champion whose jersey number (32) has been Sivanthaphanith, now 26, lives in Chicago’s Johnson returned to the NBA in 1996, at age at the Staples Center. What a blessing that is.” retired by the LA Lakers. Lakeview neighborhood and is a graduate stu- 37, and played 32 games for the Lakers before The Magic Johnson Foundation was founded “Everyone immediately thought he was gay dent. He also is competing in the annual Chi- retiring for the third and final time. by Johnson in 1991 to develop programs and because [HIV/AIDS] was then painted as the cago Triathlon through the Team To End AIDS, “Magic’s return [to the NBA] in 1996 had a big support community-based organizations that gay-disease,” Cappas said. “But since Magic [is] the endurance-training program run by the AIDS influence because he was playing at the highest address the educational, health and social straight, that really changed people’s percep- Foundation of Chicago (AFC). He has been par- level,” Cappas said. needs of ethnically diverse, urban communities. tions—in a good way. He showed that it wasn’t ticipating in triathlons for about two years. “I “I think Magic has had a bigger impact on the Among its claims of ‘What We Do,’ the Founda- just a gay disease, that anyone could pick up got started [in triathlons] in Iowa, when one African-American community with what he has tion states: “raising AIDS/HIV awareness.” that disease.” of my co-workers challenged me to do one. Ever done business-wise. He’s been such an amazing Magic is still Cappas’ favorite. Though he officially retired in November 1991, since, I have been addicted to them. example of a world-class athlete transitioning Johnson returned to the sport on Feb. 9, 1992, Turn to page 21 WINDY CITY TIMES Aug. 24, 2011 21

LESSONS from page 20 “I had many thoughts of suicide. “But since then, things have looked up and I have many more good days than bad, but some- Chicagoan Torres helps “Triathlons started off to feed my competitive times reality sets in.” side, but now I’m doing it not only for my health Sivanthaphanith said his motivation these but also as a challenge to myself both physically days is to just help fight this disease, “and look TPAN with riding power and with raising money for the AIDS Foundation at it straight in the face and say you don’t own of Chicago. I want people to see that I’m not me; I own me. By Ross Forman dying, that I’m living. “I have a big heart and I want to share that “My main goal this year is to raise as much with everyone, whether they have HIV/AIDS or About a month before the 2010 Ride For AIDS, money [as possible] for the AIDS Foundation of not. I also want to educate, to help others. Antonio Torres hit a huge roadblock: he lost his Chicago and to finish the race in three hours or “I’m living, not dying from this disease. Ev- job in management at a local hotel. less.” eryone is dying, but not everyone is living. I tell “I was depressed and didn’t want to do any- “At that exact moment [when the doctor re- everyone just to live, take advantage of your op- thing, including the Ride,” said Torres, who had vealed my HIV status], I was nervous and frus- portunities, get the help you need, follow your already run 10 marathons over the past five trated. To this day, I’m still a little nervous and body and mind. I tell myself and others that this years and was about to embark on his first two- excited to share how I feel; it’s something I’ve [disease] is a part of who I am, that it doesn’t day, 200-mile bicycle ride. always wanted to do, but haven’t yet. My mind change who I have been for the past 26 years of Officials from the Test Positive Aware Network is running with things I want to say and say my life.” (TPAN), which produces the annual Ride, encour- [properly]. I’m frustrated with the fact that Sivanthaphanith said his parents learned of aged Torres to continue his training. They re- some things have held me back like my new bike his HIV status from someone else—not from peatedly told him that the Ride would change being stolen and people still don’t understand. their son—and that’s one of the biggest chal- his life. But I won’t let it bring me down. lenges he’s had to endure. Torres did ultimately complete the 2010 Ride “The past two years have been an up and “I was not ready for them to hear about this and now admits it, “definitely changed my life.” down battle. I found out [I was HIV-positive] [diagnosis] at the time,” he said. “Since then, He got more self-confidence through the Ride, when I was 24. I was still learning about who I my parents have been pretty distant from me, and met people last year who are now among his was [at that age] and what I wanted to be when rarely talking, picking up calls or even wanting closest friends. He also learned first-hand about I grew up. Then life threw me a curveball. I was to touch me at one point. They are still there for TPAN and its services. pretty down on my luck for about the first year me, but simply do not understand the disease.” Three days after finishing the 2010 Ride, a or so [after the diagnosis] and was just mad and TPAN representative called Torres and told him depressed. that, the next day, on that Thursday, he had a meeting with a therapist. TPAN was there to help Torres who, at the time, had no job, no insurance and worried he’d be forced to stop taking his HIV medicine. “TPAN … saved my life,” Torres said slowly, emotionally. “I was depressed, ready to stop taking my medicine. They helped me realize that, yes, I have potential.” Torres, 38, has been living in Chicago for 16 years. He has been HIV-positive since 1995 and taking HIV medicine since 2001. He has run 10 marathons, most recently the 2010 Chicago Mar- athon last October. He ventured into bicycle riding as a different form of cross-training for his running. “I didn’t know anything about TPAN when I registered,” for the 2010 Ride, Torres said. “I just wanted to do it last year for the challenge, to see if I could complete the 200-mile ride.” TPAN has since led Torres to individual and group therapy, given him Jewel gift cards for Anthony T. Sivanthaphanith. Photo courtesy of Sivanthaphanith Tony Torres. Photo by Ross Forman food when needed, and more. “[Last] November, my situation was really bad, especially financially,” Torres said. “TPAN was emotional—for them and for me.” there for me.” With about 300 riders, the 2011 Ride gener- Torres landed another hotel job this past Feb- ated more than $500,000 for TPAN, a more than ruary and, “everything has gotten better,” he $200,000 increase over the 2010 Ride. said. “What’s great about Tony is that with him, the Torres was back on his bicycle in July and circle completes itself,” said TPAN Project Man- again completed the 200-mile Ride for AIDS, ager Richard Cordova. “He’s in need of services including the $1,000 fundraising minimum for that TPAN can provide, the Ride for AIDS Chicago TPAN. He also was the event’s Training Coordina- helps fund those services, and Tony participates tor. and fundraises for the Ride. He helps support “I don’t know if many [riders] truly know how the very services he utilizes to stay well. Perfect much impact the money that they’re raising re- circle.” ally helps, including for people like me,” Torres Hundreds of local runners, meanwhile, are now said. “I told people on the Ride this year about training for the Chicago Marathon in October and my story, about how much TPAN did for me, and the Honolulu Marathon in December through the they are always surprised. Team To End AIDS (T2), the endurance-training “The riders truly are saving lives with their program for the AIDS Foundation of Chicago. fundraising.” The runners will raise hundreds of thousands Torres said he personally knows at least 20 of dollars, too—to benefit people just like Tor- people who were aided by TPAN and the money res. raised by riders. Torres, meanwhile, is mentoring local high “Many people probably don’t realize the im- school students to run a half marathon and oth- pact they have on others’ lives through their ers to run a full marathon. fundraising,” Torres said. “Sure, they know it’s “Health-wise, I’m good now. I think being for a good cause, but they don’t usually see first- active helps me to fight HIV,” he said. “I’m so hand where or who the money goes to. I am that grateful for TPAN and for all those who fund- person, first-hand. raise for the Ride, and for other events, such as To see their faces when I tell them that yes, the marathon [through T2] … because I know the fundraising has helped me personally … it’s first-hand where the money goes.” 22 Aug. 24, 2011 WINDY CITY TIMES

Lantvit coaches people to help in AIDS battle

By Ross Forman suburban Lyons. He moved to the North Side of Chicago in 1992. Dan Lantvit is in his fourth year coaching mara- Lantvit, who is dating P.J. White, has run thon runners, and his first in the high-profile eight marathons—five of them as fundraisers for Saturday morning slot for the Team To End AIDS AFC. He recorded his best time during the 2005 (T2), the endurance-training program operated Chicago Marathon—3:41:50. by the AIDS Foundation of Chicago (AFC), origi- He also has participated in the Heartland AIDS nating from close to Foster Avenue and the lake- Ride, the Twin Cities AIDS Ride, the AIDS Vaccine front. Ride (500 miles in 6 days), the Mrs. T’s Triathlon Lantvit, 44, an openly gay research specialist (Olympic distance), Steelhead and Racine Half at the University of Illinois-Chicago who lives in Ironman, as well as the Louisville and Madison Chicago’s North Center neighborhood, replaces Ironman. Katie Schmid, who has been promoted to T2’s Over the years, Lantvit has coached several Head Coach. Schmid also is coaching T2’s run- hundred marathoners, including some friends ners who will participate this December in the and family members on the side. annual Honolulu Marathon. “T2 has become like a family to me. I can Ironically, Lantvit and Schmid ran the 2008 count on them to support me in all that I do,” Nashville Marathon together, each wearing Lantvit said. “I have been raising money for AFC small, tight-fitting white tank-tops. Lantvit’s for many years now and, through the various shirt said ‘Pretty’ on the front, while Schmid’s events that I participated in, I met Mike Dil- shirt said, ‘Sexy.’ Both still laugh at the memory beck. When he told me he was bringing this mar- of the ‘Pretty Sexy’ combo jogging 26.2 miles athon program to Chicago [in 2003], he asked if through the streets of Nashville. I would be a participant to help make the initial “Coaching has become a big part of my life. I year successful. Once I was in, I was hooked. take pride in helping others reach their goal of Not to mention my first marathon coach, Captain running a marathon,” Lantvit said. “I was not Kirk, was such an inspiration. I wanted to be an a big runner throughout my school years and inspiration and smiling face just like he was for it wasn’t until a co-worker start talking to me me. I also believe in the cause—of helping to about her marathon training that I even consid- give back to people in need 100 percent.” ered running a marathon. I had been a long-dis- So what’s the best part of your alliance with tance cyclist for many years and decided to go T2 and AFC? and try to watch her run the Chicago Marathon. “The lifelong friends that I have made,” Lant- Watching it, I was just amazed at the diversity vit said without hesitation. of the people doing it. At that point, I told my- “This is only the second year for T2, [so mem- self that, if some of these people could do it, so orable T2 stories are limited], but showing up at could I. the Honolulu Marathon in 2004, where I was met “I ran my first [marathon in 2001] and will by two of my favorite people [who were wear- always remember it. From then on, I felt that I ing] coconut bras and grass skirts, that’s a run- could help other people achieve their goal, their ning memory I will always remember.” dream by helping them through a training pro- Also in 2004, Lantvit recalls a post-race photo gram and to share my experience.” with some friends—and he had to yell warnings Lantvit said his greatest coaching joy is just to the photographer not to step to far back as watching his runners meet, and often times, sur- there was a marathon finisher who was having pass a major goal in their life. [stomach issues], he said. “I knew I would have big shoes to fill taking “As a coach, I would have to say every time over this [Saturday morning run] site from Ka- one of our runners crosses the finish line for the tie. I really appreciate the honor, faith and trust first time, and I get to see the emotion on their Coach Dan Lantvit. Photo by Ross Forman that T2 has in me,” said Lantvit, originally from face, that always gets me.” Sotomayor classics

As with most of his editorial cartoons, this 1990 Danny Sotomayor classic depicts the unequal results of the U.S. Census count. Even the 2010 Census, which did quantify some LGBT relationships, stopped short of full inclusion of LGBTs. Courtesy Lori Cannon WINDY CITY TIMES Aug. 24, 2011 23

Dance for Life turns 20

Photos by Kat Fitzgerald (MysticImagesPhotography.com)

By Erica Demarest

Dance for Life celebrated its 20th anniversary Aug. 20 at the Auditorium Theater in downtown Chi- cago. Five of the city’s best dance troupes came together for the dazzling fundraiser and performed two cross-company world premieres choreographed to commemorate the event. Considered the largest performance-based HIV/AIDS fundraiser in the Midwest, Dance for Life has raised more than $4 million since its 1991 inaugural performance at the Organic Theatre. This year’s sold-out show marked the largest to date. More than 3,500 tickets were sold, while private donations, raffle and ticket sales raised a record $350,000. This year’s proceeds support the AIDS Foundation of Chicago (AFC) and the Dance for Life Fund, which assists dancers with life-threatening illnesses. A pre-show gala in the historical Auditorium Theatre’s reception hall featured Absolut vodka cocktails crafted by Roscoe’s Tavern mixologist Shawn Hazen. The atmosphere was energetic as guests chatted and enjoyed hors d’oeuvres from Jewel Osco; popular bites included coconut shrimp, fresh mozzarella and tomato skewers, and chocolate-covered strawberries. AFC President/CEO David Ernesto Munar opened the Dance for Life performance with welcoming re- marks and a brief run-down of the event’s history. WGN-TV’s Dean Richards acted as emcee, introducing acts and cracking jokes. There were also brief clips of the Dance for Life documentary (which aired on WTTW recently) interspersed performances. Performing companies included Giordano Jazz Dance Chicago, the Joffrey Ballet, Ron De Jesus Dance, the River North Chicago Dance Company and Hubbard Street Dance Chicago. Each company shined in its own segment, while members of each joined forces in two world premieres. The dramatic “Queenz,” choreographed by Harrison McEldowney, brought Act I to a close with stage-level and aerial dance performances set to Queen music. The world-renowned Randy Duncan choreographed the show’s grand finale, “Stand by Me.” Danc- ers wore beige and neutral tones in the moving performance, set to a mix of music and spoken word contemplating life post-AIDS. Dance for Life closed with a rousing standing ovation. 24 Aug. 24, 2011 WINDY CITY TIMES WINDY CITY VIEWPOINTs TIMES forward in tandem, with Congress pursuing re- Department announced a military exception to peal legislation as the federal courts entertained the arguments it has made in other cases about VOL. 26 No. 46, Aug. 24, 2011 Diane H. The combined forces of Windy City Times, a case, Log Cabin Republicans v. Panetta, that sexual-orientation discrimination. For civilians, founded Sept. 1985, and Outlines newspaper, Mazur questions its constitutionality. it argues, courts should closely review discrimi- founded May 1987. After a lower court ruled in September 2010 natory laws using heightened scrutiny, but for that DADT is unconstitutional, it appeared as if members of the military, courts should defer to PUBLISHER & EXECUTIVE EDITOR the judicial branch might terminate the policy the judgment of others and stay out of it. It’s Tracy Baim before the politicians got around to it. But now called “judicial deference” to military judgment, ASSISTANT PUBLISHER Terri Klinsky that the military, Department of Defense, and and it’s become the centerpiece of the adminis- MANAGING EDITOR Andrew Davis President have certified that the armed forces tration’s approach to military equality. The ad- BUSINESS MANAGER Meghan Streit aaron can live without DADT, the converse may be ministration is defending the military’s freedom DIRECTOR OF NEW MEDIA Jean Albright true, and the Justice Department is pressuring from judicial oversight more than it is defending ART DIRECTOR Kirk Williamson belkin SENIOR ACCOUNT MANAGERS: Terri Klinsky, Amy the federal courts to dismiss Log Cabin as moot. DADT. Matheny, Kirk Williamson, Dave Ouano, Kirk Smid That would be a mistake and a lost opportunity, There’s a good chance that if it continues to PROMOTIONAL SUPPORT Cynthia Holmes because a favorable decision in the case is still hear the case, the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals NIGHTSPOTS MANAGING EDITOR Kirk Williamson needed to protect the welfare of the troops, and would disagree with the idea that the Constitu- NATIONAL SALES Rivendell Media, 212-242-6863 SENIOR WRITERS Kate Sosin, Bob Roehr, Rex because there’s even more at stake than that. tion means something less in a military context. Wockner, Marie J. Kuda, David Byrne, Tony Per- The administration argues that repeal will re- But if the administration can convince the court egrin, Lisa Keen, Yasmin Nair, Erica Demarest solve the plaintiffs’ concerns, and so the entire that Log Cabin is moot, there will be no ruling THEATER EDITOR Scott C. Morgan Federal courts case should be wiped from the record as though on the merits. If it is also successful in striking CINEMA WRITER Richard Knight, Jr. BOOKS WRITER Yasmin Nair must protect it never happened, including evidence at trial the district court’s decision, it will eliminate any ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT WRITERS and the district court’s conclusion that DADT is official record that DADT was found unconstitu- Mary Shen Barnidge, Steve Warren, Lawrence Ferber, Mel Ferrand, Jerry Nunn, Alicia Wilson, unconstitutional. When a challenged law is re- tional. gay troops pealed, courts sometimes strike all proceedings The Ninth Circuit should take Log Cabin to its Jonathan Abarbanel COLUMNISTS/WRITERS: Yvonne Zipter, Jorjet The following op-ed, by Palm Center scholars Di- because there is no longer any active controver- conclusion. Even if it sidelines the appeal, it Harper, Lee Lynch, Tully Satre, Lisa Keen, Charlsie ane H. Mazur and Aaron Belkin, makes the case sy between the parties. The case becomes moot, should not take the district court opinion off Dewey, Michael Knipp, Lisa Klein, Joe Erbentraut, Carrie Maxwell, Billy Masters, Chuck Colbert, for federal courts ensuring that “Don’t Ask, Don’t and subject to dismissal, if it lacks any practical the books. Log Cabin was the first case in which significance. a court invited evidence on the justification for Micki Leventhal, Sarah Toce, Dana Rudolph, Sally Tell” (DADT) is not reinstated, and follows recent Parsons, Emmanuel Garcia comments by presidential candidate Rep. Michelle Log Cabin, however, is not the usual case in DADT. The government was unable to produce SENIOR PHOTOGRAPHERS Kat Fitzgerald, Mel Bachmann, R-Minn., supporting the reinstate- which a constitutionally offensive statute is re- any, and that was why it lost the case. It is im- Ferrand, Hal Baim, Steve Starr, Emmanuel Garcia, Dave Ouano, Tim Carroll ment of the gay ban. pealed and the plaintiff is completely protected. portant to preserve the outcome of this trial as CIRCULATION After “Don’t ask, don’t tell” (DADT) is repealed Congress’s DADT Repeal Act does nothing to en- a reminder to future Congresses and Presidents sure equal treatment of gay and lesbian troops. that the military is not a Constitution-free zone. CIRCULATION DIRECTOR Jean Albright on September 20, it would be difficult for any DISTRIBUTION: Ashina, Allan, Dan, John, Renee, future administration to reverse the change. All it does is repeal the congressional version of Log Cabin establishes principles that must be Sue and Victor Most of the country supports allowing gay men DADT and return total discretion to the execu- defended whether or not DADT disappears. It WEB HOSTING: LoveYourWebsite.com (lead pro- and lesbians to serve openly, including a ma- tive branch to decide what to do—the way it sets a standard of fair treatment for those serv- grammer: Martie Marro) jority of Republicans, and it will be operation- was handled before DADT. ing in uniform. It reminds government there are ally and politically challenging to roll back the As a result, even after repeal, there is no guar- limits to intrusions on personal liberty. Finally, Copyright 2011 Lambda Publications Inc./Windy City Media antee that gay service members will be treated it affirms that the military is part of our consti- Group; All rights reserved. Reprint by permission only. Back clocks. issues (if available) for $5 per issue (postage included). That said, it’s legally possible, and presidential in a way that respects the Constitution. Until tutional community, and that service members Return postage must accompany all manuscripts, drawings, that question is definitely resolved, Log Cabin and civilians alike are deserving of judicial pro- and photographs submitted if they are to be returned, and candidate Michele Bachmann’s stated intent to no responsibility may be assumed for unsolicited materials. reinstate the military’s ban is therefore of some should not be dismissed as moot. It is especially tection. All rights to letters, art and photographs sent to Windy misguided to argue the controversy is over given The Palm Center filed an amicus brief in Log City Times will be treated as unconditionally assigned concern. Although some activists are calling on for publication purposes and as such, subject to editing President Obama to sign an executive order forc- that the House has already passed defense bills Cabin explaining the proper role for judicial re- and comment. The opinions expressed by the columnists, ing the Pentagon to treat gay and lesbian troops with provisions designed to obstruct repeal and view in a military context. cartoonists, letter writers, and commentators are their own and do not necessarily reflect the position ofWindy City equally, the institution that’s best positioned to Republican presidential candidates vow to bring The Palm Center is a think tank at the Uni- Times. Publication of the name, photograph, or likeness of lock repeal into place is the federal courts. DADT back. versity of California, Santa Barbara. Since a person or organization in articles or advertising in Windy And there’s even more at stake in Log Cabin 1998, the Center has been a leader in com- City Times is not to be construed as any indication of the There were always two ways to end “don’t ask, sexual orientation of such person or organization. While don’t tell” (DADT). Congress could repeal the than the rights of gay and lesbian troops. At missioning and disseminating research in the we encourage readers to support the advertisers who make this newspaper possible, Windy City Times cannot accept law, or the courts could find it unconstitutional. a fundamental level, the case is about whether areas of gender, sexuality, and the military. or not the military is subject to judicial over- For more information, visit http://www.palm- responsibility for advertising claims. During the past year, both options have moved (773) 871-7610 FAX (773) 871-7609 sight. In its latest Log Cabin appeal, the Justice center.org. e-mail: [email protected]

www.WindyCityMediaGroup.com radio: WindyCityQueercast.com LETTERS video: QueerTVNetwork.com WINDY CITY MEDIA GROUP, 5315 N. Clark St. #192, Chicago, IL 60640 Applauding a decision der the care of Catholic Charities in the three ing with what I and a small group of community U.S.A dioceses in question—Springfield, Peoria and activists have been saying and doing in other (MAILING ADDRESS ONLY) Dear neighbors, Joliet—and their transition to other adoptive/ communities throughout Chicagoland. Windy City Times Deadline every Wednesday. foster agencies that put their needs first, thank As the criminal justice point person for Illinois Nightspots Deadline Wednesday prior to street date. As a Gay Catholic I am pleased with the ruling of God, can now begin. State Rep. Constance Howard, I led volunteers OUT! Resource Guide ONLINE It is my hope that the Illinois Catholic Confer- in her office almost a decade ago to organize www.WindyCityMediaGroup.com Judge John Schmidt in which he said it did not www.WindyCityMediaGroup.com matter what the civil union’s law said because ence will listen to Catholics, and approach the the statewide grassroots strategy that assisted www.WindyCityQueercast.com a more basic issue was at play: Is the state re- situation on a more pastoral level. They must Howard in her legislative efforts to expand the www.QueerTVNetwork.com quired to contract with Catholic Charities? The stop this adversarial role they have chosen of expungement and sealing statues in this state. answer, he said, is no. The Illinois judge has promoting their own dogma over what is in the I remember the energy and focus that every- “Windy City Media Group generated ruled the state can end its adoption and foster best interest of the child. one had, especially Circuit Court Clerk Dorothy enormous interest among their readers care relationship with Catholic Charities, which State funding should not be used to promote Brown. Brown advocated behind the scenes in this year’s LGBT Consumer Index refuses to place children with gay couples. discrimination in the name of religion over among those who opposed this effort and many Survey. Out of approximately 100 The Illinois Act, which is known as the Illinois equality. Thank you, Judge Schmidt. of other 102 county officials to insure that this print and online media partners who Religious Freedom Protection and Civil Union legislation passed and became law. participated in the survey, Windy Act, grants same-sex couples the state legal Joe Murray Then, Brown began the process of implement- City was the best performing regional benefits of marriage. Executive Director ing the expungement and sealing laws among media in the U.S. Only survey partners This confrontation could have been avoided Rainbow Sash Movement (Gay/Lesbian Catholics) those who needed the help! She began spon- with a nationwide footprint were if the Illinois Catholic Conference would have soring seminars in economically disadvantaged able to generate a greater number of put the adoptive/foster care child’s interest as Addressing expungement communities. Now, the Center on Halsted is responses.” —David Marshall, Research its first priority. In private communication with sponsoring a much-needed summit. Director, Community Marketing, Inc. the leadership of the Illinois Conference, Catho- Dear Editor: I applaud Brown’s office for making sure that lic Charities has shown an arrogant refusal to all citizens who need this service get it—includ- even meet to discuss the issue. Refusing dia- I really enjoyed reading the Windy City Times ing those within the LGBT communities through- logue with the gay leadership on this matter has article “Experts say LGBT people should expunge out Chicago. Congratulations to the Center on shown an unwillingness to explore at least the arrests” (Aug. 17 issue). Halsted for this effort; it’s really needed within possibility of common ground on of what is in As the only openly gay man associated with this community. the best interest of the prospective orphans un- the creation of the law that expands expunge- Sincerely, der their care. ment and sealing laws in this state, I am grati- Michael O’Connor Nearly 2,000 children in foster care are un- fied to know that LGBT experts are finally agree- Chicago WINDY CITY TIMES Aug. 24, 2011 25 GOINGS-ON WINDY CITY TIMES’ ENTERTAINMENT SECTION

Photo by Ross Forman BROTHERS IN ARMS Teammates Humberto and Rodrigo Carrillo are one of several pairs competing in this year’s softball world series. See more on page 35. THEATER MUSIC AUTOS Hazy shade of ‘Winter’. Pop life. Darling’s detour. Page 26. Page 31. Page 36.

Photo of Alex Fisher Photo of Dave Stewart Photo of Evan Darling from Idle Muse Theatre by Kristin Burns courtesy of Darling

Judy Garland Live! Starring Tommy Femia plays 8 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, Aug. Scottish Play Scott 25-27, and 7 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 28, at Daven- Tommy ports Piano Bar and Cabaret, 1383 N. Milwau- Femia as kee Ave. Tickets are $22-$25 plus a two-drink fied with her because she constantly burned out Judy BY SCOTT C. MORGAN minimum. Call 773-278-1830 or visit http:// and came back,” Femia said. “It’s funny because Garland. www.davenportspianobar.com. Out actor Tommy Femia didn’t initially want to [Garland’s daughter Liza Minnelli] was once PR photo impersonate stage and screen legend Judy Gar- asked, ‘Why is your mother so loved by the gay land. But it was the insistence of his choreogra- community?’ She says, ‘Because they have the pher friend Hal Simons (who was quite adept at best taste.’” CRITICS’ PICKS impersonating MGM tap dance queen Ann Miller In fact, Minnelli once attended one of Femia’s himself) that steered Femia to take the plunge Garland concerts at a club called 88’s. According Cirque Shanghai Extreme, Navy Pier in the summer of 1992 when he and Simons both to Femia, Minnelli remained incognito by having Pepsi Skyline Stage, through Sept. 5. Time starred in a double drag act that eventually ran a friend stand in front of her while she sat under is running out to catch this family-friendly for nine months. the stairs. Femia has discovered through the years. show featuring amazing feats of balance, Femia proved to be so successful at channel- “I was maybe three feet away and did this “It is not easy to do her,” Femia said, add- acrobatics and performers squeezing into ing Garland that it has essentially taken over his whole Judy set and then I found out she was ing how he has to get a lot of vocal rest and sparkly and skin-tight costumes. SCM performance career. Chicago audiences get to there all the while and loved it!” Femia said, live like a hermit when he has a string of Judy Family Devotions, Halcyon Theatre at the see the artistry of his live vocal Garland imper- pointing out that he wouldn’t have been able performances. Greenhouse, through Sept. 4. “What do you sonations when he returns to Davenports Piano to sing a single note if he knew Minnelli was in “I’ve done many off-Broadway shows where I know about America? You were born here!” Bar and Cabaret for a run of “Judy Garland Live! attendance. didn’t do Judy and you can do eight shows a sneers an immigrant Chinese greed-head Starring Tommy Femia” Aug. 25-28. “[Minnelli has] been very nice to me through week,” Femia said. “But with Judy it’s all belting in a very young David Henry Hwang’s wry “I’ve loved Judy Garland ever since I was a the years,” Femia said. “One time we spent an and a different placement on the larynx because Shepard-esque comment on the intergen- little kid, of course with The Wizard of Oz like hour and a half in her dressing room just going I’m doing somebody else’s voice.” erational conflicts that drive a boy to flee everybody else,” Femia said via a telephone in- over different songs and arrangements. She re- Naturally, Femia’s show features Garland songs his family. MSB terview where he was performing his show in ally respected my opinions, and to me she’s just that everyone expects like “Somewhere Over the The Trestle At Pope Lick Creek, Eclipse Delaware. The now-42-year-old out performer a goddess.” Rainbow,” “The Trolley Song,” “The Man That Theatre at the Greenhouse, through Sept. acquired her albums and sought out Garland’s TV Far from being a disappearing gay icon (as Got Away” and “Rockabye Your Baby.” But Femia 4. Part social drama and part neo-gothic ro- show appearance on video while he was in high once predicted in a 1994 The New York Times also makes a point of adding newer standards mance, Naomi Wallace’s eerie tale of teen- school at New York’s School of Performing Arts gay pride piece on modern-day divas), Garland that Judy never got to sing like “50 Percent” and agers and parents adrift in America’s min- (Femia’s classmates included Suzanne Vega and retains an affectionate place among succeeding “The Greatest Love of All.” ing regions during the Great Depression is a Ving Rhames). generations of gay men. Of course, Femia ac- “I turn pop songs around and make them into haunting caveat on our own troubled times. “I just made some kind of connection with knowledges gay singer/songwriter Rufus Wain- Judy-esque standards and it works,” Femia. MSB her, like I felt what she felt and like I under- wright for recently helping to turn younger gay “Had she lived, I definitely believe she would Sky’s the Limit (Weather Permitting), stood her,” Femia said. “And it’s hard to explain, fans’ attention back to Garland by his recreation have performed [‘50 Percent’].” Second City e.t.c., in an open run. American but you’ve got to let your character take over for of her iconic Carnegie Hall and London Palla- Although Femia’s audiences are typically asp rationalism gets spoofed with sarcastic what you’re doing. She’s just such a fascinating, dium concerts. But like many, Femia prefers Gar- mixed among gay and straight, it’s the younger pessimism in this great new comedy revue over-the-top singer—it’s just irresistible.” land’s brassy originals to Wainwright’s lethargic 20- and 30-something crowds that he is particu- that unabashedly leans left with its wit and Garland’s heartbreaking vocals were a touch- take on the material. larly happy to see in attendance. humor. SCM stone for gay men living under more difficult “Judy’s timeless. There’s nothing dated about “[Judy Garland] died decades before they were and closeted during the 1950s and early ’60s. her performances,” Femia said. “You watch any born and, for many of them, they’re discovering —By Barnidge And since Garland’s funeral will forever be tied of those numbers from her television show and her,” Femia said. “So it’s really something when and Morgan with the 1969 Stonewall Riots, she will always you lose your breath. It’s just unbelievable.” they wait to talk to me after the show. It’s thrill- have a place in the Gay Rights movement. Of course, singing in Garland’s take-no-prison- ing because it’s them having seen ‘Judy’ for the “[Gay men during Garland’s lifetime] identi- ers style can take its toll on anyone’s voice, as first time in their lives.” 26 Aug. 24, 2011 WINDY CITY TIMES THEATER REVIEW antee Henry his mistress sleeping nearby)—with nothing to do but feebly protest her status. It’s THEATER REVIEW Broadway veterans Greg Edelman and Liz The Lion in Winter to Jackson’s credit that he contrives to allow McCartney take possession of Sweeney and Playwright: James Goldman Alex Fisher a few moments to demonstrate her Sweeney Todd Mrs. Lovett, exhibiting exuberant vocal and At: Idle Muse Theatre at character’s alacrity at learning from her elders. Playwright: Stephen Sondheim acting chops. Tall, lean Edelman as inwardly the Side Project, 1439 W. Jarvis Ave. Indeed, the entire cast takes welcome advan- (music and lyrics), Hugh Wheeler (book) focused Todd—who often smiles but rarely Phone: 800-838-3006;$15-$20 tage of their close quarters in the Side Project At: Drury Lane Theatre Oakbrook Terrace laughs, the lyrics say—lets us observe Swee- Runs through: Sept. 11 to render us privy to their personae’s subtextual Tickets: 630-530-0111; ney’s fervid calculations in which a compul- machinations—not through the actorly twitches www.drurylandoakbrook.com; $35-$46 sion for revenge yields to something much BY MARY SHEN BARNIDGE usually associated with costume drama, but in- Runs through: Oct. 9 darker and damning. McCartney has the in- tegrated into the power struggles with a vigor souciance for Mrs. Lovett’s comic turns and Depending on whom you ask, James Goldman’s and immediacy exemplified by the visual meta- BY JONATHAN ABARBANEL yet she, too, easily lets us observe Lovett’s 1966 play is: a) an anachronism-riddled histori- phor of David Skvarla’s ursine Henry surrounded own calculating and capitalistic desires. cal romp, b) a satire of upper-class snoots bick- by would-be usurpers like a bear baited by dogs. If you love Sweeney Todd, do not wait: rush, They are supported by leading Chicago play- ering like horse-traders, c) a star-vehicle for two Save your NetFlix for the upcoming snowbound rush, rush to see this production. If you know ers, all in top form: veterans Kevin Gudahl aged hams and assorted young hamlets or d) all evenings and indulge yourself in these late-sum- Sweeney Todd only from Tim Burton’s stylish (Judge Turpin), George Keating (Pirelli), of the above. What’s certain is that the concept mer days to the pleasures of a familiar classic but woefully misinterpreted film, do not wait: Heidi Kettenring (Beggar Woman) and George of the royal family representing “the world in made new. rush to see this production. If you’ve only Andrew Wolff (Beadle Bamford) along with small” was never more labored than in this inti- seen Sweeney Todd in the opera house, or in relative new-comers Emily Rohm (Johanna), mate look at the household of England’s Henry the eccentric reduction in which 12 actors William Travis Taylor (Anthony) and Jonah II and France’s Eleanor of Aquitaine, and that its played all the roles and musical instruments, Rawitz, a real boy playing the boy Toby and frequent revivals, even today, still rely heavily or even in Porchlight Music Theatre’s intimate singing as a boy soprano. on the mannered performances of Peter O’Toole staging, then rush to see this production. The production designs also are exception- and Katherine Hepburn in the 1968 film. Drury Lane has rendered Sweeney Todd as al, with a long, linear two-level set slashing Fortunately, Idle Muse Theatre’s mission man- it is meant to be: a full-blooded (no pun in- diagonally across the stage from audience left dates fresh approaches to repertoire grown tended), complex and gripping work of musi- to far off-stage on the right. Even the light- mossy with age and popularity. Under Evan cal theater—NOT opera, thanks very much— ing grid becomes part of it. For the pie and Jackson’s direction, a narrative too-often or- brought richly to life in a lavish-yet-stark barber shops, scenic designer Kevin Depinet chestrated as a virtual two-hander has been re- staging with no corners cut. Rachel Rockwell borrows with variations the cube concept of configured to reflect the ensemble ethos unique is the praiseworthy director and choreogra- the original production. The visual elements to Chicago’s storefront circuit. Oh, mommy and pher of the 27-person cast, with astonish- are completed by Jesse Klug’s surprisingly hot daddy Plantagenet still dominate the action, ing musical direction by Roberta Duchak. lighting, Mike Tutaj’s blood-dripping projec- but no longer are the other players in the game Clocking at two hours and 45 minutes (with tions and Theresa Ham’s wonderfully textured reduced to near-identical brats to be shoved intermission), this taut production is true and detailed costumes (which set the time around by scheming relatives. In this produc- to the Sondheim-Wheeler original in every period in the 1840s) amplified by Rick Jar- tion, all three sons—petulant John, gay Richard word spoken and note sung, and faithful to vie’s wig and make-up designs. and brooding Geoffrey—are endowed with per- Jonathan Tunick’s brilliant original orchestra- Simply no question about it: this Sweeney sonalities as boldly-etched as that of their sire, tions, even reduced for a nine-piece orchestra Todd is a show of superlatives offering sensa- closely followed by that of their chief adversary, (outstanding under conductor Ben Johnson). tional bang for modest bucks. If you’ve never the teenage King Philip of France. Downplaying the show’s early industrial age trekked out to Oakbrook Terrace, this is your The women aren’t as lucky. Scholars agree that conceits, Rockwell chooses to emphasize the reason. Really. Eleanor was an extraordinary women for her time ageless and more universal plague of corrupt (or any other, for that matter) making it only justice. appropriate that Goldman reserve his choicest zingers for her, even if it leaves poor princess Nathan Pease in The Lion in Winter. Photo Alais—whose marriage to an English prince is to courtesy of Idle Muse Theatre seal the treaty between the countries (and guar- Sweeney Todd. Photo by Brett matinees at 3 p.m.). Beiner First Folio’s All performances take place on the grounds Hepburn tribute of the Mayslake Peabody Estate, which is owned and operated by the Forest Preserve starts Sept. 14 District of DuPage County. Indoor shows are First Folio Theatre, at Mayslake Peabody Es- presented in Mayslake hall, a 30-room Tudor tate, 31st St. & Rt. 83, will present the one- Revival style mansion originally built by coal woman show Tea at Five written by Matthew baron Francis S. Peabody. Free parking is avail- Lombardo. This tale stars Melissa Carlson as able on the grounds. legendary actress Katharine Hepburn. Based Tickets are $20-37; call 630-986-8067 or on Hepburn’s book, Me: Stories of My Life, Tea visit http://www.firstfolio.org. at Five runs Sept. 14 -Oct. 16 (Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sunday CULTURE CLUB SPOTLIGHT

If you’re a fan of Sordid Lives and Southern Baptist Sissies, then don’t miss Del Shores’ Sordid Confessions. The mastermind playwright/screenwriter/comedian behind those mirthful examinations of grotesque South- ern culture lets loose in his unfiltered one- man show that details his early whoring years and who in Hollywood is no picnic as a colleague. Del Shores’ Sordid Confes- sions plays 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 30, at Mary’s Attic, 5400 N. Clark. Tickets are $20. Call 800-595-4849 or visit http://www. delshores.net. Photo of Shores by Rosemary Alexander. WINDY CITY TIMES Aug. 24, 2011 27 THEATER REVIEW THEATER REVIEW wooden with his acting skills to make you truly care for his dilemma of royal duty versus the Strangers The Student Prince longings of his heart. Book and Lyrics: Dorothy Donnelly Much more animated and heart-string-pulling and Romance and Hugh Wheeler; is Danielle M. Knox as the lover-struck waitress Playwright: Barbara Lhota Music: Sigmund Romberg Kathie, who can more than hold her own among At: Strangeloop Theatre at At: Light Opera Works at a group of carousing college students (and right- Trap Door, 1655 W. Cortland Ave. Cahn Auditorium, fully pull the audience’s focus away from them Phone: 773-757-6689;$15 600 Emerson St., Evanston and onto herself). Knox is also vocally adept for Runs through: Sept. 18 Phone: 847-869-6300; $32-$92 the role, scaling the heights well with Bennett Runs through: Aug. 28 in tow. BY MARY SHEN BARNIDGE In terms of plot, there’s not a lot with its

BY SCOTT C. MORGAN creaky story of a duty-bound prince who relishes When the slinky siren with the Dixie-fried accent living a normal student’s life as talked up by tu- in Strangers, the first in this evening of one- American operettas used to be all the rage on tor Dr. Engel (a rather stiff Bill Stone). But all act plays, tells the Boston Transit guard that her Broadway when the 19th century passed over of the music and dancing helps to propel things name is Scarlett and he gives his name (in flu- into the 20th century. But then their jazzier and along, as does the invaluable comic timing of ent Roxbury) as Rhett, we immediately start to brasher musical theater cousins started stealing Dale Benson as the prince’s prissy and doddery wonder what game they are playing. Romance, away the limelight and the crowds when the late aging valet Lutz. Without Benson’s great comic the second on this double bill, likewise piques 1920s and ’30s rolled around. contributions to whip up audience laughter, this our curiosity right away by proposing two unau- One of the final few successful flowerings of Student Prince would have been a slog to get thorized occupants, one toting a suitcase, seek- American operetta was Sigmund Romberg’s 1924 through. ing shelter in a deserted church during the wee Stacie Barra and Timothy C. Amos in Romance. Broadway operetta The Student Prince, which Though none of the supporting characters hours of a snowy Christmas Eve. boasted a longer original Broadway run than the reach the characteristic heights as Benson’s up- Unlike most impatient young playwrights on seminal landmark musical Show Boat (608 per- pity valet, they get the job done, more or less. the trail of a meet-cute, however, Barbara Lhota Internalized emotion is also at the core of Doug formances to 572). The classic operetta is still This is how one can view Light Opera Works’ Stu- reveals her secrets gradually, each new piece of Long’s direction in this Strangeloop Theatre pro- remembered thanks to a 1950s film adaptation dent Prince revival: reliably fizzy entertainment, information serving as another clue—but only duction, enabling its four young actors to skirt the potential precocity of their material. Stacie featuring Mario Lanza’s vocals and its rousing if nothing extremely fresh or new. one—to the dramatic conflict. The husband and score (especially the much-reprised “Drinking wife in the train station are, indeed, engaging Barra and Timothy C. Amos, in particular, bring to Romance’s mismatched refugees a conviction, Song” which was recently used to hawk Dasani in role-play therapy—but what is the recent loss water in TV commercials). that has them searching for comfort in fantasy coupled with ingenuous charm, that deftly con- ceals the unanswered questions in what is more For its fourth rendition of The Student Prince, scenarios and where did they obtain the pass- Light Opera Works has whipped up a frothily fun a sketch than a finished play to leave us wanting The words employed for their improv exercises? The production. Director/choreographer Rudy Ho- to know more of these characters before they Student white-tie suit visible beneath the parka worn by genmiller has a grand time moving about the part company as they must. Prince. the drunken intruder in our house of worship show’s uniformed Heidelberg college students Theatergoers familiar with Lhota’s previous Photo by hints at a wedding gone sour, but what’s the and southern German beer garden waitresses work can attest to her penchant for love sto- Rich story on the austere woman clad in expensively- in this wonderfully traditional production fea- tailored funereal black? (“You’re not a nun, are ries of the happily-ever-after kind. Though so Foreman far best known for her sword-and-cloak romps turing Jeff Hendry’s brocade-filled plush period you?” the jilted groom asks warily.) costumes and Tom Burch’s oh-so Germanic sets. The intimacy necessary to bring off this pair in collaboration with the Babes With Blades troupe, Strangers & Romance affirm her skill at As the romantically torn college-age Prince of two-handers (whose running time together, Karl Franz, William Bennett certainly delivers with intermission, comes to a bare 100 min- navigating the complexities of contemporary gender dynamics as well. when it comes to the vocal goods (and he’s cer- utes) would be impossible in a performance tainly not bad to look at with his boyish and space much bigger than the Trap Door garage. fresh-faced features). Too bad Bennett is too

“★★★★ this infectious new musical could get belly laughs from a corpse” —Time Out Chicago In the “delivers fun to die for… Sarah Ruhl brings her two actor-singers and ace musicians” Tony-nominated Broadway —Chicago Sun-Times Next Room hit home to Chicago. or the vibrator play This smart and scintillating “n ot to be missed comedy sets ablaze old- tic fashioned notions of female these two pros $ Kets by Sarah Ruhl never miss a beat” 25–30 sexuality, intimacy and —Northwest Indiana Times marriage at the dawn of the age of electricity. “exuberant ” —Chicagocritic.com directed by “would no doubt Sandy Shinner maKe mel brooKs Begins September 9 giggle ” TICKETS: giddily—New City call 773.871.3000 or TTY 773.871.0682 “a campy new or visit whodunit” victorygardens.org —Chicago Tribune extended by popular demand! 312.595.5600 www.chicagoshakes.com In the historic Biograph Theater, 2433 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago, IL 28 Aug. 24, 2011 WINDY CITY TIMES www.whitelightningcinema.com —Support your local queer filmmaker: Out writer-director Nathan Adloff has finished KNIGHT shooting his narrative LGBT-themed dramedy Nate & Margaret and has created a Kickstarter AT campaign in order to raise completion funds THE to finish post production. The campaign goes through Sept. 4 and will only be funded if the MOVIES $6,000 goal is met. http://kck.st/oeXdS7 Check out my archived reviews at http:// www.windycitymediagroup.com or http:// www.knightatthemovies.com. Readers can leave feedback at the latter website. By Richard Knight, Jr. Our Idiot Brother; Brighton Rock; From left: Elizabeth Banks, Paul Rudd and Emily Mortimer in Our Idiot Brother. Photo courtesy of Nicole Rivelli and The Weinstein Company film notes tender approach to life. (One particularly funny looked good on paper—and when Riley plays “If you put your trust out there, people will rise sequence finds Ned about to embark in a three- up to the dim-witted, love-starved Rose (Andrea to the occasion” is the optimistic but rather in- way with a male-female couple but gracefully Riseborough), the luckless waitress who has be- nocent philosophy of Ned (Paul Rudd), a latter- walking away when he realizes that he simply come the unlikely key element in a murder that day hippie with a Jesus beard. Ned’s sunny out- isn’t physically attracted to men. “Just ‘cause Riley has committed, you fall as hard as she look has led to a series of disastrous personal you’re straight doesn’t make you homophobic,” does. However, the amorality of the character consequences, the latest of which is selling pot he gently explains to the male half of the cou- is unevenly defined at the outset—both in the to a uniformed policeman. ple.) script and by Riley—and Pinkie’s sudden ruth- Once released from prison Ned discovers that The movie—conceived by Peretz and his sis- lessness seems to come out of left field. life has quickly moved on in his absence; he ter, Evgenia (which she scripted with her hus- Joffe’s decision to move the action to 1964 eventually finds himself living, separately, with band, David Schisgall)—was put together with (at the height of the Mods and Rockers craze Hugh Dancy in Our Idiot Brother. Photo cour- each of his self-involved sisters. They make no Rudd in mind for Ned (and his performance is in England) gives the movie a stylish panache; tesy of Nicole Rivelli and The Weinstein Com- bones about referring to him as a “retard” and pitch-perfect). We get to alternately pity, scorn however, it adds nothing to the sometimes con- pany their derisive definition of their sibling provides and laugh at Ned for his quaint hippie idealism, voluted plot that sometimes left me feeling as the title for director Jesse Peretz’s charming and and then swing around to Ned’s point of view as out of the loop as poor Rose. Helping out the sometimes hilarious film,Our Idiot Brother. each of the self-absorbed sisters gets her par- proceedings (as always) is Helen Mirren, who Elizabeth Banks, Zooey Deschanel and Emily ticular “comeuppance.” It’s a whisper-thin con- convincingly plays an aging, wised-up prosti- TRIAL from page 16 Mortimer play the three modern-day Gorgons. ceit, stocked with characters and hipster situa- tute trying to warn Rose off Pinkie (to no avail). tions just this side of stereotype, but there are John Hurt, Andy Serkis and a host of other ac- Banks is Miranda, who is desperately trying to ers, to “come out.” It was similar to “let- enough knowing laughs, heart (including a dog tors with thick Brightonesque brogues populate break into the upper leagues of journalism via a ting one’s hair down.” During her arrest with the saddest eyes since Marley & Me) and the movie, giving this seamy little but enter- gossipy tell-all article for Vanity Fair; Deschanel and subsequent trial, Frances had been quirky performances to make Our Idiot Brother a taining B picture some welcome acting gravitas. is Natalie, a bisexual standup comic who cheats forced to drop her hairpins. All of Chicago on her lawyer girlfriend Cindy (Rashida Jones) no-brainer for film audiences. now knew she was a he. with Christian (Hugh Dancy); and Mortimer is Film notes: Interviewed by the press, Frances claimed Liz, the housewife who frets over her kids and Graham Green’s tough, noir-like novel Brighton —White Lightning Cinema will screen the that she “wanted to live a quiet life” and insufferable husband (a particularly venal Steve Rock, published in England in 1938, made an rarely seen short filmOde by indie director “had no desire for a public life of any kind,” Coogan) to the point of distraction. overnight star of Richard Attenborough in its Kelly Reichardt (Meek’s Cutoff, Wendy & Lucy) but Frances had no intention of abandon- None of the sisters wants Ned living with them 1947 film adaptation. Attenborough played the Thursday, Aug. 28, at the Nightingale, 1084 ing the spotlight now that she was bask- but after a stint with mom (played with good- handsome but dangerously disturbed sociopath N. Milwaukee, at 7 p.m. Ode, which has LGBT ing in it. Within days, Frances headlined humored daffiness by Shirley Knight), each be- Pinkie Brown, who stops at nothing to further themes, was based on Herman Raucher’s novel at the Rialto, a burlesque theater at 336 grudgingly allows Ned into her respective world. his rise to power as an up-and-coming gangster and screenplay, which, in turn, was inspired by State Street, for $500 a week, drawing Once ensconced, however, Ned the chirpy sim- in England’s Brighton underworld. In the novel, the Bobbie Gentry classic country song “Ode to huge crowds. pleton wreaks unintended havoc on all of them Pinkie is a teenager who loathes women and the Billy Joe.” Elena Gorfinkel, assistant professor Unfortunately for Frances, although the while in the process showing them up with his idea of sex, and there are strong implications of art history & film studies at the University courts had upheld her rights as a wife, cheery optimism and unabashed emotional hon- that he is a closeted gay; however, these traits of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, will introduce the film. maintained the right of the two men to esty. were erased from both the 1947 movie and a marry one another, and acknowledged her He keeps putting his foot in his mouth at just new version from director Roland Joffe, who has innocence in the murder of Richard Tesmer, the wrong moment, leaving his sisters mortified. also scripted a new adaptation of the novel. the Chief of Police and the Mayor of Chi- No matter how dire the circumstances, though, Joffe’s casting of the darkly handsome Sam cago joined forces to stop her. nothing seems to dim Ned’s hopeful outlook and Riley (who memorably played the doomed goth Frances had been hired at “a huge sal- rock singer Ian Curtis in Control) must have ary” to perform what the press described as an “immoral and offensive” act. When DaveOuanoPhotography.com asked by reporters, Mayor Dever said, “It Events • Fashion • Fitness is to be regretted that any audiences could be found to view such a person or that any management would cater to such perverted minds.” Police Chief Collins made a promise to the “‘good citizens’” of Chicago: “I shall halt this indecent spectacle, not only because it is an affront to all good citizens and an outrage to public morals … but also because it is highly improper that Thomp- son should be allowed to capitalize his perverted mentality. The police will keep him off the Chicago stage.” Chief Colllins was good to his word. The Rialto’s management broke Frances’ contract, she left her singing career, and she was never heard of again. Note: The sources are listed in the on- ModelMayhem.com/DaveOuano line version of this article; see http:// Facebook: Dave Ouano Photography www.WindyCityMediaGroup.com. [email protected] Brighton Rock. WINDY CITY TIMES Aug. 24, 2011 29 Artist Adam Guerino on ‘We Are Halsted’

By Carrie Maxwell has built a career as a writer, stand-up comedian, MC/host, cartoonist and producer. So how Openly gay local producer/artist Adam Guerino did he get started? While he was recording a is taking his expertise into the fundraising realm musician friend of his five years ago, someone with his show, “We Are Halsted,” which will take said to him that he was funny and he should be place at the Center on Halsted, 3656 N. Halsted, a comedian. He laughed off that person’s com- Wed., Aug. 31, 7-10 p.m. ments; however, after much prodding (helped by The variety show—a part of the Lakeview the fact that the person was a booker at that Safety and Inclusion Coalition’s (made up of, bar where he was doing the recording), Guerino among others, business owners, young adults began to do stand-up comedy and has been per- and public officials) efforts to build bridges in forming ever since. Becoming a producer started the community—will cost five dollars to attend when he began calling venues to get himself and include an auction and a bevy of live enter- booked; from that he started to rent out theater tainment. spaces and to do publicity. Comedians, dancers, musicians and even a cir- As for Guerino’s plans for the future, he’d like cus burlesque performer will join Guerino (the to accomplish much. He wants to have a couple host of the event) on stage. “It’s not going to be ongoing shows and produce quarterly events like what you would imagine at most fundraisers,” “We Are Halsted” that are financially successful PUTTING THE so he can write either a book, screenplay or play during the day. Guerino added, “I hope to make ‘We Are Halsted’ an annual or semiannual event. Sometimes awareness needs continual remind- HER IN HISTORY ing, and I’m always looking for more causes to donate my time and talent.” “If volunteerism or donating and charity is something that you are not usually used to; this show is a really great place to start. It’s not When Jackie Bross, a World War II machinist, was arrested for dressing like a man, going to have that stuffy, sterile smell that you ensuing protests pressured the City Council to reform the 1851 dress law. might imagine a fundraiser would be like. It’s going to be a fun variety show that just so happens to help people that are less fortunate.” Discover the city through the lens of gender, sexuality and nonconformity To buy tickets for the event go to http:// www.centeronhalsted.org/coh/calendar/ at Out in Chicago — a groundbreaking exhibition that explores 150 years newevents-details.cfm?ID=1789. To find out of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) Chicagoans and their more about Guerino go to http://www.ad- amguerino.com. quests for self-identity, family, community and political action.

Adam Guerino. Photo courtesy of Guerino Lauper plans to tour, OPEN THROUGH MARCH 26, 2012 Guerino said. “This is going to be over-the-top, release live DVD GENERAL ADMISSION $14 FREE FOR MEMBERS fun and grounded. I’ve put a lot of care into Gay icon Cyndi Lauper will release the making sure that all ethnic backgrounds and live concert DVD To Memphis, With Love on sexualities are represented with the performers.” Megaforce Records Oct. 25. The goal of the event is to build awareness To Memphis, With Love—taped earlier of LGBT youth homelessness issues and raise this year at The Warehouse in Memphis— money for The Crib and other local youth home- features special guests Allen Toussaint, less shelters. “It is a response to what was hap- Tracy Nelson and Jonny Lang. The track pening in the community with a lot of people listing includes blues songs such as “Down pointing fingers at people that I thought were So Long” as well as classics such as “She victims,” Guerino explained. “They didn’t really Bop” and “Girls Just Wanna Have Fun.” know what the facts were. They were calling In addition, this fall Lauper will embark homeless youth outside gangs from other neigh- a co-headlining tour with New Orleans mu- borhoods and I don’t think these people were sic legend Dr. John titled “Cyndi Lauper & Clark Street at North Avenue 312.642.4600 www.chicagohistory.org doing any research and it was kind of disgusting Dr. John: From Memphis to Mardi Gras.” how people were looking at each other.” The 14-city tour will kick off Oct. 7 at the With this fundraiser Guerino wants to give House of Blues in Orlando, Fla., and end homeless youth a voice. That voice will be show- Oct. 28 at the Paramount Theatre in Aurora, PRESENTING SPONSORS: cased in between the variety-show acts with two Ill. youth speakers telling their stories to the audi- For more information or to purchase tick- ence. Currently, there are 15,000 homeless youth ets visit http://www.CyndiLauper.com. in the city of Chicago; 20 percent are LGBT— twice the national average of 10 percent. Guerino has been able to bring to his first- hand experience as a homeless youth, first in LEAD CORPORATE SPONSOR: Hawaii and then in Chicago, to the table: “I moved to Hawaii when I was 19 after dropping out of college. ... I thought, ‘Why not move to a tropical island where I didn’t know anybody,’ but things fell through, which was a terrifying experience. Then I moved back to Chicago because I didn’t like Hawaii that much. I was bouncing around the city so I think that having experienc- es like that makes me appreciate the terror that goes through homeless youth that much more GO BEHIND THE SCENES since I’ve been there before.” Guerino went on SCAN THE TAG to say that he has strong compassion for people QR Tag by EventCode.info who are in different stages of life than he is, and that he doesn’t see barriers between himself and the extremely wealthy or the incredibly poor. Since his years as a homeless youth, Guerino 30 Aug. 24, 2011 WINDY CITY TIMES One (gay) day with Anne Hathaway Actress talks gay ‘pod,’ WCT: And now, gay relationships are finally Catwoman role and recognized in this state. AH: Yes, yes! Round of applause for New York! NYC marriage stories I was so happy. I couldn’t believe it. All the pic- By Chris Azzopardi tures of the couples who have been together for so many years—some people for over 60 years, Gays adore Anne Hathaway for more than her like those two ladies that got married first— sweetheart sensibility and frumpy-to-fashion- adorable! And that wonderful couple who had a able underdog role in The Devil Wears Prada. profile done on them—one gentleman is in his She’s practically an honorary member of the 80s and the other is in his 70s and they’ve been community, contributing to the “It Gets Bet- together for over 65 years or something like that ter” project, receiving an award from the Human and they met at Juilliard—it’s just beautiful. Rights Campaign and quitting Catholicism for Long overdue but so welcome. Now the rest of her gay brother. America, get on it! Enough with your nonsense Also, consider the super gay trajectory of her and foolishness. career: Brokeback Mountain and, as reported, an WCT: What can people take away from One upcoming role as Judy Garland in the gay icon’s Day? biopic and a stint on Glee, as Kurt’s lesbian AH: It’s up there with the classic love stories. aunt. It requires you to open your heart and feel, and Jim Sturgess and Anne Hathaway in One Day. Hathaway is cast as Emma Morley in her lat- a lot of movies don’t mind if you feel. I person- est movie, the lovely screen adaptation of Da- ally think there are few things more satisfying AH: I was sent the script first and then, as WCT: You really had to convince director vid Nicholls’ best-selling novel One Day, which in life than crying in a dark room with strangers. soon as I read the script, I was deeply in love Lone Scherfig to cast you in this film. What chronicles her relationship with Dexter Mayhew That sounds a little funny, but go to see One Day with it, and then I read the book and I fell even was the casting process like for The Dark (Jim Sturgess of Across the Universe) on the at 4 o’ clock on a Wednesday and you’ll know more deeply in love with the whole idea. Knight Rises, and how would you describe same day every year for two decades. what I’m talking about. WCT: Do you think if Emma and Dexter had your interpretation of your character in it, The day after the premiere in New York City, WCT: Emma’s arc follows her through many hooked up in the early days their relationship Selina Kyle? the actress cheerfully breezes into a suite at the years, from college to potential motherhood. would have lasted as long? AH: I can’t talk about the interpretation, be- Waldorf Astoria, appearing so tiny you could put What about her did you cling to throughout AH: No, not at all. Definitely not. It’s one of cause that is just a hermetically sealed secret— her in your pocket. Also, lesbians everywhere all those years? the bittersweet parts of the story—they couldn’t I mean, if you want to take on [director] Chris just might want to after seeing her sexily vacu- AH: The book! I clung to the book—tightly. have gotten together a day before they do. Nolan, you’re more than welcome to, but I’m um-sealed in a vinyl cat suit for The Dark Knight [Laughs] The thing that I clung to about Emma WCT: Emma and Dexter change from year intimidated. But the process for getting Dark Rises, which she’s currently filming. When Ha- was that she’s a survivor. She is somebody who to year, but there’s still something about Knight Rises was: Chris met with a bunch of girls thaway sits down, she’s her usual bubbly self, gets up when you knock her down, she is some- them that stays the same. What about you and then he called the list down to do screen discussing the most significant day in her life, body who wants to grow, she’s somebody who do you see changing most from year to year? tests, so everyone with an XX chromosome in her upcoming role as Catwoman (as much as she wants to be her best self, she’s somebody who, And what is something that always stays the Hollywood was just literally sitting on pins and can, anyway) and the enduring power of love for contrary to what she might profess, believes same? needles for three-and-a-half months, and then I all people. that things are going to turn out OK. AH: I’m happier. I get happier every year. I understood he screen tested a few of us. Windy City Times: Even though this is a sto- WCT: How did you bring Emma to life? find that as I get older, I take in life more and I felt bad because we tested, I think, on ry about a straight couple, how do you think AH: The accent was key. It informs so much I think that’s making me a better person. As I Thursday and the Golden Globes was that Sun- it can resonate with a gay audience? about Emma and Dexter’s relationship that we get older I, funny enough, become more trust- day—and I didn’t mean to, but wherever I went Anne Hathaway: Love is universal. Anybody don’t necessarily talk about in the movie. ing, but I trust fewer people. The people that I that whole weekend I just kept bumping into who has a heart can relate to what it is to have To understand her education, one of the do trust, it’s gone much deeper. What stays the Chris and I’m like, “I swear I’m not stalking it broken again and again and again, and like I things I did was I tried to read as many books same? I’m a really curious person. I believe that you!” said, that’s universal—gay, straight, question- that David mentions by name in the novel—but imagination is not something you grow out of, A few days later I was back in Brooklyn, and ing, whatever you are. I’m a really, really good reader and they were a and I find that stays the same. Oh, and I love my manager called me and I answered the phone WCT: Do you know a gay couple that has little arduous. [Laughs] I much preferred Dex- books! and she goes, “Meow.” And I was like, “Haha! that type of enduring relationship like Emma ter’s [reading material], like The Face magazine. WCT: How quickly did you and Jim click? Oh no, wait! Really?!” And she said, “Yes!” One and Dexter? And then I just went to England as early as I AH: It’s very hard not to get along with Jim. of the best days in my life. And I really should AH: Oh my God, yes—I went to Vassar! I have could and went up to every single person that If you don’t get along with Jim, there’s some- know that date. January… something. [Laughs] like a pod now, and we’ve all been in each oth- I could meet from Yorkshire and asked them as thing seriously wrong with you. We have a lot WCT: Do you believe in a soul mate? er’s lives for 10 years—and they don’t admit it, many questions as I could. of friends in common, and you know when there AH: Of course I do. What a drab life you would but I have gay friends that I think are secretly WCT: Were you familiar with the book be- are those people that when their name is men- have if you didn’t. I don’t know that I necessar- in love with each other. fore you got the part? tioned everything stops, people grab you by the ily believe that traditional romantic view that shoulder, they peer deep, deep, deep into your there’s one person out there for everyone. I eyes and they think they’re talking to your soul think that we have many soul mates. But I think but really they’re just looking kind of bugged out there is probably one soul out there that lights and they just shake you a little bit and describe up your soul more than any other one, and I their love for this person? That happened to me think that’s just what a soul mate is—someone when I told people I was working with Jim, so I who lights you up and who you light up in re- knew I was going to be meeting someone pretty turn. awesome. And he did not disappoint. Now I’m WCT: But traditionally, it’s said that we only one of those “bugged out, I’m gonna take you have one soul mate and if you don’t meet and tell you to like Jim Sturgess!” people. them, we’ll never be satisfied. WCT: Talk about the costuming in the mov- AH: That’s like the most saddest thing ever! ie. So, no! The idea of having a soul mate is truth- AH: In the Persian scenes, everything I wore ful, but to limit it to one is a mistake. And by was vintage or recreated from vintage and the the way, my friends are my soul mates. My dog is look was informed by the book. You know, we my fucking soul mate! didn’t have a very large budget on this movie, WCT: Do you have a date that’s as signifi- especially considering all the change that had cant as the one in the book? to happen—you would expect over 20 years to AH: Aug. 3, 2001. That’s when Princess Diaries have a huge budget but we had geniuses work- came out, and that date changed my life. Every ing. I don’t know how they did it. They literally Aug. 3 for the past 10 years, I just give thanks spun gold from pennies. to the universe—a big, big openhearted thank WCT: Who are your favorite designers? you—because that was the day that my dreams AH: My favorite designers are Valentino, of came true for me. There’s a lot of aspects to course, and Isabel Marant, Vivienne Westwood— my life that are very real, but there are a lot of gosh there’s so many—and Sarah Burton for Al- aspects to my life that are very fairytale, and exander McQueen. Thank you so much for giving that was the day when my fairytale started. How us Kate Middleton’s wedding dress. It’s been a embarrassing would it be if it were actually Aug. Anne Hathaway. Photo by Giles Keyte highlight of this new decade! 5? [Laughs] Aug. 24, 2011 WINDY CITY TIMES

Theatre, 3145 N. Sheffield. leased but, finally, digitally. This time around, Dave Stewart of Eu- the groundbreaking event is providing aid to rythmics fame teams with Africa via the George Harrison Fund for UNICEF. Nicks on her album In Your On Aug. 1, 1971, a roster of A-list musicians Dreams. The track “Cheaper united at Madison Square Garden for this cause, Than Free” also appears on spearheaded by the late George Harrison. Clap- his outing The Blackbird ton, Ringo Starr, Leon Russell and Bad Finger are Diaries. On his effort, Mar- present, but gay soul-rocker Billy Preston steals POP tina McBride, Colbie Cail- the show with “That’s the Way God Planned lat and The Secret Sisters It.” Prior to the actual concert, it was unsure MAKING cameo on “All Messed Up,” whether Bob Dylan would actually perform, but SENSE “One Way Ticket to the he comes through with numbers like “Blowin’ in Moon” and “Bulletproof the Wind” and “Just Like a Woman.” The Concert by David Byrne Vest” respectively. Stewart for Bangladesh is available now on iTunes. with Tony Peregrin offers Eric Clapton-worthy Out and proud Christian artist Shawn Thomas bluesy rock on “Beast breaks out of the habit of performing only in Called Fame” and has the places of worship as his Live & Unashamed show dark western ballad “The comes to The Skokie Theatre, 7924 N. Lincoln, Well.” Skokie, on Sunday, Aug. 28. Thomas’s double- Turn up the soft lighting; the ultimate diva is The double-disc The Dave disc set, Covered and Created, combines pop back with the 10-track collection What Matters Stewart Songbook: Volume 1 was released in (“You Don’t Have to Do This Alone”), dance Most: Barbra Streisand Sings the Lyrics of Alan 2008. Here, his collaborations with greats like (“Hands Up”) and contemporary Christian (“The and Marilyn Bergman. The material is set to Sinead O’Connor, Shakespears Sister, Tom Petty, Lion and the Lamb”). Covered and Created opens lush, perfected orchestration as the icon stamps Sarah McLachlan and, of course, Eurythmics are with his rendition of Cher’s “Different Kind of these standards with her trademark delivery. celebrated. After working on the Alfie soundtrack Love Song.” The album’s lead single, a dance But would Streisand have it any other way? together, Stewart is reuniting with Mick Jagger take on Mariah Carey’s megahit “Hero,” is a free She hilariously had a microphone painted white to form the supergroup SuperHeavy with Joss download at http://www.shawnthomasonline. without approval for a guest spot on The Oprah Stone, Damian Marley and A.R. Rahman. com. Winfrey Show. Barbra Streisand. The Concert for Bangladesh is being re-re- Her remake of “The Windmills of Your Mind” from The Thomas Crown Affair is the highlight here. “That Face” has a horn arrangement and relaxed jazz groove to it; otherwise, What Mat- ters Most favors hushed strings to focus on Stre- isand’s signature voice with hopes to leave the listener teary-eyed. What Matters Most is out now via Columbia Records. Streisand’s movie My Mother’s Curse is due out in the spring. Celebrating its career’s fifth decade,Blondie still has it. The New York-based outfit’s ninth studio album, Panic of Girls, is due stateside Sept. 13. The only remaining original members THIS WEEK’S DEALS are Debbie Harry, Chris Stein and drummer ex- traordinaire Clem Burke. Panic of Girls opens with a driving beat on The “daily deal” site with our roots, vision and focus the electro-pop number “D-Day.” It is a revisit to the warm reggae influenced sound of the linked to the LGBT community chart-topper “Tide Is High” on “The End The End,” “Girlie Girlie” and “Sunday Smile.” The single-worthy “Love Doesn’t Frighten Me” is up- www.QponChicago.com beat with a sing-along chorus, combining rock and keyboards, while “China Shoes” is ready for Proud QponChicago Partners: adult-alternative radio. Blondie takes to the stage at The House of Blues, 329 N. Dearborn, on Wed., Sept. 7. In previous tours, the New York genre-deviants have saluted The Ramones by doing “Pet Cem- etery” and Michael Jackson with “Don’t Stop til You Get Enough.” Harry currently is involved in the RockStars of Science campaign. AIDS Foundation of Chicago Run/Walk October 1 www.americasdog.com Another enduring favorite is Stevie Nicks. www.aidsrunwalk.org 5 locations thruout Chicago Her latest, In Your Dreams, finds her in top form 312-334-0964 (Navy Pier, Lincoln Park, Loop, O’Hare) with timeless tunes. Once the tame introduction on “Moonlight (In a Vampire’s Dream)” ends, our heroine is at her best over lively guitar chords. The beautiful “Italian Summer” is sweeping with its strings and drums. Sky WNBA Games The material of Nicks and her legendary band, August 26, 28 & Sept. 4 Fleetwood Mac, has been covered by many. “Ev- www.wnba.com/sky 312-994-5980 erywhere” has been redone by Chaka Khan and club outfit LnM Projekt with Bonnie Bailey on vocals. Oh his latest Ordinary Alien, Boy George Babes With Blades Theatre Company AIDS Legal Council of Chicago remakes “Go Your Own Way.” Glee dedicated an www.babeswithblades.org Orient Express Benefit August 24 episode to the magnificent opus Rumors. Plus 773-904-0391 www.aidslegal.com the show’s lesbian character serenaded her 312-427-8990 friend with “Landslide” in another episode. The Irish family group The Coors had done a version In marketing As featured in of “Dreams.” partnership with BoysTownBlog, NBC’s the Inc.well, Red Eye, Club-ready spins of Nicks and Fleetwood Mac’s catalog have been popping up on dance label Chicago Talks, Passport Magazine, Centaur’s compilations Fortitude Weekend and BroadwayWorld.com, Chicago Pride.com the Party Groove series Gay Days Volume 7, Pride 10 and 11 and Cherry Volume 4. There are “Ru- For more information or to list your business, please contact us at mors” that a proper collection full of Nicks and [email protected] Fleetwood Mac covers will be out this fall on Centaur. Keep an eye out for this set on http:// 773-562-3311 or 773-387-2394 www.theoutclub.com. Need more of Fleetwood Mac? Lindsey Bucking- ham has a show on Sunday, Sept. 18 at The Vic 32 Aug. 24, 2011 WINDY CITY TIMES GAY SOFTBALL WORLD SERIES Ben Cohen: Rugby star and LGBT ally

By Tony Peregrin a gay or lesbian teen? BC: I’d sit then down and talk to them about Ben Cohen—rugby star, calendar model and vo- the long-range effects that bullying can have cal straight ally to the gay community—will over people’s lives. There was a lad, and this be a featured guest at the opening ceremonies came through a friend of ours, her son was being for the 35th annual Gay Softball World Series bullied so bad that he sort of shut down inside, (GSWS), a six-day, multilevel tournament that is and he started to bleed out of his back end. expected to draw 4,000 fans and athletes to the And he wasn’t gay, but he must have seemed Chicago area at the end of the month. gay, or different somehow, and his mom literally “I went to Chicago in ’97 to watch a game came within a nanosecond of her son commit- … at Wrigley Field, is that the name? We don’t ting suicide. really get it over here. Actually, we call it ‘round- I think it’s not just about telling the bully that ers’ in England. I like it. I like any sport, to tell such behavior leads to emotional scars [for the you the truth—it will be good fun,” said Cohen, victim]. We need to look at why people bully, who retired from professional rugby earlier this and start by looking at their home lives. Is this year in order to focus on The Ben Cohen StandUp what’s happening at home? Is this considered Foundation, Inc. the world’s first foundation to normal behavior in that environment? raise awareness and funding to combat LGBT WCT: Not everyone may be aware that you bullying and homophobia in sports. have a 33-percent hearing loss in each ear Cohen might be off the pitch—that’s “field” in (which means you are clinically deaf) and rugby parlance—but that doesn’t mean he’s lost that you suffer from tinnitus—a permanent his hustle: This spring, he completed the first leg ringing in the ears. How has overcoming your of his “Acceptance Tour 2011” (look for a second hearing loss made you a better communicator tour to launch in the U.S. this fall), and earlier overall? this month he launched www.standupfounda- BC: I think it’s something you learn. I’m actu- tion.com, a site that is part e-commerce (profits ally probably even more deaf now! [Laughs] In Ben Cohen. PR pics from StandUp merchandise benefit the founda- a quiet room, or in a small group, it’s not too tion) and part organizational tool where indi- bad. But if there’s a lot of background noise, I viduals can log on to join the Standup “army” of can’t hear high pitches and I can’t hear s’s and volunteers. The first day standupfoundation.com t’s—all I hear is “hmmm, hmmm” when people teers for that. Ultimately, right now, we’re look- if I mind that gay people are looking at me like went live was Aug. 3; the site crashed due to the talk. Fortunately, I am in a sport where you have ing to support the foundation, and to get as that, and I always say “No.” It’s about break- overwhelming number of visitors. to find different ways to communicate. It comes many people as we can aware of the Standup ing down stereotypes—that’s why I do it. And Windy City Times caught up with Cohen (who down to awareness, and being very aware of the Foundation brand. We want to make a difference for the foundation. The more people we get to was a bit late for the call as he was tucking people around me. So, I definitely think it has and show that bullying is not cool anymore. In follow and support us, the more of a difference in his twin daughters for the night) to discuss made me a better communicator. England it was right to be a racist in the early we can make. the bullying epidemic, how his hearing loss has WCT: Can you talk a little about the new ‘80s or ‘90s, but it’s not anymore. And we want WCT: Your Facebook page has around made him a better communicator and if he can website and its purpose and mission? to do the same for bullying. 175,000 fans—many of them gay men. Are be persuaded to donate another signed jockstrap BC: We went live yesterday, and we had a bit WCT: Did you have a hand in designing the there ever situations that arise where a fan for charity. of trouble! It was purely a matter of the volume new Standup Foundation T-shirts, Ben? steps out of bound? How do you handle that? Windy City Times: Have you ever been a vic- of people that went on there. I think it all hit at BC: It was a team effort, for sure. The founda- BC: Not one gay person that I have ever come tim of bullying? once and it crashed the system. But we’ve up- tion decided we needed a really strong emblem, across has been inappropriate. Not one. Every- Ben Cohen: I’ve never been bullied, never graded everything. As for the standup website, and that the outline of my body within the one has been very good about it. And I am very at all. Our family, all of us, we don’t bully. My we’re just looking to expand our support and our standup logo would be a strong image. Everyone grateful for that. People, when they first me, parents were very much anti-bullying. In 2000, network. at the foundation as input on everything we do. treat me with such respect. This year, I went to I lost my father to violence, actually, when he WCT: I read that with the website, you WCT: I hear that you actually enjoy be- my first pride celebration in London and every- stood up for an employee who was being at- have a small team looking to recruit a kind ing photographed, but that you like to keep one was so well-mannered and polite. tacked. of StandUp army to help spread the word, things light-hearted on set, and that some- WCT: Last year, you donated a signed jock- Some of the stories that I’ve been told from help out at events and other things. My un- times you have to remind the photographer or strap to support GMFA, a British charity that my friends [in the LGBT community], and that derstanding is that this army is still in its stylist that you’re a rugby player by trade— supports gay men’s health issues, which was I’ve heard about in the press, are just heart- infancy, but what can you tell me about your not a model. sold at auction. How much did the jockstrap breaking. goals for this team, and how can people find BC: I don’t mind doing that. I enjoy it! I’m not bring in? WCT: What would you say or do if you hap- out more information? in good shape at the moment, though. [Laughs, Ben Cohen. How much? I think it was $450. pened to catch someone in the act of bullying BC: We do events and we often need volun- pats stomach loudly] People ask me sometimes WCT: Would you consider auctioning off a personal item of clothing like that in Chicago to benefit a worthy cause? BC: [Laughs.] I don’t mind having fun and whatnot, and I don’t mind doing that—if it’s worth doing. But we want to be careful not to come across as too sleazy and to not send out the wrong message, especially regarding the foundation and all the work that we do. But look, I happen to have a fan base of people and some of them might find me attractive and it’s great that I get to do something worthwhile with that support. Ben Cohen is scheduled to appear at Side- track Tuesday, Aug. 30, 8-11 p.m. A live auction will feature some of Cohen’s “personal items” with proceeds benefiting The Ben Cohen StandUp Foundation, Inc. Cohen will also sign autographs and take pictures at the event. Opening ceremonies for the 35th Annual NAGAAA Gay Softball World Series will take place Monday, Aug. 29, at 5 p.m., at Navy Pier. 33 Aug. 24, 2011 WINDY CITY TIMES Details of the world series By Ross Forman The Chicago Cubs, a Series 2011 sponsor, will welcome representatives from the winning teams The Gay Softball World Series will be played at of all division to Wrigley Field on Sunday, Sept. multi-field complexes in suburban Schaumburg, 4 for a special recognition ceremony prior to the St. Charles and Elmhurst. There are four fields in afternoon game against the Pittsburgh Pirates. Elmhurst, five in Schaumburg and seven in St. That Sunday is also Pride Day at Wrigley Field, Charles. All fields have lights and are fenced in. sponsored by the Windy City Times, a Series 2011 media partner. The fields: —Berens Park, 493 Oaklawn Ave., Elmhurst, Talent show Ill., 60126 There will be singers, dancers, comedians and —East Side Sports, 3565 Legacy Blvd., St. more—some good, some not-so-good—at the Charles, Ill., 60174 annual Talent Show, sponsored by the North —Olympic Park, 1675 E. Old Schaumburg Rd., American Gay Amateur Athletic Association Schaumburg, Ill., 60194 (NAGAAA). The event will be held in the Grand Ballroom at the Hyatt Regency O’Hare Hotel, The Gay Softball World Series in 2010 in Columbus, Ohio. Photo from Jack Neilsen Calendar: with all proceeds going to designated Series —Monday, Aug. 29: Opening Ceremony—Navy 2011 charities: Broadway Youth Center, Illinois Pier, 5 p.m. Safe School Alliance, and The Families’ & Chil- sted, starting at 6:30 p.m. —Jeff Schoonover - Long Beach —Tuesday, Aug. 30: dren’s AIDS Network. The 2011 Hall of Fame inductees are: —Jim Szakacs - Toronto B-C-D Division softball—Elmhurst, Schaum- Drag sensation Tajma Hall will emcee the —Chuck Burlingham - Southern New England —Mike Travers - San Diego burg, St. Charles event, scheduled for Wed., Aug. 31, at 7 p.m. —Gary “Dixie” Carter - Atlanta —Wed., Aug. 31: —Michael Crocker - Atlanta Find out about all the teams in the expand- A-B-C-D Division softball—Elmhurst, Schaum- Hall of Fame dinner —David Lerma - Los Angeles ed article, online at http://www.WindyCity- burg, St. Charles The annual NAGAAA Hall of Fame dinner will —Roy Melani - Portland MediaGroup.com. Talent Show at the Hyatt Regency O’Hare be held Thursday, Sept. 1, at the Center on Hal- —Rob Papa - Philadelphia (9300 Bryn Mawr Ave., Rosemont), 7 p.m. —Thursday, Sept. 1: A-B-C-D Division softball—Elmhurst, Schaum- burg, St. Charles Master’s Division play begins. Hall of Fame Dinner at the Center on Halsted WINDY CITY (3656 N. Halsted), 6:30 p.m. —Friday, Sept. 2: TIMES A-B-C-D-Master’s Division softball—Elmhurst, Schaumburg, St. Charles —Saturday, Sept. 3: Championship games for all divisions will be played in Schaumburg. Award Ceremony, Closing Ceremonies & Street Fair, held in Boystown, 4-10 p.m. PRIDE DAY —Sunday, Sept. 4: Pride Day at Wrigley Field

Opening ceremonies The opening ceremonies will be held Monday, AT WRIGLEY Aug. 29, at Navy Pier, starting at 5 p.m. “We Sunday, Sept. 4, 2011 can’t think of a better venue and more pictur- esque setting to host the opening for the 2011 Gay Softball World Series,” Ted Cappas, president of Series 2011, said in a press release about the event. “We’ve assembled an incredible program for the evening, which will welcome our ath- MEDIA SPONSORS: letes and feature national and local entertainers Bleacher WINDY CITY alike.” TIMES nightspots The GSWS opening ceremony will be a star- tickets studded event to kick off the six-day spectacle, $50 including appearances by Leslie Jordan, Ben Co- Join us for a charitable event at the hen, Pandora Boxx, Amy Armstrong and Matthew Harvat, among others. A $10 suggested donation at the door, which Chicago Cubs vs. Pittsburgh Pirates game will benefit the Ben Cohen “Stand Up” foundation, is requested. 1:20 p.m., Sept. 4.

Closing ceremony 2011 Windy City Gay Idol The Gay Softball World Series will culminate Then, join us at the after-party at with a closing awards ceremony and street fair TJ CHERNICK in Boystown Saturday, Sept. 3, from 4-10 p.m. The event, which is presented in partnership 800 W. Belmont Ave. performs at the game and at Spin (with other Windy City Gay Idol contestants at Spin) with the Chicago Metropolitan Sports Associa- tion (CMSA), will take place on Waveland Av- 4 p.m. enue between Halsted and Broadway streets and After-party sponsored by feature local cover band Final Say and DJ Bill Bennett. “We’re proud to partner with CMSA and the www.windycitymediagroup.com/WrigleyPride Northhalsted Business Alliance to close out a week of softball and social events in Boystown,” A portion of the proceeds will benefit the following charities: Cappas said in a statement. “We have received incredible support from the community and are especially grateful to our co-sponsor, CMSA, and In partnership with Ald. James Cappleman, who understand the significance of this event for our community and our local businesses.” A $5 donation is requested, which will benefit & the Ben Cohen “Stand Up” foundation.

Chicago Cubs 34 Aug. 24, 2011 WINDY CITY TIMES

the WEEKLY DINING GUIDE IN DISH Beef ‘n Brandy The mild white fish is chipotle-marinated, pan- Restaurant and Bar seared and served atop a thyme-scented potato cake and drizzled with horseradish crema. Car- nivores will be thrilled by the pork, which is at CHOW once crispy and tender, and served with mole verde and that truly original tortilla gnocci. DOWN I knew during my appetizer course that there was no way I was going home without dessert. I TOWN thought, “If that man can do for peanut butter Ribs • Seafood • Salads • Stir Fry • And More and chocolate what he does for mac & cheese, I’m sticking around.” My instincts were right. I sampled (OK, ate nearly the entire serving) of Breakfast both the strawberry shortcake—a summer clas- Lunch an overdone staple that makes an appearance on sic made unique with rhubarb compote—and Dinner Al Dente most menus, is a cut above the rest. It’s made the honey peanut tart. The latter begins with a with colorful heirloom tomatoes that tasted to crunchy graham crust topped with rich honey- Cocktails BY MEGHAN STREIT me like they could have been picked a few hours flavored mousse, which is glazed with chocolate Wi-Fi before I ate them. and finished with a dollop of light-as-air pea- One of the things I love most about a big city Perez moved to Chicago from Mexico City in nut-butter cream. 127 S. State Street like Chicago is that you don’t have to be on one 1990, and began his restaurant career as a dish- I, for one, am glad Perez struck out on his In the Theater District of the main strips or in the see-and-be-seen washer. He went on to work in the kitchens of own. He brings some fresh ideas to Chicago’s (312) 372-3451 • beefbrandy.net neighborhoods to get a truly great meal. Far notable restaurants like Spiaggia, Cibo Mato at crowded dining scene, and I look forward to see- from it—in fact, I’d venture to say some of the the Wit and MK Restaurant. Now he’s running ing (and tasting) more of what he has to offer. If best food in Chicago can be found off of the the show with his own restaurant, and it is ap- you’re looking for a meal that doesn’t taste like beaten path. parent—from the little pot of coarse Mediter- every other one you’ve ever eaten, head on over That is certainly the case with Al Dente, a new ranean sea salt on the table to the fact that to Avondale and grab a table at Al Dente. spot in Irving Park/Avondale that is cranking out truly delightful cuisine that blends flavors from Italy, France and Mexico. A lesser chef’s attempt to merge three distinct cuisines could fail miserably (and several have in now-closed restaurants), but Chef Javier Perez nails it. The result is inspired offerings like gnocci made from white corn tortillas (who knew?), guajillo-marinated calamari steak and pasta with chorizo and orange saffron sauce. Al Dente is in a non-descript storefront on Ir- ving Park Road, and the interior is clean, but not 5721 N. Clark St. exactly exciting. So, if you’re looking for ambi- Call for ance, I recommend you bring it yourself in the Reservations form of a few lively dinner companions and a 773-506-7014 couple of bottles of good wine. Al Dente is BYOB at the moment, so now is your chance to get an exquisite meal on the cheap. We feature the freshest seafood Speaking of exquisite, be sure to start with Left: Summer salad. Right: Honey peanut tart. in Andersonville/Edgewater. the mac & cheese. In a world where some Come in for lunch sort of fancy mac & cheese is as likely to be or dinner and drinks on a menu as a hamburger or French fries, Al each dish is served at exactly the right tempera- Al Dente is located at 3939 W. Irving Park Rd.; (YES! - our bar is now open). Dente’s version really separates itself from the ture—that Perez pays extraordinary attention to call 773-942-7771 or visit http://www.aldente- Tue-Thu 11:30am - 10pm pack. It’s made with Wisconsin white cheddar detail. That, in my opinion, is what takes a meal chicago.com/index.html. Fri-Sat 11:30am - 11pm Sun 10am - 9pm and topped with garlic crumbs (like every fancy from forgettable to fabulous. Do you need some more Sugar & Spice in Plated Sunday Brunch 10am - 2:30 pm mac & cheese these days), but unlike its many I honestly don’t think you could go wrong your life? Follow me on Twitter: @SugarAnd- www.kingfisheronclark.com competitors, this mac is made with oriechette ordering anything on this small but thought- SpiceMS—for inside scoop and commentary pasta and truffle butter. Even the tomato salad, ful menu, but I highly recommend the escolar. on Chicago’s dining scene. theDISH DINING LISTINGS American Hamburger Mary’s Fondue Mediterranean Middle Eastern Beef ‘n Brandy 5400 N. Clark St., Chicago Geja’s Cafe Socca Habibi Restaurant 127 S. State St., Chicago 773-784-6969 340 W. Armitage Ave., Chicago 3301 N. Clark St., Chicago 1227 W. Devon Ave., Chicago 312-372-3451 hamburgermarys.com/chicago 773-281-9101 773-248-1155 773-465-9318 beefbrandy.net Burgers, salads and sass served up gejascafe.com soccachicago.com habibirestaurantandhookah.com A Chicago tradition since 1967. in a kitschy atmosphere with an Romantic fondue dining. Live Featured on Food Network. Ital- Authentic Middle Eastern dishes. Serving pizza, burgers, meat loaf, on-site brew pub. classical and flamenco guitar. ian/French cuisine. Dinner daily Lunch and dinner until 4 a.m. homemade Foccacia bread and Extensive, moderately priced wine and weekend brunch. Outdoor Hookah bar. Delivery and catering more. Bakery list. patio. available. Roscoe’s Sidewalk Cafe Swedish Bakery 3356 N. Halsted St., Chicago 5348 N. Clark St., Chicago ITALIAN Mexican SEAFOOD 773-281-3355 773-561-8919 Taverna 750 Mundial Cocina Mestiza Kingfisher roscoes.com swedishbakery.com 750 W. Cornelia Ave., Chicago 1640 W. 18th St., Chicago 5721 N. Clark St., Chicago Visit our popular outdoor cafe. European-style cookies, pastries, 773-348-5172 312-491-9908 773-506-7014 Salads, burgers, wraps, sand- breads, and tortes. We’ll create a Bright and fresh Italian small mundialcocinamestiza.com www.kingfisheronclark.com wiches, drink specials, and Sunday cake for any celebration. plates with an exciting cocktail Creative Mexican cuisine in the Fresh seafood in the heart of Brunch. menu. Surprisingly affordable. Pilsen neighborhood. Handshaken Andersonville. Award-winning margaritas and affordable wines. Chef Peter McCarthy. Reservations recommended.

To get your business listed in The Dish, contact [email protected] WINDY CITY TIMES Aug. 24, 2011 35 between I would either watch my dad play ball or play some myself. Couples compete “I have been all over the country because of this softball league and I got to do it with my family. So while most people would just remember going to the San Diego Zoo, I know I was in the Series there because that’s where the closing ceremonies were, for instance, the year my dad’s team took second-place in the World Series.” By Ross Forman to take the extra base on me, I can throw them out.” When Paul Kenost searched an online dating ser- Kenost and Gipson each throw and bat left- Mother and son Juana Judson is a retired softball pitcher, vice last summer, he marked “softball” among handed, and they agreed that the best part of but she certainly hasn’t lost her passion for the his interests—and so did Tatiana Gipson. being teammates is the quality time they now sport. The 51-year-old divorced mother of one is Fittingly, their first date—on June 27, 2010— spend together on Sundays, including post-game now the Team Mom for the Spin Cougars in the was to a local batting cage, followed by a stop trips to local gay bars with their teammates, and B-Division—which stars her son, Chris. at Buffalo Wild Wings. the team’s out-of-town tournaments that they Both are straight. A year later, the straight, interracial couple have played in. Kenost bats in the top six in the “If I played in the league, [anyone’s sexual is happily dating—and both are excited for the batting order, while Gipson is last, often as a orientation] wouldn’t matter one way or the 35th annual Gay Softball World Series, which surprise factor for the team’s foes. other. We’re all the same on the field,” said Jud- starts Monday, Aug. 29, with the opening cer- “I was immediately accepted and made a part son, who lives in Old Irving Park and works as a emony at Navy Pier. Games begin Tuesday, Aug. of the team,” Gipson said, “and this easily is technical consultant. “I’ve been affiliated with 30, at multi-field complexes in suburban Scha- one of the best teams I have ever played on. We Paul Kenost and Tatiana Gipson. Photo by CMSA for the last seven- or eight-years, [includ- umburg, St. Charles and Elmhurst. have so much fun.” Ross Forman ing] softball, bowling and volleyball. I’ve always Kenost and Gipson will be patrolling the out- On and off the field. Such as the time this believed in supporting your kids no matter how field for the Green Team Properties/Gotcha Cov- season when, after a game, many of the G-Force old they get. I know a great many of the players ered Blinds G-Force in the C-Division. They are players ran into an opposing team at a local bar. Runions plays for the Spin Wildcats in the C- and have been the team mom to many of them. I among several very unique combos within the The conversation shifted to Gipson and they Division in the World Series. really enjoy watching Christopher play; he’s very predominantly male Open Division of the Chi- wanted to know if she was gay or straight. “They “I enjoy playing 12-inch softball,” Runions talented and, as an added bonus, I get to see all cago Metropolitan Sports Association’s softball thought I had to be a lesbian because I was way said. “When I started playing in the 1980s, there my other boys play as well. What more could a league, which is the largest gay league in the too good to be straight,” Gipson said, laughing. was very little 12-inch softball being played in mom ask for.” nation. Then there was the talk after an out-of-state Chicago; most were 16-inch leagues. Judson, a native Chicagoan, grew up playing There’s a father-daughter combo. Her husband tournament about Gipson’s orientation, again. “Jenn has been coming to the games since 16-inch softball without a mitt. also plays in the league, and the father has been The opposing team thought, and asked, if she I started playing, so by becoming friends with “As someone who’s played softball for over 25 pitching in CMSA since the 1980s. was a pre-op transsexual. Gipson, Kenost and many of the players, it just seemed a natural years and pitched for most of them, I’ve always There’s a mother-son duo in B-Division, the rest of G-Force laughed at the question. progression for her to play [in the league, too], tried to help the new players, especially new though she is just the team manager—but al- “Softball is a great way to measure equality,” since she enjoyed playing softball like me. We pitchers,” she said. “I appreciate the fact that ways wearing a team uniform. Kenost said. “Good softball players know no ori- have never been teammates, though.” the players realize I do know the game and lis- There’s a gay, married 35-year-old male and entation. Just being able to hit the ball with Runions also has been a CMSA umpire. ten when I have suggestions. I’m the voice they his straight brother. They are D-Division team- power and, at times, in the proper spot, and also “I was happy to hear that Chicago [was host- expect to hear on Sundays, rain or shine.” mates. the ability to catch the ball and run the bases is ing] the World Series since we haven’t hosted Chris Judson, 27, is a dual-rate supervisor in “I’ve really enjoyed playing in the CMSA how you define a quality softball player. since 1983,” he said. “I do wish there were bet- league. It’s a fun league and I’ve met a lot of “Personally, I don’t see any difference in the ter fields closer to the city, so players didn’t good guys—on my team and on other teams,” level of play—in CMSA or the straight league have to travel so far. I am looking forward to Kenost said. “The level of competition [in CMSA] that I [also] play in. You’re either good or you’re my 16th World Series. I’ve been to 24 World is much better than I anticipated. The baseball not; [a player’s] sexual orientation] doesn’t mat- Series, including being a member of the cham- IQ [of many players] is high; they have a good ter on the field.” pionship Sidetrack team in 1983, but I wasn’t knowledge of the fundamentals. It definitely is able to play [in ‘83] because straight [players] a misconception that gay players don’t know Father-daughter weren’t allowed in the World Series until 1994 in sports as well, or as much as, straight players.” Phil Runions started playing in the local gay Nashville, where my team took 4th-place.” Take, for instance, last year’s Gay Softball softball league when he was 21 and admits, “I Jennifer Hawrysko, the former Jennifer Run- World Series—when Kenost watched numerous didn’t really know much about being gay [since] ions, is a teacher with the Chicago Public top-tiered A-Division games. “The level of play I had never met a gay person. When it was ex- Schools system. She pitched this summer for was exactly what I’d expect for A-Division play, plained to me [that it was a mostly gay league], the Jackhammer Pamas team in the C2-Division, [from] gay or straight players,” he said. I didn’t really care, I just wanted to play ball.” marking her ninth season in CMSA. Gipson, 30, lives in Lakeview and works as a This is something he certainly has done—for “My dad has played in the league since I was resident services director for a nursing facility about 30 years, with and against hundreds or 3, so I have acquired many friendships over the for people with disabilities. Originally from Los maybe thousands of gay men and women. time and enjoy playing softball with them,” said Angeles, Gipson has lived in Chicago for almost Runions, now 51, is married (wife Kathy) with Hawrysko, 33, a Chicago resident. “It also is seven years. She was a two-time All-American one daughter, Jennifer—and she too plays in great that there are so many divisions, which fast-pitch softball player at the College of Du- the CMSA open division. He lives on the north- allows me to play in the same league as my dad. Page (COD), and this is her rookie season in west side and mostly pitches; he previously has “Most times, I don’t really think about [play- CMSA and her first Series. played multiple infield positions. ing in a predominantly gay league.] A few years Kenost, 32, lives in the South Loop and works back, when there was a limit [on] the number as an insurance adjuster. He graduated from of straight people that could be on a team, my Fremd High School in 1997, then attended North team was told they had the maximum and it Central College, where he participated on the took my team captain and I a moment to realize school’s cross country and track & field teams. that I was on that list. I think I stand out more He earned All-American honors in track at the because I am a female in a predominantly male Juana Judson and her son, Chris. Photo by NCAA Division III level. This is Kenost’s third league. That just makes it easy for people to Ross Forman season in CMSA and this will be the second con- remember my name. secutive year he has played in the Series. “I love that [my dad and I] get to play in the the gaming industry who plays outfield and has Kenost came to CMSA through his cousin, Bri- same league. My dad and I are very close, so the been a part of CMSA for five years. an Kettner, a G-Force teammate who is gay and league gives us more to talk about and another “I started playing baseball when I was 7. partnered (to fellow G-Force player Joe Green). time to see one another … though my mom gets Ever since I have known how to throw a ball Kenost told Kettner and others on the team last tired of all the softball conversations.” and swing a bat, I’ve loved the game,” he said. season to watch Gipson throw before a game be- Hawrysko has played in the World Series two “Once I got to college, I went from baseball to cause she certainly was talented enough to join times, but will not participate this time. Her D- softball and have been playing ever since. I will the team—and have an impact. Division team took first-place in 2006 in Fort play softball until my body tells me I can’t any- “I’m a girl in this league and that has not Lauderdale. more.” been an issue at all,” Gipson said. “In fact, the “There are so many [softball] stories, from Chris Judson, when asked about being straight guys on [my] team were really open to the idea when I was little and couldn’t care less about in a predominantly gay league, said, “It is what of me joining this season.” [the sport] and asked my dad to bring my bike to it is. It’s a very competitive league. Sure, I got Despite the black COD softball shorts that Gip- the games … to when I was in my teens and I al- looks and people talked about me when I first son wears during games, many opponents just ways felt part of his teams because I would keep started in the league because I’m straight. How- viewed her as a girl in the mostly male league— score for them,” Hawrysko said. “Another reason ever, the teams I have played on have gotten to at least at the start of the season, until they I have many stories is because each World Series know me, as well as others in the league. Those watched her in action. that we went to, and the countless other tour- who actually know me know the kind of person “[Other teams] always are going to under- Phil Runions and daughter Jennifer Hawrysko. naments, they were usually family vacations. We Turn to page 37 estimate me and that’s fine; we try to take ad- Photo by Ross Forman would head out [before the tournament started] vantage of that,” Gipson said. “When they try or stay late, and do all the sight-seeing, and in 36 Aug. 24, 2011 WINDY CITY TIMES

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DUNDEE Rd. people are often not One block west of out in sports, as finding Rte. 53 on Dundee Rd. sponsorship was proving impossible.”We have a long way to go before 888-844-1089 we can call ourselves equal,” he said. “I have lost almost everything www.ArlingtonKia.com Evan Darling. Photo courtesy of Darling WINDY CITY TIMES Aug. 24, 2011 37 COUPLES from page 35 Humberto, 21, and Rodrigo Carrillo, 35, are teammates, both playing in the outfield for Mi Tierra Crush in the D-Division. Rodrigo is mar- I am—and your sexual orientation is your busi- ried (to Michael McBride); Beto, as he is now, is ness. Everyone is the same to me on the dia- single—he is one of two straight players on the mond. We are there to play softball, and play it Crush. Rodrigo lives in Lakeview; Beto lives in as competitively as possible while still having suburban Hillside. Brand n ew 2011 Lexus fun and making friends.” “[Playing in the CMSA] is actually a lot of COME VISIT US! Chris said having his mom as the team’s top fun,” Beto said. “I love playing sports; my ul- cheerleader is, well, just another day at the of- timate sport is soccer. My brother asked me if fice. ES 350 I would play softball with him and I thought it “She has a natural love for softball from her was a great way to play the sport and play with decades of playing, and she has kept it alive my big bro, which made it better. I love that even after she retired from playing,” he said. I get to play sports with him and we’re both He has also played flag football in CMSA and pretty good.” basketball in the winter through the Windy City However, Rodrigo admits he was apprehensive Athletic Association. at first about having his younger brother in the “When I moved back [to Chicago from colleague. “I wondered if he was going to be un- lege], my mom asked me to bowl with her in a comfortable and if it was going to be weird for Hugh Stinnette league on Friday nights. That league was CMSA him to hear my interaction with the team,” Ro- Sales Associate Friday Night League at Waveland Bowl,” he said. drigo said. “But he fit right in and the guys have “I just wanted to play sports because I like to just been excellent with him. They treat him like stay active, so I joined the league. Everything their little brother.” just snowballed from there. The first year I was Rodrigo is a housing counselor at Spanish Co- MSRP: in the league, I was approached about WCAA alition for Housing. Beto works in the bilingual winter basketball, then later [about] playing landlord association at Spanish Coalition for $38,995 DRIVE FOR ONLY: CMSA softball on Sunday afternoons and Thurs- Housing. Rodrigo has played CMSA softball for day nights.” six years; this was Beto’s second season. Last year in Columbus, Ohio, was his first Se- “I play for the enjoyment of being with my ries “and I had a blast,” Chris said. “I’m very friends,” Rodrigo said. “It also gives me satisfac- $ much looking forward to the atmosphere of [the tion that, as a kid, I was not into sports because 2011 World Series], as well as the fact that it is I never thought I was good enough to play. So 349/Mo. [being] hosted here in Chicago.” this is kind of like an internal revenge. “[Being teammates with Beto] is great be- The brothers cause sometimes it’s hard to find something in * Humberto Carrillo still remembers the first common with your straight, younger brother, for 36 months game he ever played in the predominantly gay but we have found an interest that we share and open division of CMSA. He was joining his gay we have grown closer because of it, despite our older brother’s team and Humberto was confi- 15-year age difference.” dent he’d shine. Rodrigo has played in four past World Series $ “I thought [the] team was going to be and said he is, “so excited” to, potentially, win You maY be eligible for 1,000 EASY!!!!” he said, now laughing. “I thought, ‘I a championship at home. ** got this!’ “I wish there was a way that our team could leXuS oWNer loYalTY CaSH “Then reality bit me and [I] saw that, damn, win an award for great sportsmanship,” Rodrigo these guys are good. I actually learned a lot said. “I can’t say enough about this team. This from all of them and they’re a blast,” to play % group of guys and a gal are just such inspiring for s with. people with lots of laughs.” 2.9 APR 60 mO . on all Certified Pre-Owned SPORTS “I would say grow up and catch up with † the times,” Hardaway told the Times. “It’s all Lexus vehicles Tim Hardaway around the world.” The Times reported that Hardaway said that CErTIfIEd PrE-OwnEd CErTIfIEd PrE-OwnEd CErTIfIEd PrE-OwnEd changes what made his 2007 anti-gay statements es- LExuS IS LExuS Rx LExuS ES pecially shameful is that, as a Black man, he anti-gay stripes should understand discrimination. By Ross Forman UTEP also was, years ago, the focus of a

Black-white issue. Tim Hardaway has, it appears, gone full-circle In 1966, at the height of the civil-rights 6 18 11 from Public Enemy No. 1 of the gay community In STOCK! In STOCK! movement, Hardaway’s former college coach, In STOCK! to a staunch gay-rights supporter. Don Haskins, led a team with five Black start- 2008 to 2010 2007 to 2010 2007 to 2010 When former professional basketball player ers against an all-white University of Kentucky $ $ $ $ $ $ John Amaechi came out in 2007, Hardaway, 26,995 to 42,995 27,995 to 42,995 24,995 to 33,995 team to win a national championship. also a former National Basketball Association Tom Brown leads El Pasoans for Traditional (NBA) superstar, told a Miami sports radio CErTIfIEd PrE-OwnEd CErTIfIEd PrE-OwnEd CErTIfIEd PrE-OwnEd Family Values, which has until Sept. 16 to show, “Well, you know I hate gay people, so gather 6,100 signatures to hold an election to let it be known. I don’t like gay people and I LExuS Gx LExuS LS LExuS Lx oust Cook, and about 650 each to recall Byrd don’t like to be around gay people.” and Ortega, according to the Times. In 2010, on a Sirius Radio interview, Hard- Laura McGinnis, spokesperson of The Trevor away spoke about his work with The Trevor Project, confirmed that Hardaway in 2009 Project and The YES Institute, done to educate hosted a fundraiser in Miami to benefit the 10 himself on LGBT issues. In STOCK! Trevor Project. She said that Hardaway also The latest support for LGBT life from Hard- 2008 to 2011 2007 to 2008 2007 made an additional donation to The Trevor away came last week in El Paso. Hardaway, $ $ $ $ $ Project in 2009 through his charity founda- 39,995 to 58,995 39,995 to 46,995 44,995 who attended Chicago’s Carver High School tion. in School, and then played at the University “Sometimes perception changes; it’s all Please add tax, title, license and doc. fee to all prices and payments. All offers with approved credit. *Payments based on 36-month balloon loan with 15% of MSRP as down of Texas-El Paso (UTEP) before an NBA career about growing, and we welcome the opportu- payment. After 35th payment, consumer can walk away or make final 36th payment (final payment equals: $22,618 ES) **You must qualify for Owner Loyalty Bonus Cash. Restrictions from 1989-2003 which included five All-Star nity for people to change their first percep- apply. Contact us for details. †2.9% APR for 60 months on all certified pre-owned Lexus vehicles with approved credit and $0 down payment required. Dealership not responsible for Game appearances and more than 15,000 tions of what an LGBT person might be,” Mc- typographical errors. Some images for illustrative purposes only. points scored. Ginnis said. “[Hardaway] got a wake-up [after Hardaway attended a press conference in El his 2007 comments], and that he answered Paso, urging citizens to oppose recall efforts ARLINGTON LEXUS that wake-up call is important. against Mayor John Cook and city Reps. Susie “It’s important for Tim Hardaway and oth- IN PALATINE Byrd and Steve Ortega, reported the El Paso ers in sports, active and retired [athletes], to Times. The three are being recalled by a group come out in support of LGBT people. For young 1285 E. 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PRESENTED BY

Buckingham Fountain Friday, September 9th ~ 4-10pm Saturday, September 10th ~ 3-9pm TICKETS: $27 in advance, $35 at the gate, $10 Designated Driver Alcohol sampling & sales end 30 minutes prior to close. For general information, call 847-382-1480 Purchase online or by phone: 877-772-5425 (additional fee applies for phone orders) www.windycitywinefestival.com

Partial proceeds benefit the Grant Park Conservancy

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. 40 Aug. 24, 2011 WINDY CITY TIMES

farms, vineyards and sprawling estates, this event has traveled across the coun- tryside of Northern Indiana and South- western Michigan celebrating the idyllic serenity of the area and raising much needed funds for Lambda Legal’s civil rights work; info, sponsorships: Jeff Sou- Brought to you by the combined efforts of va at [email protected]; 1:45 p.m., 312-663-4413, The Home of Jim McDaniel WINDY CITY & Kevin Hochberg Lakeside, MI, http:// ON A BUDGET on.fb.me/intothewoods2011 TIMES Transcinema Screening of a Trans related Mon. and Wed., film, followed by a discussion of the film. Aug. 29, 31 Members of the broad Trans community Wed., Aug. 24 are encouraged to invite signicant others, Mayor Rahm Emanuel will family members, friends and allies. Hosted Town Hall Meeting Senate President John discuss the 2012 city GOING ‘FISH’-ING by Karen McReady Meeting details. Fourth Cullerton, State Rep. Ann Williams give Saturday of each month. 6:30 p.m.-8 budget at Kennedy-King updates on legislation and the FY12 bud- Wed., Aug. 24 p.m., Center on Halsted, 3656 N Halsted, College and Malcolm X get and ask for input. 6 p.m.-8 p.m., Bell Ky Dickens’ acclaimed http://www.centeronhalsted.org School, 3730 N. Oakley Ave. College. documentary Fish Out of Water Chicago’s Largeest All Female DJ House Orient Express AIDS Legal Council of Chica- Party Featuring Chicago’s hottest female go brings its annual travel-themed event will be shown at the Center on DJ’s, Czboogie, Mz Nicky, Brown Sugar, on an epic train trip from a grand Pari- Halsted, 3656 N. Halsted. DeeJay Alicia, Celeste Alexander, Lori sian boulevard all the way to the bustling Branch; kitchen open late!; pre-sale tick- and founder/chairman of the Ben Cohen bazaar of Istanbul. Exciting raffles. Event ets $6.50. 7 p.m., Jaks Tap Bar & Grill, “Stand Up” foundation; Pandora Boxx, tickets start at $50. Order yours at http:// Still from Ky Dickens Jaks Tap Bar & Grill 901 W. Jackson, Drag Superstar; and hometown favorites http://alccorient.eventbrite.com; 6 p.m.- http://chicagoslargestallf?emaledjhousep Amy Armstrong, singer and entertainer; 9 p.m., Sidetrack, 3349 N Halsted St. arty-efbevent?.eventbrite.com/ and Matthew Harvat, DJ and event pro- SceneOut: Fish Out of Water Genre-bending Mr. Club Krave competition For the best ducer. 5 p.m.-8 p.m., Navy Pier, 600 E feature documentary that uses animation Grand, http://www.chicagoseries2011. One Cause.” 5 p.m., 773-359-0122, Sofo, Rainbow Social Chicago’s Gender & Sexu- in male impersonation. $12 oversized and academic interviews to dissect the com/2011/ 4923 N. Clark, http://www.baraids.org ality Center welcomes new and returning mixed drink pitchers, $4 Long Island (and seven Bible verses used to condemn ho- Mayor Emanuel leads public town hall Adult Expungement and Records Sealing UIC students, faculty, staff, alumni, and Blue Island) iced teas. 8 p.m., Club Krave, mosexuality and justify marriage discrimi- on 2012 city budget Emanuel will take Seminar Dorothy Brown, clerk of the Cir- community members to the GSC. Free piz- 13126 S Western Ave, http://www.club- nation. Director Ky Dickens shows through questions about the budget from the as- cuit Court of Cook County, and the Center za and beverages provided. 11am-1 p.m., krave.com animated illustrations of the oft-quoted sembled audience and address some ideas on Halsted will host; attorneys will be on Rms 181 and 183, Behavioral Sciences Dance ‘til the World Ends Cabaret dance Bible passages and revelatory commen- proposed by Chicagoans. 6 p.m.-8 p.m., site to assist those eligible for expunge- Building, 1007 W. Harrison St., http:// show and benefit to raise money for Ar- tary on them by celebrated scholars that 312-744-6670, Kennedy-King College, ment or sealing of criminal records in Cook www.gsc.uic.edu tReach Educational Theater. Raffles, shots the Bible is misinterpreted and misquoted 6301 S. Halsted St., http://www.chicago- County. Participants should bring criminal Women’s Equality Day City of Chicago Ad- and fun prizes. Party starts at 9 p.m.; regarding same-sex relationships. 6:30 budget.org records. 5 p.m., 773-472-6469, Center on visory Council on Women and 14 munici- show begins at 10. $10 suggested dona- p.m., Center on Halsted, 3656 N Halsted A-List Viewing Party and Karaoke Mon- Halsted, 3656 N. Halsted, http://www. pal, business, trades and civic organizations includes two drink tickets. 9 p.m., St., http://www.centeronhalsted.org day’s Karaoke from 10 p.m.-2am with your centeronhalsted.org tions celebrate Women’s Equality Day and Hydrate, 3458 N. Halsted, http://www. Adam Tyler LIVE! Live performance by host, John Florida. Enjoy $4.50 Absolut LoveFest Kick-Off Reception The Chicago the 91st anniversary of women winning hydratechicago.com Adam Tyler during Spin’s popular $1 drink Cocktails and $4 Miller Lite & Coors Light Black Gay Men’s Caucus invites you to the the right to vote. Chicago Human Rela- night. $5 cover before 11 p.m.; $7 after. Drafts; 9 p.m., Spin Nightclub, 800 W. LoveFest Kick-Off Reception. 21+, valid tions Commissioner Mona Noriega, Cook Sunday, Aug. 28 10 p.m., Spin Nightclub, 800 W. Belmont Belmont Ave, http://www.spin-nightclub. ID. Free. Light refreshments provided. 6 County Board President Toni Preckwinkle, Urban Village Church LGBT welcoming wor- Ave, http://www.spin-nightclub.com com/ p.m.-9 p.m., Club Escape, 1530 E 75th St., and Appellate Judge Joy V. Cunningham ship services at Urban Village Church are Thursday, Aug. 25 http://chiblackgaycaucus.org/2011/08/ will be among those recognizing the sig- eclectic and experiential, practical and lovefest2011/ nificance of the 19th Amendment which intelligent, relevant and, hopefully, in- Tuesday, Aug. 30 Bar AIDS! EdgeAlliance presents 8th an- 35th annual Gay Softball World Series CULT w/ Elite Gymnastics Chicago debut granted voting rights to women. Local spiring. 10:15am-11:30am, Urban Village nual Bar AIDS! Chicago’s hottest bars & Tournament Expected to draw 175 teams of Elite Gymnastics, with DJ Tra La La musical artists will entertain and the Chi- Church, Spertus Institute, 610 S. Michi- nightclubs will donate a portion of their from 43 cities in North America in five di- (Rapidshare) and others. 10 p.m., Berlin cago Board of Election Commissioners will gan, http://www.newchicagochurch.com proceeds directly to EdgeAlliance, who visions: A, B, C, D and Master’s; champion- Nightclub, 954 W Belmont Ave, http:// provide voter’s registration services. Free All Groups Gay Picnic Sponsored by West provides housing and support services for ships played in the Schaumburg Complex www.berlinchicago.com and open to the public. 12 p.m.-1 p.m., Suburban Gay Association; 12 p.m.-9 those living with HIV/AIDS. “One Night. Sept. 3. 12 p.m., Complexes in Schaum- Friday, Aug. 26 Richard J. Daley Plaza, Dearborn & Wash- p.m., Busse Woods Forest Preserve Grove burg, Elmhurst and St. Charles, Ill. ington, Chicago 31, Schaumburg; http://www.wsga.com Proud To Stand Up with Ben Cohen Meet Some Enchanted Evening Broadway Favor- Urban Village Church Wicker Park Worship Ben as he auctions great items to ben- ites Some Enchanted Evening with Opera Services LGBT welcoming worship services efit the Ben Cohen StandUp Foundation, Soloists Angela Mannino and Paul Corona at Urban Village Church are eclectic and which is the world’s first foundation dedi- Singing Broadway and Operatic Favorites, experiential, practical and intelligent, cated to raising awareness of the long- and featuring local area youth, Soprano relevant and, hopefully, inspiring. 5:30 term damaging effects of bullying and Jessie Ann Bolash as the opener for the p.m.-7 p.m., 1502 N. Hoyne (at LeMoyne), doing the work to stop it. 8 p.m.-11 p.m., ballroom concert. 6:30 p.m., 1-800-838- http://www.newchicagochurch.com Sidetrack, 3349 N. Halsted St, http:// 3006, On Stage at Metropolis Ballroom, Movies on the Patio Jack’s Bar & Grill, 2856 www.sidetrackchicago.com Arlington Heights, IL, http://www.brown- N. Southport Ave., presents Movies on the Patio, a summer series of popular movies papertickets.com/profile/51573 Wed., Aug. 31 Hot Jockstrap Contest Sofia Saffire hosts every Sunday evening; 6 p.m., 773-404- The Civil Rights Agenda: A “Civilized” the hottest contest in Uptown. First 8400, Jack’s Bar & Grill, 2856 N. South- Celebration The Civil Rights Agenda in- place $100! Show up by 11 to sign up. port Ave.,, http://www.jackschicago.com/ vites you to celebrate a year of making No jock strap? Crew’s got you covered. 9 Melissa Young LIVE Melissa Young makes history. Join TCRA for their first in a se- p.m., Crew Bar & Grill, 4804 N. Broadway, a Sunday home at 3160 performing the ries of “Civilized Celebrations” honoring http://www.worldsgreatestbar.com last Sunday of every month. 7:30 p.m.-11 friends who were joined in Civil Union on It’s Britney Bitch Last Friday of every p.m., 3160, 3160 N. Clark Street, http:// June 3, 2011 and celebrating the histori- month bring Britney to The Call. All Brit- www.chicago3160.com cal changes in acceptance and “getting ney all night with DJ Riley York. 9 p.m., civilized” in Illinois. 5:30 p.m.-9 p.m., The Call (Chicago), 1547 W Bryn Mawr, Monday, Aug. 29 The Joynt 650 N. Dearborn, Chicago, http://facebook.com/britneyspearschi- Stand Up to Bullying with Ben Cohen http://www.jointcra.com cago.com World Champion Rugby player Ben Cohen Mayor Emanuel leads public town hall Shower Contest Join Spin’s sexy GoGo Boys is coming to Chicago with his anti-bully- on 2012 city budget Emanuel will take each Friday for their Shower Party from. ing organization, StandUp! The StandUp questions about the budget from the as- Check out the new exciting shower, which Foundation invites you to stand up with sembled audience and address some ideas lowers from the ceiling. 10 p.m., Spin Ben to stop the bullying and make the proposed by Chicagoans. 6 p.m.-8 p.m., Nightclub, 800 W. Belmont Ave, http:// world a kinder place. Come meet the man, 312-744-6670, Malcolm X College, 1900 www.spin-nightclub.com hear his story and join the StandUp movement. 2 p.m.-3 p.m., Center on Halsted, W. Van Buren St., http://www.chicago- 3656 N Halsted, http://www.centeronhal- budget.org Saturday, Aug. 27 We Are Halsted A fabulous and affordable Out in Chicago tour Out in Chicago curator sted.org variety show with comedy, music, dance, Jill Austin leads a tour of historical sites, 35th Annual NAGAAA Gay Softball World prizes, inexpensive donated cocktails and including Hull-House, Henry Gerber’s resi- Series Opening Ceremonies Opening beers, benefiting youth homeless shelters dence, and the Belmont Rocks; $45, $40 Ceremonies for the 35th Annual NAGAAA SLIDE ON including The Crib, $5 tickets; 7 p.m., Cen- members; 1 p.m.-5 p.m., Various loca- Gay Softball World Series will feature a ter on Halsted, 3656 N Halsted, http:// tions, http://www.chicagohistory.org top-notch talent lineup, including Les- Aug. 29-Sept. 3 www.centeronhalsted.org Into the Woods From secluded private lie Jordan, star of the stage and screen; Ben Cohen, Rugby World Cup Champion The 35th Annual NAGAAA Gay Softball World Series gardens, to beachside bon fires, country will take place in Schamburg, Elmhurst and St. Charles, with related events in Chicago. Get : WindyCityMediaGroup.com Photo from last year’s event from Cameron Turner online ChicagoPride.com WINDY CITY TIMES Aug. 24, 2011 41 film festival showed The Seminarian with a re- If you’ve got a question about one of my sexy ally hot actor, Mark Cirillo. I was trying to find and talented friends, drop a note to Billy@Bil- out some information about him or the movie lyMasters.com and I promise to get back to you BILLY MASTERS and I came across some photos of him ... with before Belinda records the love theme to Captain YOU! What can you tell me about him? And is the America Part 2. So, until next time, remember, movie ever coming out? You must have some hot one man’s filth is another man’s bible. “He plays a kid who refuses to go down.”—Al- for Hudson Jeans featuring a shirtless, reclin- pics to tide me over.” lison Janney describes the role played by Chris ing Patrick. The brand appears to like using the I thought all photos of Mark and I were re- Colfer in the just-wrapped flick Struck by Light- spawn of celebs—Mick Jagger and Jerry Hall’s moved from the web for ... well, for obvious rea- ning. He won’t go down? I think I dated him! daughter, Georgia May, is also a model. But I sons! Mark is a sweet guy and a talented actor Life is full of hard decisions. After all my trav- certainly won’t be running any photos of her! and, yes, he’s awfully handsome. I have not seen els, I wanted nothing more than to just relax in Another sexy son of a celeb (try saying that The Seminarian, but I have no doubt he’s good Boston. On the other hand, I really wanted to three times fast) is making a splash. Ricky Sch- in it because he’s good in everything. Your ques- zip back to my Beverly Hills abode. Why? Be- roder’s son Luke just finished filming A Mile in tion gave me the perfect excuse to reconnect cause my girls, The Go-Go’s, were FINALLY be- His Shoes. The movie is about an autistic coun- with him, and he says that DVD pre-sales will ing honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk try boy who is an amazing pitcher. He joins a begin before the end of the year. You can get of Fame. This event was happening just days minor league baseball team managed by Dean more information over at Facebook.com/The- before their return to the Greek Theatre for a Cain. This film is headed for the Gospel Music Seminarian. You can also check out Facebook. concert—which was taking place on the birth- Channel, so maybe there’ll be some dancing and com/MarkCirilloActor. To tide you over, I found day of my bon ami, Belinda Carlisle. No-brainer, singing and some tambourine playing. No mat- some stills from the flick—including Mark’s nude right? Problem is, Belinda shares that birthday ter—Luke is mighty handsome, as you’ll see on scene—which I’ll happily post on BillyMasters. with Big Mama Masters—and this is her 70th our website. com. birthday (Mama, not Belinda). Obviously blood BTW, we hear that Burt Reynolds is in dan- When I’m running photos of a nude seminar- is thicker than water (plus there’s an inheritance ger of losing his Florida estate. The mansion, ian, it’s definitely time to end yet another col- to consider). I had to make due with sending located in Hobe Sound, is a sprawling property umn. With Big Mama’s birthday over, I’m leaving congrats to Babe and all the Go-Go’s for this that even includes a hair salon. Someone should Boston and heading down to the beach house long overdue landmark. have known that was a losing venture! in Fort Lauderdale to enjoy some sun and surf. Adam Levine loves the attention from the I’m not alone in my adoration of the lovely This week’s “Ask Billy” question hits a little While you’re surfing the web, check out www. men. Miss Carlisle. Sexy Dominic Cooper (who appears close to home. Joshua in Seattle writes: “Our BillyMasters.com—the site that always sizzles. in Captain America) has confessed that he, too, is a fan: “She was one of those childhood obsessions. It wasn’t anything to do with the music, though—I certainly wasn’t entranced by ‘Circle in the Sand’.” Now, was that really neces- Sidetrack is PROUD TO STAND UP with sary? I’ve recently come to realize how rarely brutal honesty is called for. Dominic continued, “I think that she was my first crush and I just had visions of owning a sports car, with Belinda BEN COHEN Carlisle draped across the bonnet.” If this ever does happen, I hope she’s singing “Circle in the Sand!” Adam Levine is enjoying quite a bit of attention given the success of The Voice. And with his Your home away penchant for posing sans clothing, it’s no sur- from Home Plate! Come meet Ben prise that much of that attention is coming from Tuesday, gay men—something he’s actually happy about, WELCOME SERIES as he recently told Out magazine: “There’s no August 30 way to hide my straightness, but if people didn’t PLAYERS, FANS think there was a small chance I was gay, then AND FRIENDS! 8-11pm I wouldn’t be doing my job very well. Look at as he auctions great the best ones, guys whose sexuality was always Sidetrack is a questioned. Bowie. Jagger. Freddie Mercury. I proud sponsor of: items to benefit the wouldn’t be the front man of a band if that ques- Ben Cohen StandUp tion hadn’t come up at some point.” Of course, all of these men did have relationships with Foundation. men. One of the best things to come out of The Voice was the exposure it gave my friend, the fabulous Frenchie Davis. I’m happy to say that she’ll be appearing at the upcoming Kingdom party at Gay Days Anaheim on Oct. 1. Go to http://www.GayDaysAnaheim.com for information and tickets. (Order early—they sold out last year.) Mike “The Situation” Sorrentino is in an envi- able position. On one hand, Abercrombie & Fitch has asked that he stop wearing their clothes on Jersey Shore—and the cast has even been offered “a substantial payment” to do so. The press release says, “We understand that the show is for entertainment purposes, but believe this association is contrary to the aspirational nature of our brand”—a brand which usually poses their models without even a stitch of clothing. So much for that “aspirational nature” (let’s not even mention their “GTL” and “Fitchuation” shirts). On the other hand, Larry Flynt over at Hustler issued his own press release offering to “pay Mr. Sorrentino to wear our clothing so that he can stay well dressed.” The only thing I find fascinating about this situation is that anyone is calling him Mr. Sorrentino! The Ben Cohen StandUp Foundation, Inc. Given all those shirtless pics I keep posting is the world’s first foundation dedicated to on BillyMasters.com, it’s no surprise that little raising awareness of the long-term, damaging Patrick Schwarzenegger has been asked to mod- effects of bullying, and funding those doing el for a clothing company. So if you’re in L.A., real-world work to stop it. The Video Bar you don’t have to look down at your computer 3349 N.. Halsted to see his taut torso. Just look high up above /SidetrackBar SidetrackChicago..com Sunset Boulevard and you’ll see a huge billboard First Mar- ket Days Classic a success

42 Aug. 24, 2011 WINDY CITY TIMES Chicago teams ready for Gay Softball World Series By Ross Forman egated to being a pinch-runner due to an injury —Series history: Febonio has played in it 17 One of the Chicago teams in the 35th annual Gay years. Softball World Series is Buck U’s, while another —Strength of team: “Versatility and confi- team features three former Buckeyes. dence. We have a bunch of players who can, and The C-Division will feature Buck U’s and the do, play multiple positions as needed. We have Green Team Properties/Gotcha Covered Blinds a balanced line up that gets contributions from G-Force, a 16-member team that, ironically, fea- everyone top to bottom.” tures three who went to Ohio State University— —About the 2011 Series: “[I am] thrilled ev- Rob Burton, Mike Reid and Rob Scaffidi—home ery year to participate. I’ve been very fortunate of the Buckeyes. to have played in the World Series every year Experience and tenacity are the strength of that I’ve played gay softball.” the G-Force, said team captain Danny Tag, 44, —Thoughts about playing in a Series in Chi- who plays shortstop and will be participating in cago: “Very excited. I know that all the people his 12th Series. visiting will have a blast while they are here and The Spin Wildcats in 2010. Photo by Ross Forman “I think Chicago teams will have a bit of a I know the Series organization is in very good disadvantage, since many of us will be doing hands, so I expect it to be one of the best.” —About Buck U’s: “Our success this season win its division if ...”we can play solid as a team double duty trying to make sure the tournament —(Complete this sentence:) My team will win is because we’re extremely supportive of each and we can tap into a ‘giving it our all’ attitude runs smoothly,” Tag said. its division if ... “we stay healthy, remember last other and don’t get down on each other. We’ve at every play, the same attitude that to this Scaffidi and teammate Joe Cappelletti are year and get a few lucky bounces. We will be become friends off the field, not just on,” Hen- point we still don’t know what we really mean members of the eight-person Series 2011 Board playing in our second Series as a team. We sur- dricks said. when we say ‘find the cheddar,’ and by support- of Directors. prised folks last year at the Series by finishing —Buck U’s players to watch: Tom Alcock, ing each other on and off the field. If we can “There’s a lot of luck and good timing involved in the top 10 in our division. We can improve on outfield; Jeff Book, third baseman; Chuck Brink- have fun, then we will win regardless. Finding in winning it all,” said Tag, who graduated from that if we play with the same level of intensity man, outfield; Bob Webb, infielder; Joe Della- the cheddar to me has been the process of what Glenbrook North High School in north suburban and if we remain focused throughout the week.” Monica, outfield got us there with the phrase, which was just Northbrook. —Little-known fact about the Cougars: “We having a good time and being silly as a group Players to watch on G-Force: love cooked bread!” Spin Wildcats (C-Division): and making a fun innocent joke that only we will Randy Detert, pitcher —Final thought: “Our team is comprised of —Captain: Robert Paradise know who that came to happen. Joe Green, catcher players who contribute in many different ways. —Age: 50 —Little-known fact about the Breeze: “We are Brian Kettner, second base We get strong pitching and timely hitting with —Position: First and third bases still wanting to find MORE cheddar.” Here’s a look at the other Chicago teams par- solid defense to boot. We don’t have any su- —Series history: Paradise has played in the —Final quote: “I truly believe that our team ticipating in the six-day series, which starts perstars or anyone who stands [out] head and Series three times. is as good as our lowest player; that is how I Aug. 29, and will be played at multifield com- shoulders above the rest of the team. We do —Strength of the Wildcats: “The mix of vet- manage my teams. My top three [players] mean plexes in Schaumburg, St. Charles and Elmhurst. have key players whom we count on to perform eran players with young talent.” nothing to me unless I can get my bottom three (Comments are from each team captain.) to their capabilities, but we play as a team, win —About the 2011 Series: “It is an honor to to at least want to try to be as good as my top as a team and lose as a team. We expect to do a represent our city in this World Series, especially player. This is a team sport and everyone has Spin Menace (A-Division): lot more winning than losing.” since it is here in Chicago, the greatest city in something to offer. ... This is just a game and, at —Captain: Cameron Turner —Cougars to watch: Todd Wickens, first base; the world. It will be great to play on some awe- the end, if you can’t walk way with some of the —Age: 38 Gil Minor, shortstop; Pete Kavanagh, catcher; some fields. best friendships, regardless of your skill, then —Position: Outfield and Olin Eargle, infield —Little-known fact about the Wildcats: Pitch- we are all doing this for the wrong reasons.” —Series history: Turner has played in the Se- er Phil Runion played in the 1983 Gay Softball —Breeze players to watch: Byron Geib; Yvette ries five times. Downtown Bar & Lounge (B-Division): World Series, the last time the event was held Holt; Danny Steffel; Jackie Schmit; and Jaime —About the Menace: This is the team’s second —Captain: Paul Milinsky in Chicago—and Runion is heterosexual. His Angeles season playing in the top-tiered A-Division. “We —Age: 33 daughter, Jen, also plays in the CMSA open divi- are largely the same team as last year. Many of Position: Left field sion—and she, too, is straight. Mi Tierra Crush (D-Division): us played together in the B-Division as the Spin —Series history: Milinsky has played in two —Wildcats to watch: Ryan Whitney, outfield; —Captain: C. Rodrigo Carrillo Cougars prior to moving up to the A-Division,” past Series. Patrick Keegan, outfield; Tim Worthington, out- —Age: 35 said Turner. —DTB strength: “Our ability to go out on the field; and Ernesto Mejil, shortstop —Position: Left field —Strength of the team: “Last year, our team field and just have fun.” —Series experience: Carrillo has played in the was built primarily on speed, youth and pitch- —About the 2011 Series: “It’s going to be the Chicago Breeze (D-Division): Series five times; the team has played in the ing. We were all or nothing as a hitting team best World Series yet. We are excited to show —Captain: Marcela Haber-Bishop Series three times. and were lacking a little bit in power in compar- other teams from across the country how great —Age: 35 —About the Crush: “We have played together ison to the other A-Division teams. This year, we of a city Chicago is.” —Position: Pitcher and catcher for over six years. We have taken pride in the have added some power and have six or seven —(Complete this sentence:) Your team will —Series history: This is her first Series ap- fact that we all have a great relationship, both guys in our lineup capable of hitting a home win its division if ... “we can bring our A-game pearance and, with the exception of one pick-up on and off the field. Just recently a few of our run over a 300-foot fence. I think our strength like we are capable of.” player, is the first Gay Softball World Series for core players decided to branch out and create this year is that we truly are a complete team, —Little-known fact about Downtown: “The all. their own team. It was a tough moment for our capable of playing just about any type of game.” biggest argument our team had all year was —Sponsor: Jackhammer team both losing our teammates and finding —About the 2011 Series: “Playing in the Se- what color our jerseys should be.” —Number of team players on the team: 13 new ones. We wished our friends well and we ries is always a lot of fun,” said Turner. “We have —DTB players to watch: Brian Addison, short- —About the Breeze: “When I heard about Chi- have found four [new] players, which has re-en- all made friends across the country through soft- stop; Larry Kuhn, second base and outfield; and cago being the host [for the Series], I was able ergized our team. We are currently in first-place ball, and any time we can all get together to Aaron Brost, pitcher to get a core of seven players. From the start [in the local league] and that is tribute to the play ball and socialize, it is a great time. To play [of the season,] the reason for me trying to cre- fact that our new players have brought great en- the Series in Chicago, where we will have a lot of Buck U’s (C-Division): ate this team was because we wanted to play in ergy and revitalized the team. We have not been fans and the luxury of sleeping in our own beds, —Captain: Mike Hendricks this year’s Series. This was a simple decision to in first place in years.” that is really exciting. I think it gives us an ad- —Age: 52 gather a few more to make our dream happen. It —It’s a fact: The Breeze finished in second vantage over teams traveling from other cities.” —Position: Infield just worked out with a few last minute add-ons place earlier this summer at a weekend tourna- —Little-known fact about the Menace: In —Strength of Buck U’s: It’s experience. The that I was able to get enough to confirm a team, ment in Minnesota. addition to CMSA league play on Sundays, the core of the team has played together for about and from there it was simple what I needed to —About the World Series: “I am looking for- team participates in a straight league in Elm- 10 seasons. complete this team with the pick-ups we are al- ward on our new team competing in the World hurst, and the Menace is currently in first-place —Now pitching: Jeff Xenakis works in the lowed to get.” Series as a chance to meet new people and the in that league. medical field when off the playing field. —Strength of team: “A great mix of men and potential of bringing home a trophy in our home —Menace players to watch: Matt Walus, out- —First baseman: Paul Morrissey was on the women, skills, experience, and talent.” town. Our team will win our division if we [play field; Kevin Ball, pitcher; and Joe Bland, catch- Spin Cougars when that team won the World Se- —Thoughts about participating in 2011 Se- as] a team. We come together in stressful situ- er/infield ries two years ago in Milwaukee. Morrissey also ries: “Excited and nervous” ations and we always manage to stay cool. As umpires in the CMSA league. Thoughts about playing in a Series in Chicago: long as we do it the Crush way, we can win.” Spin Cougars (B-Division): —Championship fame: Outfielder Mike Bruzz- “Excited enough to come back to play with the —Crush players to watch: Joe Wirtz; Lonny —Captain: Mark Febonio ini was a World Series winner in 2009, although men after two years of not playing in [the pre- Glover; and Yvette Vasquez —Age: 52 he played for a Fort Lauderdale, Fla.-based team dominantly male] Open Division on Sundays. —Position: Infield and pitcher, though rel- in the C-Division at the time. —(Complete this sentence:) Your team will WINDY CITY TIMES Aug. 24, 2011 43 CONNE IONS X MAKE IT YOUR BUSINESS Family Law Exceptional PARKVIEW PET SUPPLIES Donald B. Boyd, Jr. Celebrations EST. 1921 • Divorce/Wills/Trusts We are all one... • Real Estate Closings Civil Unions Jewish, Christian, • Civil Unions • LGBT Issues Weddings Wiccan, Secular Humanist, 5358 N. 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