VOL 35, NO. 07 DEC. 25, 2019 www.WindyCityMediaGroup.com L.A. CONFIDENTIAL Sami Grisafe thrives in L.A., but maintains Chicago ties. Photo courtesy of the Chicago Force

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AIDS GARDEN Unveils Haring sculpture. Photo by Owen Keehnen 2019

7 LOOKING BACK DANIEL KYRI at national, local Local queer actor on Chicago, coming out on TV. LGBTQ developments Photo courtesy of Kyri STARTING ON PAGE 4

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SAMMY LULU JACK & FRANK SPARKY & TOBIAS

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NEWS Top national LGBTQ headlines of 2019 4 66 OBIT: W. Geoffrey Pritzlaff 5 Local LGBTQs: A look back at this year 6 AIDS Garden statue officially unveiled 7 Affinity head leaving for NCLR 8 Viewpoints: Lynch; letter 10 When A Great Deal Matters, Shop Rob Paddor’s... ENTERTAINMENT/EVENTS Evanston Subaru in Skokie Theater reviews 12 Best/worst of theater 14 PROJECT Queer actor Daniel Kyri 15 2020 OUTBACK HERO INDEX Season's readings: Books to consider buying 16 CHICAGO FASHION: Local designer Cristy Pratt 17 C.A.R.E. Sami Grisafe: Former Chicagoan thrives in L.A. 18 NIGHTSPOTS 19 DOWNLOAD Classifieds 21 THIS ISSUE Calendar 22 YEPP hosts 'Rise Up' 22 Subaru of America will donate $250 to one AND BROWSE THE ARCHIVES AT of six charities with any new Subaru www.WindyCityTimes.com purchase now through January 2nd Main cover photo credits: New Chicago Ald. Maria Hadden. ALL-NEW DESIGN Photo by Ryan Edmund; Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot. Photo by Carrie Maxwell; Chicago House CEO Michael Herman. Photo from Chicago House; Pete and Chasten Buttigieg. Photo from Mike Kuby ALL WHEEL DRIVE ALL-NEW DESIGN VOL 35, NO. 07 DEC. 25, 2019 UPCOMING 2020 www.WindyCityMediaGroup.com L.A. CONFIDENTIAL Sami Grisafe thrives in L.A., but WINDY CITY TIMES PRINT DATES: maintains Chicago ties. Photo courtesy of the Chicago Force 18 Jan. 8, 2020 March 18, 2020 May 27, 2020 AIDS GARDEN Unveils Haring sculpture. Photo by Owen Keehnen 2019 Jan. 22, 2020 April 1, 2020 June 10, 2020 7 LOOKING BACK Feb. 5, 2020 April 15, 2020 June 24, 2020 2020 ASCENT DANIEL KYRI at national, local Local queer actor on Feb. 19, 2020 April 29, 2020 July 8, 2020 Chicago, coming out on TV. LGBTQ developments 7 OR 8 PASSENGERS Photo courtesy of Kyri 2020 SUBARU ASCENT STARTING ON PAGE 4

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Laws Looking back at 2019: which prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation are being continuously challenged by churches and business owners who claim the First National LGBTQ headlines Amendment to the constitution gives them a reli- gious liberty to violate those non-discrimination BY LISA KEEN candidates, and held onto to that position while laws. The U.S. Supreme Court dispensed with two KEEN NEWS SERVICE candidates who were much better known fell such cases in 2019 (refusing to hear Aloha v. away. His success continued throughout the year, Cervelli and sending back Klein v. Oregon), but One might argue that 2019 was a pretty good year helped by an early staking out of a moderate po- more have arrived. The latest is Fulton v. Phila- for LGBT people. An openly gay man rose to the sition just as progressive candidates were taking delphia, which asks the high court to overturn top tier of a large field of Democratic presidential heat for appealing for dramatic changes, such as a Third Circuit opinion that a local government candidates. A second openly LGBTQ person was Medicare for All. Buttigieg pitched “Medicare for can refuse funding to a Catholic run foster care sworn into the U.S. Senate. A record number of All Who Want It,” spoke openly about how his re- agency because the agency refuses to abide by a openly LGBTQ candidates won office to Congress ligious faith informs his views, and proved to be city ordinance that prohibits sexual orientation Lesbian icon Ellen DeGeneres shared a box seat a respectful but formidable contender in debate. discrimination. with former Republican President George W. Bush By December, he held first place in Iowa poll- 6. Hate crime numbers haunt: At least 22 at a football game. And Republican President ing, second place in New Hampshire polling, and transgender people of color were murdered in Donald Trump issued a statement to “celebrate fourth place in national polling. 2019, a statistic that has haunted the LGBTQ LGBTQ Pride Month.” But with success in any presidential bid comes community and drawn the notice of many Demo- Others might argue that 2019 was a year of additional scrutiny and challenge. In May, two cratic presidential candidates. It’s not that the looming and unresolved battles over the heart Republican operatives tried to promote a false Former U.S. Rep. Katie Hill. number itself was so different than in previous and soul of American democracy and the harbin- accusation that Buttigieg had sexually assault- Official Congressional photo years (which averaged 22 per year), noted the ger of uncertainty about the future for the po- ed two men, but both of those men denied the Human Rights Campaign in its now annual re- litical and legal movements for LGBTQ equality. claims. In October, he was criticized for being Democrat-controlled U.S. House began impeach- port on violence against transgender people. It’s However, one assesses the year in LGBTQ news, too straight-looking and derided as “Mary Pete.” ment proceedings late this year against Trump, that they are now seen to reflect “intersections here are some of the year’s most headline-grab- And at year’s end, Buttigieg was still struggling unleashing a torrent of partisan fighting for the of racism, sexism and transphobia” in the United bing news stories to consider: to prove he could win support from African-Amer- very soul of the country. States that is “sometimes ruthlessly endorsed 1. Buttigieg surges to the top: Pete Butti- ican voters and fending off suggestions that his The two charges are that: 1. Trump abused the and enforced by those at the highest level of our gieg’s success with his longshot bid to win the post-graduate work for a conservative manage- power of his office to pressure the Ukraine gov- government,” said Alphonso David, HRC’s new Democratic nomination for president could prob- ment consulting firm, McKinsey, included work ernment to announce that it was investigating a president. ably take up all 10 slots of any “LGBTQ Top Sto- that led to the loss of jobs for many. So far, he rival 2020 presidential contender (lead Democrat The Hate Crimes Statistics report filed annually ries” list for 2019. has astutely navigated a daunting landscape and Joe Biden) and 2. that he obstructed Congress by the Federal Bureau of Investigation showed He became not only the first openly gay person blown through a wall that most LGBTQ people ex- by deliberately interfering with the ability of the a 34 percent increase in the number of victims to seek the Democratic presidential nomination, pected would block a path to the White House for House to interview crucial witnesses and examine of anti-transgender crimes in 2018, compared to he raised enough support to participate in the any gay person in their lifetimes. Win or lose, he documents. 2017. During that same time period, there was a first official Democratic debate, quickly surged to could well become 2020’s top story, too. There were a few openly LGBTQ players dur- nine percent increase in crimes against gay, les- a top five slot in a field of more than 20 viable 2. Supreme Court tackles Title VII: The U.S. ing the proceedings, including openly gay U.S. bian, and bisexual victims, but a decrease in hate Supreme Court in October heard oral arguments Reps. David Cicilline and Sean Patrick Maloney, crimes victims overall. The significance of these about whether existing federal law—Title VII of who serve on the key committees involved in numbers is dependent in part on how well law the Civil Rights Act—already prohibits discrimi- the impeachment proceedings. And Stanford law enforcement agencies identify and report specific nation in employment based on two things: sex- professor Pam Karlan was a key witness before hate crimes. But there’s no denying that, if there ual orientation and gender identity. one committee, serving as an expert on constitu- is any inaccuracy in the reporting, the true in- The court’s eventual ruling on each issue, ex- tional law regarding impeachment. The full House cidence of hate crimes against LGBTQ people is pected by next June, will have profound con- passed both articles Dec. 18, and is expected to likely higher and increasing every year. sequences for LGBTQ people everywhere in the send the charges to the Senate for trial. That Re- 7. Senate confirms gay man to Ninth Circuit: U.S. And it could be a mixed outcome: The court publican-dominated body is expected to address The U.S. Senate, in December, voted to confirm could rule one way for sexual orientation and a the issue in January and vote, along party lines, Patrick Bumatay, an openly gay prosecutor from different way for transgender status. Conserva- to acquit the president. That much is known and San Diego, to a seat on the nation’s largest fed- tive Justice Neil Gorsuch articulated that he was essentially predictable. What remains to be seen eral appeals court. National LGBTQ legal groups “really close” to seeing how the law already pro- is how the U.S. voters will respond in next No- said nothing, but Log Cabin Republicans hailed tects each category, but he said he was worried vember’s presidential election. the appointment, noting that it makes Bumatay about the “massive social upheaval” that might 4. HHS seeks to deny health care: The U.S. the “highest ranking LGBTQ jurist in the nation.” take place if the court rules for either. Because Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) The only other openly gay person on a federal ap- Gorsuch is seen as being part of the conservative announced in May that it would “substantially peals court is Todd Hughes, who was confirmed to five-person majority on the court, media atten- revise” language in the Affordable Care Act to the Federal Circuit in 2013. Meanwhile, the con- tion riveted to him following oral argument. eliminate protections against discrimination firmation of Bumatay in December and a lesbian, But even progressive Justice Sonia Sotomayor based on gender identity in health care. Mary Rowland, to a U.S. District Court seat in hinted she was concerned about what the court’s The announcement came just three days after Illinois, were overshadowed by confirmations of ruling might have on the “raging” bathroom is- HHS published a final rule that enabled health federal appeals court nominees—including Ste- sue. Those who fear change will argue that a care providers to refuse to provide certain ser- ven Menashi to the Second Circuit, and Lawrence “No” from the Supreme Court on either or both vices by claiming they had religious or moral be- VanDyke to the Ninth—vehemently opposed by questions will simply preserve the status quo. But liefs that compelled them to refuse. Such “Denial LGBTQ groups,. that status quo prohibits discrimination based of Care” rules have been primarily aimed against 8. Two LGBTQ presidential forums: While on an employee’s LGBTQ status in only 21 states women who seek an abortion or emergency con- LGBTQ issues were not an especially prominent and provides little likelihood of passage for the traception, terminally ill patients wanting to topic during the nationally televised Democratic Equality Act that seeks to provide protection na- accelerate a painful dying process, and LGBTQ debates in 2019, there were two national presi- tionwide. Pete Buttigieg. people generally. But by year’s end, three differ- dential forums devoted to LGBTQ issues this year. 3. House impeaches President Trump: The Official mayoral photo ent federal district judges ruled that the finalized Turn to page 5 WINDY CITY TIMES Dec. 25, 2019 5 PASSAGES W. Geoffrey Pritzlaff W. Geoffrey “Geo” Pritzlaff passed away unex- pectedly Dec. 13. He was 46. A native of Rockford, Illinois, Pritzlaff was a Whether you’re upsizing, down- technology product manager working for Cars. com. sizing, rightsizing, or staying put, He loved Star Trek, Doctor Who, Madonna, Transformers, cooking and entertaining. we wish you and your family... Pritzlaff was the beloved husband and best friend of Marc F. Cicora, dear nephew of Doug and Nancy Newman, and son of the late Carol Ann Pritzlaff (nee Newman). Also, he was the faith- ful companion of Daemon, the huskye/malamute mix, and Bigby, the shepherd-mix. Friends are gathering 2-5:30pm (eulogies be- gin 2:30 p.m.) on Saturday, Jan. 18, 2020, at The Call, 1547 W. Bryn Mawr Ave.. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his name to offset medical and final expenses: https://www.gofundme.com/f/memorial-for- geoffrey-pritzaff?utm_medium=copy_link&utm_ source=customer&utm_campaign=p_lico+share- sheet. Arrangements by Cremation Society of Illinois, W. Geoffrey Pritzlaff. 773-281-5058 or Cremation-socety.com Photo from Cremation Society of Illinois Peace, Health, & Happiness in the New Year! NATIONAL from page 4 departments of Education, Homeland Security, and State. It is a concerted effort to eliminate Both involved Democratic candidates only, and and/or diminish protections for LGBTQ people one was nationally televised on CNN during prime and it will almost certainly continue in 2020— time hours. and beyond, should Trump be elected to a second The first forum was livestreamed from Cedar term. Rapids, Iowa, and most of the major Democratic 10. Katie Hill forced out: Openly bisexual U.S. candidates showed up. The CNN town hall in Oc- Rep. Katie Hill was a rising superstar among the tober was the first national television broadcast first-term Democrats entering the newly minted by a major media outlet of LGBTQ-specific dis- Democratic majority in the U.S. House in January. cussion with presidential candidates. The latter She was one of only 14 Democratic members of was an opportunity for voters to hear how the the House to be voted by colleagues to the House candidates mostly agreed on a variety of LGBTQ Democratic leadership team, and she was desig- issues and support equal rights and protection for nated vice chair of the House Oversight commit- LGBTQ people. It was also a chance for straight tee which was helping with the impeachment voters to see and hear from a wide diversity of investigation against President Trump. But by LGBTQ audience members, asking their questions, October, a right-wing website targeted her with expressing their concerns, and telling their sto- claims that she had sexual relationships with a ries. former campaign staffer and a current Congres- 9. Trump versus the LGBTQ community: The sional staffer. The website illustrated its report Trump administration has continued apace in its with photos of Hill nude in private settings. And efforts to undermine rights and protections for the House Committee on Ethics initiated an in- LGBTQ people through the federal government. vestigation into whether Hill had a prohibited In 2019 alone, the Department of Defense was relationship with a Congressional staffer. Hill able to put the trans ban into effect while it is denied the charge but resigned her seat within being challenged in court, and the Department of days, saying she believes the attack had been Housing and Urban Development proposed rules helped by her estranged and “abusive” husband Brad Lippitz Group to allow homeless shelters receiving federal funds and “because of the thousands of vile, threaten- to turn away transgender people. In addition to ing emails, texts, and calls that make me fear for HHS’s rules to allow health care providers to my life and the lives of the people I care about.” 773.404.1144 deny care to LGBTQ people (See “Denial of Care” In an op-ed essay for the New York Times Hill [email protected] above), the Department of Justice took sides made clear that House Speaker Nancy Pelosi did bradlippitz.com against LGBTQ people in important cases before not force her to resign but rather “told me I 3323 N. Broadway the U.S. Supreme Court regarding the reach of didn’t have to” resign. Hill said that, ultimately, Brad Lippitz has supported and contributed more to employment protections under the Civil Rights she felt she needed to resign “for me, my family, LGBTQ causes and candidates over the years than any Act’s Title VII. my staff, my colleagues, my community.” But in other real estate broker in Chicago. And Brad’s team This year, the Department of Labor proposed a her farewell speech on the floor of the House, Hill happens to be in the top 10 in all Chicago with over $80 rule change to “clarify” that religious organiza- vowed, “We will not stand down. We will not be million sold in 2018. If you need to choose a real estate tions could require employees “share” their reli- broken, We will not be silenced. We will rise, and broker, why wouldn’t you choose a community leader Compass Real Estate is a licensed real estate broker with a principal office York,in New NY and abidesbut by isall subject applicable to errors, Equal omissions, Housing Opportunity changes in price, laws. condition, All material sale, orpresented withdrawal hereinherein without shallis intended notice. be construed for No statementinformational as legal, is made accounting aspurposes to the accuracy oronly. other ofInformation any description. professional is compiled advice All measurements outsidefrom sources the realm anddeemed square of real reliable estate footages brokerage. are approximate. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. Nothing gious beliefs, a move that LGBTQ legal activists we will make tomorrow better than today.” who consistently gives back year after year? Brad looks say gives a green light to discrimination against ©2019 Keen News Service. All rights re- forward to working with you! LGBTQ people. The list goes on and includes the served. 6 Dec. 25, 2019 WINDY CITY TIMES lons dotting the Halsted Street landscape—and which are the basis of the Legacy Walk outdoor 2019: The year in museum—officially became city landmarks on July 24. —More Pritzker signings: On Aug. 9, the local LGBTQ news governor signed at least three pieces of legisla- tion that benefited the LGBT community. HB 246 COMPILED BY MATT SIMONETTE of a lawsuit seeking to bar transgender students from using the locker room of the gender with ensured the contributions of LGBTQ people are A new year in Chicago meant new developments, which they identify at District 211 in Palatine. taught in public schools. Another measure (SB ranging from pro-LGBTQ measures to anti-trans —Council changes: The Chicago aldermanic 1378) protected LGBT persons from discrimina- vandalism to a history-making mayor. runoff races that were initially too close to call tion in jury service. Lastly, SB 1379 made LGBTQ older adults and people living with HIV target —Breaking ground: Lamont J. Robinson Jr. were settled later in April—and lesbian Ald. Deb became the first out Black LGBTQ Illinois General Mell (33rd Ward) lost her seat while gay Ald. populations in aging programs funded through Assembly member following his swearing-in cer- James Cappleman (46th Ward) narrowly retained the federal Older Americans Act. emony as the 5th district representative Jan. 2. his. Also, queer Ald. Maria Hadden (49th Ward) —More Palatine: Officials from Palatine-Scha- umburg High School District 211 said Sept. 19 —Rise in the ranks: Illinois House Speaker was elected. Michael J. Madigan issued a statement Jan. 10 —Lots of Pride: Throughout the spring, nu- that they would be considering over the fall how announcing his appointment of openly gay state merous Pride celebrations were announced in to determine logistics of a policy that would per- Rep. Greg Harris as House majority leader. Chicago suburbs and exurbs, among them Wood- mit transgender students to use the locker rooms corresponding to the gender with which they —Stanton arrest: A 17-year-old was arrested stock, Joliet, Highwood and Buffalo Grove. The for the murder of Dejanay Stanton, a transgender Aurora Pride parade ran into difficulties when its identify, according to reports. Chicagoan who was killed in August 2018. expenses multiplied, but was able to raise the —Andersonville support: Women & Children First bookstore, the Chicago Therapy Collective —Swearing in: Longtime Cook County Circuit needed funds. Court Judge James Snyder, who is gay, swore in —New lawsuit: Eight transgender Illinoisans and Andersonville Chamber of Commerce joined Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker the early afternoon of filed a lawsuit, on May 1, against Cook County of- forces Oct. 20 in a community activation event Jan. 14. ficials, maintaining that name-change laws per- Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot. responding to multiple instances of anti-trans vandalism directed at the store. —Campaign lawsuit: A transgender woman taining to convicted felons are inherently biased Official photo who worked as a field organizer for the JB for against transgender persons. —Chick-fil-A protest: A group of suburban tions against inmates and guards—was freed last Governor campaign, the organization whose work —Progress controversy: Affinity Community activists held a “family-friendly” protest Thurs- summer. won J.B. Pritzker the governorship in 2018, sued Services, Chicago Black Gay Men’s Caucus and day, Nov. 14—the opening day of a new Deerfield —Confirmation: The U.S. Senate in July con- the campaign in federal court, alleging that she Lighthouse Church of Chicago members and their Chick-fil-A franchise. firmed lesbian magistrate Mary Rowland to a U.S. was fired on the basis of her sex, among other allies protested against Boystown’s Progress Bar —Pastoral closing: Greg O’Neill and Ken Mill- district court judgeship in Illinois. She was sworn factors. June 2 following seemingly anti-persons of color er—the couple who founded and owned Chicago into office in November. business Pastoral Artisan Cheese, Bread & Wine— —County ordinance: Cook County Commis- directives from the bar’s owner. The owner even- —More Halsted Street news: The rainbow py- sioner Kevin B. Morrison announced an ordinance tually met with protestors. Lighthouse eventually closed it in November, after 15 years. to establish a Committee on Addressing Bias, Eq- carried out additional action against Center on uity, and Cultural Competency on Jan. 24. Halsted as the summer continued. —Runoff: Chicagoan Lori Lightfoot, the first —Community support: Cook County Commis- Black lesbian mayoral candidate in the city’s his- sioner Kevin B. Morrison called on residents to tory, won the Feb. 26 general election with about support one another amidst bullying and harass- 17.69 percent of the vote. She thus faced off ment of an LGBTQ youth in Barrington in June. April 2 against runner-up candidate Cook County —Rainbow crossing: Crosswalks in Boystown Board President Toni Preckwinkle, who garnered were painted in the colors of rainbow flags in about 15.95 percent of the vote June. —Moving: The Night Ministry, the Chicago- —New CEO: Chicago House announced that its based advocacy for persons experiencing home- board of trustees appointed Michael Herman as lessness, announced Feb. 22 that its Lake View its newest CEO. facility for young adults, the Crib, would likely —Clerk candidate: Campaign activist and be leaving for a new location in the Bucktown civil-rights attorney Jacob Meister launched his neighborhood. campaign for Cook County Clerk of the Circuit —Jussie’s mess: A Cook County grand jury in Court last summer. His presumed opponent, long- February charged embattled Empire actor Jussie time clerk Dorothy Brown, later announced she Smollett in a 16-count indictment that main- would not be seeking re-election. tained he lied to Chicago authorities about be- —Executive orders: On June 30, shortly be- ing the victim of an allegedly phony attack the fore the Pride parade began, Gov. J.B. Pritzker month before. The charges were dropped, but the signed an executive order protecting transgender, Chicago-Kent Lambdas' Elisabeth Hieber (left) and Tobias Rodriguez. case continued to inspire waves of litigation and gender non-conforming and non-binary students Photo courtesy of Chicago-Kent College of Law controversy. Smollet was eventually let go from throughout the state. The next month, he signed Empire. an order that single-occupancy restrooms shall nonbinary and gender non-conforming (GNC) —Victory: Attorney and former federal pros- be designated and labeled as “all-gender” or Law school awarded members of the law school community. ecutor Lori Lightfoot handily won the Chicago’s “gender-neutral.” The Chicago-Kent Lambdas, a student orga- for TGNC efforts nization for LGBTQ students and their allies, mayor’s office on April 2, becoming not only the —Rained out: The 2019 Chicago Pride Parade Chicago-Kent College of Law recently re- first Black female mayor in the city’s history, but was initially halted and spectators told to seek worked with the law school administration to ceived the 2019 Henry J. Ramsey, Jr. Diversity create two gender-neutral restrooms as well as its first openly lesbian mayor as well, carrying all shelter at about 2:15 p.m. on June 30 when a se- Award from the Law Student Division of the 50 wards in the city. She was sworn in May 20, vere storm erupted, drenching parade goers and to encourage members of the law school com- American Bar Association. munity to share their pronouns in their email with her wife at her side. participants. City officials halted the procession The award—named in honor of Henry J. —End in sight: Long-running litigation involv- because of the potential for lightning and high signatures and on name tags. Ramsey Jr., who served as dean of the Howard The restrooms in the Chicago Loop building ing public-accommodations access for transgen- winds. The parade was then cancelled outright. University School of Law from 1990 to 1996— der students in the Northwest suburbs came to a —Freedom: Strawberry Hampton—a trans- opened for use at the beginning of the fall recognizes Chicago-Kent’s efforts to create a 2018 semester. seeming end April 15, when U.S. District Judge gender woman who was transferred to multiple more welcoming environment for transgender, Jorge Alonso on Monday approved the dismissal Illinois men’s prisons after making abuse allega- WINDY CITY TIMES Dec. 25, 2019 7

Left to right: Modesto Tico Valle, John AIDS Garden Chicago Chikow, Victoria Noe, Willa Lang, Lorraine Kells, Michael Dimitroff, Tom Tunney, Anne Black, Paige Zelinsky, Dennis Rosenthal, supporters celebrate Victor Salvo, Janet Sumrall, Owen Keehnen, Sandra Olson, Michael Garzel, Roberta Saper, Sonia Horvath and Chris Jessup. Haring art installation Photo by Carrie Maxwell BY CARRIE MAXWELL Tunney said the lack of a response to the AIDS epidemic was the catalyst for his decision to run AIDS Garden Chicago supporters gathered Dec. for alderman. He spoke about the history of the 20 at the lakefront garden site south of Belmont Belmont Rocks and his goal of retaining much Harbor (near the location of the now-defunct Bel- of that landscape during the revetment process mont Rocks) to celebrate the installation of the along the lakefront as well as his over a decade- 30-foot Keith Haring sculpture “Self Portrait.” long dream of making this garden come alive. The sculpture is a unique larger version of a Rosenthal Fine Art, Inc’s Dennis Rosenthal smaller piece that the late iconic artist/AIDS spoke about how eager the Keith Haring Founda- activist Haring created in 1989 with the same tion was to have this sculpture as the garden’s name, and will serve as AIDS Garden Chicago’s anchor point. anchor point. The garden is Chicago’s first public Legacy Project Executive Director Victor Salvo monument to memorialize and educate people said the garden’s role is to “capture the story about the city’s continuing HIV/AIDS epidemic of HIV/AIDS in Chicago” with a winding path and is set to be completed sometime in 2020. through the garden featuring memorials in chron- This sculpture installation is the culmination ological order. He explained that this part of the of almost two years of work by Ald. Tom Tun- garden will come at a later date. ney (44th Ward), who enlisted the Chicago Parks Local community gardener Lorraine Kells spoke Foundation to be the garden’s fiscal partner and about the garden design while Chicago Park Dis- facilitator in securing the gift from the Keith Har- trict Manager of Art Initiatives Michael Dimitroff ing Foundation. said the park district is always looking for new AIDS Garden Chicago’s community partners ways to utilize the lakefront and this garden will include Tunney’s office, Chicago Parks Founda- give the space a vibrancy that it has not had for tion, Chicago Park District, AIDS Foundation of many decades. Chicago, Alphawood Foundation Chicago, Center Lastly, Chicago Parks Foundation Executive on Halsted, Design Workshop, Friends of the Park, Director Willa Lang spoke about the road to Howard Brown Health, Keith Haring Foundation, completion and future plans to raise awareness The Legacy Project, Michael Garzel Graphic De- about the garden throughout Chicago. She said sign, Rosenthal Fine Art, Inc., TAWANI Founda- the fundraising process is ongoing and called on tion and The Silverman Group, Inc., with more to attendees to spread the word about the garden. come. AIDS Garden Chicago leadership will be meeting A breakfast reception took place at the Belmont to discuss next steps. Yacht Club following officials and supporters tak- See AIDSGardenchicago.org for more informa- ing pictures at the sculpture. tion and/or to make a donation.

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STIGMA FREE SERVICES INCLUDE: • Primary Medical Care • HIV Specialty Care • Behavioral Health & Substance Use • STI Testing & Treatment • PrEP • Hormone Administration & Monitoring odhcil.org 8 Dec. 25, 2019 WINDY CITY TIMES She further underscored that her understanding help any of us when we’re working for laws or of the LGBT-rights movement grew out of her time protections that aren’t able to support all LG- Affinity ED leaving at Chicago organizations: “Working at Broadway BTQ folks—they’re also experiencing racism and Youth Center, I saw a specific need that LGBTQ transphobia, or they don’t have the economic youth experiencing homelessness and housing power to fully appreciate what we’re doing.” instability [have]. At Affinity, I’ve been able to Affinity Community Services serves the needs to head NCLR see how racism is very much present in the LGBTQ of Chicago’s Black LGBTQ community, with a par- community. We see that people still experience ticular focus on Black women. NCLR, founded in BY MATT SIMONETTE needs, and their family’s needs, within the LGBTQ oppression, even within the community.” 1977 by Donna Hitchins, is “committed to ad- movement. Too often, folks feel like they have Considering intersectionality means consider- vancing the human and civil rights of the les- Affinity Community Services Executive Director to give up part of themselves to be part of the ing how any issue can ultimately be an LGBTQ bian, gay, bisexual, and transgender community Imani Rupert-Gordon has been named as the new LGBTQ community. We know how difficult that is issue, Rupert-Gorden said. through litigation, public policy advocacy and executive director of the San Francisco-based when you’re someone who experiences oppres- “We do have to start looking at everything public education,” according to the organization. legal advocacy organization National Center for sion on multiple levels.” within our movement,” she added. “It doesn’t Lesbian Rights (NCLR). The move was announced by the respective organizations Dec. 17. Baim guest speaker at CME/HRC event BY CARRIE MAXWELL

Chicago Reader Publisher and Windy City Times owner Tracy Baim was the featured speaker at a Dec. 10 CME Group LGBTQ PRIDE Employee Group/ Human Rights Campaign (HRC) Chicago at Can- tina Laredo restaurant. CME Group Corporate Communications Director and PRIDE Employee Group President Matthew Stroud and HRC Chicago Steering Committee member Celeste Wright spearheaded this event. Stroud and CME Group Executive Director of Finance Sam Coady welcomed the crowd, with Tracy Baim and Sam Coady. Coady speaking about knowing Baim for about 35 Photo by Carrie Maxwell years and that they worked together on the 2006 Gay Games when the event came to Chicago. He corporations can give back to LGBT organizations tecting their brains, knowing their does, avoiding said the 2006 Gay Games garnered more than 300 that need it the most. Baim suggested they look frequent use, not driving while high and abstain- corporate sponsor,s including CME Group. into the ones based on the South and West sides ing if one if pregnant or breast-feeding. “Tracy has been at the forefront of seeing the of Chicago, such as Affinity Community Services, For more information, visit https://www.chica- Imani Rupert-Gordon. LGBT movement in all of its forms,” said Coady. ALMA and Brave Space Alliance among the dozen go.gov/city/en/depts/cdph/provdrs/healthy_liv- Photo courtesy of Affinity Baim’s remarks focused on the role of corpora- that are a high priority for funding needs. ing/svcs/cannabis-facts-chicago.html. tions within the LGBT movement and how that is Lastly, HRC Chicago Corporate Engagement Rupert-Gordon has has been involved in Chi- taken for granted by some in the community. She Co-chair Dru Holmquist welcomed HRC Chicago cago advocacy for some time. Prior to her current said that, at times, corporations would be open Board of Governors and Steering Committee Raoul joins other AGs position at Affinity, where she has worked for to LGBT inclusion but then backtrack when out- member Bonnie Johnson. Johnson said when HRC four years, she was executive director at Broad- in pro-trans brief side forces threatened them. Baim spoke about started the CEI in 2002, there were not a lot of way Youth Center. She leaves Affinity on February Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul joined a the early adopters, like entertainment companies companies willing to fill out the survey—as op- 14, 2020 and begins the NCLR job the following coalition of 23 attorneys general to file an amicus and alcohol brands, that began to advertise in posed to today, when 87 percent of Fortune 500 month. brief in the Court of Appeals for the 4th Circuit in LGBT media through Rivendell Media. companies participated in the 2019 survey. “This is a great opportunity to be part of the support of transgender rights in an anti-discrimi- Also, Baim spoke about co-founding the Chi- larger LGBTQ movement,” Rupert-Gordon said. “I nation lawsuit, Gavin Grimm v. Gloucester County cago LGBT Chamber of Commerce in 1996 and the absolutely love the work that we do at Affinity— School Board. survey they gave to Chicago-based businesses, Lightfoot, officials this is some of the most important work that’s Grimm, a former student at Virginia’s Gloucester adding that this survey was similar to the one done out there. But part of this work is allowing announce ‘Cannabis High School, sued the Gloucester County School HRC used for its Corporate Equality Index (CEI) other folks to be in a [leadership] position. I do Board in 2015—when he was still a student—for when it was created years later. Baim said corpo- think it is responsible to have some movement Facts’ campaign discrimination that banned him from using the rations also need to dig deeper and look at how within organizations, so other folks can have an With the legalization of cannabis in the state common male restrooms at his high school. they are impacting not only the LGBT community, opportunity to learn the amazing things that I of Illinois on Jan. 1, 2020, Chicago Mayor Lori E. Raoul and the coalition argue that transgender but also people with disabilities and communi- got to learn at Affinity. When this position pre- Lightfoot and the Chicago Department of Public individuals have the right “to live with dignity, ties of color with their business practices. sented itself—working at the national level—I Health (CDPH) are issuing guidance and precau- be free from discrimination, and have equal ac- Baim switched gears to focus specifically on just felt like I have something to give and I’m tionary information for those who plan to con- cess to education, employment, housing, public the 2006 Chicago Gay Games, including a primer excited to be part of it.” sume products recreationally. accommodations, and other necessities of life.” on the history of the event and its founder, Dr. Rupert-Gordon thinks that there is increasing To ensure a safe and responsible implementa- Nearly 1.5 million people in the United Tom Waddell, and the role she and other orga- appreciation for inclusivity and intersectionality tion of legalized cannabis, the City is rolling out States—including approximately 150,000 teen- nizers played in getting corporate sponsors. She within the realm of LGBT rights, and she looks a new public service awareness campaign called agers—identify as transgender. spoke about some of the roadblocks they expe- forward to helping build that appreciation within Cannabis Facts Chicago aimed at offering resi- Joining Raoul in filing the brief are the attor- rienced as well as Kraft’s $25,000 grant to the the wider parameters of a national organization dents, particularly parents and guardians, infor- neys general of California, Colorado, Connecticut, Games. Baim read a letter from then Kraft Foods like NCLR. mation on the potential impact of recreational Delaware, Hawaii, Maine, Maryland, Massachu- Inc. Executive Vice President, Corporate Counsel “I really would like to see out LGBTQ move- cannabis as well as tips for adults on how to setts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, and Corporate Secretary Marc Firestone sent to ment become a racial justice movement, and a consume cannabis safely if they choose to do so. New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Oregon, all employees in 2005 about why the company gender-justice movement, and an economic-jus- The City is encouraging residents considering Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, decided to award the grant to the Gay Games. tice movement, for example,” she explained. “I consuming cannabis (and who must be at least Washington and the District of Columbia. During the Q&A session, one person asked how want folks to be able to see themselves and their 21) to review health and safety tips, such as pro- WINDY CITY TIMES Dec. 25, 2019 9 Chicago LGBTQ leaders named as 2020 Bon Foster co-chairs

Lambda Legal announced the co-chairs of its 2020 Bon Foster civil-rights celebration. The co-chairs are: —Susan Blake and Pat Ewert: Blake and Ew- ert are leaders in Chicago’s LGBTQ women’s com- munity. Blake takes an active interest in many LGBTQ causes and supports many local LGBTQ charities. Ewert, a plaintiff in Lambda’s case ex- pediting marriage equality in Illinois with then- partner Vernita Gray, currently works for Illinois Rep. Lamont Robinson, the state’s first LGBTQ African-American elected official. —Julius Carter: Carter is an attorney at Den- tons, where he serves on their litigation and dispute resolution practice focusing on complex commercial litigation. He also has experience ad- vising clients on media and entertainment, real estate and products liability matters. —Timothy and Patryk Carwinski: Tim, an at- torney with Reed Smith LLP, worked at Lambda Legal from 2009-2011 as a law fellow. Pat works at AAM, a third-party asset manager for insurance Channyn Lynn Parker. companies. Tim and Pat have been married since WCT photo 2015, after a prolonged engagement awaiting Lambda’s eventual success in achieving marriage Lambda Legal every year and is named after Rob- equality in Illinois. ert Bonvoullier “Bon” Foster, a Chicago attorney —Channyn Lynne Parker: Parker is an advocate, and civil rights leader who died in 1991 from public speaker and community-centric leader, complications from AIDS. Foster left a significant currently working for Howard Brown Health Cen- gift to Lambda Legal, to open the regional office ter, and serving on the board of Equality Illinois. in Chicago. Channyn is most noted for speaking at the Chica- For more information or to purchase tickets to go Women’s March and being the recipient of the this year’s event, visit LambdaLegal.org/bonfos- Equality Illinois Humanitarian, Freedom Award. ter. The Bon Foster event raises $500,000 for

alternatively lists Myles in the field reserved Trans parents ask for “father/co-parent” and Precious as “moth- er/co-parent,” a Lambda Legal press release state not to noted. “We trust that IDPH will honor Myles’ and misgender them Precious’ request and issue a birth certificate on baby’s certificate that does not misgender them and accurately Myles Brady Davis and Precious Brady-Davis reflects their parentage,” said Kara Ingelhart, recently announced the arrival of their child, staff attorney at Lambda Legal. “Illinois has who was born earlier this month—and have been a leader in taking steps to protect, rec- made a request of the state. ognize and respect the humanity and dignity Myles, who carried and gave birth to their of transgender and gender non-conforming baby and identifies as transmasculine, and Pre- people, such as facilitating access to accurate cious, his wife who is a transgender woman, government-issued identity documents, pro- have requested that the Illinois Department of hibiting discrimination on the basis of gender Public Health (IDPH) issue an accurate birth identity, and improving access to gender-af- certificate that does not misgender them and firming health care for those receiving Medic- either describes them both as “co-parents,” or aid.”

@windycitytimes /windycitymediagroup

@windycitytimes www.windycitymediagroup.com 10 Dec. 25, 2019 WINDY CITY TIMES viewpoints

ways. We were at a Japanese restaurant avoiding all decent paying jobs available to all Americans, young things sushi, which may be another characteristic of to old. I want guns restricted at least at a slightly aging Americans: stir-fry yes, raw fish and seaweed, higher level than water flossers. I want to possess LEE emphatically no. Nor is wasabi, however delicious, the loving graciousness to say yes when my sweet- LYNCH compatible with elder guts. It’s so spicy it reminds heart invites me to accompany her to the Tom Hanks me how getting high used to feel. movie “Mr. Rogers.” Without gagging. THE AMAZON TRAIL We were well into slurping up our safe bowls of But I just listened to my first podcasts and it VOL. 35, No. 07, Dec. 25, 2019 yakisoba when the Handydyke mentioned her acqui- would be terrific to enjoy them in stereo. Podcasts The combined forces of Windy City Times, All I want for the sition of a cordless water flosser. “Water ends up were scary for me. My first problem was: why pod- founded Sept. 1985, and Outlines newspaper, everywhere!” she said. “It makes a mess of the whole casts? My second was, if you ever figure out their founded May 1987. holidays is a bathroom!” use, how do you listen to them? There was some “Me too!” I agreed. “I can’t control mine. Last sort of electronic trickery involved, obviously, and if PUBLISHER Terri Klinsky left earbud night I sprayed the ceiling.” I can’t operate a water flosser, what hope was there This is true. The cat’s afraid to be in the room for me to conquer podcasts? EXECUTIVE EDITOR Andrew Davis Not really. My greatest wishes would be for world with me. Where are the industrial designers when Then my sweetheart presented me with wireless peace, a year of pain-free good health for all my MANAGING EDITOR Matt Simonette we need them? The power buttons on these things earbuds. I was relieved she didn’t hold my dislike of family, friends, and neighbors, and a brand-new DIGITAL DIRECTOR Jean Albright are impossible to find by feel, and my glasses are so Tom Hanks and disinterest in Mr. Rogers against me, ART DIRECTOR AND ASSOCIATE EDITOR president and Senate majority leader. quickly coated with a mix of water and mouthwash I but it took quite a while for me to tackle the cute Kirk Williamson It would, however, be nice if I could figure out Scott Duff can’t see the controls that were conveniently placed little gadgets. Once I did, though, it was full speed SOCIAL MEDIA DIRECTOR how to make my left wireless earbud work consis- BUSINESS MANAGER Ripley Caine on the side facing away from the user. I don’t want ahead. I now have all sorts of knowledge about the tently. They were free and all, so I know I can’t ex- SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Terri Klinsky, to spew the foamy stuff all over myself, so I avoid former mob in Providence, Rhode Island. About the Kirk Williamson pect perfection. A little technical expertise on my swallowing while I fumble for the kill switch, certain theft of a rare water lily from an exhibit in the Unit- NATIONAL SALES Rivendell Media, part would go a long way to making the new year 212-242-6863 I’m going to drown. The Handydyke and I choked on ed Kingdom. Why fruit flies aren’t always fruit flies. bright, as they say in the songs. Songs I can only THEATER AND DANCE EDITOR Catey Sullivan our noodles we laughed so hard at our ineptitude. How senators are able to cite laws and such as if SENIOR WRITERS Jonathan Abarbanel, Mary listen to with my right ear. But getting back to the earbud, I should mention they actually know them. Shen Barnidge, Charlsie Dewey, Ross Forman, Speaking of technical prowess, I have a hint for Carrie Maxwell, Rev. Irene Monroe, Jerry Nunn, that the set didn’t come with a manual. I shouted I can’t wait to go for a long walk so I can learn those buying grandma or an older friend a special Tony Peregrin, Angelique Smith, Sari Staver, into the void of the internet for help with this. A few how nail polishes are named and whether or not I’m gift this, or any, season. Whatever you do, do NOT Sarah Toce, Melissa Wasserman kind people responded that their earbuds had come living with a psychopath. Someday, I think I’ll be WRITERS Sarah Katherine Bowden, Ada Cheng, give someone you love a cordless water flosser, no with manuals. I feel kinda bad that I didn’t thank able to listen to the “Women and Words” podcasts by Sheri Flanders, Joe Franco, Veronica Harrison, matter how excited you are about yours. Of course, Kelsey Hoff, Aaron Hunt, Eric Karas, Brian Kirst, them or congratulate them or ask them if they were lesbian writers and readers, but right now, I’m stick- if you get excited about items like water flossers, Paige Listerud, Billy Masters, Scott C. Morgan, the reason Trump is president. ing with what Google has on offer because I learned Amelia Orozco, Ariel Parrella-Aureli, Kerry you’ve probably already given tutorials to any friend In the great scheme of things, I know my left by trial and error how to use it. Reid, Dana Rudolph, Ana Serna, Karen Topham, or relation who’d sit still. Regina Victor, Sean Margaret Wagner, Lauren earbud isn’t essential or important to some people. In my right ear. And never when I’m gagging while I had lunch the other day with my friend the Warnecke, Steve Warren, Lauren Emily Whalen There are things even I want more. Like, I want our immersed in a fracas with my unruly water flosser. SENIOR PHOTOGRAPHERS Kat Fitzgerald, Hal Handydyke, who is in her mid-eighties. I’m a dozen democracy back. I want to spend an enormous chunk Copyright Lee Lynch 2019 Baim, Tim Carroll, Ed Negron, Vernon Hester years younger, but we experience life in many similar CIRCULATION DIRECTOR Jean Albright of defense funds to halt global warming and make December 2019 DISTRIBUTION Ashina, Allan, Dan, John, Sue and Victor WEB HOSTING LoveYourWebsite.com (lead letters programmer: Martie Marro) PRESIDENT Tracy Baim I understand that Pfeiffer’s husband, Tim Frye, promotes a level of consumption that is sinful and (773) 871-7610 FAX (773) 871-7609 Pride Parade’s future Editorial: [email protected] wants to take over the Pride Parade to honor Rich- dangerous to Mother Earth. We all must learn mod- Sales: [email protected] Dear Editor: ard. I hope Tim reconsiders. Our communities are po- eration. Poverty and overindulgence are the two ex- Calendar: [email protected] Circulation: [email protected] larized around politics, race, sex and gender-identity tremes of this social sin of misery. Art/ad copy: [email protected] I am concerned about the future of the Pride Parade concerns. His decision could be misunderstood as an Advocate without accusation, disagree without Theater: [email protected] act of white privilege. So many have given their lives disrespect, and see differences as places of encoun- going forward since the passing of Richard Pfeiffer— Copyright 2019 Lambda Publications Inc./Windy City Media may he rest in peace. Under Pfeiffer’s leadership over on the altar of racism. Focusing on our community’s ter rather than exclusion. The time is long past for Group; All rights reserved. Reprint by permission only. Back issues (if available) for $5 per issue (postage included). the years, the parade increased in participation and unity calls us .to a place of justice and compassion. women and people of color to take on leadership Return postage must accompany all manuscripts, drawings, and photographs submitted if they are to be returned, and became one of Chicago’s largest parades: a job well Those lost lives also need to be treated with dignity roles in guiding next year’s Pride Parade. no responsibility may be assumed for unsolicited materials. done. and remembrance. The urban fabric of overconsump- Our communities have many talented people, so All rights to letters, art and photographs sent to Windy City Times will be treated as unconditionally assigned It is my hope that the passing of the baton to the tion calls us to remember who our neighbor is, and that is not the difficulty. It is making time for each for publication purposes and as such, subject to editing and comment. The opinions expressed by the columnists, next generation of Pride leadership will adequately what love and remembrance require of us. Human other and volunteering your services honestly and cartoonists, letter writers, and commentators are their own represent the magnificent diversity of our communi- vanity should have no place in this matter. responsibly. and do not necessarily reflect the position of Windy City Times. Publication of the name, photograph, or likeness of ties. I think it is fair to say that Pfeiffer represented Poverty and overindulgence are the two extremes I will hold Richard and Tim in my prayers. a person or organization in articles or advertising in Windy City Times is not to be construed as any indication of the our community values, which is at the heart of our of misery. In my opinion, it is an example of indirect sexual orientation of such person or organization. While community vision and decisions. He highlighted the suicide. Life indeed is sacred and wonderful. Choose Joe Murray we encourage readers to support the advertisers who make this newspaper possible, Windy City Times cannot accept importance of hearing from marginalized voices in the road that makes death a fulfillment, not a cow- Executive Director responsibility for advertising claims. ard’s way out, that is dehumanizing, Rainbow Sash Movement (LGBTQ Roman Catholics) our communities, and in fighting the dehumaniza- WINDY CITY MEDIA GROUP, tion of the LGBTQA Communities. We are all part of that dehumanizing culture that 5315 N. Clark St. #192, Chicago, IL, 60640 U.S.A (MAILING ADDRESS ONLY)

Windy City Times Biweekly; Deadline every Wednesday prior to street date OUT! Chicago’s LGBTQ Visitor’s Guide Online annual Windy City Times Wedding and Events Guide Annual Send columns or letters to [email protected]. www.WindyCityMediaGroup.com Letters may be edited for brevity or clarity. WINDY CITY TIMES Dec. 25, 2019 11

THE BEST AND THE WORST OF CHICAGO THEATER IN 2019

PAGE 14

Mal Blasingame with the cast of 20/20. Photo by Michael Brosilow 12 Dec. 25, 2019 WINDY CITY TIMES THEATER REVIEW tween, Working is a musical about still waters THEATER REVIEW running deep within regular folks. Working Any show without a concrete story carries the The Holiday Radio Playwright: Book by Stephen Schwartz and risk of running hot and cold, and Working is no Nina Faso, music and lyrics by Schwartz and exception. Because it’s a collection of mono- Show: 1944 others, including James Taylor and logues and songs, no character sticks around for Playwright: Gabriella Bonamici, Lin-Manuel Miranda very long and is immediately replaced with an- Andre Richardson At: Theo Ubique’s Howard Street Theatre, other—sometimes without the actor in question Hogan II, Laura Scruggs, Rolfe Sick, 721 Howard St., Evanston exiting the stage. Director-choreographer Carter Jason Paul Smith Tickets: $42-57; theo-u.org (optional $29 works hard to smooth every transition, and the At: Three Cat Productions at the Berger Park dinner, reservations required) results are small but beautiful balletic moments Coach House, 6205 N. Sheridan Rd. Runs through: Jan. 26 when a shy third-grader morphs into a confident Tickets: ThreeCatProductions.com and flight attendant, for example. Standout songs 312-970-9840; $15-$25 BY LAUREN EMILY WHALEN include Miranda’s joyful tribute to food delivery Runs through: Jan. 4 (gleefully executed by Stephen Blu Allen), a full Jobs: Most people have one. These days, most cast number about long-haul truckers courtesy BY MARY SHEN BARNIDGE people have several. of Taylor and a rocking yet soulful romp called Legendary radio journalist Studs Terkel pub- “Cleanin’ Woman,” composed by Micki Grant and In 2017, the playwrights of the Three Cat “Art- lished Working in 1974, celebrating “the ex- executed by Cynthia F. Carter in a true tour de ists Incubator” collaborated on a holiday show traordinary dreams of ordinary people” through force performance. replicating a live radio broadcast in 1942, replete a compilation of interviews with people about These positives, however, don’t quite over- with music of the period, messages to troops their jobs. Theo Ubique’s production of Stephen whelm the negatives: A teacher’s lament quickly stationed overseas and tributes to the patriotic Schwartz’s Broadway musical adaptation—now Kiersten Frumkin and Cynthia F. Carter in becomes a problematic whine about how kids “Home Front” volunteers. updated with additional text and new songs by Working. don’t speak English anymore (her three students When this idea proved successful, Three Cat re- Lin-Manuel Miranda and James Taylor, among Photo by Austin Oie Photography played by actors of color), a food server repeat- turned the following year with another faux-radio others—is an interesting watch in the days of ried project manager deals with long hours and edly belts the “g*psy” slur and, even with the program, this one set in 1943, composed of new- late-stage capitalism. Director Christopher Chase wedgie-picking colleagues. A stonemason ex- updates, certain jobs (stay-at-home parent and ly collected material reflecting a society strug- Carter’s choreography and the ensemble cast are presses pride in his precise eye for detail and the the aforementioned waitress and teacher) are gling against despair during a bleak chapter in stunning, but Working is a mixed bag of down- permanence of his labor. After a retiree takes the presented as very gendered. our history. Audiences in 2019 may be comforted to-earth delights and cringeworthy text that audience through the ups and downs of everyday Working is a tough nut to crack and may not by hindsight regarding that war, but so long as shouldn’t have survived the ‘70s. existence, his caregiver explains why the difficult have stood the test of time. Still, there’s a cer- families and sweethearts are still forced to spend Over the course of two hours, three men and job of watching over others is equal parts frus- tain satisfaction watching the late Terkel’s mas- the holidays far from loved ones, it might as well three women play multiple characters who speak trating and rewarding. From the first paycheck terpiece in his home city, vocalized by astound- be 1944. and sing what “working” means to them. A har- to the unemployment line and everything in be- ing talent and, overall, handled with care. Our hosts for this occasion are, not surprisingly, all female—even the traditionally male-operated technical equipment is helmed by a woman, with a pianist representing the sole man in the cast. THEATER REVIEW little brother Richard may keep their plans se- Our emcees are solo chanteuses Dorothy Johnson cret, but middle-child John, the designated heir and Ivy Brown, this year flanked by a trio of war- Rutherford and Son to the Rutherford empire, not only has auda- blers wearing non-regulation WAC uniforms (no Playwright: Githa Sowerby ciously married an emancipated job-holding nylon stockings, though—there’s a war on, you At: Timeline Theatre Company at London woman, but has also invented a new know). Baird Hall, 615 W. Wellington Ave. budget-cutting method of glassmaking, which The evening’s agenda is dominated by songs, Tickets: TimelineTheatre.com he offers his father—in exchange for money to seasonal and secular, some familiar and some— and 773-281-8463; $42 provide his own wife and son a future of their less so. For example, the song listed in the Runs through: Jan. 12 own choosing. As the intrepid patriarch schemes playbill as “Santa Claus Is Coming” is not the to seize the property he considers rightfully due “Coming To Town” chestnut, but a vintage 1914 BY MARY SHEN BARNIDGE the family business, his exiled kin gradually ditty heralding the end of a different war. Even make their escape, leaving their inhumane pro- standard repertoire takes on a fresh energy with Theater historians and classroom curricula have genitor to bargain with the one Rutherford as jazz arrangements by music director/arranger Roy long credited Henrik Ibsen and George Bernard flinty and calculating as himself. Freeman, like the “Angel” medley combining the Shaw the chief proponents of realism in Western Playgoers anticipating a cheerful Shavian “Hark! The Herald” and “We Have Heard on High” drama for their exploration of domestic injustic- romp will realize their mistake at the first sight carols rendered with a hint of boogie-woogie es rarely examined by the privileged audiences of the gloomy Gothic Revival furnishings of the tempo. of the period. Rutherford mansion and whaleboned gowns The roster also encompasses dramatic dialogues In 1912, however—a mere two years be- worn by its female occupants. Under Timeline adapted from authors such as Mark Twain, Willa fore the cataclysmic devastation of World War Francis Guinan and August Forman in director Mechelle Moe, though, the minor-scale Cather, Charles Dickens—whose ”Ebesneezer Mc- I would forever change the social order of the Rutherford and Son. tone of this “lost” play never descends into Scrooge” now conducts business from his office European population—playwright Githa (pro- Photo by Lara Goetsch melodramatic parody, but instead turns its very on LaSalle Street and hoards ration coupons—and nounced “Gee-tha”) Sowerby warned her native darkness to advantage, forging transcendent African-American journalist Augustus M. Hodges’ England of the price exacted by the unfettered of his successors, ironically, he has adopted a moments of defiance pointing the way to hope. 1894 poem “The Christmas Reunion Down At rise of industry and the utilitarian principles en- relentlessly pragmatic cosmology crippling his The muscular cast displays actorly stamina well Martinsville.” Most stirring, however, are the let- gendered thereby. children’s spiritual growth. Prohibited from frat- meeting the demands of an exposition-heavy ters, read over the air, reflecting the loneliness of For two generations, the Northeast Midlands ernizing with the village dwellers, shunned by play featuring the difficult “Geordie” dialect— sons, husbands and fathers stranded on military firm of Rutherford and Son have manufactured the gentry as upstarts born of “commerce” the the latter courtesy of associate director Eva bases, of daughters, wives and mothers training “plain and lasting” pressed glass in its furnaces three now-grown siblings have emerged from an Brenemen—while Timeline’s always astute dra- as nurses or toiling in munitions factories and of and kilns. The first Rutherford “son” referenced upbringing of forced idleness under the tyranny maturgs provide sufficient playbill annotations children exiled to live with grandparents for the in the company’s name has devoted his life to of their unforgiving sire into a lonely adulthood to acquaint us with a universe (for those of bio- duration. Torchlit ballads like “The Man I Love” the enterprise bequeathed him, and that he racked by frustration barely concealed beneath graphical bent) replicating that of the author. and “My Buddy” heighten the wistful melancholy hopes to pass on to his offspring someday. deceptive torpor. The Edwardian age wasn’t all Downton Abbey of the moment. In his obsession with bettering the fortunes Rebellion is inevitable. Big sister Janet and and Mary Poppins, you know. Turn to page 13 WINDY CITY TIMES Dec. 25, 2019 13 REVIEW from page 12 THEATER REVIEW The spartan quarters in the Berger Park Coach The Light in Solea Pfeiffer House, far from detracting from the play’s set- and Renée ting, actually enhance the ambience. (For in- the Piazza Fleming in The stance, a comfy chair flanked by decorated trees Playwright: Book by Craig Lucas; music/lyrics Light in the at stage-side offers a cozy backdrop for bravely by Adam Guettel Piazza. cheerful photographs.) Playgoers preferring snark At: Lyric Opera, 20 N. Wacker Dr. (a Scenario Photo by to sentiment are warned that director Jason Two production) Liz Lauren Paul Smith never permits cutesy offstage sound- Tickets: https://lyricopera.org effects to steal focus, and that, yes, a 48-star Price: $35-219 flag will be saluted with a chorus of “America the Runs through: Dec. 29 Beautiful” but those willing to imagine an age before television and Skype set us right down BY KAREN TOPHAM shows every minute of her 26 years, and when unknowingly inherit the role of Clara’s caretaker. amid the shrapnel will enjoy this reminder of how she has a chance meeting with a sweet young But a large part of Margaret’s problem stems from our country once kept the fires burning through a It would be worth seeing The Light in the Piazza Florentine named Fabrizio (Rob Houchen), sparks her own failing marriage and her desperate need dark and seemingly endless winter. at Lyric Opera just to hear Renee Fleming sing. she doesn’t even recognize fly everywhere. to hold on to the one constant in her life, her However, the new production (actually put Fleming’s and Pfeiffer’s voices blend beauti- daughter. Fleming walks this line carefully, add-

c on by Scenario Two, a new company) offers so fully, soaring above the complex, textured or- ing layers of depth to her character, visible es- much more that this revival of the Craig Lucas chestrations in the opening song and drawing us pecially when she tries several times to explain and Adam Guettel musical is one of the finest in. Each of them also has lovely solo moments, Clara to Fabrizio’s father (Alex Jennings, lending CRITICS’PICKS shows of the year. From the excellence of the cast such as Fleming’s haunting “Dividing Day” and an easy-natured gravitas to the role). The Winter Wolf, Otherworld Theater, through to the 30-piece orchestra conducted by Kimberly Pfeiffer’s “The Light in the Piazza. But the show Whether you are unfamiliar with The Light in Dec. 29—Death lurks in winter’s cold and dark- Grigsby to the design team that helped to shape wouldn’t work if the young lovers did not fit the Piazza, as I was, or have been a fan since its ness, but our brave young heroine drives the wolf this show for the Lyric’s space, every element of together just as well, and Houchen’s rich tenor 2004 workshopping at the Goodman, I am confi- from the door in Joseph Zettelmaier’s 70-minute this production comes together to make it a joy- works perfectly with Pfeiffer’s lovely soprano to dent that you will enjoy this version. The show holiday fantasy, back for Year Two. MSB ous theatrical and musical experience. create the impression of two innocent people (perfect for the Lyric because it is a sort of hybrid Rutherford and Son, Timeline Theatre, through Director Daniel Evans’ cast couldn’t be stronger. falling in love. They fit so well together both vo- between opera and musical) features themes fa- Jan 12—Githa Sowerby’s 1912 hit remains rivet- Fleming stars as Margaret Johnson, a Winston- cally and visually that it’s impossible not to root miliar to any parent who both loves and worries ing drama in 2019, portraying a wealthy English Salem mother on a tour of Italy with her 26-year- for them to succeed, though we know that Mar- about their children...which is pretty much all of industrial family (perhaps her own) crushed by an old daughter, Clara (Solea Pfeiffer), a lovely garet has not revealed the truth about Clara to us. It’s only playing for a very limited run in the oppressive, ethically bankrupt patriarch. MSB young woman whose mental and emotional abili- Fabrizio and his family. midst of the hectic holiday season, but it is well —By Mary Shen Barnidge ties were adversely affected by an accident when As to that, Fleming’s Margaret clearly loves her worth the trip downtown for this glorious produc- she was young. However, Clara might be “younger daughter and wishes to protect her from possible tion. than her age,” as Margaret says, but her libido harm as well as protecting the family who would

Announcing Auditions

Non-Union Auditions January 4 from 12 to 4 p.m. January 5 from 12 to 4 p.m. For Information and Appointments: mercurytheaterchicago.com/casting

Visit mercurytheaterchicago.com or call (773) 325-1700 14 Dec. 25, 2019 WINDY CITY TIMES fresh dialogue was tied to the here-and-now of a ed the audience's emotional investment. Lovely Mal Blasingame with the cast of 20/20. diverse Chicago. Scott C. Morgan physical production but a rare miss by The House. Photo by Michael Brosilow —Ms. Blakk for President, Steppenwolf: The Jonathan Abarbanel past was the present in this free-flowing rally/ —Red Rex, Steep Theatre: Ike Holter’s world drama about Chicago drag queen Joan Jett Blakk’s premiere was a powerfully acted ruse. Moments scrappy 1992 presidential campaign. Tarell Alvin before intermission, Holter wrenched the play McCraney and Tina Landau's co-production was a from a comedy about Off-Loop Theater to a drama scatter-shot affair, but a roaring voice for nearly about cultural appropriation. His somewhat naive forgotten LGBTQ history. Morgan attack on Off-Loop Theater socio-economics (vs. —The First Deep Breath, Victory Gardens: Fea- artists' personal foibles) bit the hand that fed turing galvanic performances from a hugely tal- him. Abarbanel ented cast, Lee Edward Colston II’s play uses the —Ada and the Engine, Artistic Home: Ada By- lives of a single Black family to tell a bitter but ron Lovelace invented the computer in 1843, but often simply hilarious story of the ways in which playwright Lauren Gunderson fell into the sexist secrets, lies, religion, and sexuality can easily trap of reducing Lovelace’s accomplishments to THEATER unravel the bonds holding us together. Karen pursuit of male admiration. A final-scene tone Topham shift suggesting vindication was too late and not —Midsummer (A Play With Songs), Green- enough. Mary Shen Barnidge The best and worst of house Theater Center and Proxy Theatre: David —Mother of the Maid, Northlight Theatre: If Grieg’s inventive, chaotic play shifted time and we’re asked to view the lofty career of Jeanne viewpoint in a wildly imaginative production; a D'Arc through the eyes of her Mommy, then Mrs. Chicago theater in 2019 hilarious paean to the idea that change always is Arc also must be worth our attention; but author possible, no matter how hopeless, dull or repeti- Jane Anderson grew quickly bored with the drab COMPILED AND EDITED reotype. Barnidge tive our lives might seem. Topham housewife she created and so did we. Barnidge BY JONATHAN ABARBANEL —The Total Bent, Haven Theatre with About —I Know My Own Heart, Pride Films and Plays: —Act(s) of God, Lookingglass Theatre: Kareem Face Theatre; Stew's The Total Bent showcased The year’s steamiest history play offered a hot Bandealy’s first play might have spiraled into a The last 12 months have been celebrated city director Lili-Anne Brown’s talent for emotional box of sexual tension vs. strict moral code via satisfying free-for-all about one family’s spiritual wide as Chicago Theatre Year and it’s been a truth and stunning acting. As a father and son Anne Lister, 1800s agent of social & sexual chaos crisis, but the script obscured the purpose with whopper of a time, especially September through dueling through gospel music during the Civil (played by Vahishta Vafadari), thanks to author too many elements. Director Heidi Stillman’s ef- December when no fewer than 60 shows opened Rights era, Robert Cornelius and Gilbert Dom- Emma Donoghue and director Elizabeth Swanson. fort to unite all the tones didn;t find a through- each month. When final numbers are crunched, ally smacked you in the heart. Sarah Katherine Sean Margaret Wagner line. Sarah Katherine Bowden it won’t be surprising if there were 850 or 900 Bowden —SIX, Chicago Shakespeare Theater: This —Sweet Texas Reckoning, Artemisia Theatre: productions during the calendar year and over 3 —20/20, About Face Youth Theatre Ensemble; Broadway bound British import blew the roof off This Texas showdown between liberal and con- million tickets sold. A joyful exploration of identity set during 1980s Navy Pier by portraying Henry VIII’s six wives as servative family members didn’t pack a punch. Theater critics, however, are not so impressed ball culture. From dance breaks to Lizzo’s “Good a pop group. Directors Jamie Armitage and Lucy Author Traci Godfrey reached facile conclusions, by big numbers. Their job is to assess individual As Hell” to confessionals drawn from years of Moss and six astounding vocalists made you for- and Julie Proudfoot’s stagey (although honest) productions and declare hits and misses. For this Youth Ensemble rehearsals, this company showed get theater and scream like you’re at a Spice Girls direction hampered a complex experience. The Windy City Times Year in Review, our most fre- how claiming one’s self should be a celebration concert. Wagner dialogue failed hard working actors Anita Kavuu quent reviewers have picked two shows each that as much as a movement. Bowden Ng'ang'a and Scottie Caldwell. Bowden were successes (in their opinions) and two that —Lottery Day, Goodman Theatre: Playwright Misses (near, far or by a country mile) —Cruel Intentions: The '90s Musical, Broad- didn't make the grade. Remember that all critics Ike Holter capped his ambitious “Rightlynd Saga” —Pinocchio, House Theatre of Chicago: Too way Playhouse: This tonally confused jukebox are right, even when they disagree! of seven plays with a riotous party. Many charac- much of the horrifically dark original was sacri- musical of the 1999 film felt like SNL sketches ters from previous dramas returned to compete ficed for too much modern sensibility . . . and overstaying their welcome. The '90s pop hits were Successes (alphabetized by critics’ last names) for a cash prize tied to a terrible tragedy. The Pinocchio never became a real boy, which blunt- shoehorned awkwardly into this tale (inspired by —The Delicate Tears of the Waning Moon, Dangerous Liaisons) of preppy school kids playing Water People Theatre: Part of the Third Chicago manipulative sexual games. Scott C. Morgan International Latino Theater Festival, this poetic —Elizabeth Rex, Oak Park Festival Theatre: two-character play eased its way from a tender Timothy Findley's overly analytic, historically tale of a woman recovering from a horrific acci- inaccurate 2001 drama proved tedious for out- dent to a horrifying tale of attempted assassina- door summertime revival. It stretched credibil- tion and suppression of truth by ruthless forces. ity imagining Queen Elizabeth I slumming with Rebeca Aleman starred (with Ramon Camin) and Shakespeare and his actors, while trying to be also wrote the work. Jonathan Abarbanel profound about love, power and gender roles. —The Great Leap, Steppenwolf Theatre Com- Morgan pany: Playwright Lauren Yee's creation myth —Desire in a Tinier House, Pride Films and about the Tank Man of Tiananmen Square was Plays: Ryan Oliveira’s script purports to concern filled with verve, passion, politics, comedy and the passion of two gay men in an increasingly basketball action, and featured a break-out per- hostile world, but mostly it’s a framework for formance by Chicago actor Glenn Obrero as a 5'5" what a lobby sign called “stimulated” sex before Chinese-American basketball wiz. What fun! Abar- it bizarrely shifts gears in Act II. Karen Topham banel —Kiss, Haven Theatre: In Guillermo Calderón’s —Herland, Redtwist Theatre: Too many play- complicated script, points are made and remade; wrights treat the topic of advanced age as a prob- monologues and scenes feel forced and artificial, lem for the caretakers of those afflicted with it, even delivered by earnest actors. It’s sincere and but Grace McLeod allowed her three elderly ladies thoughtful, but the intentionally self-interrup- to tell us what THEY wanted and refuse to be tive format confuses the audience when it most bossed by meddling kinfolk. Mary Shen Barnidge needs emotional engagement. Topham —Kentucky, Gift Theatre; Leah Nanako Win- —Ruse of Medusa, Facility Theatre: Author kler’s comedy took a candid look at the values of Erik Satie and director Dado accomplished their urban snobs, country crackers, immigrant Asians, goal of creating a nonsensical landscape of ab- fundie African-American Christians and talking Left: Tarell Alvin McCraney in Ms. Blakk for President. Right: James Seol in The Great Leap. cats without ever stooping to mean-spirited ste- Photos by Michael Brosilow Turn to page 19 WINDY CITY TIMES Dec. 25, 2019 15 in a production of Once on This Island. Daniel Kyri. “It was the backstage life that enthralled me Photo courtesy of Kyri the most,” he said. “I got to watch these older actors trying to be backstage, do quick changes, have conversations in the wings, and then watch them ‘put on’ their character and go back onto the stage. There was something witnessing the act of transformation that I thought was so magi- cal.” Kyri and writing partner Bea Cordelia last year unveiled a web series, The T, about the relation- ship between a white trans woman and Black queer man in Chicago. The pair co-wrote, -pro- duced, -directed, and-starred in the series. They hope to eventually get more episodes off the ground. “Bea and I have a couple of prospects,” Kyri said. “We will do a second season if the money is there. Luckily enough, we have been in talks Queer actor with a couple of people with whom that might be a probability. We have dreams and goals in our work, especially as it pertains to The T. Daniel Kyri Kyri considers himself lucky to have grown up in Chicago, which he called “a city at the fore- front of a lot of really innovative storytelling, on Chicago, especially in the theater community,” where he has been able to both work and be openly queer. Chicago, he added, “helped me to find my voice.” coming out on TV “I found the stories that I care about telling,” Kyri explained. “Those involve the radical rep- resentations of all human beings as they exist. BY MATT SIMONETTE When Kyri learned that his character, Darren Rit- having the fan base be so open and welcoming, I’m not prettying up, or covering up, or forcing a ter, would be coming out in an episode this past and supportive of the character.” character, person, or story to fit into a predeter- For Chicago-born actor Daniel Kyri, who identifies fall, “It felt very personal in some pretty unex- Kyri, a South Side native, became interested in mined mold. I frankly think that’s bullshit, and I as queer, working on the NBC drama Chicago Fire pected ways.” When he filmed the scenes in ques- acting at age 10 thanks to his uncle, a performer want to be engaged in the work of dismantling has been both “incredible” and “educational.” tion, he added, “My own coming out experience and theater professional, who got him involved that.” This series, filmed in Chicago, was Kyri’s first ended up ‘covering’ those moments for Ritter.” time working in television. He has long been a He admitted that, when first seeing the scene fixture of the city’s theater scene. on the printed page, “I was honestly a little ner- “My character had a three-episode arc, and vous. There is this idea, that is more popular with then they decided to keep me on,” he recalled. younger folks, about ‘not owing’ you coming out LEARN MODERN “It’s opened up a whole new side of Chicago for story to anyone. Reading it on the page I began me, different from the one that I had previously to understand that testament a little more deep- experienced. Growing up and living in the city, ly. In a lot of ways it is very personal, and in the SQUARE DANCING and working in the city as an actor are two total- [scene] he is coming out to a person he respects, ly unique and separate, but ultimately cohesive who holds a certain amount of power in terms of In Just 30 Days! experiences. I just feel like the city of Chicago what we see as acceptance.” is unfolding in different ways for me, and it’s in- The more he contemplated the scene, Kyri de- Chi-Town Squares Presents credibly educational and rewarding.” termined “more ideas about how to handle the Kyri spoke of being surprised by the collabora- moment and just make it as nuanced and fully tive nature of the television industry, noting, formed as possible. It ended up being like an Mainstream Express 2020! “There are so many crew members that put to- easy ‘non-event’ that just melts your heart when gether a single episode. learning what they do you see it.” and how they impact how to tell a story is invalu- The response to Darren’s coming out has been A 30-Day Teaching Program from February 8th to March 8th able information.” positive, he added. “For our show to have the Open to folks with no square dance experience! He added that the cast and crew has been “like demographic that it does, which is largely blue- a family. … I’ve been accepted and loved here.” collar and working-class, I very much enjoyed Schedule of Events Lessons: Saturdays 9:00am – 4:00pm: February 8, 15, March 7, 2020 Dances: Thursdays 7:30 – 9:30pm: February 13, 20, 27, March 5, 2020 Graduation Dance: Sunday 2:00pm – 4:30pm: March 8, 2020 Hayes. The event will take place at The Palmer House Hilton, 17 E. Monroe St., at noon. All Events Take Place At; Sean Hayes at Hayes is best known for his role as Jack Mc- Ebenezer Lutheran Church Community Center Feb. 5 Goodman Farland on the NBC sitcom Will & Grace, for 1650 W. Foster Ave. which he won a Primetime Emmy Award and event four SAG Awards, along with six Golden Globe Goodman Theatre, now in its 95th season, nominations. Only $150.00 for all lessons & dances listed above will host the “Legacy & Promise” Education and Tickets start at $250 each; call 312-443-3811 Engagement Luncheon Wed., Feb. 5, featuring ext. 220. Proceeds benefit Education and En- For more information visit our website www.ChiTownSquares.org Emmy-winning and Tony-nominated actor Sean gagement at the Goodman. 16 Dec. 25, 2019 WINDY CITY TIMES migrants who were hired to build the transconti- The Gay Marriage Generation, by Peter Hart- nental railroad. Part personal (Chang introduces Brinson, is the book to give. It takes a look at readers to some of the men, specifically) and part how same-sex marriage became law across the Season's readings: danger-adventure, it’s a story you’ll love reading. country, and how it changed the way America For the person who grew up during the 1950s, looks at gay men and lesbians. The gay gift A Good American Family, by David Maraniss, will recipient might also like Out of the Shadows: Books to choose be a great gift to unwrap. It’s the story of the Reimagining Gay Men’s Lives, by Walt Odets, in BY TERRI SCHLICHENMEYER “Red Scare” of the 1950s, how one family was un- that same wrapped gift. fairly caught up in it, and how they got through So, it’s a wrap. it all. Everything’s under paper and under the tree. You’re done with all your shopping, except for African-American studies one person. Or two. Maybe four. For the thinker on your gift list, We Can’t So what do you get for that hard-to-buy-for Breathe, by Jabari Asim, might be the perfect person who never likes anything? Well, as they thing to give. In essays that provoke thought say, a book is a present they’ll open again and and invite discussion, Asim tackles Black culture, again, so why not head to your local bookstore Black families, the necessity of Black writers, and for these great gifts: how Black America has its own narrative to claim from history. Wrap it up with this book for the Biography/autobiography/memoir poetry lover, My Eternity in Time, by Carol Coles. For the fiercest of fierce women on your gift It’s filled with verse on love, life, and death, and list, look for Passionate Spirit: The Life of Alma it offers plenty of food for thought. Mahler, by Cate Haste. It’s the story of Mahler, The reader who works to understand racial is- wife of the artist, who was also the first woman sues will want to see When I Was White, by to write an opera at a time when women were Sarah Valentine, beneath the tree this year. It’s supposed to be shadows of their husbands. It’s the true story of a little white girl who grows one of those little-know stories you should know. up to be a woman who learns that her father The giftee who needs a boost of confidence will was a Black man. Complicated, yes. Fascinating? love unwrapping More Than Enough, by Elaine That, too. Also look for Self-Portrait in Black Welteroth. It’s the story of the author’s realiza- and White, by Thomas Chatterton Williams—the tion that she really WAS everything she needed story of an entire family’s reckoning with race. to be and if that’s a great lesson to take into the Also take a look at Black Indian: A Memoir, by new year… them and below them. Hint: giftees who travel Shonda Buchanan, a story of a biracial woman They say that this country's royalty sprang from will enjoy it, too. who embraces both her Native American and her the New England area and if your gift recipient The person who longs for a gentler time when African-American roots. The person on your list who enjoys reading is a fan or follower, then wrap up The Kennedy women dressed for dinner will love What Would The teenager on your list who loves history short stories will love Every True Pleasure: LG- Heirs, by J. Randy Taraborrelli. This big book is , by Cecelia Tichi. It’s a book will love Emancipated: My Family’s Fight for BTQ Tales of North Carolina, edited by Wilton all about the JFK kids and their generation, as Mrs. Astor Do? about manners and social expectations in the Freedom, by Cheryl Wills. It’s the personal story Barnhardt. It’s absolutely filled with tales from well as their cousins. Gilded Age, and how people were supposed to be- of Wills’ father, and her great-great-great grand- the South and from the heart. For the person who’s spent time this year as have. It’s also about the woman who set the tone father, who was a Tennessee slave who fought For the parent of someone who’s come out this caregiver to a parent, How to Forget, by Kate for it all, the lovely and suffers-no-fools-gladly in the Civil War. Included is information so your year, consider giving Embracing the Journey, by Mulgrew, is the book to wrap. It’s the story of Caroline Astor. Wrap it up with young giftee can start his or her own family tree. Greg and Lynn McDonald, with Beth Jusino, fore- caring and loss, and coming to terms with a past Women Warriors: , by Pamela D. Toler. Mrs. Wrap it up with I Missed the Bus, But I Arrived word by Greg McDonald Jr. It’s a guide, really, for that one may or may not know until secrets are An Unexpected History Astor would approve. on Time, by Willis S. Drake—a memoir by a Re- Christian parents who learn that their children no longer kept… Dad or Grandpa is always hard to buy for, right? naissance man and his dreams of doing it all. are LGBT, and how it fits with your spiritual be- The Anglophile on your gift list will love having Wrong: There’s The Darkest Year: The American liefs. Our Rainbow Queen, by Sali Hughes, under the , by William K. Klinga- LGBTQ interest The movie buff on your list will love reading tree. It’s a celebration of Queen Elizabeth’s color- Home Front 1941-1942 man and it’s available now. This book reminds For the person who loves someone who doesn’t Hollywood Chinese: The Chinese in American ful style and the splashy fashions she favors. readers about how we “pulled together and won” identify strictly as male-female will appreciate Feature Films, by writer Arthur Dong, whose For the lover of music, feminism, and fierce during World War II, and he’ll love it. Don’t dis- unwrapping Robyn Ryle's She He They Me this work focuses on Asia America and anti-gay preju- women, Ani Di Franco's No Walls and the Recur- count Mom or Grandma; it’s a book she’ll enjoy, year. It’s a book that acts a bit like those old dice. This beautifully illustrated book tells the ring Dream will make a perfect gift. It’s the story too. Wrap it up with , by Chris Ed- “choose-your-own-adventure” as it examines and story of Chinese and Chinese American actors of Di Franco’s first 30 years on Earth as well as her No Surrender monds and Douglas Century. It’s a story of Ed- explains gender, its definitions, and the way it’s from the first films shot in Chinatown, to modern activism, life and music. monds’ father, his brave actions during World War been perceived historically. Hint: This is fun, and times and contemporary film professionals. How If there’s a Hollywood watcher on your gift list II, and how he impacted many people for many it’s also a book for someone who’s questioning. can you go wrong? this year, then wrap up Seduction: Sex, Lies and generations. If your gift recipient is exploring the ideas and Lastly, for the person who is searching for new Stardom in Howard Hughes’s Hollywood, by Anyone who’s fascinated with military history limits of gender, you can’t go wrong by wrapping meaning in life, wrap up My Buddha is Pink: Karina Longworth. It’s the story of a very rich from World War I through Vietnam will want to up Nonbinary: Memoirs of Gender and Iden- Buddhism for the Modern Homosexual, by man, the women who wanted him (or his money, add , by Kara Dixon Vuic, tity, edited by Micah Rajunov and Scott Duane. Richard Harrold. It’s a book of essays being a gay or both) and the women who got what they want- The Girls Next Door to their bookshelves. This tale of a little-known This is a book filled with tales of those who’ve Buddhist and reconciling old beliefs with a new ed—much to their regret. bit of history explains why “respectable young examined (or are examining) questions of gender, way of mindfulness and fulfillment in a new life- Historians and connoisseurs alike will love women” and Hollywood starlets volunteered to sexuality, age, and race. style. reading The Bourbon King, by Bob Batchelor. go overseas so that men at war could enjoy rec- For the child with two Mommies or two Daddies, Season's readings! It’s the story of George Remus, his crimes, and reation and a bit of home in a foreign country. and for the kids in that child’s preschool session, his totally illegal prohibition-era empire. For more military history to make your history The GayBCs, by M.L. Webb, will make a great buff smile, look for Tom Cotton's Sacred Duty—a class gift. It’s the A-B-Cs, but with terms familiar History peek inside the workings of Arlington National to the LGBTQ community and their families, so The historian who’s likewise fascinated with ar- Cemetery. it’s for them, too. Or it might make a great gift chitecture will probably never get a book they’ll Here’s a unique gift for the railroad buff or his- for the adult who still possesses the wonder of a love more than Cities: The First 6,000 Years, by torian: , by Gordon H. child. Or for an adult, just because. Monica L. Smith. This book takes your reader on a Ghosts of Gold Mountain Chang. It’s the true account of the Chinese im- For the newlywed (or the about-to-be-wed), @windycitytimes down-the-road trip into cities and villages, above WINDY CITY TIMES Dec. 25, 2019 17 identity become secondary to who we really are.” Cristy Pratt. Recently, Pratt debuted some of her latest de- Photo courtesy of Pratt signs during Chicago Fashion Week’s Trans and Media show, a fashion show segment dedicated to the transgender community. Pratt said her pieces worked well on the runway, adding it was great to see transgender models wearing her pieces. “I hope that my piece provides a chance for people to be themselves. I believe that sexual persuasion is not a continuum. I don’t think any- body is totally straight. Whether people act on fantasies or go out and create relationships, we are all the same thing,” said Pratt. Although Pratt, a single mom of two, does not identify as a member of the LGBTQ community, she said she will always be open to loving who you are. “When we have the opportunity to love more authentically, we become more loving in the world and less defensive of who we are,” said Pratt. In addition to inclusivity, a huge part of Pratt’s message is that although someone may not have the resources, or the training they can still follow their dreams. Like many, she experienced strug- gles as she grew her business. FASHION “It’s a beautiful journey. I didn’t start with Cristy Pratt's all-purpose dress. any capital investment, I just worked hard,” said Photo courtesy of Pratt Pratt. “My goal is that hopefully we realize it isn’t what we are but who we are. Gender and sexuality Cristy Pratt: Pratt is a strong believer of embracing who you identity become secondary to who we really are. aree and hoping that one day the world realizes If we can’t get pass these labels, and even we why that is so important—not just in fashion but identify, we can’t move a place to where it’s love On a mission throughout all facets of life. and acceptance.” “My goal is that hopefully we realize it isn’t To shop Morph Clothing, visit MorphClothing. to display what we are but who we are. Gender and sexuality com. inclusivity

BY VEE L. HARRISON Pratt wore what is now known as her “One Dress for All” piece. It is a dress that fits all body sizes Chicago fashion designer Cristy Pratt is bringing and can be worn 60 different ways. The dress inclusivity to fashion, unapologetically. has been featured on Fox 32 and several fashion Her clothing line, Morph Clothing, is dedicated shows in major cities, including Chicago and Mi- to representing pieces that include all ethnici- ami. Morph Clothing was also featured as part of ties, genders, ages and body sizes. This element the BET Awards Exclusive Gifting lounge this year of inclusivity is important to her brand, and, from and the MTV VMS Red Carpet. what she said, “important for the entire world.” Pratt’s clothing line took off after the debut of Who’d knew that a night out with the ladies her “One Dress for All” concept. The idea is that would be the start of a dress that has swept the one dress can be worn several ways really reso- entire fashion industry? Pratt sure had no idea, nated in the industry. More importantly, the idea but now she’s in the fashion limelight, and it’s that Pratt was considering all body types, any all because she is seeking to make fashion more age, every curve on anyone regardless of culture inclusive. or gender, is what made her design so special. “I am not a trained fashion designer. I did not The dress became popular and went viral. Over go to school for fashion,” admitted Pratt. Her the last few months, she said she’s been selling grandmother left her a sewing machine when she to places and people she didn’t even know ex- was just a young girl. She began her business in isted. a closet space that she transformed into a small “I design my pieces to look good on any body office. size. I wanted to create a piece that whatever That’s how the hobby began. Even without you love about your body, you show it off. What- much experience, Pratt became determined to ever you hate, you can hide, too,” said Pratt. start her own fashion line. “The world is ready for change. People are turning While out with her best girlfriends one night, more self-accepting.” 18 Dec. 25, 2019 WINDY CITY TIMES yes!’ [I] come to find out that the music editor for Work in Progress, Ethan Stoller, and I had met at a mutual friend’s showcase in L.A. a couple Sami Grisafe: years back. Then, I discovered Abby McEnany was the co-creator and star and it just felt like all the stars were aligned.” Immersed in L.A., but Grisafe added, “The whole process was truly amazing. Every person I interacted with on this project was so kind and professional. From the keeping Chicago ties first email to the wrap, everyone treated each BY ROSS FORMAN other with patience and respect. Having worked in entertainment for over a decade, I can tell you Sami Grisafe got some high-profile exposure for how rare and beautiful it is for a project and a the first single to be released from her upcoming message to take precedence over ego.” album, Manifest. Grisafe admitted that when she saw the pilot The former Chicago Force star quarterback who of Work in Progress, she was filled with pride and has transitioned into a Los Angeles-based singer/ joy. “I met Abby several years ago, while I was Dylan Rice. songwriter/actor, Grisafe played the acoustic ver- bartending at The Closet and she was performing Photo courtesy of Rice sion of her single “Key of Us” on episode two of at Second City,” Grisafe said. “She was always so the Showtime original series Work In Progress on kind and polite and just a wonderful person to Sunday, Dec. 15. be around. I couldn’t help but smile when she New Dylan Rice “Key of Us” is a modern-day love duet that has walked in the door. been described as a mix of pop, alt-folk and a album out "Seeing Abby and her talent on the screen, After more than two years, and with the hint of country in a relatable and single tune. telling a story that hasn’t been told, diving into “This track has a lot of Shawn Mendes elements backing of more than fundraiser campaign characters and stories that get little screen time, donors, out musician Dylan Rice's third solo with the percussive acoustic guitar and beats. with Chicago as the backdrop, sent me over the It’ll definitely make you move and sing-a-long,” album, Fits and Fevers, has been released. moon. And, to be a part of a production that Lilly Recorded by engineer/co-producer Adam Grisafe said. Wachowski and Tim Mason are a part of is abso- The song features Linsea Waugh, a Chicago- Munoz at Fantasy Studios in Berkeley, Cali- lutely incredible. The show is funny, dark, pro- fornia, Fits and Fevers showcases musicians based musician and long-time collaborator and vocative [and] enlightening. It’s all of the things friend of Grisafe. “Key of Us” is produced by KOIL such as guitarist James DePrato (Chuck that I crave in great pieces of art and entertain- Prophet), keyboardist Julie Wolf (Ani Difran- PreAmple and Eren Cannata, the two who gave ment. I’m so honored to be a part of this show, Grisafe’s acoustic love song a pop makeover. The co; Bruce Cockburn), singer Omega Rae even for just one scene, in one episode.” (Sammy Hagar), bassist Andrew Lion (Nega- single was released through Grisafe’s record com- Sami Grisafe. Grisafe, born and raised in Southern California, tive Press Project), drummer Javier Torres pany which she co-founded with Kathy Kuras, Photo from Grisafe moved to Chicago at 18. “I consider Chicago the Vanguard Muse. and longtime collaborator guitarist Dave place that raised the adult in me,” she said. “I Mendez. “The song was inspired by a late night/early other part since its inception who has always came out as a lesbian in Chicago. My professional morning in Chicago with friends and a new love been my partner in crime musically and the rea- The album can be heard on major digital football career with the Chicago Force took place services, including Spotify, Apple Music and interest,” Grisafe said. “We went out to the bars son I had the confidence to pursue a career in in Chicago. I started music career and co-founded in Andersonville, then back to our friend’s condo. music. I couldn’t think of a better, more talented iTunes, Amazon, Pandora, Google Play Music my record label, Vanguard Muse, in Chicago. and CDBaby. It was one of those epic nights you never forget: person to sing this duet with me. We’ve been “Boystown, The Closet, the Chicago Force and acoustic guitar sing-a-longs, drinking anything performing ‘Key of Us’ acoustically together for Before moving to San Francisco, Rice honed my music family were the support systems that his musical chops in Chicago, fronting differ- we could find from Jameson to flat champagne, 6-plus years and it was really cool to be able to got me through my 20s. Watching a series that heart-to-hearts and infatuation with a new love realize all those years of performing it through ent rock and folk acts in the city’s club and takes place in similar social circles, in my second festival scene. interest until the night turned to dawn and the a live into a recording. I cannot speak highly home, fills me [with] nostalgia and pride.” enough about Linsea’s presence on this song. She On Dec. 15, Grisafe was in Los Angeles serving is truly a remarkable talent.” as the emcee for a private concert series that she Grisafe, 34, performed the song on Showtime co-founded called SunSeshLA (http://sunsesh. Red Stars' Ertz with Chicago-based singer-songwriter, Xoe Wise. la). After that show, she went to a watch party named Player of “Key of Us” is the only duet on the new al- for Work. bum—and the album is the soundtrack to the “When I got the call from Ethan Stoller that the Year feature documentary film about women’s tackle ‘Key of Us’ made the show, I was excited and in- U.S. women's national team and Chicago football, Open Field, set to release in 2020. credibly grateful. Being able to perform my song Red Stars midfielder Julie Ertz has been vot- The song is available as a single on all stream- with Xoe Wise and sing her song, ‘Careful’ with ed the 2019 U.S. Soccer Female Player of the ing platforms and online stores. her, on such a sincerely groundbreaking series, is Year. Grisafe said, “'Key of Us' is about falling for an honor,” Grisafe said. This is the second time in her career Ertz has someone and the romanticism and intimacy of Grisafe’s segment for Work was filmed in Up- won the award. the act of singing together without caring so town. In 2019, Ertz started 22 games for the U.S. much about the ‘musical key’ you’re singing in." Grisafe said she gets back to Chicago about four team—the most on the squad—and her “I met Xoe Wise through [former] Chicago Force times annually. When asked what she misses most 1,755 minutes played were third-most on teammate Brandy Hatcher. She would come and about Chicago, she said it's mainly the people. the team. She was a key member of the U.S. play music at The Closet during my shifts. I al- “I miss my best friend, my Force family [and] women's national team’s World Cup-winning ways loved Xoe’s songwriting, voice, and excep- my buddies from Boystown,” she said. “Chicago squad, playing six of the seven matches. Ertz tional kindness. We collaborated on a few shows has so many amazing communities that I was scored her first career World Cup goal against over the years in Chicago and continued to con- lucky enough to be a part of, including the LG- Chile in a group stage game. nect through social media once I moved to Los Regarding the Red Stars, Ertz played every Grisafe when she was with the Chicago Force. BTQ community. I miss that connection and the Angeles. minute in her 14 starts n as team captain. Photo courtesy of the Force fantastic humans who make up Chicago.” “I was curious when I saw I had a missed call Grisafe’s music also is featured in the movie The U.S. Soccer Female Player of the Year has tension turned into a nine-month-long relation- from her one morning in LA. When I called her and soundtrack for Season of Love, a lighthearted been awarded since 1985, when midfielder ship. back, Xoe asked if I might be interested in sing- queer women’s holiday romantic comedy, which Sharon Remer earned the first Female Athlete “It was the support of my best friend, Linsea ing in a scene with her for this new Showtime se- was just released by Tello Films. of the Year honor. Waugh, who I had always had in mind for the ries, Work in Progress. I (immediately) said, ‘Hell WINDY CITY TIMES Dec. 25, 2019 19 test for $50 2Bears gift card, plus a slew of other prizes. $7 big draft beers, $3 house shots, no cover. 5025 N. Clark St. Jackhammer: Chicago's Fetish HQ NYE Party 2019 Music from DJ Jerry. $5 cover after 10, The Hole opens at 10. Champagne toast at midnight. 6406 N. Clark St. Hamburger Mary's/Mary's Attic: Tea in A-ville NEW Big Gay NYE 2020 Teaming up with the team with their popular Sunday Tea dance, music by DJ Marc 'Moose' Moder. Entertaint-ment by Ta- YEAR’S sha Salad. Party on two floors. $5 advance tick- ets; $10 at the door. 5400 N. Clark St. Touche: Black & Blue NYE Complimentary buf- PICKS fet at 9. Midnight champagne toast, then the blackout begins. Games, prizes, party favor and 2020 more. $10 tickets available at the bar. 6412 N. Tuesday, Dec. 31, 2019 Clark St. Lips Chicago: NYE Glitz & Glam Ball Dinner, Sidetrack's New Year's Eve $30 advance tickets dancing and live drag shows. Three-course prix available. Light bites from J&L Catering. Chi- fixe dinner. $45 early/$85 late seating. ABC- cago drag showcase. Champagne at midnight. 7 live broadcast of balloon drop at midnight. A benefit for the Legacy Project. 3349 N. Hal- 2229 S. Michigan Ave., 312-815-2662, www. sted St. lipsusa.com Berlin: Chicago Drag Superstars on New Year's Wednesday, Jan. 1, 2020 Dida Ritz (Star off Rupaul's Drag Race), Marga- Sidetrack: New Year's Day One-One-Onesie Par- ret Y Ya (Mexico City, MX) (Star of La Mas Dra- ty Doors open at 1 p.m. Fun and games all day ga), Tenderoni. Hosted by T Rex. DJ Greg Haus. in your PJs. Followed by monthly Men's Room No cover before 10 p.m. $15 After 10 p.m. Drag Wednesday party with Sidetrack's own Dixie Show at 11 p.m. Countdown with the Queens at Lynn Cartwright. 3349 N. Halsted St. midnite. Party til 4 a.m. 954 W. Belmont Ave. Meeting House Tavern/The Sofo Tap Official The Sofo Tap No cover, no attitude, all fun! waiting rooms for Dispensary 33. Both locations Countdown to 2020 begins at 9 p.m. with video open at 9 a.m. Drink specials include $5 Sweet- from VJ Thomas. $4.25 Tito's, $3 Miller Lite water 420 Strain G13 IPAs. 4923 and 5025 N. drafts. 4923 N. Clark St. Clark St. Meeting House Tavern: Big Gay New Year's Eve Party With Sofonda Booze. Best Dressed Con-

BILLY MastersMasters will return in the next issue.

BEST/WORST from page 14 was half party, half journey of self exploration, the dignity of classic tragedy. and half showcase of stellar Chicago vocal and surd noise, insane ramblings, and pointless visual acting talent (I know that’s too many halves). Di- Extra Misses stimuli. Why ask why? Just put on a mandatory rectors Derek Van Barham and Elizabeth Swanson —August Rush, Paramount Theatre: The first bowler hat and enjoy/endure this exploration of made this singing, dancing extravaganza look world premiere musical staged at the award- absurdity. Sean Margaret Wagner downright easy. winning Aurora theater was an artistic misfire. —Waiting For Godot, Victory Gardens Theater: —Cambodian Rock Band, Victory Gardens: It Too many deliberate blanks were left in not only Why do theater creators keep returning to this isn’t often that you find a play that, while being the script for this screen-to-stage adaptation of chestnut? To find new meaning or fresh perspec- thoroughly entertaining, also opens your eyes to the 2007 film, but also in director John Doyle's tives? Director Dennis Zacek seemed content to something important that you never knew about production that came off as a re-conceptualized rehash Samuel Beckett’s bleak landscape with a before. Lauren Yee’s play is an amazing pastiche off-Broadway revival. majority white male cast, which seems without of rock concert, history play, mystery, and family —One for the Road, MPAACT: Steadily realistic relevance to Chicago today. Wagner drama that resonates with our modern era. and bound to solving social problems, One for the —Packing, About Face Theatre at Theater Wit: Road bites off more than it can chew. Director Extra Hits Playwright and actor Scott Bradley laid it all out Runako Jahl’s awkward staging did little to help —How I Learned To Drive, Raven Theatre: Pau- for his autobiographical one-man show recount- the actors connect with their environment and la Vogel’s script has not lost its power since its ing his tumultuous life as an Iowa-born gay man. the play’s stakes. Static and effortful, the actors late nineties run. Cody Estle’s revival sharply de- Horror mixed with humor as Bradley and direc- started at eleven and never let up. lineates Li’l Bit’s (Eliza Stoughton) perception of tor Chay Yew shared stories of disco, drugs, drag, —Proxy, Underscore Theatre: This musical from her relationship with predatory Uncle Peck (Mark bullying and seeking a sense of belonging. Alexander Sage Oyen, Austin Regan and Rachel Ulrich) and the reality. And the actors never lose —The First Deep Breath, Victory Gardens The- Franco derives its plot from a real 2014 murder sight of the dark vein of humor running through atre: The multigenerational saga recounting the attempt, but doesn’t cite its source material. piece. sorrow brought upon a family by guilty secrets Knowing there are real people, under the age of —Head Over Heels, Kokandy Productions: So has lost none of its power in a new century, and 18 who may not know they inspired this musical, joyful, spirited, and inclusive, this production Lee Edward Colston II’s epic drama achieved all makes it impossible to enjoy. 20 Dec. 25, 2019 WINDY CITY TIMES currently only on Saturdays, as the place is closed large buttermilk pancakes was like the warmth on Sundays.) of an old friend, while the oatmeal brûlée (with, Besides the food, there are some intriguing yes, a crispy top) was sinfully good. Ditto for the touches—including the centerpiece carousel bar. pastrami Reuben. the DISH Francois Frankie is only one of two restaurants However, other dishes warrant a return visit. Dining Guide in in the country with such a conversation-starter; For example, I didn’t try the roasted vegetable this one takes 66 minutes to make a complete shakshuka (baked farm eggs, roasted local WINDY CITY TIMES revolution. (I joked that I wish it could go faster, vegetables, gruyere cheese and tomato sofrito, but city ordinances ban that from happening.) with grilled sourdough), but I’m not likely to pass SAVOR Also, the bar features art with fictional character on it twice. There are also other offerings such as Francois Frankie, courtesy of Brittany Steiner. Belgian waffles, the steak sandwich a la Frankie Francois Frankie's Even the gender-neutral restrooms have a and many more. jazz brunch twist, with the letters “WC” (water closet, a By the way, yes, the jazz music is pretty cool. British term) on them. Why use a British term Various acts are slated to perform each Saturday, BY ANDREW DAVIS when the restaurant has a French-American vibe? so go there to hear some vibrant tunes—and have Sometimes, a spot’s success can depend on Who knows—but I quibble. some amazing food. Francois Frankie is certainly something as simple as location. The food is, in a word, heavenly. The avocado worth walking a couple extra blocks in the Loop. Francois Frankie (222 W. Randolph St.; toast (with poached eggs) was a bit light on the Note: Profiles/events are based on invitations FrancoisFrankie.com), even though it’s in the vegetable, but was delicious and the corned- arranged from restaurants and/or firms. Loop, is probably just a shade too many steps beef hash (with fried eggs and hollandaise) away from the theater district or from Michigan could make Scrooge smile. My personal favorite Avenue to draw tourists on weekends and was the challah French toast (with crispy crust), holidays. served with strawberries and whipped cream; I’ll This is a shame, because this spot has one of Oatmeal brulee at Francois Frankie's. definitely be getting that again soon. the best brunches I’ve had this year. (Brunch is Heather Talbert Photography Other items are enticing as well. A stack of PROFILE BY TONY PEREGRIN

BEHIND THE NAME “Edna D. Mascará— ::EDNAbecause MASCARÁ I’m a classy:: PERFORMERhousewife from OFEdina, THE Minnesota, WEEK dontcha know, and Mascara is a monthly drag show in San Francisco that helped me find my voice.” MY MUSE “Maria Bamford—her comedic style is just so silly and off the wall, and she does amazing voices. I giggle every time I watch one of her standup specials. I even created an award-winning talent number based off of her.” MOST PEOPLE DON’T KNOW THAT I ... “… have a Master’s degree in Public Health and work in HIV prevention at the Center on Halsted.” WHEN I NEED A PICK-ME-UP, I … “… love to drink the tears of sad, sad clowns ... or grab a coffee, whichever is easier.” GO-TO NUMBER TO SLAY A CROWD “I have a number that I call 'Lost Dick.' It’s a mix all about the favorite subject of many a man and woman: penises. Who doesn’t love a good penis joke, am I right?” WHERE CAN WE CATCH YOU “I am the host of Dragtavio Brunch at Octavio in Andersonville every Sunday, noon – 3.” SOCIAL MEDIA Instagram: @EdnaDMascara SIDETRACK Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/ profile.php?id=100012997543483 Feeling appreciative at the Holiday Customer Appreciation Party. Photo by Noah Powell Photos by Jed Dulanas WINDY CITY TIMES Dec. 25, 2019 21 them. My practical approach entails a therapeutic HOME IMPROVEMENT & PAINTING CLASSIFIEDS alliance that is affirming, empathic, and interactive. DECK MAINTENANCE AND STAINING. We Make Holes in Michael J. Bland, Psy.D., LCPC. Northside location. Drywall Go Away. We also do Remodeling, Bathrooms, Rapinoe named 773-404-8161. [email protected] / ADVERTISE HERE Carpentry, Tile Backsplashes, Painting. “A+” with www.BlandTherapy.com (5/13/20-52) Want to advertise your product, service, etc. to BBB. Licensed-Bonded-Insured, One-year Warranty SI Sportswoman Free Estimates! Andy OnCall 847-328-3100 www. thousands of readers? Place an ad in the Windy City INSURANCE of the Year Times! We offer affordable rates, convenient service, andyoncallchicago.com (7/26/20-26) Sports Illustrated magazine has named and as a bonus, your ad runs in our online section for lesbian soccer player Megan Rapinoe as its free. To place an ad, contact Terri at 773-871-7610 Sportswoman of the Year. ex 101, [email protected], or go On July 7 in Lyon, France, the United States to our website http://www.windycitymediagroup. REAL ESTATE claimed a fourth Women's World Cup triumph com/placeaclassified.php. with a 2-0 victory over European champions CONDO FOR SALE Netherlands in the final. Rapinoe and Rose CLEANING SERVICES LARGE ONE BEDROOM CONDO steps from the lake in Lavelle scored goals for the U.S. team. CHESTNUT ORGANIZING AND CLEANING SERVICES: Buena Park. Walk to Wrigley, restaurants, shopping However, Rapinoe has been known for be- especially for people who need an organizing service and nightlife. Wood burning fireplace, huge private ing an advocate as well as an athlete. “I’m because of depression, elderly, physical or mental outdoor patio, great closets, heated garage parking not going to the f**king White House,” she challenges or other causes for your home’s clutter, included! Storage and laundry room on same level. said earlier this year when asked about the disorganization, dysfunction, etc. We can organize for Association dues $302. $165,000. MW Group of RE- possibility of visiting President Trump. Also, the downsizing of your current possessions to more Equality is my policy. MAX Edge, W. Walker Robinson. 773-425-0881 Rapinoe and her teammates sued the U.S. I’ll treat you and your partner with easily move into a smaller home. With your help, we www.redfin.com/IL/Chicago/4334-N-Clarendon- Soccer Federation regarding the pay gap be- respect and without judgment. I can help Ave-60613/unit-105/home/13393459 can help to organize your move. We can organize you save on car, homeowners, renters, tween women's and men's squads. She also and clean for the deceased in lieu of having the be- life insurance, even retirement products. has shown solidarity with Colin Kaepernick, reaved needing to do the preparation to sell or rent Call me today to get all the discounts you deserve. taking a knee while the national anthem was the deceased’s home. We are absolutely not judgmen- played. tal; we’ve seen and done “worse” than your job as- CHAR SCHOENBACH 773-525-3030 Rapinoe also recently accepted Glamour's signment. With your help, can we please help you? 3322 N HALSTED ST. Woman of the Year award. Chestnut Cleaning Service: 312-332-5575. www. CHICAGO, IL 60657 [email protected] ChestnutCleaning.com (11/11/20-26) @windycitytimes COUNSELING & PSYCHOTHERAPY ARE YOU GOING THROUGH A DIFFICULT TIME?

Feeling overwhelmed, anxious or depressed? Is Discounts subject to terms, conditions and availability. Allstate Fire and Casualty Insurance Co. Northbrook, IL. © 2009 Allstate Insurance Co. your relationship struggling? I can help you better 255110 understand these situations and create solutions for 22 Dec. 25, 2019 WINDY CITY TIMES North Bar, 1637 W North Ave http:// with Chicago Transit Authority and Chi- www.youtube.com/watch?v=TGXS5rjuy-c cago Beverage Systems to encourage the Thursday, Jan. 9 COMMUNITY Tickets: http://www.eventbrite.com/e/ Chicago community to Celebrate Respon- Artemis Singers new member night Chi- dewayne-perkins-late-show-tickets- sibly® and let CTA be their designated cago's lesbian feminist chorus is launch- 85197793895?aff=ebdssbdestsearch driver. 10:00pm - 4:00am CTA http:// ing it 40th anniversary. Artemis is a CALENDAR MillerLiteFreeRides.com non-audition chorus open to all women Sunday, Dec. 29 singers, regardless of experience level or LGBTQ interest film: Present Laugh- Thursday, Jan. 2 music reading ability. Each singer should Thursday, Dec. 26 ter Starring out actor Andrew Scott American Veterans for Equal Rights be able to hold a melody and want to America's Best Outcast Toy Pride Arts (Fleabag; Sherlock), a popular actor's Monthly Meeting Monthly Meeting Chi- sing with a lesbian feminist chorus that presents an oddball holiday reality mu- life spirals out of control as his many cago Chapter of American Veterans for performs music written or arranged by sical. Through Jan. 12 7:30pm The and various relationships compete for Equal Rights, the national organization women. Non-singing members can con- Broadway, Pride Arts Center, Broadway his attention in this reworking of Noel of LGBT veterans formerly known as Gay, triubute other skills such as fundrais- Theatre at 4139 N. Broadway http:// Coward's provocative comedy. 1:30pm Lesbian and Bisexual Veterans of Ameri- ing, promotion, concert production and PrideFilmsAndPlays.com Gene Siskel Film Center 164 N State St.; ca (GLBVA). 7:00pm Center on Halsted graphic arts. [email protected] A Depeche Mode Christmas party Live http://SiskelFilmCenter.org 3656 N Halsted Chicago http://www. 6:30pm - 9:30pm Contact organizers performers, crowd singalongs, and even averchicago.org/ for location 773-764-4465 http://www. a snow machine. DJ sets by Heaven Tuesday, Dec. 31 artemissingers.org Malone. RSVP online. 9:00pm - 2:00am New Year's Eve in the Kitchen! LGBT Food Sunday, Jan. 5 Rainbo Club, 1150 N Damen Ave http:// N' Fun Social Group. Not a cooking class, Self-Defense Workshop for the LGBTQ+ Friday, Jan. 10 heavenmalone.com a cooking party 4:00pm Get in the Community Krav Maga is a self-defense Voice of Good Hope A dramatic portrait Kitchen! (3617 N. Broadway St. Tickets: system that encompasses a variety of of Barbara Jordan, the first African Friday, Dec. 27 http://getmeinthekitchen.com/product/ techniques derived from Muay Thai, American congresswoman to be elected The Gua- LGBTQ interest film: Temblores new-years-eve-party-dec-31st/ Jiu-Jitsu, Boxing, and Wrestling. It from the Deep South, her childhood in temalan drama centers on the revelation PARTY TIME Sidetrack's New Year's Eve $30 advance is a reality-based self-defense system Houston's Fifth Ward, her struggle with that the patriarch of a conservative fam- tickets available. Light bites from J&L that teaches techniques and principles muscular dystrophy, and her 20-year ily has a secret male lover. Through Jan. Tuesday, Dec. 31 Catering. Chicago drag showcase. Cham- to handle realistic hostile encounters. relationship with Nancy Earl, her com- 2 6:00pm Gene Siskel Film Center 164 pagne at midnight. A benefit for the Free. RSVP online 10:00am - 11:00am panion and occasional speechwriter, N State Chicago http://genesiskelfilm- Various venues will count Legacy Project. 7:00pm Sidetrack 3349 Titan Gym, 2256 W Belmont Ave. and ultimately her caregiver. Written by center.com down to a new decade. N Halsted St Chicago http://sidetrack- Tickets: http://www.facebook.com/ Kristine Thatcher, directed by Terry Mc- LGBTQ interest film: Pedro Almodovar's chicago.com events/783440202116497/?active_ Cabe. Through Feb. 23 7:30pm City An aging director (Antonio Photo by Jerry Nunn Pain & Glory Chicago Drag Superstars on New Year's tab=about Lit Theater 1020 W. Bryn Mawr Chicago Banderas) looks back on his life, career, Dida Ritz (Star of RuPaul's Drag Race), 773-293-3682 Tickets: https://www. and doomed romances on the eve of a Margaret Y Ya (Mexico City, MX) (Star of Tuesday, Jan. 7 citylit.org/ retrospective of his films in Almodovar's La Mas Draga), Tenderoni. Hosted by T OUTspoken monthly storytelling event semi-autobiographical opus. In the clas- Saturday, Dec. 28 Rex. DJ Greg Haus. No cover before 10 Celebrating uniquely personal stories Saturday, Jan. 11 sic Law of Desire (which also co-stars "Black and Gay" Comedy show Dewayne p.m. $15 After 10 p.m. Drag Show at from across the LGBTQ community. OUT- Counter Protest Against March for Banderas), one of the bedmates of a Perkins. $15 10:00pm North Bar, 1637 11 p.m. Countdown with the Queens at spoken is held on the first Tuesday of Life Rally The January 11th Abor- successful director of gay porn will go W North Ave http://www.youtube.com/ midnite. Party til 4 a.m. 9:00pm Berlin each month at Sidetrack. Doors to Main- tion Rights Coalition will have a coun- to any length to possess him, including watch?v=TGXS5rjuy-c Tickets: http:// Nightclub 954 W Belmont Ave Chicago Bar open at 6 p.m. 7:00pm Sidetrack ter protest against the March for Life murder. Through Jan. 2. 6:00pm Gene www.eventbrite.com/e/dewayne-per- http://www.berlinchicago.com/index. 3349 N Halsted St Chicago http://side- 2020 rally. 12:00pm - 3:00pm SE Siskel Film Center 164 N State Chicago kins-late-show-tickets-85197793895?aff html trackchicago.com Corner of Dearborn and Washington, http://genesiskelfilmcenter.com =ebdssbdestsearch "Black and Gay" Com- Miller Lite Free Rides will be available Chicago; https://www.facebook.com/ edy show Dewayne Perkins. $15 10:00pm on all CTA routes Miller Lite partners events/565524580691875/

YEPP holds second annual ‘Rise Up’ event BY CARRIE MAXWELL

Youth Empowerment Performance Project (YEPP) held its second annual Rise Up: A Celebration of Resilience recently at Chicago The- ater Works. YEPP Board Member and Co-Chair La Tony welcomed the more than 200 people in attendance and called attention to the upcoming Nov. 20 Transgender Day of Remembrance and Resilience. They also recognized Youth Homelessness Awareness month and made note of the high percentage of LGBTQ youth who are experiencing home- Left: YEPP ensemble members and alumni. Right: Transgender Day of Remembrance Memorial. lessness. Photos by Carrie Maxwell A video showcasing the Forging From Fire performance from YEPP’s 2017 theater production was played ahead of remarks by remembrance table that named and honored the 25 known trans- ley (46), Itali Marlowe (29), Zoe Spears (23) and Brianna ‘BB’ Hill YEPP member Angel Nordstrom. gender people who had died in the United States at that point this (30). YEPP member Sticky Bunz did her signature drag performance year—Dana Martin (who died at 31), Ellie Marie Washtock (38), The night also featured DJ Stephen Raskauskas, food courtesy of while YEPP leader Antonio Gray told his story in spoken word and Jazzaline Ware, Ashanti Carmon (27), Claire Legato (21), Muhlay- Premiere Catering and Events of Chicago’s Chef Scott Lloyd, a raffle, noted that 40 percent of LGBTQ youth experience homelessness and sia Booker (23), Michelle ‘Tamika’ Washington (40), Paris Cameron photo booth and cash bar. are twice as likely to attempt suicide than their heterosexual/cis- (20), Chynal Lindsey (26), Johana ‘Joa’ Medina Leon (25), Chanel YEPP is a safe space in Chicago for LGBTQ youth experiencing gender peers. Scurlock (23), Brooklyn Lindsey (32), Denali Berries Stuckey (29), homelessness to heal from trauma through artistic expression, Other speakers included YEPP Youth Programs Coordinator Black Tracy Single (22), Bubba Walker (55), Kiki Fantroy (21), Pebbles exploration, storytelling and performance. See https://www.we- Pruitt and YEPP Board Member and Treasurer Joy Messinger. LaDime Doe (24), Jordan Cofer (22), Bailey Reeves (17), Bee Love sayyepp.com/ for more information. Nordstrom also invited attendees to bring offerings to the TDOR Slater (23), Ja’Leyah Jamagio Jamar Berryman, Elisha Chanel Stan- WINDY CITY TIMES Dec. 25, 2019 23 CONNEXIONS

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