WINDY CITY THE VOICE OF CHICAGO’S GAY, LESBIAN, BI AND TRANS COMMUNITY SINCE 1985 July 16, 2014 Tuaolo, bean vol 29, no. 42 at sports hall of fame PAGE 30 TIMESwww.WindyCityMediaGroup.com Women & Children bookstore sold By Ross Forman

A cornerstone in Chicago’s feminist and LGBT communities dating back to 1979 is transitioning and preparing for a new, modern look. Women & Children First Bookstore, based on Clark Street in Andersonville, has been sold by longtime owners/founders Linda Bubon and Ann Christophersen to two of their current employees, Lynn Mooney and Sarah Hollenbeck, the Windy City Times has learned exclusively. The 3,500-square-foot bookstore was put up for sale last October, and the new owners were se- lesbian loses lected—from eight formal offers—in May. The nine-member staff learned of the new owners at a staff meeting July 1—and Mooney and Hollenbeck were given a round of applause when it was announced. cancer battle “It’s been hard to keep a secret, [especially] since we really couldn’t talk about it with anyone,” at age 26 Hollenbeck said with a smile on July 13, in the first public acknowledgement by any of the four that page 8 the store had in fact been sold. Terms of the sale were not disclosed. “The continuity of the legacy [of the store] is important, building on the foundation that is here,” Mooney said. “Women & Children First Bookstore has been a critical part of Chicago’s feminist and LGBT com- munities since the day it opened,” said Tracy Baim, Windy City Times’ publisher. “They have hosted thousands of authors from all backgrounds, and supported many causes in the community through their individual efforts and via the bookstore. Ann and Linda are community treasures, and mentors to Original Women & Children First owners Linda Bubon (left) and myself and so many other women who followed in their footsteps as business owners.” Ann Christophersen. Photo by Hal Baim Turn to page 6 MAKING EMOTIONAL trans* woman HISTORY JOURNEY continues to fight hobby lobby pagE 10

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BLACK LGBTQ page 25 FILM FEST TAKES PLACE ON NORTH, Laverne Cox—who just made history by becoming the first trans* SOUTH SIDES individual to get an Emmy nomination—talks about kids, Orange The annual two-day cycling event known as Ride for AIDS Chicago took place this past weekend, starting and ending in Evanston. Read more on page 25. Photo by Ross Forman pagE 20 Is the New Black and uniting the LGBT community. Press photo 2 July 16, 2014 WINDY CITY TIMES

LUXURY HOMES IN THE WESTERN SUBURBS MINUTES FROM DOWNTOWN CHICAGO

511 S. Oak, Hinsdale $2,989,900 323 Hillcrest Ave., Hinsdale $4,999,000

Prepare to be wowed! This distinctive custom-designed, 6/7 bedroom, seven and a Exquisite design/craftsmanship accentuate this 12,000 sq. ft. + estate. Featuring 6 half bath, spacious house offers an abundance of elegance in a warm and comfortable bedrooms, 8 and (3) 1/2 baths in the main residence. With incredible curb appeal and setting. Accented with interesting architectural details inside and out, this property offers professionally landscaped grounds, it sits on almost 2 acres of land in the Woodlands large rooms with custom high-end finishes. Perfect for the person/persons who enjoys of Hinsdale. Offering such indulgences as a main floor master suite, Chef’s “dream” entertaining in a fashionable style. Large indoor swimming pool with diving board and slide. kitchen, media rooms and in-ground pool with pool house, entertaining is a breeze. Built Ideal for those who treasure privacy and endless spaces to relax. Summer never ends! to impress!

544 W. North St., Hinsdale $2,199,000 970 Crescent Blvd., Glen Ellyn $889,000

Classic, elegant and the perfect home in “The Heart of Hinsdale.” This masterpiece of Recently featured in the Chicago Tribune as a “Dream Home.” design provides a well-deserved lifestyle of comfort and relaxed luxury. Rare, one-block A hidden treasure nestled in the woods of Glen Ellyn, this house has an open urban loft/ walk to award-winning Monroe School and popular Burns Field. No detail overlooked. floor plan with vaulted ceilings and custom designed details throughout. 4 bedrooms and Elegant rooms, arched entryways, high ceilings, detailed millwork, dark hardwoods 3 and a 1/2 bath. Desirable main floor Master En Suite with access to a private Garden throughout, floor to ceiling windows and plantation shutters, 6 majestic fireplaces, 6 room and Deck. Gourmet Kitchen with eating area and openings to the formal dining, large bedrooms, 5 and (2) 1/2 luxurious and well-appointed baths. An incredible Chef’s and living rooms. Multiple decks with picturesque scenery provide for great outdoor kitchen, an oversized island with seating, and a huge breakfast room, with a wall of entertaining, while the large Family, Dining and Living rooms are perfect for those indoor windows, opens to the fabulous Family room. Fenced and gated yard professionally celebrations. Minutes to the Metra train and downtown. The house backs up to the landscaped with three Bluestone patios. All this and more make this “The Perfect Home”! beautiful forest preserve of Churchill Woods. Superb architecture and custom finishes!

For more information on any of these properties, please contact Linda Feinstein ERA Team Feinstein LLC 22 N. Lincoln Street Hinsdale, IL, 60521 (630) 319 0352 http://teamfeinstein.com email: [email protected] 6201 S. Grant St., Burr Ridge $2,999,999

Custom design, builder-owned home in a secluded setting with lake views and a large pool with pool house. Serenely quiet w/brick circular drive, elegant formals, library and Cabaret cabinetry. Kitchen boasts eating island and breakfast room. Walk-out LL finished Disclaimer: Accuracy of information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. with 2nd office, recreation and exercise rooms, bed and bath. 5 large bedrooms on 2nd floor. Master w/sitting room and elegant bath. Total of 6 bedrooms with 7 and (2) 1/2 baths. Finished attic and multi-level patios. This home can’t be duplicated at this price! WINDY CITY TIMES July 16, 2014 3 this week in WINDY CITY TIMES Saturday, August 16, 2014 NEWS ENTERTAINMENT/EVENTS Religious right plan exposed 4 Scottish Play Scott 13 Howard Brown blood drive 5 Black LGBTQ film fest 20 WC&F sale 6 Laverne Cox interview 22 Bonn leaving; WGCI slur; Gray fundraiser House-music talk 24 7 Ride for AIDS roundup 25 Lesbian loses cancer battle at 26 8 Dish: MAK, Terrace on Clark 26 Marriage advocate needs kidney 9 Billy Masters 29 Trans* woman fighting Hobby Lobby 10 Gay in the Life: Onion 11 OUTLINES VIEWS: Peller; letters 12 Classifieds 26 Calendar 28 Sports Hall of Fame ceremony 30

Images on cover (left, from top): Photo of Jackie Weinberg and Fallon Fox by Hal Baim; photo of Wil Abtahi from Lenya Friesner; photo of Meggan Sommerville courtesy of Sommerville; photo of Black Alphabet Film Festival attendee by Janean L. Watkins

SBIAN, ’S GAY, LE OF CHICAGO THE VOICE UNITY SINCE 1985 NS COMM BI AND TRA 2014 July 9, , no. 41 WINDY CITYvol 29

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nation- unities r comm field sgende est Gar of tran 2 in W ception eiled July miscon v derfer and n was un lickens profiling campaig el B on the vertising en Rach Then click on any ad and be taken directly to the advertiser’s Web site! ng kind ad y Gretch Focusi Photo b the e, a first-of-its- age 7. ht at wid more on p kniG Ws ed Black . Read s revie as Unit Park Movie ’s weekend er lane his past Vern Hest athan he scene t each by n Ce’ art of t nbow B nan was p oto at Rai ‘the ff-n-Stuff ents. Ph Ms. Ru ious ev age 16 eld var p Pride h online exclusives at www.WindyCityMediaGroup.com show and tell Lady Gaga (left) and Sara Bareilles put on separate shows last week. Photo of Gaga by Jerry Nunn

5pm Hilton Chicago’s Grand Ballroom 8pm Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University

PERFORMANCES BY Giordano Dance Chicago, Hubbard Street Dance Chicago, Joffrey Ballet, River North Dance Chicago, Take a walk Ensemble Español Spanish Dance Theater down memory Life has significantly and Visceral Dance Chicago work-related changed—for the Pride at Work Interim CEO Jerame lane with Lisa better—for trans WORLD PREMIERES BY Randy Duncan, and Davis talks Brunei and women’s rights. Whelchel, best known as Blair musician Ty Nic. Harrison McEldowney & Jeremy Plummer on the ‘80s Photo from Nic show The Facts BENEFICIARIES AIDS Foundation of Chicago, of Life. The Dancers’ Fund, Making A Daily Effort MED RECKONING Photo from Hallmark Ask Lambda Legal tackles the issue and Agape Missions Inc. of Medicare and gender-reassignment GALA TICKETS $250-$600 surgery. JAY PRIDE PERFORMANCE ONLY TICKETS $25-$75

www.DanceforLifeChicago.org | 312-922-5812 THAT’S ENTERTAINMENT /DanceForLifeChicago @danceforlifeChi Find out the latest about Michael Sam, Dallas Davidson and Heathers: The Musical.

Before swinging by Chicago July 19, plus queer singer Jay Brannan reminisces DAILY BREAKING NEWS about the film Shortbus and discusses his new CD. Photo by Tommy Kearns

nightspots #1122 • July 9, 2014 Show #581 nightspots MEDIA PARTNERS THE POST-PRIDE PODCAST WITH AMY & MITCHELL

THE POST-PRIDE Dance Chicago Street Hubbard Murdock, Andrew | DANCER Sandro

ISSUE! PRIDE 2014 Lots of great photos from the Pride Parade, the Dyke March, Pride North, World Pride in Toronto, Pride and Joy @ The Center and more! PHOTOGRAPHY

Find Nightspots on www.WindyCityQueercast.com 4 July 16, 2014 WINDY CITY TIMES PFAW’s findings are similar to those of Jay sure that principle is respected and enforced.” Michaelson, Ph.D., in his 2013 report for Politi- The court ruled five to four on June 30 that New report exposes cal Research Associates’ “Redefining Religious federal law may not require a closely held com- Liberty: The Hidden Assault on Civil Rights,” mercial employer to provide health-insurance which highlights the deep roots of the persecu- coverage for contraception if that employer religious right strategy tion narrative that lay at the core of religious claims that to do so violates his or her personal conservatives’ response to desegregation, religious beliefs. prayer in public schools, and abortion rights’ In a similar vein, University of Pennsylvania advances in Roe v. Wade, the 1973 U.S. Su- law professor Tobias Barrington Wolff offered aimed at LGBT equality preme Court landmark decision. his perspective. “In the wake of the Hobby Furthermore, Michaelson and a growing num- Lobby decision, opponents of LGBT equality are by Chuck Colbert ber of national and statewide LGBT organiza- trying to reverse the progress we have made tions have spoken out against the proposed on workplace protections,” he said in email Within a few short years now, legal same-sex Employment Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA), correspondence. “As Chris Geidner [legal edi- marriage has arrived in 19 states and the Dis- saying that while it bans workplace discrimina- tor at the online news organization BuzzFeed] trict of Columbia. The armed forces’ “Don’t Ask, tion on the basis of sexual orientation and gen- reports, a group of advocates including Rick Don’t Tell” policy and federal law, which barred der identity, the federal law also would allow Warren have published a letter seeking to pres- openly gay military service, has been repealed religious organizations to discriminate against sure the White House to insert a broad and un- (for the LGB aspect of the LGBT population). LGBTs even in non-ministerial or pastoral ca- precedented religious exemption in the forth- And for all the religious right and social con- pacities. coming Executive Order on federal contractors, servatives’ efforts to block such progress, equal Advocates for LGBT equality maintain the and they point to Hobby Lobby as one principal rights for LGBTs, it would appear, are advancing proposed religious exemption, unprecedented justification. in significant ways. in civil-rights legislation would, in effect, gut “It is important to understand that Hobby However, those detractors of gay rights are ENDA’s non-discrimination protections. Lobby in fact rejects the argument that reli- declaring a truce in the so-called culture wars. Equality advocates—including Michaelson, gious exercise can be an excuse for invidious A new report highlights a stepped-up strategy who is a visiting scholar at Brown University— discrimination,” such as anti-gay and anti- as anti-LGBT activists claim their opposition to also voice concern about social conservatives’ transgender bias. full equality for gays and reproductive-choice efforts to empower discrimination against Wolff pointed to a key passage in the court’s amounts to oppression of their religious beliefs LGBTs. decision, which he said “was inserted specifi- and liberties. “Employment non-discrimination is vitally cally to respond to the suggestion that its rul- “Religious right leaders hold themselves up important, but at what cost?” Michaelson said. ing could authorize discrimination in the work- as the victims,” said Michael B. Keegan, presi- “Hopefully, progressive members of Congress place.” dent of People for the American Way (PFAW), will insist on an appropriate, narrow exemp- That passage reads, “The principal dissent which released its findings last month. “This is tion for churches and religious functionaries, raises the possibility that discrimination in a powerful talking point, even if not true. We while rejecting this over-broad one that would hiring, for example on the basis of race, might need to expose these distortions for what they leave hospital orderlies, school cafeteria work- be cloaked as religious practice to escape legal really are—an attempt to protect the Right’s ers, and shopping mall security guards without sanction. See post, at 32–33. Our decision to- ability to discriminate and push its policy pref- protection.” day provides no such shield. The Government erences on the rest of us.” More recently, the U.S. Supreme Court ruling has a compelling interest in providing an equal PFAW is a non-profit liberal-to-progressive in its Hobby Lobby decision has prompted one opportunity to participate in the workforce advocacy organization based in Washington, LGBT legal activist to say it is “a dangerous and without regard to race, and prohibitions on D.C. Jay Michaelson, Ph.D. Photo courtesy of radical departure from existing law that creates racial discrimination are precisely tailored to The organization’s nine-page report, “The Michaelson far more questions that it answers,” according achieve that critical goal.” Persecution Complex: The Religious Right’s De- to Keen News Service, quoting Shannon Minter, As Wolff explained, “In the days ahead, it is ceptive Rallying Cry,” documents how religious Christians are losing their right to free speech” legal director for the National Center for Les- important that advocates and leaders strongly right activists and elected officials attempt to and “that the U.S. is on the verge of institut- bian Rights. push out the message that the Hobby Lobby portray the increasing unpopularity of their ing unconstitutional hate speech laws”—and “Thankfully, however, the majority recog- decision strongly supports the enforceability stances on a number of cultural issues—for in- even “that religious faith itself might soon be nized that even under its sweeping new rule, of anti-discrimination laws, even in the face stance, same-sex marriage, public prayer, and criminalized,” according to PFAW. corporations cannot rely on claims of religious of religious exemption arguments,” adding, Christmas celebrations—as evidence of their The organization’s report takes aim at both liberty to evade non-discrimination laws,” he “Hobby Lobby represents a vindication of the oppression as they represent themselves as so- myths and mythmakers, including “the most explained. “That limitation is extremely im- principle that anti-discrimination protections cietal bulwarks against a culture run amok with prolific manufacturer and promoter,” Fox News portant and means that employers cannot should trump religious objections in the work- immorality. reporter Todd Starnes, host of Fox News & Com- exploit today’s decision to justify discrimina- place.” Some examples—or dire myths—from the mentary, heard on hundreds of radio stations. tion against LGBT people or other vulnerable ©Copyright. Chuck Colbert. All rights re- PFAW study point to the tactics and strategy: Take the case of Air Force Sgt. Phillip Monk, groups, but we will need to be vigilant to make served. —Two middle-school girls are forced into a who, according to Starnes, was “relieved of his lesbian kiss as part of an anti-bullying pro- duties after he disagreed with his openly gay gram. commander when she wanted to severely pun- —An Air Force sergeant is fired because he ish an instructor who had expressed religious Child with HIV, once opposes same-sex marriage. objections to homosexuality.” —A high-school track team is disqualified Monk’s story struck a resonate chord with from a meet after an athlete thanks God for social conservatives dismayed over the 2010 thought cured, shows the team’s victory. repeal of ‘”don’t ask, don’t tell.” —A man affixing lights to a Christmas tree By 2013, the religious right had spun Monk’s falls victim to a wave of “War-on-Christmas” alleged aggrievement into reverse discrimina- signs of reinfection violence. tion “that Christians were now the victims of By Matt Simonette had been discovered recently, and the child Reality, however, tells a different narrative. a new ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell’ policy,’” according will have to remain on antiretroviral medica- “None of these stories is true,” the PFAW re- to PFAW. A Mississippi child, previously thought to tions for the foreseeable future. port states. “But each has become a stock tale During a Values Voter Summit panel on the have been in remission from HIV, has once A study of 450 children had been planned, for religious right broadcasters, activists, and alleged development of anti-Christian persecu- again shown signs of the infection, research- but researchers say that a new trial design in some cases elected officials. These myths— tion, Monk, through a video produced by the ers say. will now likely be necessary. which are becoming ever more pervasive in the anti-gay Family Research Council, told viewers Doctors had announced in March 2013 that Dr. Anthony S. Fauci, director of the Na- right-wing media—serve to bolster a larger how he was “reassigned by his commander be- the child seemed to have been cured, follow- tional Institute of Allergy and Infectious Dis- story, that of a majority religious group in cause of his belief that marriage is the union ing an aggressive treatment of antiretroviral eases, told New York Times, “It’s obviously American society becoming a persecuted mi- of a man and a woman.” drugs that were begun just a few days after disappointing, but I was not surprised. I’ve nority, driven underground in its own country.” An Air Force investigation, however, found their birth. It was the second widely known been chasing these reservoirs for the last 25 The religious right and social conservative that “Monk was not removed from his posi- case of an individual seemingly cured of HIV; years, and I know this virus has a really un- are “reframing political losses as religious op- tion, but rather moved as scheduled to another the first was Timothy Brown, also referred to canny way of hiding itself.” pression,” PFAW’s study suggests, in an “at- Lackland unit, an assignment he was notified as the “Berlin Patient,” who received a bone tempt to build justification for turning back of in April,” according to Military Times. marrow transplant from a person who was ge- advances in gay rights, reproductive rights, and Similarly, PFWA debunks the myth of the netically resistant to HIV. Georgia man sues religious liberty for minority faiths.” forced middle-school lesbian kiss and the ath- Dr. Hannah P. Gay, the physician who put A former band director and music instruc- And while “the religious persecution narra- lete disqualified for thanking God. “The middle the child on the retroviral drugs, said the tor at a Macon, Georgia, Catholic school has tive is nothing new—it has long been at the school girls were never required to kiss,” PFAW reemerging signs of infection came like “a filed a lawsuit against the school, claiming core of the Right’s reaction to secular gov- notes. “The track athlete admitted he was dis- punch in the gut,” The New York Times re- gender discrimination after he was fired over ernment and religious pluralism,” the report qualified for taunting and disrespecting a ref- ported July 10. his plans to marry another man, according to notes, the persecution meme “has taken off eree.” The child had gone for about two years LGBTQ Nation. in recent years in reaction to gay rights and Altogether, “gay rights” serve as “the moral without any infection signs, including several Flint Dollar says he was fired from Mount de reproductive freedom, and to an increasingly test for our time,” the report notes, “warning months when it disappeared along with its Sales Academy in May after announcing on secular and pluralistic society.” that every advance in the rights of LGBT people mother and presumably had no medical treat- Facebook that he planned to marry his long- The religious right’s “frantic warnings” have detracts from the rights of people of faith who ment. But a new reservoir of infected cells time partner in Minnesota this summer. gone so far as claiming that “conservative have religious objections to homosexuality.” WINDY CITY TIMES July 16, 2014 5 Chicago Trans* Howard Brown takes part Pride July 27 On July 27, a gathering will take place at in National Gay Blood Drive Chicago’s Ardmore Hollywood Beach to demon- strate trans* visibility. By Matt Simonette blatant discrimination by the FDA.” A group of independent Chicago community Other drives took place in several dozen cities members announced a beach-side pride event Howard Brown Health Center, 4025 N. Sheridan on the same day, in an effort to bring aware- for the transgender community. Trans Pride will Rd., took part in the National Gay Blood Drive, ness to the discriminatory nature of the ban celebrate the broad spectrum of transgender a nationwide event calling attention to the and ongoing shortages of blood supplies. identity with a potluck picnic. FDA (Food and Drug Administration) ban on In August 2013, 85 members of Congress— As beaches are traditionally not trans*-af- gay men donating blood, on July 11. among them U.S. Rep. Mike Quigley and les- firming or body-positive spaces, the gather- Gay or bisexual men came to HBHC along bian Senator Tammy Baldwin—wrote a letter ing will stake claim in public space and join with a surrogate who donated blood on their to former Health and Human Services Secretary together to be present, visible, and proud. At behalf, and both participants then signed a Kathleen Sebelius asking that the Obama Ad- noon, the group and allies will gather with petition asking the Obama administration to ministration lift the ban. flags and other visible transgender pride items. lift the ban, which has been in place since the “Our current policies turn away healthy, will- Guests are encouraged to bring and share cool- 1980s. ing donors, even when we face serious blood ers, refreshments, sunblock and food. “What’s important is the screening, not shortages. Further, the existing lifetime ban Chicago Trans* Pride is an independent and someone’s sexual orientation,” Michelle Wetzel, continues to perpetuate inaccurate stereo- public gathering to celebrate the beauty, di- HBHC’s senior vice president of policy, strategy types against gay and bisexual men, and fos- versity and resilience of the trans* community and business development, told DNAInfo. “The ters an atmosphere that promotes discrimina- in Chicago. ban comes from a time when there was a lot of tion and discourages individuals from seeking See https://www.facebook.com/ Randy Taylor and Krys Shaw at the blood fear of the unknown, and it’s just not the case HIV testing and treatment services,” the letter events/539170032861277/. drive. Photo from Howard Brown Health anymore so to continue to have this ban is just said. Center Hall of Fame accepting nominations The Chicago Gay and Lesbian Hall of Fame is accepting nominations for its 2014 class. The deadline has been extended to Aug. 8. Interested persons can visit GLHallOfFame. org, click on the “Nominate” tab, download the application, have the nominee sign the form and mail as instructed. Another option is to visit http://glhalloffame.org/forms/nomi- nate_2014.pdf. The ceremony will take place Wed., Nov. 12, at the Chicago History Museum, 1601 N. Clark St., 5:30-8:30 p.m. ISU to make ‘all-gender’ restrooms available By Matt Simonette

Single-stall, or “family” restrooms, will now be known as “all-gender” restrooms in signage on the Illinois State University (ISU) campus in Normal. The change was voluntary, and implemented after officials noticed the signage was being used on other college campuses, videtteonline. com reported July 1. Only a handful of rest- rooms are affected by the change, as there are only about 10 single-stall restrooms on cam- pus, and none of their functionalities were al- tered. “While most people may not even know the sign has changed, I’m anticipating those in the LGBTQ community will appreciate it,” Michael Shane McCreery, director and ethics officer in the Office of Equal Opportunity, Ethics and Ac- cess, told videtteonline.com. “Small changes can have a big impact.” ISU will host the 2015 Midwest Bisexual Les- bian Gay Transgender Ally College Conference, the largest LGBT college conference in the country, in February. Now Showing At: These Locations Only

@windycity Woodfield Mall Water Tower Place Center Court 5th Floor Lower Level Center 847-619-2900 312-944-4300 times1 Jewelry enlarged to show detail. 6 July 16, 2014 WINDY CITY TIMES BOOKSTORE from cover

Bubon, 63, said she is not saying goodbye to the store. “I’m just saying goodbye to owner- ship,” she said. “So much has happened to me in the last year—to change my perspective on life. I now see myself as more than just the owner of Women & Children First, more than what I’ve done all my life. “I have been guided for more than 30 years by this mission and purpose to be a feminist ac- tivist, and I’ve lived out that mission [through Women & Children First]. But there are other ways for me to now live out that mission. And I’m excited about those possibilities.” Mooney, 52, who lives in West Rogers Park, has worked at Women & Children First for six years, and has 25 years experience in the pub- lishing industry, most recently as a freelancer but before that on staff at several major pub- lishers, including HarperCollins and McGraw- Hill. She is a New York native who has lived in Chicago for the past 20 years—and on June 25 converted her civil union to Marisa L’Heureux to a marriage. The two have been together for eight years, and L’Heureux also works in pub- lishing. Hollenbeck, 30, lives in Edgewater and has worked at Women & Children First since last Women & Children First Bookstore, at its 1967 N. Halsted St. location on Nov. 13, 1986. From left: Lucy Moynihan, Julie Parsons, Starla Sholl, September. She has worked at numerous book- Ann Christophersen, and Linda Bubon with her son. Windy City Times file photo stores for years and herself is a writer, mostly nonfiction. She earned her MFA in creative considered everyone,” Mooney said. renovation, it shouldn’t be for any more than out,” Mooney said. writing from Northwestern University, and her The list of candidates was narrowed to three two weeks. They plan to remain at the current location essays exploring sexuality, gender, disability, in March. “We believe that we need a dedicated event 5233 N. Clark St., Mooney said. “This is the and the perception of self have appeared in Mooney and Hollenbeck were told they were space,” and that’s something that is being add- heart of Andersonville; we love it here,” Hol- various literary journals and blogs, including selected to succeed Bubon and Christophersen ed in the area that now houses the women’s lenbeck added. TriQuarterly, Dogwood, and In Our Words. in May, and since have been negotiating terms, studies and LGBT books, Mooney said. Hollenbeck said a “huge mission” of hers is Hollenbeck also has worked at Independent planning the transition, and more. “We love author-readings, but often, they to expand the offering of locally based writers. Publishers Group and StoryStudio, as well as Mooney was promoted to manager about 18 just attract fans of that particular writer, not “We want to support local writers and we want large, nationally known bookstores. She is ac- months ago, thus works full-time and is in- new customers. We want to attract new cus- to have permanent, local author display that tive in Chicago’s exploding live literary scene, tomers,” Hollenbeck said. is more [prominent] than what we have now,” regularly attending and performing at area They are considering adding lecture series, she said. shows. She got engaged to Andrew Marikis, an support groups, additional storytelling and Both Bubon and Christophersen, 65, will have actor, in June. more. Plus, they will offer the renovated space ongoing roles at the store. Bubon will remain Hollenbeck, a longtime shopper at Women for birthday parties and other social get-to- active at the store, working two or three days & Children First, learned it was for sale about gethers. per week for the next two years. Plus, she will a month after she started working there—and With the new dedicated event space, there continue her long-running, popular children’s admittedly was “kind of surprised,” she said. “I will be more events, both formal and informal, story time, and more. Christophersen will be a wasn’t aware that they were considering retir- scheduled for Women & Children First, and they consultant, mostly on business-driven projects. ing.” won’t be restricted on days events can be held. Hollenbeck has long worked in the book Plus, the option for additional lectures, both world and wanted it to be her long-term ca- author- and idea-driven, and more also will reer. But, she admitted, she never considered help combat the challenges from Amazon and Prominent locals working at/in a bookstore to be a “real job.” other online sellers. “I just kept thinking that, at some point, The location of the cash register also will in ‘Bright Lights’ Fifty Chicagoans are profiled in Bright I will find a real job and then my career will moved closer to a wall, Hollenbeck said, “which Lights of the Second City: 50 Prominent start,” she said. should make it feel more spacious.” Chicagoans on Living with Passion and Mooney, meanwhile, was approached about Also around the renovation in early 2015, a Purpose. two years ago by Bubon and Christophersen new Women & Children First logo will be un- New Women & Children First owners Sarah A press release says that the book “is about possibly buying the store. “I thought veiled—centered around the ampersand “as a Hollenbeck and Lynn Mooney. Photo by Ross a carefully curated collection of portraits about it very seriously at the time, but there symbol of inclusiveness, that this is a book- Forman that, through its anecdotes, paints a pic- were two things [standing] in the way for store for everyone,” Mooney said, . ture of Chicago.” me—finances; I didn’t have what I needed to Both of the new owners said they mostly plan The profiles (approximately 1,000 words do it alone; and also, I didn’t feel like I had all volved with the book ordering. She will con- to just “tweak” the content offered at Women each) reveal facets of Chicagoans such as of the pieces. I’m a book person, always been a tinue with most of the store’s book ordering, & Children First. “I think the [book] collection Capt. James Lovell, Apollo 13 astronaut; book person. I’m detail-minded, driven. But, I managing the staff, displays, and more. here now is a really good model into the fu- Rep. Danny Davis, U.S. Congress; Bill am not a marketer; I am not an event planner; Hollenbeck will manage the store’s public- ture,” Mooney said. “The store, as it’s evolved Kurtis, broadcaster/documentarian; Tracy I am not a networker.” ity, events, programming, and non-book items, over the years, has been true to its feminist Baim, Windy City Times publisher; Martin Last December, Hollenbeck approached such as cards, t-shirts and coffee mugs. roots, but also has found a way to be a neigh- Marty, Ph.D., theologian/author; Alpana Mooney about jointly pursuing the business “Our vision for the store really hinges on ex- borhood bookstore.” Singh, master sommelier; and Kerry Wood, when she too realized she couldn’t do it alone. panding the events and programming aspect,” Mooney said there likely will be more events former pitcher for the Chicago Cubs. “Lynn was an obvious partner because I think Hollenbeck said. featuring male writers and a push for more Among other things, “Brights Lights” we complement each other really well,” Hollen- Both will work full-time going forward. male customers. asks “What manner of influences and ear- beck said. “It just made sense to approach her, “When Ann and I first started talking about Feminism also, naturally, will remain impor- ly-life events forged the development of to see if she wanted to partner together.” selling [the business], we immediately thought tant, both said. these individuals?” and “Who challenged Mooney said she was “thrilled” to be asked of Lynn,” Bubon said. “I was impressed with “We have an ongoing, serious conversation them to follow their passions, and how?” by Hollenbeck. Sarah since her first day [working at the store]. among staff about feminism, and the future of To view the list of individuals profiled, Bubon and Christophersen were very clear “Both are extraordinary book lovers, and they feminism, and what that looks like, and how visit www.betsystorm.com. that they would only sell to someone who both have extensive book store experience, it can evolve,” Mooney said. That conversation would keep the store going as Women & Chil- which Ann and I both felt was very important about feminism also includes men, Hollenbeck dren First—“because this is their legacy, their [for the next owners], plus a feminist commit- said. life’s work, and they wanted to see it contin- ment. “ Mooney confirmed that they have had discus- ue,” Mooney said. Mooney said she is not sure yet if they will sions about re-organizing the LGBT book sec- Hollenbeck said they applied and had nu- expand beyond the store’s current staff size. tion, particularly within the renovation. Thus, merous in-depth talks with Bubon and Chris- Women & Children First will undergo a store LGBT books will be meshed within all other tophersen, and a Florida-based professional renovation next January and February, Mooney books, offering a higher visibility. bookstore management company hired by Bu- confirmed. Mooney also confirmed that they will keep bon and Christophersen. The store will, for the most part, be open the store’s name, while acknowledging the “It was never a given that we’d be the [new during its remodeling and the construction of challenges that the name presents. owners]. We hoped that working here would a new, comfortable, dedicated event space. “There are male shoppers in here all the time, give us an advantage, but they looked and Hollenbeck said if they need to close due to so we’ve done a decent job on getting the word WINDY CITY TIMES July 16, 2014 7 am saddened and angered as I write this note have shot his ass too,” they said. The hosts about what I perceive is some pretty blatant later issued a full apology. Later that year, Bonn Wade leaving homophobia by Clear Channel Radio. When I Clear Channel dropped their program. called [CNN Program Director] Mr. J.D. Free- As for last week’s WGCI incident, Windy man on his obvious homophobia, he feigned City Times received no response to calls and post as TransLife director being hurt that I would suggest such a thing. emails to Clear Channel’s corporate headquar- I asked him three times if he was homopho- ters in San Antonio. However, Vice President of By Matt Simonette through the end of this month, and will also bic and while he never denied it, he refused Communications for Clear Channel Media and contract with Chicago House for special proj- to admit it.” Entertainment in Chicago Angela T. Ingram re- Chicago House announced July 8 that Bonn ects, according to the statement. In 2013, Sirius XM hosts Lex Staley and Terry leased a short statement that simply recapped Wade, director of the organization’s TransLife “When we needed someone really strong to James endorsed the shooting of CoCo McDon- the event: “The issue was addressed, apology Center in Edgewater, will be stepping down get the program started, and Bonn, with their ald—a trans* woman who was attacked by a issued by UB Rodriguez, and tweet was re- from their position at the end of July. expertise and charisma, launched it on good 16-year old boy. “I don’t blame him. I would moved.” Wade has not announced their future plans. footing,” Chicago House CEO Stan Sloan told “When Chicago House opened up the Trans- Windy City Times. “I’ve loved working with Life Center over a year ago, there was just one them. The rest of the TransLife team is fantas- person we wanted to be the founding Director, tic as well, and we’re excited to begin the next /windycitymediagroup and that person was Bonn Wade,” said Judy chapter from here.” Perloff, Chicago House chief program officer, in A longtime advocate for homeless LGBT youth, Wade was previously associate director of the UCAN program and program manager for Teen Living Programs. They are an appointee Vernita Gray LGBTQ to Cyndi Lauper’s Forty to None Project as well as a member of the LGBT and Allies Advisory youth fund holds Board for the National Alliance to End Home- lessness. inaugural fundraiser By Carrie Maxwell Fund,” said Crossroads Fund Executive Direc- WGCI hosts tweets tor Jeanne Kracher. anti-trans slur, About 40 people attended the Vernita Gray Nino Dorenzo, Gray’s unofficially adopted LGBTQ Youth Fund inaugural fundraiser at nephew, spoke about the impact Gray had on then apologizes Windjammer Room, 6033 N. Sheridan Rd., his life for the last 10 years, including the By Gretchen Rachel Blickensderfer July 8. Gray’s widow, Pat Ewert, hosted the work he does to help young people at the event. National Youth Pride Service of Chicago, on On July 10, The Advocate’s Parker Molloy Activist and community leader Mary Morten which he serves as board treasurer. published a story concerning Chicago station (Gray’s longtime friend) served as the emcee “Vernita will be missed but she will never WGCI’s use of an anti-trans slur about Emmy- for the evening. be forgotten because we are going to keep nominated actress Laverne Cox on its Twitter “Several months ago Pat and I were talking her legacy going. Thank you everyone for be- account. The hip-hop and R&B station was tweeting about the John Legend video “You & I (Nobody in the World)” in which women of all races, ages and body types stare critically at their reflections in the mirror. One of those women is Cox. Molloy reported that WGCI’s tweet read: “Looks like John Legend has a tranny in his new video.” She noted that, the following day, WGCI disc jockey UB Rodriguez retweeted the slur. He eventually took it down after claiming Bonn Wade. Photo by Kat Fitzgerald he was being bullied. On July 12, he tweeted an apology that read “I apologize if my Laverne Cox tweet offended a statement. “We asked Bonn to come to Chi- anyone that was certainly not my intent.” cago House to launch the nation’s most com- Radio and industry professional Kevin Ross prehensive center for Trans individuals, and posted a blog on Radio Facts.com defending in that endeavor Bonn has proven remarkably Rodriguez. “I have reached out to UB to dis- successful. In the time that Bonn has been cuss the term ‘tranny’ and there was obviously here, Bonn has launched TransHousing, Tran- a misunderstanding,” he said. sHealth, TransLegal, TransWorks and TransSafe. In October 2013, Rodriguez came out as gay. … In addition, Bonn created a Trans-affirming “I’ve been this way since I was 18 but have From left: Judge Judy Rice, Susan Eichler, Pat Ewert and Carol Ronen. Photo by Carrie training that has been used by hospitals, social lived a suppressed life because of fear and Maxwell service agencies and community based AIDS the negative connotations that come with the organizations.” word ‘gay,’” he wrote. about the best ways to continue the impor- ing here this evening,” said Ewert. Perloff added, “In just the last two weeks, WGCI is owned by Clear Channel Communica- tant work that Vernita did. ... I think most Among those in attendance were Gray’s Bonn and the TransLife team helped Firebelly tions, which is based in San Antonio, Texas. of you know that she had a very special place mom Fran “Toots” Hariston, Judge Judy Rice, Design create the very first full media campaign In 2006, the Gay Liberation Network (GLN) in her heart for young people. It made a lot state Rep. Kelly Cassidy, former state Sen. targeting police, local communities, health claimed that “WGCI radio personalities air ‘NO of sense for us to establish a fund so that Carol Ronen, Commission on Human Rela- centers and Pitchfork Music attendees through HOMO’ sound bites and feature artists that call programs that support youth led organiza- tions Chairperson and Commissioner Mona affirming billboards, posters and hand cards for the death of LGBT people.” The GLN were tions would continue to have some support,” Noriega, and Evette Cardona. that are displayed throughout Chicago and on part of a multi-organization protest against said Morten. The event netted about $6,000 for the Pitchfork’s website. These billboards and mate- Clear Channel that year accusing the corpora- “When Pat and Mary came to us and said fund, which the Crossroads Fund will hold. rials form a campaign aimed at decreasing the tion of homophobia, sexism and racism. this is something we want to do we couldn’t To donate to the fund see https://donate- stigma and discrimination faced by the Trans In 2010, radio host Jack E. Jett claimed imagine a better person to name a fund af- now.networkforgood.org/crossroadsfund. Community, and they are just one part of the that homophobia lead to his dismissal from ter than Vernita and we are honored to be Please note “VG Youth Fund” in the com- lasting legacy that Bonn leaves behind.” then Clear Channel-owned CNN radio. In a chosen to hold the Vernita Gray LGBTQ Youth ments/questions box of the donation page. Wade will continue in their current role written statement to Queerty, Jett wrote, “I 3-year-olds on up Beach Days • Field Trips Park View Summer Camp Camp goes through Labor Day 773.267.0072 • parkviewlutheran.org 8 July 16, 2014 WINDY CITY TIMES Lost love: Chicago lesbian, 26, loses battle with cancer

By Ross Forman lives: Abtahi, then 25, was diagnosed with Ew- ing sarcoma, a rare form of cancer found in the They met on OkCupid, a free online dating site, bone or in soft tissue, often in the pelvis, fe- and went on their first date Sept. 17, 2010. mur, humerus, ribs and clavicle. But Wil Abtahi didn’t really know that was a “We really didn’t want to know how bad it date, or just two friends getting together. was, so we could still sleep at night and live They had gotten tea, went to a comic-book our lives. No one wants to feel like the Grim store and were at Lenya Friesner’s home to Reaper is rattling your window pane every day,” watch a movie. Friesner said. Friesner turned to Abtahi and said, “You Doctors told them this past January that the know, you’re really beautiful; I’d be really angry diagnosis “was not great.” with myself if I didn’t at least try to kiss you.” “We knew that it was going to be really hard, That’s when Abtahi realized it was a date. but I think for a while we wanted to pretend And, yes, they kissed—and their romance that we could beat it,” Friesner said. quickly blossomed. By March or April or so, Friesner now doesn’t Friesner had plans to go on dates with oth- recall the exact timeframe, a brain tumor was ers through OkCupid, but after meeting Abtahi, discovered in Abtahi—“and that’s when I got she cancelled them. really, really scared,” Friesner said. “I just knew,” Friesner said. “It was a very aggressive [tumor] that did Lenya Friesner (left) with her late partner Wil Abtahi. Photo from Friesner After about four months of dating, Abtahi not respond to any of the chemotherapy or ra- told Friesner for the first time that she loved diation treatment.” her. Abtahi, who was 26, died July 5 with Friesner The lesbian lovers moved in together in Rog- and family members close by. EI calls on Rauner Groups withdraw ers Park about two years ago. “It’s pretty terrifying and awful to watch the Friesner said the relationship was, “fantastic” person who you love most stop being them- to return DeVos support of ENDA In an Advocate op-ed, National Gay and and tagged Abtahi as “so smart and clever.” selves. I had to learn a lot very quickly about donations Lesbian Task Force (NGLTF) Action Fund Exec- “We had the right personalities to just co- her oncoming death,” said Friesner, 28, who by Matt Simonette utive Director Rea Carey said the organization exist peacefully, happily, and never fought, in works as a senior market research associate. “It has pulled its support of the current version terms of yelling at each other, angrily. If there was a huge, huge comfort knowing she wasn’t Equality Illinois has called on GOP gubernato- of ENDA. was a disagreement, we would cry about it, in physical pain, but at the same time, it was rial candidate Bruce Rauner to return $13,000 In part, Carey wrote, “After much soul talk about our feelings and have it worked out really horrible having to watch her let go and in contributions made last week by the DeVos searching, the National Gay and Lesbian Task in a few hours,” Friesner said. “She taught me realizing that I needed to give her permission family who are prominent contributors to Force Action Fund has decided to withdraw so much about what it means to communicate to let go.” many conservative causes. Among their past its support for the current version of the Em- fearlessly and love unconditionally. Friesner said Abtahi’s last week was “very contributions was a $500,000 pledge to the ployment Non-Discrimination Act. As one of “She really was understanding and permis- surreal, and all connected.” National Organization for Marriage. sive that there are all sorts of people in the Abtahi spent June 30 in their apartment, the Bernard Cherkasov, CEO of Equality Illinois, the lead advocates on this bill for 20 years, world, and that there’s no one set way that last full day she spent there, but she was so told Chicago Sun-Times that, “What we see we do not take this move lightly but we do tired that she couldn’t really leave the couch Rauner trying to do, unlike Bill Brady and take it unequivocally—we now oppose this in the living room, even sleeping on the couch unlike some of the other former candidates version of ENDA because of its too-broad re- that night, Friesner said. from the Republican party who were proud ligious exemption. The next day, July 1, Abtahi was so weak of their conservative beliefs … is trying to “There is a better alternative: federal non- from the disease that she couldn’t even dress have it both ways. When he is in Chicago, discrimination legislation that contains a herself. Her dad had to help her get down the he is trying to impersonate a moderate. But reasonable religious accommodation. LGBT three flights of stairs, very laboriously, Friesner when he’s speaking to what he believes to be people should have the same protections as said. private, closed circles to his party, he says those contained in Title VII of the 1964 Civil Abtahi needed a wheelchair when they got to something else.” Rights Act. Legal equality is legal equality.“ the hospital, plus an oxygen tank. Equality Illinois and other activists and Later on July 8, the American Civil Liberties Doctors soon told Friesner that there was politicians have blasted Rauner for saying Union, Gay & Lesbian Advocates & Defenders, nothing else they could do for Abtahi’s quan- that he would have vetoed the Religious Lambda Legal, the National Center for Lesbi- tity of life, and instead they needed to focus Freedom and Marriage Fairness Act and put an Rights and Transgender Law Center jointly on the quality of Abtahi’s life. the gay marriage issue up for public referen- signed a statement detailing their withdrawal She soon was in hospice care—Abtahi the dum had he been governor. In June, a large of support from ENDA as well. struggling patient, Friesner the loving partner, banner calling attention to Rauner’s stance “Federal legislation to protect LGBT people who slept on a couch next to Abtahi in the was mounted at the corner of Roscoe and from workplace discrimination is way beyond same room. Halsted Streets. overdue, but Congress has no place giving re- Friesner knew then that “there wasn’t go- Cherkasov said of Rauner’s DeVos contribu- ligiously affiliated employers a license to dis- ing to be a turnaround … I knew she probably tion, “If he wants to run as a moderate can- criminate against LGBT workers,” said Laura wasn’t going to leave that room. So I really didate, then he should distance himself from W. Murphy, director of the ACLU’s Washington wanted to be around her and get the most out their money and their contributions.” legislative office. of our last days together.” Members of the DeVos family, whose pa- Carey’s full op-ed is at http://www.advo- From July 1 until a few hours after Abtahi triarch, Richard DeVos, Sr., was co-founder cate.com/commentary/2014/07/08/op-ed- passed, when her body was taken away, Friesner of the Amway distribution company, are in- why-one-biggest-lgbt-orgs-has-stopped-sup- was there—“to tell her how much I loved her, volved with a number of right-wing and con- porting-enda. to make sure that she really knew it.” Wil Abtahi. Photo from Lenya Friesner servative Christian causes, especially in their However, after prominent LGBT-advocacy Friesner spoke to the Windy City Times less home state of Michigan. The senior DeVos is groups withdrew their support, other orga- than a week after Abtahi’s passing. She was also owner of the Orlando Magic NBA team. nizations and lawmakers who continue to all people have to be, or things that everyone calm and collected, and quick to share a mes- In 2010, DeVos told Grand Rapids Press support the bill are reasserting its potential has to like.” sage from the tragedy: “To love fiercely, and that he had been repeatedly “hung in effigy” to extend protections to LGBT workers, The Friesner, an only child who grew up in Michi- even in moments of pain and loss, the love by the gay community because he was “not Washington Blade reported. gan and has lived in Chicago since 2008, is makes it worth it,” she said. sympathetic to their requests for treatment” For example, House Minority Leader Nancy admittedly very competitive. Abtahi, who was Abtahi passed away with her dad and his when he was on an AIDS advisory commision a textile artist, taught Friesner “that life isn’t girlfriend in the room; Friesner was in an ad- in the 1980s. Pelosi (D-Calif.) suggested she was still on about competition; it’s about cooperation, joining room, talking with her parents. Friesner “I understand who you are,” DeVos said board with ENDA by insisting the Senate- about giving people the tools so they feel se- wasn’t surprised at the timing; she was sure about the gay community in the interview. passed version is better than nothing. Sev- cure and free to be their best self.” Abtahi wouldn’t let it happen when Friesner “I accept who you are. Live your life. I will eral LGBT-rights groups have withdrawn their But then came Friday The 13th (of December was right there. respect you. But don’t keep asking for favors. support of ENDA; however, the Human Rights 2013), truly, the unluckiest day of both their Don’t ask for concessions on the marriage is- Campaign, the National Center for Transgen- sue, which is not vital to them in my opinion. der Equality and Freedom to Work still sup- They’ve made it a vital issue because they port the version pending before Congress, want to.” but said they welcome a narrower religious /windycitymediagroup exemption. WINDY CITY TIMES July 16, 2014 9 Conflict Center mediates Challis Gibbs (left) and Elvie for Ryan White grievances Jordan at their by Liz Baudler answer these calls, one person handles the 2013 wedding. case. It’s very hands-on. You can call any time Photo by Steve The Chicago Center For Conflict Resolution and leave a message—we check it daily. We’d Becker (CCR) offers free mediation services to anyone get back to you within 48 hours.” who wants them. “We’ve done landlord-tenant CCR does report grievances with agencies to disputes, or neighbor disputes, even siblings the Department of Public Health and Human and couples breaking up,” said Rae Kyristi, J.D, Services, but those reports contain “loose de- the mediation services director. tails”, according to Kyristi. “Like ‘client couldn’t “The idea of mediation is that the parties in access whatever’, or ‘staff member called about conflict will sit down with a neutral third party coworker.’ There’s a little oversight, but it’s Marriage advocate and discuss what’s happening. The mediator anonymous, and it creates accountability. For doesn’t make decisions like a judge or arbitra- agencies too, there’s value, especially when Jordan needs kidney donor tor or give advice the way an attorney would. it’s resolved— that gets reported as well. It Chicago community activist and designer Elvie “LV” Jordan is seeking a kidney donor. She is They help make sure everyone has a chance can help make it clear to the agency that their in a medical crisis situation. to speak and be heard. Things that aren’t rel- formal grieving process isn’t obvious to clients. A few months ago, she and partner Challis Gibbs were among the first same-sex couples in Il- evant to a legal proceeding, like, “I’m really It’s usually about missing pieces of informa- linois to receive a marriage license, due to Gibbs’ own health situation. Gibbs died a few weeks sad”—that’s relevant to a conflict, but it’s not tion, and we’re able, from this neutral place, later and, soon after, Jordan became ill and now is in a desperate search for a kidney donor. something our legal system can handle,” said to be able to help do that. Sometimes people All medical costs for donor match testing and the full procedure will be fully covered by Kyristi. in conflict just want a record somewhere and Jordan’s medical insurance. CCR’s know-how applies to those receiving that’s sufficient.” Donors can contact Rush University Medical Center to see if they are a match. Contact coor- HIV care under Part A of the Ryan White Act, The CARE Line number is 1-866-CARE-212 dinator Brittnay Hohoff at 312-947-4438 or [email protected]. which makes treatment available for those (227-3212). More information can also be For details on how kidney transplants work, see: http://www.rush.edu/rumc/page- with an HIV+ diagnosis. Providers must have a found at http://ccrchicago.weebly.com/spe- 1230579852739.html. grievance process in place in order to receive cialized-programs.html. funding through that act. Since 2005, CCR has run the CARE Line, a grievance hotline for clients and providers to discuss issues raised during treatment. Services are available to anyone, including Spanish-speakers, although sit-down mediation only takes place in the Chi- cago office. “A good example of when to call might be when people feel like they’re struggling to ac- We Have Waited Long Enough: Open cess their services. That’s one of the first things we check—are you getting services?” Kyristi said. “At the same time, we can be helpful if an Transgender Service in the U.S. Military agency is having a hard time with a client. If you’ve been at one agency for many years and A discussion with Aaron Belkin of The Palm Center you have to move, the program might be differ- ent, the access to a doctor might be different. We support both service providers and clients.” “When should you call? If you don’t know who Wed., Aug. 20, 2014 to call. If you’ve tried to get it resolved and you’ve talked to the people you think should be able to resolve it. We can make a few more 6-8 p.m. phone calls to figure it out. Sometimes clients The Keith House call and we help them think about whatever problem they’re having, and they realize, oh, I 1900 S. Prairie Avenue, Chicago can figure this out. Sometimes we do a phone The event is free but there will be a donation request conciliation, where we reach out to the agency or the caseworker or the doctor. Sometimes it’s President Obama made history this year when the White House as simple as one piece of paper that didn’t get said it is open to a review of Pentagon policies banning filed. Or sometimes, people don’t even know transgender troops from serving. In the history of the republic, no who their caseworker is. Or a client’s not aware president has ever signaled a willingness to consider transgender of what the grievance process is at the agency military service. When we win (and we will win), we will look back and how to access it. We might help get them on the White House statement as the the beginning of the end of into whatever system’s in place. But sometimes the ban. But what will it take to cross the finish line, to convert the President’s general openness to that system doesn’t work, or isn’t satisfactory, reconsidering discriminatory policy into actual political change? Come discuss the prospects for change and so another option is mediation between with some of the participants in process the client and someone from the agency.” Aaron Belkin is a professor, author, activist and dancer. Since 1999, Belkin has served as founding director of the Palm Center, Kyristi stressed that the process is absolutely which The Advocate named as one of the most effective LGBT rights organizations in the nation. He designed and implemented confidential. “There are just a few people who much of the public education campaign that eroded popular support for military anti-gay discrimination, and when “don’t ask, don’t tell” was repealed, the president of the Evelyn and Walter Haas Jr. Fund observedthat, “this day never would have arrived (or it would have been a much longer wait) without the persistent, grinding work of the Michael Palm Center.” Harvard Law Professor Janet Halley said of Belkin that, “Probably no single person deserves more credit for the repeal of ‘don’t ask, don’t tell.’” ‘Havana’ fundraiser Currently, the Palm Center is engaged in a long-term initiative to address transgender military service. at Sidetrack July 19 “Havana in Chicago”—a benefit to raise Plus: Booksigning by Diane & Jacob Anderson-Minshall money to help provide medical supplies and Authors of Queerly Beloved: meals for people in Cuba—will once again be A Love Story Across Genders held at Chicago’s Sidetrack Video Bar, 3349 N. Imagine if, after 15 years as a lesbian couple, your partner turned to Halsted St., which will be turned into a tropical you and said, “I think I’m really a man.” For Diane and Jacob (née Havana club for the evening. Suzy) Anderson-Minshall this isn’t a hypothetical question. It’s what The event is 4-8 p.m. on Saturday, July 19. really happened. Eight years later, the couple not only remains together, they still identify as queer, still work in LGBT media, and Among the slated highlights are salsa band remain part of the LGBT community. They paint a portrait of love, Latin Inspiration, authentic Cuban food from not only to each other, but to the San Francisco Bay Area, LGBT Paladar Restaurant, a silent auction and other publishing, and the queer community. Queerly Beloved is a love story surprises. that flies in the face of expectations and raises questions about the “Havana in Chicago” benefits First Hand Aid, true nature of identity, sexuality, and love. a charity that has been working for more than ! RSVP to: [email protected] a decade to improve the quality of life for Cu- ban children with cancer and other diseases, elderly Cubans who lack food, and other fami- lies in need. Tickets are available in advance for $50; visit http://firsthandaid.org/purchase-tickets. The ticket includes a drink coupon, Cuban buffet, live music, door prizes and silent auction. 10 July 16, 2014 WINDY CITY TIMES ing department,’” Sommerville remembered. allow Meggan to use the women’s room,” Meis- “That was kind of the tipping point when I ter said. “But what it basically comes down to Hobby Lobby still knew it was time and I could live my life with- is they don’t like the State of Illinois law and out people reading me [as male].” they say it’s ambiguous.” She sat down with her supervisors to have Meister added that, in his opinion, there is the conversation that many trans* people re- no ambiguity about the act at all. “When it fighting to deny call fearing as much as coming out to their comes to an employee such as Meggan who families. “It was my impression that it went gets a government issued ID that identifies smoothly,” Sommerville said. “And that my her as female, at very minimum, it’s not Hob- trans* woman’s rights manager at the time would contact Human Re- by Lobby’s decision to make. The Secretary of sources and find out what needed to be done.” State of Illinois recognizes her as a female. Be- By Gretchen Rachel Blickensderfer Her conversation with her family was another ing forced to use the men’s room is damaging matter. She was thrown out of the house and to her. I don’t think Hobby Lobby knows it or In a June 30 ruling in favor of the religious be- remained homeless for almost two months. cares that they are doing medical injury and liefs of national chain Hobby Lobby supersed- Meanwhile, her problems at work were only just medical damage to her.” ing contraceptive care for its female employ- beginning. Meister has filed two complaints on Som- ees, U.S. Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito Sommerville legally changed her name and merville’s behalf to the Illinois Human Rights determined that “corporations are people.” gender marker July 12, 2010. She fastidiously Commission alleging discrimination in both “When rights, whether constitutional or went through each painstaking step in the pro- employment and public accommodation. He statutory, are extended to corporations, the cess. Her driver’s license and identification all believes that the fact that Hobby Lobby has purpose is to protect the rights of these peo- said that she was female. She carried a letter also denied Sommerville access to the female ple,” he said. from Howard Brown Health Center requesting restroom as a customer sets a precedent that Yet there is one person—a Christian woman safe passage as that gender. The following day, could have serious implications for any trans* who has worked in the Framing department at she went back into work and was told that she individual who walks into one the company’s the Aurora, Illinois, branch of Hobby Lobby for would not be permitted to use the women’s re- stores. 16 years, maintaining a substantial base of stroom and that she would have to continue While Hobby Lobby have specifically not loyal customers who frequent the store specifi- using the men’s. “I asked them ‘Why?’” Som- stated their Christian beliefs as a motivating cally for her skill and services—who says her merville said. “I was not given a reason and decision in Meggan’s case, they have made human rights have been violated by the com- that if I had a problem with it, I had to take it clear on their website that they operate the pany since July 2010. up with HR. I attempted to and they said that company “in a manner consistent with biblical Meggan Sommerville first walked into the ‘if you can find legal precedent saying that we principles.” then-brand-new Lombard, Illinois, Hobby Lob- should allow you to use the women’s restroom, In March 2014, Salon.com published a by in 1998 having been jobless for almost six then present it’.” Schedule B tax form from the National Chris- months. With her unemployment compensation Devastated, Sommerville spent the rest of tian Charitable Foundation detailing a com- about to dry up and a young family to support, the day just trying to keep from collapsing in bined “nearly $65 million in contributions” the reputation of the Oklahoma City-based or- tears. She eventually presented Hobby Lobby’s from both Hobby Lobby CFO Jon Cargill and a ganization appealed to her. “At Hobby Lobby, human-resources department with both her Hobby Lobby affiliate company. According to we value our customers and employees,” a safe-passage letter and a copy of the Illinois Salon.com, The National Christian Charitable statement on its website reads, adding that Human Rights Act assuring access to public Foundation gave “a number of sizable grants to the company is committed to “Serving our accommodations regardless of gender identity. the Center for Arizona Policy and the Alliance employees and their families by establishing a “Still nothing,” Sommerville recalled. “They Defending Freedom, issued between 2002 and work environment and company policies that were giving me the class-A runaround. I felt 2011.” build character, strengthen individuals and like I didn’t matter and that they weren’t tak- According to the Southern Poverty Law Cen- nurture families.” ing me seriously. I was stuck between a rock ter, the Alliance Defending Freedom maintains Sommerville filled out an application on a and hard place and I was just being crushed.” a staff of 44 lawyers and has a record of “sharp Monday morning, was hired on the spot and The Aurora location maintained only two anti gay bigotry.” It is one of six groups which reported for work two days later. Shortly af- restrooms at the time. Both the male and fe- have “put effort into their anti-LGBT work in ter she began, she was offered the position of male facilities were used by both employees other nations.” frame shop manager. and customers. Humiliated and wary of making Meister, Eder and Sommerville are prepared She took that job very seriously. Despite her customers uncomfortable by seeing her use to take the case as far as it needs to go. “Meg- having no previous experience with the art, the men’s room, Sommerville tried to severely gan deserves that,” Meister said. “She is do- she learned all she could from her colleagues curb her fluid intake in order to avoid having ing something that very few people would do and worked with such tireless energy that she Meggan Sommerville. Photo courtesy of to go to the bathroom. If needed, she would which is stand up to her long-term employer eventually became an indispensible resource Sommerville walk across the parking lot to a fast-food res- and fight for her rights. She still has to work to the specific needs of Hobby Lobby visitors taurant, but that meant waiting for her lunch there every day.” looking to find the perfect frame for their art feeling from those customers who breathed a break—sometimes six hours from the moment It could be a long fight. “Hobby Lobby is be- or photographs. In 2000, she transferred to the sigh of relief to once again find her at her post. she clocked in. But there were times it was just ing absolutely horrible,” Meister said, referring Aurora location. “I really enjoy the customers “My manager knows what an asset I am to the unavoidable. Two years ago, she was diagnosed to an endless series of delay tactics on the part who come in here,” she told Windy City Times. store,” she said. “He gets people commenting with fibromyalgia, and symptoms include an in- of the company. “They’ve been less than forth- “Framing is such a technical and creative area [about me] and sees people coming in on a crease in urinary urgency. “I had to go covert- coming with documents and information. It that people want somebody who knows their regular basis.” ly,” Sommerville said. “If there was somebody took them months just to provide basic docu- stuff. I try to provide them with a really good Meanwhile, framing became a hobby of Som- in there, I would have to wait. The last thing I ments like the company employee handbook. finished product that they can enjoy for gen- merville’s, along with jewelry-making and her wanted was a compliant, or to make a scene, or We had to get an order for them to produce it.” erations and they appreciate that. They come own store catered perfectly to those needs. worse yet, for somebody to be hostile.” Sommerville says she is sticking with both back hoping that I am there.” In 2009, Sommerville had begun hormone But there was more. Her bosses made it clear the case and her employer for two reasons. Despite opportunities to progress to posi- replacement therapy to transition from male to to Sommerville that she was not to use the fe- “I think what Hobby Lobby has done to me tions such as store assistant manger or beyond, female. By early 2010 her customers had begun male restroom either as an employee or as a is wrong,” she asserted. “It’s just not me that Sommerville was content to remain alongside to notice. “About half of them were calling me customer. When she tried to use that facility they are doing this to, it is potentially any her frame shop team, rewarded by a genuine ‘she’ and ‘her’ or ‘that woman back in the fram- off the clock, she was written up. “They don’t trans* person who wants to go to work for care whether I’m a customer or not,” she said. them. The law is the law and you can’t just “I am not allowed to use the women’s restroom circumvent it.” period.” The other reason is her customers. “They love In 2012, Sommerville filed a complaint what I do for them. They support me person- Leo Bachrach & Son with the Illinois Department of Human Rights ally,” she said. (IDHR). Her case was dismissed with the IDHR Interestingly, the actions of her Christian • fine jewelry • citing insubstantial evidence. (Note: Windy employer have done nothing to the founda- City Times published a story on the decision by tion of Sommerville’s faith. In her blog “Trans Your reporter Kate Sosin.) That story was the cata- Girl at the Cross” (http://www.chicagonow. RAINBOW lyst for Sommerville to eventually be put in com/trans-girl-cross), she writes, “The ques- touch with Chicago attorneys Jacob J. Meister tion of how I justify or defend taking the steps should be as and Katherine Eder. to transition my life and live authentically as “Katie and I looked at this case and wanted the person I know God wants me to be is also extraordinary to handle it,” Meister said. “It’s just too impor- about being in a relationship. And that should as your tant.” He added that ultimately Hobby Lobby be true for every single person that calls them- has taken the position that Sommerville must selves a Christian.” show them proof of her receiving gender reas- Meanwhile, in her dissent to the majority LOVE signment surgery. This further contravenes the June 30 ruling, U.S. Supreme Court Justice Illinois Human Rights Act which does not de- Ruth Bader Ginsberg wrote, “The Court’s deter- Celebrating Our 70th Year mand the procedure to have taken place prior mination that [the Religious Freedom Restora- 55 E. Washington • Suite 801 • 312-263-3111 to access. tion Act] RFRA extends to for-profit corpora- “At various times they have come up with tions is bound to have untoward effects. The • www.leobachrachjewelers.com • different explanations for why they refuse to Court, I fear, has ventured into a minefield.” WINDY CITY TIMES July 16, 2014 11 About 18 years ago, Heidi J. Onion was approached by her police chief, who told her that their local park district was looking for someone to teach a self-defense class for women—and Onion was asked if she’d be interested in putting together such a program. GAY in the LIFE Heidi J. Onion TEXT BY Ross Forman

Age 47 “I was the only female patrol officer at the time and already a DT body strikes, choke/hold releases, and ground fighting,” she said. “The Town (defensive tactics) Instructor,” Onion said. “He thought it would be good most important thing to know is that we are all vulnerable. We must take Plainfield public relations for the department. I agreed, and the rest is history.” off the blinders and boost our awareness; this includes always being Relationship status She started teaching adult classes and then was asked by the local high cognizant of our surroundings and the people around us. Single school to do a class for the female students. She has since branched out, “No technique is 100 percent guaranteed. The best self-defense and in mid-June offered her self-defense class to the predominantly gay ‘technique’ is your own willingness to train for the unthinkable. [The] Job title Chicago Metropolitan Sports Association (CMSA). purpose in my class is not to make my students into ninjas. [Instead], Police officer, Village of Roselle “I took the class. … Wow, it was amazing,” said CMSA member it is to boost their confidence, make them identify their strengths and Hobbies Michael Erwin. “I didn’t know weaknesses, and make them Golf, reading, writing, running and what to expect and was very understand that they are a lot hiking intimidated at the start, but, stronger than they think they Favorite TV show by the end, I was throwing are.” Big Bang Theory punches and really feel that, Onion added, “Self-defense is in a horrible situation, I could for everyone who wants to feel Favorite TV policeman protect myself.” more confident in themselves. Detective Beckett (Castle) CMSA will be offering more It’s gender-blind.” Favorite movie policeman self-defense classes from Onion Onion has been on the Roselle Tackleberry (Police Academy) in the fall. Police force since 1994, and “[It was the] best $5 spent has served as a patrol officer, Favorite pro sports teams in a long, long time,” Erwin detective, defensive tactics Chicago Cubs and Chicago Bears added. instructor, crime prevention/ Four people (living or dead) who Onion said her self-defense DARE officer, and a bike patrol you’d like to invite to dinner class has been tweaked and officer. Rachel Maddow, Michelle Obama, changed over the years to keep She is currently assigned to Albert Einstein and Art Beeman (her up with the new philosophies and tactics that have evolved regarding Lake Park High School as the in-house school resource officer during the grandfather) personal defense. The class was originally geared for women only because school year. In the summer she works the patrol beats. Little-known fact there was a component that included rape-aggression defense and date- “When they tell you that, after a certain amount of time in this job, you “If I had the time and financial rape avoidance strategies. But lately, “there has been a need to branch get jaded, it is true. But I fight it every day. I still want to see the good in resources, I’d be a rare book out and include men as well, especially in the LGBT community,” she said. people, but I am definitely less trustworthy of others and more skeptical collector.” The typical class is four hours, which includes a discussion about in my observations. My mantra after 20 years of service and my advice to awareness and attitude, tactics, and personal philosophy. Then it gets young cops is: believe nothing you hear and only half of what you see.” physical. “I teach target areas of the body, upper body strikes, lower

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wait for the medical community to develop a First, learn about PEP and PrEP. Take it if TIMES JOHN proven and effective cure, we have to make you’re at risk for contracting HIV, cheer on VOL. 29, No. 42, July 16, 2014 better use of the groundbreaking technology your friends who are taking them and spread The combined forces of Windy City Times, founded Sept. 1985, and Outlines newspaper, PELLER that we already have in our hands today: mod- the word. One great resource is MyPrEPExperi- founded May 1987. ern antiretroviral medications. ence.blogspot.com. They’re here, they’re fierce, and they work: Second, get tested regularly for HIV. AFC rec- PUBLISHER & EXECUTIVE EDITOR Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and post-ex- ommends that sexually active gay men be test- Tracy Baim posure prophylaxis (PeP) can reduce a person’s ed every three months. That way, if they test ASSISTANT PUBLISHER Terri Klinsky risk of becoming infected with HIV by 92 per- positive, they can get the health benefits of MANAGING EDITOR Andrew Davis One step back cent through a daily dose of HIV medications. early treatment and protect their partners from BUSINESS MANAGER Ripley Caine People with HIV who are successfully treated infection. Find a free testing site at hivtest. DIRECTOR OF NEW MEDIA Jean Albright in HIV cure, but (making their viral load undetectable) have a cdc.gov. ART DIRECTOR Kirk Williamson SENIOR REPORTER Matt Simonette 96 percent lower risk of transmitting HIV to The Mississippi baby shows that pregnant Senior Account Executives Terri Klinsky, many paths forward their partners and can live nearly normal life women with HIV need access to programs like Kirk Williamson, Amy Matheny, Chris Cheuvront, spans if treated early and continually. the Pediatric AIDS Chicago Prevention Initia- Gretchen Blickensderfer In March 2013, HIV advocates cheered when But despite these remarkable rates of suc- tive, which helps vulnerable moms deliver PROMOTIONAL SUPPORT Scott Duff they heard the news that a baby girl in Missis- NATIONAL SALES Rivendell Media, 212-242-6863 cess, HIV medications are still not getting into healthy, HIV-negative babies. If the Mississippi sippi appeared to be cured of HIV. Without any SENIOR WRITERS Bob Roehr, David Byrne, Tony in the hands of everyone who needs them. baby’s mother had access to such a program, Peregrin, Lisa Keen, Yasmin Nair detectible virus in her blood, it seemed like In fact, nearly half of people living with HIV her daughter may have been born into this THEATER EDITOR Scott C. Morgan the medical community had taken another gi- are not taking antiretroviral medications—of- world HIV-free. CINEMA WRITER Richard Knight Jr. ant step toward finding a cure for the 30-year- BOOKS WRITER Yasmin Nair ten because they don’t know they are infected Today, there’s another toddler in Mississippi old epidemic. SPORTS WRITER Ross Forman or have dropped out of medical care. Groups living with HIV. I can see her now—laugh- ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT WRITERS But last week, some sobering news was re- most impacted by HIV—gay men and men who ing on a warm summer afternoon. She’s HIV- Mary Shen Barnidge, Steve Warren, Lawrence leased: Doctors announced July 10 that they have sex with men of all races and ages, Afri- positive, yes, but with support from her family Ferber, Mel Ferrand, Jerry Nunn, Jonathan found HIV in the Mississippi baby’s blood. Now, Abarbanel can Americans and Latinos/Latinas, and people and her community, she can be so many more she is HIV-positive and faces a lifetime of HIV COLUMNISTS/WRITERS: Yvonne Zipter, Jorjet who inject drugs—aren’t using preventive regi- things than a statistic. Harper, Meghan Streit, Charlsie Dewey, Carrie medications, medical care and the daily strug- mens like PrEP and PeP. John Peller is the interim president & CEO Maxwell, Billy Masters, Sarah Toce, Dana Rudolph, gles that the more than 1.2 million people in It’s clear that the federal government and of the AIDS Foundation of Chicago. Sally Parsons, Melissa Wasserman, Joe Franco, Nick the United States who live with HIV face every Patricca, Liz Baudler, Rex Wockner, Marie J. Kuda, private sector need to step up investment in day. Kate Sosin HIV cure research. But while we wait, there are SENIOR PHOTOGRAPHERS Mel Ferrand, Hal Baim, Last week’s news shows that a widely avail- two actions we should all take. Emmanuel Garcia, Tim Carroll, Ed Negron, Susan able cure for HIV is years away. But while we Mattes CIRCULATION CIRCULATION DIRECTOR Jean Albright DISTRIBUTION: Ashina, Allan, Dan, John, Renee, Sue and Victor LETTERS WEB HOSTING: LoveYourWebsite.com (lead programmer: Martie Marro) Moving on the health, strength and new ideas to carry but also irresponsible leadership. Women & Children First into the future. The last time I stopped by the Center on Copyright 2014 Lambda Publications Inc./Windy City Media We’ve taken considerable time to choose our Halsted, I was amazed to see security for the Group; All rights reserved. Reprint by permission only. Back The following brief letters from Ann Christo- issues (if available) for $5 per issue (postage included). phersen and Linda Bubon extend their thanks to successors, and we’re grateful to all of you who Center carrying arms. I was amazed because of Return postage must accompany all manuscripts, drawings, showed interest in buying the store. What en- all places in Chicago, I thought the Center was and photographs submitted if they are to be returned, and the community, as they begin their next chap- no responsibility may be assumed for unsolicited materials. ters both in the bookstore and beyond. terprising feminists you are! We hope that you a weapon-free zone; if guns are required, that All rights to letters, art and photographs sent to Windy will all find soul-satisfying, world-changing is what we have the police for. They are highly City Times will be treated as unconditionally assigned trained in the use of such weapons. for publication purposes and as such, subject to editing Dear Friends of Women & Children First: work. We’re thrilled to announce that two of and comment. The opinions expressed by the columnists, our co-workers, Lynn Mooney and Sarah Hol- Clearly, the Center needs to put into action cartoonists, letter writers, and commentators are their own lenbeck, will be buying the store this month. what it says it believes in—and that is to make and do not necessarily reflect the position ofWindy City In the months following the news that Linda Times. Publication of the name, photograph, or likeness of our community a safe space for all who need it. a person or organization in articles or advertising in Windy and I were selling Women & Children First, Their complimentary skills and interests, their dedication to continuing the mission of Women I would like to suggest that the Center’s board City Times is not to be construed as any indication of the many of you said lovely things about what the sexual orientation of such person or organization. While of directors look closely at the matter because we encourage readers to support the advertisers who make store has meant to you and also expressed con- & Children First, their love of books, their femi- nist purpose, and their combined experience in of the message it sends which is that guns are this newspaper possible, Windy City Times cannot accept cern that it might close or might not remain, responsibility for advertising claims. bookselling and publishing make them ideal part of the solution. Is this the message the well, Women & Children First. (773) 871-7610 FAX (773) 871-7609 Center needs to be promoting at this stage of We did our best to assure you that, no, we successors. e-mail: [email protected] or our various communities’ development? weren’t closing—that, in fact, quite a few But it won’t be easy. These are challenging [email protected] It is time for the Center on Halsted to adopt people had expressed interest in buying it, and times for brick-and-mortar stores as well as for a policy that refuses to except and hire any www.WindyCityMediaGroup.com that we were only going to sell it to people print books. Please continue to support the security force that requires visible guns as part podcast: WindyCityQueercast.com who were invested in the same mission and vi- store: buy books, come to programs, bring your of its arsenal to fight violence at the Center. sion we have followed for almost 35 years. I kids, parents, and friends. WINDY CITY MEDIA GROUP, am thrilled to say that we have found those As for me, Linda, I plan to be semi-retired 5315 N. Clark St. #192, Chicago, Illinois 60640 Joe Murray U.S.A people—two women who are every bit as com- and work a couple days a week at the store. Chicago (MAILING ADDRESS ONLY) mitted as we have been. I am so happy to turn over the responsibility One longtime customer came in to say some- of ownership! I want more time to read, write, Windy City Times Deadline every Wednesday. thing to me that I’ll always hold in my heart: perform (and play golf). I will still be host- Nightspots Deadline Wednesday prior to street date. ing the Wednesday morning storytime and the OUT! Resource Guide ONLINE “I haven’t had a lot of money to spend here www.WindyCityMediaGroup.com over the years and I know I haven’t been one monthly Women’s Book Group. This has been www.WindyCityQueercast.com an extraordinary, satisfying journey. Thank you of your best customers. But I want you to know you always treated me as if I were.” Lynn all for your support, confidence and love. “Windy City Media Group generated Mooney and Sarah Hollenbeck, the enthusiastic —Linda Send letters to enormous interest among their readers feminist and literary pair taking over the store, in this year’s LGBT Consumer Index are excited to make some needed changes and Andrew@ Survey. Out of approximately 100 improvements will continue to treat all of like Gun and done print and online media partners who you as their best customer. Because you are. WindyCity participated in the survey, Windy Together we have created—and will continue The summer is here, and we continue to have City was the best performing regional to create—this welcoming village that is so violence on the streets of or community. As we media in the U.S. Only survey partners important to all of us who have decided to be- enter LGBT Pride, we must begin to understand MediaGroup.com. with a nationwide footprint were long and help make it our own. that with the passage of marriage equality, we able to generate a greater number of —Ann now must focus on issues that have been al- Letters may be responses.” ­­—David Marshall, Research lowed to pass us by with our preoccupation Director, Community Marketing, Inc. Thirty-five years ago, we were two enthusiastic with social justice for LGBT people. and earnest young feminists, ready to change There are some in our community who believe edited for the world by adding a feminist bookstore to that the Center on Halsted is the root cause of the literary landscape in Chicago. Two moves the violent problems that beset our communi- brevity or and one expansion later secured our place in ty. They point out that the Center seems to be a community of independent businesses in An- a magnet for those disenfranchised youth that clarity. dersonville. Now it’s time to turn this lovely are attracted to the Boystown area. Like many space and lively business over to two younger, of our neighbors, I believe our community is enthusiastic literary feminists who will have under siege—not only by mindless violence, WINDY CITY TIMES July 16, 2014 13 GOINGS-ON WINDY CITY TIMES’ ENTERTAINMENT SECTION

Photo by Vern Hester

MONAE SHOT Singer Janelle Monae was among the acts at this year’s abbreviated Taste of Chicago. See page 23. THEATER DISH SPORTS On ‘Fire.’ MAK daddy. Elevation revelation. Page 14 Page 26 Page 25 Photo from A Small Fire Photo from Modern Asian Kitchen’s Photo of Joe Rudy from Rudy by Lee Miller Tommy Wang by Andrew Davis

SCOTTISH PLAY SCOTT

From left: Gloria Bound for Broadway Estefan, Jerry BY SCOTT C. MORGAN tale of a courtesan in the City of Light. N is set Mitchell and Emilio to play the Bank of America Theatre in Novem- Estefan of On Your The Last Ship recently set sail from its world- ber 2015 (following a Toronto run in September Feet! premiere run at Chicago’s Bank of America The- 2015), and is the brainchild of Ella Louise Al- Photo by atre, and it already has Broadway on its radar laire and Martin Lord Ferguson in collaboration Bruce Glikas for this fall. Hopefully the creators of The Last with designer Michael Curry, who has many op- Ship will have listened to Chicago audiences’ era and Cirque de Soleil credits to his name. reactions to their show (and that all of the There are plenty of reasons why Chicago has show’s book problems will have been ironed proved to be so attractive to theater producers out by the time it reaches New York). who want to get a show on its feet before fac- But the Sting-composed musical is far from ing the harsh critics of Broadway. being the only Broadway-bound show with Chi- “We distinguish ourselves based on our pop- The tax credit can also be applied to long- owners and other Chicago-area tourist attrac- cago tryout plans. In recent weeks and months, ulation density, our market size and we have running hits that play a minimum of eight tions. Broadway in Chicago has announced an impres- an audience that from a pre-Broadway stand- weeks with at least six performances per week. Cast members from Amazing Grace and other sive slate of four new musicals that plan on point is a very sophisticated audience,” said The currently running Motown The Musical shows featured in Broadway in Chicago’s 2014- playing the Windy City before braving Broad- Lou Raizin, president of Broadway in Chicago. should join the ranks of established hit shows 15 season like Disney’s Newsies and Dee Snid- way. These shows include: “And we have critics that understand that with long Chicago runs like The Book of Mor- er’s Rock & Roll Christmas Tale perform as part Amazing Grace, a new musical focusing on these are works in progress. I wouldn’t say they mon and the 2013 return of Wicked to take ad- of the free Broadway in Chicago Summer Con- the slave trade origins of the show’s title song. pull their punches, but they clearly understand vantage of the tax credits. cert at 6:15 p.m. Monday, Aug. 18, at Millen- Amazing Grace is set to play the Bank of Amer- that they’re reviewing shows that are not fully “It’s been a huge impact,” said Raizin about nium Park’s Jay Pritzker Pavilion, 201 E. Ran- ica Theatre starting in October and it features cooked, and that they tend to be more con- the Illinois tax credits. “So far we’ve been lucky dolph St. For more information on this concert a score by Christopher Smith and choreogra- structive than destructive in their comments. that we’ve distinguished ourselves from other and other pre-Broadway shows slated to play phy by Tony Award-winner Christopher Gattelli And when you put all of those things together, states that offer the credits.” Chicago, visit www.broadwayinchicago.com. (Newsies). Chicago becomes a very unique place.” Those other states with live theater tax cred- The First Wives Club, a revised new musical But there is also a major financial reason it programs include Louisiana (the first state From off-Loop to off-Broadway based upon the late Olivia Goldsmith’s novel that theater producers might pick Chicago over with such a program starting in 2007), Rhode Other Chicago theaters beyond the loop are and the hit 1996 film. The First Wives Club is other cities: the Illinois Live Theater Produc- Island (passed in 2012) and New York state, also sending shows to New York. The current set to play the Oriental Theatre in Spring of tion Tax Credit Program. which passed a tax credit program for upstate sold-out revival of Kenneth Lonergan’s This Is 2015 and it features a score by Motown writ- Passed in 2011, the Illinois Live Theater Pro- markets earlier this year that goes into effect Our Youth at Steppenwolf Theatre’s upstairs ing legends Holland-Dozier-Holland and a duction Tax Credit Program offers up to a 20 in 2015. space already has a limited run planned for new book by Designing Women writer Linda percent tax credit to producers spending more While those other states’ tax incentives are Broadway’s Cort Theatre, while Bruce Norris’ Bloodworth Thomason (taking over for Rupert than $100,000 to launch a Broadway-bound slightly more generous than those of Illinois, world premiere dark comedy The Qualms about Holmes’ adaptation that previously played in show in an Illinois theater with a minimum Raizin feels that Chicago’s thriving theater suburban sex swingers has just been announced San Diego in 2009). seating capacity of 1,200 (the show must also market will remain attractive to potential the- for a run starting in May 2015 at the esteemed On Your Feet!, a new jukebox musical fea- be scheduled for New York City’s theater dis- ater producers. off-Broadway company Playwrights Horizons. turing music and the story of Latin sensation trict within 12 months after its Illinois pre- “I’m passionate about tourism and I’m pas- A Red Orchid Theatre is also transferring its Gloria Estefan and her husband, Emilio. On Your sentation to qualify). Recent Chicago world sionate about the crossroads of culture and hit 2012 production of Brett Neveu’s The Oppo- Feet! is slated to play one of Broadway in Chi- premiere musicals that took advantage of the economic development,” Raizin said, noting nent for a summer off-Broadway run at 59E59 cago’s main theaters in the summer of 2015 tax credit include the 2013 Best Musical Tony how big Broadway tryouts and tours not only Theatre in New York staring July 31. For more N—The Queen of Paris, an adaptation of Award-winner Kinky Boots and the unfortunate provide employment for the cast and crew of a information on these productions, visit www. Emile Zola’s novel Nana about a rags-to-riches flop Big Fish. show, but for surrounding hoteliers, restaurant steppenwolf.org and www.aredorhidnyc.org. 14 July 16, 2014 WINDY CITY TIMES THEATER REVIEW and existential void by a single act of sexual congress with her devoted spouse. “I felt all of A Small Fire that! I’m still in here!” she rejoices, bringing Playwright: Adam Bock the play to its abrupt conclusion. At: Steep Theatre, 1115 W. Berwyn Ave. Bock is to be commended for his departures Tickets: 866-811-4111; from generic tropes: the inherent saintliness of www.steeptheatre.com; $20-$22 the afflicted, the domestic roles of men and Runs through: Aug. 16 women—John holds a non-demanding job that allows him to assume what in another age BY MARY SHEN BARNIDGE would be called “housewife’s duties”—as well as the decision to omit any mention of Billy’s Don’t be fooled by the TV-movie premise. Au- same-sex relationship until it becomes relevant thor Adam Bock’s specialty lies in seemingly to the story (and even then, the label “gay” is harmless settings spotted with empty spaces never invoked). Of course, this presumes that for audiences’ imaginations. Theatergoers an- because Emily is granted interior monologues ticipating a tidy explanation offering insight and sound effects representing the onset of into the domestic crisis depicted in this curi- each new impairment, Bock’s story is of her ously unfinished play are hereby warned that descent into helpless despair as she confronts what they take away may well be largely what her mortal fragility. It would be just as easy to they brought in. view her as a catalytic device for exploring the Emily Bridges is the hard-hatted and hard- responses of the people around her: Jenny an- nosed owner of a construction business, and nounces plans to relocate with her new family, the likewise tough-luck parent to her daughter and Billy—recalling the loss of his first boy- Jenny. Only in the company of husband John or friend to AIDS—warns John against permit- foreman Billy does she drop her drill-sergeant ting himself to become wholly immersed in his demeanor—slightly. In the weeks preceding wife’s deteriorating condition. Jenny’s wedding, however, Emily succumbs to Fortunately, Joanie Schultz and the Steep an unexplained malady that causes her to lose Theatre ensemble are accomplished at forging first her olfactory powers—smell and taste— dramatic through-lines from the slightest of then her sight, followed by her hearing. She textual cues. With microscopic precision, they greets these disabilities with characteristic an- invest each character with sympathy-generat- Checking Boxes cast. Photo courtesy of About Face Theatre ger and impatience, but as she grows increas- ing nuance to render every ambiguous moment ingly dependent on the care of others, her fury of Bock’s priapal-romantic parable an exempla- gives way to gratitude. On her darkest night Yet, Checking Boxes could do with some ry exercise in emotional truth and conviction. THEATER REVIEW of the soul, she is rescued from her physical stronger performances, particularly in the dra- Checking Boxes matic scenes involving Donny. Based upon the Playwright: Shannon Matesky final preview performance at Washington Park, and the ensemble Donny Acosta didn’t fully embody his charac- At: About Face Youth Theatre Ensemble ter’s nerve-rattling fear and hopeful ambition at various venues of being an undocumented worker in America. Dead Man’s Information: www.aboutfacetheatre.com The high-stakes risks could also be more pro- Cell Phone. or www.nightoutintheparks.com; nounced among actors like Ruben Adorno, Kyla Copyright free admission Norton and Rolo Rodriguez, who play Donny’s Victor E. Runs through: Aug. 1 friends and relations. Bvzeta 2014 But since Checking Boxes is a youth produc- BY SCOTT C. MORGAN tion that charges no admission, one can’t get too hung up on the aspects that aren’t quite A night out dancing with friends in Boystown up to a professional level. Checking Boxes cer- results in disastrous immigration consequenc- tainly makes a strong case that the fight for es in Checking Boxes, a world premiere piece equal rights in the LGBTQ community isn’t that devised by playwright Shannon Matesky and far of a cry for those living in the United States members of the About Face Youth Theatre En- who are undocumented. semble. But that’s just one aspect of the show, THEATER REVIEW namics to the foreground. which tackles different opinions, viewpoints Director Toma Tavares Langston’s efforts to and even ignorance when it comes to issues of CRITICS’ PICKS Dead Man’s impose a linear narrative on Ruhl’s often me- immigration in the U.S. today. andering script (think dialogues with the de- Checking Boxes plays like a poetry-filled re- Cell Phone parted in a corporate-bland afterlife, or dirty Annapurna, Profiles Theatre Alley Stage, Playwright: Sarah Ruhl vue, with some queer and straight-allied cast deals involving sinister foreign agents) are through July 20. This latest duet in the At: The Enthusiasts at the members making statements about immigra- accomplished through lively pacing and the key of kitchen-sink marital reconciliation Athenaeum, 2936 N. Southport Ave. tion. Some reflect on their own families’ im- focus on psychological detail exhibited by is elevated beyond its genre by the rivet- Tickets: 773-935-6875; migration experiences and privileges, while his cast of mostly young non-equity actors. ing nuanced performances of Darrell Cox www.athenaeumtheatre.org; $20 others ponder more overarching political issues For example, the Gottliebs’ reactions when and Lia Mortensen. MSB Runs through: July 27 tied to the broken U.S. immigration system. Jean claims to be a co-worker of the late Apes of Wrath, The Second City e.t.c., The cast also go out of their way to liken- Gordon alerts us immediately to the shady an ongoing run. Deep existential despair BY MARY SHEN BARNIDGE ing the fear that some people have at coming nature of his employment. This, in turn, gen- and sci-fi matters make for great comic out as gay with the fear that some immigrants erates suspense regarding the legacy that gold in this hilarious and new sketch There’s this guy in a café, you see, who express when they risk coming out to others as Jean strives so valiantly to whitewash, so comedy revue directed by Jen Ellison. quietly dies in his chair, and then his cell undocumented. This aspect is played up in the that when the truth emerges, we share the The writer-performers are all unashamedly phone rings. A stranger at the next table tale of the Mexican immigrant Donny (Donny posthumous advocate’s shock and revulsion. brainy and funny at the same time. SCM answers the noisy device and discovers that Acosta), who illegally crosses the border to Erin Kelly Outson’s refusal to play the Juno, TimeLine Theatre, through July it has been rendered ownerless—forever. At escape an abusive anti-gay grandfather so he socially unmoored Jean as a caricature of 27. Marc Blitzstein’s rarely-seen musical first, Jean is reluctant to alarm the callers can find work and hopefully go to school in mousy spinsterhood allows her to partici- of Sean O’Casey’s Juno and the Paycock and takes messages that she knows the man Chicago. pate actively in forging her unexpected des- preserves all O’Casey’s brooding tragedy they identify as Gordon Gottlieb will never Matesky and the cast create some good tiny—visibly tailoring her fabrications to but jettisons much of the character com- answer. Later, her self-imposed duty to the scenes as they show Donny’s struggle to find what each survivor would want to hear, say, edy. It’s a problem, although this produc- dead grows to include consolation—most work, and how his friends react when he re- or vehemently defending her possession of tion is beautifully sung, acted, played and of it improvised as needed—for his family veals that he’s undocumented. Some of his the electronic key to a new future replete staged. Indeed, off-Loop doesn’t get much members. Soon she finds herself embraced friends are very supportive, while others (one with adventure, companionship and even better. JA by the bereaved clan and, more ominously, in particular played by Brittany Stokes) feel romance. (How fitting that the shy brother Take Your Hands Off Me, Chekhov!, An- by his former business associates. angry and betrayed. engaging Jean’s affections should be a seller noyance Theatre & Bar, through July 30. The 2007 premiere version of Sarah Ruhl’s Now as a free touring production that is part of stationery—paper’s permanence repre- In a mere 40 minutes, the classic play- play suffered from a heightened mysticism of the Chicago Park District’s Night Out in the senting the antithesis of words immediately wrights impose all kinds of, um, drama on engendered by big-budget pageantry and Parks initiative, Checking Boxes certainly does consigned to the limbo of cyberspace.) the destinies of an affluent North Shore the role of Jean misconceived as a tabula its job of enlightening audiences about immi- Her fellow pilgrims in this fragile universe couple in Anne and Greg Taubenek’s satiri- rasa. The Enthusiasts being a small start- gration and hopefully serves as a call to action also get their say, addressing us directly, cal romp. (Tracy Letts, you’re now a punch up company, its funds are as limited as the (despite its very pessimistic ending that likely even sometimes breaking through the fourth line.) MSB dimensions of their Athenaeum studio quar- reflects how many U.S. residents feel about the wall, in their anger and frustration at the —By Abarbanel, Barnidge ters. Ironically, these very restrictions make topic). Understandably, the production design ephemeral nature of communication in an for a far superior production, reducing the backdrop assemblage of street signs and fences and Morgan increasingly isolated world. Now will you conceptual clutter, along with the no-longer by Sotirios Livaditis is adaptably simple for remember to shut off your you-know-what alarming diatribes on portable-phone cul- touring, while some of Ali Hoefnagel’s direc- before the show? tion is rudimentarily simple. ture, to bring the story’s interpersonal dy- WINDY CITY TIMES July 16, 2014 15 THEATER REVIEW as the townsfolk chase Harry. Sorry, there’s no way that outright murder is suitable for Briga- Brigadoon doon, which is a romantic fairy tale. Playwright: Alan Jay Lerner You know the story: Two post-WWII American SPOTLIGHT (book & lyrics), Frederick Loewe (music) buds, vacationing in the Scottish Highlands, At: Goodman Theatre, 170 N. Dearborn St. stumble upon a 1740s town where Tommy finds Tickets: 312-443-3800; love. Miraculously, Brigadoon appears only one www.GoodmanTheatre.org/Brigadoon; day each century, although for the townsfolk $25-$98 only a single day has passed. Brigadoon will Runs through: Aug. 17 cease to exist if anyone leaves the town, which is what Harry tries to do. But it’s not the comic BY JONATHAN ABARBANEL lead’s job to stop the villain (which Harry is, although he’s not villainous); it’s the hero’s Take a musical with a wonderful score from job. The murderous revision only makes worse Broadway’s Golden Era, and sing and play that the most awkward element of Lerner’s story. score beautifully, and you’re 80 percent of the Here’s how it should work: As everyone pursues way to a hit—and that’s Brigadoon at the Harry, he encounters Tommy, the hero, who Goodman Theatre. When lovers Fiona McClaren grapples him to the ground. Harry hits his head (Jennie Sophia) and Tommy Albright (Kevin on a rock and dies (which sticks to Lerner’s Earley) soar in song, this new production can original). If Tommy is responsible for Harry’s Was the famous French warrior Joan of Arc a hero? Was she a delusional child? Or does she de- do no wrong, and the audience soars with them accidental death, it gives him greater motiva- serve her status as a truly pious religious martyr? The Paradeigma Collective teams up with The on “From This Day On” and “Almost Like Being tion both to leave Brigadoon and to eventually Chicago Mammals to explore all these ideas in Whitney LaMora’s new drama Shepherd’s Daugh- return. ter: a Joan of Arc Reimagining, which features many actresses taking on different aspects of This big issue has nothing to do with the the historical medieval figure. Shepherd’s Daughter: a Joan of Arc Reimagining continues at quality of the performances. Goodman’s Briga- 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays though Aug. 2 at Zoo Studios, 4001 N. Ravenswood Ave. Tickets doon brings back Broadway’s Golden Age with are $20; visit http://joan.brownpapertickets.com or call 800-838-3006. Photo (deliberately musical luster, although I decry scenic designer altered) from Colin and Sarah Beckett Kevin Depinet’s use of too-often-darned fish- net as a screen for his lovely projections of the Highlands.

NUNN ON ONE wouldn’t want to do it because it was so much fun. It was being part of a team then. It is like a wonderful game you have discovered. It Fred Willard returns is supposed to be. It is a lot of fun when you get into it with friends you know and people to Second City who you trust. That is very important. It can be scary as hell otherwise! by Jerry Nunn WCT: It must have paid off with all of your Christopher Guest roles. Actor and comedian Fred Willard will always FW: Yes. The first movie I did with Christo- be remembered for his improvisational skills. pher he told me there would be no script and This Is Spinal Tap—along with films like it would be improvised. I thought, “That’s Waiting for Guffman, Best in Show, A Mighty great; I don’t have to memorize all those Wind and For Your Consideration—have ce- lines.” Walking out to my car, then I realized mented that. He went on to such movies as I would have to come up with all of those WALL-E and Anchorman 2: The Legend Con- lines! tinues. That was great working with people like His television roles have been numerous, Catherine O’Hara, Eugene Levy and Bob Bala- ranging from Laverne & Shirley to Community ban. We just fell right into it. to Modern Family. WCT: Look at Jane Lynch. She’s gone on This Second City alumnus now returns to to do very well. give back to the organization that made him FW: She’s wonderful. I don’t know if she is the man he is today. a Second City person or not. Windy City Times: Hi, Fred. I’m excited WCT: She’s from the Chicago area. She you are coming to Chicago. got her started with the Brady Bunch live Fred Willard: I’m excited too. I like coming show here. back to Second City and doing things there. FW: I’m learning about her, okay... WCT: You are an [alumnus of] Second WCT: Did you base some of these charac- City? ters on people you know? FW: Yes. It was back in 1966, I think. They FW: Of course you do. When I first got to had a different way of recruiting people. New York I got a job at a credit office. The Rod Thomas (Jeff Douglas) and Maggie What you did was audition for them. I was people I worked with had nonsensical rules Portman (Meg Brockie) in Brigadoon. Photo familiar with Second City because I saw them and stuffy bosses I was always amused by. I by Liz Laurenoken Gay Folk Revue. Photo by on Broadway with Alan Arkin in the original think I very easily jumped into one of those Shannon Jenkins/Flaming City Photography company. I was doing sketch comedy with characters and make fun of them. a partner in the coffee houses in New York in Love.” The eminently hummable Lerner and WCT; Congrats on the Emmy nomination and around the country. My agent called me Loewe score is lilting, rhythmic and tender in for Modern Family. It must be a blast to be and wanted me to audition for them. I didn’t alternating beats, and it’s heard to near-per- on the show. think I could do that because they seemed FW: It is. I had worked with the producers fection as guided by musical director Roberta so bright and politically oriented but I did on a show just a year before that with Kelsey Duchak and played by a 13-piece orchestra. Fred Willard. Photo by Tim Leyes anyway. Grammer called Back to You. They only did The supporting cast reaches the same stan- Robert Klein was in the group I auditioned one season so I was very pleased that they dard. Comic characters Meg Brockie (Maggie whatever they want. It is honoring Gilda Rad- with. I had never improvised before but for got such a successful show as Modern Family. Portman), the hot-to-trot milkmaid, and Jeff ner, and will also help out Second City alumni some reason it worked out very well. By the Douglas (Rod Thomas) are equally adept at who get sick and don’t have insurance. It is WCT: You look just like his father. [Wil- end of the time they had more time and I delivering quips, sardonic comments and wry like one big fraternity and a family. We all lard is the father of Ty Burrell on the raised my hand to try another one. They of- lyrics (in Portman’s case; Thomas doesn’t sing). know each other and support each other. I show.] That is great casting. fered me the spot and I was working on other FW: Yeah, Ty Burrell is terrific. It is wonder- And the secondary leads—the substantial never go back to Chicago without seeing a things but luckily I wound up working in Chi- ful show. Frankly I didn’t even watch it before dance roles of “Bonnie” Jean McClaren (Olivia Second City show. cago. I did my first episode. When I was making it Renteria), Charlie Dalrymple (Jordan Brown) WCT: Some people are good at improvis- WCT: There will be lots of stars at this I looked around and saw what was happening and Harry Beaton (Rhett Guter)—give deep ing, but it can be quite scary. How is it fundraiser for Second City. and thought how clever it was. Now I am a sensual value to their songs and (especially) for you? FW: I am close friends with Mike Hagerty, big fan of it. dances, thereby underscoring the considerable FW: It is both. It is very scary. The key to who will be there along with David Koechner sexuality beneath the pretty surface of Briga- me is to do it all the time. If not you are on- See Willard in person at The Second City and George Wendt. I was just with Scott Adsit doon. stage thinking about when to jump in. Now All-Star Comedy Benefit, 1616 N. Wells in Nantucket for the film festival there. Not quite as successful is the decision by when I come back to Chicago they ask if I will St., July 17, at 7 p.m. and 10 p.m, with I am not sure what we are going to do but I director and choreographer Rachel Rockwell do a set and that is scary to me. the event benefitting the Alumni Fund and am hoping to be in one of my favorite Second to revise Alan Jay Lerner’s original book dat- WCT: That’s a lot of pressure. Gilda’s Club. Visit www.SecondCity.com for City sketches called “When Football Comes to ing from 1947, a chore handled by Brian Hill FW: I will go to the first show because I details and tickets. the University of Chicago.” It is an old clas- mostly with skill, if not always subtlety. But know [improv] won’t improve after that See the full interview online at www. sic. I was not in the original version. I will do in a shocking alteration in Act II, comic lead show. Before I never understood why people WindyCityMediaGroup.com. Jeff Douglas deliberately shoots Harry Beaton 20 July 16, 2014 WINDY CITY TIMES Movie festival gives voice, vision to Black LGBTQ filmmakers roundup By Janean L. Watkins 100 LGBTQ Black women people should know, created a film that directly challenges the In the second year since its inception, the hetero-normative nature of our society. Judg- Black Alphabet Film Festival (BAFF) has found ing by the audience’s response, her debut as a way to creatively tell the stories of the mar- writer/director/actor in the film was a success. ginalized. This year’s festival, which kicked off Also shown was The Way to Kevin, a docu- its event reception at Circuit Nightclub, show- mentary by Erin Davis and Nathan Edmondson. cased a myriad of films to festivalgoers—all The film covers a year and a half in the life of with the purpose of empowering Black LGBTQ storytellers. Founded in 2013, BAFF was borne of the need to organize a festival that recognizes Knight at Black LGBTQ films that have been overlooked by the larger national and international ven- the Movies ues. In one year, BAFF grew from one sponsor to eight. The festival’s success is due largely Sampson McCormick (left) and Patrik-Ian Polk at the film festival. Photo by Janean L. Watkins to the community partnerships with organiza- will return tions like Affinity Community Services, No Wire A post-screening Q&A, led by Sampson Mc- raising. When Floyd and her colleagues started Hangers Productions and Center on Halsted. Cormick, was a lively discussion surrounding BAFF, their tagline became “Telling Our Stories BAFF took place over two nights: July 2 at next week. the making of the film and the conditions with- Beyond the Rainbow.” The DuSable Museum and July 3 at the Center in the lives of the characters. Polk answered This year’s festival also included McCormick’s on Halsted. questions about his relatable experiences and concert film That Bitch Better Be Funny. Sponsors for the festival ranged from UIC his process for making the film. Otis Richardson, of Lavenderpop Greeting Gender and Sexuality Center to AIDS Founda- Philadelphia native Kevin Mines. In the docu- Polk, who is well-known for films such as The Cards, was on hand for the festivities as well. tion of Chicago. On hand to represent the foun- mentary, Mines—known for his roles as a porn Skinny and TV projects like Noah’s Arc, said he He expressed his excitement to see Blackbird. dation was Anthony Galloway, who spoke about star—makes the transition from his former life was a fan of the book the first time he read it. “I am always looking for positive representa- the contributions of the AIDS Foundation of to running his own production company. “I knew I wanted to bring it to the big screen,” tions from our culture and experiences,” said Chicago to Patrik-Ian Polk’s film Blackbird. The feature for the opening night was Polk’s he said. “It’s an important story for us to see.” Richardson. “We are excited to support this film and much-anticipated film, Blackbird, based on a Polk also had words of advice for youth who BAFF is always on the lookout for sponsors BAFF,” said Galloway. “We look forward to see- novel of the same title by Larry Duplechan. are interested in breaking into the filmmaking and volunteers. David Dodd, director of com- ing what kinds of conversations [the film] will The film follows 17-year-old Randy Rousseau, industry. “Education is always key,” said Polk. munity engagement, expressed his apprecia- start surrounding youth being separated from played by newcomer Julian Walker, as he comes “It’s an art form like any other, so you really tion for those in attendance and gave advice their parents due to coming out as LGBT.” to terms with his sexuality in a conservative have to learn the craft of filmmaking.” for those interested next year. For more info, The film short, Hero Mars, explored the com- town in the heart of the Bible Belt. Big names As for the organization itself, “[BAFF] is by visit www.blackalphabet.org or email info@ plexities of gender non-conformity. Skyler Coo- in the film include Mo’Nique, Isaiah Washing- the community, for the community,” said Bren- blackalphabet.org. per, recently touted on a list as one of the top ton and Terrell Tillford. nikki Floyd, co-manager of marketing and fund-

tain on the show. Among Braugher’s competi- Film about adoption Emmy nods out; tors are gay actor Jesse Tyler Ferguson and Ty Burrell, both of Modern Family. ‘Orange’ gets 12, Schilling’s competition includes Lena Dun- premieres at Center ham (Girls), Edie Falco (Nurse Jackie), Julia and Laverne Cox Louis Dreyfus (Veep), Melissa McCarthy (Mike By Phillip-John Puzzo Check out www.asimplepieceofpaper.com to & Molly) and Amy Poehler (Parks & Recreation). learn more about Jean Strauss, the film and makes history The 2014 Emmy Awards nominations were Out actor Jim Parsons was once again nomi- Filmmaker Jean Strauss premiered her docu- adoption issues. nated for his role as Sheldon on the CBS com- mentary A Simple Piece of Paper—about Illi- announced July 10, and there was a lot of love for various TV series. edy The Big Bang Theory. “Theory” was also nois-born adoptees accessing their birth cer- nominated for Best Comedy Series; it will vie tificates—for the first time at the Center on The overall leader was HBO’s Game of Thrones, with 19 nominations, including Out- for the award against Louis, Modern Family, Or- Halsted this past week. ange Is the New Black, Silicon Valley and Veep. The Original Birth Certificate Access Bill, standing Drama Series and Outstanding Sup- porting Actress for Lena Headey. The new FX Interestingly, Neil Patrick Harris was not enacted in 2010, permits increased exchange nominated for his role as Barney Stinson on of information between biological families by the CBS comedy How I Met Your Mother, which Matt allowing adopted adults access to their origi- just concluded its final season. Bomer nal birth certificates without obtaining a court Best Drama Series nods went to Breaking (left) order. State Rep. Sara Feigenholtz (D-Chicago) Bad (which also finished its run this season), and Mark sponsored the bill; she worked for 14 years to Downton Abbey, Game of Thrones, House of Ruffalo pass the legislation into law so she and thou- Cards, Mad Men and True Detective. in The sands of other adoptees could legally request Also, lesbian actress Jane Lynch received two Normal their original birth certificates to learn more nods—but not for her role on Glee. She was Heart. about their identities. nominated for Outstanding Host For A Real- Photo In A Simple Piece of Paper, Strauss captures ity Or Reality-Competition Program for Holly- by Jojo the stories of twelve Illinois residents, in- wood Game Night. Lynch also received a nod Whilden cluding Feigenholtz, as they learn their given for Outstanding Narrator for the documentary names at birth, discover important medical Penguins: Waddle All The Way. history, and find their biological families. All The AIDS movie Normal Heart received sev- twelve adoptees featured were in attendance show Fargo (based on the movie) scored 18 nods, American Horror Story: Coven got 17 eral nominations, including Outstanding Cast- as well as several biological family members ing For A Miniseries, Movie or A Special; Out- located because the Original Birth Certificate nominations and NBC’s Saturday Night Live re- ceived 14 nominations. standing Television Movie; Outstanding Writing Access Bill was signed into law. For A Miniseries, Movie Or A Dramatic Special; Gov. Pat Quinn made a surprise appearance at Netflix darling Orange Is the New Black re- ceived 12 nods, including Best Comedy Series, and Outstanding Lead Actor In A Miniseries or the opening reception of the film to show his A Movie for Mark Ruffalo. Several supporting support for the law and congratulate Feigen- Best Actress in a Comedy Series for Taylor Schil- ling, and Best Supporting Actress in a Comedy actors received nominations, including Jim holtz on her work for Illinois-born adoptees. Parsons, Joe Mantello, Alfred Molina and Matt Coincidentally, Quinn signed more historic Series for Kate Mulgrew, who plays Red. Uzo Aduba and Laverne Cox also received nomina- Bomer; Julia Roberts got a supporting actress legislation at WGN Radio’s studio that very nod. morning; the new law gives adoptees access tions, making Cox the first transgender actress to be nominated for an Emmy award. The 66th Annual Primetime Emmys award to even more information about their medical ceremony will take place Monday, Aug. 25, at history and biological families. These two laws In another LGBT-related development, Andre Braugher was recognized once again for his Los Angeles’ Nokia Theatre. Seth Meyers will put Illinois at the forefront of a national move- host the event, which will air on NBC. ment calling for more transparency surrounding supporting role on the Fox comedy Brooklyn Illinois state Rep. Sara Feigenholtz at the Nine-Nine; Braugher plays a gay police cap- See www.Emmys.com. adoption. film event. Photo by Phillip-John Puzzo WINDY CITY TIMES July 16, 2014 21

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KIMPTON CHICAGO HOTELS PETTErINO’S Major Corporate Sponsor Corporate Sponsor Partners Production Support Media Partner Exclusive Airline of Goodman Theatre Preferred Hotel of Goodman Theatre Preferred Partner 22 July 16, 2014 WINDY CITY TIMES LC: I have been walking down the street in about doing the work and believing it. New York City and have heard cat calls when If there is not someone in the local commu- someone realized that I was trans, I was kicked nity, then there is somebody online to talk to Laverne Cox in the street once, I’ve been called a he-she, and get support. I’ve been called everything but a child of God, WCT: How are you handling such a busy actually! career? on ‘FREE CECE,’ kids In the past I have been verbally abused, held LC: I have a lot of gratitude and trying to just down, kicked and beaten. That has been a part be in my body and enjoy it. It is hard, though, and uniting LGBTs of my life so when I hear about a trans person because I am promoting season two of Orange experiencing a hardship then it’s palpable and Is the New Black and starting season three. WCT: Thanks for coming out to the Trans real. WCT: So there will be a season three? 100 event in Chicago. That meant a lot to When I heard about CeCe McDonald being a LC: I guess I just gave it away, yes! I am many people. mother figure for a lot of trans youth and re- shooting a documentary and writing a book. I LC: Oh my God—that is everything! I am try- fuses to be a victim. I got goose bumps just am very blessed just to be a Black trans woman ing to keep my schedule free so I can be there thinking about that. I love her and she is hav- on the cover of Time Magazine. next year. ing a hard time right now. WCT: How do you balance being an activist WCT: Do you have ideas for bringing the The story of FREE CECE is about her experi- with being an actor? whole LGBT community together? ences in the criminal justice system. LC: I’m not right now! [Laughs] There’s no LC: Oh honey, that’s a good question. That WCT: What advice do you have for trans balance in my life but I’m working on it. That’s was actually my theme for my keynote at the kids who are having a difficult time right a work in progress. I’ve had conversations with Trans 100 this year. How do we move past our now? my agent and advisors on where to find that own pain so that we can really love and accept LC: They can define themselves in terms of balance. There are offers coming up that help other people? Whenever I am having a prob- gender. We are not who other people say we me to do that. are, we are who we know ourselves to be. We Finding balance is something that I will let are what we love. That is okay and you are not you know when I do that! by Jerry Nunn alone in being who you are. There are people Visit www.lavernecox.com to keep up with out there who will love and support you. It is Cox’s projects. Laverne Cox has changed the world as the first openly transgender person on the cover of Time sues, including the Human Rights Campaign’s Magazine this past June. Portraying Sophia (HRC) Visibility Award in 2012. Burset on the Netflix series Orange Is the New Kinowerks Studio is renowned for its “clev- Black has brought her into the computers and erly sustainable design elements and the living rooms of people everywhere. best of green technology,” and is lined with Cox’s latest endeavor is a documentary cur- Wachowski artifacts, trophies and memora- rently in production called FREE CECE, in which bilia from their films. she interviews trans woman CeCe McDonald. All guests will get a comprehensive look McDonald was attacked in South Minneapolis, into trans issues with a full selection of Minnesota, and, in 2012, was sentenced to short films that address gender-related 41 years in prison for what many (including topics set to play beginning at 7 p.m. The McDonald) said was self-defense; she was re- films include I Am A Girl!, I’m Yours, Gender leased in January 2014. Games, Sisterhood, a trailer for MAJOR!, and On the eve of the Trans March in Canada for an exclusive sneak preview of Black is Blue. World Pride, Cox attended a question-and-an- Buy tickets for TransReelization online at swer session about the upcoming doc at the www.chicagohouse.org. TIFF Bell Lightbox in Toronto. Windy City Times caught up with Cox to learn about her bustling career as an actress and ac- Chris Colfer signs tivist. Windy City Times: Hey, Laverne. We have ‘Stories’ in Skokie Chris Colfer, who plays Kurt Hummel on talked on the phone before. the Fox television show Glee, brought tons Laverne Cox: Yes, I remember. I love Windy of fans to Barnes & Noble in Skokie over the City Times! weekend. WCT: Start off with talking about why it’s Second book in Supporting his latest book The Land of important to have transgender characters on Stories: A Grimm Warning the Golden Globe our screens. ‘Boystown’ series winner arrived on July 12 to meet over 300 LC: What has been so important about meet- released people waiting in line. At Anderson’s Book- ing people in the past year of Orange Is the Author Jake Biondi has released the sec- shop Naperville the night before, even more New Black is that folks are seeing themselves Laverne Cox. Photo by Jerry Nunn ond book of his Boystown series. Gleeks dropped in, with more than 500 at- in these characters, everyone, people from all The Boystown series began as an online tendees. Colfer was slated to be in L.A. this walks of life. lem—and I have been irritable a lot lately—it story released in installments, each ending week at The Grove’s Barnes & Noble. When we see ourselves in representation is because I don’t feel safe or I am in fear. If with a cliffhanger. Last November, the first Where was Hillary Clinton? Colfer recently in the media in affirming ways it affirms our I can slow down and realize I am in fight or 10 “episodes” were published in book form turned up at the former secretary of state’s identities and validates us in new and excit- flight mode that helps me from lashing out at as Boystown: Season One. book tour in L.A. to show his support for her. ing ways. It makes us feel less unknown. That a person. Boystown: Season Two is available at re- She has another chance, as the fourth book is what I have experienced. I can’t even tell I think people lash out because they are in tailers such as Chicago’s Unabridged Book- is expected to be published next year. you how many fans who have written me and trauma or afraid. We are trans people and the store as well at online at Amazon.com and Photos and text by Jerry Nunn I have had conversations with. People have world is not safe for us. The question is how iTunes. Readers may also order the books even started their transitions because of this can we create safe space for ourselves? I think directly from Biondi’s website, www.Jake- show. Can you believe that? They transitioned there are people in our lives who are toxic who Biondi.com. because of a TV show! People are transition- we need to get out of our lives. That is the ing and telling the truth about themselves to beginning and sometimes it’s hard to get out the people in their lives. Telling that truth is of those bad situations. We need to find more Wachowskis to deeply powerful and reminds me how important trans folks that will make us feel safe so we can the work of being an actor is. open studio to begin to love. Loving is something we have to WCT: There are so many trans stories now practice with each other in a safe space then in the media. What has driven this change? benefit TransLife we can begin to extend that. Andy and Lana Wachowski (the award-win- LC: Sometimes you just get tired of telling A huge part of it is that we shouldn’t police ning directors and producers of films such as lies to yourself and you have to tell yourself other people’s thoughts in the trans commu- Cloud Atlas, the Matrix series and V for Ven- the truth. I got to a point in my life where I nity. Someone may experience their identity as detta) are offering the chance to join them could no longer lie to myself. being trans in a specific way and that is valid at their private, 20,000-square-foot industri- I think the Internet is mobilizing us in a dif- but it is not about attacking someone because al movie production studio in Edgewater—all ferent way. I think people are finding safety they are not towing the line. There is not just to benefit Chicago House’s TransLife Center. online who identify as trans more to have a one way to be trans and that’s great actually! The inaugural event, “TransReelization: An voice there and the world beyond. I think the That’s a really cool thing. It gets tricky with Evening of Film at Kinowerks Studio,” will Internet has been a huge catalyst for bringing political agendas and policies but it shouldn’t give attendees the chance to enjoy cock- trans folks together across the country. There be. It should be a wonderful opportunity to tails, hors d’oeuvres, a silent auction and a are so many trans folks who I have interacted expand what it means to be men, women, in- selection of films at the Wachowskis’ studio with online then I will be in Chicago and I will between, both and neither. at 5645 N. Ravenswood Ave. see them. I may have just talked to them on- Lana herself identifies as transgender, and line or read something that they have written WCT: You are currently working on the film FREE CECE. How is the project personal to over recent years she’s accepted numerous so then we can interact with them in person awards for her work pertaining to trans is- Chris Colfer. Photo by Jerry Nunn finally. When we get together we have power. you? WINDY CITY TIMES July 16, 2014 23 BENT NIGHTS Taste of Chicago wrap-up: Monae, AWOLNATION and more BY VERN HESTER ‘Em What they Want” and brought the festival to a fever pitch. Even Emanuel could be seen The 34th Annual Taste of Chicago will go down shaking his ass in the audience, though it was in history as an artistic triumph, over all other a shame that he bolted before Monae acknowl- considerations. The crowds were thinner, the edged her icons with a saucy rip through James weather was erratic, the main stage attractions Brown’s “I Feel Good” and a frolicsome mash- were respectable if not stupendous, and Mayor up of The Jackson 5 nuggets “I Want You Back” Rahm Emanuel felt safe enough (politically, and “ABC.” at least) in popping up in the crowd to shake The July 11 “country night” brought the un- hands and look like a music lover. Although the expected surprise of sleepy-eyed Oklahoma na- sold-out crowds from last year did not materi- tive Parker Milsap’s hard twang and diamond- alize, this edition found a way to overwhelm on clear voice and he managed to enrapture a many levels, at least musically. small crowd who sat through his set in the The festival opened at the Petrillo Band Shell rain. If there was a martyr for this edition of on July 9 with Texas alternative rockers Saints the festival, Milsap was certainly it since the of Valory, who were tight and full of punch. 21-year-old is so naturally original and witty The headliner, AWOLNATION (particularly, he deserves to be heard by a far wider audi- frontman Aaron Bruno) was full of something ence. White-haired Emmylou Harris’ set was a else altogether. With his laser-blue eyes and perfect counterpoint to Milsap, with her trade- wispy blonde locks, Bruno roared through the mark musical subtly bordering on the vaporous. hits “It’s Not Your Fault” and “Kill Your Heroes” By the middle of Harris’ set, the drizzle had Taste of Chicago performers included (clockwise from upper left) Emmylou Harris, Parker with disarming fury while previewing new mu- turned to rain, which clearly had an effect on Milsap and Aaron Bruno of AWOLNATION. Photos by Vern Hester sic from an upcoming album. That Bruno kept Nickel Creek’s headlining set. This critic did not striking man-child poses reminiscent of Dwight stay for that set and the cranky weather caused Frye fresh from rehab made the show sweet, the cancellation of the festival for July 12. It nutty and entertainingly charming. was a bummer not to see Lucinda Williams in a The second night was packed with an entirely large setting or Jeff Tweedy on his home turf different kind of star power. Grammy-winning for a solo gig in front of a bunch of longtime blues rocker Gary Clark Jr. was so laid-back and fans, but the city could not be blamed for be- immersed in his groove that he hardly broke a ing cautious. sweat. His set was so articulate, nuanced and July 13, the final night of the festival, ended subversive that he managed to turn the open with a big thumping bass line. The Wailers per- air space of the band shell into a confined pris- formed its classic album Legends—recorded on cell of lust and desire with an inescapably with the late Bob Marley—and got the small disturbing intimacy. Then, headliner Janelle crowd on its feet. Headliner Aloe Blacc, front- Monae was wheeled out on a gurney wrapped ing an energetic and youthful band, ran with in a straitjacket—and went haywire. the sunny vibes and literally danced through Coming off of her Electric Lady Tour which his “Want to be With You,” and “The Answer started last fall, Monae roared through “Giving Is Love.” THIS SUMMER: OUTCHICAGO REDEFINE POSSIBLE TICKETS START AS LOW AS $15

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866.SKY.WNBA CHICAGOSKY.NET 24 July 16, 2014 WINDY CITY TIMES MUSIC Out singer Aiden James talks Whitney Houston and defying labels

BY TERRI-LYNNE WALDRON

Openly gay singer-songwriter Aiden James plays an acoustic guitar and wears his heart on his sleeve. But don’t give him the folk-singer label just because of it. The Philadelphia na- tive is the epitome of a one-man band with the ability to play 11 instruments and wrote, arranged, engineered, performed, produced and mixed his latest record Trouble With This. In advance of his Chicago appearance, the From left: Craig Loftis, Micah Salkind, Kristen Kaza, Shaun Wright and Maurice Chaytor. Photo indie artist spoke with Windy City Times about by Gretchen Rachel Blickensderfer signing with a major label, his Whitney Hous- ton connection and those sexy legs. Windy City Times: You are a self-contained artist and you play 11 instruments. What was it like creating music for your CD, Trou- Panel discusses ble With This, all by yourself? Aiden James: Normally, when you go into making a record the band would just play impact and future their own instruments. As a singer-songwriter I write it, I arrange the music, produce and engineer it and perform the instruments. With of house music the previous records that I had out, I decided that I wasn’t going to hire a producer or an By Gretchen Rachel Blickensderfer ever played,” Kaza said in reference to Hous- engineer because those were just ridiculously ton’s 1992 hit. “It changes the way people in- expensive and I felt like I was just putting The art, jewelry and accessories of The Silver teract. It’s why I love being part of the music their kids through college. [Laughs] I’m super- Room in Wicker Park serve to make the entire community, because it is a collective experi- computer-savvy and a friend of mine in Los space one of daring and limitless expression ence.” Angeles who produces music said, “Aiden, you that pays no heed to a more conservative rule- “One thing we can walk away from here is are really handy with computers and you’re book. It was thus the perfect venue for a July that we’ve all been very fortune to be part of a super-smart. You should get a copy of Logic 10 discussion about the impact and future of social medium was born in a gay environment,” [music-production software]. You have the ear, Aiden James. Photo by Jeremy Lucido house music. Chaytor said. “Its rhythms were celebrated you can write and arrange.” I learned a couple Entitled “Old School/Future Classics,” the within the gay community and it became both of production tricks on YouTube and from all event formed a part of the Illinois Humanities a culture and a sub-culture.” my experience in the studio creatively, every- remembered we had lost this artist. When I was Council’s “We The People” series and was co- “We don’t always remember, but house music thing just started to click. growing up as a kid, I spent a lot of time in presented by the Silver Room’s 12th Annual started as people defying genre. It was non- WCT: What is the next musical project you my aunt’s hair shop. Whenever the song would Sound System Block Party, the Center on Hal- commercial,” Salkind added. have on the horizon? come on the radio I would always grab a hair- sted and Slo ‘Mo: Slow Jams for Homos (and But what of its future? The panel discussed AJ: I’m working on another single that’s com- brush and run to the back of the salon where their Fans). the fact that it is much harder for LGBTQ teens ing out this month called “Last Reminder.” All the shampoo bowls were, and I would put on Born in Chicago 30 years ago at legendary to follow the covert footsteps of the ‘70s and the singles for Trouble With This have already a show for all the old ladies that were there. venues such as The Warehouse and The Music ‘80s generation into nightclubs and there are come out. This is a new song that I co-wrote I had a connection with the song growing up Box through the groundbreaking work of iconic fewer age-appropriate safe-space venues avail- with a friend of mine who wrote “Dirrty” for and that night on the radio—since I just found names like the late Frankie Knuckles, Alan King, able to them. “Are there spaces today where Christina [Aguilera] and “Miss Independent” out that we had just lost Whitney—I did this Wayne Williams and Ron Hardy, house music be- a 15- or 16-year-old young gay person can for Kelly Clarkson. This is a song I’m going to tribute. After that I got a really good response came the art form in which a community found dance with their friends in public?” Salkind release just to have a song out for the summer. with people calling in and so I released it on freedom. Gay kids who would sneak into clubs wondered.”And if not, what do they have to I’m recording a new album for the fall. iTunes. in the earliest days of the genre were at liberty help them create a musical culture like House?” WCT: You have talked in the past about WCT: Whose sexy legs are those on the to express themselves and become empowered “Back in the ‘70s, people weren’t checking the possibility of signing with a major label. promotional photo for “I Wanna Dance With in music that eclipsed race, orientation, gender IDs and the clubs didn’t get into as much trou- What are your thoughts on that now? Somebody?” and eventually international boundaries. ble as they get into now,” Loftis answered. AJ: I would do it—if the deal was right and AJ: Those are mine. The Silver Room audience who took every However, both the audience and the panel- there was good management and everybody WCT: Did your Tang Soo Do Korean Martial available seat for the evening panel perfectly ists agreed that there are still outlets for LG- was on board. Arts training help you develop those mus- complimented the uniting force behind house BTQ youth. Gay-straight alliances and Chicago WCT: You are openly gay. How would you cles in your legs? music. There was no racial, sexual or gender Public Schools employees have been organiz- handle someone who told you that you AJ: I work out. [Laughs] Don’t get me wrong, majority to be found among them as they en- ing gay proms, and social media has brought should hide your sexuality if you wanted to but my martial-arts background totally helps thusiastically traded memories and opinions people together in a unique way. sign with a major label? with that. It’s a lot of lighting and I am oiled with a panel that included Maurice “Judge” “I’m not a big Facebook user,” one audience AJ: I would tell them that maybe they should up. I’ve gotten a lot of marriage proposals off Chaytor, a five-year assistant to Knuckles and member noted. “But every single day I get at crawl out from under the rock they’ve been liv- of that. a director at the Modern Dance Music Research least a half-dozen tracks to listen to. In today’s ing under. Aiden James will perform at Uncommon and Archiving Foundation; Kristen Kaza, the social networking world, kids have a broader WCT: You have said that you don’t like be- Ground, 1401 W. Devon Ave., on Saturday, creator and host of Slo ‘Mo; innovative sound opportunity to explore their music. They may ing labelled a folk singer. What do you con- July 19. Visit www.uncommonground.com or engineer and DJ Craig Loftis; dancer, vocalist not have a club that they can go dancing to sider your musical style to be? www.aidenjamesmusic.com. DJ and producer Shaun J. Wright; and Brown as a community, but they are sharing it online AJ: First and foremost, I’m a singer-songwrit- University Ph.D. candidate Micah Salkind— and forming their own groups.” er and I write catchy love songs. A lot of times Indigo Girls who was also a part of the panel at the Out Shaun Wright developed his extraordinary I feel that if you play the guitar—and you are at CHM discussion on house music earlier in talent for dance while watching others vogue a singer-songwriter—you get mislabeled as joining Nettles the year. in the modern ballroom scene. He believes that “folk,” and a lot of times people compare me The panelists had brought along tracks that there are further opportunities for young peo- to Matt Nathanson. I feel that you can write Aug. 29 in Aurora were personal to them and helped shape their ple in the uncommon energy of the ballroom a catchy love song and play the guitar, but I Amy Ray and Emily Saliers—a.k.a. the Indigo own perceptions of the genre. Frankie Knuckle’s culture to find inspiration much as he did. also use synthesizers in my live shows. I would Girls—have joined the Chicago-area stop of “The Whistle Song,” Hercules and Love Affair’s There was a great deal of discussion about not consider myself folk, I would consider Bob the That Girl Tour which includes singer/song- 2008 hit “Blind,” Whitney Houston’s cover of the rise of hip-hop. Dylan folk. writer Brandy Clark and headliner Sugarland’s Chaka Khan’s “I’m Every Woman” and Beyonce’s “Right now—in this culture—I’ve witnessed WCT: You recorded a remake of Whitney Jennifer Nettles. “Flawless,” to name a few, were brough; each a transformation where hip-hop came in and Houston’s “I Wanna Dance With Somebody.” The That Girl Tour plays RiverEdge Park, 360 selection spurred as much nostalgia as it did just took over,” Loftis noted. “I’m not a hip- Why did you cover that song? N. Broadway, Aurora, on Friday, Aug. 29. The debate. hop fan but I try to keep an open mind to its AJ: Whitney Houston and I share a birthday. park opens at 5:30 p.m. Brandy Clark takes the “The way people react to that song—when- generation because it is the music of their I was driving back from Washington, D.C., to stage at 7 p.m., followed by the Indigo Girls at ever they hear it—is like no other song I’ve time; of their coming out.” do a radio interview on NPR in Philadelphia 7:45 p.m. and Jennifer Nettles at 9 p.m. and it was the night of the Grammys, and I Tickets are $40; visit RiverEdgeAurora.com. WINDY CITY TIMES July 16, 2014 25 ter, was riding in his second Ride for Team CUR too—with an orange bandana wrapped around his left wrist and an orange flag waving mounted to his bicycle, both to symbolize he is HIV-positive. “It’s an amazing event. The camaraderie, the community [and] the fellowship is incredible,” Cairo said. “The first two years after I was di- agnosed [HIV-positive], it was very difficult to tell people that I was positive. I’ve now been diagnosed for about six years, and now it’s gotten better because I’ve been around people who tell me that it’s OK to positive. “Now I do this [ride] for other people. “When people get diagnosed [as HIV-posi- tive], we have to remember that it’s hard, that it sucks, but it will eventually get better. We have to feel our pain in order to be able to rise above it.” To pay tribute to all those who supported Cairo’s fundraising for the cause, he laced a long red ribbon on his bicycle—always within Cyclists at the Ride for AIDS Chicago. Photo by Ross Forman eye sight—with their names hand-written on it. “When we were riding up those [challeng- known about TPAN and been a part of it since ing] hills, I remembered those people [whose History made, honored 1994. I’ve lost two uncles to HIV/AIDS, plus names were on that red ribbon] and the dona- a very close friend last year … so yeah, this tions they made. It was as if we were doing it really is a great event, and it just continues to together. grow and get better and better.” “That was a highlight of the 2014 Ride.” at Ride for AIDS Chicago Keith Stryker, 42, who lives in Edgewater, Nancy M. Abbate, who has been the TPAN rode in his fourth Ride For AIDS Chicago as part By Ross Forman emony was “one of the more powerful memo- interim executive director since mid-March, of Team CUR (Chicago Urban Riders) and had ries,” Cordova said. “And that’s why we’re said at the closing ceremony that the Ride is his No. 1 cheerleader in one of his team’s first- The 11th annual Ride for AIDS Chicago was a here—to change the conversation about HIV, “very inspiring, and it makes me think that the time crew members: his mom, Marge Mayo, who record-setting, celebrity-filled, legacy-driven to provide a world where people don’t have to greater Chicagoland area needs to hear about came from Florida just for the Ride. two-day extravaganza that culminated Sunday be afraid to be HIV-positive. this event and know that it happens—and they “The Ride gets better every year, and this afternoon, July 13, under hot, sunny skies in “To me, [Rob Campbell] kind of sums up one have to get involved.” year really was fantastic; it’s amazing,” Stryker Evanston. of the reasons why we’re here.” When asked if she would ride in the 2015 said. “I loved seeing my mom have the time of The bicycle ride, which supports the Test Tony Torres, an HIV-positive rider, was hon- event, she smiled and admitted, “I’m not really her life, meeting my team members, my friends, Positive Aware Network (TPAN), raised about ored at the closing ceremony for his longtime good at riding a bike.” She quickly added that and being part of something that is very per- $840,000; organizers predict that total will hit commitment to the Ride. He was presented “maybe” she’d be part of the 2015 crew. sonal to me because I am HIV-positive.” $850,000 by the end of July—and the total with the annual Paul Cantrell Commitment Daniel K. Cairo, 32, who lives in Edgewa- was about $60,000 more than last year. Award. There were 330 registered riders; about 275 Just as committed to the cause is Ariel Re- participated in the two-day ride—also was a boyras (30th ward alderman), 60, who was rid- record number. There was also a record-break- ing in the event for the 10th time. Climb cancelled, but ing number of supporting crew members, which “As tough as [the Ride] is, it makes a dif- had more than 110 members. ference,” Reboyras said. “It’s a worthy cause; “The ride was amazing,” said Richard Cor- that’s how I look at it. We all know someone charitable causes still win dova, TPAN’s director of athletic events. “This who has been inflicted,” with HIV/AIDS. By Ross Forman mountain in the world at 29,029 feet above event for me is about fundraising, production Reboyras said he plans to ride again in 2015. sea level—would have taken about 65 days. “It was awesome to see all of the riders and Despite not climbing Mt. Everest as part of “It’s not an easy mountain [to climb] and crew, especially the Positive Pedalers, which his Everest 4 Equality drive to raise aware- Mother Nature is clearly in charge,” he said. was an inspiration,” Sean Lewis, the WGN-TV ness for marriage equality and LGBT rights, “When that [avalanche] happened, it really broadcaster who was the master of ceremony at Joe Rudy made a considerable donation to smacks you in the face.” the closing ceremony, said of the group of HIV- both of his charitable causes: Equality Illi- positive riders and crew members, most wear- nois and the Human Rights Campaign (HRC). ing orange to signify their HIV status. Rudy, who will turn 28 on Aug. 13, was The Positive Pedalers’ procession at the planning to climb to the top of Everest earli- opening and closing ceremony “celebrates the er this year, via the north ridge route—which HIV-positive riders and crew members, Cordova is considered one of the most physically and said. mentally demanding challenges in the world. Meanwhile, the always-tear-filled riderless Ultimately, he did not attempt the climb bike procession is an opportunity “to honor due to multiple factors, starting with a hor- those who have died from the disease,” Cordo- rific tragedy in April, when an avalanche va said. Several riders and crew members who claimed the lives of 16 climbers. All expedi- have had family or close friends die from the tions this season to Mt. Everest have been disease pushed the riderless bicycle. canceled out of respect for the families of The closing ceremony also featured two large the deceased. Joe Rudy (left) and partner Robby Shields. sections of the vintage AIDS quilt, the first Also, Rudy was short of his $100,000 Photo from Rudy time it has been on display at the Ride. fundraising goal, of which $30,000 would The quilt, Cordova said, “is a really important have supported the climb and the remaining Rudy said that, despite falling short of his part of the history of the pandemic. We’re really $70,000 given to charity. fundraising goal, he definitely helped with honored to have it on display. The quilt really Still, Rudy sent $13,000 donation checks exposure for his charities and their mission, puts into perspective why we’re here.” to both Equality Illinois and HRC. particularly, LGBT rights and equality. Thus, Kelly Southard rode the event for her late “I have had the chance to meet a ton he said, “it definitely was a success.” cousin, Scott, who died from the disease. Debby Rijos, one of the riders. Photo by Ross of great, incredible people—and I’m really Rudy said he will continue hiking, but is Jeff Berry and Rodney Becker also each had Forman grateful for that,” said Rudy, who is openly uncertain of his next adventure. Plus, he’s direct, personal reasons for participating in the gay, partnered, and a Chicago resident. “I re- smiling at the thought of relaxing from the 2014 Ride—through deaths from the disease. ceived help from people I never would have intense training needed for such a hike, and experience—and across the board, we Alex Perez, the ABC-TV broadcaster based in expected to receive help from, including ad- which can span up to a year. “I’m enjoying topped last year [in those areas]. I feel good, Chicago, also was one of the 2014 Riders. vice, direction and support, be it emotional not having as much of a physical schedule,” no complaints.” “The Ride was great … I survived,” said Rich- or financial. he said. There are lasting memories, however, such as ard Dumbrique, 25, who lives in Rogers Park “I’ve learned an incredible amount in the “I don’t know if I’m going to give the big from the opening ceremony, held early Satur- and was riding in the event for the second con- process.” one, Everest, a shot ever again. I’m not sure; day morning, July 12, also in Evanston. Rob secutive year. “I was more prepared than last The avalanche, on April 18, occurred near it’s just such a huge commitment in so many Campbell, for instance, shared his personal sto- year; I knew what to expect.” Everest Base Camp, killing 16 Nepalese ways,” he added. “I’m not going to quit ry of being an HIV-positive rider. He came out Debby Rijos, 46, who lives in the West Loop, guides. Rudy was to have started his climb in climbing; it’s just what am I going to set my about his status, first to Cordova and then the was a crew member for Team Fred—and deter- May and the hike up Mt. Everest—the tallest sights on next [is undetermined].” rest of the participants, during the 2013 Ride. mined to ride in the 2015 event. Campbell’s speech at the 2014 opening cer- “It was great, very rewarding,” she said. “I’ve 26 July 16, 2014 WINDY CITY TIMES SPONSORED BY WEEKLY DINING GUIDE IN theDISH Modern Asian Kitchen; Terrace on Clark

BY andrew davis

Contemporary concerns are definitely addressed at Modern Asian Kitchen (MAK) (1924 W. Divi- sion St.; http://www.makrestaurant.com/). The meats are raised naturally—free of an- tibiotics, hormones and steroids; other items, Images from such as poultry, are bought locally when pos- Terrace on sible. Also, no MSG is used in the items, and Clark. Photos Above: Tommy Wang of Modern Asian Kitch- there are gluten-free offerings. by Andrew en (MAK). Below: Images from MAK. Photos Of course, MY concern at this cozy spot is Davis if the food is taste-free. I had flashbacks to a by Andrew Davis vegan restaurant I went to several years ago. Everything tasted like cardboard. Thankfully, it isn’t. Among the tastiest items are Chicken Wangs (named after the owner) and General MAK chicken or shrimp (which sport a tangy glaze). Val Kosenko has a relaxed (and relaxing) air other large businesses. However, you and mix-and-match so many about him, which definitely helps him run the As for the food, it’s falls into the “above- things with your orders, including multiple three-month-old Terrace on Clark (77 W. Wack- average bar food” category, for the most part. veggie sides, such as bean sprouts or pickled er Dr.; http://www.terraceonclark.com/). The tempura-fried vegetable medley was not daikon; and substituting tofu or veggie falafel Your name not on the book even though a exactly a hit for us. However, the Terrace “fish for a protein. reservation was made in your name? No prob- and chips”—fresh cod poached in beer with Owner Tommy Wang—a friendly, telegenic lem. No meat in the steak quesadillas you or- homemade potato chips—converted my friend, soul—said that all he wants to offer is a “sim- dered? No problem. who’s not the biggest fish eater. The farmhouse ple, concise menu.” So far, so good: While MAK Kosenko believes in cultivating relationships burger (complete with sunny-side-up egg) was isn’t overflowing with options, it overall does a with customers, even saying he treats them also more than satisfying. more-than-solid job with what it has. like family—even to the point of providing free As for the terrace, it’s beautiful and, no Also, two other notes: MAK now serves alco- things on occasion. doubt, lots of people will sit out there to enjoy hol, and I will forever remember this restaurant I’m discussing Kosenko because Terrace is their fare. And, as Kosenko put it, the setting for no other reason that the chork—a chop- pretty laid-back itself, even though it’s in a will stay until the weather turns cold: “It could stick/fork combination that is sheer genius. stately Loop building that houses law firms and be Sept. 1; it could be November.”

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windy city times 2014-2015 theatre eries SOME MEN By Terence McNally WEDNESDAY/THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 10 OR 11 80%60% PRIDE FILMS AND PLAYS AT RIVENDELL THEATRE Over thirty characters transport audiences through 70 years of gay history in America. SOLDSOLD MY NAME IS ASHER LEV By Aaron Posner FRIDAY, OCTOBER 3 TIMELINE THEATRE COMPANY AT STAGE 773 CHICAGO PREMIERE! Outer Circle Critics Award for Best New Off-Broadway Play! TITANIC Music & Lyrics by Maury Yeston / Book by Peter Stone THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 6 GRIFFIN THEATRE AT THEATER WIT CHICAGO PREMIERE! Experience this Tony Award Winning musical in an intimate chamber-style revival. PRINCESS MARY DEMANDS YOUR ATTENTION By Aaron Holland WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 28 BAILIWICK CHICAGO AT VICTORY GARDENS RICHARD CHRISTIANSEN THEATER WORLD PREMIERE! A Southern agoraphobic, black gay boy on a journey to release his true self, with a little help from the apparition of a Big, Beautiful Drag Queen. MR BURNS, A POST ELECTRIC PLAY By Anne Washburn WEDNESDAY, MARCH 4 THEATER WIT CHICAGO PREMIERE! A hilarious exploration of how the pop culture of one era, through the resilience of Bart Simpson, might evolve into the mythology of another. “Downright Brilliant.” – New York Times MARIE ANTOINETTE By David Adjmi FRIDAY, APRIL 3 STEPPENWOLF THEATRE CHICAGO PREMIERE! Before Britney Spears and Justin Bieber, there was Marie Antoinette. She liked to party, loved fashion, and lost her head in the revolution…literally. A FUNNY THING HAPPENED on the WAY to the FORUM Music & Lyrics by Stephen Sondheim/Book by Burt Shevelove & Larry Gelbart THURSDAY, APRIL 30 PORCHLIGHT MUSIC THEATRE AT STAGE 773 Winner of 5 Tony Awards, Sondheim’s musical farce comes to Porchlight for a little “Comedy Tonight.” VANYA and SONIA and MASHA and SPIKE By Christopher Durang SATURDAY, JUNE 20 GOODMAN THEATRE CHICAGO PREMIERE! Durang’s hilarious Tony Award Winner for Best Play

$265 for ALL 8 SHOWS! EMAIL [email protected] FOR AN ORDER FORM Shows, locations, dates/times subject to change. No requests for alternate dates will be guaranteed. 28 July 16, 2014 WINDY CITY TIMES

laughter-proof foundation, romance, trag- Robyn Showcase Featuring music and video edy and betrayal. $15 at the door. $10 at from Robyn and electronic superstars of Brownpaperticket.com 8:00pm The Call Scandinavia with DJ Greg Haus. 10:00pm (Chicago) 1547 W Bryn Mawr - 4:00am Berlin Nightclub 954 W Bel- CALENDAR Woody Sez: The Life and Music of Woody mont Ave., http://www.berlinchicago. Guthrie Woody Sez is a joyous, toe-tap- com ping, and moving theatrical concert event Brought to you by the that uses Woody Guthrie’s words, and over Tuesday, July 22 combined efforts of 25 of his songs to transport the audience Chicago Gay Men’s Chorus: Some Like through his fascinating, beautiful, and it Hot—The Music of Disney CGMC’s sometimes tragic life. 8:00pm The Acorn fundraising cabaret, features members Wed., July 16 burlesque’s heyday 7:00pm Landmark Theater 107 Generations Dr. Three Oaks, of Chicago Gay Men’s Chorus heating up PFLAG Chicago Monthly Meeting Parents, Century Centre Cinemas Renaissance Place Michigan, 49107 269-756-3879 http:// your summer with our take on the music Family members, Friends of Lesbians and Cinema 2828 N. Clark St. Tickets: http:// www.acorntheater.com of Disney! Enjoy the happiest music on Gays (PFLAG) has support groups and landmarktheatres.com/Market/Chicago/ Mr. Midwest Rubber 2014 Welcome Party ‘HOT’ STUFF Earth, done with our own special twist. educational speakers. We engage in ad- ChicagoInfo.htm Kick off Mr. Midwest Rubber weekend with 7:30pm Mayslake Peabody Estate 1717 vocacy activities. Monthly on the third the roast of MWR 2013 Jesse Driscoll. Tuesday, July 22 W. 31st Street Oak Brook, IL 60523 Tick- Wednesday. Call 630-415-0622 or email Thursday, July 17 10:00pm - 4:00am Touche 6412 N Clark ets: http://www.cgmc.org the Metro Chicago South Chapter: pflag- Prime Timers Midwest Regional Event Chi- St., http://www.touchechicago.com The Chicago Gay Men’s metrochicagosouthside@pflagillinois. cago Prime Timers are hosting the Prime Geeks Out: A Gay Geek Variety Show Fea- Chorus will take on the Wed., July 23 org or contact Keith McCoy at kmccoy@ Timers Midwest Regional Event, four days turing drag, burlesque, variety, vocals of Miss Gay Illinois America Pageant Theme: of exciting events. Great hotel rates. Reg- music of Disney in “Some windycityblackpride.org or Peter Ji at pji- comic books, sci/fantasy movies/tv and Like It Hot.” Intergalactic. Closed state pageant. Win- [email protected]. 11:00am - 1:00pm istration $209 till July 2014 then $219. video games. Presented by Nightcaps and ner $3,025.00 in cash and prizes, runners Affinity Community Services 5650 S. 10:00am Crowne Plaza Metro Hotel 733 Geeks Out Chicago. 10:00pm - 4:00am Photo by Ed Negron up also win cash and prizes. 12:00pm Woodlawn Ave Garden Level http://pfla- W Madison St 872-216-4278 http://www. Berlin Nightclub 954 W Belmont Ave., Ramada Ballroom 6900 N. Illinois Fair- gillinois.org chicagoprimetimers.org http://www.berlinchicago.com view Heights, IL 62208 314-484-5580 Make Art Space View youth-created art- Affinity Trans Focus Group Monthly on the http://www.missgayamerica.com/prelimi- work, explore family-centered conversa- third Thursday. Info: affinitytransfocus- Saturday, July 19 naries/Illinois.htm tions about sexuality, and eat. Part of the [email protected] 7:00pm - 9:00pm 11th Annual Disability Pride Parade! To 21st Annual Gwendolyn Brooks Open Mic museum’s Porch Project, a summer-long Affinity Community Services 1424 E. 53rd change the way people think about and athletes in the Chicago and surrounding Award Renowned Chicago poet Gwendolyn effort to reanimate porches, stoops and St. Suite 306 http://affinity95.org define “disability”, a natural and beautiful areas to honor and celebrate the LGBT Brooks and the Guild Literary Complex sidewalks throughout the city. 3:00pm The About Face Youth Theatre: Checking part of human diversity in which people community. Hors d’oeuvres, cocktails, $500 poetry award 21 years ago for Illi- - 4:00pm Jane Addams Hull House Boxes Original play devised by the About living with disabilities can take pride. raffle prizes, giveaways, live music. Reser- nois poets for a written work read aloud. UIC Campus, 800 S. Halsted St, Chicago Face Youth Theatre, exploring the often Info via [email protected] vations [email protected] 5:00pm Celebrate the robust poetry community of http://stoppna.org/ overlooked intersection between immigra- 10:00 a.m., 866-260-5812 http://www. - 7:00pm The Call (Chicago) 1547 W written and spoken word and commemo- GLAAD Chicago Reception with GLAAD tion and the LGBTQIA experience. Talented disabilityprideparade.org Bryn Mawr rate Brooks’ legacy in cultivating emerg- President Sarah Kate Ellis RSVP re- young artists share experiences of coming Sheffield Garden Walk & Music Festival Aiden James The out singer is touring in ing voices. 7:00pm - 9:00pm Chopin quired to http://www.glaad.org/LC-SKE out, growing up and pursuing the Ameri- More than 80 of the neighborhood’s lush advance of his new single coming out this Theatre, 1543 W. Division St., http:// (space limited). 5:00pm - 7:30pm can Dream. In association with the Chi- residential gardens will again be open for summer. $8 at door. Reservation available www.guildcomplex.org MillerCoors, 250 S. Wacker Drive, 16th cago Park District’s Night Out in the Parks the public to explore. There are both self- by phone. All ages. Doors 8:30p. 9:00pm Floor, https://www.facebook.com/ initiative, through Aug. 1. 7:00pm Parks guided garden tours, and guided architec- - 10:30pm Uncommon Ground on Dev- Saturday, July 26 events/736860033042031/ across the City http://www.aboutfacethe- ture tours. Partnering with Chicago Craft on 1401 W Devon Ave., 773-485-9801 An Evening of Magic to Support AIDS Trans Youth Resources and Advocacy atre.com Beer Festival. 12:00pm - 2:00pm Shef- http://www.uncommonground.com Foundation of Chicago Magic show to Youth Drop-In Center Every Wednesday, Newtown Writers Chicagoland’s premiere field Ave. between Webster & Fullerton, support AIDS Foundation of Chicago. A LGBT (homophile) writing workshop. For safe, confidential place for transgender Chicago Tickets: http://chicagoevents. Sunday, July 20 full evening engagement and the first people between the ages of 14 to 24. Meet more info contact Barry, barryfrauman@ com/event.cfm?eid=255 2nd Annual Salsa/Dip Contest to Benefit professional magic show to be staged in other youth who also identify as transgen- gmail.com or 773-528-3637. 7:30pm Fitness training Chicago Gay Hockey As- Care For Real The SoFo Tap and Care for Boystown. This magic show is the perfect der, or are questioning their gender iden- Contact organizer for location sociation off-ice workout training classes Real are pleased to present their second way to kick off your night in Boystown tity. Free food, snacks and refreshments, every Saturday each week. Free to mem- annual Charity Salsa/Dip contest. For with a theatric show full of comedy, inex- music, peer support, adult supervision, re- Friday, July 18 bers. $5 for non-members 1:00pm Ur- a minimum donation of $10, you get to plicable magic, and mystery that will send ferrals and education. 5:00pm - 7:00pm Million Dollar Quartet Cast members from ban Athlete, 4437 N. Ravenswood Ave., sample all the salsas and dips and vote you home deeply enchanted. 7:30pm - Broadway Youth Center 615 W Wellington Million Dollar Quartet, Chicago’s longest- http://chicagogayhockey.org/calendar/ the the winner. Got a great recipe for a 9:00pm United States http://magical. Ave http://www.genderadvocates.org/ running Broadway musical currently run- Havana in Chicago We’ll transform a cor- dip or salsa? Sign up to compete (and brownpapertickets.com/ Tickets: http:// Tyra/TYRADropIn.html ning at the Apollo Theater, appear at the ner of Chicago into a slice of Havana to bring your friends so they can vote for magical.brownpapertickets.com/ The Nance, starring Nathan Lane Nathan Library for a special mini-performance and benefit the selfless work of First Hand Aid you). Email mike@worldsgreatestbar. Lane stars. In the 1930s, burlesque impre- post-performance conversation. 12:15pm whose volunteers deliver medical supplies com to enter. One salsa or dip per entry. sarios welcomed the hilarious comics and Cindy Pritzker Auditorium Harold Wash- to the people of Cuba … in person. Cuban Limited to 10 contestants. Prizes for best musical parodies of vaudeville to their de- ington Library 400 S State St, Plymouth music, Cuban buffet, raffle. $50. 4:00pm tasting salsa/dip and most original salsa/ cidedly lowbrow niche. A headliner called Court entrance http://www.chipublib.org - 8:00pm Sidetrack 3349 N Halsted St dip. We’ll supply the tortilla chips for dip- “the nance” was a stereotypically camp Stale Magnolias In a world where affluent http://firsthandaid.org/purchase-tickets pin’ (courtesy of Crew Bar + Grill). You homosexual and master of comic double southern ladies in a small southern town Proud to Play LGBT Sports Open House just bring your A game! 1:00pm - 3:00pm entendre - usually played by a straight in the deep south congregate in a run- Frontrunner/Frontwalkers Chicago and The Sofo Tap 4923 N Clark St., http:// man. Douglas Carter Beane’s THE NANCE down tailor-come-southern-beauty parlor, the Orthopaedics Center at the U of Chi- www.thesofotap.com recreates the naughty, raucous world of six women will share friendship, love and cago Medicine, fun and free event for GBT

BOOK REVIEW rolled at Stanford University, where she ma- Sherr also gives readers a good sense of Ride jored in physics. as a person, rather than the heroine that his- Sally Ride: It was there that she fell in love, then fell in tory tends to offer. For that, I was glad: it’s al- America’s First love again when the first relationship fizzled ways nice to perceive those we hold in esteem Woman in Space due to distance. It was also at Stanford where as human, so reading of Ride’s overwhelmingly by Lynn Sherr Ride, who had always assumed that NASA by-the-book, reticent nature was welcome, al- $28; Simon & Schuster; would forever be off-limits to her, first learned most comforting. that America’s space program was recruiting This is a personable book that doesn’t seem 376 pages women. quite as shocking as I’m sure it might have by TERRI SCHLICHENMEYER She applied. A few months later, she inter- been once—but it’s still enjoyable and, for fol- viewed and tested and, after training and not lowers of the space program, LGBT issues, and And the cow jumped over the moon. just a few faux pas from NASA, was ultimate- dreamers alike, it’s a must-read. For you, Sally You spent many years wondering if that were ly, famously chosen to be the first American Ride: America’s First Woman in Space will send possible, although countless nursery rhyme woman in space. Ride’s life as she knew it had you over the moon. books said it was so. Yes, a human could surely changed forever. Want more? Then look for To Space and Back, go there, but a bovine? But what about the people who were close by Sally Ride and Susan Okie; or Swim: Why We Eventually, you learned the truth: men and to Ride? Author Lynn Sherr believed that she Love the Water, by Lynn Sherr. women can overcome gravity, but cows stay was; she and Ride had been friends for years. grounded. And in the new book Sally Ride: Just days after Ride’s death, though, Sherr and America’s First Woman in Space, by Lynn Sherr, the world learned that Ride had hidden a major Sports open you’ll learn some truths that weren’t so widely part of herself by keeping secret a committed known. 27-year same-sex relationship. house July 19 Born at the end of May 1951—at a time Frontrunners/Frontwalkers Chicago and the In her introduction to Sally Ride: America’s when girls were usually directed toward do- Orthopaedics Center at The University of Chica- First Woman in Space, Sherr explains how this mestic interests—Ride was raised in a Califor- go Medicine have teamed to host a free event book came about: her years of knowing (but nia household that was supportive of off-the- boys’ interest: she would “devote” herself to for LGBT athletes in Chicagoland. not-quite-knowing) Sally Ride and the shock beaten-path lives. The Ride girls (Sally had a science. It was tennis, however, that took her The event will take place Saturday, July 19, of learning a “private” truth. She also writes younger sister) never heard “I love you,” but to college in Philadelphia; her game was near- 5-7 p.m., at The Call, 1547 W. Bryn Mawr Ave. about the cultural atmosphere in which Ride they were encouraged to happily find their own pro-quality, although she knew she lacked the There will be hors d’oeuvres, cocktails, raffle accomplished her greatest dream, the space interests. discipline needed to play professionally. With program and NASA, and the additional issues prizes, giveaways, live music and more. Email In this atmosphere, strong-willed Ride grew that in mind, Ride headed back west and en- to which Ride devoted her life. [email protected] to RSVP. to desire what was then considered to be a WINDY CITY TIMES July 16, 2014 29 BILLY MASTERS

“His coming-out was followed by a marriage. My marriage was followed by a coming-out.”— Arianna Huffington quips after being brought onstage by Neil Patrick Harris at the recent NYC TrevorLIVE. Arianna was being honored with the Trevor Hero Award—presumably because she was married to a gay man and wrote a bi- ography about Maria Callas. My critique of a work is often confused with my feelings about the people involved. I al- ways try to separate the two, but often people can’t always tell the difference. I found myself in a potentially awkward situation when I went to see Cheyenne Jackson over the Fourth of July at the Provincetown Art House. (He was so good, he’ll be back Labor Day weekend.) As I made my way into the theater, I discovered that I was seated next to Ryan Murphy and Billy believes that Rosie O’Donnell’s return his hubby, David Miller. We’d previously met in to The View is a good thing. Photo courtesy several social and unmemorable ways, so we of Image.net exchanged a quick hello and then the show began. Afterward, I turned to them and said, weeks—I’ve been comfortable telling the clos- “Aren’t congratulations in order? Isn’t your est people around me exactly that.” anniversary today or yesterday?” Ryan smiled Speculation that Ian was gay started when and said, “Today—how did you know?” Well, I he was 16 years old. Apparently, not only was was with them on their wedding day two years he not sexually active, but it didn’t occur to ago. They had a lovely afternoon ceremony and him that he might be gay. So he denied it. then went to see Patti LuPone—I was sitting Problem was, as he grew up and began to real- close by that night, too. My congratulations ize that he was gay, he had an issue—he had led to some pleasant chit-chat before we went denied it so often in public (and, apparently, our separate ways—but not without putting a to himself), he felt that if he suddenly came friendly face on my often caustic wit. Happy out, people would question what else was a lie. anniversary, guys. Now, at 31, he feels differently. “I am telling The Crown & Anchor is the center of Provinc- the world that I am gay, and I hope this makes etown in more ways than one. My affection for it easier for others now,” he said. “And even if this landmark is colored by my fondness for its you’ve held it in for years, it feels easier to get hunky proprietor, Rick Murray, who was born it out.” Bravo, Ian. By the way, we’ll run the a hop, skip and a jump away from the birth- entire interview on BillyMasters.com. place of yours truly. He’s got some sensational This leads perfectly into the story about a events coming up. On Aug. 4, Liza Minnelli and young man who was almost arrested because Alan Cumming will be doing two shows at The he was wearing a Speedo in a water park, which Crown. As I confirmed my reservation for the has the following dress code: “Kentucky King- second show, I was reminded that both shows dom is a family-friendly theme park and re- are sold out. That shouldn’t deter you from serves the right to determine whether a guest’s checking with the box office—you never know. attire is appropriate.” Certainly a Speedo could And if you’re hot, find me—perhaps I’ll dump be considered inappropriate—as could a thong, my date and take you. Hot ’n horny hookups. LAPTOP certain bikinis or see-through swimming attire. The Crown is also producing a special con- OR The young man in question says that a pub- cert at Provincetown Town Hall. One night lic safety officer for the park said his Speedo only (Aug. 7), Carol Channing and Tommy was suitable. But an officer from the Louisville MOBILE Tune—TOGETHER. That’s like the entire history Metro Police allegedly called the lad “queer” of Broadway in one night. And, as I said be- and threatened to arrest him. The officer said fore, this will forever thwart rumors that they that several of the park’s public safety officers are one and the same. I hear there are still a had already warned the young man, which he WE’RE few tickets left, so if you don’t want to miss denies. Rather than risk jail time, he just left. something truly special, go directly to OnlyAt- To fill in some of the gaps, the young man in VERSATILE TheCrown.com. question is Jessie Colter, a gay male porn star Watch how I effortlessly segue into an item who does bareback videos online—not that about The View. Did you know that during the this is germane to the story, but it bears men- one season Rosie O’Donnell was a co-host, The tioning. Maybe Jessie’s prodigious “talent” was View had on more performers and live perfor- too visible whilst sheathed within his red Die- mances from Broadway shows than all the oth- sel Speedo. Or maybe it was how Jessie carried er seasons combined? OK, I just made up that himself. He recently tweeted, “I think is funny statistic, but I bet I’m not far off the mark. when people ask me if I’m gay, lol! I think it’s Rosie being back on daytime is a good thing for pretty obvious, especially if you’ve met me.” Of Broadway, for theater, and for us. And by us, I course, it’s also possible that the cop recog- mean those of us who write gossip. It’s a situ- nized Colter from his, ahem, “work.” Whatever ation that could implode at any minute—and Join the specifics, Jessie seems to indicate that— I’ll certainly be watching every single episode. for FREE as with all his endeavors—this one will have Our “Ask Billy” question comes from Darren a happy ending. “It appears that justice will Get 5 Days in Chicago: “I just read that [Olympic swimmer] be served in the matter of my recent incident Unlimited Ian Thorpe came out as gay. Is it true? He’s involving my brief cut trunks. That’s all for access always denied it.” now stay tuned folks.” I’m sure I’ll post some The sexy Aussie sat down with UK host Sir photos of Jessie in his offensive Speedo—and Michael Parkinson for a fascinating (paid) in- less—on BillyMasters.com. terview that clearly had an agenda. Parkinson When Cheyenne Jackson is bringing people quoted a section from Thorpe’s 2012 auto- together, it’s definitely time to end yet an- biography, This Is Me: “For the record, I am other column. Of course, all are welcome to not gay and all of my sexual experiences have check out www.BillyMasters.com—the site been straight.” Sir Michael asked: “Is all of that hasn’t yet been banned in Kentucky! If that true?” Thorpe: “Well, that’s true. But, um, you’d like to ask me a question, send it along you know, I’ve ... thought, well, I’ve thought to [email protected] and I promise to get about this for a long time.” Parkinson: “I bet.” back to you before people ask, “What Would Thorpe: “I’m not straight.” Parkinson: “You’re Ian Thorpe Do?” Jeah! Until next time, remem- not.” Thorpe: “And this is only something that ber, one man’s filth is another man’s bible. very recently—we’re talking in the past two 30 July 16, 2014 WINDY CITY TIMES Gay and Lesbian Sports Hall of Fame inductees honored By Gretchen Rachel Blickensderfer permanent purpose to inculcate a sense of vir- tue that transcends our communities even as The atmosphere at the Second Annual Gay and it celebrates them,” Kahrl said. “We gather to Lesbian Sports Hall of Fame induction ceremo- honor those here tonight who shared so much ny held at the Center on Halsted on July 11 of themselves in their achievements in sports seemed to exemplify the courage, victory and and through sports.” raw emotion to be found in the arenas where The first of the evening’s inductees was na- each of the evening’s honorees battled—often tional championship rugby player Mark Bing- gagged by rampant homophobia—simply for ham, who defied the hijackers of United Flight the love of the game. 93 on Sept. 11, 2001. Following Etheridge’s “This past year has been a year of triumph video, an emotional Schweickert posthumously and heartache for LGBT athletes,” Sports Hall inducted Bingham in recognition for his cour- of Fame Founder, Executive Director and Board age and excellence on both the rugby pitch and Jackie Weinberg (left) and Fallon Fox. Photo by Hal Baim Chair Bill Gubrud said in his opening remarks. as a national hero. “We’ve had the first openly gay player drafted Jason Sadler and Craig Sklenar—president auspicious and continual regardless of her 2006 and the sports field. Founder and rugby world in one of the four major sports. We’ve had nu- and president emeritus, respectively, of the transition from male to female. The Ohio-born cup champion Ben Cohen MBE said on the merous college athletes come out while still in inclusive rugby club The Chicago Dragons—ac- athlete fought both for her country in the U.S. foundation’s website that “Every person on this college. We’ve had Olympic athletes come out. cepted the award on Bingham’s behalf. Sklenar Navy as well as through disparagement and planet has a right to be true to themselves, to We’ve seen straight athletes show support to told Windy City Times that Bingham’s actions misunderstanding toward the transgender com- love and be loved, and to be happy.” Execu- LGBT athletes. We’ve seen support from politi- on 9/11 had a lasting effect upon the sport munity in order to become a tenacious and un- tive Director Alison Doerfler fought through a cians and corporations.” he loved so much. “There was just a ground- assailable role-model to others. “Fallon’s cour- lost voice to detail the work of the foundation As for the year’s heartache, Gubrud summed swell of new players,” Sklenar said. “The Inter- age to be herself, make her a prime example of to the audience. “As the mother of two young it up in a single word: Sochi. “That was an em- national Gay Rugby Association took off from LGBT excellence,” Weinberg said. children, I am honored to lead the charge on barrassment for the entire world,” he said. “But that point and we’ve seen thousands of openly The life of triathlite Chris Mosier has similar- behalf of their future,” she said. “I envision we came out looking good and Russia came out gay rugby players in the past 13 years.” Sklenar ly proven that a trans* prefix is not an impedi- that our part in this movement will pave the looking bad.” added that Bingham’s mother Alice Hoglan ment and does not make any difference to raw way for my children and countless others to Ironically, Sochi may also be one of the ven- regularly attends the Bingham Cup—a global achievement. The website Transathlete.com, play sports in a kinder, more loving world.” ues of soccer’s World Cup to be hosted by Rus- biannual rugby tournament that will take place which he co-founded with Jessica Pettitt, has The induction ceremony took place on retired sia in 2018. Gubrud noted the anti-gay slurs this year in Sydney Australia. “She’s our cer- been a resource to break through any barriers NFL defensive lineman Esera Tuaolo’s birthday. that were shouted at players by fans of team emonial mother,” Sklenar said. “In fact, she’s to trans* inclusion in athletics. The audience welcomed “Mr. Aloha” to the Mexico at this year’s tournament in Brazil— everybody’s mom for the weekend.” A legendary figure from an entirely different stage with a rendition of “Happy Birthday.” In something The Fédération Internationale de Posthumous recognition was also given to arena was honored by the Sports Hall of Fame. turn, he brought attendees to their feet with Football Association (FIFA) has been unwilling Washington Redskins tight end Jerry Smith, In 1978, then-San Francisco Mayor George his own performance of a song that declared, to address. “They did not step up and they did who died in 1986 after complications from Moscone succumbed to an assassin’s bullets “I’m a child of God.” not support us,” Gubrud said. HIV/AIDS. After 12 years with the team, he alongside Harvey Milk. Prior to the day Dan The last plaque of the evening was given His sentiments were echoed by 2013 in- held the NFL record for most career touchdowns White walked into his office, Moscone had been to Billy Bean, an all-American outfielder, first ductee, celebrated sportswriter and ESPN edi- by a tight-end—each made while living in fear a groundbreaking political advocate of LGBT baseman and designated hitter for teams that tor Christina Kahrl. “Acceptance of a slur on of being outed as gay. rights and a wholehearted believer in LGBT ac- included the Detroit Tigers, Los Angeles Dodg- the field of play and in the audience is some- John Amaechi was raised in England and was complishments on a sports field. Posthumously ers and San Diego Padres. He was the second thing that shouldn’t be about sports,” she said. both the first Brit to be inducted into the U.S. recognizing him as the Sports Hall of Fame’s former major league baseball player to come “Sports is something that is universal, that is Basketball Hall of Fame and, in 2007, the first first straight ally, accomplished photojournal- out as gay and has since become a motivation- international, that is human and so to diminish former NBA player to come out. Today, Ame- ist and 2013 inductee Jerry Pritikin recalled a al speaker, spokesman for the Human Rights any one person on the field or in the stands is achi is a consultant, broadcaster and philan- legacy that changed a conservative city to a Campaign and author of Going the Other Way: something that diminishes the value of sports thropist. He was honored for his advocacy and bastion of progressive achievement. Lessons from a Life in and out of Major League itself.” leadership in the LGBT community and as pro- Nike, Inc. was inducted for being at the fore- Baseball. The program book for this year’s induction fessional basketball player. front of LGBTQ corporate advocacy through Other inductees included diver and 2012 ceremony included congratulatory letters of Long-distance swimmer Diana Nyad illustrat- initiatives such as the first ever LGBTQ Sports Olympic bronze medalist Tom Daley; former support from Major League Baseball, the Na- ed what is possible when an athlete refuses Summit held in 2012 designed to combat anti- American and NFL Europe player and Execu- tional Football League, the National Basketball to quit. In September 2013, at the age of 64, LGBTQ bias in sports. Nike’s LGBTQ employee tive Director of the You Can Play Project Wade League, the National Hockey League and both she made a fifth attempt to swim from Havana network Chair Robert Goman accepted the Davis; All Star pro-women’s basketball player the Governor of Illinois and Mayor Emanuel. A Cuba to Key West Florida succeeding despite plaque. “If you have a body, you’re an athlete,” Brittney Griner; and retired Welsh rugby in- letter from FIFA was notably absent despite or- the threat of sharks and the constant attacks Goman said. “We are proud and very happy to ternational Gareth Thomas. Amy Armstrong, ganizers repeated attempts to secure one. from jellyfish. The Sports Hall of Fame recog- believe in a level playing field for everyone. Freddy Allen and the Chicago Cabaret Project Yet the wall-to-wall audience for the evening nized her for proving that age is not a fac- We’re delighted that our efforts have become provided entertainment during intermission. was there to applaud defiant accomplishment tor for greatness and that LGBT athletes can a beacon for all athletes to be their authentic For more information, visit http://gayan- in a vocation that has historically proven to achieve at the highest levels. selves.” dlesbiansports.com/. More photos are online be one of the most discriminatory and chal- The evening highlighted the achievements of The Stand Up Foundation began work in 2011 at www.WindyCityMediaGroup.com. lenging for LGBTQ people. “This hall serves a mixed-martial artist Fallon Fox that have been to permanently remove bullying from schools

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