Talking with singer frenchie davis WINDY CITY PAGE 19 THE VOICE OF CHICAGO’S GAY, LESBIAN, BI AND TRANS COMMUNITY SINCE 1985 Dec. 25, 2013 vol 29, no.13 www.WindyCityMediaGroup.comTIMES Looking back ‘BEYOND MARRIAGE’ Forum hosted The year in national news at Urban League COMPILED BY ANDREW DAVIS the first Latino, first gay man and youngest person to page 8 read an original poem at the inaugural ceremony. During It was a year that saw some astonishing examples of his speech, Obama mentioned Stonewall and marriage progress, whether legislative (more than a half-dozen equality. approving marriage equality) or simply physical (Diana —Baldwin makes history: Tammy Baldwin, D-Wis., Nyad’s swimming feat). Here’s the skinny on what trans- was sworn in as a U.S. senator Jan. 3 in Washington, pired in the LGBT community nationally in 2013: D.C.—becoming the first member of the LGBT commu- —Approved: In 2013, eight states approved marriage nity to be a part of the national legislative body. After equality—including Rhode Island, Delaware, Minnesota, her swearing-in, Baldwin ran into former GOP vice-pres- New Jersey, Hawaii, New Mexico, Utah and Illinois— idential candidate Paul Ryan (who’s also from Wiscon- bringing the total to 18, along with the District of Co- sin)—and they gave each other a big hug, with Ryan lumbia. saying, “Congratulations!” —Stonewall folds: National Stonewall Democrats Ex- —Hagel controversy: Then-Defense Secretary nomi- ecutive Director Jerame Davis said in January that his nee Chuck Hagel prompted controversy over anti-gay organization would cease operations through at least remarks he made 14 years ago when he characterized the end of this year after it failed to bridge a $30,000 then-Defense Secretary nominee James Hormel’s open- budget gap. Davis said that when he took over in 2011, ness about his sexual orientation as an “aggressive” act. lGBT activists there were “$1,800 in the bank and a boat load of debt.” Hagel apologized, and was eventually approved. protest —Four more years: President Obama and Vice Presi- —Leaving Family: Family Equality Council, in Janu- cardinal dent Joe Biden were reinaugurated Jan. 21. The Lesbian ary, announced the departure of Executive Director Jen- and Gay Band Association (LGBA) once again partici- nifer Chrisler following an eight-year tenure. Chrisler— george pated in the inaugural parade—the only LGBT group in- pagE 8 vited to do so. Also, 44-year-old Richard Blanco was U.S. Sen. Tammy Baldwin. Turn to page 4

jason collins PART OF YEAR IN LGBT sports, TOXIC? Britney Spears talks with Windy City Times in an ENTERTAINMENT interview that may paint a surprising portrait of pagE 17 the singer. Read page 16. Photo by Michelangelo Di Battista page 16

Bernard Bartilad ® SVP, Commercial Division Manager means business 312.633.0211 MB Financial Bank in every community. 1.888.i bank mb . mbfinancial.com Member FDIC WINDY CITY TIMES Dec. 25, 2013 3 this week in WINDY CITY TIMES NEWS ENTERTAINMENT/EVENTS Looking back at LGBT news 4 The year in dance 11 2013: In memoriam 5 Knight: Top LGBT films of 2013 14 N.M., Utah join marriage train 6 Pop Making Sense 15 TWO leader; Dwyer, Brun obits 7 Britney Spears; trans awards 16 Urban League; GLAAD; protest 8 Year in LGBT sports, entertainment 17 VIEWS: Flowers, Rudolph 10 Dish: Brixton 18 Talking with Frenchie Davis 19 Trans in the Life 20 Marksman comes out 21 Boitano says he’s gay, joins delegation Photos on cover (left, from top): Publicity 22 photo of Frenchie Davis; photo of Lisa Pickens by Tracy Baim; photo of Andy Thayer OUTLINES Enjoy a Long, by Matt Simonette; Sports Illustrated cover of Classifieds 18 Jason Collins Calendar Q 20 Happy Life Together

AGO’S GAY, LESBIAN, ICE OF CHIC SINCE 1985 THE VO MMUNITY BI AND TRANS CO , 2013 Dec. 25 G l 29, no.13 Talkin WINDY CITYvo WiTh sinGer Chie Dreaming about your new life together is easy. Preparing financially for fren davis om PAGE 19 TIMESindyCityMediaGroup.c www.W

o person t oungest g and y ny. Durin t gay man l ceremo no, firs augura marriage ooking backt Lati at the in l and the firs l poem l n origina oned Stonewal menti ., read a Obama speech, y Baldwin, D-Wisn, his Tamm shingto quality. history: 3 in Wa - nd e in makes tor Jan. T commu your ideal life, however, is often more complex. I have the experience eYO sena LGB ‘B ’ —Baldw s a U.S. r of the After Ge rn in a membe DOWNLOAD body. THIS! rria st lative Ma ed The year in nationalwas swo gnews the fir legis ce-pres- hOsT becomin national GOP vi ruM REW DAVIS D.C.— rt of the former con- fO ND les of a pa ran into from Wis PILED BY A hing examp y to be dwin ’s also an rBan COM f-dozen nit g-in, Bal n (who , with Ry aT u some astonis n a hal earin aul Rya ig hug at saw ore tha iana her sw ate P er a b Gue year th e (m ysical (D ial candid lea was a slativ ply ph ns- ident y gave each oth nomi- It hether legi y) or sim t tra and the !” retary PAGE 8 ss, w ny on wha sin)— tions efense Sec -gay progre arriage equalit s the skin 13: “Congratula Then-D over anti oving m y in 20 saying, ersy: versy rized appr ing feat). Here’ onall rriage ontrov d contro haracte wimm nity nati proved ma —Hagel c mpte en he c - Nyad’s s T commu tates ap esota, o wh s open the LGB ight s inn Chuck Hagel pro rs ag Hormel’ . pired in 2013, e aware, M — nee ade 14 yea ee James sive” act oved: In Island, Del Illinois s he m nomin aggres —Appr Utah a nd remark cretary as an “ uding Rhode exico, ct of Co- Se entation roved. ity—incl w M the Distri then-Defense l ori y app anu- equal ith sexua eventuall cil, in J sey, Hawaii, Ne , along w ss about his as Coun en- New Jer tal to 18 ts Ex- ne Equality ector J g the to mocra l apologized, and: Fwamily e Dir bringin newall De his Hage Family of Executiv ler— Sto that eaving rture nure. Chris bia. National in January ast —L the depa -year te lum olds: said ounced n eight Go to avis gh at le nn g a www.WindyCityMediaGroup.com ou —Stonewall f rame D ons thr ,000 ary, a followin 4 irector Je erati $30 cutive D ld cease op to bridge a 11, nifer Chrisler Turn to page e n wou t failed 20 anizatio i ok over in .” org year after hen he to f debt nd of this t w at load o the e avis said tha and a bo Presi- t gap. D he bank and Vice budge in t Obama esbian resident 1. The L there were “$1,80e0ars: P Jan. 2 ci- in. Ts more y gurated ain parti ldw CTivis —Four e reinau once ag in- ammy Ba a den wer GBA) p .S. Sen. T lGBT Joe Bi as U T dent ssociation (L —the only LGBT grouanco w and knowledge to help you accomplish your goals, through each Tes Band A ade d Bl prO and Gay d Richar in the inaugural par ear-ol Cardinal pated o. Also, 44-y e o do s GeOrG vited t PAGE 8 to download complete issues of Windy City Times and Nightspots.

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James E. Elvord, AWM online exclusives at First Vice President - Financial Advisor 500 West Madison Street, Suite 2500 www.WindyCityMediaGroup.com Chicago, IL 60661 (312) 559-1738 • (800) 683-3246 the hayley news [email protected] Paramore (with frontwoman Hayley Williams, left) is among those in Bent Nights’ look back at 2013. Photo by Vern Hester

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Gay singer WCT takes a look AUTO support Branden James at the Lincoln Park Windy City Limo shows that it backs the made the audience restaurant Macku LGBT community. swoon at City Signature. Winery. Photo by Andrew Davis Photo by Vern Hester

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nightspots LGBT fertility #1109 • Dec. 25, 2013 with nightspots Dr. Susan Davies

THE 2013 the best photos of RETROSPECTIVE 2013 ISSUE! (well, the ones we could print, anyway) Show #552 Find Nightspots on www.WindyCityQueercast.com 4 Dec. 25, 2013 WINDY CITY TIMES LOOKING BACK from cover forced to testify against each other. Prosecutors said Geneva Case heard her spouse, Bobbie Joe who joined Smith College in March as vice Clary, admit to killing a man two years ago, and president for alumnae relations and executive saw her clean blood out of the man’s van and director of the Alumnae Association of Smith abandon it in southern Indiana. Case and Clary College—remained with the council until March entered into a same-sex civil union in Vermont 15. in 2004; however, Kentucky law does not recog- —”Fil” of it?: Fast-food giant Chick-fil-A, de- nize union or marriages, even though it exempts spite some reports to the contrary, is still con- spouses from being compelled to testify against tributing to anti-gay organizations and causes, each other. Media Matters reported. Chick-fil-A donated —Bedding day: Longtime gay-rights activ- $1.9 million to anti-gay groups in 2010 alone ist and award-winning playwright Larry Kramer through WinShape Foundation. The majority of married long-term partner David Webster from that money went to groups like the Marriage & his hospital bed in New York City as he recov- Family Foundation, the Fellowship Of Christian ered from surgery. The Normal Heart writer, 78, Athletes, and the National Christian Foundation. initially planned to wed Webster on the terrace —Move against violence: The U.S. Senate of their Manhattan apartment, but they had to passed the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) scrap that idea after Kramer fell ill. reauthorization bill, which includes explicit pro- —Foreign affair: In what’s been called one tections for LGBT survivors of domestic violence of the first cases of its kind, a Belarusian gay and enhanced protections for Native American man tied the knot with his U.S. partner in Wash- and immigrant survivors. ington, D.C. and will be allowed to stay in the —Chelsea lately: Judge Col. Denise Lind sen- country. Vyachaslau Bortnik, a rights activist tenced U.S. soldier Chelsea Manning (formerly Diana Nyad and John Berry were part of the LGBT news landscape this year. Nyad photo by Julia from the city of Homel, and Shawn Gaylord, a Bradley Manning) Aug. 21 to 35 years in a mili- Bagg; Berry photo from the Office of Personnel Management website U.S. lawyer and adviser for a gay-advocacy orga- tary prison for turning over more than 700,000 nization, married July 11. classified files to WikiLeaks. (Manning was also —Maine event: President George H.W. Bush activist. She is a pioneer in applying for a green marriage. In a subsequent interview, she said dishonorably discharged from the military, lost and Barbara Bush attended and witnessed the card for her wife, UK national Karin Bogliolo, that her mother, who rarely speaks on public her pay and had her rank reduced to private.) wedding of friends in a same-sex ceremony in with The DOMA Project. policy issues, supports marriage equality. In an Aug. 22 announcement, Manning said she Maine. Bonnie Clement and Helen Thorgalsen— —A fine day: After two years of legal battles, —Departure: Barely a year after GLAAD wanted to live as a woman, and desired to begin who own HB Provisions, a Kennebunk, Maine, the trial of gay military activist Lt. Dan Choi named its new president, Herndon Graddick re- hormone therapy as soon as possible. general store—got the former president’s offi- ended after a federal judge convicted him of a signed from his position with the LGBT media- —Bowing out: Owing creditors more than cial stamp of approval, although Bush has not misdemeanor and fined him $100. Choi was on watchdog group. Media executive Sarah Kate $750,000, the National Association of People officially declared his position on same sex- trial for disobeying a lawful order by police to Ellis succeeded Graddick following a nationwide with AIDS (NAPWA) filed for Chapter 7 bankrupt- marriage. disperse, stemming from a 2010 protest at the search. cy, and announced it is going out of business 30 —Cory daze: Democrat Cory Booker—the White House against the United States military’s —Teenage nightmare: In Florida, teenager years after it was founded in 1983. mayor of Newark, N.J.—was the unofficial win- “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy. Kaitlyn Hunt was expelled from school and faced —Our people: The percentage of adults in ner of a state special election Oct. 16, handily —Denied: An Arizona judge denied Thomas criminal charges as a result of her same-sex re- the United States who identify as LGBT ranges defeating a conservative Republican to fill the Beatie’s request for divorce from his wife of nine lationship. Hunt, who attended Sebastian River from 1.7 percent in North Dakota to 5.1 percent state’s vacant U.S. Senate seat. Booker, a pro- years. The so-called “pregnant man” kept his fe- High School, began dating another another girl in Hawaii and 10 percent in the District of Co- gay candidate who had been heavily favored in male reproductive organs while transitioning to when Hunt was 17 and the other girl 15; when lumbia, according to findings from a new study polls, defeated conservative Republican Steve a man in his early 20s, and later gave birth to Hunt turned 18, her girlfriend’s parents had released by Williams Institute Distinguished Lonegan by double digits. three children. The judge ruled that since Beatie Hunt arrested. Hunt, now 19, pleaded no con- Scholar Gary J. Gates and Gallup Editor-in-Chief —Gates way: More than two years after and his wife have female organs, their marriage test to five charges as part of a deal brokered Frank Newport. playing an influential role in the Obama ad- can be viewed as a same-sex marriage, and Ari- by prosecutors and her attorneys; she agreed —Stung: Federal election regulators want ex- ministration’s repeal of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell,” zona doesn’t recognize such unions. to four months in jail followed by two years of U.S. Sen. Larry Craig to pay $140,000 in fines former U.S. Secretary of Defense Robert Gates —Goodbye hello: John Berry left his post as house arrest with electronic monitoring, and and return more than $216,000 to his campaign, was named president-elect of the Boy Scouts of director of the Office of Personnel Management, nine months of monitored probation after that. claiming he misused the money to fund his le- America. The Boy Scouts voted in May to ap- ending a four-year term as President Obama’s —Historic leader: Dr. Saul Levin was an- gal defense after his 2007 arrest in a Minneap- prove a resolution removing any ban on mem- highest openly gay employee. He later replaced nounced as the new chief executive officer and olis-St. Paul International Airport bathroom sex bers based on sexual orientation alone, although Jeff Bleich as U.S. ambassador to Australia. medical director of the American Psychiatric sting. gay Scout leaders are still prohibited. The policy —OUTgoing: OUT magazine presented its sev- Association. Levin, a psychiatrist with roots in —By the numbers: As many as 6 million change is slated to take effect Jan. 1, 2014. enth annual Power 50 list. Apple CEO Tim Cook substance abuse treatment, is the first openly adults and children in the United States have —Going to the chapel: The U.S. Military was number one, while this was the first time gay person to hold this position. an LGBT parent, and an estimated three million Academy at West Point marked a historic mo- Anderson Cooper (No. 5) is publicly out on the —Revealing: Lesbian New York City mayoral LGBT Americans have had a child at some point ment with the marriage of two former male list. Among the other people on the list were candidate Christine Quinn went public about her in their lives. Including single and married or graduates at its Cadet Chapel Nov. 2. Larry Cho- Ellen DeGeneres (2), statistician Nate Silver past battles with bulimia and alcoholism that partnered LGBT people, the study found that ate III, 27, and Daniel Lennox, 28, were married (5), U.S. Sen. Tammy Baldwin (9), singer Frank apparently started while her mother battled can- nearly half of LGBT women and a fifth of LGBT before about 20 guests, making it the academy’s Ocean (10), fashion designer/actor Marc Jacobs cer. Quinn said that, starting at 16, she secretly men under age 50 are currently raising a child. first wedding between two men. (19), financial guru Suze Orman (28) and RuPaul binged and purged for a decade until she en- —Revolutionary rulings: In late June, the —Family affair: The debate between the (50). tered a Florida rehabilitation center. U.S. Supreme Court ruled Section 3 of the De- daughters of former Vice President Dick Cheney —Hazing aftermath: Former Florida A&M —Beck and call: Trans woman Kristin Beck fense of Marriage Act unconstitutional and al- over same-sex marriage has reignited on social (FAMU) band members pled not guilty to in- traveled around the country, promoting her lowed a lower-court ruling to stand that struck media. Mary Cheney and wife Heather Poe took creased charges of manslaughter related to the memoir, Warrior Princess: A U.S. Navy SEAL’s down California’s Proposition 8, which defines to Facebook to express their disappointment af- death of drum major Robert Champion. More Journey to Coming out Transgender. As Christo- marriage as between one man and one woman. ter Liz Cheney—a GOP candidate for Senate in than a dozen former FAMU band members were pher, Beck served as a U.S. Navy SEAL in some of In the wake of the former decision, several fed- Wyoming—repeated her opposition to same sex charged last year with hazing, a third-degree the most dangerous battlegrounds in the world. eral departments (including social security and marriage during a television interview. felony, from Champion’s death in 2011; how- After retiring in 2011, Beck started living as education) revised its policies to include same- —Freedom riders: Late gay icons Sally Ride ever, prosecutors increased the charges to man- Kristin. sex couples. and Bayard Rustin were among the recipients slaughter. Champion Jr., a 26-year-old openly —This is SPARTA: Servicemembers, Part- —Taxing situation: The National Association of the Presidential Medal of Freedom. (Tam gay student, died after being beaten aboard the ners, and Allies for Respect and Tolerance for for Research & Therapy of Homosexuality, the O’Shaughnessy and Walter Naegle, respectively, charter bus parked at the Rosen Plaza hotel. All (SPARTA) announced its launch, just weeks leading anti-LGBT organization advocating for accepted for them.) Among the other recipients —ENDA push: U.S. Rep. Jared Polis (D-Colo.) after the alleged forced resignation of Allyson dangerous efforts that falsely attempt to change were Gloria Steinem, Oprah Winfrey, former Pres- introduced a trans-inclusive ENDA bill in the Robinson at OutServe-SLDN that precipitated one’s sexual orientation, had its tax exempt ident Bill Clinton and Loretta Lynn. House while Sen. Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.) intro- the group’s reported impending dissolution. status revoked by the IRS for failure to fill out —In the swim: Lesbian endurance swimmer duced an ENDA bill in the Senate. Later, the Robinson officially resigned July 12. Board co- proper and routine tax forms. Diana Nyad finally set a record she had chased Senate Health, Education, Labor & Pensions chair Josh Seefried launched an effort to force —Appointments: President Obama continued for more than three decades, completing the Committee approved ENDA by a 15–7 vote. The Robinson’s resignation; however, both Seefried his track record of appointing LGBT individuals, 110-mile swim from Cuba to Key West, Fla., on Senate approved ENDA Nov. 7 64-32 but the and Robinson ended up leaving the military or- including Fred Hochberg as president of Export- Sept. 2. The team for Nyad reported that she measure is expected to encounter more resis- ganization. Import Bank of the United States, Daniel Baer to completed the trip in 52 hours, 54 minutes and tance in the Republican-controlled House. —Study time: The U.S. Department of Hous- the Organization for Security and Co-operation 18.6 seconds—with no shark cage. She initially —Exchanging stances: Republican U.S. Sen. ing and Urban Development (HUD) released the in Europe, Rufus Gifford as ambassador to Den- attempted the swim in 1978. The last previous Rob Portman announced his stance on same-sex nation’s first-ever national study examining mark, James Costos as ambassador to Spain, and attempt (number four) was last year; she made marriage, and now is in support of its legaliza- housing discrimination against same-sex cou- Wally Brewster as the U.S. ambassador to the it 41 miles before succumbing to storms and jel- tion. The development occurred two years after ples in the private rental market. Among other Dominican Republic. lyfish stings. his son Will came out to Portman and his wife things, the study showed that gay male couples —It’s an honor: Lesbian writer Judy Rickard Read the entire year-end roundup online at as gay in 2011. experience more discrimination than lesbian was one of 11 people the White House hon- www.WindyCityMediaGroup.com. —Reagan revelations: Patti Davis, the couples. ored March 26 as Cesar Chavez “Champions of Next week will feature the highs and lows daughter of former President Ronald Reagan and —Southern exposure: A murder trial in Ken- Change.” Rickard—author of Torn Apart: United in 2013’s local and world news. First Lady Nancy Reagan, made headlines when tucky marked the first legal test in the state by Love, Divided by Law—has worked to pro- she said her father would have backed same-sex involving whether same-sex partners can be mote civil rights since 1973 as an LGBT-rights WINDY CITY TIMES Dec. 25, 2013 5 life partner, Michael Kaplan, said Sasser died of mesothelioma, a rare cancer of the lungs that Looking back: has been linked to a weakened immune system in some people with AIDS. —Jose Julio Sarria: Sarria, one of this coun- National deaths try’s pioneers regarding gay rights, passed away Aug. 19 at age 91. Sarria was a proud World War —Aaron Swartz: The Internet activist, hacker, remember that Gandolfini played gay hitman II veteran and the very first openly gay candi- author and programer who created the web-feed Winston Baldry in the Julia Roberts-Brad Pitt date to run for public office in North America, as format RSS committed suicide at age 26. Swartz, movie The Mexican. he was a candidate for the San Francisco Board who battled depression, had both male and fe- —Cory Monteith: Monteith, who played Finn of Supervisors in 1961. After his discharge from male lovers; he refused to label himself as bi- on the Fox show Glee, was found dead in a Van- the Army, Sarria became the most famous “drag sexual or gay. couver hotel room July 13 at age 31—and the queen/female impersonator” entertainer in San —Michael Triplett: The president of the Na- cause of death involved a fatal mix of heroin Francisco. tional Lesbian and Gay Journalists Association and alcohol. Monteith’s body was discovered by —Darren Manzella: Manzella, a gay veteran (NLGJA) died Jan. 17 after battling cancer. staff members at the Fairmont Pacific Rim Hotel of the Iraq war who fought against “Don’t Ask, He was 48. Jen Christensen of CNN succeeded after he missed his checkout time. Don’t Tell,” died in a car accident in Rochester, Triplett. —John Arthur: Arthur—the marriage-equal- N.Y., at the age of 36. Manzella came out as —Gerda Lerner: Lerner died Jan. 2 at age 92. ity advocate who made headlines in July after gay in 2007 while serving in the Army during The historian/author is considered one of the a federal judge ordered Ohio state officials to an interview on CBS’ 60 Minutes. His 60 Minutes founders of women’s studies, having created the recognize his marriage, performed in Maryland, interview was filmed, in secret, in Kuwait City first graduate program in women’s studies in the to his longtime partner, James Obergefell— Charlie Morgan. Photo from OutServe-SLDN while he was still a staff sergeant in the Army. country and providing the template for other died Oct. 22. Arthur and Obergefell had been —Paul Walker: Walker, best known for his lead programs across the U.S. over the years. together for more than 20 years; on July 11, diabetes, kidney disease, severe sciatica, and role in the Fast and Furious film franchise, died —Ed Koch: The former New York City mayor the Cincinnati couple took a specially equipped weakened lungs and progressive muscle deterio- Nov. 30 after a high-performance red Porsche he who used the catchphrase “How am I doin’?” medical jet to marry on the tarmac of Baltimore- ration related to childhood polio. was riding in crashed and exploded near a char- died of congestive heart failure Feb. 1 at 88. The Washington International Airport. —Sean Sasser: AIDS activist Sasser died at ity event near Santa Clarita, Calif. Walker was former mayor never married, and his sexuality —Doug Ireland: New York journalist and gay- age 44. Sasser entered the U.S. consciousness 40, and is survived by his 15-year-old daughter. was the subject of constant speculation. Play- rights activist Ireland died Oct. 26 at 67. Friends as Pedro Zamora’s boyfriend on MTV’s The Real Read the full list of deaths online at www. wright/LGBT-rights advocate Larry Kramer once said that Ireland suffered in recent years from World: San Francisco in the early 1990s. Sasser’s WindyCityMediaGroup.com. told New York Magazine that Koch “was a clos- eted gay man, and he did not want in any way to be associated with [AIDS].” —Charlie Morgan: Morgan—a career soldier from New Hampshire and part of one of eight couples named as plaintiffs in a lawsuit chal- lenging the federal Defense of Marriage Act— That’s So GAY! died at age 48 of breast cancer. U.S. Rep. Adam Smith (D-Wash.) introduced The Charlie Morgan Featuring more than Military Spouses Equal Treatment Act of 2013, the Senate companion bill to the Military Spous- es Equal Treatment Act of 2013, in the House; 2,400 questions Sen. Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.) with lead co- sponsor Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.H.) intro- duced it in the Senate. about LGBtq history from across the centuries —Jadin Bell: The Oregon teen, 15, died after a suicide attempt that took place in the school- and around the world. yard of an elementary school. Family and friends said the boy was the target of vicious bullying, (But don’t worry, there are plenty of current celebrity, sports, both at school and online. On top of that trag- edy, father Joseph, 48, died later this year after TV, film, music and theater questions, too!) being struck by a big rig in Colorado; Joseph was walking across the country to bring attention to the issue of bullying. —Marco McMillan: The body of the openly You win bingo chips for each correct gay Clarksdale, Miss., mayoral candidate was answer, and the winner is the first to found in a levee. Lawrence Reed, age 22, was arrested in connection with the case after he build a rainbow flag. reportedly drove McMillian’s SUV when it was in- volved in a head-on crash. —Rudy de la Mor: Rudy de la Mor, a caba- Great for parties and events. ret entertainer who performed in Chicago for decades before working on boat cruises and in venues in California, died at Kaiser Permanente Irvine Medical Center in Irvine, Calif., at 73. —Jason Lynch: Lynch, Mr. International Rub- ber (MIR) 2013, passed away Feb. 25 in Boston at age 38. Lynch was planning his first inter- national trip as MIR to Montreal when he died. —Richard Griffiths: The British actor best known for playing Uncle Vernon in the Harry Potter series died at age 65 from heart-surgery A new game complications. Among his many other films were by tracy Baim The Naked Gun 2 1/2: The Smell of Fear, Guard- ing Tess, Hugo and The History Boys, where he Available exclusively in Chicago at: played gay teacher Douglas Hector. Women & Children First Books —Roger Ebert: Ebert, the world-renowned film critic and longtime Chicago resident, died at 5233 n. Clark st., 773-769-9299 70 after a long battle with cancer. He was best Gaymart known for his At the Movies show with fellow 3457 n. Halsted st., 773-929-4272 critic Gene Siskel, coupled with their “thumbs up/thumbs down” reviews. —Kenny Kerr: Las Vegas drag queen Kerr, known for over-the-top impersonations of ce- Just $24.99 lebrities like Barbra Streisand and Cher, died at For details, email: age 60. In 1999, Kerr became the first female impersonator to be inducted into the Tropicana’s [email protected] Hall of Fame. —James Gandolfini: Gandolfini—known pri- www.facebook.com/thatssoGayGame marily for his role as Tony Soprano on the TV http://thatssogaygame.com show The Sopranos—died June 19 in Rome at age 51 of cardiac arrest. LGBT audiences may 6 Dec. 25, 2013 WINDY CITY TIMES New Mexico becomes17th state to OK marriage equality

By Lisa Keen their sexual orientation and that courts should Keen News Service examine such laws using an intermediate level of scrutiny—more than mere rational scrutiny, For the eighth time this year, a state has de- less than strict scrutiny. The court said “the clared that same-sex couples have the right to LGBT community is a discrete group that has marry. On Dec. 19, the New Mexico Supreme been subjected to a history of purposeful dis- Court ruled unanimously that state laws that crimination, and it has not had sufficient politi- “have the effect of precluding same-gender cou- cal strength to protect itself from such discrimi- ples from marrying” violate the equal protection nation.” guarantee of the state constitution. “When fundamental rights are affected by “We hold that the State of New Mexico is legislation, the United States Supreme Court constitutionally required to allow same-gender has applied strict scrutiny when determining couples to marry,” wrote the court, “and must whether the legislation is constitutional,” wrote extend to them the rights, protections, and re- the court. “However, regarding marriage, the sponsibilities that derive from civil marriage un- United States Supreme Court does not demand der New Mexico law.” ‘that every state regulation which relates in any The ruling not only makes New Mexico the 17th way to the incidents of or prerequisites for mar- state plus the District of Columbia to provide riage must be subjected to rigorous scrutiny.’” It marriage equality for same-sex couples, it rep- also noted that the U.S. Supreme Court in U.S. resents a new milestone: As 17th, it marks one- v. Windsor “left unanswered the level of scrutiny third of the 50 states, and its population puts it was applying to same-gender marriages.” more than one-third of the country’s population “We conclude from the United States Supreme as living under marriage equality laws. Court’s equivocation in these cases that whether “Today’s decision by the New Mexico Supreme the right to marry is a fundamental right requir- Court is a powerful affirmation that same-sex ing strict scrutiny is a question that remains Twitter pic of Seth Anderson (right) and husband Michael Adam Ferguson, who married in Utah. couples are equal members of New Mexico’s di- unanswered,” wrote Chavez. “We do not need Photo from Anderson verse culture and must be given the same legal to answer this question here because Plaintiffs protections and respect as other families,” said prevail when we apply an intermediate scrutiny Shannon Minter, legal director of the National level of review under an equal protection analy- Center for Lesbian Rights (NCLR), which pressed sis.” According to the court, under intermediate ferent in its messaging and emphasis, skew- the lawsuit with the ACLU. scrutiny, the state offered no sufficient reason McDonald’s: No ing sharply to language that could encourage Lambda Legal, which has itself pressed many for denying same-sex couples the right to marry. sexual stigma and blaming. such lawsuits, hailed the Dec. 19 ruling, saying, ©Copyright 2013 by Keen News Service. All political stand “We urge CDC to take this opportunity to “This beautiful unanimous decision explicitly rights reserved. re-evaluate language, methods and recom- underscores the argument we and our sister or- in Sochi By Matt Simonette mendations regarding the sexuality and HIV ganizations have long made: denying same-sex prevention practices of gay, and bisexual couples the ability to marry imposes significant Federal judge An official from Oak Brook, Ill.-based McDon- men and other MSM [men who have sex with emotional and dignitary harm and is discrimina- ald’s Corp. said at a Chicago Sports Commis- men].” tion, pure and simple.” strikes Utah sion luncheon last week that the company The groups who signed the statement in- New Mexico does not have a law explicitly ban on marriage would not make a statement about anti-gay clude ACT UP Philadelphia, AIDS Foundation banning same-sex couples from marrying. But By Lisa Keen laws implemented in Russia last summer, of Chicago, Gay Men’s Health Crisis (GMHC), five same-sex couples were denied licenses in Keen News Service Crain’s Chicago Business reported Dec. 17. Positive Women’s Network-USA (PWN-USA), Albuquerque, and the ACLU and NCLR filed the The company has a high-profile sponsorship HIV Prevention Justice Alliance (HIV PJA) lawsuit, Greigo v. Oliver, in March. A district On Dec. 20, a federal judge in Utah issued a of the Winter Games in Sochi, Russia. and Transgender Law Center, among others. court judge ruled in favor of the couples in Au- decision striking down that state’s ban on same- “If we as a sponsor, or any sponsor, were to The full statement is at http://www.windy- gust, and clerks in several counties begun issu- sex marriage. pull [out of their deal] or boycott, we’d be citymediagroup.com/lgbt/AIDS-groups-ask- ing marriage licenses. In its decision, the state Obama appointee Judge Robert Shelby issued hurting the U.S. Olympic team,” said John Le- CDC-to-change-reporting-methods-/45605. supreme court noted that, by the time of the a 53-page decision, in Kitchen v. Herbert, saying wicki, McDonald’s director of global alliances. html. oral argument in October, “over 1,466 marriage the state’s current definition of marriage is not “Our mission really is to make sure that we licenses had been issued” to same-sex couples permissible under the U.S. Constitution. do not penalize the U.S. athletes. The [U.S. in the state. Noting that a court interferes with a law ad- Olympic Committee] is not going to boycott, Edgewater path The decision, which Justice Edward Chavez opted by voters “only under exceptional circum- so we’re not going to subjugate that by not wrote, took pains to discuss the plaintiff couples stances,” Shelby said, “Utah’s prohibition on petition presented supporting athletes.” in everyday terms, mention their children, and same- sex marriage conflicts with the United Citizens of the Chicago North Side neigh- McDonald’s has been a regular sponsor of explain how the inability to marry negatively States Constitution’s guarantees of equal protec- borhood of Edgewater presented a petition the Olympics since 1976 and recently renewed impacted them. tion and due process under the law.” and online straw poll in support of the con- that sponsorship through 2020. “The inability to legally marry has adversely “The State’s current laws deny its gay and les- struction and funding of a promenade and Lewicki said that, while the company wants impacted several of the Plaintiff couples who bian citizens their fundamental right to marry,” bike path (with lighted median from Ardmore to see the athletes perform in an atmosphere have endured significant familial and medical wrote Shelby, “and, in so doing, demean the dig- to Devon avenues) to the offices of Ald. Harry free from discrimination, “We try to keep the hardships together,” wrote Chavez. “On one oc- nity of these same-sex couples for no rational Osterman, Ald. Patrick O’Connor, Mayor Rahm politics out of it and try to focus on sport.” casion, when Rose [Griego] was hospitalized, reason.” Emanuel and the Board of Elections on Dec. In August, activists from a number of the hospital refused to provide Kim [Kiel] with Shelby’s order immediately enjoined the state 16. Chicago-based organizations, among them any information about Rose’s condition or treat- from enforcing its ban, but Republican Gov. Gary Almost 1,500 signatures were collected StonewallAgain and Gay Liberation Network, ment until Rose’s other family members arrived, Herbert’s administration will almost certainly from May to November. protested at McDonald’s headquarters. despite the fact that it was Kim who took Rose seek an emergency stay of the decision from the The winner of the rendering competition to the hospital.” 10th Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals. is Chicago muralist Paul Noah, artist-in-res- Referring to the U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling It is, nevertheless, yet another surge of mo- idence at the Institute of Cultural Affairs in in June, striking down the key provision of the mentum in the direction of marriage equality in AIDS groups ask Uptown. A landscaping design competition is Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) in U.S. v. Wind- the United States, coming just one day after the now ongoing, with a prize of $100. See www. sor, the opinion said, “Interpreting our statutes New Mexico Supreme Court said that state could CDC to change EdgewaterBeachwalk.com. to authorize committed same-gender couples no longer interpret its marriage laws to exclude to enter into civil marriage will grant them the same-sex couples. That decision made New Mex- reporting methods rights and privileges available to opposite-gen- ico the 17th state in the country, plus the Dis- Several AIDS groups have issued a statement Center receives der married couples in approximately one thou- trict of Columbia, to provide marriage equality asking the Centers of Disease of Control (CDC) $45K grant sand statutes and federal regulations that refer and putting more than one-third of states and to change reporting methods in the wake of a to a person’s marital status, thereby avoiding a one-third of the nation’s population in jurisdic- report it recently released in its Morbidity and from Comcast constitutional challenge on that basis.” tions that treat same-sex couples the same as Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR). Lakeview’s Center on Halsted announced it “The purpose of the New Mexico marriage straight couples. The groups stated, “The press release for the received a three-year grant totaling $45,000 report, headlined ‘Sexual risk lower among laws,” wrote Chavez, “is to bring stability and ©2013 Keen News Service. All rights re- from the Comcast Foundation to support the U.S. gay and bisexual men who accurately order to the legal relationships of committed served. Dr. David J. Lochman Cyber Center. couples by defining their rights and responsibili- [Note: The office of Utah Attorney General Brian know their HIV status,’ provides a construc- The cyber center offers free Internet access ties as to one another, their property, and their Tarbet has filed a notice that it will appeal a tive and accurate emphasis on the success for visitors, along with classes ranging from children, if they choose to have children.” federal judge’s ruling striking down the state’s of gay and bisexual men who know their HIV how to use Microsoft Word and PowerPoint In reaching its decision, the court concluded ban on same-sex marriage.] status. and photo- and video-editing software, to that the laws preventing same-sex couples from “However, the full MMWR article is quite dif- how to set up a blog and use Twitter. marrying treat people differently because of WINDY CITY TIMES Dec. 25, 2013 7

Walter—or as he liked to be called, Wally, Wally had a near-encyclopedic memory and Truth Wins Out or “Waldemere”—was well-known and loved in knowledge of all things musical theater. He the community, and was a friend to so many especially enjoyed backstage anecdotes, dish founder moves people. and gossip about the goings-on of the stars He worked with many theaters over the and productions, and remembered everything. to Chicago years, most notably The Wellington/Ivanhoe, Being a connoisseur of irony with a wicked by Matthew C. Clark Bailiwick and Lionheart Gay Theater Company. sense of humor, “Waldemere” was very enter- He was versatile, and worked box office, back- taining. While Wayne Besen loves New York City, where he stage crew, and occasonially as an actor on- Wally passed less than a month before his originally headquartered Truth Wins Out (TWO), stage. At the Wellington/Ivanhoe, he worked 50th birthday. On his birth date, his family Chicago has also always been a love of his. crew on one of his all-time favorite shows, placed a memorial in the Chicago Tribune: “We “I’ve called Chicago my mistress for a long Theda Bara and the Frontier Rabbi, appreciat- remember your courage, your caring and your time—or ‘my mister’ would be more appropri- ing all of the musical drama and comedy of birthday.” He will be missed, with love and ate,” he told Windy City Times. that subject. lots of thanks. This December Besen moved TWO operations to Rick Paul, founder and director of Lionheart Chicago. Gay Theater Company, was Wally’s mentor on PASSAGES The non-profit organization, dedicated to several original productions. Wally also worked eradicating LGBTQ prejudice, found New York extensively with Syzygy Productions, a the- Hal Brun to be too expensive to base its operations from Wally Dwyer. ater group founded by Chicago playwright Jeff Hal Brun recently passed away at 66. Hagedorn, who wrote early groundbreaking He was the lifetime partner for 30 years of plays dealing with the personal and social im- Jeff Ginsberg (Columbia College Chicago); son PASSAGES pact of the AIDS epidemic. Appearing in sev- of the late Harold and Eleanor (Fortmiller) eral of their plays, Wally took part in Syzygy’s Brun; and fond brother of Barbara Brun and Walter J. revival of pub theater. David (Trina) Brun, according to the Chicago Lori Cannon, of Vital Bridges/Open Hand Tribune. ‘Wally’ Dwyer Food Pantry, has been a special friend of Wal- Brun received his masters degree from the A wake and funeral were held Nov. 24-25 in ly, and she and her volunteer staff have many University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign. honor of Wally Dwyer, following his passing fond and extraordinary memories of their as- He was the director of special education at Nov. 19 after a critical episode in his long- sociation with Wally. New Trier High School, director of special ser- term illness, which he had been surviving and Wally worked for several businesses in the vices Evanston/Skokie District, and executive dealing with fairly well. Community, including The Eagle, where he was director of the East DuPage Special Education His immediate family includes his mother outstanding in his full regalia. A collector, he District, Villa Park. Joan, his brother Nick and wife Liz, and his was known for his keen eye in spotting trea- In lieu of flowers, donations to can be sent sister Anne and husband Bob. He was a loved sures that others overlooked or discarded, and to American Brittany Rescue or the charity of uncle of Constance, a friend to his special was famous for his collection of “Leopard Print your choice. For info, contact Michalik Funeral cousin Loretta, and many cousins and extend- Everything” ... from photo frames to scarves to Home at 312-421-0936 or sign the guestbook ed family and friends. book jackets to well-turned accessories. at www.MichalikFuneralHome.com.

ter on Halsted, worked with the Gay Liberation Rauner said. “Today, they haven’t approved it in Network, and conducted press conferences with Rauner says he a referendum so if I were governor I would veto. gay-rights activist Rick Garcia—said the move would have vetoed I believe that voters, on some new concept like to Chicago will open the organization to better that—that’s a totally new concept—in a con- Wayne Besen. Photo by Michael Murphy fundraising and less travel, among other things. same-sex marriage tractual relationship between two adults, vot- “I think we’ll be in a much better position in Republican gubernatorial candidate Bruce ers should decide in a referendum. Politicians terms of getting people involved, and I think Rauner was recorded saying that he would have shouldn’t be putting that on people if they don’t there, and moved to Burlington, Vt., a small col- it will improve the development arena,” he voted against same-sex marriage in Illinois, ac- want it, or blocking it if they do.” lege town with a population a little more than said. “We work together whenever possible, and cording to a Dec. 19 Capitol Fax report. Rauner, a venture capitalist and confidant to 40,000. so we’re looking forward to making some new Rauner has maintained that the gay-marriage Mayor Rahm Emanuel, was asked by Carol Marin “We have a luxury in terms of [being] a small friends, and reconnecting with some old ones.” issue should be decided by a referendum vote, on WTTW’s Chicago Tonight in June whether he organization. We can run it as long as we have Besen sees the current cultural state for gays not by the legislature. In the recording, made at was “ducking” the topic of marriage equality, to an Internet hookup and a satellite dish some- and lesbians as a decisive one, which can put an a Tea Party gathering in Quincy, Ill., on Nov. 5, which he replied, “I will not lead on that issue.” where near by, we can run it,” Besen said. end to discrimination. the day the Illinois House approved SB10, Raun- The original article and recording are at: But Besen said he longed for the resources and “The ex-gay industry has been fairly discred- er was asked whether he would have vetoed the http://capitolfax.com/2013/12/19/rauner- organizations that a bigger city could offer. ited and severely weakened in the United States. bill were he governor. says-he-wouldve-vetoed-gay-marriage-bill/. “We looked at other factors: livability, afford- This is the time to finish the job,” he said. “That “The answer is, it would all depend on wheth- —Matt Simonette ability, a strong LGBT community. Chicago just doesn’t mean they won’t still be there, to some er the voters had approved it in a referendum,” seemed like a really great fit,” he said. “Chicago extent. As long as there is prejudice and discrim- just made a lot of sense. It’s an incredible city ination there will be a market for these types.” with a very strong LGBT community and it’s also As for the city of broad shoulders, Besen said a lot more affordable than Manhattan, or even he and his husband are looking forward to a Brooklyn now.” thriving LGBT community, making new friends, Besen said he was excited to be moving to the and returning to city life. Midwest, but also said the region in general can “Just the energy,” he said. “You just can’t be a contentious place, with organizations like manufacture that anywhere. As much as you’d Americans for Truth About Homosexuality, which like to, you can only get that in a few places.” is based in Illinois. “I think the general region where you have incredibly strong community,” he said. “Also in Miller Lite, Hailo the Midwest there’s a lot of fundamentalists as well, as you know, in the area. Even our nemesis offering $1M in Peter LaBarbera is right around the corner.” “I’m sure the ex-gay organizations aren’t going free taxi rides Miller Lite and Hailo are teaming to help pre- to be thrilled with our presence there,” he later vent drunk driving by giving away $1 million in added. cab rides in Chicago this holiday season. While he and his husband Jamie Brundage had Through Jan. 5, 2014, participants can obtain already planned on moving before the llinois a $10 Hailo discount code by visiting select bars marriage equality bill had gone for a vote before throughout the city where Miller Lite is served. the Illinois House of Representatives, Besen said To redeem the code, simply download the Hailo he was relieved that they will not have to down- app, enter the code and use it to summon a taxi. grade their marriage. Some of the local participating bars include Besen said TWO is currently working on three North End, Roscoe’s, Spin, Lucky Horseshoe and major projects: the Not All Christians Are Like Charlie’s. That Project, an LGBTscience.org website, and a The Hailo partnership in Chicago is part of definitive website on the extremism of what he MillerCoors largest drunk driving prevention pro- terms the ex-gay movement, which is still in its gram to date: together, the companies are pro- developing stages. viding $3 million worth of cab rides throughout “We want to do some more in-depth research the holiday season in Chicago, Boston and New and really look at these groups and make a per- York. suasive case, not just slap some stuff up there or Visit www.Hailocab.com/CelebrateSafe. do things that have been done before,” he said. Besen—who said he has spoken at the Cen- 8 Dec. 25, 2013 WINDY CITY TIMES Black LGBT activists discuss steps after marriage By Matt Simonette should be asking, ‘How do we grow the pie?’” Dr. Travis Gayles of Lurie Children’s Hospital A group of about 50 community activists and discussed health issues that disproportionately service providers, many of them affiliated with affect LGBT African-Americans, among them organizations serving African-American LGBT HIV/AIDS and diabetes, while Dr. Phoenix Mat- community members, gathered Dec. 21 at the thews of the University of Illinois at Chicago headquarters of the Chicago Urban League, 4510 addressed the marketing of cigarettes to the S. Michigan Ave., for a forum assessing what African-American community, and the problems issues they should address now that marriage with the high use of menthol cigarettes among equality is on its way to Illinois. African-American smokers. Kevin Boyer and Christina Kahrl at the GLAAD event. Photo by Tracy Baim Some activists from the African-American LGBT O’Connor, lobbyist Coy Pugh and Algie Crivens community regard the push for marriage equal- III of ASCME local 1006 discussed issues per- ity as a promising moment when individuals and taining to mandatory sentencing and criminal organizations were able to set aside differences record expungement. They acknowledged that GLAAD honors Kevin Boyer and work for a common goal. Now that the goal it’s difficult to get politicians on board with The Chicago Leadership Council of GLAAD hosted a holiday party at Downtown Bar & Lounge has largely been won in Illinois, many people ideas regarding criminal rehabilitation since Dec. 18, celebrating a year of LGBT victories and honoring former Leadership Council co-chair want to see that momentum applied to other many fear the consequences of not looking Kevin Boyer. initiatives. tough on crime. New GLAAD board member Christina Kahrl introduced Boyer at the event, pointing to his de- “This is the first time in 30 years that we’ve “Just because a person is convicted does not cades of service at various organizations as a leader, including with Gerber/Hart Library, Gay and had the chance to coalesce,” said activist Mi- mean that we [as a society] should throw them Lesbian History Month, the Chicago Area Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce, Gay Games VII chael O’Connor. away,” said O’Connor, who added that many in Chicago, and as co-chair of the March on Springfield Oct. 22. The forum was divided into three policy ses- politicians are scrambling to support and de- Boyer said now that marriage equality has passed in Illinois, it is time to continue the coali- sions addressing issues pertinent to the Black vise laws with tough penalties, even though the tion work that helped achieve that goal, by the LGBT community showing up and supporting a LGBT community: School Environment and crime rate in the state has dropped. wide range of social justice issues. Health Care Access; Criminal Justice; and Eco- During the Economics and Employment Dis- nomics and Employment Discrimination. crimination panel, Mona Noriega, commissioner State Rep. Greg Harris was in attendance, but of the Chicago Department of Human Relations,

From left: Activists protest Craig Johnson, Channyn Parker, Amara Enyia George celebration and Mona Noriega. By Matt Simonette Photo by About 25 activists, mostly members of the Tracy Baim Joe Murray Gay Liberation Network (GLN) and Rainbow at the Sash Movement, on Dec. 18 protested a cel- protest. ebration honoring the retirement of Cardinal Photo by Francis George held at the Drake Hotel, 140 Matt E. Walton Pl. Simonette “The majority of lay Catholics favor equal rights for gays and equal rights for women at a rate in excess of the general population,” representatives from some larger LGBT policy or- described the relative ease with which Chicago- said GLN co-founder Andy Thayer. “This pro- ganizations were not. ans could file a discrimination complaint, even test is not against Catholics [or] Catholicism. Khadine Bennett of the ACLU of Illinois began without an attorney, adding that it is illegal to It’s against those in the minority, who are the school environment panel by speaking of a discriminate under several categories, including in the leadership of their faith, preventing need for strong legislation that can help to curb sexual orientation, gender identity and credit equality for others—not just people of their school bullying. history. “For example, you will no longer see own faith, but also of the nation at large.” ACLU of Illinois is advocating for a bill that want ads here that read, ‘Only employed appli- Thayer said that even though Illinois had requires school districts to define their bullying cants need apply,’” said Noriega. made great strides towards equality, “the bat- Joe Murray of Rainbow Sash Movement said policies. The legislation was attempted in 2011 She acknowledged, however, that more people tle is not over” for the LGBT community. that George has “dragged his feet” in address- but did not get far thanks to opposition from needed to come forward with complaints—just “We may have won formal legal equality, ing sexual abuse scandals that have been per- the Illinois Family Institute, who said that the 237 have been filed in the city in 2013. but as the experience of others has shown vasive throughout the church. legislation would tacitly imply it was “okay to Panelists Channyn Parker of Chicago House us, formal legal equality is not all its cracked George “cares more about his clergy who be gay.” TransLife Center discussed challenges facing up to be,” Thayer said. “We need full social abuses children than the victims. It’s time for “That’s the climate we were dealing with in transgender individuals, including disparate equality, and the record of not just the arch- a readjustment of our traditional agenda.” Springfield,” said Bennett. rules concerning ID’s. She said that all too of- diocese of this city, but archdioceses around In a Dec. 18 interview in Chicago Sun-Times, Caryn Curry of Mental Health America of Illi- ten authorities fail to address the broad range of the country, has shown that when we push for George said of the scandal, “When I was or- nois added that the state’s schools must ramp people on the transgender spectrum while pre- a measure of social equality, they are bitterly dained, I never thought any priest could do up opportunities for “social and emotional senting difficulties that could only be resolved opposed to it.” something like that. To suddenly realize, yes learning” (SEL), which she said was “acquiring if a person had gender confirmation surgery. Bob Schwartz of GLN said the lavish cel- there are priests who can do things that evil skills to navigate the world.” “As of today, a trans woman’s greatest protec- ebration was unseemly given the financial was a shattering moment as it is for many SEL initiatives could heighten both a student’s tion is her invisibility,” said Parker. straights of the Chicago Archdiocese. Catholics.” self-awareness and their abilities to interact Amara Enyia of ACE Municipal Partners, also “When the Archdiocese is $40 million in the George was a high-profile opponent of mar- productively with others, Curry said, adding that spoke of difficulties facing LGBT immigrants red, personnel layoffs are being threatened, riage equality in Illinois. Shortly after the parents quite often can benefit by engaging of color, pointing to not only prejudices held potential school closures are talked about, passage of SB10 he wrote a letter denouncing with the initiatives as well. against immigrants by the wider community, there’s plenty of money to spend on a ban- the legislation, which he asked be included in “We’re talking about some basic civility,” Curry but prejudices against LGBT people in their own quet to honor this man who has spent his all church bulletins in the diocese. said. “The way we talk to each other is the core communities. time here in Chicago opposing equal rights SB10 “is bad law because it will contribute of everything.” Introductory and closing remarks at the forum for LGBT people as well as equal rights for over the long run to the further dissolution of Ramon Gardenhire of AIDS Foundation of Chi- were given by activist Lisa Marie Pickens, co- women—something is wrong with these men, marriage and family life, which are the bed- cago then discussed a number of political bar- founder of Affinity Community Services, while and they are all men, since there are no fe- rock of any society,” wrote George in the let- riers impeding the funding that provides medi- Kim Hunt of Affinity and Craig Johnson of Chi- male leaders in the Roman [Catholic] Church,” ter, published Nov. 17. cal assistance for underserved populations. He cago Black Gay Men’s Caucus were panel modera- Schwartz said. George submitted a letter stating his inten- suggested that a progressive state income tax, tors. “I am an out and proud lesbian, and I do tion of retiring at the beginning of 2012, as which is the norm in most states, could improve The online version of this article has more not want to celebrate this man,” added Deb- is customary when a cardinal reaches age 75. the revenue stream. Current funding strategies photos and videos of each of the panel discus- rah Goodman of GLN. “It angers me that he is Pope Francis, however, has yet to actually “pit different communities against each other sions. celebrated at all.” name a replacement. to get a piece of the pie,” Gardenhire said. “We WINDY CITY TIMES Dec. 25, 2013 9

GALA CHAIR COL (IL) Jennifer N. Pritzker, IL ARNG (Ret.) Invites you to attend

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INDIVIDUAL PLATINUM VIP TICKET $500 INDIVIDUAL PREMIER TICKET $400 INDIVIDUAL STANDARD TICKET $300 Includes admission to the Premier Reception; Includes admission to the Premier Reception; Best available seating at the Gala near the stage Preferred seating at the Gala FOR TICKETS VISIT WWW.EQIL.ORG OR CALL 773.477.7173 10 Dec. 25, 2013 WINDY CITY TIMES VIEWPOINT WINDY CITY TIMES shift took place this year in how LGBT people The Advocate even admits that “Pope Fran- VOL. 29, No. 13, Dec. 25, 2013 are considered by one of the world’s largest faith cis is still not pro-gay by today’s standard.” I The combined forces of Windy City Times, KIM founded Sept. 1985, and Outlines newspaper, communities.” respectfully believe the magazine should have founded May 1987. FLOWERS I’m afraid The Advocate has been sadly misled. given the award to someone who is truly pro- There has been no shift at all, and there won’t gay, not someone who is just telling his follow- PUBLISHER & EXECUTIVE EDITOR be one, at least not without more work. It’s true ers they should change the subject, and who Tracy Baim the pope said some nice words about not judg- says that gay marriage is “an attempt to destroy ing others, but this will not change one thing in God’s plan.” (http://www.theguardian.com/ ASSISTANT PUBLISHER Terri Klinsky MANAGING EDITOR Andrew Davis mainstream religion for the LGBT community. At world/2013/mar/13/pope-francis-quotations- BUSINESS MANAGER Ripley Caine The pope? best, the translation is, “Don’t hate and don’t by-him-about-him) DIRECTOR OF NEW MEDIA Jean Albright judge, but gay people should still change their Religion is important to many people, includ- ART DIRECTOR Kirk Williamson In the midst of congratulatory equal-marriage ways.” ing some of us in the LGBT community. Many of SALES Terri Klinsky, Amy Matheny, Kirk Williamson, news and controversial pieces like “Twitter’s Chris Cheuvront As a survivor of a religious upbringing and us have struggled to reconcile our faith and sex- Gayest Responses to Beyonce’s New Album,” The PROMOTIONAL SUPPORT Scott Duff Christian college experience, including a brief uality; some of us never will. Maybe we should NATIONAL SALES Rivendell Media, 212-242-6863 Advocate magazine has caused possibly the big- stint in ex-gay therapy, I know the words the take a good look at what the Bible actually says, SENIOR WRITERS Bob Roehr, Rex Wockner, Marie gest uproar yet by naming Pope Francis its Per- pope have said will in no way be implemented and consider all the multiple denominations out J. Kuda, David Byrne, Tony Peregrin, Lisa Keen, son of the Year in the December issue. Yasmin Nair, Erica Demarest, Matt Simonette, Kate into a radical new agenda for people who believe there —many Protestants consider Catholicism It even features him on its cover rocking a Sosin the Bible is infallible. The Bible says in Leviticus to be a borderline pagan religion and most don’t THEATER EDITOR Scott C. Morgan NOH8 logo on his face. I wonder if the magazine that two men who lie together have committed listen to the Pope at all. CINEMA WRITER Richard Knight, Jr. accidentally swapped out its December issue for an abomination and should be put to death. Re- Admiring the pope for saying, “We cannot in- BOOKS WRITER Yasmin Nair April Fool’s. The Advocate’s Facebook page has SPORTS WRITER Ross Forman gardless of whether this translation is accurate, sist only on issues related to abortion, gay mar- been swarmed with comments ranging from hap- ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT WRITERS if the verse is taken in appropriate context, or riage and the use of contraceptive methods” is Mary Shen Barnidge, Steve Warren, Lawrence Fer- piness to confusion, disgust and even subscrip- if any of it even matters at all, these are the fine, but giving him a top honor in the LGBT ber, Mel Ferrand, Jerry Nunn, Jonathan Abarbanel tion cancellations. I don’t plan to stop reading words printed on the page. Homosexuality, as a community just for saying a few neutral words is COLUMNISTS/WRITERS: Yvonne Zipter, Jorjet The Advocate, but I do think it’s given the pope Harper, Meghan Streit, Charlsie Dewey, Carrie sin, is something the vast majority of Christians a slap in the face to those who actually fought an honor that could have better served someone Maxwell, Billy Masters, Sarah Toce, Dana Rudolph, believe, while conveniently overlooking other for gay rights in our country this year. Sally Parsons, Melissa Wasserman, Jamie Anne who is actually working for the LGBT community. verses in the same book (and chapter) that for- Kim Flowers is a YA author from Indiana. Royce, Matthew C. Clark, Joe Franco After listing some of its finalists, The Advocate bid beard-shaving and tattoos, and commands http://kimflowersbooks.weebly.com SENIOR PHOTOGRAPHERS Mel Ferrand, Hal Baim, says, “There has not been any vote cast or ruling Emmanuel Garcia, Tim Carroll, Ed Negron, Susan the death penalty for adultery and cursing one’s issued, and still a significant and unprecedented Mattes parents. CIRCULATION CIRCULATION DIRECTOR Jean Albright DISTRIBUTION: Ashina, Allan, Dan, John, Renee, Sue and Victor with her spouse Karen, died in February from the agency’s moral or religious beliefs. Equality WEB HOSTING: LoveYourWebsite.com (lead pro- DANA breast cancer. Morgan was a plaintiff in a law- Michigan is urging House leaders to kill the bills. grammer: Martie Marro) suit brought by Outserve-SLDN challenging the —Child custody cases increasingly recognized RUDOLPH constitutionality of DOMA and pushing for spou- nonbiological parents: In Kansas, when a bio- Copyright 2013 Lambda Publications Inc./Windy City Media sal recognition from the military. Karen finally logical mother tried to prevent a nonbiological Group; All rights reserved. Reprint by permission only. Back issues (if available) for $5 per issue (postage included). received a military ID in October. mother from seeking custody, the state Supreme Return postage must accompany all manuscripts, drawings, Jennifer Neuman-Roper, mother of three and Court ruled that a nonbiological parent may be and photographs submitted if they are to be returned, and a plaintiff in the ACLU marriage lawsuit in New recognized as a parent and has the right to seek no responsibility may be assumed for unsolicited materials. All rights to letters, art and photographs sent to Windy Mexico, died in November of brain cancer. She custody. The Colorado Court of Appeals ruled City Times will be treated as unconditionally assigned MOMBIAN and her spouse Angelique had won an emer- similarly in a case there. In an Indiana Court for publication purposes and as such, subject to editing and comment. The opinions expressed by the columnists, LGBT parents gency court order that allowed them to marry of Appeals case, however, the court said a non- cartoonists, letter writers, and commentators are their own in August, several days before a district court biological mother may seek visitation, but does and do not necessarily reflect the position ofWindy City Times. Publication of the name, photograph, or likeness of and children judge ordered the Santa Fe County clerk to grant not have full parental rights. The Court noted, a person or organization in articles or advertising in Windy marriage licenses to same-sex couples. however, that it would welcome clearer legisla- City Times is not to be construed as any indication of the sexual orientation of such person or organization. While in 2013 —The Every Child Deserves a Family Act rein- tion on the matter. we encourage readers to support the advertisers who make troduced in both houses of Congress: The bill, And the Arkansas Supreme Court ruled in the this newspaper possible, Windy City Times cannot accept This past year has been full of events—positive which failed to make it out of committee in the case of a divorced gay dad with a new, male responsibility for advertising claims. and negative—that have impacted the struggle last two sessions, aims to find more permanent partner that the state does not automatically (773) 871-7610 FAX (773) 871-7609 for equality of LGBT parents and our children. e-mail: [email protected] or homes for children by withholding federal fund- ban the presence of a nonmarital partner during [email protected] Here are some highlights. ing of foster care and adoption organizations child visitation. Instead, it should weigh evi- —Marriage equality in eight new states: LGBT that discriminate on the basis of sexual orienta- dence of whether the children are likely to be www.WindyCityMediaGroup.com parents were active in all of them (California, tion or gender identity. harmed by the partner’s presence. podcast: WindyCityQueercast.com Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Minnesota, New Jer- —Same-sex parents recognized in President —Increased visibility in mainstream media: sey, New Mexico, and Rhode Island) to make this WINDY CITY MEDIA GROUP, Obama’s proclamation of National Family Week: The continuing success of the Emmy Award-win- 5315 N. Clark St. #192, Chicago, Illinois 60640 happen. The president wrote, “Whether united by blood ning Modern Family, along with new shows The U.S.A —The U.S. Supreme Court’s repeal of the De- or bonds of kinship—whether led by a mother Fosters and Sean Saves the World, put gay- and (MAILING ADDRESS ONLY) fense of Marriage Act’s (DOMA’s) ban on federal and father, same-sex couple, single parent, or lesbian-headed families on millions of television recognition: This was a boon to all same-sex Windy City Times Deadline every Wednesday. guardian—families are the building blocks of screens each week. Nightspots Deadline Wednesday prior to street date. couples, but had an immediate impact on bina- American society.” —Mixed news from abroad: Russian legislators OUT! Resource Guide ONLINE tional couples with children, who can now keep —The Employment Non-Discrimination Act introduced a bill that would let the state take www.WindyCityMediaGroup.com their families together. Cathy Davis, an Irish (ENDA) passed the Senate for the first time: children away from parents who are gay or les- www.WindyCityQueercast.com mom raising three children with her American ENDA would give job security to many, includ- bian. On the good side, Northern Ireland lifted spouse Catriona Dowling, was the first same-sex ing families with children. House Speaker John its ban on same-sex and unmarried couples ap- “Windy City Media Group generated spouse to receive a marriage-based green card, Boehner (R-Ohio) will not, however, let it come plying to adopt children. And Germany’s highest enormous interest among their readers just a week after the ruling. up for a vote in his chamber. court ruled that same-sex partners may adopt in this year’s LGBT Consumer Index —Increasing recognition for same-sex couples —The ban on gay and lesbian leaders upheld children already adopted by their partners. Pre- Survey. Out of approximately 100 print and online media partners who not legally married: In another repercussion of by the Boy Scouts of America: This includes both viously, they could only adopt the partner’s bio- participated in the survey, Windy the DOMA ruling, the U.S. Department of Educa- former scouts and parents of existing ones, even logical children. City was the best performing regional tion said in December that it will consider the though the organization decided to allow gay Overall, I’d say it was a year of progress, aided media in the U.S. Only survey partners finances of both parents in a legally married scouts. by the ever-increasing visibility of LGBT parents with a nationwide footprint were same-sex couple when calculating their child’s —Differing family structures recognized in and our children in our neighborhoods and com- able to generate a greater number of college financial aid. The department had, how- California: Governor Jerry Brown signed a bill to munities. Here’s to a great 2014 for all of us. ever, announced last April that it would consider responses.” ­­—David Marshall, Research allow a child to have more than two legal par- Dana Rudolph is the founder and publisher Director, Community Marketing, Inc. a dependent student’s legal parents regardless of ents, and another that requires health insurers of Mombian (mombian.com), an award-win- the parents’ marital status or gender, as long as to offer fertility coverage to all plan holders, re- ning blog and resource directory for LGBT par- the parents live together. And U.S. Customs and gardless of sexual orientation or marital status. ents. Border Protection announced same-sex couples —Adoption and foster care equality still a and their children can complete a customs dec- struggle: In Nebraska, three same-sex couples, laration as a family, even if the couple is not along with the ACLU, brought a lawsuit chal- legally married or if the parent is not related by lenging the state ban on gay men and lesbians blood or adoption to the children. becoming foster parents. Over in Michigan, —The passing of two lesbian mothers who had however, a House committee passed three bills been fighting for marriage equality: Chief War- that would give taxpayer-funded adoption agen- rant Officer 2 Charlie Morgan of the New Hamp- cies the right to deny an adoption based on shire National Guard, who was raising a child WINDY CITY TIMES Dec. 25, 2013 11 GOINGS-ON WINDY CITY TIMES’ ENTERTAINMENT SECTION

Photo by Oleg Volk

TAKING AIM Marksman Chris Cheng has officially come out of the closet. Read more on page 21. THEATER DISH SPORTS Going ‘Dutch.’ Hitting the Brix. What would Brian do? Page 12 Page 18 Page 22 Photo from Dutchman Photo of Brixton Photo of Brian Boitano by Joshua Willcox by Shira Kollins from The Food Network

Peter Carpenter’s ongoing mission explores the economic crisis and its impact on art. Parts nine Year in review: and ten were presented at Dance in the Parks and on a double bill with Same Planet Differ- ent World, respectively, and appeared to be more about bringing transparency to the creative pro- Chicago dance 2013 cess than economic doldrums. Carpenter’s come- dic timing, use of text, and theatrical stylings are just three of the many things that make him By Lauren Warnecke intimate, and simply beautiful. brilliant. To say 2013 was a good year for dance is an Best remounts Best out-of-towners understatement. Visitors dazzled with technical —Monument: The Seldoms —Underland: Stephen Petronio Company panache and theatricality, while our home-grown Carrie Hanson and her company of wonderful It feels like a long time ago that Stephen Pet- companies pushed themselves to work with new Seldoms benefitted from the return of Christina ronio traversed down a scaffolding upstage at genres, push production values upward, and re- Gonzalez-Gillett, as well as a revisit of the 2008 The Dance Center of Columbia College into his visit old haunts. Below is a top 10 of 2013 at work Monument at Stage 773. A timeless eulogy Underland. Much more than an exercise in the home (in no particular order), with three out-of- on waste, Monument marked a pivotal shift in Joffrey Ballet’s “Le Sacre du Printemps,” part art of the quick change (though it was most towners thrown in for good measure. Hanson’s process that has influenced more re- of its Russian Masters program. Photo by certainly that), multiple viewings of Underland cent works. Herbert Migdoll reveal its choreographic intricacy and deep con- Best new work —Cinderbox: Lucky Plush Productions nection to Nick Cage’s ominous score. —Episode 31: The Joffrey Ballet Cinderbox 2.0 impressively transformed the Best of the small-budget companies —Story/Time: Bill T. Jones / Arnie Zane Dance Everything about Alexander Eckman’s Episode main space in Links Hall’s new location, and —bully.punk.riot: BONEdanse Company 31 is exciting. Dressed in black and white, Jof- featured an equally beefy cast of dancers (some Rumored to be a final curtain call for BONE- The highly anticipated return of Bill T. Jones / frey’s dancers are pushed outside their comfort of whom were returning from the original 2007 danse, Artistic Director Atalee Judy created an Arnie Zane Dance Company to Chicago was nes- zone, and pull it off amazingly. The process and cast). The cheeky Julia Rhoads always manages immersive performance surrounding the theme tled amongst an impressive fall line-up at The product are entirely new for Joffrey, and Episode to startle and surprise, even when you know the of herding and crowd theory at the then new Dance Center of Columbia College Chicago, who 31 becomes even more interesting when juxta- punchlines. Links Hall space. Perhaps a memoir of Judy’s life celebrates its 40th season this year. Story/Time, posed with November’s full length La Bayadere. —One Thousand Pieces: Hubbard Street Dance as a run-away teen embedded in the New York a Cunningham/Cage-inspired chance operation, Premiered last August during the Chicago Danc- Chicago punk scene, bully.punk.riot revisited work from navigates 70 stories in as many minutes nar- ing Festival, Episode 31 visits the Auditorium A remount of a 2012 work seems odd at first, throughout her thirteen-year history, expertly rated by the stoic Jones surrounded by granny Theatre as part of Joffrey’s winter program in but HSDC chose wisely in re-presenting its sewn together to create a fun, cohesive experi- smith apples. Each story is a page from Jones’ February 2014, and is not to be missed. first evening-length effort from Cerrudo. One ence. diary, and exquisitely interpreted by the dancers —The Floating City: Kristina Isabelle Thousand Pieces is a feat of technical magnifi- —The Nexus Project with varying degrees of literacy. Chicago Dancemakers Forum Lab Artist Kristina cence—though it bears little resemblance to its The two man show featuring Michel Rodri- —Having Words: Casebolt & Smith Isabelle exploited every penny of her $15,000 inspiration (Marc Chagall’s America Windows). guez Cintra and Benjamin Wardell was a long You probably didn’t see this, but it’s definitely award in making The Floating City. Video, sound, The encore was presented just a few weeks ago time coming; coveted seats to the intimate worth a mention. Los Angeles-based Liz Casebolt lights, set and dance were beautifully calibrated for HSDC’s Winter Series, and rightly so with its performance in a PIlsen warehouse space were & Joel Smith are known for their dance theater in the evening-length exploration of “the muck” icy blue overtones and majestic fog curtain. sold-out for all ten performances, and for good duets—primarily because that is all they make. and “the middle”. —The Rite of Spring: The Joffrey Ballet reason. Wardell, the brain-child of the project, Having Words is a brilliantly constructed hand- —Cloudless: Hubbard Street Dance Chicago Many Rites of Spring popped up throughout crafted a choose-your-own-adventure show built shake dance for two dancers and an audience, (HSDC) the year in tribute to the centennial of the Ni- from material provided by 12 duets set on the built for DanceWorks Chicago and premiered by A short new duet for two women sandwiched jinsky ballet. The Joffrey opened its 2013-14 two men by 12 Chicago choreographers. In doing dancers Angela Dice Nguyen & Liv Schaffer at by bigger, flashier, full company works, Cloud- season with a program of “Russian Masters,” but so, he completely dispels any assumptions about The Art of Partnering: Audience Architects’ fi- less premiered as a part of HSDC’s fall series. Un- the true master was the reconstructed original partnering and man on man duets. nal Moving Dialogs series at the gorgeous Logan characteristically patient for resident choreog- choreography complete with authentic costum- —Rituals of Abundance and Lean Times: Peter Center for the Arts in November. rapher Alejandro Cerrudo, Cloudless is elegant, ing and sets. Carpenter Performance Project 12 Dec. 25, 2013 WINDY CITY TIMES THEATER REVIEW monologue from a beggar played by Mercedes White. While asking for change, White’s char- Dutchman acter goes on and on about trusting authority Playwright: Amiri Baraka figures of the time and how her ultimate reward (formerly LeRoi Jones) will come in the afterlife. It’s a view that was At: Definition Theatre Company common among Blacks during slavery as the one at Collaboraction Theater, way of freedom from so much suffering, so the 1579 N. Milwaukee Ave. Room 336 irony is not lost on the fact that the person de- Tickets: 847-868-2528; livering it is homeless and so supplicant in her www.definitiontheatre.org; $20-$25 views. Runs through: Jan. 5 The real dramatic tension of Dutchman comes when the hippie-like white woman Lula (Carley BY SCOTT C. MORGAN Cornelius, entering eating a symbolic apple) flirts with and then provokes the aspiring young Dutchman is very much a theatrical remnant of African-American poet Clay (Julian Parker). Lula the 1960s. Not only does the play ferociously continues to needle Clay throughout the play be- comment on simmering antagonism between fore Dutchman ends in murderous act of violence repressive white people and striving African- with hints that it will continue again and again Americans, but Dutchman also embodies much (sort of like the mythical title Flying Dutchman of the defiant, if pessimistic, mood of the soon who was cursed to live through eternity until he to be emboldened Black Power movement. can find the love of a virtuous woman). Dutchman also points to burgeoning pride in Parker and Cornelius offer solid performances, African heritage—made clear from the fact that and director Philips has added some interesting playwright LeRoi Jones changed his name to the staging conceits. These include having having more Afrocentric Amiri Baraka not long after he Djembe player Ayinde Cartman add percussive became known for writing this provoking one- punctuation to Clay and Lula’s sparring, and act drama. adding Danielle Banks singing “Fever” as a sub- Yet Dutchman can also come off as dated and way busker. a tad too obvious with its allegorical archetype But the inclusion of dancing and seat-hopping characters and blunt symbolism. Definition The- passengers (choreographed by Leila Henry) is atre Company makes a game attempt at pre- just plain distracting on Moon Jung Kim’s far- senting Dutchman, deliberately staged to start too-expansive subway set. It’s puzzling why a dialogue on how things haven’t changed for these folks don’t really react to the elevating Tribes. Photo by Michael Brosilow African-Americans in the ensuing years since anger of the central characters’ arguments. the civil-rights movement. (There is a moder- You can tell Definition Theatre’s intentions for ated post-show discussion after each show.) But reviving Dutchman are noble in terms of starting the play itself doesn’t always cooperate with di- a dialogue through a provocative 1964 theater THEATER REVIEW What speaks louder than the verbiage hurled rector Tyrone Phillips’ ultimate execution of the piece. But the ultimate execution of the play is at one another by this noisy, vulgar, fiercely af- material. problematic for such a work so strongly rooted in Tribes fectionate tribe is the undeniable pain of indi- Dutchman takes place in a New York subway the 1960s. Playwright: Nina Raine viduals struggling to articulate their needs to car and Definition’s production launches with a At: Steppenwolf Theatre, loved ones seemingly—well, deaf to their en- 1650 N. Halsted St. treaties. A journey’s first step can be a single Tickets: 312-335-1650; word (or gesture), though, and while audiences www.steppenwolf.org; $20-$82 may resent Raine for refusing to provide her THEATER REVIEW Runs through: Feb. 9 densely textured play a tidy resolution, when your story is all about taking those risky first Sherlock Holmes and BY MARY SHEN BARNIDGE steps, an ending that sends us home thinking the Christmas Goose “NOW what?” is a compelling reminder that only Playwright: J.B. Priestley The overeducated and overachieving family with the next step can progress occur. Playwright: adapted by Michael whose surname we never learn dwell in a house- Menendian and John Weagly from hold of harangues, soliloquies and pronounce- the story by Arthur Conan Doyle ments making for a domestic atmosphere vi- At: Raven Theatre, 6157 N. Clark St. brating with enough crossfire oratory to ignite Tickets: 773-338-2177; psychokinetic manifestations. www.raventheatre.com; $20 Papa Christopher is given to fulminating CRITICS’ PICKS Runs through: Dec. 29 against society in general and his kinfolk in specific, while Mama Beth writes marital-murder BY MARY SHEN BARNIDGE mysteries when not striving to keep the peace among her own brood. It’s no wonder that Christmas Dearest, Hell in a Handbag What lends this Sherlock Holmes whodunit its daughter Ruth withdraws into dreams of a sing- Productions at Mary’s Attic, through Dec. seasonal theme is the prominent clue provid- ing career and older son Daniel is afflicted with 29. Hollywood icon Joan Crawford gets her ed by that indispensable centerpiece of Vic- Sherlock Holmes and the Christmas Goose. a peripatetic stutter exacerbated by aural hallu- chance to become a tyrannical Scrooge in torian Christmas repasts, roast goose. The key Photo by Dean La Prairie cinations. Then, there is younger son Billy, who David Cerda’s gender-bending and campy to solving the mystery is not in the cooking dwells in silence, having been born deaf. spin on Dickens’ A Christmas Carol. SCM or eating, however, but the journey of these Billy is no allegorical-innocent Tiny Tim or A Klingon Christmas Carol, Commedia fowls from their barnyard coops to the tables Lenny Small, however. Having been taught to Beauregard at Raven Theatre, through Dec. of London. Actors swap costumes and shift scenery, story lip-read and vocalize by parents opposed to 29. Even adapted for science-fiction audi- The incident launching our story is the theater-style, to create a vivid array of period “self-definition by disability,” his introduction ences and performed in an artificial lan- theft of a precious brooch, set with a rare images, their transitions bridged by catchy to Sylvia—a young woman acclimated to deaf guage (with English subtitles), Dickens’ blue gem, belonging to a guest staying in original arrangements of traditional carols. culture, who is gradually losing her hearing to seasonal parable conveys, literally, univer- a Mayfair hotel. Holmes and Watson are in- What still needs to be addressed is the a hereditary illness—opens up new vistas for sal wisdom and warmth. MSB trigued by the case after the stolen bijou is ambiguous tone of our vaudeville’s narrative the sheltered lad, but also mandates uncomfort- Once Upon a People, Black Ensemble, found in the craw of a goose purchased at segment. If intended as straightforward de- able decisions: can these sensory-crossed lovers through Dec. 29. Courageous princesses do the Covent Garden market. Despite the prop- tection, then its personnel must be played find contentment as second-class citizens amid the rescuing and powerful female monarchs erty’s recovery seeming to conclude the mat- straight-faced, with the thief’s reformation the auditory-unchallenged, or should they in- decide the fate of their realms in Rueben ter, Holmes thinks the police may have ar- rendered plausible within the context of his stead seek acceptance in the equally snobbish Echoles’ jubilant music-and-dance-filled rested the wrong man, and proposes to trace character. If, on the other hand, the goal is world of the auditory-impaired? How will their holiday adaptation of an African Folk tale. the progress of the jewel through a labyrinth slapstick of the kind associated with Panto filial loyalties—specifically, the fraternal bond MSB winding over the urban landscape of 1892, aimed at juvenile audiences, more mugging between Billy and Daniel—be tested by their Port Authority, Writers Theatre, through with its prototypal shopper’s clubs, back- and winking is necessary, the quaint (in growth? What if their goals cease to be mutually Feb. 16, 2014. Exquisite acting, and com- yard farming industry, and newsboys hawking 2013) concept of freshly butchered—as op- compatible? monplace speech elevated to poetry, infuse the latest headlines. Oh, and since this is a posed to frozen and plastic-wrapped—poul- Nina Raine doesn’t make the choices any easier this tender and introspective piece about Christmas tale, the criminal, upon being ex- try emphasized, and the intellectual enjoy- for playgoers. Yes, the staging includes project- three Irishmen of different generations who posed, pleads—and is granted—mercy after ment of the plot discarded altogether. ed subtitles—for sign language and, significant- bare their rueful souls about the women promising to cease his dishonest ways. It’s difficult to imagine how a production ly, for Daniel’s increasingly halting speech—but who got away. JA Michael Menendian and John Weagly’s ad- performed only three weeks a year can pro- we are also confronted with conversations where aptation appears to have undergone some vide feedback for the authors in sufficient no translations are offered. Music is played in —By Abarbanel, Barnidge changes since making its debut in 2012. The quantity to fulfill its undeniable potential as increasingly narrow tonal ranges, fading into and Morgan presence of stageside technicians supplying an annual treat for holiday audiences of all white noise. The characters interrupt and over- incidental music and sound effects (think ra- ages. Look to 2014 for Menendian and Weagly lap one another in logorrheic frenzy (rules of dio plays) is minimized after the dramatic ac- to decide what kind of goose they will serve discourse apparently viewed as bourgeois affec- tion commences, lest it become a distraction. up. tations). WINDY CITY TIMES Dec. 25, 2013 13 SPOTLIGHT

Puerto Rican actress/writer Ravi Batista teams up with Neo-Futurists co-founder Greg Allen for a one-woman show called Blasted Fool: Hamlet, Hope and the Madness in Our Blood. The work employs five languages, 10 characters and loads of Shakespearean passion to deal with suicidal thoughts, worries of inherited madness and the stress of the holiday season. Soul The- The Little Prince. Photo by Liz Lauren atre’s production of Blasted Fool: Hamlet, Hope and the Madness in Our Blood continues through Sunday, Jan. 5, at Theater Wit, 1229 W. Belmont Ave. Performances are at 7:30 p.m. Thursdays and Fridays, 3 and 7:30 p.m. Saturdays and 2 and 6 p.m. Sundays. Tickets are $20 and $10 for THEATER REVIEW up from down below in places you would least students and seniors; call 773-975-8150 or visit www.lyricopera.org. Photo by Joe Mazza suspect for them to appear. The Little Prince In terms of visual splendor and theatrical Playwrights: Rick Cummings and John whimsey, this is a prime all-ages Lookingglas Scouliar after Antoine de Saint-Exupery staging that could easily tour regionally like the At: Lookingglass Theatre theater’s past hits. Sally Dolembo’s costumes are Company, 821 N. Michigan Ave. a clever mix of centuries-old styles and up-to- Tickets: 312-337-0665; date freshness, and William Kirkham’s lighting PFP to present Hellman’s www.lookingglasstheatre.org; $45-$75 helps transport audiences to imaginative galax- Runs through: Feb. 23 ies far away. Director Catlin also emphasizes the ‘The Children’s Hour’ human-made quality of theater by showing the Pride Films and Plays (PFP) continues its on a true story, and was originally banned in BY SCOTT C. MORGAN actors creating music with instruments or vo- 2013-14 season with Lillian Hellman’s The Chicago and not seen here until the 1950s. cally, showing how moods are made while also Children’s Hour, which will run Jan. 9-Feb. 9, Tickets are $15-$30; call 800-838-3006 or There are lots of wowing theatrical surprises receding into the dramatic background. 2014, at Collaboraction’s Pentagon Theater, visit www.brownpapertickets.com. in store for audiences at Lookingglass Theatre But what’s lacking in this Lookingglass Little 1579 N. Milwaukee Ave. For more about PFP, visit www.pridefilm- Company’s new adaptation of Antoine de Saint- Prince are more quiet charming moments for the Written in 1934, The Children’s Hour is based sandplays.com. Exupery’s beloved children’s novel The Little show’s symbolism and messages to be contem- Prince. And while that’s just great for easily dis- plated. Many insights are delivered either in a tracted kids, adult fans of the book might be shiny, or physically dynamic way, but the mean- put off by the circus-based hard-sell drive to the ings can get muddled in the rush to show off the production overseen by director David Catlin. next dazzling theatrical trick (like that cool but Lookingglass Theatre certainly has its heart ultimately distracting swarm of extra-strength in the right place for The Little Prince, so you soap bubbles). can’t fault them there. Story adapters Rick Cum- The cast is consistently crafty and character- mings and John Scouliar have structured the ful, although it would have been nicer if the well-known tale about a stranded Aviator (Ian actors had some more depth to play from the Barford) who encounters a mysterious and un- show’s script (particularly Louise Lamson’s love- earthly Little Prince (Amelia Hefferon) as a pae- ly and vain Rose). The Little Prince’s death also an to childlike imagination that questions the might have benefited with a little more grievous hollow motivations of grownups for power and loss to heighten the drama. attention. So even if it might move a bit too speedily To visually emphasize this point, set designer for my taste, Lookingglass Theatre’s visually re- Courtney O’Neill’s dominating image is an over- splendent take on The Little Prince is consis- size, curvy blank sheet of paper that alternately tently entertaining and full of visual wonder to functions as a drawing pad and an oversize slide spur anyone’s imagination. Hopefully, the The among other uses. The attractive and physically Little Prince will spur kids and parents to start a fit supporting cast also get a rigorous workout dialogue on the show’s many symbolic flourishes with Sylviaa Hernandez-DiStasi’s acrobatic and after the fact to make up for the rushed dramatic circus choreography. Fine actors like Adeoye, Ka- impacts from mid-show. This holiday season, make merry with reem Bandlealy, Kasey Foster, Raymond Fox and Sir John Falstaff, the bawdiest, naughtiest NOW Lauren Hirte lower down from up above or rise rogue to ever appear on stage! PLAYING

audition for 2014–15 season contracts with Hubbard Street Hubbard Street’s main company and HS2. seeks applicants, Each audition includes a $10 fee; email audi- dancers [email protected]. Terence Marling, director of Hubbard Street 2 (HS2), and Hubbard Street Artistic Director ‘Chicago Casting Glenn Edgerton encourage experienced dance- makers to apply for commissions through Auction’ raises HS2’s 15th annual National Choreographic $60K for Bailiwick Competition (NCC). Bailiwick Chicago’s annual Chicago Casting NCC applicants must complete the form Auction raised more than $60,000 for the available online at http://bit.ly/HS2NCC2014. company, earning the top bidders starring by Applications and materials must be submitted WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE roles in Bailiwick Chicago’s upcoming produc- directed by by Jan. 1, 2014. tion of The Drowsy Chaperone. BARBARA GAINES NCC winners will create and premiere their Thirty-five roles were auctioned off during works during Hubbard Street 2’s 2014–15 sea- the Nov. 2 event at Chicago’s Dank Haus Ger- son. Email [email protected] for man American Cultural Center Grand Ballroom, 312.595.5600 • chicagoshakes.com more info. 4740 N. Western Ave. Additional supporting In addition, early-career and professional and chorus roles were won via silent auction. Bill Burlingham by photo Fox, and Kelli Jaeck with Heidi Kettenring Scott MAJOR dancers, male and female, are encouraged to PRODUCTION 2013/14 SEASON SPONSORS SUPPORTERS 14 Dec. 25, 2013 WINDY CITY TIMES KNIGHT AT THE MOVIES

By Richard Knight Jr. Favorite LGBT films of 2013 Blue Is The Warmest Color and Interior. Leather Bar, the two most talked about queer-themed movies of the year were, in my estimation, prime examples of the emperor wearing no clothes. By that I mean that all the hype and folderol about these being cinematic breakthroughs was nothing more than yet two more examples of straight white guys giving us their limited view Joji Yoshida (left) and Matthew McConaughey in Dallas Buyers Club. Photo by by Anne Marie Fox-Focus Features of Our People through their stereotypical lens. (I know that the “experimental” Interior was co-di- rected by the openly gay Travis Mathews, which, nancial hits of some of these queer-themed pic- film critic. But even without more LGBT movies Brenda Fricker play a long-term lesbian couple for me, made it that even more disconcerting.) tures, I wouldn’t expect to see more of them get playing in Chicago proper, the increased advent who head to Canada to legalize their union to Blue had a strong first hour and some tremen- theatrical bookings here. of Video on Demand and other online services as prevent Fricker’s daughter from taking their dous acting from its two leads but I think has All of which speaks to the importance of au- well as Netflix has made it a lot easier to find home away in this bittersweet road film. been overhyped. (See my past discussion with diences supporting any venue—especially the access to queer-themed movies—and more are Queer teenage angst: Animals—A gay cross Windy City Times editor Tracy Baim for further independently owned theaters—that are help- being made directly for television as well. (Be- between Donnie Darko and Elephant, this Span- thoughts about the film.) ing to keep the torch lit for queer cinema in hind the Candelabra for HBO being 2013’s most ish film is a strangely fascinating coming of age There were other high-profile and must-see LG- Chicago. So, too, is the urgency of patronizing prominent example.) story of a teen whose best friend is his English BT-themed movies this year that I quite liked— the various film festivals, as these are often the I have been putting together a list of Top Ten accented teddy bear. Dallas Buyers Club, Kill Your Darlings, Behind the only chance to see these movies in the theatri- LGBT films since 2004 in preferential order but Runner-up: Geography Club—Based on gay Candelabra, Laurence Anyways, Concussion—but cal setting for which they were made. As both this year have decided to group my favorites writer Brent Hartinger’s bestselling novel, this is when discussing the year in queer cinema in Chi- the programming director for this year’s Reeling (most with a runner-up) in categories. I love all a familiar yet welcome story of a group of high cago the first distinction that needs to be made Film Festival and a jury member for the Queer these movies, some more than others and don’t school misfits who form a club for queer teens is always the small number of LGBT-themed mov- Hugo section of the Chicago International Film want to lessen my desire for you to see them by but have to keep its identity secret. ies that actually get theatrical runs here, as op- Festival, I have seen firsthand the profound im- numbering them. Queer (fabulous) history: Behind the Cande- posed to the coasts. pact seeing these movies in a theater can have Queer icons: I Am Divine—Out director Jef- labra—Michael Douglas and Matt Damon went That number has been diminishing for several on audiences. There still is nothing like the an- frey Schwarz’s illuminating portrait of the all out in this over-the-top biopic of the ulti- years—the causes of which are varied (chang- ticipation that comes when the lights are about 300-pound drag queen Divine who, with his mate Vegas entertainer, pianist Liberace, and his ing tastes being one). But the primary reason is to go down and you’re sitting with an audience creative partner in crime, John Waters, changed much younger lover Scott Thorson. It’s kitsch always less-than-spectacular box-office returns. of your peers. the face of cinema, elevating trash to the main- heaven with surprising moments of depth. Until movie patrons in Chicago make big fat fi- This, I realize, is a typical exhortation from a stream. Runner-up: Six By Sondheim—Director Runner-up: Portrait of Jason—Director Shirley James Lapine’s documentary about the openly Clarke’s 1967 classic of a real life gay raconteur, gay dean of musical American theater is revela- the African American queen of the title, who de- tory and creatively assembled (now showing on livers a non-stop monologue that is insightful HBO, where it debuted earlier this month). and sensationally entertaining from the get go. Queer Lives: The Happy Sad—Out director Blurring the lines: Laurence Anyways—Queer Rodney Evans followed up his acclaimed debut French-Canadian auteur Xavier Dolan’s three- Brother to Brother at long last with this sexy hour magnum opus follows the male-to-female romantic drama. transition of the title character in the 1980s and Runner-up: Two: The Story of Roman & Nyro— his fractious relationship with his sympathetic Heather Winters’ moving and humorous portrait but conflicted girlfriend (a luminous Suzanne of an extended group of individuals all gathered Clement). together to help raise the adorable twin sons of Heartbreaking: Valentine Road—Marta Cun- two gay men truly captures the modern family at ningham’s documentary about the murder of its best. 15-year-old Lawrence King, a gay teen with Art-house darlings: Dallas Buyers Club—Mat- trans tendencies, by his classmate is explored in thew McConaughey and Jared Leto give award- this eye-opening film that played festivals and worthy performances in this based on a true sto- is currently showing on HBO. Unforgettable. ry of two disparate men with AIDS—one straight Runner-up: Philomena—Judi Dench is sensa- and homophobic, the other a gay, drug-addled, tional in this based on a true story of a simple sweet-spirited drag queen—each battling for Irish woman looking for the child she was forced their lives in the 1980s. to give up 50 years before. The film, which co- Runner-up: Kill Your Darlings—Out writer di- stars Steve Coogan (who also co-wrote the script rector John Krokidas made an impressive debut and produced) features a moving gay twist that with this look at poet Allen Ginsberg (memora- comes as the film heads into the final section. bly portrayed by Daniel Radcliffe) at the outset Get out your hankie. of his coming of age as a college student in the Let’s go sexin’: Concussion—Lesbian writer- mid-1940s and his relationship with mentor Luc- director Stacie Passon’s sexy update of Belle du ien Carr (Dane DeHaan), who murdered his lover Jour has an affluent, lesbian suburban house- in what was then an acceptable defense called wife who becomes an escort by day. It features a an “honor killing.” tremendous leading performance by Robin Wei- Women in love: Reaching for the Moon—The gert. torrid, true life affair between poet Elizabeth Other notable queer-themed films of 2013: Be- Bishop and her Brazilian architect lover is gor- yond the Hills, In the Name Of, North Sea Texas, geously retold in this sumptuous romantic drama Free Fall, and The Last Match and, my personal set in the 1950s. fave, Hawaii Runner-up: Cloudburst—Olympia Dukakis and Robin Weigert in Concussion. Photo courtesy of Mark Umbach WINDY CITY TIMES Dec. 25, 2013 15 breathless over a drawn- out, hypnotic beat. Light Sweet Crude never loses its groove or sensuality. Whether it is her vocal’s timing, her phrasing of lyr- ics or captivating me in her music’s rhythm, once again Daou is simply spellbind- ing. The self-released Light POP Sweet Crude and remixes to MAKING “Danger Ahead” are avail- able now digitally. SENSE New York dance artist by David Byrne SirPaul returns with Sev- enth Star and he has love with Tony Peregrin on his mind. “Turning Me On” and “Black Leather” are lyrical foreplay, letting his lover know what is to follow. The edgy electro Blonde divas Britney Spears and Beyonce have vibe on “He’s So Unusual” new albums out to add to the year-end rush. adds more spice to Seventh Star. “Every Single Bastille. “Perfume” and “Now That I Found You” dare to Moment” is a dance ode about missing his part- shed the overproduced dance sound Spears has ner, while the youthful “Be Mine” is very flirty. Marvin been favoring. But she sings as if clothespins “Love Sick” is asking for remixes or even a video. rock band’s latest Howl is out now on Blood- Hamlisch. are pinching her nose and her tongue during Seventh Star is out now on SirPaul’s label Con- shot Records and contains the remarkable tracks Photo from “Work Bitch.” The club-ready tracks—ike “It troversial Records. “Rouse Yourself” and “River.” For a tickets and Pittsburgh Should Be Easy,” the mindless “Tik Tik Boom” This year’s success story belongs to Mary complete line up of Rock ‘N’ Roll Ball, please Symphony and “Til It’s Gone”—surely will give her extend- Lambert. The lesbian singer-songwriter wrote visit nye.icohare.com. Orchestra ed live engagement in Las Vegas an extra jolt of and sang the chorus on “Same Love” by Mackl- Beloved female rock group Luscious Jackson energy. Just be mindful of cliche-plagued fillers emore and Ryan Lewis. This popular testimony reunited and released the hilarious video “#1 “Passenger” and “Don’t Cry” on Britney Jean. pleading for marriage equality received a Gram- Bum.” Here, women gawk over a guy who wears There is a video for all 14 tracks plus bonus my nomination. Lambert expanded the chorus jeans well. The clip is so outrageously done, es- ‘Marvin Hamlisch: clips on Beyonce’s self-titled album, which be- into a proper composition called “She Keeps Me pecially with its conclusion. The song itself does comes a bit too much. Beyonce has a mighty Warm,” which is on her new EP, Welcome to the not stray from the band’s style during its Riot What He Did for guest list contributing here. Frank Ocean ap- Age of My Body. The accompanying video finds Grrrl prime, showing that its shtick has not gone pears on the midtempo “Superpower” and hus- Lambert at a coffee shop, eyeing a barista. Ex- missing since the last effort, 1999’s Electric Love’ on Dec. 27 band Jay-Z is on the dreadful “Drunk in Love.” pect a full-length debut in 2014 on Capitol Re- Honey. “#1 Bum” is from the comeback album With exclusive access to composer Mar- Beyonce’s daughter Blue Ivy has a cameo on cords. Lambert showcases a positive image for Magic Hour. vin Hamlisch’s personal archival treasure “Blue.” The lead single, “XO,” is very pop, yet all body types, as seen on two versions of “Body Centaur Music’s Outright series is making sure trove and complete cooperation from his is forward-thinking for the “Single Ladies” su- Love” and her collection of poetry, 500 Tips for my workout playlist never gets tired. There are family, Dramatic Forces and THIRTEEN’s perstar. “Jealous” ranks as my favorite here with Fat Girls. three exceptional installments; Outright Tea American Masters explore his life and ca- its stripped-down electronic arrangements. Even The British rock quartet Bastille manages to Dance, Outright ‘90s and Outright Divas. These reer in the series’ season 27 finale, Marvin though released earlier than planned, Beyonce keep its credibility with the track “Of the Night,” continuous mixes contain updated remakes of Hamlisch: What He Did For Love, premier- debuted on top of the charts. which is a clever medley of the euro-dance songs memorable classics, keeping the best traits of ing nationally on PBS Friday, Dec. 27. On Light Sweet Crude (Act 1: Hybrid), Vanessa “Rhythm of the Night” by Corona and “Rhythm the originals intact. Tea Dance cherishes big In the first film biography about Ham- Daou puts her music into motion. “Revolution” is a Dancer” by Snap. The song became a huge choruses, as heard on “If You Could Read My lisch, award-winning filmmaker and four- has strings with a groove that the body can- hit overseas and can be found only on the forth- Mind” and “Oh L’amour,” as well as reinterpre- time Tony Award-winning Broadway pro- not resist. On “Danger Ahead,” Daou opens with coming extended edition All This Bad Blood. tations of Heather Small’s anthem “Proud” and ducer Dori Berinstein presents an insider spoken word as if at a beat club, then steps next Bastille topped the alternative charts stateside Christina Aguilera’s showstopper “Beautiful.” portrait, complete with interviews with door to a lounge once the slick electronic beat with “Pompeii,” which has a catchy chant as its The ‘90s summarizes the eclectic decade with Hamlisch’s family and such figures as Bar- sneaks in. Love is many things. hook. Bad Blood also boasts noteworthy cuts new versions of Black Box’s “Strike It Up,” Am- bra Streisand, Carly Simon, Steven Soder- Daou creatively illustrates the powerful emo- like “Overjoyed,” “Icarus” and “Laura Palmer.” ber’s “Sexual” and Olive’s “You’re Not Alone.” bergh, Quincy Jones and Ann-Margret, tion and then silences the opposition by unveil- As part of the Rock ‘N’ Roll Ball, JC Brooks & Some of the sirens saluted on Divas are Aretha among many others. ing love’s universal definition on the standout the Uptown Sound will perform to its home- Franklin, Whitney Houston, P!nk and Cher. Cen- See www.pbs.org/americanmasters. “Love Is War” by singing, “Love is peace, love town crowd on Tuesday, Dec. 31 at Montrose taur Music’s Outright collections can be found at is war. Love is what we’re fighting for.” “One Room, 5300 N. River Rd., Rosemont. The soulful theoutclub.com and on iTunes. Think I’m Missing” finds her mesmerizing and

New Year’s Eve with MOULIN ROUGE! Ring in the New Year with: *A Screening of the Film *Live Entertainment *Champagne Toast at Midnight *Cash Bar *And Much Much More! DEC 31st at 9:30 ** TICKETS AVAILABLE AT MUSICBOXTHEATRE.COM ** 16 Dec. 25, 2013 WINDY CITY TIMES My eight minutes with Britney Spears Pop star on (not) being a gay icon, addressed until now—can empathize with the plight of growing up gay. feeling like an outsider and that “Alien,” one of the most self-reflective tracks ‘adorable and hilarious’ comment on Britney Jean, alludes to her own feelings of being an outcast, of being alone, of being Brit- By Chris Azzopardi ney Spears: “Had to get used to the world I was on / While yet still unsure if I knew where I It’s Britney, bitch. belong / That was then, like an alien.” No, really, it was. She was on the phone. And “The song is basically about when you’re all Britney Spears—the meek, reserved, media-shy alone and you feel like you’re alienated from the entertainer—doesn’t get on the phone with world,” Spears said. “I think it’s human nature; press very often these days. we all innately do that sometimes and keep to She spoke to me from L.A. on a busy day full of ourselves, and that’s what the song is about.” frenzied promo leading up to her eighth release, It was during her second release, 2000’s Oops! Britney Jean, when she drops the word that elic- ... I Did It Again, with its self-empowerment ited eye rolls from some in the gay community. mantra “Stronger,” that she recognized a big gay The word is “adorable,” and Spears—who, in a following. “I really started noticing more com- radio interview with San Francisco radio station ing to the shows,” Spears recalled. “People were 99.7 NOW FM, used it to describe her beauty emulating my clothes and wearing the same out- team (they’re also “hilarious,” she said at the fits, and it was just really fun.” time)—mentioned it to me when I ask her how Through the years, she’s met many of these wild the gay boys go when they’re in the midst gay boys after shows, where, she said, “a couple of their pop princess. of them have told me about their heartbreaks “They’re adorable,” said Spears, 32. “They’re and shared stories about their boyfriends, which absolutely adorable.” has been really kind of sweet.” It seemed like an appropriate time to tell her I told her we relate to people who fall down Britney Spears. Photo by Michelangelo Di Battista how that “adorable and hilarious” comment and get right back up. Britney, for all her suc- went viral and rubbed some the wrong way. cess, has been to the top, but not without see- “Wait, what? Who felt the other way?” she ing the bottom. Between 2006 and 2008, Spears distracted. Billboard Awards, or the legendary Madonna lip- asked, sincerely concerned she’s offended peo- divorced Kevin Federline, fought tirelessly for I ask about Las Vegas, where she’s launching lock at the Video Music Awards? ple, and even a little lost. You get the impres- the custody of her two boys and sobered up at a her two-year residency, Britney: Piece of Me, at There’s brief silence, a “thank you” and then sion Britney Spears doesn’t Google herself. drug rehab facility. There was also the panty-less Planet Hollywood. a sudden click. That’s it. Our eight minutes to- So, I filled her in. partying, the British accent, the head-shaving Expect half-naked men—she said, because ob- gether. “I would never say anything to be mean to and the time she attacked a paparazzo with viously—but also “look forward to a really good And just like that, Britney Spears gave exactly them. I love my gay fans. Gay people are always an umbrella. Life was looking bleak for Britney time. They’re gonna definitely feel like they’re a what she promised: a piece of her. usually my best friends in the whole world,” she then, and she knew it. On “Piece of Me,” a track part of a show.” Chris Azzopardi is the editor of Q Syndicate, said. “I completely adore them.” off Blackout, Spears called herself “Miss Bad Me- Milking every second of my scheduled 10 min- the international LGBT wire service. Reach Considering the pop star’s clout in the gay dia Karma.” utes with her by sneaking in one final question, him via his website at www.chris-azzopardi. community, it’s obviously mutual. From the But when she talks about the time she felt I asked her which girl kiss she preferred: the com. then-17-year-old’s sexually suggestive breakout alienated, there’s no mention of this more recent cheek peck Rihanna gave her during the 2011 hit “... Baby One More Time”—when the once- regrettable history. It’s clear—not just from our Mouseketeer, dressed in that iconic Catholic chat, but the rare times she’s been on the phone schoolgirl getup, merged childhood innocence with a journalist in the last five years—that she with the onset of sexual desire—to “Toxic,” doesn’t care to look back. For the most part, New trans art awards easily one of the greatest gay club jams of the anyway. aughts, Spears has influenced the queens and “Since I was in high school, I’ve been kind of queers of the dance floor as much as they’ve in- a shy person,” Spears admitted to me. recognizes Chicagoans fluenced her. I asked, “Would you say you felt like an out- “I get inspiration from them on almost all of sider then?” BY KATE SOSIN my songs,” Spears said of her gay fans. “They’re Her voice dropped. “A little bit, yeah.” somewhat girls, so it’s so inspiring to do stuff Because she felt different as a kid, but also, Chicago’s transgender community has gained that they like to hear, like the cool ‘in’ stuff. of course, musically—Spears, despite her pub- national visibility in recent years for its ac- Whatever I do for each record is definitely in- lic ups and downs, has been a mainstay in the tivism on housing and legal issues, but its spired by them.” queer scene for the last 15 years—I wonder if artists have been less visible. That could be If you’ve heard 2007’s defiantly bold Blackout Britney considers herself what many call her: a changing, thanks to a new award spotlighting and its pop-dance follow-up Circus, and then, gay icon. four local artists. obviously, Femme Fatale, you know Britney isn’t “I don’t know about that,” she said, surpris- Trans Chicago artists KOKUMO, Andre Perez, just full of it. These are really gay albums. But ingly frank. “But I know I do have gay fans.” H. Melt and Dalice Malice are recipients of her gayest? Is it Britney Jean? I remind her that a large part of the commu- Museum of Transgender Hirstory & Art Awards “I would say so, yes,” Spears said, sounding nity sees her as a gay icon. (MOTHA Awards). almost unsure, as if the gayness exists equitably Her response? “That’s nice. I don’t know about The awards, in their first year, aim to bring “I’m asking people to imagine with me what on all her releases (and, really, it does). “I just that.” visibility to trans artists nationally. They were could exist,” said Vargas. feel like it has that feeling. You can’t really put But surely she’s thought about her status in created by Chris E. Vargas, a transgender art- Chicago MOTHA Award winners included: your finger on it. It just really has that feeling the gay community, right? ist and filmmaker. —KOKUMO (KOKUMOMedia.com) of ... that.” “Not really, no.” “I just don’t see a lot of opportunities for Musician of the Year, alongside Big Freedia “Work Bitch” has the feeling of “that”—of What about equal marriage? Would Britney like trans artists to be recognized for their work,” and Rae Spoon gay—so much so that Spears herself has said to see her gay friends—she tells me later, via said Vargas. “I wanted to give that oppor- New Upcoming Artist of the Year, alongside it’s a salute to her queer fans. The title is “a email, that she has an “amazing” relationship tunity to people in the most inclusive way Hannah Barrett, Erika Bijeljic, Imogen Binnie term of endearment” and was inspired by gay with them, many of which are her dancers—get possible but from a critical stance.” and Morgan M. Page patter among her pals. What other queer street married? Vargas held an open-nomination process —Trans Oral History Project, of which Andre slang has she picked up from them? “Yeah,” she said. Then silence. (I give her the online in September and October, taking in Perez is the founder (http://transoralhistory. She snickered, letting her Louisiana drawl fully opportunity to elaborate over email after our nearly 100 names in 16 categories. Winners com) flex: “I don’t really know that much. I mean, I phone chat: “Yeah, it would be a special mo- were chosen by popular vote in November. Archives of the Year, alongside Center for hang out with gays all the time. They always ment.”) Vargas said that due to close votes, each Sex and Culture surprise me. It changes weekly, you know?” “So you believe gay people deserve equal award saw multiple recipients. —Dalice Malice (dalicemalice.com) and H. “The slang you learn?” I asked, just to be rights?” The awards are among the first projects for Melt clear. “Yeah,” she assured. (Via email: “I think ev- the museum, which Vargas describes as “con- Unrecognized Artist of the Year, Her- “Yeah.” eryone should be treated equally.”) ceptual” in that it remains online, instead of mit, alongside Malic Amalya, Elliott DeLine, So maybe Britney doesn’t watch RuPaul’s Drag At this point, seven minutes into the conver- housed in a physical space. Vargas is build- Raphaële Frigon, Nicki Green, Mirha-Soleil Race on the regular, maybe she isn’t out getting sation, a publicist grabbed Spears’ attention. ing an archive for the museum and would like Ross, Thu Ha Vu, Tobaron Waxman and Quito all crazy at the gay clubs (she tells me that be- She told me to hang on a second. Because she’s showcase transgender art history. But the Ziegler ing a mom doesn’t allow for nights out with her getting whisked away for a Britney Jean listen- founding of the museum is intended to create More information on MOTHA is available at: friends at queer bars, but before children: “Yeah, ing session that she’s already late to, “This has potential more than anything, Vargas said. sfmotha.org. always”), but part of her—a part she’s not really to be the last question,” she informed, sounding WINDY CITY TIMES Dec. 25, 2013 17 2012-13 season with the Washington Wizards, and has also played for the Boston Celtics, Min- Looking back: Sports & nesota Timberwolves, New Jersey Nets, Atlanta Hawks, and Memphis Grizzlies. Collins made the announcement in an interview with Sports Il- Entertainment 2013 lustrated. —Novel idea: Kevin Keller, the gay charac- COMPILED BY ANDREW DAVIS ter introduced in the pages of Archie Comics in —”Heart” felt: HBO announced that it will 2011, has his own novel. The hardcover young adapt the Tony-winning Larry Kramer play The adult novel, simply titled Kevin, is from Penguin Normal Heart. The movie will star Julia Roberts Books. The novel is written by comic and chil- and Mark Ruffalo in the key roles, along with dren’s book author Paul Kupperberg, who also out actor Matt Bomer (White Collar). Glee cre- penned the popular Life With Archie issue that ator Ryan Murphy will direct the film, which depicted an adult Keller marrying his partner. will feature Roberts as Dr. Emma Brookner, the —Ups and downs: NBC cancelled the Broad- paraplegic physician who treats several of the way-centered show Smash after two seasons, and earliest victims of the disease. Ruffalo portrays also dropped The New Normal, the Ryan Murphy- Ned Weeks; Bomer plays Felix Turner, a reporter produced show about a gay couple. Meanwhile, who becomes Weeks’ lover. The Normal Heart will ABC renewed Modern Family, Once Upon a Time, run in 2014. Scandal, Suburgatory, Grey’s Anatomy, Castle —She runs the world: This was arguably the and Nashville, but cancelled Body of Proof, Red year of Beyonce: She went on tour, performed at Widow and the comedy Happy Endings. halftime of the Super Bowl (which had a notable —Oh, the “Horror”: The third season of the power failure in the second half), premiered her FX show American Horror Story—called Ameri- Jason Collins. Photo by Ross Forman HBO documentary , caused a “controversy” over can Horror Story: Coven—featured actresses possible lip-synching at the presidential inau- Patti LuPone and Angela Bassett. Producer Ryan shows of the year was the Netflix series Orange guration; and (without any fanfare) released a Murphy (who also helms Glee) tweeted, “Two Is the New Black. The black comedy focuses on self-titled CD that broke a record on iTunes. Carrie Underwood starred in The Sound of Mu- legends are joining the cast of American Hor- Piper Chapman (Taylor Schilling), an engaged —Foster wild: Actress/director Jodie Foster sic Live! ror Story: Coven —Oscar nominee Angela Bas- woman living in New York City who is sentenced raised some eyebrows at the 70th annual Gold- sett and Tony winner Patti LuPone!” LuPone to 15 months in a women’s federal prison for en Globes. In an speech of the Cecil B. DeMille as a gay man, I must decline.” Miller went on and Bassett joned Sarah Paulson, Evan Peters transporting a suitcase full of drug money to her Award that some loved and others derided, she to call the atmosphere in Russia toward LGBT and Frances Conroy as well as new actors Kathy former girlfriend—an international drug smug- thanked her ex-partner and co-parent, Cydney people and their allies “in no way acceptable.” Bates and Gabourey Sidibe (Precious). It’s been gler. Trans actress Laverne Cox was a particular Bernard (they have two sons), but added that —Star turn: Lesbian actress Jane Lynch re- renewed for a fourth season. standout on the show. she has lived virtually her entire life in the pub- ceived a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. —Returning: Ellen DeGeneres confirmed that —Mello Bello: Actress Maria Bello revealed lic eye and wanted to keep some things private. The actress received star number 2,505 at the she’ll host the Academy Awards for the second that she is in a lesbian relationship in a New —”Dead” resurrected: Lifetime dropped LGBT unveiling Sept. 4, accompanied by Glee creator time in 2014. She previously hosted the 2007 York Times essay Dec. 1, making an appeal to fave Drop Dead Diva after four seasons. However, Ryan Murphy. Murphy said of Lynch, “She is the Oscars, which earned her an Emmy nomination. be embraced for her own “modern family.” Bello fan reaction over the show (about an attorney hardest-working person on the set... she makes The show will air March 2. wrote that she struggled with revealing to her played by Brooke Elliot) resulted in the channel everybody better and everybody happier. She is —I’m coming out: Actress Raven-Symone 12-year-old son her relationship with a woman bringing it back. one of the comedy greats in our business—a came out, voicing her support on marriage who happened to be her closest friend. However, —Soy it isn’t so: Former pro football player true class act.” equality via Twitter Aug. 2 and saying she’s she also urged a broader definition of sexuality Kwame Harris faces felony domestic violence —The hills are alive: NBC aired The Sound thrilled to finally be able to wed. She tweeted, and love than what currently passes for social charges for allegedly beating an ex-boyfriend of Music Live! Dec. 5, with Carrie Underwood as “I can finally get married! Yay government! So norms. in the parking lot of a Menlo Park, Calif., res- Maria von Trapp. (It followed the 1959 Broad- proud of you.” Read the entire roundup online at www. taurant after arguing over, among other things, way production of the Rodgers and Hammerstein —Orange you glad?: One of the biggest WindyCityMediaGroup.com. soy sauce. Harris, 31, was found guilty of misde- musical rather than the movie.) Reaction was meanor domestic violence, battery and assault. mixed, to say the least, but it was a ratings gold —Being Frank: Out R&B singer Frank Ocean mine for NBC. won two Grammys at the 55th annual Grammy —I get a kick out of you: Abby Wambach, Awards that were aired on CBS Feb. 10. Pro-LGBT one of the most successful and decorated female group fun. won Song of the Year for “We Are soccer players in history, confirmed Wednesday, Young” (which features Janelle Monae). Oct. 9, that she is gay—and that she married A NEW LECTURE SERIES WINDY CITY TIMES —All the way Clive: Legendary music pro- fellow soccer player Sarah Huffman. They mar- PRESENTED BY & CENTER ON HALSTED ducer Clive Davis—who signed Whitney Houston ried Oct. 5 in Hawaii. and Bruce Springsteen, among many others— —What a Card: Pro-LGBT negatively reacted came out as bisexual in a new book. In his new to the opening of the film Ender’s Game—pri- Lavender University is a 9-month memoir, The Soundtrack of My Life, Davis details marily because anti-gay activist and former lecture series featuring top academic long-term, monogamous relationships with men board member of the National Organization for and activist LGBTQs working on a wide range of research and interests. It is for the past two decades. Davis writes that his Marriage Orson Scott Card, 62, was a credited NeXt lecture first same-sex encounter was during “the era of sponsored by Windy City Times and producer on Lionsgate Entertainment’s adapta- Sat., Jan. 4, 2014, 11am-1pm Center on Halsted. Studio 54” and wrote that being with a man pro- tion of Card’s sci-fi novel. At last report, the vided “welcome relief.” film had yet to break even from its $110-million HYACINTH PIEL —Going Gaga: It was an interesting year budget. for entertainer and LGBT icon Lady Gaga. She Ethical Problems in Gender Identity Construction —Shocked, I tell you: Singer Michelle Hyacinth Piel is a graduate student in philosophy at UIC. Ze lives in had to cancel part of her tour after injuring her Shocked—who came out as bisexual in Outlines Edgewater with hir corgi, Poggibonsi. This lecture begins with the idea that hip. However, she stayed in the news, thanks in newspaper (which purchased and merged with as people who seek to lead good and authentic lives, we are repeatedly part to her CD (which didn’t sell as well as some Windy City Times in 2000) two decades ago— confronted with profound and difficult questions about how best to develop, hoped/expected) as well as continuing colorful told a San Francisco crowd that “God hates fags” identify, and express our genders. Although our genders are uniquely our own existential award-show appearances and performances. and that she lives in fear of same-sex marriage. projects, they are never only that: the way we live our genders is bound to affect others too, —Neil appeal: Openly gay actor Neil Patrick In the wake of that, her tour was cancelled. She and since our existing gender templates are deeply influenced by the oppressive gender Harris again endeared himself to audiences, reportedly tried to have the anti-gay rant erased hierarchy from which they are drawn, it looks like the building blocks we must use to through his show How I Met Your Mother and from YouTube. by hosting the Tonys (for the fourth time in five —Here’s “Looking” at you: HBO shot a pilot develop genders in which we can be free may also tend to threaten the freedom and well- years) and Emmys. for Looking, a series about gay thirtysomethings being of those around us. —Piano man: Buzz swelled around the HBO in San Francisco. The script was written by Mi- movie Behind the Candelabra, which was based chael Lannan, who helped produce Remember on the late Liberace’s autobiographical novel, as Me, and Interior. Leather Bar., a San Francisco- Sat., 2/1/14 Sat., 4/5/14 soon as production was announced. Premiering based experimental gay flick by Travis Matthews. Beth Richie Anne Balay May 26, the movie (which starred Michael Doug- In addition, it stars Jonathan Groff, the openly Arrested Justice: Black Women, Violence Steel Closets: Gay, Lesbian, and las as Liberace and Matt Damon as his much- gay actor famous for playing Jesse St. James on and America’s Prison Nation Transgender Steelworkers younger lover Scott Thorson) has won numer- the TV show Glee. The show will debut in Janu- ous awards, and will likely increase its haul in Sat., 5/3/14 ary 2014. Sat., 3/1/14 2014 at the Screen Actors Guild Awards and the —Magic moment: Basketball legend Magic Timothy Stewart-Winter Golden Globes. Johnson’s gay son went public with his romance. Lourdes Torres From Civil Rights to Gay Rights in Making Familia from Scratch: —Miller time: Actor Wentworth Miller came Earvin Johnson III, one of Magic’s three chil- Chicago out as gay in a letter he wrote denouncing Rus- dren, stepped out hand-in-hand with an uniden- Towards a History of Latina Lesbian sia’s anti-gay law. Miller, known for his role on Organizing in Chicago tified boyfriend on Los Angeles’ Sunset Strip. upc OMING lectureS $25 per lecture the television show Prison Break, declined an —Making history: The NBA’s Jason Collins invitation to participate in the St. Petersburg made history by coming out as gay—the first International Film Festival. In his letter, Miller time an NBA player has done so while still ac- https://community.centeronhalsted.org/lavenderuniversity wrote, “Thank you for your kind invitation ... tively playing. Collins, a center, finished the 18 Dec. 25, 2013 WINDY CITY TIMES HAPPY HOLIDAYS FROM WE HEART PETS! A special thanks to everyone who submitted pet photos for this year’s installment. May you enjoy the warmth and companionship of your pets this holiday season.

Wilson & Cooper Spunky, Lula, Rascal & Kirby

Corona Disco, SweetPea, Peanut & Patron

Teva

Topo & Bowie Bridget & Digby

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Greta Bailey & Maggie Buddy

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cold December night, and I’m pretty sure I’ll be Frenchie Davis: back for a few more before Chicago emerges from its deep freeze. From reality TV to the high sea Now, all of this is not to say that the food by Sarah Toce is an afterthought at Brixton. There’s a small selection of upscale bar bites like popcorn with Franchell “Frenchie” Davis presents as a spiritual bacon powder and chives and peanuts gussied powerhouse female, composed of both vim and up with sumac and mint. Or, nibble on high- vigor with a splash of uncompromising vivacity. Brixton end small plates like mussels and sweetbreads. Early on, in 2002, her career was nearly stunted I particularly enjoyed the crab dip. The creamy when American Idol executives made the deci- BY Meghan Streit mixture is served at room temperature in a tiny sion to cut her at the proverbial knees on stage mason jar. The best part is the artichoke and in light of her admission to racy photos pre- The Clark Street space that once housed In Fine pearl onion relish it’s topped with, which pro- spotlight. Spirits restaurant and bar (the liquor store by vides a tangy acidic contrast to the sweet crab. No harm, no foul. Frenchie’s next consecutive the same name remains in the building next It’s served with paper-thin olive oil-soaked cros- move would prove to be bigger and better than door) has been like a revolving door over the tini, which are great for dipping. her appearance on the FOX show in its second last couple of years. A few weeks after In Fine You can also get a bona fide meal here. The season, anyway. Spirits unceremoniously shuttered in early 2012, entree choices are limited and straightforward, Broadway. The Great White Way. Frenchie’s Premise, a mercifully brief failed experiment in but, from what I can tell, expertly prepared. The road. That last one was made up, but apropos bizarre and overpriced cuisine, took over. Next hanger steak is a worthwhile $25 indulgence nonetheless. The passionate persona that so came Brasserie 54, a charming but modern (cheap for a nice steak, but expensive for bar often caught controlling chiefs off-guard had French bistro with a sexy cocktail lounge up- food). The steak is prepared in classic “sous paid off nicely. She landed the role of a lifetime stairs. Like Premise before it, Brasserie 54 didn’t vide” style, which means it is essentially boiled in Jonathan Larson’s famed musical RENT. From have that je ne sais quoi that it takes to win in a vacuum-sealed bag until it reaches the min- there, she embodied the role of Effie White in over discerning but loyal Andersonville diners— imum temperature safe for human consumption Dreamgirls, also on Broadway, before joining the it closed down within six months of opening. and then it is given a quick sear on each side. cast of Ain’t Misbehavin’. This last role would A week or so ago, Brixton opened in the seem- Wow! I was expecting an average and possibly result in a Grammy nomination for the artist. ingly doomed space. No doubt the owners, who tough steak and what I got was one of the most In spite of her previous reality television let- down, it was time to give it another go-round on a different stage—The Voice—with celebrity judges Adam Levine, Cee Lo Green, Christina Aguilera and Blake Shelton. Davis performed “I Kissed a Girl” by Katy Perry and the crowd roared with excitement. She had advanced to the next round as a member of Aguilera’s team of eight. Ultimately, she would place fifth in the singing competition and begin touring. Windy City Times: American Idol and The Voice—many artists would love to be on ei- ther of them, and you were on both. Frenchie Davis: American Idol was over 10 years ago! It baffles me that people still want to talk about it. Frenchie Davis. WCT: How did you feel about the dynamics on the set of The Voice? FD: The ladies’ room. There is something hys- FD: I think The Voice is a great show, concep- terical about finding yourself in a public bath- tually, but I think it’s sad that the only artists room saying things like, “....Sure! I’ll take a pic- Brixton. Photo by Shira Kollins who seem to truly reap any benefits from be- ture with you. Um, let me just wash my hands ing on the show are the judges. At least Idol first…” also reportedly own The Drum and Monkey, are tender and succulent pieces of beef that’s ever had their winners on magazine covers and tried WCT: What causes and charities are close to hoping third time truly is the charm. It doesn’t melted in my mouth. Flavorful chanterelle mush- to push their music. People win The Voice and your heart? appear that they’ve gone to great lengths to re- rooms pair nicely with the hanger steak. And as you never really hear from them again. But all FD: Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS and vamp the decor. Brixton has the same dark floor- a finishing touch, bone marrow and brown but- the judges get to debut their new music on the any cause having to do with building the esteem ing, low lighting and simple modern aesthetics ter béarnaise are smeared on the plate in what show. [There are] strange dynamics over there. of young people. of its predecessors. They have, however, inex- looks at first glance like the world’s smallest WCT: Do you think that being a strong wom- WCT: If you could inspire a generation with plicably, replaced all normal sized dining tables scoop of mashed potatoes and gravy. In fact, it’s an is the best way to make it in Hollywood? only five words, what would they be? on the main floor with eight gargantuan booths. a delicious and decadent sauce in which to dip a How has it served you or harmed you? FD: Never. Apologize. For. Being. You. They are covered in a subtle masculine plaid fab- delectable steak. FD: I think being a strong woman is the only WCT: Sweet is going to Cozumel and you’ll ric that works nicely from a design perspective. I also enjoyed the scallops, which are seared way to make it in life. Celebrity comes and goes. be on board! How did this partnership arise? But, if you are a party of two or four, your only to a deep golden brown on the top and smeared The necessity of being ok with what you see in FD: My musical best friend and pianist, Kath- main floor seating option is one of these gigan- with generous portion of rich black truffles. The the mirror does not. I think in the beginning ryn, [did] Sweet before and she thought they tic booths (or a stool at the bar), which just scallops are served atop a slab of nicely sea- I was afraid that being so outspoken may be would totally dig our Pop Cabaret: The French feels awkward. And, as the place becomes more soned cauliflower with leeks and parmesan. It’s harmful to my career, but I soon discovered that And Kat Show. crowded, I imagine the lack of seating could be- a tasty dish, if not particularly memorable. The I wasn’t afraid enough to stop being outspoken. WCT: What can your fans expect if they book come a logistical nightmare. entree portions are on the small side and by and Now my outspokenness is starting to open all a ticket to your concert on the sea? The guys behind Brixton have chosen to emu- large not served with any sort of starchy sides— kinds of doors. FD: They can expect me to serve Broadway- late one aspect that I believe made our beloved good for the waistline, bad for soaking up all WCT: You starred in RENT on Broadway. How meets-Britney with Clair Huxtable realness, In Fine Spirits a success: the focus here is in- of that booze. My recommendation is to order a did that show’s message of love, forgiveness, along with a dash of Bach and a teaspoon of disputably on the cocktails. They’ve got a nice basket of fries. They are crisp and well seasoned triumph and struggle affect you personally? Kander and Ebb. They can expect to laugh out list of craft cocktails that incorporates the stuff and go perfectly with the hangar steak. Add a FD: There are so many stories. Recovering ad- loud and enjoy some SANGIN! Not singing— of modern mixology that we’ve come to know big old glass of robust red wine and you’ve got a dicts who would come to the show religiously; SANGIN’! and love: egg whites, rhubarb bitters, ginger quintessential hearty winter meal. The aioli that Jonathan Larson’s parents and the bond we have WCT: Music is obviously a huge inspiration beer, thyme, infused rye, mint, Fresno chiles— comes with the fries is funky tasting in a bad with them; the young people who would sleep of yours. What are some of your current pet you name it. Bottles of wine veer a tad toward way. So, for the first time in my life, I opted for outside of the theatre every night to get tick- peeves about the music industry? the pricy side, but there’s an ample selection ketchup over aioli—a relatively minor misstep ets... The list goes on. There are no words to FD: My biggest pet peeve about the music of mostly American varietals by the glass that in an otherwise thoroughly pleasant meal. describe what it felt like to get on that stage industry is that it tends to be about a lot of range from $6 to $12. Further evidence that I enjoyed my first experience at Brixton and, every night to do what we love to do, knowing bullshit having absolutely nothing to do with booze is front and center at Brixton is the fact as an Andersonville resident, I can see myself that we were touching people’s lives the way we music, itself. that they have no edible desserts -- not a single visiting again. Whether this newcomer has what were. It was a spiritual experience. WCT: When you seek calm and clarity, where piece of cake or scoop of gelato in sight. But, if it takes to become a go-to neighborhood joint WCT: Do you find that you can still relate to do you turn? you don’t mind drinking your dessert, you’re all remains to be seen. the struggling artist mentality post-fame and FD: The water. I live a mile from the very set. They’ve got a hot cocktail made with bour- The Brixton is located at 5420 N. Clark St.; recognition? ocean I was baptized in as a girl. It’s my happy bon and condensed milk, a strangely delicious call 773-961-7358. FD: Honey! As long as I am Black, female and place. When I go for walks on the beach and I eggnog-like concoction. It’s topped with an egg Do you need some more Sugar & Spice in openly LGBT in Hollywood, the struggle remains hear those waves crashing, it’s really difficult to white and sugar mixture that coagulates into a your life? Follow me on Twitter: @SugarAnd- very real. feel stressed about anything. sort of “frosting.” Despite my initial skepticism, SpiceMS—for inside scoop and commentary WCT: Where is the funniest place you’ve Find out more about Frenchie Davis in Co- I thoroughly enjoyed my hot liquid dessert on a on Chicago’s dining scene. been recognized? zumel by visiting http://discoversweet.com. Turn to page 26

20 Dec. 25, 2013 WINDY CITY TIMES

Tuesday, Dec. 31 sted http://www.scarletbarchicago.com Bi discussion group Every other Tuesday we You’re The Star Karaoke with Honey West get together to chat about upcoming bi- Join hostess with the mostess, Honey sexual events, concerns, and answer each West for You’re The Star Karaoke, 10pm in CALENDAR other’s questions about the community. Roscoe’s front bar. Take your place in the Soft drinks & water are provided by the spotlight! There’s not a bad seat in the Brought to you by the Center, but feel free to bring anything else house. 10:00pm Roscoe’s Tavern 3356 N combined efforts of you’d like to share, whether it’s snacks or Halsted St http://www.roscoes.com a good book! 7:00pm Center on Halsted Pumped Each Wednesday Minibar lets you 3656 N Halsted http://www.centeronhal- spoil your self with hot entertainment and Wed., Dec. 25 com sted.org surprises around every corner. 9:00pm Minibar 3341 N Halsted St., http://www. Red Cup Party Every Wednesday. Featuring Christmas Dearest A Joan Crawford Christ- Unlock Your Future New Year’s Eve night minibarchicago.com/#!events/c9qb DJ Cooper Thomas and tasty drink spe- mas Carol. Hell in a Handbag is proud to of fun and friends with Equality Illinois. cials. 9:00pm Scarlet Bar 3320 N Hal- introduce Chicago to a new holiday show Champagne Toast at midnight, noisemak- sted http://www.scarletbarchicago.com that is sure to be a camp holiday, classic ers and leis. Fabulous door prizes cour- Saturday, Jan. 4 POWER OF THREE Ethical Problems in Gender Identity Con- You’re The Star Karaoke with Honey West tells the tale of Hollywood superstar, Joan tesy of Orbitz travel. Complimentary coat struction Hyacinth Piel. Part of Lavender Join hostess with the mostess, Honey Crawford and the important lessons she check. Limited Valet Parking available at Through Jan. 5 University LGBTQ programs, a nine-month West for You’re The Star Karaoke, 10pm in learns one Christmas Eve. 7:30pm Mary’s Sidetrack the evening of the event. Your series of LGBTQ educational programs Roscoe’s front bar. Take your place in the Attic 5400 N Clark http://www.brownpa- contribution supports Equality Illinois. We Three Lizas is featuring prominent scholars known na- spotlight! There’s not a bad seat in the pertickets.com/event/455598 Contributions are not tax-deductible. running at Stage 773, tionally for their innovative research and house. 10:00pm Roscoe’s Tavern 3356 N Taverna 750 Five-Dollar Late Night Friday 7:00pm Sidetrack 3349 N Halsted St work. Reservations online or tickets at 1225 W. Belmont Ave. Halsted St http://www.roscoes.com Taverna 750’s popular Friday $5 late night http://www.sidetrackchicago.com menu features the perfect treat to end or NYE 2014: Royalty Takes Over Countdown door. Questions to publisher@windycity- Photo by Michael Brosilow mediagroup.com or lkarlic@centeronhal- Thursday, Dec. 26 prolong your evening. 11:00pm-1:30am to the New Year with Chicago’s very own sted.org 11:00am - 1:00pm Center on Rudolph the Red-Hosed Reindeer David 11:00pm Taverna 750 750 W. Cornelia royals: current reigning Ms. Continental Halsted 3656 N Halsted Tickets: https:// Cerda’s parody of the classic children’s Ave., http://www.Taverna750.com Naysha Lopez and current reigning Miss community.centeronhalsted.org/lavende- television special “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Continental Plus Farra N Hyte and party runiversity Reindeer”. Now celebrating its 15th year, Saturday, Dec. 28 the whole the night away to the sounds Welcoming the New Year with SoulCol- Rudolph the Red-Hosed Reindeer is the Saturday Brunch at Taverna 750 Not every- and beats of DJ Laura B. $50 or VIP IN/ lage� The beginning of a new year brings longest running holiday show featuring one can do Sunday-Funday, so by popular OUT Privileges. Service fee. 8:00pm http://www.brownpapertickets.com hope for a fresh start and the energy for a transvestite reindeer in the history of demand Taverna 750’s Martini Brunch is - 4:00am Hydrate Nightclub 3458 N manifesting goals and intentions. This Chicago. $12- $22 Thurs. - Sat. until Dec. available on Saturday’s too. 11:00am - Halsted http://www.hydratechicago.com workshop will provide you with an op- Monday, Jan. 13 30 7:30pm Mary’s Attic 5400 N Clark 2:00pm Taverna 750 750 West Cornelia Tickets: http://www.brownpapertickets. portunity to take a look at what’s stirring On Grace & Politics: Conversation with http://www.brownpapertickets.com/ Ave http://www.taverna750.com com/event/524830 within and a chance to give voice to those Anna Deavere Smith, Toni Preckwinkle event/131657 Boobs of the Dead: A Walking Dead Bur- New Year’s Eve Monster’s Ball Guests Part of Anna Deavere Smith and cellist desires. Take a few hours of dedicated We Three Lizas Fresh from a concert at lesque Parody of the popular Walking dressed in their most horrific, startling Joshua Roman’s work-in-progress play time to activate your inner guidance and Joe’s Pub in New York City with a re- Dead television series. 11:45pm Gorilla attire ring in 2014 with the ghosts and On Grace. Smith is known for her one- let your creative juices flow. Contact Shari vamped book and expanded score, last Tango Theatre 1919 N Milwaukee Ave ghouls of Stage 773. $70 per person/$120 woman performances that meld theater, to reserve your spot today! 12:00pm - year’s sparkly, queer holiday hit is back… 773-598-4549 http://www.gorillas.com/ per couple. Unlimited specialty drinks, di- journalism and social commentary. Toni 4:00pm 4400 W. Lawrence Ave., http:// and better than ever! Box maker Conrad zombies abolically delicious appetizers, live music Preckwinkle is Cook County Board Presi- www.soulcollage.com/finder/wc/Chicago Ticklebottom’s life has hit a block. Once, and a haunted house. 9:00pm - 2:00am dent. Free and open to the public. Walk- Sunday, Dec. 29 Stage 773 1225 W Belmont 773-327- Conrad and his purple box ignited an en- Tuesday, Jan. 7 ups welcome; reservations recommended. tire movement in art and design, but now Beers, Boys and Beats Who Needs A’s When 5252 http://www.Stage773.com 7:00pm Reva and David Logan Center for Intersex Chicago Intersex people physi- he finds himself alone, forgotten and tee- You Can Get B’s! Beers, Boys and Beats Replay/Reboot A New Year’s Eve Party to the Arts 915 E. 60th St Tickets: http:// cally differ from the “standard” male and tering on ruin. The holidays bring three at Roscoe’s. Beers! $1 Miller Lite Drafts. benefit Lambda Legal with DJ Moose pro- www.eventbrite.com/e/on-grace-poli- female. Intersex Chicago is a safe, confi- magical figures to his door - a trio of Liza Boys! Male Call at 5pm. Beats! Via VJ Bob- viding a full on 80s soundtrack remixed tics-a-conversation-with-anna-deavere- dential meetup for all intersex people and Minnellis to escort him on a fabulous jour- by Marley 2:00pm Roscoe’s Tavern 3356 and rebooted for 2014 all night long. Hors smith-and-toni-preckwinkle-registration- their allies in the Chicago area. Meet other ney through what-was, what-could-be and N Halsted St http://www.roscoes.com d’deuvres and top shelf drink package plus 9621521229?utm_campaign=Anna+Deave intersex people. Make new friends. Find what-the-f*?!, redeeming his lost promise free arcade games. $40 advance/$45 at re+Smith+PR1&utm_medium=email&utm_ out more about intersex. Explore and cel- and re-inventing a brand-new Conrad Tick- Monday, Dec. 30 door. 9:00pm Replay Beer & Bourbon source=newsletter&utm_content=RSVP ebrate your difference. intersexchicago@ lebottom. A quirky holiday musical tale of HamBINGO Join Mary’s for “HamBINGO 3439 N Halsted St Tickets: http://www. gmail.com 6:30pm Center on Halsted hope, transformation… and the power Mary’s” every Monday night at 8pm brownpapertickets.com/event/523164 3656 N Halsted http://www.centeronhal- Friday, Jan. 17 of Liza! 7:30pm Stage 773 1225 W downstairs in the dining room, with your Redmoon’s New Year’s Eve: Revolution. GayCo sted.org GayCo at Chicago Sketchfest 2014! Belmont (773) 327-5252; http://www. host, Velicity Metropolis calling the balls. Festive evening of relentless elegance and performs for its 12th time in the nations You know this ain’t your church bingo! wild imagination, with signature Redmoon aboutfacetheatre.com Thursday, Jan. 9 largest sketch festival. Featuring high- Weekend Pre-Party Join Spin every Thurs- 8:00pm Hamburger Mary’s 5400 N Clark moments of spectacle, ceremony and rit- lights from GayCo’s #GodHatesHashtags, Parents of Transgender Individuals For day for $1 cocktails, wine, and beer. Fea- http://www.hamburgermaryschicago.com ual for an unexpected interpretation of find out what will happen to the gay com- decades, PFLAG has been proud to be a turing DJ Chester spinning the hottest Dollar Drink Night with DJ Laura B! Due the classic New Year’s Eve celebration. munity after #GayMarriage and #Equality resource for transgender and gender non- music videos and dance hits! 9:00pm to popular demand, $1 drinks have made $100 includes five hours (9 pm - 2 am) are no longer trending topics. Tickets on- conforming people, their families, and Spin Nightclub 800 W Belmont Ave a return to Monday’s at Hydrate. Featuring of open bar and sweets service and free line or by phone. 8:00pm Stage 773 friends. For More Info: parentsoftransgen- DJ Laura B spinning your favorite drink- shuttle. Access to one of three Lounge 1225 W Belmont 773-327-5252 Tickets: [email protected] 7:00pm Center on Friday, Dec. 27 ing tunes till 4am! All house level cock- Areas is available through VIP tickets http://www.chicagosketchfest.com Halsted 3656 N Halsted http://commu- It’s A Wonderful LIfe: Live in Chicago! tails are just a dollar and $4.00 4 Rebel $150. 9:00pm Redmoon 2120 S. Jef- nity.pflag.org/transgender Pink Previews, where tickets sales ben- Bomb Shots. Get there early to catch the ferson St. 312-850-8440 x123, http:// Pride Films and Plays presents The Chil- efit the Lynn Sage Foundation for breast hilarious Ruff N Stuff show starting at www.redmoon.org dren’s Hour A revival Of Lillian Hellman’s cancer research, are Friday, Nov. 22 and midnight! 9:00pm Hydrate Nightclub classic play of loves and lies. 8:00pm Saturday, Nov. 23 at 7:30 pm. $19-$49. 3458 N Halsted http://www.hydratechi- Wed., Jan. 1 Collaboraction’s Pentagon Theater, 1579 Through Dec. 29. 7:30pm Greenhouse cago.com Red Cup Party Every Wednesday. Featuring N. Milwaukee Ave., 800-838-3006 http:// Theater Center 2257 N. Lincoln Ave. 773- DJ Cooper Thomas and tasty drink spe- www.pridefilmsandplays.com Tickets: 4047336 http://americanbluestheater. cials. 9:00pm Scarlet Bar 3320 N Hal-

Nero Ray Caesar Wolfe Germanicus completed his transition last year, at age 53—a journey he started at age 16. “I was unable to complete it because of LBGT problems with laws, [plus], operation procedures weren’t as safe or perfected as they are now and just a whole lot of overwhelming issues with living my life as I am,” he said. “I TRANS in the lived most of my life as a tortured soul.” Germanicus drives an 18-wheel semi-tractor trailer, hauling 53-foot-long rail containers. He also has driven LIFE doubles, triple trailers, tankers, flat beds and car haulers. He has worked for Ford Motor Company for 15 years, U.S. Robotics and others. Nero Ray Caesar “I like the idea of people accepting me for who I am and not a label,” he said. “I’m currently driving a big truck Wolfe Germanicus and completing my degree in computer science.” Germanicus is a U.S. Army veteran, who spent six years as a military police officer. He said truck driving “is a By ROSS FORMAN peaceful career [that] allows me to think. It gives me freedom unlike an office environment. I find that my creative thought for my writing comes very easy with this type of work environment.” He has been driving trucks on and off since 1998. Age Hobbies In addition, funeral directing is one of his passions, he said. Germanicus has been a licensed funeral 54 Golf, weight training, director and embalmer for 20 years. He graduated from Worsham College of Mortuary Science in 1992. “I’ve seen a lot of things and I’ve done a lot,” he said. “I’ve seen just about every way a person can Neighborhood fine dining, theater, opera, and writing die. I’ve embalmed thousands of bodies over my career. I’ve visited with a multitude of families over the North Beverly years. What I love most about being a funeral director is the true compassion that is shared among fellow human beings. When fellow human beings Relationship status Orientation are going through a traumatic time, they don’t think [if the] person that is helping them is gay or straight; they don’t care. The only thing that matters Single Straight male is that this person is there for [them] and this, to me, is sincere human nature at its highest form of compassion. “The highlight of my funeral career was the famous heat wave in Chicago in 1995 that killed [more than] 750 people. Everywhere I went to pick up Job titles It’s a fact a body the news cameras were there. I wore shorts while working that summer.” Semi-truck driver, “I love and admire a Germanicus said the worst part of trucking is that “the public is unaware of how dangerous these trucks are and they’re constantly darting in and out funeral director/ person with brains and of traffic in front of us.” embalmer, electrician, have a weakness for “Unfortunately we cannot stop on a dime and their lives are in our hands,” he added. “I think they should be trained better as regular automobile horse trainer, and geeks because I’m a drivers that 80,000 pounds of steel can kill them or someone else.” writer very shy nerd.” The worst part of funeral directing is that “families don’t realize nor do they care that there is absolutely no room for error with the funeral director,” he said. “Unlike a movie script, he can’t just yell cut and rewrite the funeral. This leaves the funeral director overworked and stressed.” Still, they are “great, rewarding careers,” he said. WINDY CITY TIMES Dec. 25, 2013 21 Shooting straight with gay champion marksman Chris Cheng by Ross Forman

Chris Cheng, winner of The History Channel’s Top Shot (season four), revealed Dec. 17 on his blog that he is gay. Cheng and partner Nate Smith have been to- gether for almost five years —and their families will be together for Christmas, just as they are annually for Thanksgiving. Cheng has partici- pated three times, including this year’s annual AIDS LifeCycle bicycle ride from San Francisco to Los Angeles. He is a member of the board of directors for the San Francisco Opera BRAVO! Club and is a volunteer baritone singer for the San Francisco Symphony Chorus. Cheng also is a co-founder of Home For A Home, a nonprofit organization that builds homes for the needy. Cheng spoke with Windy City Times reporter Ross Forman for his first newspaper interview since coming out. Cheng was the “gay guy applying for a shoot- ing competition” when he auditioned two years ago for Top Shot. That was part of his persona— no doubt, a hot button. But the gay card was never played. “The entire cast of Top Shot knew that I was gay, and there were plenty of recorded discus- sions about [my sexual orientation],” Cheng said. “The interesting thing was, it really was a non-issue for the other marksmen on the cast. The History Channel never aired any of that footage because, and this is the quote that they Chris Cheng. Photo by Oleg Volk gave me: ‘It never became relevant.’ “The uniform response that I got from every- think is to be expected and I’m not really caught munity] is to just show people that you can be one [associated with the TV show] was, ‘Chris, off-guard by that.” He said that the remaining yourself, and if you want to do something, just we don’t care that you’re gay; this is a shoot- 35 percent have had a “So what, who cares, why go do it,” Cheng said. “If I’m at any way able to ing competition; we want to see how well you is this an issue,” attitude. “I think that’s actu- put people at ease, help them be themselves, be shoot.’” ally a great response,” he said. who they are, that’s great, definitely something Cheng admits he was “caught off guard” by “Overall, it has been a supportive, accepting I hope I can do.” that response. “I was expecting much more of a and tolerant response. There is much more sup- Cheng tours the country for Bass Pro Shops, fight, so to speak,” he said. port for gay rights in the gun community than competes in various shooting competitions, and The finale for Cheng’s season on Top Shot— one may think.” works with the NRA and others to promote the when he learned he was the champion, winner of Such that, a gun-supporter friend of Cheng’s sport of shooting. a $100,000 cash prize and a professional marks- who quickly came to his support. The man lives He is writing a book, Shoot To Win, due out man contract with the show’s sponsor, Bass Pro in the Deep South, is white and married with next July, and developing a gun-related TV show Shops—aired in May 2012. kids, Cheng said. The two have shot together for for 2014. Cheng was the winner—not the gay winner. two days, and he didn’t know that Cheng was “I love what I do for my job. I’m living the “For the past year and a half, I have learned gay at the time. American dream, doing stuff that people often how very tolerant the gun community is with “I wasn’t expecting to receive a positive re- only dream about,” Cheng said. “I have a lot respects to LGBT rights and the LGBT commu- sponse [from him], but he has been very, very of fun competing, demonstrating weapons, and nity,” Cheng said. “There are a ton of gun own- supportive,” Cheng said. “He gets it, that this is just learning as much as I can about the shoot- ers who are supportive [of the gay community], about breaking stereotypes.” ing community. and many gun people don’t care about [others’ Cheng comes from a diverse background. His “I never envisioned this is where my life would sexual orientation.]” dad, Benjamin, is Chinese-American; his mom, be. While at UCLA, I was debating whether to be “What prompted the announcement was, now Maggie, is Japanese-Cuban. Cheng said his an engineer, working for Apple or Google. Then, that I’ve spent a year and a half in the gun parents were “a little hesitant and concerned” I envisioned working in government, either for community, and am a mini-celebrity in the gun about his coming-out blog, though they have the government or for an elected official. world, I keep thinking, ‘What do I want my place known he is gay since 2008. “Even five years ago, if someone had said, to be in the gun community?’” Cheng said. “I’m Benjamin asked his son, “Why do you need ‘Chris, you are going to have a career in the gun very interested in diversity in the gun industry to do this? Why is it important for you to come industry,’ I would have said, ‘No way; that just and the gun community. The interesting thing out?’” doesn’t make any sense.’” is, the diversity is already there, but we just Cheng replied, “This is important because gay But Cheng has shined in the gun community, don’t have a lot of outdoor media people talking people are a marginalized group [so] we have a self-taught marksman who never was in the about it. So that’s where I saw an opportunity to be vocal and visible if we want to have an Chris Cheng and partner Nate Smith. Photo military or with law enforcement experience. to shine this light on diversity in the gun com- impact in the world.” from Cheng Cheng has participated in the annual seven- munity, that gun owners are not just this stereo- After all, Cheng admitted he definitely want day, 545-mile AIDS LifeCycle three times—in typical white, redneck, bigoted gun owner.” to be a role-model to others in the LGBT com- through my head, [including] how I’m going to 2009, 2010 and 2013. Showcasing diversity, particularly in the gun munity. do it, what I’m going to say, and how I’ll re- “It truly is a wonderful event,” Cheng said. community, is Cheng’s drive. “Coming out is not easy. You may lose friends spond to any reaction they may have. It was like “You are around LGBT people, and supporters, for On his coming-out blog, Cheng thanked many, or family members; that is the reality; it can I had a contingency plan for anything,” Cheng a week, and it really is a warm, open, loving and including the National Rifle Association and the happen,” he said. “But coming out has been said. accepting community. National Shooting Sports Foundation, “who are nothing but a very good experience for me.” Today, his parents are “totally fine” with his “The impact of the week is really all about supportive of my decision as they recognize the Cheng, 34, came out to friends at 19 while sexual orientation, he said. “Things are at a seeing [participants] from areas that are not as diverse perspective I bring to the conversation attending UCLA. He graduated in 2003, and great place with my folks.” gay-friendly as San Francisco. It’s a very emo- about the safe and responsible use of firearms,” worked for Google 2007-2012, primarily in tech- Cheng and Smith, 29, the CEO and co-founder tional experience. I would love to do it again he wrote. nical support. of a start-up company in the Silicon Valley in in 2014, but the challenge is, my schedule. I Cheng said he has received 60 percent posi- He came out to his parents in 2008 at a pizza the software industry, have been together for absolutely will do the ALC again, just not sure if tive/supportive responses to his coming-out, restaurant in San Francisco. almost five years. They met at Google. it will be in 2014.” while 5 percent have been negative, “which I “Like a lot of gay people, I ran this narrative “The impact I want to have [for the gay com- 22 Dec. 25, 2013 WINDY CITY TIMES

SPORTS AND cation online at http://bit.ly/GG9ScholarApp. Brian Boitano comes ENTERTAINMENT The deadline to apply is Feb. 15, 2014. Those awarded scholarships will be notified by April ‘Duck Dynasty’ in 1, 2014. out, joins U.S. delgation anti-gay controversy Duck Dynasty star Phil Robertson is under Nashville Grizzlies to Sochi Olympics fire for bashing gays in a GQ interview in which he grouped homosexuality with “drunks” and rugby team’s by Ross Forman “terrorists,” according to TheWrap.com. calendar on sale After he complained that “everything is The Nashville Grizzlies—a USA Rugby Divi- The speculation has been silenced, and now he’s blurred on what’s right and what’s wrong … sion squad that describes itself as “a socially heading to Sochi. sin becomes fine,” the magazine asked what and ethnically diverse group of guys ages Brian Boitano, who won a figure skating gold he considers sinful. He said, “Start with ho- 19-50”—has put together a calendar to raise medal at the 1988 Olympics and was named by mosexual behavior and just morph out from funds to attend the 2014 Bingham Cup in Syd- President Obama to the official U.S. delegation there—bestiality, sleeping around with this ney, Australia. to the 2014 Sochi Olympics, announced Dec. 19 woman and that woman and that woman and The team welcomes new players, regardless that he is gay. those men.” Duck Dynasty is cable’s highest- of experience or sexual orientation. Boitano’s announcement ended years of rated reality show. Every two years the team travels to the speculation about his sexual orientation. The GLAAD has issued a statement condemning Bingham Cup, named in honor of Mark Bing- 50-year-old Boitano also competed in the 1984 the remarks as “littered with outdated stereo- ham, who died on United Airlines Flight 93 and the 1994 Olympics, finishing fifth and sixth, types and blatant misinformation.” during the Sept. 11, 2001 attacks. respectively, and has appeared on the Food Net- CNN reported that A&E has suspended Rob- The calendar is $20; see www.GrizzliesRug- work’s show What Would Brian Boitano Make? ertson indefinitely. “We are extremely disap- by.org. Boitano is joined on the official U.S. delega- pointed to have read Phil Robertson’s com- tion to the Sochi Olympics by tennis legend Bil- ments in GQ, which are based on his own lie Jean King and former Olympic hockey player personal beliefs and are not reflected in the ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race’ Caitlin Cahow, both out lesbians. The presence of series Duck Dynasty,” the network said in a statement. season six cast named prominent out gay athletes has been viewed by Fourteen contestants have been announced Season five of the show is set to premiere many as a strong message from Obama against Brian Boitano. Photo courtesy of The Food for the upcoming sixth season of the Logo TV Jan. 15. Russia’s anti-gay legislation. Network show RuPaul’s Drag Race, which will start in Obama will not be attending, nor will a mem- February. ber of Obama’s family or an active Cabinet sec- ing executive, said Obama’s delegation decisions Bull riders stop in Gia Gunn is the only contestant from Chi- retary, marking the first time in at least 20 years “are brilliant.” cago. Some of the other entrants include April that no U.S. president, vice president, one of Chicago Jan. 11-12 “It sends a clear message about U.S. values,” Carrion (Guaynabo, Puerto Rico), Vivacious their wives or a current cabinet secretary will be For the second year in a row, the Profession- Boyer said. “It makes a political statement, but (New York City), Laganja Estranja (Los Ange- in a U.S. Olympic delegation. al Bull Riders tour will stop in the Windy City, focused on the athletes, and makes potential les), Milk (New York City) and Adore Delano The highest-ranking official will be former Sec- with its elite Built Ford Tough Series slated for Russian protests impotent. The President not (Azusa, Calif.). retary of Homeland Security Janet Napolitano. Jan. 11-12 at the Allstate Arena. going sends an equally important message. I The prizes will be $100,000 and the title of Boitano said in a statement on Dec. 19 that he During the two-day Chicago Invitational, hope that NBC in its coverage and the sponsors “America’s Next Drag Superstar.” is currently skating in Europe. fans will see the Top 35 bull riders in the in their advertising all make equally smart deci- “I have been fortunate to represent the United world. The event will take place Saturday, Jan. sions. This issue is literally life and death for States of America in three different Olympics, 11, at 8 p.m. and Sunday, Jan. 12, at 2 p.m. Russian LGBT people.” and now I am honored to be part of the presi- Tickets are $20-$125; they’re on sale at the Anthony Nicodemo, the out basketball coach dential delegation to the Olympics in Sochi,” Allstate Arena box office, www.Ticketmaster. Gia Gunn. at Saunders High School in Yonkers, N.Y., said Boitano said in a statement. “It has been my com and 800-745-3000. For more informa- Photo by the inclusion of three out athletes in the del- experience from competing around the world tion, visit www.pbr.com. Anthony egation is “great.” and in Russia that Olympic athletes can come Meade “What an awesome way for the president to together in friendship, peace and mutual respect make a statement on the injustices in Russia: Gay Games accepting regardless of their individual country’s practices. [sending] gay former Olympians, representing “It is my desire to be defined by my achieve- applications the USA,” said Nicodemo, who came out this ments and my contributions. While I am proud The 2014 Gay Games is announcing a partic- summer. In his team’s first game of the season to play a public role in representing the Ameri- ipation scholarship for those who wish to be on Dec. 15, which Saunders won, all Saunders can Olympic Delegation as a former Olympic part of the event but do not have the financial players wore “Be True” T-shirts from Nike for athlete, I have always reserved my private life means to attend. warm ups in support of their coach. for my family and friends and will continue to There is a limited number of scholarships Jack Neilsen, the commission of the Chicago do so. I am many things: a son, a brother, and available, ranging in estimated value from Metropolitan Sports Association (CMSA) Sunday uncle, a friend, an athlete, a cook, an author, $750 to $1,350. The funds can be applied to open division softball league, added: “What bet- and being gay is just one part of who I am. First general registration fees as well as fees for ter way for President Obama to show support and foremost I am an American athlete and I one sport/cultural event; transportation to of the LGBT athletes and [the gay] community am proud to live in a country that encourages and from host cities Cleveland and Akron, New Year’s Day run [than] by choosing members of the community. diversity, openness and tolerance. As an athlete, Ohio; and housing. The city’s New Year’s Day 5K Run & Walk re- This sends a strong message to many that we I hope we can remain focused on the Olympic The Gay Games are open to everyone over turns for its 29th year Wed., Jan. 1. are PROUD of our LGBT community and support spirit which celebrates achievement in sport by the age of 18 by Aug. 9, 2014, regardless The first official 5K of 2014 will take place them in this time of turmoil in Russia. Hope- peoples of all nations. of sexual orientation, gender, transgender at 11 a.m. at 1600 N. Stockton Dr. fully, as more LGBT athletes and community USA TODAY sports columnist Christine Brennan status, religion, nationality, political convic- Pre-registration for the event’s 5K competi- members come forward and show their face in called the selection of King “a stroke of genius.” tions, age, physical condition or athletic abil- tive-time run, 5K fun run and 5K walk is $30. Sochi, the repressive government will see that Kevin Boyer of Chicago, an openly gay market- ity. To register, visit www.chicagoevents.com or everyone deserves to be treated equally.” Interested parties can download the appli- call 773-868-3010.

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