GLENN WINDY CITY CLOSE THE VOICE OF CHICAGO’S GAY, LESBIAN, TALKS BI AND TRANS COMMUNITY SINCE 1985 ‘ALBERT NOBBS’ Feb. 1, 2012 vol 27, no. 17 PAGE 23 www.WindyCityMediaGroup.comTIMES Gerber/Hart move poses questions BY KATE SOSIN On or around Jan. 22, a large red rental sign appeared til the end of April. Cecrle said she sent the library a in the window of the Edgewater-based library, encour- new lease in September, but was not given notice until When a “for rent” sign appeared in the window of Ger- aging interested parties to contact neighborhood B&R December that the library planned to relocate. ber/Hart Library in late January, community members Developers. “I couldn’t get a commitment out of them,” Cecrle shared concerns that the library was being forced to The property was also listed in at least two Craigslist said, adding that she sent several inquiries but received move against its best interests. advertisements published Jan. 23. The listings did not no response. Karen Sendziak, president of the Gerber/Hart Library mention the library specifically, but showed pictures Cecrle declined to disclose the cost of rent but said board, later confirmed that Chicago’s LGBT library and and a description of the single-story library. The rental that it has remained the same for two years. The latest archives, now at 1127 W. Granville Ave., is moving. No sign in the window’s library advertised 5,500 square lease did increase the rent by $1 per square foot, but further information was provided. feet of available space in the building. Cecrle offered to donate the cost of the increase to keep Community members expressed concern for the well- Sendziak, reached by phone, initially declined com- Gerber/Hart in the building, she said. being of the library, and Windy City Times began exam- ment on the rental advertisements, but later confirmed Cecrle said she does not know why the library is leav- TALKING WITH ining both the structure and fiscal health of the orga- via email that the library would in fact move. ing the space, but added that she supports the organi- MERYL STREEP nization. What WCT found is an organization struggling “Gerber/Hart will be moving,” she wrote to Windy City zation and hopes it remains in the neighborhood. AND OUT to stay compliant, quiet about its operations and more Times. “That is all I can say at this point.” At least one potential renter has inquired about the DIRECTOR than two months behind on submitting its annual IRS According to Rae Ann Cecrle, the building’s owner, form 990 on its finances. Gerber/Hart asked for a one-month lease extension un- Turn to page 8 PHYLLIDA LLOYD pagE 22 More Howard Brown departures Activist and changes John By Yasmin Nair Howard Brown Health Center (HBHC) has undergone Pennycuff more employee changes in the last couple of months, including one dismissal, amid continuing reports of a dies potential buyout by Near North Health Service Corpora- tion (NNHMC). Local gay-rights activist and Windy City Times has contacted HBHC and NNHMC. The former Windy City Times office former has not responded at all, while NNHMC’s spokes- manager John Pennycuff passed person only said, “We can neither confirm nor deny any- away Jan. 29 at the age of thing at this time.” 47. Read all about Pennycuff’s Public Communications Inc. (PCI) is no longer han- accomplishments as well as dling public relations for HBHC. In an email, PCI Presi- thoughts from his husband, dent Jill Allread wrote to WCT that “PCI’s contract with Robert Castillo. See pages 10-12. HBHC ended on Dec. 31. HBHC is now handling media Photo by Hal Baim relations activities in house.” The new contact person is Michael Brady. Brady did not respond to our inquiries about his position or any state rep. other inquiries regarding recent changes. greg harris Dahlia Mehdi, director of the Geriatric Education Pro- on being gram at HBHC, has left to go to AIDS Foundation of page 10 Chicago, the same agency where former HBHC staffer hiv-positive page 14 Turn to page 9

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Photos on cover (left, from top): Photo of Glenn Close on the set of the film Albert Nobbs by Patrick Redmond; photo of Meryl Streep as Margaret Thatcher in The Iron Lady courtesy of Weinstein Co.; photo of state Rep. Greg Harris by Erica Demarest

LESBIAN, 85 VOICE OF CHICAGO’S GAY,NCE 19 THE COMMUNITY SI BI AND TRANS 012 Feb. 1, 2 no. 17 WINDY CITYvol 27,

GLENN CLOSE MediaGroup.com TALKS TIMES ‘ALBERT www.WindyCity NOBBS’ 3 PAGE 2 rary a t the lib said she sen notice until f April. Cecrle as not given o locate. til the end mber, but w ed to re Cecrle Gerber/Hart ed move in Septe y plann ar l sign appear new lease ut of them,” eived d renta - that the libr tment o ec arge re ary, encour December a commi quiries but r , a l d libr &R ’t get al in d Jan. 22 ater-base ood B “I c ouldn e sent sever id or aroun eighborh that sh sa On of the Edgew t n adding f rent but ndow contac said, o latest in the wi ties to onse. lose the cost The wo Craigslist no resp disc years. posesging interestquestionsed par least t ot eclined to for two e foot, but a at ar s. ed in ings did n Cecrle d the same squ ep SIN w of Ger- veloper t es s remained t by $1 per se to ke TE SO De y was also list . 23. The lis pictur at it ha ea BY KA the windo mbers e propert showed th ase the ren of the incr peared in unity me Th lished Jan , but rental did incre he cost gn ap omm d to sements pub cifically ary. The lease o donate t d. leav- for rent” si nuary, c force adverti spe ry libr re ffered t ng, she sai ary is hen a “ late Ja eing the library gle-sto s qua Cecrle o the libr i- W rary in ntion e sin sed 5,500 rt in the buildi DOWNLOADwhy the organ THIS! library was b me know /Hart Lib at t he ription of th verti ber/Ha oes not upports ber rns t h rary ’s li brary ad g. Ger d she d s . ce ber/Hart Lib and a desc window ldin crle sai ded that she ghborhood shared con s best interests. d in t he the bui lined com- Ce ad e nei t the inst it f the Ger library an sign e space in itially dec firmed e space, but ains in th ired abou move aga esident o o’s LGBT No labl one, in r con ing th rem inqu endziak, pr Chicag feet of avai , but late d hopes it has n S d that s moving. reached by ph . ation an ential renter 8 Kare ville Ave., i ak, vertisements move z e pot Turn to page d, later confirme W. Gran Sendzi rental ad n fact indy City t least on boar at 1127 - the ary would i to W A now ded. for the well ment on she wrote archives, on was provi concern am- ail that the libr ng,” mati xpressed an ex via em ll be movi nt.” ner, further infor rs e Times beg - /Hart wi ng’s ow ity membe dy City f the orga “Gerber can say at this poi un- un and Win o g t is all I rle, the buildi ension Comm ary, fiscal health ugglin es. “Tha nn Cec se ext e and ion str Tim R ae A onth lea being of the librstructur organizat ding to a one-m ward d is an ons and more Accor ed for ining both the CT foun l IRS Hart ask ITH What W t its operati annua Gerber/ More Ho ion. uiet abou ting its KING W nizat pliant, q submit TAL EP y com ind on to sta ths beh YL STRE mon . Brown departures MER than two ces ND OUT form 990 on its finan Go to A www.WindyCityMediaGroup.com one CTOR and NchangesAIr underg DIRE Y YASmIN HC) h as DA LLOYD vIST B (HB of months, TI ealth Center t couple a PHYLLI AC rown H the las orts of 22 ard B n uing rep PAGE How yee changes i tin pora- re emplo ssal, amid con Service Cor JOHN mo one dismi ff cluding Near North Health e in HMC. Th al buyout by and NN potenti d HBHC okes- PENNYCU NHMC). cte tion (N es has conta NHMC’s sp any- im at all, while N or deny Windy City T onded firm n not resp DIES st and r has forme d, “We can neither con er han- rights activi office only sai no long Local gay- person e.” is esi- dy City Times d his tim Inc. (PCI) ail, PCI Pr mer Win cuff passe thing at t ications n em for n Penny un ntract with r Joh ge of Public Comm s for HBHC. In a PCI’s co a manage at the a ’s c relation g medi n. 29 cuff g publi to WCT that “ away Ja t Penny dlin ad wrote is now handlin ell as Allre 31. HBHC 47. read all abou dent Jill . ady did nd, ended on Dec e.” . Br ccomplishments as wsba HBHC es in hous el Brady any to download complete issues of Windy City Times and Nightspots. a 10-12. viti is Micha ition or ughts from his hu lations acti son his pos tho lo. See pages re about Castil e new contact perquiries es. robert Th our in ang ion Pro- al Baim nd to ecent ch Educat oto by H not respo egarding r atric on of Ph f the Geri oundati her inquiries r rector o F fer ot i, di o to AIDS HC staf ahlia Mehd left to g rmer HB D HC, has fo HB ency where 9 gram at same ag o page ago, the Turn t 0 Chic page 1

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Calli Chris Photo: THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 9 COCKTAILS 5:30 P.M.; PROGRAM 6:30 P.M. online exclusives at $12, $10 MEMBERS AND STUDENTS www.WindyCityMediaGroup.com Known as the “Invisible Man” of the civil rights movement, Bayard Rustin was a mentor to Dr. FLINT CONDITION Read about Jim Flint’s recent “Fireside Martin Luther King Jr., and organized the iconic Chat” (left) as well as see pictures from the 1963 March on Washington D.C. But despite his Roe v. Wade anniversary celebration. many achievements, Rustin was expunged from Photo by Emmanuel Garcia history—largely for being openly gay. Chicago Urban League President Andrea L. Zopp moderates a discussion on Rustin’s enduring legacy with filmmaker Bennett Singer, co- director of the acclaimed documentary Brother Outsider: The Life of Bayard Rustin, and Rustin’s life partner Walter Naegle. Read about author Rebecca See photos from Skloot’s lecture Graffiti6’s show at Out at CHM 2012 is sponsored by The LEGAL EASE the Park West. This month’s Ask Lambda Legal at Northwestern Pauls Foundation. University. tackles the issue of LGBTs and public Photo by Jerry Nunn accommodation. Photo by Tracy Baim OUT IN CHICAGO Out in Chicago has brought a vital part of our SCHOOL DAZE I’LL DRINK TO THAT Read about local happenings, including shared history out of the shadows and into out DePaul student Anthony Alfano the light. Come see this exhilarating exhibition being honored with a resolution. before it closes its doors on March 26, 2012.

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Nightspots’ ‘Myths and Valentine’s Day Mortals’ cards. at Leather page 13 Archives. Call 312.642.4600 or visit www.chicagohistory.org PLUS page 29 Find Nightspots on www.WindyCityQueercast.com 4 Feb. 1, 2012 WINDY CITY TIMES cally” protect the right of LGBT individuals and ONLINE AT couples “to live where they choose.” In that address, Donovan made note of the WINDYCITYMEDIAGROUP.COM New HUD rule fact that he was the first sitting cabinet member NATIONAL NEWS to speak to an NGLTF conference. In July 2010, HUD issued a clarification of ex- called ‘historic’ isting policy regarding the Fair Housing Act, a federal law that prohibits discrimination based By Lisa Keen rule had been in the works for about a year, on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, Keen News Service would be published in the Federal Register this disability, and familial status. The clarification week, and would go into effect at the begin- indicated that sexual orientation and gender In a speech before a national LGBT conference ning of March. He said it prohibits discrimina- identity discrimination might be covered under —Marriage-equality Jan. 28, U.S. Housing and Urban Development tion in housing by those who own and operate the other categories, for instance, sex discrimi- activists take (HUD) Secretary Shaun Donovan said President the housing as well as those who lend money for nation. Within months, the number of LGBT- action in Maine Obama views the fight for LGBT equality “not as housing at projects that receive HUD assistance. related housing discrimination complaints filed an issue, but as a priority” and that the presi- It also clarifies that the definition of “family” as with HUD increased—from only three between —Barney Frank (left) dent and administration “believe the LGBT com- including an LGBT individual, or individual in an the years 2009 and 2010 to 47 between July is engaged munity deserves a place at the table.” LGBT relationship or be perceived to be such an 2010 and March 2011. This is an election year, and a veteran political individual or in such relationship. Last April, HUD launched a national media observer might note that the emissaries of in- The new rule amends Title 24 (regarding HUD) —Thrift store for trans campaign, “Live Free,” to promote equal access people robbed cumbents who seek to be re-elected are prone to of the Code of Federal Regulations, specifically to housing regardless of sexual orientation and saying things like this. But HUD has established Part 5, which spells out “General HUD Program gender identity. a record of commitment to the LGBT community Requirements.” The rule also prohibits “inquiries Last May, HUD announced more than $9 mil- regarding sexual orientation or gender identity.” lion in grants to address the housing needs of President Obama has made seven appoint- HUD originally proposed the new rule in Janu- people with HIV who have low incomes. The ments of openly LGBT people to leadership ary 2011 and solicited public comment, as re- funding will last for three years and include a positions at HUD, including two assistant sec- quired by law. report to encourage communities to attend to retaries—Raphael Bostic, Assistant Secretary Trasviña said the HUD program rule will be en- the housing needs of people with HIV, as well as for Policy Development and Research, who is forced by HUD offices around the country and their medical needs. overseeing a HUD LGBT discrimination study, that HUD would be training those staff during And last November, HUD Secretary Donovan and Mercedes Marquez, Assistant Secretary for the next 30 days to prepare for the new rule go- became the first U.S. cabinet secretary to ad- Community Planning and Development. ing into effect. dress a transgender group’s event, making the ©2012 by Keen News Service. All rights re- In his speech to NGLTF, Secretary Donovan keynote speech at an annual meeting of the Na- served. said the new rule will “clearly and unequivo- tional Center for Transgender Equality. Thousands of LGBTs attend Creating Change By Michael K. Lavers the right to live where they choose,” he said to a sustained standing ovation from activists Equality Illinois CEO Bernard Cherkasov was an inside the auditorium. “This is an idea whose activist with the Queer Unity Project when he time has come.” attended his first Creating Change conference Lorri Jean, chief executive director of the in Washington, D.C., in 1996. The LGBT-rights Los Angeles Gay and Lesbian Center, described movement was on the defensive against a se- Donovan’s speech as historic. ries of anti-LGBT proposals across the country. “That was an extraordinary indicator of Then-President Bill Clinton signed the federal progress and I was just blown away,” she told Defense of Marriage Act into law. Windy City Times during a Washington Blade- “In most states, we were on the offensive sponsored reception Jan. 28. trying to keep many of the really, really, re- ally bad laws from being considered or being “Called upon to lead” Shaun Donovan. enacted or at least minimizing their impact The optimism among Creating Change at- as opposed to now,” said Cherkasov. “I didn’t tendees was certainly palpable, but the sense think back in 1996 how fast we get to a day of urgency among those who continue to fight like this.” against proposed constitutional amendments from the very start of the Obama administration, Cherkasov was among the more than 3,000 that would bar marriage for same-sex couples and on Saturday, Donovan added to its already activists from across the country who attended in North Carolina and Minnesota was certainly impressive list of deliveries on its commitment. the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force’s 24th palpable. Donovan announced, at the annual Creating annual conference in Baltimore Jan. 25-29. “We’re going to be called upon to lead a lot Change conference of the National Gay and Les- NAACP President Benjamin Jealous and this year,” said Carey. bian Task Force, that HUD will publish a “new Maryland First Lady Katie O’Malley opened Cre- O’Malley introduced a marriage-equality bill regulation” in the Federal Register this week to ating Change Jan. 26. Maryland Gov. Martin in the Maryland Legislature only days before ensure that any HUD-assisted housing program O’Malley officially closed the conference. the conference. Lawmakers in New Jersey and does not discriminate based on sexual orienta- Rea Carey, executive director of the Task Washington continue to debate measures that tion, gender identity, or marital status. It is ex- Force, described 2011 as a momentous year would allow same-sex couples to tie the knot, pected to apply to more than four million units for LGBT Americans in her annual State of the but Carey stressed that nuptials for gays and of housing. LGBT Movement speech Jan. 27. Rea Carey. lesbians is the not the only issue for which The announcement triggered a flood of sup- Same-sex couples began to legally marry LGBT activists need to fight this year. portive statements from LGBT groups around the in New York in July, while Illinois was among said last February that it would no longer de- “The LGBT movement is not a movement for country—from the Human Rights Campaign to the four states that enacted laws last year fend DOMA in court, while the Department of marriage only,” she said, noting legislators in the National Center for Transgender Equality. that allowed gays and lesbians to enter into Veterans Affairs directed its facilities to pro- Michigan, New York and Maryland will consider Maya Rupert, the federal policy director for civil unions. Connecticut, Hawaii, Nevada and vide appropriate care to trans patients. The bills that would add gender identity and ex- the National Center for Lesbian Rights, called it Massachusetts added gender identity and ex- Obama administration announced in August pression to their non-discrimination laws. “It a “truly historic” development for the LGBT com- pression to their non-discrimination laws. it would allow federal authorities to take an is a movement for the full dignity of our lives, munity. California and Vermont passed statutes that undocumented immigrant’s community and for a transformed society.” “The impact it will have on all our lives,” she now allow transgender people to change the family ties into account in deportation pro- Cherkasov said Creating Change will allow said, “cannot be overstated…LGBT people and gender on their birth certificates without sex- ceedings. Several White House staffers also Equality Illinois to further advance their agen- their families will now enjoy critical protections reassignment surgery. Dallas, Oklahoma City, participated in a panel at Creating Change da with insight from their colleagues across from housing discrimination based on sexual Jackson, Miss., and Arkansas were among the about the White House’s record on LGBT-spe- the country. orientation and gender identity.” jurisdictions that adopted LGBT-inclusive anti- cific issues. “This is the one place when we can come Rea Carey, executive director of NGLTF, said bullying measures. Housing and Urban Development Secretary together with thousands of other like-minded the new rule “will literally save lives.” “We at the Task Force are honored to have Shaun Donovan announced at the conference activists who we can share our lessons and our “These housing protections will reduce home- helped in many of these efforts and to have Jan. 28 that his agency would codify a pro- aspirations and our frustrations and re-ener- lessness and increase economic security for LGBT worked with our colleagues in the statewide posed ban on anti-LGBT discrimination in fed- gize and go back to our field,” he said. people, which helps break the cycle of poverty equality organizations,” said Carey. eral housing programs this week. Video of Donovan speaking at Cre- that many families experience due to discrimina- On the federal level, the repeal of the ban “I am proud to announce a new equal access ating Change can be seen at www. tion.” on openly gay and lesbian servicemembers be- to housing rule that says clearly and unequivo- youtube.com/watch?feature=player_ In a conference call with reporters Jan. 30, came official in September. The White House cally that LGBT individuals and couples have embedded&v=jf1MDDulyEM#! Assistant Secretary John Trasviña said the new WINDY CITY TIMES Feb. 1, 2012 5 She’s accomplished quite a bit during her years issues related to them. The Mayor has an agenda as a community activist, but did so with relative to create jobs and to keep them in the city. I Bisexual activist anonymity until her appointment by Lee. “It’s an want to be part of that. Is there a place for small adjustment,” she admitted. “It makes you more business in this city? Let’s look at the quality conscious about what you do in public. After my of life in the neighborhoods. Let’s talk about appointed supervisor swearing in, people walked up to me and told affordable housing—we want to keep people in me that they had read about me. I’m neutral the city and keep the city diverse.” about it at this point, it’s not something I’m In November 2012, Olague’s appointed term in San Francisco used to.” will end. She fully intends to run for a full term, Her agenda remains unchanged. “I’m meeting but has no plans to run for higher office. by David-Elijah Nahmod with a lot of community groups,” she said. “We “After I leave City Hall, I want to pursue a just had a hearing on quality of life issues for graduate degree in psychology and work towards San Francisco Mayor Ed Lee has appointed bi- LGBT seniors. I want to work on these issues and mental-health issues,” she said. sexual activist Christina Olague to that city’s Board of Supervisors. Brother Michael Oboza, a Chicago resident and an Eastern Rite Orthodox monastic monk, is also one of the Windy City’s leading bisexual activ- QUOTELINES ists. He was thrilled when he heard the news regarding Olague. compiled by kate sosin “As with gay people and their allies who were allowed to be humbled with Harvey Milk coming out gay, bisexuals and our allies are allowed to Q “What’s the average lifespan of a homosex- about how one of my songs, ‘Who I Am,’ be equally humbled with Christina Olague, the ual? It’s very short. Google it yourself.”— has inspired them. It’s a song that I wrote first out bisexual to serve on the San Francisco Tennessee Sen. Stacey Campfield to Michelan- in a moment of coming into my own as a Board of Supervisors,” Oboza said in a statement gelo Signorile, as posted to Huffington Post, man, discovering how my whole world was to Windy City Times. Jan. 26. setting up as an adult. It was great to see Olague realizes that her openness regarding people connect to that song in their own her bisexuality has attracted attention, which “…I will pose this to the entire LGBTQIA way, specifically bullied gay teens who she sees as a good thing. “It doesn’t hurt to community: Have you been able to do were encouraged to be exactly who they announce such things,” she stated. “It helps to two things as Rick Santorum very politely are.”—Tween pop sensation Nick Jonas to the validate people’s identities.” asked you? Have you been able to just stop Advocate, Feb. issue. She also had strong words for gay journalists Christina Olague. Photo from City of San being gay? His request was very direct and Michael Musto and Dan Savage, who, like others, Francisco simple. He’s like, just stop. And have you “I want to defend the children that we still have questioned the existence of bisexuality. guys been able to pray the gay away? Have are inside, the fragile sensitive souls who “It’s silly that these guys who have credentials you guys been able to knock that gay right no matter how much we tried were still told as journalists can determine whether or not for tenants living in SRO hotels, and co-chaired out with Jesus?”—Comedian Kathy Griffin to we were not good enough. I want to make someone’s behavior is legitimate or not,” she the committee that gave blue collar San Fran- Time Out Chicago, Jan. 19. the world safe and better and happy for us. said. ciscans the highest minimum wage in the coun- We deserve beauty, love, respect, admira- Olague brings an impressive resume to the try—$10.24 per hour. “Bullying is unacceptable, and specifically tion, kindness and compassion. If we don’t table. The longtime community activist spent Seven years ago, then-Supervisor Matt Gonza- with gay teens, it’s just wrong. Everyone get it, there will be hell to pay.”—Actress/ 10 years working in economically depressed San lez appointed Olague to the San Francisco Plan- needs to realize that this is a major issue, comedian Margaret Cho, on her website, Jan. Francisco neighborhoods doing everything she ning Commission. “I was a community advocate, and we need to do anything we can to help. 11. WCMG Night Spots Full Page.pdf 1/5/2012 3:09:18 PM could to improve the lives of people living on but I also had to make tough decisions about I’ve heard so many of our gay fans speak the fringes of society. She’s worked tirelessly land use,” she recalls.

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For tickets, visit chicagotakesoff.org or call Billy Surber at 773-989-9400 ext.235 6 Feb. 1, 2012 WINDY CITY TIMES Obama: ‘Leaving no one behind’ By Lisa Keen consideration.” Keen News Service Asked what, specifically, HRC asked for, Cole- Schwartz said, “We made the case for why sev- While there was only one direct reference to eral issues could and should be included in the anything gay in President Obama’s third State address, particularly how the need for workplace of the Union address, the speech and a large protections for LGBT people dovetails with the number of White House activities surrounding it President’s likely messages about jobs.” was inclusive of gays. In his first State of the Union address, Presi- President Obama’s opening remarks Jan. 24 dent Obama called for repeal of the federal law held out the military as a good example of barring openly gay people from serving in the people working together, adding that service military. And last year, just a month after sign- members “don’t obsess over their differences,” ing into law the bill that repealed “Don’t Ask, a comment that could certainly serve as a refer- Don’t Tell,” the president used his State of the ence to how well the military has adapted to Union address to urge universities that had been the repeal of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell,” the ban on barring military recruiters over the gay ban to gays. start allowing recruiters back on campus. His closing remarks returned to that theme. This year, President Obama brought an indirect “When you put on that uniform, it doesn’t spotlight on gays in the military by inviting one openly gay service member to sit with the First Lady in her special gallery seats in the House chamber to watch the speech. Aubrey Sarvis, head of the Servicemembers Le- Danny Sotomayor AIDS quilt in 2010. Photo by Tracy Baim gal Defense Network (SLDN), called the gesture “a clear victory in the fight to achieve full equal- ity for service members.” The service member was Col. Ginger Wallace, Sotomayor quilt on display Feb. 4 an openly lesbian intelligence officer in the U.S. The NAMES Project AIDS Memorial Quilt for the late activist Danny Sotomayor will be on Air Force. Also included among 28 guests was a display Saturday, Feb. 4 at the Center on Halsted, 3656 N. Halsted St. It will hang 4-9 p.m. second openly gay guest, Lorelei Kilker. Kilker, as a special tribute on the 20th anniversary of his death. There will be refreshments. an environmental chemist, filed a lawsuit that the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Com- mission used to secure equal pay for women at a Colorado company. Stein and Kook are now with Florentine. Wallace, of McLean, Virginia, and Kilker of Gay man alleges Stein has participated in the popular cooking Brighton, Colorado, were guests at a recep- discrimination at show Iron Chef America. tion at the White House and then traveled to The Illinois Human Rights Act (IHRA) pro- the Capitol with the First Lady. Their partners hotel restaurant hibits harassment, discrimination in the watched the speech at the White House at a spe- By Ross Forman workplace because of an employee’s sexual cial event. orientation. The IHRA also prohibits retalia- The National Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Com- Michael Reid is taking a legal stand against tion, such as discipline and termination, be- merce sent out a press release Tuesday, noting anti-gay bullying. cause an employee has filed a complaint of that its communications director, Laura Berry, A former waiter of now-closed Cibo Matto harassment and/or discrimination. would also be at the White House during the at the Wit, Reid has filed a complaint in Cook “Mr. Reid’s complaint stands for the prin- speech for a “social media watch party” that was County Circuit Court, alleging he was subject- ciple that bullying in the workplace is an to be followed by “a life Q & A with top Obama ed to workplace bullying because he is gay. unacceptable and unlawful form of workplace advisers.” Reid is represented by lawyer Betty Tsamis harassment,” Tsamis said. The Republican Party had its response to of the Tsamis Law Firm in Chicago. Reid, who lives in Chicago’s Lakeview neigh- President Obama’s State of the Union address, Reid’s complaint chronicles a history of of- borhood, is now in grad school for nursing at via Indiana Governor Mitch Daniels. And Log fensive and demeaning comments and ridicule DePaul University. The damages sought are to President Obama. Photo by Kat Fitzgerald Cabin Republican leader R. Clarke Cooper issued to which he was allegedly subjected by Cibo be determined, Tsamis said. a press statement Tuesday morning criticiz- Matto’s former executive chef, Todd Stein, and “As a civilized society, we have to draw a ing Democrats for “telling a thousand and one sous chef Rusty Kook. According to the com- clear, legal boundary that bullying behavior is matter if you’re Black or white; Asian or La- stories to distract the American voter, but even plaint, the comments and ridicule interfered not OK. It harms people and it harms of our tino; conservative or liberal; rich or poor; gay Queen Scheherazade couldn’t spin her way out with Reid’s ability to carry out his job duties, communities,” Tsamis said. or straight,” said the president. “When you’re of a thousand days without passing a budget.” Tsamis said. Reid added, “What happened really hurt me marching into battle, you look out for the per- “American families, gay and straight, all know Reid reportedly endured months of ridicule for a while, a long while, and it really messed son next to you, or the mission fails. When that the first step to regaining fiscal health is and one time watched as a male co-worker with me. Some people may not have had the you’re in the thick of the fight, you rise or fall writing a budget that clearly sets out priorities simulated oral sex with a loaf of bread, imply- resolve and conviction I did to stand up for as one unit, serving one Nation, leaving no one and limits spending to what you can afford,” ing this is what Reid did. themselves. If I can tell anyone who is being behind.” said Cooper. “Senate Democrats have engaged Reid complained to his direct supervisor, bullied anything it is this: you are worthy as Some media reports had speculated before in an unprecedented dereliction of duty. There is John Schadl. a person and you must stand up to bullies.” the speech that President Obama might use the nothing President Obama can say in the State of “I endured horrible and cruel comments on speech to call for the repeal of the Defense of the Union address tonight to hide their failure a daily basis,” Reid said. “I was mocked, made Marriage Act (DOMA) or to say that his personal from the American people. Just more words will fun of and imitated because I am gay. These Forum on Bayard attitude about same-sex marriage had evolved not alleviate voters’ discontent. Log Cabin Re- actions caused me to be depressed and un- Rustin’s life Feb. 9 to one of support. There were no statements publicans look forward to electing a Republican able to concentrate at work. I brought this Brothers OUTLive will celebrate the life from the White House to substantiate those Senate majority this November that is ready to complaint so that nobody else has to endure and legacy of the late gay civil-rights activ- reports, but Human Rights Campaign (HRC) get down to business.” this type of workplace harassment.” ist Bayard Rustin at Center on Halsted, 3656 media relations director Michael Cole-Schwartz White House officials took time to answer Schadl, in turn, complained to upper man- N. Halsted St., 6:30-8:30 p.m. at the Hoover- acknowledged that HRC had been “in touch with questions related to the state of the union agement about Stein’s alleged behavior. Leppen Theatre. the White House to express our desire to see via Twitter for the next several days after the Schadl then became the target of bullying The event will take place during Black His- LGBT people and issues included in the presi- speech. On Jan. 26, it held “community-focused and ridicule, accused of trying to protect Reid tory Month—and two days following National dent’s speech.” discussions with policy advisors,” including a because the two were having a sexual rela- Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day. There will be “Not only does the President have a record of specific time slot to address LGBT questions. tionship, which was false, according to the music, poetry and performance art by artists accomplishment to tout,” said Cole-Schwartz, And on Jan. 30, President Obama participated in complaint. such as Marshall Titus, Nhojj, Tim’m West, “including issues important to our community a Google+Hangout event from the West Wing of Wit management fired Schadl during the keithromell, and Ra Perre’ Shelton. can also be a powerful tool toward further prog- the White House to answer questions that had period in which he complained about Stein’s There is a $5 suggested donation; email ress. We understand that there are many com- been submitted. alleged treatment of Reid. [email protected] for more infor- peting demands on a state of the union address ©2012 by Keen News Service. All rights re- Reid ultimately was terminated for an al- mation. and we hope our community will be given due served. leged rule infraction. WINDY CITY TIMES Feb. 1, 2012 7 “We are not the Democratic Party’s candidate, Cassidy and Paula Basta, both members of the but we are the people’s candidate,” said Basta to LGBT community, will face off in the Democratic Steans, Cassidy supporters. “We will not have the institutional primary March 20. support, but we will have your support.” Basta did not attend the endorsement session, Basta is running on a platform of fighting cuts resulting in little consideration from the com- talk LGBT issues, to services for families and seniors. mittee on her candidacy. Her campaign has com- While she boasts a history of activism within mented in recent weeks that she lacks support the LGBT community, including past service on from party politicians, a fact Basta does not shy public transportation the board of Equality Illinois, Basta has not from. Basta’s campaign has said they are run- secured the same number of big-name endorse- ning the independent candidate, arguing that ments as primary opponent Cassidy. she is connected more to people than to politi- Basta and her team highlighted that fact at cians. the recent fundraiser, pitching their campaign Talk of an independent candidate appeared to as one driven by community members rather confuse 48th Ward Democrats, who briefly ques- than political power. tioned if Basta was running as an Independent, Bridget Dooley, a consultant for Basta’s cam- and not a Democrat. paign, said that Basta’s history is one of a Committeeman Carol Ronen confirmed that neighborhood leader, not a politician. Basta was, in fact, running as a Democrat, but “Paula’s life of service has included real work little discussion about her candidacy followed. with real people,” Dooley said. “This is someone Cassidy made her case to the committee, stat- who is deeply prepared to handle the needs of ing she hit the ground running when she took the people of the 14th District.” office in May. Cassidy also noted that she had Basta and Cassidy will face off in the March 20 turned down an endorsement inquiry from the primary. National Rifle Association. “I intend to be the loudest, most obnoxious opponent of conceal and carry,” she said, adding Cassidy gets that with Illinois being the last state to pass 48th Ward Dem conceal and carry gun laws, it would likely be a difficult fight. endorsement Ald. Harry Osterman, who preceded Cassidy on BY KATE SOSIN the job, also endorsed Cassidy. The committee voted to endorse Cassidy 40 to Kelly Cassidy is the 48th Ward Democratic Com- zero, with two abstentions. mittee’s choice for 14th District representative. Osterman also presented the new 48th Ward The committee threw its weight behind Cassidy map, which he said left the Edgewater neighbor- State Sen. Heather Steans (left) and state Rep. Kelly Cassidy at the forum. Photo by Kate Sosin at a Jan. 29 endorsement session at Edgewater’s hood intact. Broadway Armory Park. BY KATE SOSIN Cassidy also said she would be working on education issues and anti-bullying efforts. State Sen. Heather Steans and state Rep. Kelly Additionally, both said they are working with Cassidy are preparing to go back into legisla- Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) officials on re- tive session, and among their priorities are anti- vamping the CTA’s Red Line. Red Line stations bullying efforts and the passage of same-sex will be getting makeovers within the next 18 marriage legislation. The two presented their months. In the coming years, the line could be plans at an Edgewater town hall meeting with revamped entirely. constituents Jan. 26. However, Steans and Cassidy agreed that the Steans, who represents the 7th District, said most pressing issue is the state budget. she will be focusing on pension reform, disabil- “The next couple of years are going to be very ity advocacy and institutional reform, among brutal in that we’re going to have to make tough other things. Cassidy, who represents the 14th decisions around the budget,” Steans said. District, said she will work on the public, safety, foreclosure prevention and LGBT protections. Both Cassidy and Steans have been in talks Basta holds Rogers in recent weeks about re-introducing marriage Park fundraiser legislation. Cassidy said that will be a priority By Kate Sosin this session. “As a member of the LGBT community, I am More than 40 supporters attended a Rogers Park deeply personally committed to marriage equal- fundraiser for 14th District State Rep. candidate ity,” Cassidy said. Paula Basta at The Glenwood Bar. In addition, Cassidy said, she wants to intro- The informal fundraiser was one of several held Ambassador Hormel visits Chicago duce a family medical leave act for Illinois that recently for Basta, an out lesbian, who faces a Former U.S. Ambassador James C. Hormel was in Chicago for two events Jan. 25, one at his includes civil-union protections. The federal De- tough Democratic primary race against incum- alma mater, University of Chicago (class of 1958), and one a book-signing at the Book Cellar. fense of Marriage Act prevents same-sex spouses bent Kelly Cassidy, also an out lesbian. Several dozen students and staff at the university heard his lecture about becoming the coun- from benefiting from the federal act, she said. Few politicians attended the Jan. 25 fundrais- try’s first openly gay ambassador, to Luxembourg in 1999. The focus of the speech was on his As a consequence, many LGBT spouses in Illinois er, a fact noted by many Basta staffers who say new book, Fit to Serve. Hormel was interviewed in the Jan. 4 Windy City Times. Photo by Tracy cannot take time off work to look after a sick they are with the non-establishment candidate. Baim partner or child.

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4840 N. MARINE DRIVE CHICAGO, IL 60640 1-800-888-0560 www.chicagolakeshorehospital.com 8 Feb. 1, 2012 WINDY CITY TIMES GERBER from cover Much of those funds originated from bequests —Why is Gerber/Hart moving? basement on Sheffield Avenue and later moved and life-insurance donations that came to the —Is the library purchasing property or rent- to a storefront on Paulina Street before landing library over the last five years. ing? in Edgewater. space thus far. However, more current information on the or- —How many dues-paying members does Ger- It houses a significant portion of LGBT com- The library officially announced the move in ganization’s assets is inaccessible, in part be- ber/Hart have? Are these all voting members? munity’s historical documents and artifacts in an email newsletter to members Jan. 26, stating cause the library failed to file its 990 IRS form, —When was the 2011 annual meeting? its archives, which have been donated by com- that after 13 years of operation on Granville, “it the document that most tax-exempt non-profits —When was the last election of board mem- munity members. Over the years, many LGBT is time to move on.” are required to file on their finances annually. bers? leaders have served on the Gerber/Hart’s board “As to where and when we are moving—once Two staffers at the Illinois attorney general’s —Please provide the most current copy of the and served as its president. The space has also our deal is consummated (yes, consummated!), Charitable Trust Bureau confirmed that the li- bylaws. hosted numerous community events, local orga- you’ll be the first to know,” the newsletter read. brary filed for two extensions on its 990 forms. —What is the agency’s current bank balance? nizations and held its own programs and book Cecrle was not the only one who wanted the After the extensions, the form was due Nov. 15, —What are the anticipated costs of the move? clubs. library to stay in the neighborhood. Ald. Harry 2011, but it has not yet been filed. Sendziak wrote back Jan. 30: “Our legal coun- Many credit Sendziak with keeping such activi- Osterman said that he met with Sendziak two Robyn Ziegler, press secretary at the attorney sel is out of the country. Once our attorney re- ties alive, while others lament that space has months ago and asked what he could do to keep general’s office, said that in situations where a turns, we will obtain guidance from our attorney not been made for others within the organiza- the library in the neighborhood. He said he had as to how to proceed in answering your inqui- tion. ries.” What is clear about Gerber/Hart is that commu- Few seem to know much of anything about nity concern for the organization runs deep. the organization’s workings since 2009, includ- Jennifer Brier is professor of history and gen- ing the names of current board members. In der studies at University of Illinois-Chicago and nearly two dozen media inquiries sent regarding co-curated the Chicago History Museum’s Out the library, no source was able to name a board in Chicago exhibit. She said that archives like member beyond Sendziak. It is further unknown those housed at Gerber/Hart are vitally impor- when the organization had its last annual meet- tant to the community. ing and board elections. “Chicago is pretty unique in its longstanding The library, the Midwest’s largest LGBT library, commitment to recording, preserving and inter- has been a fixture in Chicago’s LGBT community preting the queer past,” Brier said. “And archives for more than 30 years. It opened in 1981 in a like Gerber/Hart are critical to that effort.” Forum looks at health issues facing older LGBTs

By Carrie Maxwell higher rates of breast cancer, due to obesity and lower rates of pregnancy/breast feeding; Rush University Hospital hosted a sympo- cervical cancer, since the time between pap sium, “Aging with Pride,” Jan. 25 to discuss smears is up to three times longer than het- health issues facing older LGBT adults. erosexual women; and cardiovascular health Speakers included Howard Brown Health due to smoking and stress. Also sexually Center’s Cecilia Hardacker R.N., the geriatric transmitted infections (STIs) and HIV among education program trainer, and Dr. Magda lesbians are still a concern since 70 percent of Houlberg, chief medical officer and provider lesbians have reported that they have had sex of internal medicine, HIV and geriatric medi- with a man sometime in their lives. There are cine care. Houlberg is also assistant professor lower rates of most STIs but there are similar in the section of geriatric medicine and pal- risks with those who have vaginal infections. The “for rent” sign in front of Gerber/Hart Library. Photo by Kate Sosin liative care at Rush University Medical Cen- As for men who have sex with men, Houl- ter. They presented their findings to about 50 berg said, their specific health issues include people, including nursing, pharmacy, psychol- everything from lung cancer since GBT men ogy, social work and medical students. smoke 50 percent more than other men to heard they were considering moving and re- non-profit fails to file a 990, the bureau sends Hardacker began by showing a clip from the anal cancer due rectal administration of rec- quested a meeting. a 30-day notice letter to the organization. That film Gen Silent, exploring the lives of LGBT el- reational drugs and a higher number of sexual “Gerber/Hart has been a phenomenal institu- letter has not yet been sent to Gerber/Hart but ders. Hardacker then explained that there are partners. tion in our community,” Osterman told Windy could be sent shortly, Ziegler said. societal, personal, financial and healthcare Within the transgender community, Houl- City Times. A failure to come back into compliance after barriers that LGBT elders face when trying to berg said “it is important to screen the organs He said that he told Sendziak that his office those 30 days may lead to legal action against gain access to healthcare: “One-third of LGBT that they have.” Violence/murder, substance wanted to help them stay in the neighborhood. an organization, Ziegler added. elders are at or below the poverty level and abuse, surgeries performed by untrained sur- He also said that he does not know if the library “Generally speaking, when that happens we more women than men are in that situation.” geons and mental-health issues affect the plans to move to another location in Edgewater would continue to pursue them and it could lead LGBT people, especially elder LGBT people, transgender community as a whole, Houlberg but said he “got the sense that it’s been a good to us filing a lawsuit for violations of the Chari- are less likely to access preventative care; explained. In addition, she said the long-term fit for Gerber/Hart and its community.” table Trust Act,” said Ziegler. more likely to enter the healthcare system use of hormones in transgender patients has Several sources close the library have won- Windy City Times contacted several sources later in the disease process; and less likely not been studied. dered why, if rent is not immediately increasing, close to the library for this story. Most spoke at to be screened properly due to provider as- Transgender women face cardiovascular risk the library has decided to move its more than length about a myriad of concerns for its future, sumptions, misinformation and patient non- and breast cancer related to estrogen use, and 14,000 volumes, 800 periodical titles and 100 but few would go on the record about the state disclosure of their identity and/or behaviors, the uninsured are more likely to use street archival collections. of the library or their history with it. Hardacker explained. hormones— which leaves them at a higher Sendziak has thus far declined to comment on To date, Windy City Times has not been able to Houlberg outlined the health disparities risk for HIV and hepatitis C due to needle use, the reason for the move. obtain the names of any board members, nor has that occur with women who have sex with according to Houlberg. Wil Brant, who served as the organization’s the paper been able to obtain a copy of the or- women, men who have sex with men, trans- As for transgender men, Houlberg explained, board president more than a decade ago, helped ganization’s current bylaws. Neither is published gender women and transgender men. Houl- there is a potential for ovarian and cervi- the library move from its Paulina Street loca- on the Gerber/Hart website, and Sendziak has berg explained that smoking, alcohol and cal cancer related to the lack of screening tion to its current home. Brant speculated that not provided such information. illicit behavior due to minority stress are in those areas by healthcare professionals. moving the current library will require a large Windy City Times posed the following ques- linked to worse health outcomes, adding that Breast cancer is also a risk due to residual volunteer base. tions to Sendziak Jan. 27: those who have experienced prejudice-related breast cancer tissue left after a mastectomy. “It’s a major undertaking,” he said. —What is your official title with Gerber/Hart? major life events are about three times more Testosterone use can also cause liver damage According to Brant, the Granville location had Is it a compensated role? If you are board presi- likely to have suffered a serious physical among transgender men. As with transgender to undergo renovations in order to support the dent, how long have you served in that capac- health problem over a one-year follow-up women, there are also health risks when un- library. That included reinforcing the floors to ity? period than those who had not experienced insured transgender men use street hormones. bear the weight of its books and installing two —Are there any compensated positions within such events. She also said health disparities A Q&A discussion with the speakers fol- separate air-conditioners—one for its special the organization? If so, who are they and what among LGBT people increase for members of lowed their talk. collection and another for its general collection. are their salaries? more than one vulnerable population, such as The Chicago Area Albert Schweitzer Fellow- Some have speculated that the Gerber/Hart in- —Who are the current board members and the poverty-stricken or a racial minority. ship and Rush University presented the sym- tends to purchase a space, rather than continu- what are their titles? Houlberg added that health issues among posium. ing to rent. —Did Gerber/Hart file a 990 form for 2010? If women who have sex with women include To learn more about the film, visit stumad- It remains unclear if the library has the finan- so, please provide a copy. ovarian cancer due to lower rates of preg- dux.com/GEN_SILENT.html. cial resources to purchase property. Going into —When did Gerber/Hart decide to move and nancy and less use of oral contraception; 2010, the library’s net assets totaled $235,976. did the board vote on this decision? WINDY CITY TIMES Feb. 1, 2012 9 CHANGES from cover whose email was forwarded, have spoken to WCT about the matter. Chauncey Black, whose email [Wathen] had announced an intent to use the is one of those in question, currently resides in Judge denies space for a purpose that would arguably high- Joe Hollendoner moved to. Mehdi was cited Missouri but has been a MACS participant since light his sexual orientation,” the judge wrote. along with Dr. Robert Garofalo as one of the two dismissal of 1984. He said he has never met Lindsay but was The Wathens are suing for monetary com- people whose treatment of a patient inspired his “shocked” that she was terminated. He acknowl- pensation and a commitment to end discrimi- father to become the “Angel Donor” who pro- B&B complaint edged that the violation was serious and that By Kate Sosin nation at the inns. The couple is represented vided a matching grant of $200,000 to HBHC. the program was doing good work, but that he by Betty Tsamis and the American Civil Liber- Alicia Ozier has joined HBHC, reportedly as a would think she would only be reprimanded for The Illinois Human Rights Commission has ties Union of Illinois. vice president of operations. Phone calls for- what appeared to be a first offense. rejected a motion to dismiss a case against warded to her voicemail led directly to a mes- Danny Kopelson has also been a MACS study a bed-and-breakfast that turned away a gay sage from Joe Hollendoner’s voicemail. WCT did Santiago among CFW’s participant since 1984. He is on the MACS com- couple for their civil-union ceremony last manage to get a direct phone call through to munity advisory board as well as the general year. her; she did not call back by WCT’s deadline. 2012 Impact honorees community advisory board of HBHC. He praised Todd and Mark Wathen of Mattoon, Ill., filed Chicago Foundation for Women (CFW) has Johnny Song, at one time head of the finance Lindsay’s work and acknowledged that she may suit against Beall Mansion Bed and Breakfast announced the honorees of its 2012 Impact department (his exact position appears to have well have committed a Health Insurance Por- and another similar business after the two Awards. changed), is also reported to be leaving. Song tability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) viola- allegedly refused to host their ceremony be- The awards will be presented Thursday, was hired by HBHC CEO Jamal Edwards. Song, tion, but also wondered about the extent of the cause they are gay. March 15, at the Venue SIX10 at Spertus In- when contacted by WCT, also said he would call penalty: “I’m not sure that is the kind of thing Beall Mansion owners had requested that stitute. The reception is at 6 p.m., and the back but had not done so at the time this went that someone could be warned about, written the case be dismissed, but on Jan. 20 Judge awards ceremony is at 7 p.m. to print. up, reprimanded for and maintain their job. Michael Robinson rejected the dismissal. Among the 10 awards is a posthumous one Also leaving is Daisy Mertzel, who worked on Or is that something so truly bad that even if The Wathens say that they inquired with to local lesbian activist Christina Santiago, social media relations at HBHC; she was another you love that person, you literally have to fire Beall in February 2011, in anticipation of who died last year. Among the other honorees Edwards hire. She has not responded to a WCT them?” Kopelson asked. having a ceremony when civil unions went are Cook County Commissioner Bridget Gainer, query. There is no information on where Song Another MACS participant, Harlen Fleming, de- into effect in June. They allege that inn own- attorney Kathreine M. Schon and lawyer/for- and Mertzel are going next. scribed the situation as “infuriating” and said er Jim Belote told them in an email, that “at mer Personal PAC Chair Jerry Newton. Kathleen Lindsay was terminated from her po- he would be moving his participation to North- this time, we don’t do civil unions (same sex CFW’s first Impact Awards honoree in 2005 sition as the MACS Project Coordinator at HBHC western University Memorial Hospital, which is, or opposite sex).” was Supreme Court Associate Justice Ruth Jan. 23, 2012. The MACS Project cohort at HBHC along with the CORE Center and HBHC, one of According to the Wathens, Timber Creek Bed Bader Ginsburg. Since then, more than 40 vi- consists of approximately 240 members, and three sites for the MACS study. So far, WCT has and Breakfast also turned them down, alleg- sionary leaders advancing the well-being of about 450 in Chicago overall, according to Lind- not received any news about whether others are edly writing in an email that the inn would women and girls in Chicago have been recog- say. considering this move. “never” host same-sex civil unions or wed- nized. According to Lindsay, she received a phone call WCT also contacted Margaret Pajak, health dings because “we believe homosexuality is For more information and tickets, see www. on that morning from Karen York, interim direc- information management director and privacy wrong and unnatural based on what the bible cfw.org. tor of employee services at HBHC. The reason officer at the University of Illinois at Chicago says about it.” given for her termination was that she had for- College of Medicine, for an expert opinion on The Human Rights Commission issued a no- warded two complimentary patients’ emails to Gloria Steinem at the matter. According to Pajak, what Lindsay did tice of “substantial evidence” in the cases her mother. is definitely a HIPPA violation of privacy and se- last fall. Columbia Feb. 7 Lindsay stated to WCT that she was informed curity rules. However, whether this constitutes a Beall Mansion had argued that because the Iconic activist and lecturer Gloria Steinem that her immediate supervisor, Christina Abaya, class 3 violation would depend on the organiza- Wathens were refused before the civil union will be the featured speaker for Columbia head of personnel in the research department tion’s definition of categories of violations. act went into effect in June, they did not dis- College Chicago’s Conversations in the Arts Pajak pointed out that patient confidentiality criminate by turning them away. at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 7. This season, the breaches in matters of drug and alcohol abuse But the judge rejected that claim, stating featured speakers are innovators who have and HIV/AIDS were considered particularly se- that the couple was suing on the basis of the shaped trends and topics in disciplines taught rious because of the stigma associated with Illinois Human Rights Act, which grants equal through Columbia College’s School of Liberal such issues, and a healthcare organization like access to public accommodations for LGBT Arts and Sciences. HBHC could justify much stricter penalties in people and other protected groups, not on The free public lecture will be in the Film such matters. Regardless of whom the emails the civil unions act. Row Cinema, 1104 S. Wabash Ave. Theater were sent to, patient confidentiality is a grave “[Beall Mansion] denied [Wathen] use of seating is limited so advanced registration matter. As Pajak put it, Lindsay could also have the space only after it had become aware of is highly recommended. Reservations are at forwarded the email to a friend who might know [Wathen’s] sexual orientation, and only after www.colum.edu/conversations. the patient concerned but not their HIV status. The MACS project consists of people who are both HIV-positive and negative, but it is widely known as an HIV/AIDS study and mere associa- tion might prompt speculation about a person’s status. Pajak also noted that the punishment in this case seemed “harsh” and that, in general, such matters are considered in light of other factors such as whether it caused harm to the patient. She said that Lindsay should have stripped all identifying information from the email, but “bringing it to that high of a level of discipline is questionable and a little strong.” However, she also pointed out that recent Your financial needs are unique. years have seen the department of Health and Whether you want to provide for your loved ones, support the organizations that are Human Services (HHS) being even stricter about important to you, or plan for your own comfortable retirement, I can help you plan for patient confidentiality, as made evident in the your goals. I’ll look at all aspects of your finances, then find solutions that are right for your new breach notifications rules set forth in 2009. unique needs. And as your goals and needs change, I’ll be there to adjust your plan and help She said, “With the enactment of the breach put your dreams within reach. regulations, we have to protect and notify the patient when the breach occurred and how. We Our Advisors. Your Dreams. MORE WITHIN REACH® also have to notify the HHS of all breaches on an annual basis. Also, when we notify HHS, we Call me today at (312) 849.3002 have to tell them what the breach was, what was Phillip J. Sitar, MBA 307 N Michigan Ave | Suite 1818 Danny Kopelson. Photo by Kat Fitzgerald disclosed, how many people were involved, what Financial Advisor Chicago, IL 60601 was done to mitigate it and what was done to Ameriprise Financial (312) 849.3002 prevent a similar breach from happening again. Services, Inc. [email protected] These regulations became stronger and institu- as well as the director of clinical research, had ameripriseadvisors.com/phillip.j.sitar tions are taking them more seriously and ad- expressed concerns about Lindsay in December dressing it internally with employees.” 2011. Abaya asked Wil Raj, vice president and Ameriprise Financial is proud to be WCT contacted Karen York and Michael Brady chief administrative officer, to go through Lind- recognized with another perfect score for comment. The publication also contacted on the Human Rights Campaign’s say’s work emails. The two emails found were Corporate Equality Index. Dr. John Phair of Northwestern University, who a result of that investigation and, according to spearheaded MACS in 1983 and still works with Lindsay, she was told that they are class 3 viola- Brokerage, investment and nancial advisory services are made available through the project, although he is no longer at the tions. Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc. Member FINRA and SIPC. Some products and treatment center. None of them had returned our A small number of people associated with the services may not be available in all jurisdictions or to all clients. calls by the press deadline. MACS at HBHC, including one of the patients © 2011 Ameriprise Financial, Inc. All rights reserved. 10 Feb. 1, 2012 WINDY CITY TIMES Activist John Pennycuff dies By Tracy Baim Human Rights Ordinance, and marched with gay 10 earlier when they were part of a marriage pro- contingents in Chicago’s downtown St. Patrick’s test at the same building. He was a gentle giant, a white man who crossed Day Parade. He also lobbied for increased hous- They protested many times for marriage rights. racial, geographic, ethnic and gender boundaries ing for people with HIV/AIDS. He showed up to On. Feb. 11, 2006, they were among couples to help build a Chicago community for all LGBTs. support African American LGBTs marching in the trying to get a marriage license from the Cook John Pennycuff, 47, died Jan. 29 after a two- South Side Bud Billiken Parade. County Marriage License Bureau. “Thank you for month illness. Pennycuff and Castillo were nearly insepara- providing disappointment to us and other lov- Pennycuff’s husband, Robert Castillo, was both ble, often holding up opposite sides of Queer ing same-sex couples who wish to marry,” Cas- his partner in life and his partner in hundreds of Nation and other banners. tillo said at the time. “Thank you for allowing protests, starting soon after the couple met at In 1995, Pennycuff joined the city’s Advi- the County Clerk to use you to turn away your a health club March 19, 1991. They would have sory Council on Gay and Lesbian Issues’ Advo- brothers and sisters. Thank you for serving as a marked 21 years together next month. Castillo is cacy Committee (which was renamed Advisory reminder why we must continue to fight for mar- joined in his grief by hundreds of friends, col- Council on Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgen- riage equality.” league and family members. der Issues). He later became a full member of On June 2, 2011, they were among the few There will be a one-day visitation, Thursday, ACLGBTI, which was shut down last year as sev- dozen couples who were united in a public civil Feb. 2, 3-9 pm, Jaeger Funeral Home, 3526 N. eral councils were combined into one. Pennycuff union ceremony at Chicago’s Millennium Park. Cicero Ave., 773-545-1320. Donations to the had stepped down from the committee earlier Judge Patricia Logue officiated at their union. costs of the funeral would be appreciated. In a 2007 video interview for ChicagoGayHis- tory.org, Pennycuff was asked what he felt his legacy would be. “I did what I could with what I had,” he wrote. “Getting married was a high Before receiving his 2003 Hall of Fame award point of our lives!!” He said defining moments from Mayor Daley, Pennycuff took to the mi- in his life, in addition to getting married, were crophone to demand more city funding for “taking Robert to my family reunion, coming out HIV/AIDS. Photo by Tracy Baim to my family” and having a long-term relation- ship. Most people expressed shock and great sad- San ness at the loss of Pennycuff, 6’2” with blue Francisco eyes, a warm smile, big laugh, and always a Mayor Gavin strong commitment to the rights of all people. Newsom Pennycuff served for many years on the Chi- (left) with cago Commission on Human Relations Mayor’s John and Advisory Council on LGBT Issues, was a member Robert. of Queer Nation Chicago, was office manager of Photo by Windy City Media Group (publishers of Windy City Tracy Baim Times) for several years, had worked for the Lo- gan Square Chamber of Commerce and for 35th Ward Ald. Rey Colon. He was also a volunteer in ACT UP, the Emergency Clinic Defense Coalition, Equal Marriage NOW, the Coalition Against Bash- ing, and many other groups. He donated to many organizations and political campaigns. In 2003, Pennycuff was inducted into the Chi- cago Gay and Lesbian Hall of Fame. He used the Robert Castillo (left) and John Pennycuff at the public civil union ceremony downtown Chicago, occasion to hijack the microphone and push for June 2, 2011. Photo by Tracy Baim a $1 million increase in city HIV/AIDS funding. Prior to the induction, he had also protested the event—a rare “triple” in activism: protesting in 2011, and he was too ill to attend the last The couple’s activism ran deep enough to outside, speaking out inside, and shaking the meeting of the group in December 2011. cause them to get them arrested for their cause, mayor’s hand as he received his crystal award. In February 2004, Pennycuff and Castillo were including for dancing together at Sidelines bar In front of Mayor Richard Daley, Pennycuff among the same-sex couples who traveled to San in Harwood Heights in February 1994, soon af- stated: “Last Wednesday, the Mayor released Francisco to be among the first few thousand ter the Cook County Human Rights Ordinance his proposed budget for 2004. It was at that same-sex couples married in the United States. passed. Three couples were dancing—two gay time that many of us were shocked to learn that, They waited in line from 6 a.m. until 5 p.m., male couples and one lesbian. Only the two male despite intense lobbying by AIDS advocates for when City Hall stopped issuing licenses for the couples were arrested. They were nicknamed the a $1 million increase in HIV-prevention funds, weekend. They returned and got married March “Dancing Queens” during the subsequent trial, Pennycuff and Castillo getting remarried at the city was proposing an increase of a mere 5; however, a decision by the California Supreme the first to use the new law protecting discrimi- San Francisco’s city hall, June 27, 2008. Pho- $100,000. I’m here tonight to give you several Court nullified their marriage. They remarried in nation based on sexual orientation. Lambda Le- to courtesy of the couple reasons why $100,000 is not enough!!” He listed San Francisco June 27, 2008—and their mar- gal represented them in the case. The bar even- several points, including that more than 11,000 riage is among about 18,000 in legal limbo as tually settled out of court, but their high-profile people in Chicago had died of AIDS. And be- the battle against anti-gay Prop 8 winds its way activism had an impact—the bar had to post a cause African Americans alone account for 65 through the courts. non-bias poster and paid a cash settlement. percent of recently diagnosed adult AIDS cases “The marriages were the proudest moments of On Easter Sunday 1993, Queer Nation protest- and 61 percent of recently diagnosed adult HIV my life,” Castillo said. “Especially the first time, ed again the Armitage Baptist Church, protest- cases. during the ‘Winter of Love’ in San Francisco,” ing their anti-choice anti anti-gay positions. A The couple also pushed hard for transgender where Mayor Gavin Newsom married gay and les- group went to the church to observe. Two Queer inclusion in city and county laws. For one of bian couples. Nation members walked up to the pastor, and Mayor Daley’s Pride Receptions they made and “When John and Robert were married in San they were removed from the church. Pennycuff handed out 500 buttons stating, “I support Francisco [in 2008] they returned to Chicago to and this reporter were also arrested and held at the Gender Identity Amendment.” Their years- lead the Chicago Gay Pride Parade,” remembered the jail for a few hours before being released, long efforts paid off. In November, 2002, the photographer Israel Wright. “What an exciting and all charges were later dropped. City Council added gender-identity protections time to finally see our fellow comrades celebrat- Pennycuff and Castillo took their activism be- to the city’s Human Rights and Fair Housing or- ing such a joyous occasion.” yond LGBT issues. On March 20, 2003, they were dinances. As Windy City Times reported at the The couple traveled to San Francisco again in among 850 arrested at the now infamous anti- time: “Members of It’s Time, Illinois (now the 2009 to witness first-hand part of the Prop 8 war demonstration opposing the U.S. govern- Illinois Gender Advocates), Equality Illinois, trial. ment’s war on Iraq. The March 26, 2003 Windy and ACGLI all attended the City Council vote. Pennycuff and Castillo were first in line when City Times reported on their arrests, as well as IGA had worked on the measure for seven years. Cook County started its domestic partnership other LGBT anti-war activism. ACGLI’s Robert Castillo was particularly pointed registry Oct. 1, 2003. They took turns waiting “Many of those arrested in a Chicago Police out for his work on the measure. Castillo and his starting at midnight, and at 8:30 a.m. they be- Department roundup of non-violent protesters partner John Pennycuff were constant advocates came the first gay couple to have their relation- March 20 were GLBT, including several well- for the amendment.” ship validated by Cook County government. Cook known activists who described an out-of-control From 1992-2000, as a member of Queer Na- County Clerk David Orr issued the historic cer- police force angry that demonstrators had ini- Pennycuff and Castillo at a 2009 protest tion/Chicago, Pennycuff helped to organize an- tificate. Pennycuff and Castillo carried a photo march. Windy City Times photo ti-violence marches, lobbied for the Cook County taken by Nightlines (now Nightspots) more than Turn to page 11 WINDY CITY TIMES Feb. 1, 2012 11

After picketing across from the Marriage License Bureau in Daley Plaza in February 2006, Penny- John and Robert registering with Cook County Clerk, October 2003. Photo by Tracy Baim cuff and Castillo were part of a group that stormed the county building. Windy City Times photo.

PENNYCUFF from page 10 a big deal out of it. He had handed the officers him say an unkind word about anyone. He was their civil union certificate from the state of Il- what I aspire to be. John was an optimist, and tially gotten the upper hand,” Windy City Times linois, but one officer still asked who the “next could bring a little joy into any situation. John reported. “Among those arrested were John Pen- of kin” was. “I said I was his family,” Castillo and Robert were once arrested for dancing to- nycuff and Robert Castillo, longtime activists said. gether at a bar in the suburbs. I bailed them out who said they were just observing the march. Pennycuff was born in the Logan Square area of jail, and although it had been a harrowing Both were handcuffed behind their backs, forced of Chicago and attended Monroe Elementary and experience, John emerged with a shaky smile, to stand in paddy wagons to 111th Street, and Taft High School. He transferred to, and gradu- shouting movie quotes about being falsely im- the jail cells were so crowded people took turns ated from, Badger High School in Lake Geneva. prisoned. He could finish your sentences for sitting overnight in the jail. Neither Castillo or He attended classes at Columbia College. you, ease the tension in a room with his quirky Pennycuff … were charged.” Survivors include his mother Dorothy Ives, sis- laugh, or fold you into his arms as you mourned Both Pennycuff and Castillo were plaintiffs ter Tracy Ives, brother Jeff Pennycuff, and many together the loss of another friend, too soon, in the civil-rights class-action. Pennycuff was other family members and friends. John Pennycuff (left) and Robert Castillo in too young. The community has lost an irreplace- physically injured when his hands were hand- A funeral and memorial will be planned. Windy 2008 at a party for WTTW’s Out & Proud in able ray of light, Robert has lost his loving hus- cuffed so tightly that it caused him swelling and City Times will update as details become more Chicago film. Photo by Kirk Williamson band, and many of us have lost a dear friend. pain. His individual case was settled in 2009. available. John always said that he did all that he could, Castillo is one of the class members in the civil- with what he had. It is his legacy and challenge rights class-action, Vodak v. City of Chicago, Remembrances to us that we strive to do the same. Be at peace, which is set to go to trial Feb. 21, 2012 at the Following are remembrances of John Pennyc- John. I miss you.” Dirksen Federal Building. uff from community members and friends: Judge Pat Logue: “The news of John’s pass- Pennycuff and Castillo were also active in Lo- William B. Kelley: “John was always a deter- ing was a shock and made me so, so sad. John gan Square politics. A rainbow flag outside of mined advocate for community concerns. Some- was as gentle as a teddy bear but turned fierce their previous home was a frequent target of times he also found himself in a peacemaker’s as a mama grizzly when it came to standing up vandals, who burned or ripped down the iconic role, maybe because of his personality, maybe for LGBT equality, relationship rights, and many gay symbol—including after their domestic because of his abiding religious commitment (he other issues. John grew to become an immov- partnership was registered in 2003, when they was also active in his United Methodist Church). able force for our community and on broader received two hate-filled, unsigned letters. “I was He was always beside Robert Castillo as an ally equality issues. He stood side by side with Rob- shocked at first, I couldn’t believe we would get and spouse. Though his demeanor was quieter, ert Castillo as formidable political partners and, hate mail,” Pennycuff told WCT. “This is the first he was as dedicated as Robert to promoting the most importantly, loving husbands to one other. time we have received hate mail in the 12 years welfare not only of our sexual-minority popula- It was my great honor to marry them (again) in we have been activists in the community.” tion but also of other groups in need of justice. Millennium Park and represent them for Lambda They were active as a couple in local politics, He and Robert, individually and together, have Legal. I’ll never forget the roller coaster ride of including with the Unity Park Advisory Council, been a force for community empowerment ever the ‘Dancing Queens’ case—from John and Rob- where Pennycuff volunteered—it was a park since they were in their 20s.” ert being arrested and jailed for dancing togeth- where he had played as a child. Pennycuff was Gary Chichester: “When I first met John er at a bar and, ohmygosh, sharing a kiss, to the also appointed a lay speaker in 1999 at Grace and Robert in the ’90s, it was a time when I vindication of the civil trial, where we countered United Methodist Church of Logan Square. thought activism was non-existent in the youth the bar’s claim of being a ‘family values sports Among the protests Pennycuff attended was communities. My mind was quickly changed as bar’ by making sure the hearing officer knew one against the House of Blues in 2004, when I saw their energy and the style of their activ- the lyrics of the song (‘Stroking’) playing dur- the venue booked anti-gay singer Capleton. ism. Their energy not only recharged my desire ing their arrest. We shared many laughs and our Castillo, distraught at the loss of Pennycuff, to create change, but showed the LGBT youth of John Pennycuff in 2003, receiving his city work overlapped many other times, the lawyer fondly remembered his partner honoring his re- today the way to go. John will be greatly missed Gay and Lesbian Hall of Fame Award from in me giving a brief shudder and then a broad quest to sing a Barry Manilow song, “I Am Your and my heart goes out to his husband, Robert, Mayor Richard Daley and Commission on Hu- smile learning of John’s most recent adventures Child,” in their apartment. “I keep think of him and his family.” man Relations Chair Clarence Wood (center). for equality, understanding the need for multiple singing that, dancing, his arms swinging at his Laura Rissover: “I am deeply saddened at the Photo by Tracy Baim strategies to move foward. My heart goes out to sides,” Castillo said, holding back tears. death of John Pennycuff. He was one-of-a-kind, Robert and the rest of John’s family circle. Along The 2003 death of their friend and fellow ac- and his absence leaves a tremendous void in my with so many others, I will miss John and his tivist Gerardo Montemayor strongly impacted heart, and the community. Since meeting John smile dearly. Pennycuff and Castillo. They wrote an essay in at a Queer Nation meeting more than 20 years Rick Garcia: “The loss of John Pennycuff is the Aug. 1, 2003 Windy City Times about their ago, we have been friends and co-conspirators. a huge loss for the LGBT community in Illinois. memories of him. “He leaves a giant hole to fill It is impossible to tally the evenings we spent As far back as I can remember, John was out, and our community may not ever realize how im- together dreaming about possible futures, plan- proud and committed to fairness and justice. portant his work was, but many of us who have ning protests and marches, writing press re- John never wavered if there was an issue to had the privilege of knowing and working with leases and speeches, and hitting the streets to be addressed—whether a demonstration at the Gerardo will make sure that his fire will continue put our convictions into action. Yet, this is not Cardinal’s mansion, a City Hall or Cook County to ignite us,” the couple wrote. “Besides being what I remember most about John. Yes, he was Commission meeting or traveling to Springfield an activist, Gerardo was and will always be our always on the front line, hand in hand with his to advocate for our community. He was tireless, ‘sistah.’ Sleep well our prince.” husband Robert. Yes, John was brave and tire- and a real fighter. He will be sorely missed. But, Those same words could also reflect the life of less, dedicated to working toward his vision of his legacy lives on in the many successes our John Pennycuff. equality for all people, always. And yet … what John Pennycuff (left) and Robert Castillo community has had because of his tenacity, On the day Pennycuff died, when the police I will remember most about John is his soul. with Hal Sparks (center) from Queer as Folk, bravery and commitment. May he rest in peace came to the apartment, there was some confu- John was gentleness and kindness personified. in San Francisco in 2009. Courtesy of Castillo and may his life be an example to all of us.” He was a peacemaker. In 20 years, I never heard sion, but Castillo said he did not want to make and Pennycuff Turn to page 12 12 Feb. 1, 2012 WINDY CITY TIMES from the merger of two leading national HIV/ AIDS organizations, The National AIDS Fund and She is survived by her sister, Janet Hutton; AIDS Action, uniting the core strengths of stra- her son, Stephen Turner; her daughter, Martha Mark tegic grantmaking and capacity-building with Turner; and four grandchildren. Ishaug. HIV/AIDS policy expertise. A memorial service will be held March 17 Photo by In a separate statement, Mike Szkatulski of at the Sanibel Congregational United Church Hal Baim Mesirow Financial and President of Thresholds’ of Christ, 2050 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, Fla. board of directors called Ishaug’s appointment A tribute to Stephens will also take place in “visionary,” and he cited Ishaug’s inspired and June at RVA’s Visionary Awards Gala. dedicated leadership to the Chicago social ser- vice community as a driving force behind the PASSAGES decision to hire. “Mark has a long history of service to Chi- Randy Williamson Randy Williamson, a member of the Chicago cago,” Szkatulski said. “He has a proven track chapter of the LGBT group American Veterans record within the community, building public/ for Equal Rights (AVER) was born Oct. 20, private partnerships and fighting stigma and 1949, and passed away Jan. 29, 2012 in an discrimination among vulnerable populations. Dr. Natalie Stephens. Photo from RVA apartment into which he had recently moved. His experience parallels the work we do at The cause of his death is not known. Thresholds. We are honored to have him join our Williamson served in the U.S. Navy from leadership team to bring his expertise and im- Founder of 1963 through 1969 and has been active with Ishaug leaving pressive tenure within the Chicago social service AVER Chicago for many years. community.” Rape Victim AIDS United post Members of AVER and Senior Action in a Gay Onetime AIDS Foundation of Chicago Execu- Advocates dies Environment (SAGE) are seeking contact in- tive Director Mark Ishaug is stepping down as Dr. Natalie Stephens (Turner), the founder formation for his family. The two groups will president and CEO of AIDS United, effective Feb. Chicago awarded of Rape Victim Advocates (RVA) died of natu- plan a joint memorial service at the Center on 29, according to a press release. Ishaug has ac- $1M in HIV funding ral causes Jan. 13 in Fort Myers, Fla. She was Halsted. cepted a position as CEO of Thresholds, a Chica- The City of Chicago has been awarded nearly 91. Further information will be posted at www. go-based non-profit focused on serving persons $1 million towards HIV services, the Department Prior to retiring to Florida, Stephens lived windycitymediagroup.com with mental illness. of Public Health (CDPH) announced Jan. 29. in Chicago for 50 years. She was dedicated to Following Ishaug’s departure, Senior Vice The award, totaling $933, 300 from the fed- providing to caring for to rape victims, cul- President Victor Barnes will serve as interim eral government, will go toward HIV testing and minating in the founding of a nonprofit that president and CEO. The board of trustees expects counseling in Chicago mental health and sub- continues to support and protect victims 38 Randy to commence a process to select a permanent stance abuse agencies. years later. Williamson president/CEO shortly. “Community Mental Health Centers provide the RVA responds to 11 hospitals across metro- at the “AIDS United has had a phenomenal inaugural large majority of mental health services in Chi- politan Chicago and reaches more than 1,200 Veterans Day year, and Mark has been a tremendous leader. We cago, “said CDPH Commissioner Bechara Chou- survivors of sexual violence each year through dinner Nov. understand and respect his decision to pursue a cair in a statement. “Incorporating HIV testing comprehensive services as well as more than 11, 2011. new position that brings him back to his home and treatment in these settings is a critical step 10,000 children, youth and adults through Photo by state and his family,” said Douglas Brooks, chair in enhancing our overall infrastructure.” prevention education work. Stephens contin- Larry of AIDS United’s Board of Trustees. “I am con- The city is currently accepting funding propos- ued her commitment to RVA throughout the Simpson fident that Victor Barnes and the AIDS United als through Feb. 17. There is more information years, serving as honorary chair for the orga- staff are well positioned to build on our 2011 on submitting proposals is available at www. nization’s 30th-anniversary gala. successes, begin implementation of our three- cityofchicago.org. Stephens was preceded in death by her hus- year strategic plan, and advance our ambitious —Kate Sosin band of 50 years, Lawrence L. Turner, in 1998. mission to end AIDS in this country.” AIDS United was launched in January 2011

PENNYCUFF from pg. 11 DJ Harry T: “John was a gentle giant that when he and Robert would walk into the room, they just lit up the place, embracing you with a Israel Wright: “First I want to say goodbye to warm smile and big hug. I’m going to miss you one of Chicago’s treasured soldiers in the pur- so much!” suit of equality and recognition of Gay, Lesbian, Jim Darby: “I can’t believe that John is Bisexual, Transgender and Questioning people. gone. He was so young and handsome and one My connection to John and Robert date back of those people that I expected to be around far too many years and too many activities to forever. I’m numb. I first met John and Robert capture in such a short space. We did so many in 1993 at a Memorial service that Chicago Gay activities together that now it seems so historic Veterans were holding for Allen Schindler. Rob- and yet happening without much effort. It is ert and John said there would be a demonstra- hard to imagine a world where John and Rob- tion to be held at the Federal Building to protest ert are not working together to make significant the Navy’s cover-up of Allen Schindler’s death. changes in our society. As a photographer for We were pleased to be included. And it was the Windy City Media Group I had the opportunity to first of many protests and demonstrations that photograph lots of community events to which they convinced us to participate in. The Irish John and Robert lent their support. They tran- Parade was the worst—the marches Against Vio- scended the racial, economic and ethnic barri- lence were the best. I was constantly amazed ers, to make sure we were all aware of changes at how this pair could get so many people to that were needed to create equality for all of us. come out no matter what they were doing. The If there was a demonstration it was not surpris- protest against the State of Colorado Tourist Of- ing to look up and see John and Robert holding fice [to protest Amendment 2, an anti-gay law in signs marching along with others John was the that state] was the most bizarre. They brought quiet man who did so much to make sure we all a cake with candles up to their 8th-floor office, were treated fairly.” and lit the candles. The poor secretary thought Ed Negron: “Whenever there was a protest or they were going to throw it in her face and im- something was being lobbied you could count mediately rang for security. We were all escorted on John Pennycuff to be there. John was one The Illinois civil union license for Robert Castillo and John Pennycuff, June 2, 2011. Photo by out by the police. Such a handsome and perfect of the most sincerest, devoted members of the Tracy Baim pair. The world is just not going to be the same LGBTQ Community. He was a gentle giant.” without John.” Joey Mogul: “John was a genuinely kind human Chicago Human Relations Commission’s Advisory work and activism of Danny. He told me some Pennycuff’s 2007 interview with Tracy Baim being who consistently and tirelessly advocat- Council on LGBT Issues. Chicago’s LGBT commu- his favorite cartoons over the years, and I was for the Chicago Gay History Project is online ed for the rights of all people, including LGBT nities, and the city, are diminished by this loss. happy to offer him a collection of copies. It was here, under the “Biographies” button: www. people, police brutality survivors, and victims of He will be much missed.” obvious how tickled he was for he and Roberto chicagogayhistory.com injustice. He was a treasure and he will be sorely Lori Cannon: “As we approach the 20th an- to receive them. John showed many kindness- Also please see a 2003 guest viewpoint in missed by us all.” niversary of Danny Sotomayor’s death (2-5-92), es over the years. I’ll always remember him as Windy City Times by Pennycuff: Views: $1 Mil- Beth Kelly: “I was stunned and saddened to I can’t help but reflect on both John’s and Rob- a humble and selfless sort. His loss is quite a lion Increase ... And Nothing Less at the link: learn of John’s passing. He was an exemplary ert’s deep and abiding affection and respect shock. I hope the end was peaceful for him. He www.windycitymediagroup.com/lgbt/VIEWS- activist and I was honored to work with him for they both had for Danny, in life and death. John and Robert made a memorable team. My deepest 1-Million-Increase--And-Nothing-Less/894. several years as a member of the now-defunct was very public about his feelings on the life, condolences go out.” html. WINDY CITY TIMES Feb. 1, 2012 13 Mar Curran doesn’t have much free time these days, so he rarely watches TV and or sleeps for long. Instead, he’s focused on building his resume, an impressive sight, T in the to say the least. Curran: —Is the co-chair of the Intercollegiate Alliance, composed of LIFE queer students from throughout Chicago, including Loyola, DePaul and other schools; —Is a board member for the Video Action League, an activism group that uses new media to transform, inspire and educate around Mar Curran social-justice issues; Text AND PHOTOS BY Ross Forman —Writes for “In Our Words” blog; and —Is a noted poet, having read at All The Writers I Know, a queer literary showcase. Have your “I’m pretty busy these days; there’s never a dull moment,” Curran said. “But I’m enjoying what I’m doing.” premiums Curran especially enjoys his role as president of the Loyola Univer- sity organization Advocate, the student-run queer group on campus. Curran is one of only a few transgender students in the group, which increased features about 50 active members and a mailing list of about 400. “I get to work directly with queer youth [who are] com- recently? ing out and finding themselves; that’s very rewarding,” Curran said. See me: He also had a key role in Loyola’s annual fundraising drag show to benefit Advocate. Charles T. Rhodes, “What I do isn’t just for me or the people I know, but Agent for future generations coming to Loyola—to make it a 2472 N. Clark better, safer, more understanding school, especially since it is a Jesuit school,” Curran said. “My work is very re- State Farm773.281.0890 Mutual Automobile Insurance Company warding.” (not in NJ) State Farm Indemnity Company (NJ) Curran was a presenter last February at the annual Midwest Bisexual Lesbian Gay Transgender Col- Home Offices: Bloomington, Illinois lege Conference, held in Michigan. Curran spoke about how to negotiate with an administration as a Age queer group on campus. The 2012 event will be held in Iowa; Curran doesn’t know yet if he will be a 22 presenter again. Sunday, Feb. 5 Lives in The Advocate sells T-shirts annually as part of LGBTQ Heritage Month. Last year’s shirt had the slo- 4:30 p.m. Edgewater gan “Loyola Supports Love.” Meet the Candidate: Relationship status Brad Trowbridge The transgender Curran is single: “I’m queer, so I’m open-minded [to date] Friday, Feb. 10 whoever comes along, male or female 7:30 p.m. or other.” Granta Magazine Cats Reading & Conversation Has two, named Kiko and Sausage Featuring Chinelo College Okparanta Is a senior at Loyola University, and and Nami Mun will graduate next May Dream job Working with queer youth in the 5233 N. Clark foster-care system (773) 769-9299 Brotherly love In tribute to his brother Patrick, who died as an infant 16 years ago, he had his initials (“PJC”) tattoed on his right bicep. Little-known fact [email protected] Does not know how to ride a bicycle www.womenandchildrenfirst.com Parking Available Wheelchair Accessible 14 Feb. 1, 2012 WINDY CITY TIMES

A special series in partnership with the AIDS Foundation of Chicago Getting personal with state Rep. Greg Harris By Andrew Davis pretty new in Chicago, and then [I had] to find a doctor who could deal with it. I went to my doc- The accomplishments of State Rep. Greg Harris, tor, who just said, “I’m aware of this, but I know D-13th, are numerous. Since being elected to nothing about it. You need to find other physi- the Illinois General Assembly in 2006, one of cians who know about this.” Then, like a number the highest-ranking openly gay elected officials of other people, I dealt with it for many years to date in Illinois has done everything from ad- with really bad addiction problems—so it wasn’t dressing the need of comprehensive breast-can- pretty. I was already down that road; however, cer services to being the chief sponsor of the Re- finding out you had this horrible, deadly disease ligious Freedom Protection and Civil Unions Act. probably accelerated the process. He is now meeting with leaders to talk strategy WCT: You’ve always struck me as someone about a marriage-equality bill that could be in- who was very strong. How did you find the troduced as soon as next year. strength to crawl out of that hole? However, for this talk in this Windy City Times GH: I think I did it the same way that most Rep. Harris at a November 2011 event at Sidetrack. Photo by Erica Demarest AIDS @ 30 series, Harris—who is HIV-posi- people do: You get a moment of grace and clari- ty—saying, “I can’t go on doing this”—and you tive—got a bit more personal. In this interview, this out. There was no network of primary care; that, for some people, the problem is solved for ask for help. You then get the help you need. It he discussed the annual event known as World there was no network of legal-assistance people; them and the people they know. For those who did take me many years from the time I initially AIDS Day as well as the day he found out he and there was no place to get food or pastoral the problem is not solved, you can ask, “Why asked for help until the time I got it. There are had HIV, co-founding the agency Open Hand and care. aren’t you organizing around AIDS?” and they’ll some people who try to get clean and sober who what fighting HIV has taught him about himself. So, different people responded in different say, “In the whole scheme of problems—like can do it right away; other people struggle with Windy City Times: World AIDS Day, as you ways and set up [agencies] like Chicago House getting a job and having food to eat—it’s just it for many years, and I was one of those people. know, took place Dec. 1. Do you recall how and Bonaventure. Howard Brown became an one more thing.” People say they’d love to be I was pretty much out of money and out of plac- you marked it? AIDS provider instead of essentially an STD clin- AIDS activists, but they need to be activists es to live, and was just very fortunate to get Greg Harris: I continued to do my job and was ic, which it had been for many years. You had against poverty and homelessness—and they some help. really happy we were able to restore a lot of the AIDS Pastoral Care Network and the AIDS can’t do it all. WCT: Could you talk about how you co- the funding to the areas that are important to Legal Council [of Chicago]. The AIDS Foundation There are also fewer resources in the media. founded [the HIV/AIDS agency] Open Hand? be able to sustain themselves—in addition to of Chicago started harnessing corporate support. The media’s attention is sometimes diverted, GH: Sure. That was a case in which during the prevention and care and treatment. [Those areas None of these things that the community takes and there are tons of other things to cover. early days of AIDS, there was no support for include] mental health, substance-abuse treat- for granted even existed. The community had WCT: On a more personal level, how has be- people who had the disease. Having AIDS was ment and homeless services. to start and create them from nothing—but it ing positive affected relationships and dat- stigmatized back then—and being gay was stig- I think that, for a lot of folks, HIV is just one pulled so many people together. Everyone knew ing, if at all? matized back then. It was a time before when more issue that they deal with within the full someone who was struggling with this disease GH: The biggest problem about my dating life some people were even willing to say the words spectrum of poverty in this environment. So it’s and everyone was, to be honest, possibly ter- is being an elected official. I think then you get “gay” and “lesbian.” not only important that people have access to rified that they could be next. Back then, there to the other problems: “I’m annoying” or “I’m We saw our friends getting sick and dying primary care and drugs, but if you don’t have a were no drugs; I don’t believe AZT had come out HIV-positive.” It’d be easier if you didn’t spend around us. The government was ignoring them. home or don’t have food or are struggling with yet. It was largely a death sentence. half the year in another city [Springfield, Ill.]. There were no community institutions to help addiction or mental-health problems, you’re not WCT: I remember talking with the writer WCT: How do you feel the state government them. The philanthropic community and the going to be able to sustain yourself on treat- Edmund White, who told me that hundreds of has responded to the AIDS crisis? corporate community—this was something that ment. So we have to provide for all of these ser- his friends passed away in the ’80s. I can’t GH: I think it’s been fairly good, but 2012 is wasn’t on their radars at the time. So, myself vices—not just for people with HIV but for a lot even imagine. going to be a crisis year—not just for AIDS but and the other dozen or so folks who started of people who are suffering right now because of GH: Well, I virtually know no one of my ilk for almost every cause. There had to be substan- Open Hand said, “If we all know people who the economy. from back then. Very few, if any, survived. tial cuts [in 2011], but this year we’re going to cannot feed themselves because they don’t have WCT: Is that day like any other day for you? WCT: You mentioned that there’s apathy see another billion dollars in pension costs and money or the strength to do it, then there have Some people say that every day should be about AIDS now. What do you think is the another $5 billion in Medicaid liability. It’s go- to be other people who don’t have friends or World AIDS Day. biggest reason for that? ing to post huge challenges, whether it’s school family who can support them.” We talked about GH: I think it’s important now for the main- GH: I think that, for a lot of folks, their re- programs; breast- and cervical-cancer programs; the fact that no one who has AIDS in Chicago stream media, in particular; AIDS in American sponses or circumstances are driven by their or HIV programs. We’re going to have to make should ever go hungry. That’s how we started is an afterthought. I think there’s a lot to be own personal experiences. So for people right some tough decisions. Open Hand. said for the theory that prosperous white gay now who are taking care of their insurance and WCT: Was AIDS the main reason you got in- WCT: You’ve also been involved with several males can be taken care of through insurance getting their meds regularly, the experience may volved in politics? other HIV/AIDS organizations. and healthcare, and that HIV/AIDS became be different. I don’t say this judgmentally, but GH: [Laughs] It was the only reason I got in- GH: Yes. If you look at all of the organizations largely a disease of poverty—people who didn’t I know the way people think about things. To volved in politics. I had no interest in it before; that are now big institutions—big buildings and have the wherewithal to organize big fundrais- them, it’s way less of a problem than it used to I was happy just making a lot of money (as CEO big staffs—back then it was a bunch of people ers and get media attention. It has fallen off be. of a national trade association) and running sitting around kitchen tables trying to figure a lot of people’s radar, and more people think It’s not necessarily apathy; it’s the thought around and partying. The only reason we became the problem has been solved. But if you look at involved in politics was we realized that if we the numbers coming out, you’ll see skyrocketing didn’t step up, we were going to be ignored— rates of infection in youths—particularly youths and people were dying. Some people went into of color—and that tells a different story. It’s as more direct action like ACT UP; others got into bad or worse, and we’re paying less attention to community organizing, which led into political it. activism. WCT: You mentioned on the Chicago Gay The other thing about politics is that it’s a History website that you first read about seniority-driven system, so the longer someone GRID [gay-related immune deficiency, later is in it … . When decisions are made and the named HIV] in 1981. Did you think we’d still doors are shut and the haggling goes on in the be at this point where we’re still without a back rooms (which are no longer smoke-filled), cure? everyone who’s there is going to be represented GH: I don’t know if I thought about that. I and get their piece of the pie. It’s critical that wish I had deeper thoughts. our community be there when that pie is cut. We WCT: Take me back to when you were first have to stand up for ourselves. told you were HIV-positive. WCT: Living with HIV, what have you learned GH: I was pretty much in total shock. I found about yourself? out, not because I went to be tested for HIV, but GH: I’m really rather stubborn, and I’ve learned because I had to go through a medical test for to be grateful for each day I’m given. The other an insurance policy. They came back and said, thing is that you don’t know which day will be “By the way, here’s this information.” Back then, your last, so you have to be careful to do the Rep. Greg Harris and Water Reclamation District Commissioner Debra Shore from September in 1988, no one knew what this even was. It was things you really want and need to do. 2011. Photo by Ed Negron. WINDY CITY TIMES Feb. 1, 2012 15

stakeholders and organizations for sustained Ramon Gardenhire, Brothers OutLive participation in the initiative. The SLC includes director of government present: Bayard six national organizations that work together relations at the AIDS Centennial honoring to address specific issues which influence the Foundation of Chicago. course of HIV/AIDS in African American com- Photo by Erica Demarest. Black AIDS Day munities across the United States. On Thursday, Feb. 9—two days following Na- tional Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day—Brothers OUTLive, will celebrate the life and legacy of gay ‘Life Skills’ intervention civil-rights activist Bayard Rustin at Center on may reduce HIV risk Halsted. Young transgender women are at increased Honoring the diverse communities served by risk for HIV infection due to factors related Center on Halsted during Black History Month, to stigma/marginalization and participation and bringing attention to the alarming rates in risky sexual behaviors, according to a study of HIV especially among young Black men who from Children’s Memorial Research Center, the have sex with men (MSM), the event will feature research arm of Children’s Memorial Hospital. music, poetry, and performance art by nation- To date, no HIV-prevention interventions have ally known artists such as Marshall Titus, Nhojj, been developed or proven successful with this Tim’m West, keithromell, and Ra Perre’ Shelton. population. To address the gap, Robert Garofalo, The event will be held 6:30-8:30 p.m in Hoover- MD, MPH and colleagues developed a behavioral Leppen Theatre at Center on Halsted. intervention targeting the unique mechanisms ‘Pizza and policy’ at AFC Since his death in 1987, Bayard Rustin, main of HIV risk among an ethnically diverse sample By Erica Demarest The legislation should ease fears related to organizer for the 1963 March on Washington led of young transgender women aged 16–24 years. reporting overdoses. Similar bills have been suc- by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., has been celebrat- The Life Skills intervention curriculum in- The AIDS Foundation of Chicago (AFC) hosted cessful in Connecticut, Maryland, New Jersey, ed as a gay icon. cluded information on sexual health, HIV 101, “Pizza and Policy” Jan. 23 at its downtown Chi- New York, New Mexico, Utah and Washington— Brothers OUTLive is a creative collaboration safer sex techniques, healthy communication, cago office, 200 W. Jackson Blvd. not to mention on more than 100 college cam- between celebrated Chicago-based artists Mar- partner negotiation, and how to identify and As community members and healthcare em- puses. shall Titus, Nhojj, and Tim’m West. The three access community services. Individual sessions ployees sat down to a complimentary pizza — A bill that would focus on harm reduction began discussions in late 2011 about ways to provided participants with a personally tailored dinner, AFC Director of Government Relations in correctional settings was never brought to a use the arts to bring about greater social aware- plan to reduce HIV risk behaviors. The overall at- Ramon Gardenhire walked the audience through vote. The legislation would give inmates access ness about many issues within the Black LBGT tendance and retention rates demonstrate that the latest in HIV/AIDS policy news. to condoms, a move some prison officials claim community. Through a series of events includ- small group-based HIV prevention programs for In 2011, the AFC focused its attention on a could lead to drug trafficking concerns. ing their works and that of other collaborating young transgender women are both feasible and handful of key legislative efforts in Springfield, After the 2011 roundup, Gardenhire shared artists, Brothers OUTLive seeks to mobilize the acceptable. Although conducted with a small Ill. with the audience AFC’s plans for 2012. The non- LGBT community around such issues as ho- sample outcome measures suggest that par- — The first, a bill that allows for opt-out HIV profit will implement at a local level President mophobia and HIV/AIDS. ticipation in the intervention may reduce HIV- testing in prisons, was signed into law Aug. Obama’s National HIV/AIDS Strategy, which AFC related risk behaviors. For example, participants 12, 2011. HIV rates are about 2-3 times higher President/CEO David Ernesto Munar helped draft. Black HIV/AIDS significantly decreased both the frequency of among inmates than in the general population; Obama’s strategy calls for three points: to re- unprotected sexual acts with casual partners the new law moves HIV testing toward becoming duce new infections, to increase access to care Awareness Day event at and the number of main sexual partners follow- the norm. and to reduce HIV-related health disparities. ing participation in the Life Skills intervention. — A second piece of legislation, signed by Gardenhire expressed concern over the Illinois Trinity “This pilot project was unique in targeting On Feb. 7, the 12th National Black HIV/AIDS Gov. Pat Quinn Aug. 25, 2011, makes it man- budget crisis. Gov. Quinn recently proposed a 9 the HIV-risk behaviors of adolescent and young Awareness Day, Gilead Sciences and other ex- datory to report all CD4 and viral load testing percent across-the-board budget cut that would adult transgender women, a very at-risk group perts will participate in a discussion and round- results to local health department officials. exclude education and healthcare funding. Many and one that has been woefully absent from the table at Trinity United Christ of Christ, 400 W. “This can help us with prevention strategies,” AIDS organizations worry whether they’ll be filed scientific literature. Our success has resulted 95th St. in Chicago. The free program is 9 a.m.-2 Gardenhire said. “So if we’re seeing that the viral under “healthcare,” which would be exempt, or in funding by the National Institute of Mental p.m. and includes food provided by Gilead and load is really high in one particular community, “human services,” which will suffer funding loss- Health for a five year study,” said Garofalo. “In VITAS Innovative Hospice Care. that community and public health officials can es. conjunction with the Fenway Institute and Har- This event is sponsored but the Coalition for wrap their minds around: Is there not enough Financial and structural changes to the AIDS vard University, we at Children’s will now con- Justice and Respect. medication? Is there a lack of access to care?” Drug Assistance Program (ADAP) were also a duct the first-ever efficacy trial of a HIV preven- RSVP: [email protected] by Feb. 3, — Comprehensive sex education was high concern. Eligibility for ADAP will be cut from tion intervention for young transgender women 2012. on AFC’s list. A bill co-sponsored by state Sen. 500 to 300 percent of the federal poverty level, in the U.S.” Heather Steans and state Rep. Camille Lilly and clients must reapply for assistance every six Garofalo thanked the transgender community would have required schools that provide absti- months or face getting cut off from the program. Terry Angel Mason of Chicago for their participation in the proj- nence-only education to also offer medically ac- In 2012, the AFC will push for anti-bullying named Black HIV/ ect, saying “we could never have gotten to this curate, developmentally appropriate contracep- policies, as well as partner notification for in- point without you, and our hope is that the Life tion information. mates who test HIV-positive. It also plans to AIDS Awareness Skills curriculum you helped us develop proves “There are many school districts across the focus on a law that requires health departments spokesperson successful in helping young transgender women state that teach abstinence-only, or they teach to notify principals when a student tests posi- Writer Terry Angel Mason was selected as the lead happy and healthy lives.” misinformation about the effectiveness of sexu- tive for HIV. National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Spokesper- al preventative measures,” Gardenhire said. “For “It is a holdover from the 1980s,” Gardenhire son for 2012. February 7, 2012 will be the 12th instance, school districts may say that condoms said. “We’ve had some opposition from the Prin- annual observance of National Black HIV/AIDS are only 20 percent effective, which we know is cipal’s Association, who feel that they need to Awareness Day, a nationwide community mobili- completely not true.” know [a student’s status] even though there’s zation effort to emphasize the HIV/AIDS “State The Illinois Board of Education would deter- no medical research reason why they should. of Emergency” among African-Americans. The mine curricula, and parents could opt of sex There’s already universal precautions, where if a theme is “I am my Brother/Sister’s Keeper: Fight education entirely. The bill passed the Senate, child falls and scrapes his knee, they’re required HIV/AIDS.” and will be brought to a vote in the state House to use gloves.” Mason will be assisting NBHAAD in meeting its during the upcoming session. The law has already been amended to limit objectives by using his international platform to “It’s one of our key legislative priorities be- testing notification for students who are in el- encourage individuals to get educated about The Windy City Times AIDS cause unfortunately the only uptick in new HIV ementary school. HIV/AIDS, get tested, get treated, and get in- @ 30 series, originally infections that we’ve seen has been in youth,” “The beauty of this is that there’s not very Gardenhire said. many K to 5th graders who are being tested for volved in advocating for the resources necessary slated for April-December to fight the disease. National Black HIV/AIDS — Both houses of the Illinois General Assem- HIV,” Gardenhire said. “It’s somewhat of a de Awareness Day will target 14 major cities to pro- 2011, will continue through bly passed the EMS Access Act, which is awaiting facto repeal.” mote HIV/AIDS Awareness events and activities: February 2012. Turn to a signature from Gov. Quinn. The bill allows for A final legislative priority will be to extend the Quality of Life lottery; all proceeds from the suc- Atlanta, Baltimore, Dallas, Detroit, Chicago, Windy City Times each week people who call 911 in potential overdose situ- ations to receive partial immunity for any drugs cessful scratch-off ticket program go toward HIV Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New Orleans, New for more news and features. York, Oakland, Philadelphia, Raleigh-Durham found in their systems. prevention efforts across the state. The program and Washington, DC. See past articles online at “We’re seeing a spike in overdoses across the has raised more than $3 million to date, but is The National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day www.windycitymediagroup. state,” Gardenhire said. “Many times people set to end in December 2012. freak out and leave the scene, and unfortu- “When we have independent lines of revenue is led by a Strategic Leadership Council (SLC) com/aids.php. that provides guidance, direction, and strategic nately, people die. … In drug overdoses, time is during a budget crisis,” Gardenhire said, “it’s thought to engage African American community critical.” even more important to protect them.” 16 Feb. 1, 2012 WINDY CITY TIMES WINDY CITY VIEWPOINTS TIMES an even bigger wrench into the equation. I am not “fluid” in my sexuality, and neither While some argue that women are more prone are most of my lesbian friends. But I do know VOL. 27 No. 17, Feb. 1, 2012 tracy The combined forces of Windy City Times, to the “nurture” side because of a more fluid some women and men who identify as gay or les- founded Sept. 1985, and Outlines newspaper, baim sexuality, I don’t think it is as simple as that. I bian who have changed back and forth in their founded May 1987. think women, starting in the 1970s, took a very identity, and sometimes identify as bisexual. political approach to identity politics, and it was Why should it matter what we call ourselves? If PUBLISHER & EXECUTIVE EDITOR empowering to believe we control “our bodies, the haters don’t give a hoot about why or how Tracy Baim ourselves.” For men, because of the pressure to we got this way, we should never try to limit ASSISTANT PUBLISHER Terri Klinsky be masculine and fit a male stereotype, it was who gets to fit into our community. MANAGING EDITOR Andrew Davis easier to place the power elsewhere, with Moth- I also do not believe we should base our quest BUSINESS MANAGER Meghan Streit In defense of DIRECTOR OF NEW MEDIA Jean Albright er Nature, not mother nurture. for civil rights on an argument that we “can’t ART DIRECTOR Kirk Williamson Cynthia Nixon: The bottom line is that those who hate us, help ourselves” because of our genes. This is a SENIOR ACCOUNT MANAGERS: Terri Klinsky, Amy want to cure us or even kill us don’t really take very dangerous and slippery slope. There have Matheny, Kirk Williamson, Dave Ouano, Kirk Smid the time to understand these nuances. Yes, if been fictional books and films made about this PROMOTIONAL SUPPORT Cynthia Holmes Why ‘Born NIGHTSPOTS MANAGING EDITOR Kirk Williamson we were “born this way,” that might make some topic: if there is a gay gene, should it be elimi- NATIONAL SALES Rivendell Media, 212-242-6863 This Way’ people think it was an immutable characteristic nated, or a child aborted, if it’s found? Science SENIOR WRITERS Kate Sosin, Bob Roehr, Rex and that therefore there might be no “cure.” But fiction isn’t usually very far removed from sci- Wockner, Marie J. Kuda, David Byrne, Tony Per- doesn’t matter egrin, Lisa Keen, Yasmin Nair, Erica Demarest honestly, this does not make anyone love us any ence. THEATER EDITOR Scott C. Morgan more. In fact, there are many inherited charac- I welcome the diversity of opinion between Cynthia Nixon is in hot water with some gays CINEMA WRITER Richard Knight, Jr. teristics upon which people discriminate (physi- Cynthia Nixon and John Aravosis and others on BOOKS WRITER Yasmin Nair for comments she made to The New York Times cal abilities, for example), or, at the very least, this topic. But I don’t think Nixon is wrong to SPORTS WRITER Ross Forman about whether she “chose” to be gay, or was ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT WRITERS cause people to feel sorry—or want to cure. “choose” how she defines her own life. If the “born that way.” Here is an excerpt of what the Mary Shen Barnidge, Steve Warren, Lawrence That doesn’t make these people think they are right wing does use her words as a way to at- Ferber, Mel Ferrand, Jerry Nunn, Alicia Wilson, Sex and the City star said: worthy of civil-rights protections. Ask African tack our community, I don’t think it will be any Jonathan Abarbanel I gave a speech recently, an empowerment COLUMNISTS/WRITERS: Yvonne Zipter, Jorjet Americans if they think being “born that way” more vile than what they already do. They try speech to a gay audience, and it included the Harper, Lee Lynch, Lisa Keen, Charlsie Dewey, helped during the hundreds of years they fought to “cure” us and deny our civil rights no mat- line “I’ve been straight and I’ve been gay, and Carrie Maxwell, Billy Masters, Tyler Gillespie, Sarah for equal rights, or ask women about being born ter what the basis of our true selves. We have Toce, Dana Rudolph, Sally Parsons, Emmanuel gay is better.” And they tried to get me to that way and how that helped get the right to a common enemy here, and it is not Cynthia Garcia, Jamie Anne Royce, Joe Franco change it, because they said it implies that ho- SENIOR PHOTOGRAPHERS Kat Fitzgerald, Mel vote or other rights. Nixon, or those like her who come out as proud mosexuality can be a choice. And for me, it is a Ferrand, Hal Baim, Steve Starr, Emmanuel Garcia, And on the opposite side of this debate, reli- in their own unique identity. Dave Ouano, Tim Carroll choice. I understand that for many people it’s gious choice is a protected category, and yet it Yes, some of us may be born this way, and CIRCULATION not, but for me it’s a choice, and you don’t get is not something we are born with. The right- if you believe this, more power to you. But I CIRCULATION DIRECTOR Jean Albright to define my gayness for me. A certain section of DISTRIBUTION: Ashina, Allan, Dan, John, Renee, wing understands protecting religious “choice,” welcome anyone into our big tent, regardless of our community is very concerned that it not be Sue and Victor just not gender or sexuality “choice.” If they their genitals and the genitals they love. seen as a choice, because if it’s a choice, then WEB HOSTING: LoveYourWebsite.com (lead pro- hate us, they hate us, and how we got this way grammer: Martie Marro) we could opt out. I say it doesn’t matter if we just doesn’t compute in their narrow minds. In a statement to The Advocate posted Jan. 30, flew here or we swam here, it matters that we Yes, there are some who advocate a “nature Cynthia Nixon clarified her comments and now are here and we are one group and let us stop Copyright 2012 Lambda Publications Inc./Windy City Media made us this way” argument to help us accept said she believes that she is bisexual and that Group; All rights reserved. Reprint by permission only. Back trying to make a litmus test for who is consid- issues (if available) for $5 per issue (postage included). ourselves. But others still try to get gays to sup- being bisexual “is not a choice. She said in part: ered gay and who is not. Return postage must accompany all manuscripts, drawings, press their sexuality, or transgender people to “I believe we all have different ways we came to and photographs submitted if they are to be returned, and This nature-vs.-nurture argument has been de- no responsibility may be assumed for unsolicited materials. suppress their gender identity, no matter how the gay community and we can’t and shouldn’t bated in the LGBT movement for decades. All rights to letters, art and photographs sent to Windy they got that way. be pigeon-holed into one cultural narrative which City Times will be treated as unconditionally assigned I can say that I am pretty much a Kinsey 6 for publication purposes and as such, subject to editing I empathize with people who believe that can be uninclusive and disempowering. However, when it comes to measurement scales. But hav- and comment. The opinions expressed by the columnists, Cynthia Nixon may in fact simply be bisexual, to the extent that anyone wishes to interpret my cartoonists, letter writers, and commentators are their own ing covered the LGBT community since 1984, and do not necessarily reflect the position ofWindy City and thus that being with women may represent words in a strictly legal context I would like to and having identified as lesbian since my teen Times. Publication of the name, photograph, or likeness of making a “choice” between the two genders to clarify: While I don’t often use the word, the tech- a person or organization in articles or advertising in Windy years in the late 1970s, I have always been in- City Times is not to be construed as any indication of the which she is already attracted. But this identifi- nically precise term for my orientation is bisexual. trigued by who gravitates to the nature argu- sexual orientation of such person or organization. While cation of our sexuality is rather artificial. Likely, I believe bisexuality is not a choice, it is a fact. we encourage readers to support the advertisers who make ment, and who to nurture. this newspaper possible, Windy City Times cannot accept no one is genetically created to love a specific What I have ‘chosen’ is to be in a gay relation- To generalize, it seems that more men go with responsibility for advertising claims. body part. There are probably many things we ship. ... I do, however, believe that most mem- “born this way,” while more women see either (773) 871-7610 FAX (773) 871-7609 inherit and also experience once we are created bers of our community—as well as the majority e-mail: [email protected] or a combination of nature and nurture, or all (in the womb and outside of it) that flip our of heterosexuals—cannot and do not choose the [email protected] “choice.” Add in the new field of epigenetics triggers—it could be gender, but it could also be gender of the persons with whom they seek to (which posits there are some triggers that do www.WindyCityMediaGroup.com dozens of other things. Why do we like someone have intimate relationships because, unlike me, change our inherited genetic code, and which radio: WindyCityQueercast.com with dark hair, or someone who is short, or tall, they are only attracted to one sex.” might be a reason sexuality actually could video: QueerTVNetwork.com or with blue eyes, or male, female or transgen- change over a person’s lifetime) and we throw der? WINDY CITY MEDIA GROUP, 5315 N. Clark St. #192, Chicago, Illinois 60640 U.S.A My nephew and I visited the new National Fame gallery—Stephen Sondheim and Leonard (MAILING ADDRESS ONLY) MARK Museum of American Jewish History (NMAJH) Bernstein—who are both closeted thanks to the in Philadelphia. The museum opened a little museum; neither of their displayed bios men- Windy City Times Deadline every Wednesday. SEGAL Nightspots Deadline Wednesday prior to street date. more than a year ago with much fanfare. It was tions it. OUT! Resource Guide ONLINE a spectacular debut with the likes of Barbra Not only is this discrimination by censorship, www.WindyCityMediaGroup.com Streisand, Bette Midler, Steven Spielberg and it reminds me of a time when, in the Jewish www.WindyCityMediaGroup.com Jerry Seinfeld. The museum not only covered tradition, if you discovered something about a www.WindyCityQueercast.com www.QueerTVNetwork.com the plight of Jews in coming to the States; it member of the family that was shameful, you

showcased their religious and political views as didn’t talk about it. Does the museum find LGBT “Windy City Media Group generated There are no well. It also highlights 12 people from the Jew- shameful? This becomes somewhat personal for enormous interest among their readers gay Jews ish community who represent who Jews are and me since, in my family, one of my cousins was in this year’s LGBT Consumer Index their contributions to American society. one of “those individuals.” Survey. Out of approximately 100 It’s a shock and a failure on the part of the At the tender age of 16, my cousin Norman For me, the aging process has led to a clearer print and online media partners who museum that we gay Jews do not exist—a to- was asked to leave his home. As a child on the participated in the survey, Windy view of equality. After all, it has been the pas- tal failure, and they should bow their heads in streets in the 1950s, he was homeless and had City was the best performing regional sion of my life for 42 years. Everywhere I travel, shame. That’s a tough statement, but as I went a life of drugs and alcohol. And growing up, we media in the U.S. Only survey partners I’m in search of how our community is depicted. through the museum and saw how Jews dealt children occasionally heard his name and asked with a nationwide footprint were Unfortunately, I notice we are not always in- with the Revolutionary War, the Civil War, the about him. We were told we don’t talk about able to generate a greater number of cluded. That is discrimination by censorship. fight for civil rights and women’s rights, it was cousin Norman. Imagine growing up, knowing responses.” ­­—David Marshall, Research And unfortunately, many of our national organi- obvious that something was missing: LGBT. In you’re gay and discovering the real story of Director, Community Marketing, Inc. zations get a failing grade on this subject. They fact, I didn’t find those four letters anywhere in cousin Norman. How do you tell your parents? don’t understand the seriousness of this cen- the museum. Do you worry about what the rest of the family sorship. Even GLAAD doesn’t know the history Here’s the rub: Many of the most prominent will think? Does it sound like the 1950s? That of the battle to end censorship in mainstream pioneers of the LGBT community were Jewish; is what the NMAJH has done. On behalf of my media. They must learn that our collective his- perhaps the best-known, Harvey Milk, does not cousin Norman, shame on you! tory is the building blocks for our future, and even get a mention. In fact, in what might look Mark Segal is the nation’s most-award-win- the justification of why our struggle for equality like a backhanded insult to the LGBT community, ning commentator in LGBT media. He can be deserves to become a reality. there are two gay men in the museum’s Hall of reached at [email protected]. WINDY CITY TIMES Feb. 1, 2012 17 GOINGS-ON WINDY CITY TIMES’ ENTERTAINMENT SECTION

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SCOTTISH PLAY SCOTT sociate artistic director. He would prefer that Victory Gardens didn’t need to rent out its spaces at the Biograph The- ater to other theater companies, but with Victo- Talking with ry Gardens’ current deficit he sees the rentals as a necessary but hopefully temporary salve. But if Victory Gardens isn’t always producing its own shows in the Biograph’s two theaters, Yew would Victory Gardens’ like to at least curate the rentals so they might tie in more closely to his company’s output. Yew said he hopes to be a good fit with Victory Gardens, and that its audiences will be willing to Chay Yew go along for the ride. BY SCOTT C. MORGAN performed by its ensemble, Ameriville isn’t en- “Chicago theater audiences are tough and de- tirely representative of the direction that Yew manding,” Yew said. “Chicago is about change, Typically when new artistic directors of theater is planning to take Victory Gardens, which has too, and I think that the exciting thing is that organizations take over, they’re often saddled been long characterized by its large stable of the change actually makes the city more vibrant, with a planned-out season created by their resident playwrights. more exciting.” predecessor. However, Chay Yew, the Singapore- “I hope to evolve the playwright ensemble,” Ameriville by UNIVERSES in development with born and out new artistic director of Chicago’s Yew said, hoping to bring in younger Chicago- Chay Yew continues in previews before an of- Tony Award-winning Victory Gardens Theater, based playwrights in addition to the current ficial opening on Feb. 6 at the Victory Gardens found a way to put his own personal stamp on alumni. “If I were one of the theater’s play- Biograph Theater, 2433 N. Lincoln. Regular per- the season when there was an unexpected open- wrights, I would have been very grateful and formances then run 7:30 p.m. Tuesdays through ing. happy that I’ve had a home for so many years Saturdays, with 4 p.m. matinees on Saturday Theresa Rebeck’s new play What We Are Up and that the home belongs to them. Except and 3 p.m. performances on Sundays (a 2 p.m. Against was announced for Victory Gardens’ that I think we also need to start spreading the matinee on Feb. 15 replaces that date’s evening 2011-12 season, but she had to cancel once she wealth and I’ve spoken to these playwrights, performance). Tickets are $20-$40 for previews became busy with her new job as the creator and too, because they themselves are also teachers and $20-$50 during the regular run (student, head writer of the forthcoming Broadway-set TV and mentors and they see that many of their senior and rush tickets available). Call 773-871- series Smash (premiering Feb. 6 on NBC). So as students are not getting produced.” 3000 or visit http://www.victorygardens.org. a replacement production, Yew programmed in Exactly what shape Victory Gardens’ play- Chay Yew. Photo by Lia Chang Ameriville, a previous collaboration he directed wrights ensemble will look like under Yew’s ar- Sudden parting with the New York-based ensemble UNIVERSES tistic directorship is still being worked out. And Remy Bumppo Theatre Company’s new artistic that looks at the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina as an Obie award-winning playwright himself director Timothy Douglas abruptly resigned his go on the backburner, much the way that his in 2005 and questions how America might react (other honors include citations from groups like post a couple of weeks ago midway through his role model playwright/director George C. Wolfe if a similar disaster occurred again. GLAAD and the Rockefeller MAP Fund), Yew is first season with the company. According to a shifted his artistic energies after directing the “It’s good for us all to have a piece to remind trying to find a new balance between his previ- report in the Chicago Tribune, both Douglas and Broadway production of Angels in America in everyone that citizenship is not free, democracy ous roles as a writer and director. the Remy Bumppo ensemble of actors agreed 1993 and running The Public Theater in New is not a given and that we all have to partici- “I’ve been feeling a little pinched because it’s that his hiring was a “bad fit.” Remy Bumppo York. pate,” Yew said, noting how an updated produc- really hard to navigate the left brain and the ensemble member Nick Sandys is to become the Yew has also started making some changes at tion of Ameriville is timely in a Presidential elec- right brain,” Yew said about his new administra- interim artistic director. Victory Gardens with the recent hire of Geoffrey tion year. tive duties leading Victory Gardens. “I just have Send theater news and other related tidbits Jackson Scott as its new director of new play As an 80-minute theater piece suffused with to be more rigorous with myself.” to [email protected] and to An- development, who joins with Sandy Shinner who hip hop, song, poetry and dance written and He admitted that playwriting will have to [email protected]. maintains her position as Victory Gardens’ as- 18 Feb. 1, 2012 WINDY CITY TIMES

THEATER REVIEW privileged-elite guilt and how to manipulate the jury’s share of these factors to engineer Race an acquittal for their client. Oh, by the way— Playwright: David Mamet attorney Jack Lawson is white, co-counsel Enron. At: Goodman Theatre, 170 N. Dearborn St. Henry Brown is Black and Susan, their rookie Photo by Phone: 312-443-3800 or associate, is both female and Black. Lara www.goodmantheatre.org; $25-$94 When Susan protests the skewing of the Goetsch Runs through: Feb. 19 case away from the alleged sex crime toward racial attitudes, her boss snaps “What’s the BY MARY SHEN BARNIDGE difference?” Mamet makes the case that, in our society, the two are inseparable. The clue- The play is short—100 minutes with an inter- less perpetrator gets his comeuppance, if not mission—the characters talk very fast, and his day in court. So does the smug Lawson, there’s almost no physical action, so you have whose cynicism renders him oblivious to what to listen closely. The author’s trademark salty Brown calls “postmodern” prejudice—a dy- language is conspicuously meager. (Three of namic not only interracial, but gender-linked the four people we see onstage are lawyers, as well. (However, savvy Mamet aficionados you see, and they choose their words care- know to always keep a watchful eye on the fully.) Chicago theatergoers who feared that woman in the picture.) their homeboy had lost his touch after the In the end, we never learn what really hap- THEATER REVIEW Prebble’s metaphor for free-market economics— slam-bang farce of Romance in 2006 can re- pened. Credit the Goodman production’s re- a carnival replete with barbershop-harmony lax, however—David Mamet is back, doing strained overall concept—deft direction by Enron warblers (representing the stock analysts), ven- what he does best. Chuck Smith, a smartly chosen cast (Marc Playwright: Lucy Prebble triloquists (the accountants), tableaux vivants The premise is simple enough: A man has Grapey, Geoffrey Owens, Tamberla Perry and At: Timeline Theatre Company (the lawyers), side-show freaks (the Lehman been charged with raping a woman in a ho- Patrick Clear) swapping dialogue as incisively at Baird Hall, 615 W. Wellington Ave. Brothers) and nursery-rhyme characters like the tel room. The man is rich, powerful, married, hyperarticulate as if they were doing Stop- Phone: 773-281-8463 or Three Blind Mice (the Enron board members). middle-aged and white. The woman is poor, pard and Linda Buchanan’s straight-from-the- www.timelinetheatre.com; $32-$42 When the chief financial officer names his fic- young and African-American. The slowly store decor for the law offices—for riveting Runs through: April 15 tional enterprises “raptors”—after the popular emerging evidence of the police and hotel our attention to discourse calculated to guide sci-fi film, Jurassic Park—he soon acquires a staff point to a violent struggle, but the ac- us wherever Mamet wants us to go, lobbed at BY MARY SHEN BARNIDGE menagerie of greenback-chomping dinosaurs. An cused proclaims his innocence, declaring the rat-a-tat tempo to send us home with brains adrenaline-pumping tempo is maintained by vid- encounter to have been consensual. His at- humming so busily, you can almost hear them Minutes into the office party that opens the eo screens flashing the ever-fluctuating market torneys don’t care about any of this. Instead, in the lobby. play, new operations manager Jeffrey Skilling quotes and a running score of visceral boxing- their focus is minority-group resentment, declares that “people don’t understand how this arena music. (At one point, an executive who works”—”this” being the mechanics of high fi- engages in a free-for-all with a pack of traders is nance. He is correct, and this is what enabled rewarded with a promotion.) the real-life Enron corporation to swindle mil- It’s a circus, forged by a technical-design staff lions of bewildered stockholders out of billions George Lucas himself might envy, but Rachel of dollars by means of a shell-and-pea game as Rockwell’s musical and stage combat directorial primitive as the kind played on curbs and sub- expertise renders its logistics always crisp and Race. ways. How, then, do you recount its history precise, even when executed at road-runner ve- Photo by Eric Y. Exit without likewise losing your audience in a mo- locity, as the nine-actor ensemble zips through rass of arcane jargon? changes of scenery, costumes and masks with British playwright Lucy Prebble looks to Shake- lightning agility. At the center of the dazzle is speare’s tragedies to solve the problem, translat- Bret Tuomi’s brilliant portrayal of the power- ing the events that made “Enron” synonymous drunk Skilling, whose eyes glow like a crocodile’s with fat-cat fraud into a fable of a flawed hero as he revels in the gullibility of his inferiors. endowed with too many brains and too much Even in defeat, he continues to deny wrongdo- ambition, and, as such, vulnerable to the intoxi- ing, instead faulting the capitalist system that nomic and racial differences. cating lure of gaming fever and numbers with allows greed to triumph. Is he right? You’ve got Black Hence we have a McMonagle as Susannah, a too many zeros. Unlike his peers, however, he until April 15—ironically, the scheduled date of determined Library of Congress folk song re- does understand how it all works. the show’s closing—to make up your mind. Pearl Sings! Playwright: Frank Higgins searcher from New York reaching out to the At TimeLine Theatre, it works like a casino— At: Northlight Theatre, 9501 Texas prisoner Alberta (nicknamed Pearl and Skokie Blvd., Skokie richly played by Butler) because the music she Phone: 847-673-6300; $25-$60 sings appears to stretch back to slavery times. Web: http://www.northlight.org It’s an uneasy partnership, and especially un- Runs through: Feb. 19 settling when Butler first appears in prison shackles. BY SCOTT C. MORGAN As the drama unfolds, you can see where Higgins sometimes checks off the issues he SPOTLIGHT From one perspective, you can view Frank needs to deal with, ranging from the ap- Higgins’ two-hander drama Black Pearl Sings! propriation and packaging of Black culture as yet another work that trades in the “White for white audiences to the notion of Alberta Savior” racist ideal where a white character is becoming a prisoner again even after she is necessary to aid or empower a minority char- freed. acter or group. How Higgins works these issues into the Or you can regard Black Pearl Sings! as a play can sometimes feel clunky and obvious, drama where two people from different back- but you’re apt to overlook them since direc- grounds ultimately learn to help and respect tor Steve Scott and his strong cast makes the each other (albeit after some conflict and drama flow organically. The amazing musical misunderstandings) to overcome some of the talents of the leading ladies is something many limitations placed upon both of them. great to behold, so you feel culturally en- Black Pearl Sings! makes a stronger case for riched just by taking part (yes, you are asked the latter view in Northlight Theatre’s Chica- to sing along later in the show). go-area premiere. It also helps to have two Now it would be easy for cynics to write off amazingly musical leading ladies like E. Faye Black Pearl Sings! as a politically correct tract Butler and Susie McMonagle to illuminate conveniently programmed to partially overlap Higgins’ fictional Depression-era drama. with Black History Month. But to do so would Last seen in Chicago at the Broadway Armory in 2011 with its award-winning drama Black Watch, The premise is based upon the real-life deny the rich cultural exchange of folk art- The National Theatre of Scotland continues its practice of presenting theater in unconventional 1930s ethnomusicologist John Avery Lomax, ists who might have been forgotten if racial spaces when its production of Duncan McLean’s Long Gone Lonesome featuring the Lone Star who helped get incarcerated blues guitarist and cultural barriers weren’t crossed by musi- Swing Band plays The Hideout for a brief run. Long Gone Lonesome is a musical celebration of Huddie “Leadbelly” Ledbetter paroled so that cal historians back in the 1930s. Black Pearl Thomas Fraser, a Scottish fisherman who left behind a treasure trove of private country and blues his personal trove of folk songs could be pre- Sings! is a nice reminder of this fact, and it recordings. Long Gone Lonesome plays at 7:30 p.m. Feb. 2 and 3, then at 5 and 9 p.m. Feb. 4 at served and performed. Higgins has kept this ultimately works at combining its entertain- The Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia Ave. Tickets are $25-$35; call 312-595-5600 or visit http://www. historical premise for his play, but switched ment and educational goals into a fine and ChicagoShakes.com. Photo of McLean in Long Gone Lonesome by Rebecca Marr the genders around so that sexism can also thoughtful drama. explored in his play’s mix of geographic, eco- WINDY CITY TIMES Feb. 1, 2012 19 DOUBLE REVIEW Shakespeare’s message of mercy and forgiveness remains but it seems like a moral add-on rather ‘Laramie Project’ The Feast: an than emerging organically from story and char- acter. opens at Redtwist intimate Tempest Nonetheless, The Feast: An Intimate Tempest Playwright: Jessica Thebus offers an intriguing reality check. The technique March 4 adapted from Shakespeare of masks and puppets makes one wonder if they The Chicago premiere production of The At: Chicago Shakespeare Theater, Navy Pier are to be taken as real or as creations of Pros- Laramie Project: Ten Years Later—directed Tickets: 312-595-5600; pero’s mind? Is he mad? Is anyone there besides by Jeff Award winner Greg Kolack—will open http://www.chicagoshakes.com/feast; Ariel and Caliban? And when he frees Ariel at at Redtwist Theatre, 1044 W. Bryn Mawr Ave., $35-$45 the end, he equally frees Caliban (which is not will run March 4-April 7, at 3 p.m. Runs through: March 11 the case in Shakespeare’s original) as if they are Tickets are $25-$30. (a) brothers or (b) two aspects of one creature. There will also be staged readings of the The Hunchback These ideas might offer a new interpretation of original project, The Laramie Project, begin- The Tempest if they were more fully explored ning Friday, Feb. 17, at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are Variations Opera rather than merely suggested. $15. Playwright: Mickle Maher and Mark Messing It’s a handsome production—Chicago Shake- In addition, there will be a benefit per- At: Theatre Oobleck at formance of The Laramie Project: Ten Years Victory Gardens Theater Later on Saturday, March 10, at 6:30 p.m. Tickets: 773-71-3000; Judy Shepard, the mother of the late Matthew Julianna Margulies. http://www.victorygardens.org; Shepard—on whom the original project is $20 (suggested; free if you’re broke) based—will introduce the performance. Tick- Runs through: Feb. 19 ets are $100 each. See http://www.redtwist.org or call 773- opportunities, contact Steppenwolf’s Special BY JONATHAN ABARBANEL 728-7529. Events Department at 312-654-5632 or spe-

[email protected], or visit http:// Two consistently rad theater troupes have www.steppenwolf.org/luncheon. mounted brief, small-cast shows inspired by Steppenwolf the classics in vastly different ways. Redmoon to honor Theatre, partnering with Chicago Shakespeare Paradise’s ‘Bell Theater at Navy Pier, deconstructs Shakespeare’s Julianna Margulies final play, The Tempest. Theatre Oobleck has Emmy, Golden Globe and Screen Actors Book and Candle’ taken ensemble member Mickle Maher’s thought- Guild Award® winner Julianna Margulies— ful comedy, The Hunchback Variations, and re- known for her roles on the TV shows ER and Feb. 10-26 Paradise Playhouse will run Bell Book and fashioned it as two-person chamber opera. The The Good Wife—will be the guest of honor at Candle—which originally inspired the ‘60s pieces have nothing in common other than un- the third annual Steppenwolf Salutes “Women TV comedy Bewitched—Feb. 10-26 at Open usual approaches to subject matter and the vast in the Arts” fundraising luncheon Monday, Door Theatre’s brand-new residence at 902 S. artistic experience of the artists involved. March 12, at 12 p.m. at The Chicago Cultural Ridgeland, Oak Park. Redmoon reduces the living actors to Prospero, Center, 77 E. Randolph St. Performances are Fridays and Saturdays at 8 the sorcerer/duke shanghaied on a tropical is- Previous honorees include ensemble mem- p.m., and Sundays at 3 p.m. Single tickets are land, and the two island creatures who are his bers Joan Allen and Martha Plimpton. $22 for adults and $17 for students and se- servants, Ariel and Caliban. All others—among Table sponsorships are available. Individu- niors. For tickets, call 708-829-5050 or visit them his daughter and her love interest, Pros- al tickets, starting at $200, are on sale. To http://www.paradiseplayhouse.net. pero’s usurping brother and a drunken butler— purchase tickets or learn about sponsorship are puppets, masks or shadow projections, which The Feast... Photo by Michael Brosilow are familiar Redmoon techniques. The 75-min- ute performance reduces the story to expository minimums with many details narrated rather than fully acted out. A chief question must speare Theater’s hallmark—and delicately craft- be whether those unfamiliar with The Tempest ed, a Redmoon hallmark. Spectacle and sound fully will understand the tale and its lessons. weave a spell and the three actors (plus one un- seen puppeteer) successfully balance vocal and physical strength against nuance. CRITICS’ PICKS The clever premise of The Hunchback Varia- tions is to have two men who are stone-cold deaf expound on the nature of sound, “impos- sible, mysterious sound ... and its effects on Blizzard ‘67, Chicago Dramatists, through life and friendship,” as one says. In so doing, Feb. 12. A battered Ford in a snowstorm is they examine the nature of creative inquiry and like a bunker under enemy fire to the four myriad metaphysical issues. But author Maher car-pooling suburbanites, each facing his doesn’t stop there: his two deaf experts are real own personal crisis, in Jon Steinhagen’s composer/pianist Beethoven, and fictional me- microcosmic portrait of the worst meteoro- dieval bell ringer, Quasimodo. Presented as mod- logical disaster in Chicago memory. MSB ern figures, they offer their sound opinions in Don’t Act Like a Girl, Annoyance Theatre, public discussions seated before microphones. through Feb. 12. Wes Perry’s one-man and a Maher adds further complexity by jumping off band memoir of growing up gay and heavily from a puzzling sound effect in Anton Chekhov’s medicated on prescription is an eminently The Cherry Orchard. enjoyable journey of great comic timing Nearly a decade old, Maher’s play has been and reflection. SCM set to music by Mark Messing with tenor George Love and Money, Steep Theatre, through written by Andrew Wolff (Beethoven) and baritone Larry 25. Dennis Kelly’s fragmentary and back- Adams accompanied by cellist Paul Ghico and WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE wards-moving British drama about a couple pianist Tim Lenihan. Messing respect for Maher’s directed by torn asunder by excessive debt is an un- words (the play, intact), diction and humor is GARY GRIFFIN settling and timely work examining the absolute. He subtly lets the personalities emerge dangers and perniciousness of easy credit. of the charmingly devious Beethoven and the Steep Theatre delivers a fine Midwest pre- BEGINS grumpy but heartfelt Quasimodo. The music of- miere. SCM ten is free in form and rhythm, although I no- FEBRUARY 7 Penelope, Steppenwolf, through Feb. 5. ticed several fine ¾-times variations and numer- The view of four decidedly middle-aged ous jazz hints. The cello part seems especially straight men in Speedos is scary, but Enda challenging, with much of it plucked rather than Walsh packs poetry as well as testosterone bowed. Only in the closing moments does Mess- into this dark comedy of four suitors woo- ing eschew dry tonalities to briefly embrace a ing Penelope as she awaits Ulysses on a recognizably diatonic, anthem-like melody, sun-washed, modern Greek isle. JA thereby rounding out with a sentiment this suc- cessful marriage of words and music. —By Abarbanel, Barnidge More than anything, perhaps, Maher’s work ex- and Morgan plores enigma. In a way, so does the Redmoon/ Chicago Shakes version of The Tempest, perhaps INDIVIDUAL MAJOR PRODUCTION Raymond and 2011/12 SEASON challenging our perception of reality. SPONSORS SUPPORTERS Judy McCaskey Official Marketing Season Sponsor Lighting Design Upstairs Theater Subscription Series Season Sponsor Shakespeare Trust Airline Partner Sponsor Sponsor Partner 20 Feb. 1, 2012 WINDY CITY TIMES She’s also really excited—too excited—when fashioned haunted house film (albeit one with a Carpenter’s The Thing, in which a really nasty, she catches a glimpse of Leanne Rease-Jones much, much bigger budget than West had). The shape-shifting alien wreaks murderous (and very (played with world-weary finesse by out actor trailer for the film, based on a British novel and bloody) havoc on the inhabitants of a scientific KNIGHT Kelly McGillis), who has checked into the inn. previous 1993 TV adaptation (one of the scari- expedition to the Antarctic. Not scary but com- Claire recognizes Leanne, a once-promising ac- est movies ever), has loads of atmosphere but pelling and entertaining is a fourth DVD release AT tress, and proceeds to drive her batty. Leanne is unfortunately wasn’t screened in time for Windy this week—the sci-fi futuristic thriller In Time THE no longer acting and is in town for a New Age City Times’ deadline. with gay audience faves Justin Timberlake and convention, as she now has a career as a spiritu- Amanda Seyfried. Like previous Andrew Niccol MOVIES alist. More scary stuff: A trio of movies out on DVD films (especially Gattaca), it’s as sleek and sexy The tough-talking Leanne, who smokes like this week will keep the creep factor in high gear. as its two leads. a chimney and pounds down the vodka, seems They are Paranormal Activity 3, the latest suc- Check out my archived reviews at http:// to know there’s something amiss at the Yankee cess in the “found footage” horror genre; the www.windycitymediagroup.com or http:// Peddler, as do Claire and Luke. All three surmise Daniel Craig-Rachel Weitz big-time flopDream www.knightatthemovies.com. Readers can By it has something to do with the original owner House (though, as usual, I liked parts of it more leave feedback at the latter website. Richard of the place, a jilted bride and a long-lost lover. than my colleagues); and the prequel to John Knight, Jr. When a mysterious elderly guest checks in, the slow-moving story—built on character and sub- White, 90, won for best actress in a comedy tlety up to that point—suddenly bolts toward Nine movies get series for her role in Hot in Cleveland, while its conclusion. Alec Baldwin (30 Rock) won for best comedy The Innkeepers Although West’s film has the occasional sus- top Oscar nods Nine movies received Best Picture nomina- actor—for the sixth consecutive year. Board- penseful surprise, the rewards here are in the Writer-director Ti West is part of a new genera- tions for the 84th Annual Academy Awards. walk Empire’s Steve Buscemi won for best ac- long takes as we follow Claire down darkened tion of filmmakers working in the horror field The films are the silent film The Artist; tor in a drama while Jessica Lange won for hallways and the general feeling of unease that who have eschewed the gross-out shock of The Descendants; the 9/11 movie Extremely American Horror Story. permeates the film. West takes the time to really splatter porn and the ramped-up effects and Loud & Incredibly Close; The Help; Hugo; the let you get a sense of the place, and one can thrill that have become hallmarks of the genre. Woody Allen film Midnight in Paris; the base- almost hear the radiators hissing. Instead, these filmmakers have embraced atmo- ball-based Moneyball; The Tree of Life; and Center’s Oscar He is helped by basically his three-person sphere, character and stories marked by the slow War Horse. cast, which adds nuance to the roles. Healy is party at Park build of more traditional fare. In LGBT-related news, Christopher Plummer especially effective as the droll Luke, and McGil- Both West’s 2009 breakthrough movie, The followed his Golden Globe win with an Oscar West Feb. 26 lis hasn’t had a part this good in years. (It’s House of the Devil and his latest, The Inn- nod for Best Actor in a Supporting Role for Center on Halsted’s 2012 “On the Red Car- lovely to see her back in front of the camera— keepers (opening Feb. 3 at the Music Box and portraying a 75-year-old gay widower in Be- pet” Oscar party will move venues, taking with a measure of her trademark vulnerability currently available on pay-per-view), follow in ginners. Glenn Close and Janet McTeer were place at the Park West, 322 W. Armitage Ave., intact.) Paxton, as Claire, certainly embodies her these traditional paths. Although I don’t think nominated, respectively, for lead and sup- on Sunday, Feb. 26, at 6 p.m. role and it’s probably not her fault that at a cer- porting actress for their gender-bending roles There will be a silent auction and raffle in the film Albert Nobbs. Also, Rooney Mara prizes; cocktails and buffet dinner; a predict- received a nod for playing the bisexual titular the-winner contest; champagne service; and, character in The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo. of course, the live Academy Awards telecast. Other lead actress nods went to Viola Davis Tickets are $30-$125 each. See http:// for The Help; Meryl Streep in The Iron Lady; www.centeronhalsted.org/oscars.html. and Michelle Williams in My Week with Mari- lyn. Lead actor nominations went to Demian Bichir for A Better Life; George Clooney in The Descen- dants; Jean Dujardin in The Artist; Gary Oldman for Tinker Tailor Sol- dier Spy; and Brad Pitt for Money- ball. Incidentally, there will be no Ma- donna vs. Elton feud, part two—at least, at the Oscars. There were only two nominations for Best Song: “Man or Muppet” from The Muppets, and “Real in Rio” from Rio. Hugo leads all films with 11 nominations. The ceremony will take place Sunday, Feb. 26, on ABC at 7 p.m. CT. Billy Crystal takes over as host Kelly McGillis in The Innkeepers. Photo courtesy of Magnet Releasing after Eddie Murphy withdrew. ‘The Help’

tain point the audience, along with Leanne, is dominates either of them is something I’ll return to with just about ready to murder her to get some relief nearly as much of the anticipatory thrill I get SAGs from her continual freak-outs. She’s not quite as each time I prepare to watch The Haunting, The Southern drama The Help annoying as Heather Donohue in The Blair Witch The Innocents or even the more recent Spanish won three awards Jan. 29 at the Project but, boy, she’s damn close. shocker The Orphanage, time is on West’s side Screen Actors Guild Awards. The Innkeepers is diverting and certainly and—if these two are any indication—he’s off The movie won for best ensem- worthy of examination; given all these pluses, to a great start. ble, best actress for Viola Davis I’d like to have seen more of West’s compelling The Innkeepers takes place during the final and best supporting actress for Oc- backstory threaded into his narrative. Perhaps days of the Yankee Peddler Inn in Connecticut. tavia Spencer. Spencer is the Oscar a few more character twists and turns could The ramshackle hotel—housed in an elegant, front-runner in her category, while strengthen his moody atmosphere. I await his shabby Victorian mansion that has obviously Davis is neck-and-neck with Meryl next effort. seen better days—is staffed by two twenty- Streep, who won the Golden Globe West will be a guest at the historic, 100-year- somethings: the laid-back, bookish Luke (Pat for her role in The Iron Lady. old Music Box Theatre, 3733 N. Southport Ave.— Healy) and his easily excitable and rather en- The Artist’s Jean Dujardin won a perfect setting for a ghost story—Friday, Feb. ergetic counterpart, Claire (Sara Paxton). The for best actor and Christopher 3, at 7:20 p.m. He will introduce a double fea- two have heard about the haunted past of the Plummer won for best supporting ture of The Innkeepers and The House of the inn and in between bringing their few remaining actor for his role as a gay 75-year- Devil, and chat with the A.V. Club’s film critic, guests towels and such, have become amateur old widower in Beginners. Scott Tobias. www.musicboxtheatre.com On the television side, Modern ghost hunters. The 2011 Center on Halsted Oscars party. Photo by Kat Claire seems particularly enthralled by the Family won for best comedy en- Daniel Radcliffe takes on Fitzgerald ghostly possibilities just waiting to be unearthed Of related interest: semble and Boardwalk Empire took his first post-Harry Potter movie role in and roams about the hotel brandishing the elec- The the drama-ensemble award. Betty , which looks to be another old- tronic equipment, hoping to capture something. Woman in Black WINDY CITY TIMES Feb. 1, 2012 21 MOVIES of material do you workout? ed to be this D-List celebrity so she could talk JS: Yes. I’m still doing stand-up. I talk a lot to her audience. It worked for her. In terms of about getting older, my insane family and poli- openly gay comics today, I think Scott Silverman tics—right now, the Republican candidates. If is terrific! I also love New York’s Brad Loekoe. I Jason Stuart on Mitt Romney wins the general election, are there think I have a little crush on him. enough bedrooms in the White House for all of WCT: How do you feel about Chicago? What the sister wives? Honestly—how big is that Lin- do you want to your fans here? coln Bedroom, anyway? JS: I LOVE the men there. I always have a gay actors, WCT: In a 2008 WCT interview you men- great time when I’m in town. So if there are any tioned that gay men were not at the “point guys there who can relocate to L.A. and want to where they could promote themselves [in fall in love and are sexy and smart—send them stand-up].” Do you still feel that way? my way. stand-up act JS: It’s really up to the media, you guys. Gays For more information on Jason Stuart, in- by Joe Franco ago and I’m really proud of it. No, we’re now in make their own stars. Coverage like this is some- cluding his biography, filmography and up- the process of doing a survey of out actors to thing I really appreciate. It’s all in the way you coming tour dates, visit http://www.jason- Jason Stuart’s own web bio begins: “When you help them land better roles. The gay actors are spin things. Look at Kathy Griffin. She pretend- stuart.com. think one of the most prolific character actors, fine with the process. It really should be about who’s also an outrageous openly gay stand-up the best actor getting the role. We’re trying to comedian, one name comes to mind … Jason do just that. Alvin Ailey in Quay red-carpet Stuart. Stuart has been making people laugh out As far as closeted gay actors, we don’t have loud with his hysterical performances all over any in the SAG LGBT Committee. Why would Chicago April 11-15 party to benefit JDRF the country since coming out in 1993.” there be? Those closeted gay actors seem okay Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater will Quay Restaurant & Bar, 465 E. Illinois St., Stuart has been entertaining audiences across with staying in there, but after a while, those perform at the Auditorium Theatre of Roos- and the JDRF Illinois Young Leadership Com- the country with his stand-up as well as appear- hatboxes and shit starts getting in the way. Ev- evelt University April 11-15. mittee will host a red-carpet party Sunday, ery now and then, someone flashes The eclectic program features brand-new Feb. 26, at 6 p.m. a light in there. Not to change the pieces added to the Ailey repertoire, includ- JDRF is focused on type 1 diabetes re- subject, but do you know who just ing hip-hop choreographer Rennie Harris’ search. beeped in and I actually ignored her “Home,” set to a score of gospel-house music Rent the Runway will provide exclusive de- call so I could keep talking to you? and inspired by people living with or affected signer dresses being modeled throughout the WCT: No. Who? by HIV; Artistic Director Robert Battle’s solo evening. The event will feature multiple tele- JS: 1987 Academy Award Nominee work “Takademe;” “Arden Court,” the first visions on site, and partygoers will be able to Sally Kirkland! Before I called you, I Paul Taylor work ever danced by the company; bid on upscale items in a silent auction. was on the phone with Judy Tenuta. Ohad Naharin’s improvised “Minus 16;” and Tickets are $55-$70; see http://www. See. So I’m a name-dropper. classics from Ailey’s body of work. JDRFIllinois.org. WCT: “Don’t keep people in box- Tickets are $30-$90; call 800-982-2787, es—let them soar” is a quote from stop by the box office (50 E. Congress Pkwy.) your December 2011 Huffington or visit http://www.ticketmaster.com/audito- Post column concerning the mis- rium. sion of SAG’s LGBT Committee. How do you accomplish that? JS: We have film festivals. We pro- mote different films. We’re offering a CULTURE CLUB casting seminar this August for open- ly gay actors. Our group is seeking to get the best possible healthcare for VALENTINE’S WEEKEND our members that have partners and FEBRUARY 10–12 not spouses. We’ve helped change the TICKETS START AT $30 language in contracts to be more gay- LOVE friendly. Most remarkable of all is that it’s mostly volunteers who do all of is... this work. JOIN RIVER NORTH DANCE CHICAGO WCT: What are your thoughts on ON VALENTINE’S WEEKEND FOR the way movies and television por- TWO WORLD PREMIERES: CONTACT-ME tray gay individuals or the way gay AND THE GOOD GOODBYES. actors portray straight individuals? AND THE LOVE IS... CELEBRATION ON SATURDAY NIGHT 2.11. Party tickets: $25 JS: Well, it’s really all about the ac- For more info go to www.rivernorthchicago.com tor and the ability for the actor to Jason Stuart. Photo by Shannon Youngclaus play a role. I mean really, who is the last gay character, other than the HarrisTheaterChicago.org 312.334.7777 Modern Family gays? Maybe the Glee ances in numerous films and television shows kids? Lately, there hasn’t been as much visibil- including, most recently, The Closer with Kyra ity. There’s Jane Lynch, but she’s supposedly Artistic Director Sedgwick, Will & Grace and the 2002 film Ten At- playing a heterosexual gym teacher. When’s the Frank Chaves— titudes, which featured Stuart as the main pro- last time you’ve even met a heterosexual gym tagonist. Nowadays, Stuart is still busy acting teacher? Ryan Murphy is a crazy one! and doing stand-up and as always, advocating WCT: So you have a new film coming out, for the visibility of out gay actors. K-11. It’s a debut film from Jules Mann-Stew- Windy City Times: An April 2010 Newsweek art. How did you land that role? article claimed “Gay actors cannot play it JS: When I got the script, I thought the role straight.” Any thoughts? was a big, old mean gay guy. But it turned out Jason Stuart: Well, when I heard that I to be a big, old mean straight guy. The film takes thought of a couple things. First, when people place in California prison. It’s set in a fictitious go to see a play, watch TV or go to a movie, they holding area for gay men. Everything was kept really just want to see something good. I don’t quiet about the film. The director even chastised think people care as much as others think about me for putting pictures of me and the title char- the sexuality of an actor. Secondly, I think the acter on my Facebook page. media cares more than people care about an ac- I was told though that K-11 is premiering at tor’s private life. It’s about the media trying to the Berlin Film Festival in February, so that’s al- sell papers. There’s also this issue with who gets most a sure thing. to be a “leading man” in Hollywood. It’s called WCT: Now, you’re also doing another proj- the Tom Cruise Street. You have to give up an ect called The Guest House. Where is that in awful lot to get on that street and stay there. terms of production? WCT: You created and founded the Screen JS: Oh, well we’re just starting production in Actors’ Guild [SAG] LGBT Committee as a a week or so. I was told that the role was MADE “support system” for your fellow gay actors. for me. I get to play another straight guy. I’m a Is there room for gay actors who are not yet total asshole. I’m not sure how that makes me out in the committee? feel, though. JS: I started the committee nearly 10 years WCT: You’re still doing stand-up. What kind 22 Feb. 1, 2012 WINDY CITY TIMES Out director Phyllida Lloyd elaborated: “We thought of the film as something of a King Lear Meryl Streep and for girls, a Shakespearean story—not a political story. So, in that sense, we spoke to a number of Margaret Thatcher’s closest associates, who de- Phyllida Lloyd: scribed her story in Shakespearean and operatic terms. I’d worked in opera a lot and to me, this did have some of the elements of a tragic opera. The movie is a combination of the political world The ‘Iron Ladies’ and pure imagination. It’s two very distinctive worlds.” Out filmmaker those chameleon skills within just one movie, as This isn’t the first time Streep and Lloyd have she did with 2003’s Angels in America.) [Editor’s bridged two worlds. The 2008 movie Mamma directs Meryl Streep, note: Last week, she notched her 17th Academy Mia! united the actress’ singing and dancing, who talks gay icon status—of Award nomination for The Iron Lady.] with Lloyd directing. She’s such a persona-transcendent pro that “I think it’s always easier the second time both herself and working together,” the filmmaker admitted. “In Margaret Thatcher when she’s sitting right in front of you, you’re asking yourself: Is that really Meryl Streep? At fact, you should start with the second time.” By Chris Azzopardi this point, even Meryl Streep doesn’t look like Looking at her, pretending to be offended, Meryl Streep. Heck, after being so outside her- Streep laughed: “What do you mean?” Nothing could stand in the way of the almighty self, does Meryl Streep even know Meryl Streep? “I loved working with her… the first time,” Meryl Streep—except on this particular after- She’s the rare actress who never plays herself the actress razzed. “We had shorthand [on Iron noon. At a New York City hotel, in front of a in a movie. Iron Lady, then, is a made-for-Meryl Lady], and we had to—because we had $14 mil- room full of journalists from mainstream press, movie, from the prosthetics that afford an un- lion to shoot a movie that takes place over the she braced herself for what could be the ulti- canny transformation into Britain’s first female course of six decades. And that’s basically no mate career challenge. The mission? Answer a prime minister to the heart that she finds among money. That’s less than a 10th of what Hugo “gay” question. all that, well, iron. Meryl Streep as Margaret Thatcher in The Iron cost.” With mock surprise, Streep dramatically threw “The biggest challenge for me was accomplish- Lady. Photo courtesy of The Weinstein Co. She handed it to Lloyd for strongly convey- her arms up and whipped back in her chair, ing the long lines of thought that she would ing her vision prior to shooting, which allowed pretending it’s something she—Oscar winner, launch into without taking a breath,” Streep re- Streep a sense of security in knowing just how recent Kennedy Center honoree and the “devil” out her memories and she tries to capture which- called. “Even with all the drama school that I’ve to find Thatcher’s mind, body and spirit. herself—wasn’t sure she could pull off. ever ones she has left. For as political-minded as had, I had a lot of trouble managing that. Just “I’m playing a Margaret Thatcher no one has “OK,” she said, sarcastically, “Let me get she was, the film isn’t very political at all—and the galvanizing energy and the drive and the ca- seen or really knows, and we can’t know—it’s ready. All right, go.” it wasn’t meant to be. pacity to follow through with a conviction all an imagined journey that we were taking—so I And so we do, citing mentions of the fierce “All of us understood what we were wanting the way through to the end of your breath until felt a lot of freedom. I did,” Streep said. “I felt Margaret Thatcher, whom Streep doesn’t just from this piece,” Streep said. “It was not going you can’t go any further,” she says, breathlessly completely free, and that’s a testament to the play but becomes, in The Iron Lady, a gay icon. to be chronicling Margaret Thatcher’s political in character, “and not to let anybody interrupt! director.” So, is she? life; it would be a particular look back through “It was masterful the way she could manage But it wasn’t all Lloyd. Although she’s never Streep deliberated, working out the answer in her own eyes at selected memories—not in these interviews.” She let out a hearty laugh. met Margaret Thatcher, Streep wore the prime her head before she let go of it: “You know, I … chronological order, but in a jumble of memory, “I’m taking notes on that.” minister’s many hats, learning that the woman I don’t know. I just recently found out that I am regret, glory days. It would all be a part of a Thatcher was a strident figure of polarizing ef- wasn’t a slacker and that her father saw Thatcher a gay icon. It’s flattering, of course,” she said, reckoning.” fect, a loved-and-hated political icon admired as the man of the house. “He discovered, of his noting the all-male tribute Streep Tease in West The film is facing intense scrutiny for breezing not necessarily for her ideas but for the way she two daughters, one was uncommonly bright and Hollywood (of which she said, “I haven’t gotten past the political turmoil that Thatcher stirred was able to execute them—in the face of class uncommonly curious, and maybe this could be the nerve to go”). “But I think [Margaret] stirs and, instead, focusing on her personal life. “We and gender prejudice. his boy,” she said. “That’s what I think. She ful- very strong feelings even today, 20 years after have come under criticism for portraying some- “The array of obstacles that stood before her fills a promise, and he infused in her the courage leaving power. And she remains divisive. The one who is frail and in delicate health,” Streep in England at that time were enormous,” Streep to get up and out. She had a lot of promise, and film will enter a landscape of a world where she admitted. noted, “and I think she did a service for our she wanted to live up to it.” continues to cause controversy. I can’t answer “Some people have said it’s shameful to por- team (women) by getting there—even though When did Streep realize the same for herself? the question about whether she’s a gay icon. tray this part of a life, but if you think that you might not agree with the politics. Her de- “I never really decided. I’m still ambivalent.” That’s a difficult one for me.” debility, delicacy and dementia are shameful, if termination, her stamina, her courage to take it She laughed at the notion. “But no, being an Look at that: something Meryl Streep can’t do. you think that the ebbing end of life is some- on. Anybody that stands up and is willing to be actor lets me be a million different things, so I The recent Golden Globe winner for Best Actress thing that should be shut away—if you think a leader, who is as prepared as she was and as don’t have to decide.” in a Drama, for Iron Lady, is supposed to be the that people need to be defended from that, from smart as she was, is admirable on a certain level, Chris Azzopardi is the editor of Q Syndicate, Queen of Can, the thespian superwoman who those images—then yes, it is a shameful thing. because you really sacrifice a great deal. All of the international LGBT wire service. Reach can effortlessly slip into character: head-turner But I don’t think that. We are naturally interest- our public figures do.” him via his website at http://www.chris-az- in Death Becomes Her, doubtful nun, Julia Child. ed in our leaders, and we tell stories about our- The film spans three days in Thatcher’s post zopardi.com. (She’s so remarkable, in fact, that she can work selves through the stories of important people.” prime, well into her 80s, after dementia wipes

Meryl Streep (left) and Phyllida Lloyd on the set of The Iron Lady. Photo by Alex Bailey WINDY CITY TIMES Feb. 1, 2012 23 reap! your life. What can you tell us about this last GC: [Laughs] Ah, Justin Bieber. [Laughs] He’d season of Damages? Glenn Close: probably be very good at that. I don’t know if it GC: Oh, it’s a good, juicy season. Patty goes would be convincing in a period movie in Victo- after a WikiLeaks guy, like Julian Assange, she’s rian Dublin, but you never know! prosecuting him and Helen is defending him so ‘Albert Nobbs,’ gender- WCT: While researching the time period it’s pretty good. in which Nobbs takes place, did you learn WCT: Does the season come to a conclusive, whether living as a male was typical for les- all-tied-up end, or does it leave things open bending and ‘Damages’ bians to do back then? so there could be a Damages movie later down GC: My research mainly turned up women who the line, a la 24? did this either to fight in wars, have a job, or go GC: I don’t know necessarily how our writers By Lawrence Ferber That’s where the nominations are very helpful. on adventure. And then there are cases of people are going to end the season. We’ve had some WCT: Were you a fan of movies about gen- who married women, and the women found out general conversations about it, but knowing Twenty-four hours before the Golden Globes der-bending characters, like Yentl and Victor later [their husbands] were women and not men. them I doubt it would all be in a tight and nice ceremony, for which she’s been nominated as Victoria, before Nobbs? So I don’t know. It was a mixture, and whether package with a bow. Best Actress in a Motion Picture Drama, Glenn GC: Yeah. I remember seeing Yentl on stage they were lesbians are not, homosexuality was WCT: If you were in a legal pickle, would Close is doing some last-minute press from her with Tovah Feldshuh [during the 1970s]. It blew against the law. I’m not sure whether lesbianism you want Patty to represent you? Los Angeles Four Seasons hotel room. While she me away. But those were different from Nobbs. was also against the law, but it was certainly GC: Absolutely. [Laughs] Yeah. We couldn’t af- ultimately didn’t take home a statuette the next What was really important to us was to make the considered aberrant and something to hide. ford her, but I’d like her to represent me, yes. night, Close’s performance is a bona fide win- characters in the movie not seem oblivious for WCT: You famously played lesbian military WCT: Earlier this month you issued a state- ner (as evidenced by her recent Oscar nomina- thinking this character is a man. vet Margarethe Cammermeyer in the 1995 TV ment condemning a ridiculous, homophobic tion)—and represents “closure and joy” for a I wasn’t convinced that Julie Andrews was a movie, Serving in Silence. When “Don’t Ask video made by former Naval Captain Owen passion project 30 years in the making. man, and I don’t think necessarily that Barbra Don’t Tell” was repealed, was it a big moment Honors in which you appeared for a moment. Playing a woman who camouflages herself as Streisand was the most convincing of men. It for you? And did you two talk about it? Your statement read: “I am distraught that a man to work as a hotel butler and survive in was very important for us to be very authentic GC: Yes, it was. Definitely. I was in touch with my image has been used to perpetuate some- 19th-century Ireland, Close—who also produced and find ways of subtly changing Janet’s and my Grethe when that all happened and I would’ve thing that I abhor. The cynical, unauthorized loved to have gone to D.C. for that, but I just use of my image in this video is deeply of- wasn’t able to. fensive and insulting, and was the result of We talked about how proud we were that, back a seemingly innocent request of me during then, we did Serving in Silence and to think of a visit to the aircraft carrier over four years the time that’s gone by since and the lives [mili- ago.” tary policy and DADT] affected in an unfortunate GC: Oh my God. That was awful. I had to re- way. But thank god DADT doesn’t exist anymore. spond. Yeah. Oh. I had to. Not that everything’s going to change, but at WCT: Back to awards talk, you lost Oscars in least it has on the books. the past to two other gay favorites, Cher and I think, ultimately, [gender and sexuality] Jodie Foster. Are you hatin’ on them? shouldn’t matter. I’ve said this about our film. “Funny—I didn’t think of that. I don’t hate In some ways, gender should be irrelevant. It them at all. Are you kidding me?” shouldn’t matter who someone is connected to WCT: It would be great to see you three to- and finds love and a life with. I hope [full fed- gether in a project. eral equality] will come to be a reality for the GC: Oh, that would be wild. That would be LGBT world.” good. WCT: You’ve called Patty Hewes the role of Albert Nobbs is currently in movie theaters. ‘Over the Rainbow’ Velez is Mr. Chicago recommends 74 Leather 2012 Angel Velez has been named Mr. Chicago Glenn Close (right) and Aaron Johnson in Albert Nobbs. Photo by Patrick Redmond LGBT books Leather 2012. The leather bar Touche hosted for adults the event Jan. 27-29. Velez edged the runner-up, with their final and co-wrote the film (and its Globes-nominat- faces so that would be believable to the people The American Library Association’s Over scores separated by 1 percent. ed, Sinead O’Connor-performed original song, within the story. the Rainbow Project jury identified 263 titles The winner is a retired Army sergeant and “Lay Your Head Down”)—turns in a vulnerable, WCT: When you and Janet were in your male to be considered for the group’s annual list is pursuing his doctorate in business adminis- kindly, enigmatic, and multilayered performance drag did you have some fun with it? of recommended books. Eligible, books were tration. As the new Mr. Chicago Leather 2012, (quite literally so, with subtle facial prosthetics GC: Yeah. Janet accosted Brendan Gleeson, published between July 1, 2010 and Dec. 31, Velez will be outfitted in a leather vest with to butch up her features). Nobbs also co-stars whom she’d played opposite as Lady Churchill 2011. Jurors compiled a list of 140 books his title on the back and a $500 gift certifi- Janet McTeer as Hubert, a swaggering lesbian in the HBO series Into The Storm, and he didn’t with at least one juror nomination. Of those cate from Shel-Don Chicago Leather, which who also poses as a man, while Mia Wasakows- have any idea who she was. [Laughs] I tell you, books, 103 were from small, independent co-sponsors Mr Chicago Leather with Touché. ka portrays a beguiling maid, Helen, to whom it would have been fun to get all duded-up and publishers, self-published or from University As Mr. Chicago Leather 2012, Velez will Nobbs takes a romantic shine. walk through Dublin. But I just didn’t have time Presses. Seven of the nominated titles were compete at International Mr. Leather May 25- Interestingly, Albert represents a polar oppo- to. I liked being Albert. I liked surprising myself published in Canada, and two were British 28 in Chicago. site of the role that has come to define Close in every time I passed a mirror, and to be on the publications. recent years—iron-fisted, manipulative lawyer set looking like a guy is different from just act- The committee’s mission is to create a bib- Patty Hewes on the FX/DirectTV series Damages, ing. liography of books that exhibit commendable which wraps its fifth and final season this year. WCT: The scene in which Janet’s character, literary quality and significant authentic LGBT Via telephone, Close discussed gender-bend- Hubert—whom Albert initially thinks is a bi- content and are recommended for adults over ing, wrapping up Damages and a whole bunch of ological man—catches her and realizes she’s age 18. It is not meant to be all inclusive, queer stuff. a woman is so painful. Albert looks so scared. but is intended as an annual core list for Windy City Times: You first played Albert Was that a tough scene for you to act? readers and librarians searching for recom- Nobbs in a 1982 off-Broadway production of GC: No. I just had to think of how dire it would mendations of a cross-section of the year’s the play and have toiled for years to bring a be for Albert if she was discovered and thrown titles. Although the committee attempts to film version to screen. Do awards matter to out. She thinks her life is over and wouldn’t present titles for a variety of reading tastes you, both for this performance specifically have a job. I think one of the hardest scenes for and levels, no effort will be made to balance and in general? me was when I asked Helen out for a walk for the this bibliography according to subject, area Glenn Close: In what way? It sounds kind of first time, because I didn’t know what to do with of interest, age or genre. disingenuous when I talk like this, but I honest- my face. Windy City Times Publisher Tracy Baim has ly think that you’re almost a winner when you’re Albert is starting to look up more than she two titles on the list: Obama and the Gays: A nominated, and the whole craziness around who ever had, but it’s still not comfortable for her to Political Marriage, and Leatherman: The Leg- wins and doesn’t win I just can’t buy into. For look into people’s eyes. The tricky thing about end of Chuck Renslow (co-written with Owen the winner, yes, it’s wonderful, and it would be the whole part was the dilemma of somebody Keehnen, also from Chicago). wonderful to win everything, particularly be- who has been stoic and behind a mask all those Queer (In)justice: The Criminalization of cause this is the most I have been invested and years—how much does she show on her face as LGBT People in the United States, by Chi- it was an incredible journey for me. she starts to look up and out at the world again? cagoan Joey Mogul, Andrea Ritchie and Kay But the journey itself had great closure and WCT: Did you consider adding a new charac- Whitlock, is also on the list. was challenging and satisfying in every way, so ter—a young woman pretending to be a teen- See the complete list at http://www.glb- trt.ala.org/overtherainbow. I don’t feel like awards would change that. Of age boy—so you could cast Justin Bieber in Angel Velez. course, I would love for a lot of people to see it. it? Think of the box office dollars that would 24 Feb. 1, 2012 WINDY CITY TIMES

the DISH WEEKLY DINING GUIDE IN DISH Coming out on ‘Top’ Out chef Dale Levitski on his new Boystown spot Chef Dale by Tony Peregrin bouillabaisse, and of course, frogs and snails. and working with the farmer’s there. Levitski. Photo “I’ve opened 5 to 6 restaurants, but this is the WCT: I love the idea of you pulling along courtesy of A French bistro named frog n snail belongs in first one where I am more in the driver’s seat,” your cart to the Nettelhorst farmer’s market Bravo Boystown; after all, boys are made of frogs and admits Levitski. “I think, more than anything, in search of fresh finds for frog n snail! snails (and puppy dog tails)—at least according the freedom to make my own choices and de- DL: Outside of Joncarl [Lachman] of HB, no to the beloved nursery rhyme. The new venture velop my own vision is the best part of opening one in Lakeview and Boystown is using the by chef Dale Levitski —located across the street frog n snail. It’s also the most nerve-racking! If farmers’ market. No one in the area is really from the Top Chef alum’s apartment in the space this doesn’t work, it’s my fault,” he admits with being competitive with other neighborhoods formerly occupied by Sura—will offer casual a good-natured laugh. and their restaurants. Lakeview is one of the bistro food, sweet and savory crepes, and a La Windy City Times chatted with Levitski about most densely populated neighborhoods in Colombe coffee bar. frog n snail (intentionally lower-cased for now, the city, and according to the Chamber “The Broadway strip is lacking in good, hot although the logo is still being finalized), his of Commerce, the number of house- food during café or coffee shop hours,” explains deep-rooted connection to Boystown, and which holds per square mile with an annual Levitski, when asked about the coffee bar. Ac- he finds more anxiety-inducing: launching a bis- income over $100,000 is higher than cording to Levistki, the bistro will serve lunch tro in this economy or appearing on another several other Chicago neighborhoods from 11-2:30, and then from 2:30-5 the estab- competitive reality show. combined—and yet, people are often lishment will feature a café with lighter fare, fol- Windy City Times: Why did you select Boys- forced to leave the neighborhood for lowed by a dinner menu that will offer Levitski’s town for frog n snail, Dale? lunch and dinner. take on French classics such as steak au poivre, Dale Levitski: Honestly, I see a lack of ingenu- WCT: Do you feel any trepidation ity and creativity in the restaurants in the area. about opening a new bistro in this Frog n Snail will be a French-American bistro, economy, especially with all the empty but we’ll also be dabbling in all kinds of Euro- storefronts haunting the Lakeview area? pean comfort food. I’m looking forward to tailor- DL: On that stretch of Broadway we’re got ing [the menu] to the Lakeview neighborhood. The Bagel, Stella’s, Wilde and Chicken Hut, and WCT: You have a special connection to the they are always busy and none of those res- area, specifically Belmont Harbor, where your taurants have ever closed. Pingpong has been family owned a boat in the ‘70s. Do you have there, for what, 10 years? And Wakamono? There a food memory from childhood that you re- is longevity on that strip, even more so than on turn to for inspiration? Halsted, where Firefly bit the dust not too long DL: I’ve lived in the area for 12 years, so it’s ago. definitely my home neighborhood. I distinctly WCT: How hands-on do you plan to be in remember back when I was a kid—now keep in terms of your time in the kitchen? mind Lakeview wasn’t the neighborhood it is to- DL: In the beginning I’ll have my hands in day—getting up at three in the morning and every dish, and in developing the menu, cook- going smelt fishing. I also remember bringing ing and training. I’m very obsessive-compulsive, a rowboat to North Avenue beach, back when and I’m a micromanager. [Laughs] By the way, I you were actually able to find live crawfish. Oh, will still have a presence at [Lincoln Park restau- how times have changed! [Laughs] Now, instead rant] Sprout—I’ll just be bouncing between the of crawfish, you’d find hypodermic needles. The two. neighborhood continues to inspire me. In fact, WCT: When was the last time you cooked I’ll be shopping at the French market at the Net- from a cookbook or read one for inspiration? telhorst School—I’ll be going there with my cart Turn to page 26

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To get your business listed in The Dish, contact [email protected] WINDY CITY TIMES Feb. 1, 2012 25 BOOKS ity; trans, intersex, and genderqueer identities; physical and mental health issues; monogamous and non-monogamous relationships; and reli- gion and spirituality. Gayle Pitman: Sexual Given that many of my students are fairly young (between 18-22 is pretty standard), we’ve also been talking a lot about the climate for LG- orientation research BTQ youth in high school and on college cam- puses—it’s been in the news a lot, and it’s very relevant to their lives. We also spend a lot of under the microscope time talking about the interplay between psy- chological research and political activism, which I discuss a lot in my book. By Sally Parsons the richness and complexity of the LGBTQ expe- WCT: A while back, you did research on the rience. physical and mental health of lesbians. Tell us Gayle Pitman, author of Backdrop, is a clinical WCT: Do you personally subscribe to the about that. What were your conclusions? Do psychologist and professor of psychology at biological basis for homosexuality, the social you still stand by them? If not, what changed Sacramento City College, where she teaches a construction basis or something else? your mind? course on the Psychology of Sexual Orientation. GP: I think I tend more towards the biological GP: Most of my research focused on the con- She lives in Northern California with her partner side of the continuum, with some caveats. The nection between internalized homophobia and Amy and daughter Rowan. Dr. Pitman responded biological evidence supporting the “born that physical and mental health issues in lesbians. recently to our questions surrounding the topic way” theory of homosexuality is quite compel- My dissertation study identified a connection of her book. ling, in my opinion, and my book covers a few of between internalized homophobia and negative Windy City Times: In your acknowledge- the major studies conducted in that area. body image. I did a couple of later studies that ments you indicated the research the people There’s also some preliminary evidence that indicated a link between internalized homopho- covered in your experimental class, The Psy- in Backdrop did changed your life. Can you suggests that male-to-female transsexualism bia and physical illness. Over the past 10 years, chology of Sexual Orientation. And, by the describe some ways in which this is the case? may be rooted in prenatal sex hormone exposure since I did my own research, I’ve seen these way, what is an “experimental” class? Gayle Pitman: No one study has necessarily (or lack thereof) and resulting brain structural findings confirmed over and over again. GP: My class started out as an “experimental” changed my life, per se—although I will say differences. That said, these studies almost uni- The finding that connects internalized ho- class when I first offered it in 2007, and is now laterally focus on exclusively gay men who enjoy mophobia and physical illness is particularly a permanent offering. At Sacramento City Col- race and class privilege. disturbing to me, because a growing body of lege, we have the option to “test the waters” If we included the experiences people who research indicates that homophobic attitudes with a new class before incorporating it into our lived in the gray areas of the gender and sexu- among doctors, nurses and other healthcare permanent course catalog. We cover all sorts of ality continuum (bisexuals, pansexuals, gender- practitioners are still alive and well, and that things in my class, including the possible causes queers, transmen and -women, etc.), we might lesbians who experience homophobia in a of sexual orientation; prejudice and discrimi- get a very different picture of what contributes healthcare environment are very likely to stop nation against sexual and gender minorities; to our sexual and gender identities. seeing their practitioner—even if they have a identity development and coming out; bisexual- WCT: Describe some of the things you’ve chronic illness. I’m hoping that, at some point, medical schools and nursing schools will require BOOK REVIEW eugenics—“the selection of specific genes to training on LGBTQ issues, and that more sig- ensure heterosexuality and discourage homo- nificant steps to eliminate homophobia in the Backdrop sexuality.” His argument is that parents have health care sector will be taken. by Gayle E. Pitman, Ph.D. the right to raise their children as they wish. $16.95; Active Voice Pitman counters by asking, “Do we really have Press; 278 pages the right to engage in the population con- REVIEW BY SALLY PARSONS trol of an oppressed group of people, even if it’s just at the level of a personal decision?” For most of us, I’d venture to say reading Where Pitman stands on this issue is clear, ‘God vs. Gay?’ about the size of the INAH-3 area of the hy- yet she strives to present a fair representa- pothalamus and the Xq28 marker on the X tion of Bailey’s thinking on the subject for a book tour at chromosome is a little intimidating. In Gayle balanced perspective. Pitman’s Backdrop, we learn (or refresh our Other researchers profiled in Backdrop in- center Feb. 16 Gayle Pitman. memories of) some landmark sexual-orien- clude Simon LeVay, who studied brain struc- Writer Jay Michaelson will discuss his tation studies and the researchers behind ture; Dean Hamer, who looked at the “gay book, God vs. Gay?: The Religious Case for them—what propelled them to conduct their gene;” and Lisa Diamond, who investigated Equality, Feb. 16 at the Center on Halsted, the “outlier” experiences of women and bi- 3656 N. Halsted St., at 7 p.m. that Lisa Diamond’s research on sexual fluidity research, the obstacles they encountered, and sexuals. The book is being promoted as “a progres- [“situationally-dependent flexibility in women’s the resulting political impact on their lives. Pitman concludes the book with a section sive look at homosexuality in religion told sexual responsiveness,” as defined by Diamond] We also learn what their own sexual orienta- on “activist researchers” and their work, and from a Jewish perspective. ... Michaelson struck a chord with me. I can personally relate tion was. a discussion of significant historical and embarks on a mission to reconcile sexuality to the sexual fluidity concept, and I’ve seen it Pitman is a clinical psychologist and profes- current LGBT public policy issues, includ- with Judeo-Christian religious traditions.” play out countless times among my non-hetero- sor of psychology at Sacramento City College ing “don’t ask, don’t tell,” sodomy laws, and For more on the book, see http://www. sexual female friends. Having said that, I think who has conducted her own research on the marriage equality rights. Finally, she profiles jaymichaelson.net/godvsgay. what’s impacted me more powerfully than any physical and mental health of lesbians. three groups—the pro-gay researchers who one study is the strength and courage it takes She believes the context of the researcher’s advocate for gay rights, the anti-gay religious for sexual orientation researchers to do the work background is essential to fully understand ‘The Wall’ burlesque groups, and what Pitman characterizes as the they do and stand by their convictions. Conduct- and appreciate the research itself and pres- “shadow characters” (radical lesbian femi- ing LGBTQ psychological research is not for the ents their stories in an engaging manner. Take tribute opens Feb. 9 nists and the polyamory community). Hot & Heavy Burlesque will present, for thin-skinned, because in this political climate Evelyn Hooker. She overcame bias against Pitman raises prickly questions about scien- its third year, the Burlesque Tribute To Pink researchers have to be prepared to navigate the women attending college (1920s). (She was tific objectivity. She makes an argument that Floyd’s The Wall. waters of social and political controversy. denied both admission to the Ph.D. program the human side matters. She contends that The 2012 production has moved to a new WCT: What are some of the unanswered at Yale and a teaching position at UCLA be- the context of the researcher’s background is venue at Stage 773, 1225 W. Belmont Ave., questions in sexual-orientation studies that cause she was female.) Hooker overcame all essential, “at least with respect to psycholog- and also features new acts, sets and projec- you’d like to see resolved? this to go on to establish that homosexuality ical research.” She touches on the power of tions. Audiences will see a rock opera-in- GP: So much of the sexual orientation research is within the normal range of human behavior. fear that pervades the scientific community, spired adventure that incorporates a visual focuses on white, exclusively gay, middle-class Her research led to removing homosexuality as often stifling important research efforts. journey. men, which isn’t at all representative of the en- an illness from the Diagnostic and Statistical Backdrop takes us behind the curtain of The show runs Thursday, Feb. 9, at 10 tire LGBTQ population. As I discuss in my book, Manual of Mental Disorders. She was awarded sexual orientation research and sensitizes us p.m.; Friday, Feb. 10, at 10 p.m.; Saturday, non-heterosexual women may be less likely to the 1991 Award for Distinguished Contribu- to the sometimes shaky grounds on which sci- Feb. 11, at 7 and 10 p.m.; and Sunday, Feb. experience the same developmental process that tions to Psychology in the Public Interest by entific research perches. A book that makes 12, at 7 p.m. gay men go through. The absence of people of the American Psychological Association. you think is always a good thing. With Back- Tickets are $17 in advance (and $22 at color and the intersection of racism with ho- Then there’s J. Michael Bailey. A straight drop, we can muse about the truth behind the door); see http://www.stage773.com/ mophobia is a glaring omission from the litera- man, Bailey is best known for his studies of scientific research and what we, as a society, Show?id=10. ture. I think if we focused more heavily on the identical male twins, which found there was a are obliged to do with the truth once it’s out experiences of those who occupy the “fringes” of 52-percent chance that if one twin was gay, there. the LGBTQ community—for example, people who the other would be, too. Bailey has been vili- Follow Pitman on her blog, backdrop- are bisexual, genderqueer, of color, polyamorous, fied by both gay and anti-gay activists for his book.wordpress.com. BDSM—I think we’d learn so much more about findings, including his support of homosexual 26 Feb. 1, 2012 WINDY CITY TIMES CLASSIFIEDS REAL ESTATE ADVERTISE HERE HELP WANTED PERSONAL FITNESS FOR SALE - HOMES ADVERTISE HERE: Want to advertise your product, NOW HIRING DRIVERS MV Transportation is hiring PERSONAL FITNESS TRAINER You can have the body you WWW.GAYREALESTATE.COM Free Instant Access to service, etc. to thousands of readers? Place an ad in the bus drivers to start immediately. $12.50/hr to start want. 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LEVITSKI from pg. 24 down the street from frog n snail, that little stretch of Broadway is becoming something of a mini Top Chef restaurant row! Kat Fitzgerald DL: Um, a Couple hours ago! I read cookbooks DL: Yeah, I’ve known Chuy for a few years. every single day. I like going into old, clas- He has the best restaurant in the neighborhood, Photographer sic cookbooks and finding things that people for sure. He’s on the board of directors of the haven’t done in a long time or things that have chamber of commerce, so he’s really invested in fallen out of fashion. We’ll definitely have a few the neighborhood. Who knows? Maybe it will be- of those things on the menu at frog. come the new top chef restaurant row! [Laughs] WCT: Wait—you just referred to the bistro WCT: You’re about seven weeks away from as “frog,” which I think has a nice ring to it. opening frog n snail, right? DL: We call it “frog” for shorthand. I think it’s DL: You know, a part of me wouldn’t mind cute. The name frog ‘n snail is inspired by the just opening the door one day and seeing what two most disgusting things about French food, happens. But, actually, we will not just open according to Americans. the door and have 100 people walk in. The first WCT: Let’s talk about the interior design. At night we’ll do 50-75 and grow from there, so one point you had a Facebook status update that we can be sure to serve everyone properly that said the bistro will have “tons of wood in and get everything fine-tuned. I don’t want to unexpected shades and in unexpected plac- live through a disastrous opening day, believe es.” me, I’ve done that before. [Laughs] DL: At this point, I don’t want to give way WCT: What’s scarier, Dale—opening a new too much! Let me just say that if you were in restaurant or the thought of competing on Sura before you’ll see a monumental change. The another reality-TV show? floor is the same, as it is too expense to change DL: Um, I think opening a restaurant is scarier it, but there are five different types of wood, than reality TV for sure, because it’s real, and and three different kinds of stone throughout reality TV is not. Just look at the Kardashians! the space. I was actually picking out fabric to- [Laughs] day for chairs and banquettes, so I got my gay frog n snail will be at 3124. N. Broadway. on there. Visit http://frognsnail.com for more informa- www.mysticimagesphotography.com WCT: With Chuy Valencia’s restaurant just tion. WINDY CITY TIMES Feb. 1, 2012 27 CIVIL UNION: Share your special moments with the community in Windy City Times’ new announcement section! Carr/Bachhuber Celebrations Michael J. Carr, Jr. and Fredrick R. Bachhuber were united January 21, 2012, in a civil-union ceremony performed by William Healy at The Crystal Garden on Navy Pier in Chicago, Ill. This was the first civil-union performed at the Crystal Garden. Michael is the son of Denise and Michael Carr of Tinley Park, Ill. Fredrick is the son of Carol and Peter Bachhuber of Kansas City, Mo. A reception followed the ceremony. The couple will honeymoon in Paris, Rome and Florence. Michael graduated from St. Rita High School (Chicago, Ill.) in 1998; from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 2004 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in economics. He is the President of Aspirant Marketing, Inc. in Denver, CO. Fred graduated from Rockhurst High School (Kansas City, MO) in Photos by Dave Ouano 1999 from Case-Western Reserve University in 2004 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in economics, psychology and international studies; and from The University of Chicago’s Booth School in 2010 with an MBA with concentrations in finance, entrepreneurship and strategy. He is a Senior Financial Analyst at Dish Network, LLC.

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NIGHTSPOTS IS THE SISTER PUBLICATION OF WINDY CITY TIMES. SPECIAL CONTENT FROM PICK UP THE NEW ISSUE NOW OR SEE MORE ONLINE AT nightspots WWW.WINDYCITYMEDIAGROUP.COM

Longtime local LGBT activist and former MARRS ATTACKS Nightspots/Windy City Times office manager John Pennycuff (left) passed away Jan. 29 after a two- by Homer Marrs month illness. John and his partner Robert Castillo made the March 24, 2004, cover of Nightspots 10 Pickup Lines that Cut to the Quick after flying to California that year to get married in San Francisco. The background of the cover is their actual certificate. The marriage was nullified by the Can we make a Valentine’s Day resolution to 6. Hey, newbie. Everyone at this bar gave state and they were remarried in California four be a little more honest when we meet each up on me long ago, but you’ve never been years later. John spent years on the forefront of other? If nothing else it will make our love here before so statistically speaking I have a the marriage fight and we were glad to honor him lives more entertaining. Instead of “Do I know chance. What’s your name? with this cover. you from Grindr” and “Are you a top or a Please see the story on page 10 for information bottom,” here are some conversation starters 7. Hi there, beautiful. I saw you and thought, that could save a lot of guys a lot of time: “He looks like just the sorta sap who will on John’s life and on his memorial. actually believe the sick, subtle ways I will Photo and design of cover art by graysong 1. I find you sexually attractive. Can you talk blame him for my own flaws. Might be from for a little while so I can see if that changes? a broken home or something.” Here, drink Jose Antonio Casco (pictured above, this beer. right), owner of the now-closed 2. My boyfriend and I recently broke up and Chesterfield’s for more than 10 years you look exactly like him. May I project all 8. I’m on tons of drugs. Are you on tons of on the South Side, opened his new his qualities onto you and then dump you in drugs? I need to hook up with someone else restaurant/bar, Antronio’s, over the a few weeks when I realize you’re not him, who’s on tons of drugs so I can perpetuate weekend at 6319 W. Roosevelt Rd. The implying that the breakup is somehow your this myth I believe that it’s okay to be on tons new venue’s name comes from the fault? of drugs. Mexican slang “antro” (meaning “hip bar”) combined with his name. The space has 3. Hi there, sad and lonely. I’m way out of 9. The moment I laid eyes on you I knew tons of potential, containing two large your league. I’m sure you see this and will put you were materialistic enough to be won spaces for dancing, videos, drag shows, me on a pedestal to keep me by your side, over by my expensive clothes and fat-cat and billiard playing which my weak ego desperately needs. Care mannerisms, but naïve enough not to probe The restaurant will serve customers to buy me a drink? me for more substantive attributes, which I during the day and the bar will open at 10 don’t have. Let daddy buy you a cocktail. pm for nightlife seven days a week. 4. You look sheepish. I’m sheepish myself. Opening night on Jan. 27 brought the Let’s stand against the wall and feel awkward 10. I’m just like all the rest, buddy. Do LGBT community together and showed together. yourself a favor: Enjoy what you can right that the Latino scene really is all-inclusive now and then run the fuck for your life. in Illinois. Old friends­—many who have 5. My partner and I have degenerated into not been on the scene since Chesterfield’s roommates. We’d like a third for the night so closed— gathered to toast to the new we can each pretend we’re having sex with Homer can be reached at homermarrs@ establishment. you individually while still preserving the gmail.com. Text and photo by Jerry Nunn façade of our relationship. Are you game? 28 Feb. 1, 2012 WINDY CITY TIMES

Saturday, Feb. 4 Danny Sotomayor NAMES Project AIDS Memorial Quilt for the late activist Danny Sotomayor will be on display as a special tribute on the 20th anniversary of his death. There will be refreshments. 9am- Brought to you by the combined efforts of 4pm, Center on Halsted, 3656 N Halsted Cabaret Fundraiser Columbia College Chi- cago presents An Evening of Cabaret, WINDY CITY featuring veteran and emerging Chicago- PLAY BALL area cabaret artists, including alumni, TIMES students, and faculty of the Columbia Col- lege Chicago Musical Theatre Program. The Sunday, Feb. 5 performance will raise funds for the Betty A Super Bowl Madonna Wed., Feb. 1 Garrett Musical Theatre Scholarship at the Blow Out Party will take Michael Forti for Cook County Judge Re- POLITICAL PARTY college. 7:30pm-11pm, Columbia College ception. Meet Michael Forti and support Theatre Building, 72 E. 11th St., 4th floor, place at Crew, 4804 N. the only LGBT candidate slated by the Saturday, Feb. 11 http://www.colum.edu/dance_center/ Broadway. Chicago Democratic Party for Cook County There will be a fundraiser for performances/ Varla Jean Merman Live Join Hydrate for an Judge in the March 2012 primary election. U.S. Rep. (and U.S. Senate 6pm-8pm, Sidetrack, 3349 N Halsted St, intimate evening of theater and insanity Chicago, http://www.michaelfortifor- candidate) Tammy Baldwin at with the award winning comedian and star judge.com the home of Hal Shipman and of “Girls Will Be Girls,” Varla Jean Merman! Gay Liberation Network organizing meet- Channing Greene. (Baldwin 9pm, Hydrate, 3458 N. Halsted, Chicago, limited. RSVP online. 7pm-9pm, Film Row ing Join with Chicago’s LGBT direct action http://www.hydratechicago.com Cinema of Columbia College Chicago, 1104 is slated to Skype into the 9 to 12 No Tap Bowling League Longest group at their monthly organizing meet- event.) S Wabash, 8th Floor, Chicago, http://www. ing -- new members welcome! 7pm-9pm, running GLBT Bowling League in suburban colum.edu/conversations/ Chicago 191 South River Road (just north 773-209-1187, Berger Park Cultural Center Bi discussion night Two-year anniversary 6205 N. Sheridan Road, http://www.gay- Official head shot of Rand Road) in Des Plaines; 9pm, 630- of bi programs at the Center. Ryne P. a liberation.net 567-7196, River Rand Bowl, Des Plaines youth activist who stands up against ho- cerated transgender people. We will be American Veterans for Equal Rights (GLBT Unnecessary Farce Don’t miss the Chicago CAKE Chicago. Madonna Theme. Prize for mophobia, biphobia and transphobia will reading selections, distributing copies of veterans) monthly meeting First Thurs- Premiere of Paul Slade Smith’s side-split- the best outfit of the night. Special guest, be presented the Bill Clayton award. 7pm, the ‘zine, displaying artwork, collecting day of each month. 7pm, Center on Hal- ting and bawdy comedy Unnecessary Farce Ashley Thornton. 9p - Rebecca Kling. 9:30 Center on Halsted, 3656 N Halsted, Chi- donations to support the next volume, sted, 3656 N Halsted, Chicago, http:// directed by Alison C. Vesely. Unnecessary - Vanessa Vincent . 10:30 - Roxy Swain. cago, http://www.centeronhalsted.org and partying down abolition-style. RSVP www.averchicago.org [email protected]. 9pm, 773-274- Farce runs Wed., Feb 1 - Sun., March 4. $1 Drinks: College Night It doesn’t mat- on Facebook! 5pm-8pm, Jane Addams Newtown Writers Elevating GLBT literature. 8pm-10pm, 630.986.8067, First Folio The- 5463, The Red Line Tap 7006 N. Glenwood, ter if you have to go to class or work on Hull-House Museum, 800 S. Halsted Ave., February general workshops are the 2nd atre, 31st St. & Rt. 83, Oakbrook, http:// http://www.facebook.com/cakechicago Wednesdays, because Hydrate’s tearing Chicago, http://https://www.facebook. and the 16th. The February theater-writ- www.firstfolio.org Tuesdays up with $1 Drinks and $4 Rebel com/events/324087747613096/ ing workshop is the 9th. 7:30pm, Gerber/ QSC - Leap Year Since it’s leap year, QSC Sunday, Feb. 5 Bombs! 8pm, Hydrate, 3458 N. Halsted, Science: Invincible and strongest ally of Hart Library, 1127 W Granville Ave, Chi- is welcoming back startender extraordi- Super Bowl Madonna Blow Out Party On Chicago, http://www.hydratechicago.com naire and most favorite Leap Day b-day women Feminism, sociology, sexual poli- cago, http://www.gerberhart.org Super Bowl Sunday, Halsted’s and Edge Al- girl, Ashley. Good tunes, great people, tics talk by Kirsten Legn, postdoctoral fel- Thirsty Thursdays Je t’aime Entertainment liance will present their 2012 Super Bowl Wed., Feb. 8 low in Sexuality Studies. 5pm, Northwest- Presents: Thirsty Thursdays $3 “You Call Party! The game will play in HD on all 12 and cheap drinks to help ease the winter Sex, Chocolate and Your Pelvic Floor ern University Kresge 2-357, 1880 Campus it”, Chicago’s Largest LGBTQA Night with TV screens! Your $10 donation to Edge cold away. $2 Hamms, $5 Pork n Beams event- What You Want, What You Need, Dr., Evanston special drag performances, resident DJ (Hamms + shot), $3. Free cheeseballs, Alliance will get you an all access pass What You Need To Know is Chicago’s Thursday Night Fever The Cerqua Rivera Fuego and special guests at Watra Night pool, board games and sass. Archie’s Tav- to a spread of Halsted’s favorite foods! unique, fun, educational ladies night out Dance Theatre and Nia Tapas Restaurant Club; 9pm, 773-558-1093, 4758 S. Pulas- ern, 2600 W. Iowa St. 9pm, http://www. 4pm-7pm, Halsted’s Bar and Grill, 3441 N (women only - no men allowed!). This present Groundhog Day, Chicago style. ki, http://www.facebook.com/jetaimechi facebook.com/qsc.archies Halsted St., http://www.edgealliance.org/ event gives women the opportunity to Free red and white sangria and nibbles Meet the Candidate: Brad Trowbridge learn how to improve pelvic and sexual for the first hour and hot disco all night. Thursday, Feb. 2 Friday, Feb. 3 Trowbridge is running for a judicial post health while offering a comfortable, re- $20 per person advance reservations, $30 First Friday Networking Social Join Equal- Release of Hidden Expressions ‘zine Trans- in the Cook County 8th Judicial Subcir- laxed atmosphere where women can eas- at the door. 6:30pm, 312.226.3110, Nia ity Illinois PAC for the super-popular formative Justice Law Project of Illinois cuit, known for his work on issues that ily laugh and learn. Advance tickets only Restaurant (803 W. Randolph), http://cer- monthly First Friday Networking Social. celebrates artwork, essays, poetry, and greatly affect women and children, such $50! Tickets will be available at the door quarivera.org/blog A big crowd always comes out for First how-to-guides created by and for incar- as domestic violence. 4:30pm, Women & for $75. 7pm-10pm, Beauty Bar, http:// Friday, so please stop by for the fun, Children First, 5233 N. Clark St., http:// www.totalcontrolprogram.com/assets/ cocktails, and prize drawings. For a $10 www.womenandchildrenfirst.com root/html/scpf donation to the Equality Illinois PAC, you LGBT men Rainbow Brunch North Shore Reading: My Desire for History, Essays in receive two drink tickets and a ticket for a and women who meet the first Sunday Gay, Community, and Labor History John door prize drawing. 6pm-8pm, Sidetrack, of every month to socialize and make D’Emilio will discuss his recent collection 3349 N Halsted St, http://eqil.org/events. new friends. There is no membership fee. of Allan Bérubé essays, and their connec- html Brunch is under $8.00, pay at the door; tion to LGBTQ organizing taking place in Down With Love: A Cabaret Show From In- 10am-12pm, Old Country Buffet, 8780 W. Chicago today. He will be joined by Kim natevloution Theater. Featuring the songs Dempster, Niles Hunt, Executive Director of Affinity Com- of Motown. Directed by Toma & Raymond Urban Village Church Spiritual worship is munity Services and Tania Unzueta, Co- K. Cleveland. $20 includes 1 drink ticket about coming together as community to ordinator of the LGBTQ Immigrant Rights for well, house wine or Miller drinks. Seat- make space for God to move in us. It’s a Project at the Association of Latino Men ing at 7, show at 7:30. 7pm-10pm, The place to receive God’s grace and love and for Action, for a discussion of past and Call (Chicago), 1547 W Bryn Mawr, http:// to give of ourselves, as well. 10:15am- present LGBTQ activism, race, class and www.facebook.com/thecallbar 11:30am, Urban Village Church, Spertus gender. A Crossroads Fund event. 6pm- First Fridays at Parlour Monthly First Fri- Institute, 610 S. Michigan Ave., http:// 8pm, Center on Halsted, 3656 N Halsted, days event, benefiting Howard Brown www.urbanvillagechurch.org Chicago, http://www.centeronhalsted.org Health Center. This month, featuring sing- Super Bowl at Crew See the Patriots take er/songwriter and Homolatte producer ex- on the Giants in Super Bowl XLVI. Kickoff Saturday, Feb. 11 traordinaire Scott Free. $10 for two drink at 5:30. $6.50 double Bloody Marys, $10 Equality Illinois 21st Annual Justice for tickets; a portion of the proceeds goes to Miller Lite pitchers, $12.50 Beergarita & All Benefit Gala Continuing its more HBHC. $5 raffle tickets for a chance to mimosa pitchers. And what better place than decade-long tradition as the largest win a champagne cocktail party for 20 at to see the Madonna halftime show? 5pm- LGBT black-tie gala in the Midwest. 6pm- Parlour and more. All are welcome (yes, 10pm, Crew Bar & Grill, 4804 N Broadway, 11:45pm, Chicago Hilton and Towers, 720 all) and ladies can stay afterwards for Chicago, http://www.worldsgreatestbar. S Michigan Ave, http://www.eqil.org Lipstick Fridays, featuring DJ Teri Bristol. com Fundraiser for U.S. Senate candidate, 7pm-9pm, Parlour on Clark, 6341 N Clark, January Dining Asians and Friends Chicago Rep. Tammy Baldwin Rep. Baldwin will Chicago, http://www.parlouronclark.com Club Please RSVP to hotline. 7pm, 312- be Skyping in to greet the attendees and Flesh Hungry Dog Show This month fea- 409-1573, Adobo Grill, 1610 N. Wells, Chi- talk briefly about the campaign. Cocktails, turing Fatally Coo, Dyke Van Dick, Skinny cago, http://www.afchicago.org; Tickets: beer, wine, with a few of the host’s spe- Paul, with special guest Andrea Sottovoce. http://www.siamnoodleandrice.com cialty drinks and hors d’oeuvres. Dona- 9pm, Jackhammer, 6406 N Clark Street, tion: $50 per person, which can be paid Chicago, http://www.brownpapertickets. Tuesday, Feb. 7 by check at the event. Location and in- com/event/222230. Columbia College Chicago’s Conversa- formation by phone 646-320-0212; 4pm- Bi-Polar Fridays at @mosphere Bar Every tions in the Arts Gloria Steinem will be 6pm. Home of Hal Shipman and Channing Friday the ONLY place to be is @mosphere DEAR JOHN the featured speaker for Columbia College Greene—call for info or visit http://www. Bar in Andersonville for Bi-Polar Friday’s. Chicago’s Conversations in the Arts, a in- victoryfund.org/tammy50 Wed., Feb. 8 Hosted by Regina Upright; 10pm, 773- depth dialogue series with some of the 784-1100, @mosphere, 5355 N. Clark St., world’s most notable cultural figures in Historian John D’Emilio will discuss his collection of http://atmospherebar.com a select and intimate setting. Seating is Allan Berube essays and LGBTQ organizing at Center on Halsted, 3656 N. Halsted St. Get WindyCityMediaGroup.com Photo by Hal Baim : online ChicagoPride.com WINDY CITY TIMES Feb. 1, 2012 29 BILLY MASTERS

“For me, it is a choice. I understand that for many play is being shot this summer by “Glee” creator people it’s not, but for me, it’s a choice, and you Ryan Murphy, and has quite a few familiar names don’t get to define my gayness for me.”—Cynthia attached. Mark Ruffalo will play Ned Weeks, Alec Nixon explains that she’s been attracted to both Baldwin is playing his brother, Matt Bomer will men and women. I’m not exactly sure where her play Ned’s lover and Jim Parsons will reprise “betrothed” fits in. the role of Tommy Boatwright that he played Prior to heading off to Ft. Lauderdale, Fla., I with aplomb in the Broadway revival last year. zipped down to San Diego to see Dividing the What about the plum role of Dr. Emma Brookner? Estate at the Old Globe Theatre, starring Eliz- That has been assigned to Julia Roberts—which abeth Ashley and Penny Fuller. I’ve only seen means poor Ellen Barkin has been screwed over Penny in a few things but am always struck by once again. how authentic she is. As to La Ashley, I have More and more celebs are joining the fight to traveled far and wide to see her tackle many legalize gay marriage. Last week, Olivia Newton- roles and, as far as I’m concerned, there are few John and Hugh Jackman joined the Australian who can hold a candle to her incandescent tal- Marriage Equality campaign. Livvy said, “I be- ent. Playwright David Dillon will roll his eyes lieve that no one has the right to judge and when I say that one of my favorite stories to deny couples who love each other the ability to tell at parties is about being backstage with Liz make a marriage commitment.” after a performance of Who’s Afraid of Virginia I’m not sure what to make of Demi Moore. First o iiccaaggo Woolf. So the next time you see me at a party, we hear she’s addicted to Red Bull. Then Ad- && CChh feel free to ask. derall was tossed in—just to take the edge off. leaannss w OOrrle I first met Thomas Jane when he was appear- But after reportedly smoking something “similar ,, NNeew ing in “The Glass Menagerie” at the Laguna Play- to incense,” she had to be rushed to the hos- nneeyy ,, SSyydd house. Now, a dozen years later, the 42-year-old pital when she began having seizures from al- VVeenniiccee actor says he’s sick and tired of having to dress legedly doing dangerous amounts of “whip-its.” BBrraazziill,, younger to feel relevant: “I’m as sharp as I’ve What are “whip-its?” Those are cans of Reddi- ee iinn ever been, I’m wiser than I’ve ever been, I’m wip whipped cream! They’re packed with nitrous MMaadd physically in great health—but now I’m being oxide, which Demi was allegedly enjoying. (She passed over because I’m in my f**king 40s, by obviously skipped the whipped cream, given her society as a whole.” That’s a lot of complaining gaunt appearance.) Then some outlets reported by someone who’s hung. that she was a cutter. But, as it turned out, the But it does lead to a fascinating question— press simply had the wrong Demi! what would you give up to have the perfect Then there’s poor Andy Dick. Sigh ... Andy, NO COVER Thank you. body? In a recent UK study, half of the gay men Andy, Andy. Every time we think you’ve cleaned ® polled revealed that they would be willing to your act up, you let us down. Yes, he’s being give up a year or more of their lives in exchange sued for sexual abuse and battery by some cou- 33334499 NN.. HHaallsstteedd ple in Kentucky. However, that incident was over SSiiddeettrraacckkCChhiiccaaggoo..ccoomm /SidetrackBar a year ago, and he swore he learned his lesson. And then, he was doing stand-up at a club in Los Angeles last week and he dropped his pants to show that he had tucked his penis! Now, I know how hard it is to get a laugh in an L.A. club, but this is too much—or, in Andy’s case, too little! He also allegedly humped an audience member’s face, but that might have been his en- CLICKTOWIN! core. You can go to BillyMasters.com and check out the photos ... or, as I’m sure they’ll soon be “Songs My referred to, Exhibit A. Our “Ask Billy” question comes from Jackson Mother Taught in Reno: “Did you see this week’s ‘Are You There, Chelsea’? Who was the hot guy who played the Me” Christian rocker? He was gorgeous!” If there’s one thing I can count on, it’s my with Lorna Luft readers noticing a hot blond who’s not neces- sarily of age. My God, Thomas Jane was right! Of Sun., Feb. 12 course, that didn’t stop me from finding out who he was. His name is Austin Butler and he’s 20 ... @ Paramount Theatre so he’s kinda legal. He’s appeared in a bunch of those shows on Nickelodeon and other things Songstress Lorna Luft honors her iconic my teenage nieces watch. My favorite part of mother Judy Garland in “Songs My Mother his bio was how he was discovered. When he Taught Me.” Celebrate the legend, the music, was 13, a guy who books people to be extras and the memories! in movies approached Butler at a county fair and said he had a great “look.” If that ain’t a According to Billy, Julia Roberts (above) got Tickets on sale now at paramountaurora. pick-up line, I dunno what is! That said, it’s un- one over on Ellen Barkin. com, or charge by phone at 630-896-6666 deniable that Austin is hot and has an incred- ible body—certainly more developed than most for the perfect body. In addition, 10 percent of kids his age. Also, he’s dating that triple threat, those guys would be willing to die 11 years ear- Vanessa Hudgens. If nothing else, you can start ENTER TO WIN one pair of tickets by sending lier if they could have the perfect body immedi- fantasizing about him and Zac hooking up while an email with “LORNA” ately, because we gays are an impatient people. you ogle his hot photos on BillyMasters.com. in the subject line to Most of the guys surveyed admit that they com- When I’m having fun with Dick and Jane, it’s [email protected] pare themselves to better-looking men, which definitely time for me to end yet another col- by Mon., Feb. 6 to be entered. makes sense to me. Who compares themselves to umn. We’re running so long this week, I barely the one-legged old man with an eye patch and a have time to tell you to check out www.Billy- Winner will be selected at random from all hump? Well, the study says one-third of the gay Masters.com, the site that can be addictive. If entries and will be notified via email. One men compare themselves to men they find less you’ve got a question only I can answer, send an entry per person, please. attractive. I wanna know who these people are e-mail to [email protected] and I promise ... because I might wanna date them! to get back to you before Demi discovers what There’s some casting news regarding the film other dessert toppings could be used as a stimu- version of The Normal Heart. The long-proposed lant! So, until next time, remember, one man’s big screen adaptation of Larry Kramer’s hit filth is another man’s bible. 30 Feb. 1, 2012 WINDY CITY TIMES SkiBudz going century. Tickets start at $25 and are available via all Ticketmaster outlets, http://www.Tick- Mostly LGBT cycling to Midwest etmaster.com, 800-745-3000 and the Allstate Gay Ski Weekend Arena box office. club to mark 20 years Feb. 3-5 Weir returns to By Ross Forman SkiBudz, Chicago’s gay ski and snowboard club, will travel to the 2012 Granite Peak/ competitive skating The Windy City Cycling Club (WCCC) celebrates Midwest Gay Ski Weekend Feb. 3-5 in Wausau, Out figure skater Johnny Weir, 27, has an- its 20th anniversary in March, with recreational, Wis. nounced his return to competitive skating— road and off-road bike rides for LGBT members. This is the Midwest’s largest gay ski and with his goal being the 2014 Winter Olympics The group also is involved in bicycle advocacy snowboard event. There will be a great week- in Sochi, Russia, according to Outsports.com. and cycling education events, and has regular end of skiing/boarding, dinners, apres-ski ac- He tweeted, “The bitch is back! So excited social events, too. tivities and much more. Last year, 125 people to do this, with you all on my side. I promise Plus, during the winter, the WCCC organizes from throughout the Midwest attended this to try my best to make you proud!” outdoor and indoor recreational activities, such event. At a news conference, Weir said, “I wanted as skiing, tobogganing, ice skating, bowling and Special discount rates are available at the to do this while I still have the time. I didn’t more. Jefferson Street Inn, the host hotel in down- want to be 50 years old and look back and say, “At first, the WCCC mainly was just a social town Wausau. Visit http://www.skibudz.org ‘Oh, those last two years before Sochi’ and I outlet for those looking to meet others in a non- for more trip information. kind of let them go, doing other things.” bar setting. The group offered a safe environ- Contact [email protected] if you Weir recently married boyfriend Victor Vo- ment, people with a common interest,” said Jef- have any questions about this event. ronov. ferson Rogers, 55, who lives in Wilmette, works as a financial advisor and has been a WCCC mem- ber for 11 years. He was elected as the group’s ‘Stars on Ice’ at president for 2012. “Over the years, the club has become more of Rosemont March 11 a biking club than [early years].” The figure-skating tour “Stars on Ice” will Rogers said the WCCC membership is wide- visit Rosemont, Ill., Sunday, March 11, 2012, ranging and diverse, with members in their 20s for a 5 p.m. performance at Allstate Arena. and some even in their 70s. Mostly, though, it’s The tour will get a new infusion of creativ- riders 30-60 years of age. ity from legendary skater Kurt Browning, who The club is predominantly male, although the will co-direct and choreograph this year’s pro- most growth it has seen in recent years has been duction. through outreach to women, Rogers said. The event includes Browning; Olympic silver About 90 percent of its members are LGBT. medalist Sasha Cohen; two-time Olympic gold “We probably can toot our horn a bit that we medalist Ekaterina Gordeeva; 1998 Olympic have been around for 20 years because we have gold medalist Ilia Kulik; and world champion had to adapt through a number of changes,” and six-time U.S. national champion Todd El- over the years, Rogers said. “The biggest change dredge, among others. has been the cultural shift and greater accep- Jefferson Rogers and partner, Mark. Photo Founded in 1986 by skating icon Scott tance of the LGBT community. courtesy of Jefferson Rogers Hamilton, the Stars on Ice tour has played “I think [LGBT] groups such as ours, and other more than 1,000 shows for over a quarter of a Johnny Weir. PR photo gay sports groups, have been challenged in at- year,” Rogers said. “Last year, for instance, we tracting new members [in recent years among added a Wednesday night ride which proved to younger LGBT]; their generation is generally be a very popular ride.” ADVERTISEMENT more accepting, whereas, when the club started, The WCCC also has regular Saturday rides, and When experience counts... it was needed a lot more than it is today.” monthly rides to Hyde Park, and weekly rides on Rogers, who grew up in the St. Louis area and the North Shore. In service to the community for over 30 years. has lived in Chicagoland for the past 16 years, The club is an important social outlet for a lot was new to riding when he joined the club. He’s of the members, Rogers said. In addition, the The Law Offices of since become a better rider and met plenty of WCCC has had members participate in the annual Roger V. McCaffrey-Boss & Associates new friends who also share an interest in rid- Ride For AIDS Chicago. ing.” For more information on the Windy City Cy- The WCCC has about 100 active members. cling Club, visit http://www.windycitycycling- AVOIDING A WILL CONTEST; THE IRONCLAD WILL - PART II “Our ride calendar has gotten fuller every club.com.

Last week’s article concerned an LGBT couple where one member had cancer, was in the hospital and wanted to make a will to leave his house, car and the bank accounts to his lover. It isn’t enough to simply have a will. The will must be as ironclad as possible. Often times family members who are disinherited in favor of a LGBT lover will be angry as hell and will try to contest the will. Although there is no way to guarantee that a will won’t be challenged there are ways to avoid will contests. First, have your will drafted by a specialist. This area of the law has become more complex. There are cases of inexperienced attorneys making mistakes. Common mistakes include leaving out residuary clauses, omitting contingency plans, misnaming charities and perhaps the biggest mistake of all, not keeping up with tax law changes. Second, try to avoid having an “angry will.” Many times someone who is writing a will is mad at a friend or relative and wants to express that anger in the will. Examples could include, “I leave nothing to my good-for-nothing brother, Jack the louse,” or “I leave nothing to my evil mother and father, who never liked my lover.” Venomous statements in wills can show the maker to be terribly prejudiced and narrow-minded. And carried far enough, such prejudice might be used to show that the maker was incompetent to make the will. Because angry provisions in wills serve no real purpose it is better to leave them out. You don’t want to offer a relative an opportunity to contest your will by showing that you really did love the relative and therefore must have been incompetent at the time the will was signed. Some people wanting to get retribution from the grave often include a “no contest” or “in terrorem” clause in their will. They will leave a small bequest to family members thinking that they are obligated under the law to leave their families something or run the risk of having their will contested. Such a clause can raise the issue that the will maker was prejudiced or irrational and provide the ammunition for a will contest. The better practice is to simply leave family members out of the will. They must then look elsewhere for the ammunition to contest the will.

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