THE VOICE OF CHICAGO’S GAY, LESBIAN, BI AND TRANS COMMUNITY SINCE 1985 July 15, 2009 • vol 24 no 41 www.WindyCityMediaGroup.com The ‘Diva’ Comes To Life

BY TRACY BAIM

Rupert Kinnard was always among my favorite cartoonists. For many years, his Cathartic Com- ics featuring the Brown Bomber and Diva Touché Flambé ran in Outlines and other LGBT media LGBT deaf around the country, and he published a collec- page 8 tion of the characters in book form. A former conference Chicagoan, Kinnard broke ground as an openly gay African-American cartoonist and graphic designer. Kinnard, who became a paraplegic as a result of a car accident several years ago, is now work- ing on a new book, The LifeCapsule, with amaz- ing illustrations and autobiographical material that make me love him even more. Now living in Portland, Ore., with his partner of many years, Kinnard runs a guest house and is hoping to help others illustrate their lives. If you are familiar with lesbian cartoonist Alison Bechdel (Dykes to Watch Out For) and her award-winning autobio- Thoughts on graphical graphic novel Fun Home, you get the idea of what Kinnard is planning, on an even Seeing Obama page 6 larger scale. It was a pleasure to reconnect with Kinnard dur- ing a recent Chicago visit, and I followed up with him for this e-mail interview. Tracy Baim: Can you tell us about your up- bringing in Chicago, where you grew up and went to school? Rupert Kinnard: I was born in Chicago in 1954 into a family that eventually consisted of my- self, my mother, my father and four sisters. I was very much aware that it was good to have a Margaret Turn to page 16 Cho page 14 A talk with Cleve Jones

By Lawrence Ferber scheduled for Oct. 11. erything. That includes marching, writing let-

July 8, 2009 Cleve Jones: It’s definitely happening and ters, lobbying, engaging in nonviolent civil dis- #992 Cleve Jones wants to recruit you. Instrumental the response from around the country has been obedience. Every creative nonviolent action we in the making of Gus Van Sant’s multiple Oscar- pretty overwhelming and excited. The website can think of to take, we need to take now. winning film, Milk (and depicted in said film is nationalequalitymarch.com. We’re combining WCT: As of mid-June, some gay-rights orga- nightspots by Emile Hirsch), the Indiana-born Jones also the march with a really aggressive campaign to nizations seemed to pooh-pooh a march. Why n founded The NAMES Project and its AIDS Memo- organize people in all 435 congressional dis- is that, and do you think they’ll change their pick it up The Ladies on Their Motorcycles rial Quilt during the 1980s. This summer sees tricts across the USA to put as much pressure as tune?

AKA Dykes on Bikes at this year’s Pride Parade. page 16-17 take it home inSIDE CJ: I’m sure they’re all going to support it. Black Pride Poetry Slam. many public appearances for Jones, including possible on congress and the president to get us Pride Fest. page 12 page 8 Gay Pride in New York City marking the 40th An- full equality. They are by nature cautious. Part of the problem niversary of Stonewall (alongside Milk’s Dustin WCT: What specific demands are you mak- is when people think of a march on Washington Lance Black and Anne Kronenberg) and Van- ing? they think of previous marches. Those were enor- couver, which he is using to activist ends. Here CJ: We have only one demand: We want equal mously complex, expensive affairs that required Jones discusses the upcoming March on Wash- protection under the law in all matters governed the expenditure of enormous sums of money. ington and what we can do to finally gain full by civil law in all 50 states. We’re not doing that. We’re not an organiza- equality on a federal level—and how we need WCT: Why organize a march instead of lobby tion—we’re an ad-hoc grassroots movement. Ev- to act fast. people in power individually? erything’s changed. The Internet provides whole www.WindyCityQueercast.com Windy City Times: Let’s discuss the upcom- CJ: We’re doing both. They are not mutually Turn to page 6 ing Equality March on Washington, which is exclusive. If we want to win we have to do ev- AUTOSINSURANCEDENTISTSHAIRSALONS FLOORINGINSURANCEBANKINGGETTRAVEL IT ALL LEGALSERVICESBOOKSTORESELECTRICIANS PHOTOGRAPHERSRESTAURANTSCONTRACTORSonline nnn%N`e[p:`kpD\[`X>iflg%Zfd 2 July 15, 2009 July 15, 2009 3 index Margo M. Jacquot Psy.D., CSADC, BCETS NEWS Congressman & DADT repeal 4 National roundup 5 Helping the LGBTQ Reflecting on visiting Obama 6 communities create Cleve Jones talks 6 Lesbian’s company claims 7 better, more ful lling Parade attendee arrested 7 lives and relationships Deaf confab earns raves 8 McRaith, Webber 8 Living with Pride: the latest 9 Quotelines 9 Views: Monroe, Ambery 10 Local queer musician Martha Berner (above) reflects with Windy City Times ENTERTAINMENT before taking the stage July 18 at Scottish Play Scott 11 Chickago Social. See page 14. Theater reviews 12 Margaret Cho 14 Martha Berner 14 KATM: Summer; Dead Snow 15 Rupert Kinnard interview 16 Birth; anniversaries 18 Improving intimacy Repairing relationships Billy Masters 20 Books: Terry Galloway talks 21 Healing from abuse, trauma, addiction, anxiety, depression, uncertainty about sexuality, loss of a relationship OUTLINES Calendar 18 Real estate; classifieds 19 North and Northwest Suburbs Sports: Penn State film 22 Sports: John Amaechi 22 Openly gay former NBA player John Amaechi (above) talks about basketball Cover photos and credits (from top): 2009 Rainbow and the upcoming Outgames. See page www.junipercenterchicago.com Alliance of the Deaf conference by Kim Kuhns; President 22. Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama by Naomi T. Saks; Margaret Cho courtesy of Lifetime Television Photo courtesy of Fifteen Minutes PR 847-759-9110, ext.1

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July 8, 2009 THE #992 ‘heather’ or not LADIES Dana Rudolph (right) ON THEIR talks with Leslea MOTOR- Newman—author of CYCLES Heather Has Two The Ladies on Their Motorcycles AKA Dykes on Bikes at this year’s Pride Parade. Mommies—about her page 16-17 inSIDE Pride Fest. Black Pride Poetry Slam. page 12 page 8 newest books.

HUNK ROCK WELCOMES MISS CLEO Hunky singer and TO THE QUEERCAST former Instinct cover FAMILY! model Yehonathan Gatro (left) discusses www.WindyCity muggings, men and, of Queercast.com course, music.

Photo courtesy of Yehonathan Gatro

it’s ‘electric’ TVN Singer/actress Deborah QueerTVNetwork.com Gibson—who dominated the ‘80s music charts with songs like “Electric Check out our Youth”—talks with Jerry video channel for Nunn. new videos weekly www.QueerTV Network.com 4 July 15, 2009 in Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2003, lost his leg Murphy to lead in service to his country. He subsequently came out publicly as gay. He said, “When I went to repeal of DADT fight the war on terrorism, it was for the rights and freedoms of every single person in this by Bob Roehr country, not just selected individuals.”

Genevieve Chase is a straight ally who served Repeal of the antigay military policy known as in Afghanistan and is executive director of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” (DADT) has a new cham- American Women Veterans. “I trained and served pion in the halls of Congress. Rep. Patrick Mur- with countless gays and lesbians;” those who phy, D-Penn., agreed to take over as lead spon- chose to be open about their sexual orientation sor of the legislation. had absolutely no impact on unit cohesion. He faced reporters at the National Press Club She said, “Dishonesty within our ranks is what July 8 at the launch of a national tour by LGBT destroys the cohesion of our armed forces and vets and their straight allies to build support for our team.” What mattered is how you did your repeal. The effort is known as “Voices of Honor: job. A Generation Under ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell.’” The baby-faced Murphy, seemingly not long removed from his altar boy past, served in Iraq Mass. sues federal with the 82nd Airborne Division and taught con- stitutional law at West Point. He aggressively (From left) Genevieve Chase, Eric Alva and Rep. Patrick Murphy at the DADT press conference. gov’t over DOMA took on supporters of DADT at a congressional Photo by Bob Roehr Massachusetts Attorney General Martha Coak- hearing last year and showed a firm determina- ing on repeal later this year. The earlier hearing repeal as an amendment on a military authoriza- ley has filed a lawsuit against the federal govern- tion to repeal the policy as soon as possible. had been in a subcommittee. tion bill. He is not a member of that committee ment over the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA), “Our troops are fighting in Iraq and Afghani- He said when many of his colleagues come to and deferred to chairman Louise Slaughter, D- Advocate.com reported. Coakley has argued that stan and are stretched dangerously thin,” Mur- realize that it costs about $60,000 to recruit N.Y. DOMA, which was enacted in 1996, interferes phy said. The 13,000 discharges under DADT and put a single soldier through basic training, “I cannot tell you how long this is going to with the state’s ability to define and regulate “are the equivalent of three and a half combat then they start to see the policy in a different take, all I can tell you is that paratroopers don’t marriage. brigades. ... The policy is not working for our light. Many have told him that while they will quite, and paratroopers get the job done,” Mur- This lawsuit, which names the United States armed services and it hurts our national secu- not join as one of the current 151 co-sponsors, phy said. He has foregone wearing the lapel pin and the Secretaries and Departments of Veterans rity.” they will vote for repeal. that identifies him as a congressman in order to affairs and Health and Human Services as defen- “To remove honorable, talented, and commit- Murphy does not believe there will be prob- wear a pin of the 82nd Airborne, in honor of the dants, is the first time a state has challenged ted Americans from serving in our military is lems implementing a repeal once it is passed. He 19 comrades who died in Iraq. the federal government’s discriminatory treat- contrary to the values that our military holds said, “Our military will do what is asked of them. ment of its LGBT citizens, according to a state- dear.” ... They will salute the flag and perform the mis- Voices of honor ment from the Human Rights Campaign (HRC). He noted that American attitudes have sion given to them. ... It is not rocket science, Also speaking at the news conference were In that same statement, HRC President Joe changed towards gays and lesbians. Polls show it is treating people with honor and dignity, and some of the vets who will be hitting the ground Solmonese praised Coakley’s decision. The Com- that more than two-thirds support allowing gays they are already doing that.” over the next two months to tell their stories of monwealth has presented the court with the to serve openly in the armed forces. The per- He said Obama has been very clear: “Give me a living under DADT. stark facts of discrimination that should finally centage is even higher “among the age bracket bill and I’ll sign it.” Alex Nicholson, executive director of the LGBT spell the end of DOMA,” said Human Rights Cam- that we are recruiting.” Murphy wants to proceed as quickly as pos- vets group Servicemembers United, said he was paign President Joe Solmonese. “Excluding our Murphy said Congress passed DADT and it is sible but he refused to state a timetable, saying, forced out of the Army two months after 9/11, families from equal protections never had any- their responsibility to repeal it. He was encour- “I’m not the speaker of the House; I can’t put it despite the fact that he was a human intelli- thing to do with promoting a legitimate inter- aged by the fact that House Armed Services on the docket.” gence officer who spoke five languages, includ- est, and has everything to do with discrimina- Committee chairman Ike Skelton, D-Mo., recent- He also sidestepped a question on the recent ing Arabic. tion.” ly committed to holding a full committee hear- decision by the Rules Committee not to allow Marine Sgt. Eric Alva, the first soldier wounded July 15, 2009 5 In New York, CenterLink: The Community ruling from Judge Phillips gives us ample space NATIONAL of LGBT Centers has announced that its first to make our arguments in ways that other legal annual LGBT Center Awareness Day will take challenges against ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell’ have ROUNDUP place Sept. 15, complete with a launch of a not been able to.” BY ANDREW DAVIS new Web site at MyCenterLink.org and an up- Lesbian writer Mary Wilbon died June 26 dated online LGBT community-center directory, after a short illness, according to OutInJer- Sirdeaner Walker—the mother of Carl Walk- according to a press release. The theme of this sey.net. She was the author of two acclaimed er-Hoover, an 11-year-old who committed year’s LGBT Center Awareness Day is “My Com- mysteries, Naughty Little Secrets and One Last suicide in April after constant anti-gay bul- munity Center Changed My Life,” showcasing the Kiss, and was passionate about actress Greta lying at school—testified in front of the House vital role that community centers play in the Garbo, pets and her politics, KensingtonBooks. Subcommittees on Early Childhood, Elementary health, empowerment and unity of all LGBT com- com stated. Wilbon wanted donations sent to munities. the Human Rights Campaign and local chapters and Secondary Education and Healthy Families Sen. Al Franken. and Communities in order to support the Safe Twenty-six AIDS activists were arrested af- of the ASPCA. Schools Improvement Act, according to a South- ter chaining themselves to each other in the In South Carolina, Stephen Andrew Moller has that the Brewer School District fired her because ern Voice item. Walker said, in part, “What could Capitol Rotunda July 9, according to RollCall. been released from prison early after serving of her sexual orientation while District Super- make a child his age despair so much that he com. The group was protesting President Ba- a year for killing Sean Kennedy, a gay man, intendent Daniel Lee contends that she was let would take his own life? That question haunts rack Obama’s failure to void a ban on funding according to WYFF4.com. Moller was convicted go because she was involved in hazing and did me to this day, and I will probably never know needle-exchange programs. The activists—who of manslaughter in June 2008 after Kennedy fell not provide “a balanced sports program for the the answer.” came from various groups—were yelling “clean and hit his head on the pavement while Moller team.” Skip Estes, a heterosexual male, replaced needles save lives” while being handcuffed. attacked him, causing a fatal brain injury. In Cookson. The Log Cabin Republicans can move for- a statement, Human Rights Campaign President Sen. Al Franken, D-Minn., has been sworn ward with its lawsuit challenging “Don’t Ask, Joe Solmonese said, “To release a man just one in, and said that he is ready to get on with Don’t Tell (DADT),” according to an organiza- year after his sentencing in this heinous crime business, according to USA Today. Franken told tional press release. Last month, Judge Virginia and to inform the victim’s mother through an the media that he wants to be known as the A. Phillips of the Central District of California automated recording is despicable.” senator from Minnesota, not the 60th Democrat- denied the U.S. government’s attempt to dis- In Maine, a lower-court jury will now deter- ic vote in the Senate. Last week, the Minnesota miss the group’s suit that labels DADT as uncon- mine if high school softball coach Kelly Jo Supreme Court upheld a lower-court ruling that stitutional. Log Cabin Republicans spokesman Cookson was fired because she is a lesbian, made Franken the winner over Norm Coleman. Charles T. Moran said, “We are confident that the according to Advocate.com. Cookson alleges

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CLEVE from cover Chicagoans at the LGBT reception at the White House. Photo courtesy of Mona Noriega new ways of organizing efficiently and without spending money. I think some groups are just say that it was a dream come true, as I could having trouble adjusting to this new reality. Chicagoans not have dreamed that one day I would be at And I’m sure they’re going to come around, as an LGBT reception at the White House at a Pride have many of the bloggers originally opposed Month celebration. to the idea. It’s not Lollapalooza, it’s not a reflect on “It was really awesome to be there with so fundraiser or a circuit party. It’s a march and many peers who are activists from all over the rally [involving] very little money. And we’re White House country. Please understand that I came out in going to use it as a vehicle for building some the fall of 1969. The president and first lady were new structures for grassroots organizing and I visit more than gracious, and the president called me would challenge those who don’t think it’s a by ANDREW DAVIS out and shook my hand. It was very exciting good idea to come up with something better and, for a moment, I felt like teenager and did and do it.” Several Chicagoans experienced the meeting of a not want anyone to then touch the hand that WCT: What is Obama doing? I fail to un- lifetime when they met President Barack Obama had shaken the hand of the first Black president derstand how this intelligent man can call and First Lady Michelle Obama June 29 at a spe- of the United States.” DOMA [the Defense of Marriage Act] a “neu- cial LGBT reception in the White House. Reflecting further, Gray said, “How could I—as tral” policy but then admit he can’t institute Renae Ogletree, one of the attendees, relat- a colored, Negro child— ever think that a Black health benefits to federal employees’ part- Cleve Jones. Photo from Lawrence Ferber ed to Windy City Times, “My visit to the White man would one day be the president. Please ners specifically because of DOMA. House was something that I never dreamed that understand that I recall so clearly the death of CJ: I’m in no position to understand what’s WCT: Are you feeling hate or love towards I would do and will live in my memory for many Emmet Till, and the day James Meridith tried to going through the president’s mind on this is- Perez now? years to come. I went to the home of the presi- enter the University of Mississsippi. I recall the sue but I’m profoundly disappointed and am CJ: I’m not going to touch that. dent of the United States as the person that governor of Alabama, George Wallace, saying, determined to do everything I can to help our WCT: What’s going on with the AIDS I truly am: an African-American lesbian who ‘Segregation now today and forever.’ community take advantage of this unique mo- Quilt? works in the field of education as an advocate “Back to the White House: It was lovely to ment in history. People need to wake up. A CJ: That’s another issue entirely. I haven’t of young people of all origins. Add that to the be able to share the experience with lifelong door has opened to us and if we push really been involved in the NAMES Project for years fact that I’ve known the Obamas since he began friends. The food, by the way, was awesome and hard we can win full, real equality. Not just and I would like to see the quilt used more ag- his run for the Senate and that—in spite of all I ate and drank champagne and ate some more. marriage equality or visitation rights. Actual gressively as a prevention education tool and the thousands of people they know—[they] re- ... Such blessings in my life. [June 28], I was equality. But that door is already swinging I’m frustrated by the lack of initiative from the membered that I am a lung cancer survivor and at my 39th Pride celebration; [June 29] I was shut. We have to move swiftly. people who control the quilt today. always inquire about my health, gives me a very at a Pride celebration at the White House; and One other thing I want to put out there to WCT: What else should be on our activism personal feeling about the leader of our coun- [June 30] I was at Mayor Daley’s Pride recep- your readers is they should go online and read checklist right now? try. tion!!!! What blessings in my life. I wish [late the 14th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. CJ: We should be working very hard to Ogletree added, “On the political front I was gay-rights activist] Barbara Gittings could have They should read the clause that refers to equal strengthen the coalition between the LGBT and continued to be inspired by the president been there.” protection under the law. Every claim we make movement and the labor movement. I work for and Mrs. Obama’s leadership. I don’t know why Mike Bauer also attended the White House for equality is based on the 14th Amendment. a labor union called Unite Here—www.unite- our community expects the President to undo in reception. He told Windy City Times that “[i]t It was passed on July 9th, 141 years ago, so if here.org—we represent hotel workers, abso- eight months what it took the Republicans eight was quite a group lining up on the east side of people want to move quickly and not wait for lutely committed to equality for LGBT people. years to construct. For the past eight years we the White House on June 29 to enter for the the march I would suggest they download and We’re leading the fight to boycott the Man- had no voice and certainly no LGBT reception LGBT reception that the president and first lady print a copy of the 14th Amendment and walk chester Grand Hyatt Hotel in San Diego, which celebrating Stonewall or anything else about our were having in honor of the 40th anniversary into their member of Congress’ district office gave a large amount of money to put Prop 8 on lives. I think that we need to give his adminis- of the Stonewall riots. The crowd included LGBT on July 9th with it and ask their representative the ballot. Check out sleepwiththerightpeople. tration more time to develop not only the policy persons appointed to positions in the adminis- or staff to support this. This is in the Consti- org and stay in touch with NationalEquality- but the mechanisms to ensure that the policies tration such as Fred Hochberg, John Berry and tution and guarantees me and my family full March.com. And read up on the 14th Amend- will be implemented and monitored as they need Mary Beth Maxwell; heads of LGBT organizations equality. Do you support it or not? ment and go into congressional offices on July to be. I was and remain a very proud supporter including Joe Solmonese from Human Rights WCT: Has Milk and its visibility given you a 9 and understand how the Constitution should of the President and Mrs. Obama. Campaign, Rea Carey from the National Gay and boost as far as being able to make demands already be protecting our rights. Vernita Gray, a Black lesbian who has been out Lesbian Task Force, Kevin Cathcart from Lambda and do things effectively as an activist? WCT: And any last thoughts for the young since the late ‘60s, added, “First of all, I cannot Legal and Kate Kendall from the National Center CJ: Of course. Very helpful. More than what queers? it’s done for me is what it’s done to inform CJ: I remember this from when I was 17—a young people about the history of our move- lot of gay kids are really frightened of getting ment. They’re inspired and a lot of us older old. It’s one of the big lies they tell us over and people are reminded what we did in the past over about why you don’t want to be queer, and is now possible. because your life is going to be boring and WCT: I have to touch on one awkward is- pathetic. I remember when I was young look- sue, which is the very private photos that ing at the older queens with their potbellies emerged online of [Oscar-winning screen- and sagging faces and wrinkles thinking, well, writer Dustin Lance Black, who had bare- that can’t be that much fun. And I want to say backing photos of him recently surface]. Do I’m going to be 55 soon, I’m getting old and you feel this has undermined, or affects his got a pot belly and sagging, wrinkled face but credibility and ability to get through impor- this has been the best two years of my life. I’ve tant doors? never had so much fun. CJ: Of course not. WCT: Fortunately, now we have daddy and WCT: What has been the most surreal mo- bear-chaser Web sites. ment involving the Hollywood aspect of CJ: Thank God. [Laughs] Yeah—life is good, Milk? and I want everybody to fight really hard right CJ: Probably the most surreal moment was now because I think we’re going to win. Left: First Lady Michelle Obama and Jane Saks. Right: Renae Ogletree, Mary Morten and Vernita when I found myself at a party seated in be- Gray (from left). Left photo by Naomi T. Saks; right photo by Willa Taylor tween Perez Hilton and Mick Jagger. July 15, 2009 7 have been waiting for the company to respond The summit begins Friday, Aug. 14, with a day to the charges, which they have yet to do. The devoted specifically to the bisexual community. communication between Valenziano and her Saturday, Aug. 15, kicks off the full LGBTI Health manager stopped. Instant messaging, a vital Summit, which continues through Tues., Aug. part of her company, ceased when they most 18. The conference site is the Chicago Hilton likely realized she was printing them off. Calls and Towers, 720 S. Michigan. were never returned. There was almost no con- Registration for all five days is $200, and tact with the manager of her manager. And then includes continental breakfast and lunch her performance evaluation came in this past every day, plus special amenities like free- March. chair massages and fun social activities. See “It was one of the worst performance evalua- www.2009lgbtihealth.org. tions I’ve ever had. Along with that I received the largest bonus I’ve ever received,” said Valen- Local model/singer ziano. “The evaluation mentioned my devotion Lawrence Perea. to the job.” fundraising for HRC Ronnie Kroell—a local model/singer, reality- Within two weeks of the performance review, As police officers and firefighters approached the TV veteran (Make Me a Supermodel) and former Valenziano was put on corrective action, which person who was down, Perea allegedly contin- Betty Tsamis. Photo by Natalie Marionneaux Windy City Times 30 Under 30 honoree—is try- meant that she had 30 days to improve whatever ued his rants and behavior, leading police (who ing to raise at least $7,500 for the Human Rights had been listed on her evaluation as poor or she thought he would impede their efforts to help Campaign. faced termination. The mention of devotion was the other person) to arrest him. Kroell is holding a contest through his Web Lesbian files removed from the copy of the evaluation she re- This account differs markedly from earlier site, www.RonnieKroell.com, in which prizes in- ceived after protesting the corrective action. reports that Perea was arrested after allegedly clude a trip to New York City (and a dinner date against United “We rebutted the evaluation with documenta- soaking people, including police officers, with with him) as well as pants signed by Kroell and tion, and when I got the coy it was the same an unidentified green substance and causing a singer Lady Gaga. Health Care issues I had rebutted still on there. At the end panic. by WES LAWSON of the 30 days, the manager indicated that she Perea, charged with reckless conduct, is had to go to HR and decide what to do, but I scheduled to appear in misdemeanor court Aug. Laura Valenziano has been an employee of Unit- knew that at the end of 30 days, it was either 13 and Belmont and Western, Fitzpatrick said. ed Health Care for 18 years, and a manager for firing, 30 more days, or getting off of correc- Perea, a member of the Chicago Commission 15 of them. But in the last year, that status has tive action,” said Valenziano. On the day of the on Human Relations’ Advisory Council on LGBT steadily changed, and has lead to her filing a interview, Valenziano also said that her manager Issues, was named one of Windy City Times’ 30 lawsuit against the company through the Illi- had said she hadn’t successfully completed the Under 30 honorees earlier last month. nois Department of Human Rights. With the as- 30 days, which she has rebutted. sistance of her lawyer, Betty Tsamis, she hopes Both Tsamis and Valenziano mentioned that it to prove that what her company has done is in seems ridiculous that someone at the company Health summit basic violation of Illinois laws that prevent dis- for less than five years is suddenly Valenziano’s Aug. 14-18 crimination on the basis of sexual orientation boss. Organizers of the 2009 National LGBTI Health and gender identity. “The 30-day charge came immediately after we Summit announced that, in collaboration with Valenziano said that the problems began in filed the case. It indicates that management is the Bisexual Health Summit, close to 100 work- March 2008, when there was a re-organization angry with the employee for whatever reason. shops, plenaries and town halls will be offered within the company and she got a new manager. Why, after 18 years, is Laura suddenly a bad em- at this year’s event. An array of topics will be Because she is largely a telecommuter, it seemed ployee?” said Tsamis. covered, including the aging of the Stonewall everything was going well. One of the problems Valenziano thinks is oc- generation, new HIV-prevention technologies, Ronnie Kroell. “He called me constantly for information and curring is that no one is talking to each other. intimate partner violence, transgender health- thoughts, because I was well-versed,” Valenzia- She sent an email to her colleagues, some of care, biphobia and body image. no said. whom were working with the company’s diver- In May 2008, she finally had the opportunity sity inclusion council to get an LGBT group char- Free Kitchen Design With This Ad to meet him in Orlando, where other meetings ter, and let them know the situation, because Offer expires 7/15/09 were supposed to follow. After the initial meet- she and Tsamis fear that her involvement in this ing with the manager, the other meetings never case could be detrimental to the group. materialized. She was in Orlando for no more Ultimately, Tsamis and Valenziano hope to re- than three hours. solve this without having a long and protracted “After that, it seemed as though the relation- court battle. ship prior to the meeting began to deteriorate. “We hope that they do the right thing and We had a good report, but all of a sudden, noth- make this win-win for everyone, with respect to ing I was doing was correct,” said Valenziano. Laura,” said Tsamis. In this time, Valenziano mentioned that the Jeff Smith, of United Health Care’s communi- manager began to poke around and ask her team cations department, e-mailed Windy City Times about her partner of 19 years, who answered the that “[w]hile we cannot comment on the spe- telephone one day while Valenziano was out. cifics of this case, we can confirm our strong Valenziano is one of the few people who is out policy against discrimination and retaliation in in the department, and was surprised that the the workplace. It is significant that the Human manager was asking who her partner was. Rights Campaign (HRC), a nonprofit that works “Around the end of August, I was going to lose to achieve equality for LGBT people, has award- Family owned and operated my team, and my responsibilities shifted,” said ed UnitedHealth Group (our corporate parent) with over 27 years of Valenziano. “This was different because I was a score of 95 percent on its Corporate Equality experience going to have someone reporting to me with Index, which rates companies on how they treat their team, and now it was something com- LGBT employees, consumers and investors. Our A great design showroom, pletely different. In mid-September, I called HR, company also takes a strong stand on its em- showcasing the latest from all and they seemed sympathetic at first. I set up ployment practices for diverse age groups and the major manufacturers a meeting with them and the manager, and it is a key partner with AARP in its efforts to en- sure access to affordable and quality health care seemed as though they were on his side. They Quality materials and for seniors.” wanted me to craft a new position for myself. installations at very A younger man was the new leader of my team, competitive prices and he was supposed to be under me, but then my team was shifted under him. I thought it Parade attendee All projects come with a full might be a coincidence, but they were doing the arrested for same job they were doing with me. It got to the warranty point where I was totally fed up. Everything I reckless conduct had afforded my employees up to that point had BY ANDREW DAVIS In-home estimates free of not been afforded to me, and everything I had charge A 29-year-old man was arrested at the Pride Pa- been taught to do was not being done for me.” Proud members of At this point Valenziano contacted Tsamis, rade after he allegedly concerned police with his who did not initially want to bring the matter to words and behavior. a lawsuit. According to Michael Fitzpatrick of the Chi- “We took a conciliatory position,” Tsamis said. cago Police Department, “a person was down” “We wanted to settle without legal action, and at 3507 N. Halsted on June 28, the day of the we followed that intent until Laura was backed Pride Parade. Lawrence Perea of the 4200 block (847) 296-5500 against a wall and had to file charges.” of North Sheridan reportedly yelled, “Fuck the After filing the claim, Valenziano and Tsamis Chicago police” and made an obscene gesture. www.prestigerenovation.com 8 July 15, 2009 consists of bisexual, lesbian and gay interpreters and girl began their research online and found and translators. The chairperson of this group themselves falling in love with the genre. They is Amanda David. Other presenters included RAD actually fell into the computer and found them- president Larry Pike from Colorado. Other high- selves transported back in time to the silent film lights included a gallery showing of deaf LGBT era of the ‘20s where they met Charlie Chaplin. artists. This event was packed for the gallery The video continued to show the boy, girl and and auction. There was also a community cel- Chaplin interacting in this silent era, and the ebration for the Center on Halsted.” movie ended as the three characters came out Chicago’s Matt Lieberman won Mr. RAD, while on stage. The three actors then became the Alan SPO of Hollywood won Miss RAD. (master of ceremonies) for the evening’s events. “I’ve been planning this event for four years,” There was a lot of humor involved with their Rodgers said. “There was a 20-person committee characters and Charlie Chaplin, because a deaf that worked under me and Vicki Kirkpatrick, the audience really loves Charlie Chaplin. He’s very co-chair of the event. It was very tough because visual and used a lot of physical humor. During of the economy for the past couple years, [so] the silent-film era, voices were not used and so we didn’t have many sponsors. Most of the dona- the deaf audience can really connect with that tions were in-kind donations, so we really had era. In the past, the closing ceremonies of RAD to get creative with the financial end of things, tend to be very dry and humorless. We handed Left: Mr. Rad 2009 (Matt Lieberman) and Miss Rad 2009 (Alan SPO). Right: The 2009 Rainbow and we felt the struggle involved with that. We out awards and did the traditional ceremony, but Alliance of the Deaf conference. Left photo by Vinny Valdez; right photo by Mike Goddard initially had had visions of extravagance and we added our own brand of humor and brought luxury, but we had to modify those plans a bit an added dimension to the ceremony that hasn’t was, remarking on the cleanliness and beauty of to account for the difficult economy. But fortu- been seen in the past.” Rad reviews the city.” nately we were pleasantly surprised because the Rodgers did not have an exact attendance to- committee became very creative in figuring out for the tal “but it exceeded our expectations,” he said. how to make wonderful, quality, decorations on About one-third of attendees were female. There a minimal budget. There was a lot of simplicity were a few bisexuals and a few transgender in- involved, but it was very nice. Everything worked RAD confab dividuals from other countries. There were also out very well. It seemed to match the vision we by ROSS FORMAN several deaf/blind participants. There were many originally had in our minds when we first started

hearing people who attended, either partners or this four years ago. It showed us we don’t need Raymond Rodgers was a mix of smiles and tears friends. Even some family members, parents and a lot of money but it’s more about the heart of after the Rainbow Alliance of the Deaf (RAD) siblings enjoyed themselves as well. Attendees the committee, the motivation and innovation Conference wrapped its five-day show in Chicago ranged in age from 18 to 80. involved with putting this event together. July 4. “There were many highlights, but [one of] the “And fortunately we had about 50 volunteers Of course, those were tears of joy. most spectacular was [the appearance by] Cleve working together. Before the conference we “In one word, fabulous,” Rodgers said of the Mike McRaith. Jones, founder of the AIDS Memorial Quilt, or- faced so many unexpected problems, such as a event. “Everything worked out flawlessly. Many ganizer of March on Washington in October and couple committee members backing out at the people were saying it was one of the best con- portrayed by Emile Hirsch in the recent block- last minute, so we had to figure out how to re- ferences ever. Everyone seemed very happy and McRaith named to buster movie Milk,” Rodgers said. “Mr. Jones solve that, but luckily it all worked out and as satisfied with the conference itself. A lot of appeared at the opening ceremonies, and really the time got closer, all the issues we were facing head insurance dept. celebrations were very exciting and fascinating, gave positive energy and motivation to every- resolved themselves in time for the conference. On July 6, Illinois Gov. Pat Quinn named Mi- mesmerizing, better than most of the celebra- one in the audience. He inspired awareness in The committee was wonderful, flexible and pa- chael McRaith, an openly gay man, as the direc- tions in past conferences. All workshop present- our gay, lesbian and transgender audience mem- tient. They worked tirelessly to make the event tor of the newly created Department of Insur- ers were amazing and incredible.” bers that truly invoked a spirit of advocacy and a success. We’re still shocked, and though many ance. As a result of Governor Quinn’s Executive Rodgers is the CEO/president of Chicago-based support for our movement. minor issues popped up, the outside person Order 4, the Department of Insurance (DOI) sep- Deaf Communication By Innovation (DCI), and “Another wonderful presenter was Colin Allen saw a wonderful event that ran flawlessly. Right arated from the Illinois Department of Financial the co-chairman (with Vicki Kirkpatrick) for the from Australia. He is a board member on the now everyone on the committee is physically, and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) June 1. event. World Federation of the Deaf (WFD). He gave mentally and emotionally worn out, but we’re While previously serving as director of the Di- “We were surprised at how successful the presentations on different issues all over the incredibly happy with the overall result.” vision of Insurance and Acting Secretary of ID- event was. Fortunately, we did break even with world related to deaf, LGBT and general human The 2011 RAD Conference will be held in Den- FPR, McRaith assisted in developing and advo- our finances. We thought we would lose money rights. WFD announced as well that they are ver, Colo. cating for health insurance modernization both on the event, but we did end up breaking even,” working tirelessly on setting up the world’s first “I think the (attendees) really enjoyed and in Illinois and on the national level. Rodgers said. “The best part for us was seeing official International Deaf LGBT conference in laughed at the deaf Charlie Chaplin during the In addition, Quinn has asked Brent Adams— the people really happy with the event. Witness- South Africa. Additionally there was a represen- closing ceremonies,” Rodgers said. “DCI pro- also openly gay—to serve as Acting Secretary ing the success of the overall experience for the tative from the National Association of the Deaf duced a video that consisted of a young boy of Financial and Professional Regulation. The attendants was wonderful. On the last day, Sun- [NAD], Gleena Cooper, who made a special an- and girl, both deaf, who were acting as interns department deals with institutions ranging from day, after closing ceremonies, nobody wanted to nouncement that NAD has recently established a for the WCRAD conference. Vicki and myself ap- banks to pharmacies (and associated issues, leave. They wanted the event to continue, so task force focusing on LGBT issues in America. proached them and asked them to research the such as birth-control prescriptions). that was a true mark of success. The attendants The Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf has ad- Roaring ‘20s for the closing ceremonies. The boy also agreed on how wonderful a city Chicago ditionally set up a group called BLeGIT, which Webber named Success of the Year Chicago entrepreneur and out lesbian Christy Webber was presented the 2009 Small Business Wed., July 22 Administration’s Entrepreneurial Success of the 7:30 p.m. Year award June 25. This award is given each Judith Koll Healey year by the U.S. Small Business Administration The Rebel Princess during Small Business Week to “recognize the accomplishments of outstanding Illinois small Friday, July 24 business owners.” 7:30 p.m. Among the criteria the judges used to deter- Stephanie Kuehnert mine the honoree were staying power, growth in the number of employees, innovativeness of the Book Release Party Have your product or service offered and contributions to Ballads of Suburbia premiums community-oriented projects. increased

5233 N. Clark recently? (773) 769-9299 See me: Charles T. Rhodes, Agent 2472 N. Clark [email protected] 773.281.0890 www.womenandchildrenfirst.com State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company Parking Available (not in NJ) Wheelchair Accessible State Farm Indemnity Company (NJ) Christy Webber. Photo by Cathy Seabaugh Home Offices: Bloomington, Illinois July 15, 2009 9 LGBT recovery house fights QUOTELINES to survive BY REX WOCKNER by SAM WORLEY

Living with Pride, a sober living space tailored Q “I’ve heard from readers, mostly gay specifically to the needs of LGBT people, may men, who wonder why their local gay paper “Obama has long been, as he says, a have to close next month, pending a decision Claudia Mosier. Photo by Sam Worley has vacuumed sex out of the pages and treats fierce advocate for gay equality. The by the city zoning commissioner. The house has group home”—in which residents could stay for gay life as if it’s more like an ethnic identity Windy City Times has reported that he ini- been open only since March 1—and, with eight an open-ended period of time—and was there- than a sexual identity. They feel increasingly tially endorsed legalizing same-sex marriage residents, is already full—but complaints from fore zoned correctly. Neighbors, and ultimately alienated from the leadership and commenta- when running for the Illinois State Senate in members of its North Center neighborhood have city zoning commissioner Patricia Scudiero, tors. Though gay men are half our movement, 1996. The most common rationale for his cur- mired the house in controversy since its incep- claimed that it was a “transitional” home, and they often feel like their issues have been put rent passivity is that his plate is too full. But tion. therefore required a special-use permit. on the back burner by the major queer politi- the president has so far shown an impressive And though the house has only existed for a While Mosier appeals the decision, Living with cal groups and newspapers, even as they’re ex- inclination both to multitask and to argue matter of months, it is the culmination of a long Pride continues to house its eight residents. pected to pay much of the cost of keeping the passionately for bedrock American principles process for its founder and executive director, House members keep a garden in the backyard, organizations, the court cases and the lobbying when he wants to. Relegating fundamental Dr. Claudia Mosier. In the 1990s, Mosier and a attend work or school, volunteer or participate in going. We try not to do that at Pink Triangle constitutional rights to the bottom of the pile group of people she worked with at the Chicago intensive recovery services; the house planned a Press, where we make an effort to remember until some to-be-determined future seems like Lakeshore Hospital opened a group of sober liv- sober barbecque on the day of the Chicago Pride that at its root, ours is a struggle for sexual a shell game.” — New York Times columnist ing apartments on Jarvis Avenue. Parade. Living with Pride also hosted 12-step freedom.” — Gareth Kirkby, editor in chief of Frank Rich, May 23. Up until that point, she said, those working meetings for the first few months of its exis- The Guide magazine, to the with LGBT people who struggled with substance tence, but, in an effort to placate neighbors’ gay press newsletter Press abuse “had about a death a month”—the out- concerns, no longer does. Pass Q, June issue. Pink come of insufficient support leading to relapse. The protocols reflect the unique niche filled Triangle Press also owns When the apartments opened, the death rate by Living with Pride, as a place catering both the Canadian chain of Xtra! plummeted, highlighting the importance of cul- You can’t to LGBT people and to those who struggle with newspapers. turally specific treatment for people who might substance abuse. The introduction to the sexual treat people not feel comfortable in traditional sober spac- conduct policy, for instance, highlights this: “The way that same- differently. es. “Sexuality is a precious aspect of life,” it reads. sex marriage should When the apartments moved farther west, to It’s “We work hard to come out and to claim our sex- reach the federal level is Pulaski and Fullerton, Mosier started looking for unconstitutional. uality but so often trauma, chemical dependency that it absolutely should a more central location from which residents —Tony Kushner and associated behaviors damage our sexuality. be decided by the Supreme could have easier access to medical services and The rules and suggestions in this policy are in Court as ... a 14th Amend- 12-step meetings. She acquired nonprofit status place to help heal damage done to sexuality and ment issue. There’s no ar- for Living with Pride three years ago, and began to help residents envision and eventually obtain gument about it. We are fundraising and looking for a suitable house. a healthy [and] fulfilling sexual/romantic life.” citizens of the United States. Citizens of the In February, she found a two-story house on Mosier and her residents allege that a series of United States are guaranteed equal protection “As anger at White House missteps the 2500 block of West Collum Avenue—close to complaints escalated into what they describe as under the law by the 14th Amendment, and boiled over this month, the president public transportation, with an agreeable land- “a campaign of harassment”—one woman, said that’s the end of ... the discussion. You can’t abruptly staged a ceremony to offer some lord and a garden in the backyard. She signed Mosier, stood in the alley and yelled at neigh- treat people differently. It’s unconstitutional.” crumbs. The pretext was the signing of an a lease and opened the doors March 1. In an bors in the yard, saying, “I wanted to see what — Playwright Tony Kushner to CNN, June 15. executive memorandum bestowing benefits effort to establish a presence in the commu- an addict looks like.” to the domestic partners of federal employ- nity, Mosier met with 47th Ward Alderman Gene Schulter said that neighborhood problems “Anyone with half a brain in the in- ees. But some of those benefits were already Schulter, hosted an open house and sent a letter could have been avoided if Mosier had done a credibly shrinking G.O.P. knows that gay in force, and the most important of them all, to neighbors introducing herself and her proj- better job introducing herself and her residents bashing will further dim the party’s already health care, was not included because it is for- ect. to the community prior to moving in. remote chance of recruiting young voters to bidden by DOMA.” — New York Times columnist She began to have trouble immediately. The hearing for Living with Pride’s appeal is replenish its aging ranks, much as the right’s Frank Rich, June 27. Although neighbors have complained—and, set for July 17. More information on the house immigrant bashing drove away Hispanics. This according to Mosier, engaged in behavior toward can be found at www.livingwithpride.org. is why Republican politicians now say they op- “Obama’s inaction on gay civil rights her residents akin to harassment—zoning regu- Read the entire article online at www. pose only gay marriage, not gay people, even is striking. So is his utterly uncharacteristic lations proved to be the primary sticking point. WindyCityMediaGroup.com. when it’s blatant that they’re dissembling. inarticulateness. The Justice Department brief Mosier said that when she researched the issue Naked homophobia—those campy, fear-mon- defending DOMA has spoken louder for this prior to opening Living with Pride, she felt con- gering National Organization for Marriage ads, president than any of his own words on the fident50515 thatHC_WindyTimesAd_5x4.5:Layout the house qualified as a “community 1 7/10/09 11:01 AM Page 1 for instance—is increasingly unwelcome in a subject.” — New York Times columnist Frank party fighting for survival. The wingnuts don’t Rich, June 27. even have Dick Cheney on their side on this is- sue.” — New York Times columnist Frank Rich, “There’s a perception in Washington May 23. that you can throw little bits of partial equality to gay people and that gay people “Who could have imagined that the will be satisfied with that.” — Oscar-winning GLBT community would even notice a Jus- “Milk” screenwriter Dustin Lance Black to The tice Department brief on an obscure case, let New York Times, June 27. alone arise as one in full-throated condemna- tion? The simple fact of that reaction, quite “I am convinced that the White House aside from our specific objections to the brief, needs to know that if it’s only communicat- led the administration to understand one im- ing with HRC, it’s not communicating with the Iowa’s OUTDOOR Destination. portant thing that they didn’t understand be- gay community.” — Gay blogger Andrew Sul- fore. To wit, they don’t understand us. I know livan taking a shot at the Human Rights Cam- Honey Creek Resort State Park is a superb and elegant meeting place, with 6,500 total square this sounds Rumsfeldian, but if you don’t know paign, June 7. footage. The resort’s extensive outdoor area is the perfect backdrop for your ceremony and the what you don’t know, you’re not going to make Main Ballroom is ready to accommodate up to 300 of your guests. Our catering, business and any progress, and, in fact, you’re not even “Firstly, ich vant to say zat I find audio-visual services will help make your event extra special. going to worry about the not-known thing. Obama an inspiration—it gives me great The administration may have now learned a hope zat, after years of struggle, someone can Call our sales and catering staff at 641.724.9600 to discuss your special gathering. little something about how much we care, how at last get to ze White House, despite being closely we watch, and how frustrated we have incredibly hot. On ze other hand, it’s slightly Our resort also offers: become. And in the process they may begin to disappointing that he needed zat beard, Mi- • Stunning 105-room lakeside lodge • Indoor water park see us, not as a self-absorbed little interest chelle, to help him—but vone shtep at a time. • 28 luxury cabins • Watersports & bike rental group, but as the truly battered, long suffering In terms of his style, he perfectly bridges Seri- • Rathbun Lakeshore Grille • RV park, boat slips & fishing pier and incredibly patient segment of society that ous und Sexy...Oval Office und Oval Orifice.” — • 18-hole golf course • Miles of multipurpose trails we are. Taxpayers with no benefits. Couples Brüno (Sacha Baron Cohen) to GQ, June 16. • 850-acre state park • Educational programs with with no recognition. Soldiers with no identity. DNR staff Employees with no protection. The list goes —Assistance: Bill Kelley 12633 Resort Drive, Moravia, Iowa 52571 on. ... Maybe Obama has learned that we really Located in south-central Iowa on the shores of Rathbun Lake do need his help.” — San Francisco Bay Times www.honeycreekresort.com • 877.677. 3 344 writer Ann Rostow, June 25. 10 July 15, 2009

VIEWPOINTS VOL. 24, No. 41, July 15, 2009 The combined forces of Windy City Times, founded Sept. 1985, and Outlines newspaper, erosexist norms. And as the man in the mirror land Ranch as a lure. founded May 1987. faded from black to white so, too, did his staged Although Jackson was acquitted of all charges, Rev. gender performance from cute straight boy lead the strangeness Jackson had to deal with that PUBLISHER & Executive EDITOR Irene singer of the Jackson 5 to an effeminate male Sharpton did not speak about was homophobic Tracy Baim solo artist donning outfits in sequins. bigotry, predicated on the stereotype that one’s monroe Assistant Publisher Terri Klinsky And as the consummate drag performer he was gayness or perceived gayness is not only deviant MANAGING Editor Andrew Davis not only a singer and dancer, Jackson was also a but also innately criminal. Business manager Cynthia Holmes shape-shifter. “Every time they knocked Michael down he got Director of New Media Jean Albright Jackson’s transitioned himself first into look- back up. Every time they counted him out he got ART DIRECTOR Kirk Williamson account managerS: Amy Matheny, Kirk The queerness ing like Diana Ross and then later into looking back in,” Shaprton said at the tribute. Williamson, Cynthia Holmes, Carlos Paret like his baby sister Janet and then later he tran- The child sexual-abuse charges not only Promotions director Cynthia Holmes of Michael Jackson sitioned himself into something, well, as inhu- knocked Jackson down but it shocked his fan NIGHTSPOTS MANAGING Editor Kirk Williamson manly ghastly as he became more ghostly look- base. And with the potential of his multimillion National Sales Rivendell Media, 212-242-6863 At Michael Jackson’s memorial service July 7, SENIOR WRITERS Bob Roehr, Rex Wockner, Marie ing. recording industry collapsing under false allega- J. Kuda, David Byrne, Tony Peregrin, Lisa Keen, the Rev. Al Sharpton gave a rousing speech that Jackson’s gender-blending was as transgres- tions Jackson had to go into action. Yasmin Nair, Emmanuel Garcia had the congregation at the Staples Center rise sive, taboo and subversive as his skin-bleach- When Jackson tied the knot first with Lisa Ma- TheatER Editor Scott C. Morgan to their feet at times with shouts of “Amen.” ing. rie Presley, Elvis’s daughter, in 1994 following Cinema WRITER Richard Knight, Jr. Sharpton made one particular statement in BOOKS WRITER Yasmin Nair He wore many masks until the masks became the first child-molestation charges in 1993 ev- ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT WRITERS his speech to MJ’s three children, addressing him. eryone knew that Jackson was in damage-control Mary Shen Barnidge, Jim Edminster, Steve Warren, Jackson’s eccentricities when he said, “I want Jackson’s costumes and accessories ranged mode. And his second marriage, rumored to be Lawrence Ferber, Mel Ferrand, Catey Sullivan, his children to know there was nothing strange from various signature wigs to his hypermascu- not consummated, in 1997 to Debbie Rowe, who Zachary Whittenburg, Jonathan Abarbanel about your daddy. It was strange what your Columnists/Writers: Yvonne Zipter, Susie line look with his military/marching band outfits is the mother of two of Jackson’s three children, Day, Jorjet Harper, Lee Lynch, Steve Starr, Joe daddy had to deal with, but he dealt with it or his classic red (faux) leather look from “Beat you get to see how compulsory heterosexuality Rice, Dan Woog, Marie-Jo Proulx, Lisa Keen, Chris anyway.” It” to the white nylon socks he displayed be- exacted a toll on his life. Crain, Charlsie Dewey, Michael Knipp, Mark Corece, While clearly Sharpton’s statement hinted to neath his black dress pants when moonwalking. “We will never understand what he endured ... Sabine Neidhardt, Sam Worley, Billy Masters, John the racism Jackson ensued in the music industry Fenoglio Whereas Jackson couldn’t be on the down low being judged, ridiculed. How much pain cans one PHOTOGRAPHERS Kat Fitzgerald, Mel Ferrand, as an African-American entertainer trying to be about his skin bleaching, he could be and had to take? Maybe, now, Michael, they will leave you Steve Becker, Steve Starr, Emmanuel Garcia a crossover success, Sharpton’s statement to- be on the down low about his sexuality. alone,” Marlon Jackson stated at his brother’s ARTISTS/CARTOONISTS Alison Bechdel, Mikeoart tally ignored—as much as the Black community With an entertainment industry that forced tribute. CIRCULATION has in its tribute to Jackson—the homophobia, Rock Hudson, a movie idol, in the closet until And maybe Marlon is right. Circulation director Jean Albright too, from us and the music industry. Distribution: Ashina, Allan, Dan, John, Renee, his death, and with a Black community that still Michael Jackson was unquestionably eccentric, Sue and Victor Diagnosed with vitiligo, a skin disorder that has light years to go in accepting its own LG- and his masks did not always protect him or lib- causes depigmentation in patches of his skin, BTQ population, Jackson concealed his desire to erate him because he always had to don them Jackson bleached his skin, not as a denunciation grow up with an asexual Peter Pan image. within the restricted boundaries of both race of his blackness, but rather, as he said, as a way But when rumors abound, nonetheless, that and sexual discrimination. to cosmetically have a more even skin tone. Jackson was gay so too did rumors that Jackson Perhaps Jackson’s queerness was more a func- Just as Jackson was Black, he was also queer was a serial pedophile who beguiled young im- tion of society’s homophobia than it was his because he did not conform to our society’s het- pressionable boys into his bed using the Never- own.

Copyright 2009 Lambda Publications Inc./Windy City Media average. Higher-end gay taxpayers fork over up bian soldiers? Gay dollars nourish our country’s Group; All rights reserved. Reprint by permission only. to 30 percent of their income to the govern- kith and kin but by decree we have been left at Back issues available for $3 per issue (postage included). ment. Meanwhile, an estimated 780,000 homo- the altar by our government. Return postage must accompany all manuscripts, drawings, noel and photographs submitted if they are to be returned, and sexual couples are denied the same considerable “Tolerance” from conservatives? Well, how no responsibility may be assumed for unsolicited materials. ambery ii All rights to letters, art and photographs sent to Windy tax benefits afforded to heterosexuals. about acceptance? Call me naïve, but is that too City Times will be treated as unconditionally assigned —As of May 2009, the Internal Revenue Ser- much to ask? Maybe it is. Yet recall the violent for publication purposes and as such, subject to editing vice amassed in 2008 income taxes more than Stonewall Riots in New York City in 1969, when and comment. The opinions expressed by the columnists, cartoonists, letter writers, and commentators are their own 1.4 trillion dollars. gays prevailed over police harassment. Rights and do not necessarily reflect the position ofWindy City Now some quick math: are rarely given—they are taken. Today the en- Times. Publication of the name, photograph, or likeness of a person or organization in articles or advertising in Windy A gay tax revolt $1,425,990,183,000 (I.R.S. gross collec- emy sits in Congress. Instead of blunt force, we City Times is not to be construed as any indication of the tions of individual income tax before refunds) need brave souls to say, “I do!” to equal rights sexual orientation of such person or organization. While we encourage readers to support the advertisers who make Nowadays that old Dickensian saw about the X .09 (underestimated U.S. gay population) = and hit Uncle Sam in his wallet. this newspaper possible, Windy City Times cannot accept best of times, the worst of times comes to mind. $128,339,116,470 (total gay income tax collec- Abolitionist Henry David Thoreau refused to responsibility for advertising claims. Same-sex marriage has made recent strides but tion) pay his poll tax in 1846 in protest of slavery. (773) 871-7610 FAX (773) 871-7609 If gay taxes go unpaid, the U.S. government Although Thoreau spent only one night in jail, e-mail: [email protected] lawmakers seek legally sanctioned discrimination winds up poorer by more than $128 billion. he was eager to serve his cause, and his act of with threatened Constitutional amendments. We www.WindyCityMediaGroup.com pay taxes but apparently we are still considered Sure, it is a creek draining a large river. None- civil disobedience reverberates through history. radio: WindyCityQueercast.com second-class citizens who do not deserve the theless, self-determined tax exemption could Had Thoreau organized a massive poll tax revolt, video: QueerTVNetwork.com same rights afforded to everyone else. As gays’ protest Capitol Hill’s treatment of gay people human bondage in the U.S. may have ended personal lives tip the scales of justice by break- as untouchables. Especially with recent re-in- sooner. Money chants louder than a thousand WINDY CITY MEDIA GROUP, troductions of constitutional amendments ban- activists. Cynical, yes, but the simple truth is 5315 N. Clark St. #192, Chicago, IL 60640 USA ing antiquated legal standards, when the next (MAILING ADDRESS ONLY) tax season arrives, perhaps it is time to embrace ning same-sex marriage. Some politicians’ views most people pay attention when their bottom our outcast role as the jilted Mrs. Havisham and on constitutional rights remain bizarre, if not line is threatened. Internet technology has the Windy City Times Deadline every Wednesday. in protest stop paying income taxes. illiterate. Not only does the Constitution state potential to assemble a tax showdown quickly Nightspots Deadline Wednesday prior to street date. that all U.S. citizens (not just some U.S. citi- and efficiently. Identity (BLACKlines and En La Vida): Now And why not? Currently the government is try- online only ing to dictate gay personal rights while using our zens) are entitled to the same privileges (Article Of course, tearing up their 1040 forms may Deadline The 10th of month prior. tax dollars, so one good turn deserves another. A IV, Section 2), but the Bill of Rights forbids the not be an option for some. A gay tax revolt is OUT! Resource Guide ONLINE well-orchestrated conscientious objection could Constitution’s rights to be construed in order to an extreme way of showing that LGBT garbage- www.WindyCityMediaGroup.com effectively cut off all edicts at the pass. Yes, deny or disparage other rights (Article IX). Then men and millionaires alike deserve a piece of planning a gay tax revolt instead of your wed- there is that pesky matter of no State shall make the wedding cake. To accept anything less than www.WindyCityMediaGroup.com ding could probably called sedition—not some- or enforce laws that abridge any citizen’s privi- equal marriage rights means becoming the pe- www.WindyCityQueercast.com thing to take lightly. In the 1990s I didn’t mind leges of life, liberty, or property (Article XIV). If rennial bridesmaid. www.QueerTVNetwork.com risking arrest for protesting homophobia with taxes are part of the Constitution’s bargain for No elected representative (i.e. a civil-service ACT UP, Queer Nation and the Pink Panthers, but everyone, so shall everyone have the privileges. employee wealthy with gay tax dollars) filled the threat of tax penalties is enough to give Does a gay tax revolt sound unreasonable? with religious or moral spunk should hijack their anyone pause. Nevertheless, in a pink twist on Marriage can be a beautiful ritual for people in constituents’ liberties and pursuits of happiness. the so-called Porth/Daly tax return, if every gay love. So isn’t it also unreasonable that same- By no means should any State deny its gay citi- “Windy City Media Group generated U.S. citizen and their supporters courageously sex couples should be excluded? Must I repeat zens a long-overdue fundamental human right enormous interest among their readers said no to taxation without equal representa- that given the current divorce rate teeters over already available to every heterosexual: to legal- in this year’s LGBT Consumer Index tion, extraordinary changes could occur. 50 percent, most straight couples regard their ly marry the one you love. If excluded from this Survey. Out of approximately 100 —According to the 2000 U.S. Census, the gay “sacred bond” as Houdini regarded his confines. vital part of the American Dream, a long creative print and online media partners who and lesbian population ranges between 17 to Moreover, success stories of gay adoption and population may find a way to financially secede, participated in the survey, Windy 22.5 million. Nine percent of American urban surrogate parenthood belie the hysterical excuse leaving a less perfect and certainly a less rich City was the best performing regional media in the U.S. Only survey partners populations identify as gay. Decades ago, when that marriage exists for procreation. Union. with a nationwide footprint were even less people lived out-of-the-closet, famed Being levied lately feels like an insult. Why Noel Ambery II is a journalist whose pieces able to generate a greater number of researcher Alfred Kinsey placed this historically should we pay salaries of homophobic politi- have appeared in The Indianapolis News, The responses.” ­­—David Marshall, Research underestimated number closer to 10 percent. cians who begrudge us rights enjoyed by every Hartford Courant, Genre and The New London Director, Community Marketing, Inc. —Gay men’s average household income is heterosexual citizen? Why should queer money Day. He is currently working on a novel. $85,400. That is more than double the national fund a military that hypocritically condemns les- July 15, 2009 11 GOINGS-ON WINDY CITY TIMES’ ENTERTAINMENT SECTION

TO HELEN AND BACK Actress Helen Mirren (above) stars in Phedre, a film that was recently shown at Steppenwolf. See below. THEATER MOVIES SPORTS The light stuff. ‘Summer’ daze. (Penn) State Page 12. Page 15. of chaos. Page 22. Photo courtesy of Peter Guither

cago, even though it was a huge flop that only Scottish eked out 13 performances on Broadway: High Fidelity—The Musical. Play Scott The new formed Equity troupe Route 66 The- announced recently that it would BY SCOTT C. MORGAN atre Company produce the first professional regional staging Last week, I was all set to highlight an excit- of this 2006 Broadway musical based upon Nick ing new theatrical event at Steppenwolf The- Hornby’s novel and the 2000 movie starring John atre Company starring Academy Award-winning Cusack (which reset the book’s London setting actress Helen Mirren. But I changed my mind to Chicago). The production plays a limited en- after calling Steppenwolf Communications Direc- gagement starting in August at Piper’s Alley in tor David Rosenberg to see if tickets would be the space temporarily vacated by Tony ‘n’ Tina’s available to the July 13 event by the time the Wedding. July 8 issue hit newsstands. Rosenberg said it At the time High Fidelity was heading to was essentially sold out. Broadway, a lot of people were questioning why Now, the appearance of British theater royalty that particular property was being musicalized like Mirren on a Chicago stage would undoubt- (and not as a jukebox musical, on top of that). edly sell out in seconds. But Mirren wasn’t actu- After all, its record shop hero is the type of per- ally appearing in person at Steppenwolf. son who would despise musical theater (and if Mirren was starring in a high-definition screen- he were to sing, it definitely wouldn’t be in a musical theater idiom). ing of Racine’s Greek tragedy, Phedre, from London’s Royal National Theatre. Just like the But the original Broadway producers (who also Metropolitan Opera’s worldwide live simulcasts produced Rent and Avenue Q) had faith in the to cineplexes and schools, the National Theatre Superior Donuts. show and its authors—so much so that an origi- was using satellite technology to go global. nal cast recording was made after High Fidelity’s Steppenwolf was just one of dozens of theaters star of Mirren’s stature attached, but it’s likely In other Steppenwolf news, it was announced unceremoniously short run. that was hosting a screening (not exactly a si- that theater fans who want to save on London last week that Michael McKean will reprise his Musical theater fans are certainly grateful for multaneously live one, but a retransmission of a travel costs should try to catch them all locally. role as the beleaguered Uptown show owner that decision, since it documented the work of live performance recorded by five cameras). Even more London theater is headed to the Arthur Przybyszewski in Tracy Letts’ 2008 play High Fidelity’s composer, Tom Kitt, who recently So far, this new experiment spearheaded by Windy City. Playbill.com recently reported that a Superior Donuts when it transfers to the Music won two Tony Awards for his score and orches- National Theatre Artistic Director Nicholas Hyt- North American tour of Peter Pan would launch Box Theatre on Broadway this October. (No other trations to the current Broadway hit Next to ner has generated loads of media buzz and looks in May 2010 in Chicago. casting has been announced.) Normal. High Fidelity’s other collaborators are to be a success. Of course, having a celebrity Peter Pan is currently playing in a specially Superior Donuts is Letts’ smaller-scale follow- nothing to sniff at either, since Pulitzer Prize- like Mirren attached certainly helps, but it is designed 1,100-seat tent in London’s Kensing- up to his award-winning smash August: Osage winner David Lindsay-Abaire was responsible for truly a great example of harnessing technology ton Gardens (where Peter Pan author J.M. Barrie County, which recently finished a 648-perfor- the musical’s book, while Amanda Green provid- to make theater available to the widest audience found his inspiration after meeting the Llewelyn mance run in New York. A tour of August: Osage ed lyrics. possible. Davies family). Ben Harrison directs the produc- County starring Academy Award-winner Estelle So it will be very interesting to see High Fi- Up next is an October transmission of the Na- tion, which has a new script adaptation by Tanya Parsons launches this month in Denver. The tour delity back in Chicago in musical theater form. tional Theater’s critically acclaimed production Ronder, plus designs by Olivier Award-winner is expected to hit Chicago’s Ford Center for the Who knows? The Chicago production might help the musical version of High Fidelity gain some of Shakespeare’s problem play All’s Well That William Dudley. Performing Arts, Oriental Theatre next February. artistic respect and push its way back into the Ends Well. Two more screenings in 2010 are of So in addition to Cirque du Soleil visits and During its Broadway run, August: Osage Coun- a new play by The History Boys scribe Alan Ben- the current equine extravaganza Cavalia, it ty played at two theaters: the Imperial Theatre public’s consciousness. nett called The Habit of Art, plus a stage ad- looks like theater spectaculars in traveling tents (which typically hosts big musicals like the cur- Please send theater news and other per- aptation of Terry Pratchett’s novel, Nation. Now will be an occasionally exciting sight around rent smash Billy Elliot—The Musical) and the forming-arts tidbits to scottishplayscott@ these other screenings don’t have a recognizable Chicago. more intimate Music Box next door. Another yahoo.com. former Imperial Theatre tenant is headed to Chi- 12 July 15, 2009 THEATER REVIEW A.A. Milne and Maurice Sendak, accompanied by tacking a canvas spread out on the floor. In the a score of contemporary music ranging from Pink next room, his fashionably dressed mistress frets Nocturne Floyd and Green Day to Ladysmith Black Mamba- over her lack of legal protection in the event of Playwright: Lisa Adams zo, and populated with fanciful images created her paramour’s death. A pair of servants assist At: The Living Canvas at the from a squad of supple bodies (not all of them them in their activities, one explaining to us— Old Speakeasy, 4139 N. Broadway young, nor conventionally pretty) interacting in assisted by huge rolls of paper for crumpling, Phone: 773-327-7707; $20 disciplined synchronicity belying the playfulness slashing or ripping, as occasion deems appro- Runs through: Aug. 1 of their movements. In the end, he awakes re- priate—the differences between Japanese and freshed, his experiences having brought him to American notions of death. BY MARY SHEN BARNIDGE a renewed realization of his life’s purpose and Scholars may want to note that: 1) this 80-min- the resolve needed to accept the burdens he en- ute play was written by Tennessee Williams, one Of the three shows playing the inauguration dures. of the greatest playwrights of the 20th century, night of National Pastime Theater’s 2009 Na- 2) “Action Painting,” a type of abstract impres- ked July: Art Stripped Down festival, only this THEATER REVIEW sionism popularized by the heavy-drinking Jack- one features performers disrobing entirely. But son Pollock (who died young in an automobile if a simple “parts check” is your scheme, think The Day on accident), involves the artist applying color in a again. quasi-ecstatic frenzy, 3) Japanese Noh Theatre The concept behind the Living Canvas en- Which a Man Dies is a formal 14th-century performance genre, Playwright: Tennessee Williams semble came to photographer Peter Guither one founded, some say, upon a “passionate friend- day while observing videos projected, not on Nocturne. Photo courtesy of Peter Guither At: National Pastime Theater ship” between an adolescent artist and his like- screens—flat, smooth and blank—but on the at the Old Speakeasy, 4139 N. Broadway wise youthful patron, 4) both the Noh and Kabu- textured surfaces of the surrounding room. From 1960s and early ‘70s.) Phone: 773-327-7077; $20 ki drama employ shape-shifting utility players, there it was a short—well, step—to the visual So is there an actual story to justify all this Runs through: Aug. 1 called “koken,” who assume various personae spectacle of dancers bathed in vividly-hued industry, or is this just a make-believe halluci- or serve as “invisible” stagehands and 5) Yukio abstract patterns as they execute their kinetic nogenic frolic? For theatergoers in need of intel- BY MARY SHEN BARNIDGE Mishima, the writer to whom Williams dedicated activities unfettered by restrictive garb, the re- lectual, as well as sensory, stimulation, there is this play, championed traditional Japanese art sulting effect being that of nude humans clothed Lisa Adams’ text, which recounts the spiritual The setting of our play is a hotel suite in Tokyo, forms before committing suicide by seppuku in in lighted pictures. (Oldsters may recall similar adventures of a suit-and-briefcase corporate ex- where a paint-smeared artist, clad in nothing 1970. motifs—albeit on a more nebulous scale—fig- ecutive whose dreams take him on a hero’s jour- but an athletic belt and armed with brushes, But even if the only literary allusions you rec- uring in the psychedelic Happenings of the late ney through events culled from Lewis Carroll, bottles and spray guns, is in the process of at- ognize are Spencer Tracy or Jane Austen (Wil- liams’ painter claims that he can’t marry his girl friend because the Catholic church will not allow him to divorce his wife, presently incarcerated The Chicago Red Stars in a mental hospital), the source of our hero’s distress is manifest. What artist does not fear invite you to meet the waning of his creative powers? And given the egocentricity required of such occupations, Abby Wambach what artist has not contemplated the attractions of making a swift and showy exit? of the Washington Freedom Action painting, by its very method, encour- ages extravagant behavior, and under David Ka- plan’s direction, Jeff Christian acts up a visceral and Caroline Jönsson storm in the role of the distressed artist whose alcohol-fueled despair is a stark contrast to the prim composure of Jennie Moreau’s consort and and Megan Rapinoe the wry detachment of Gerson Dacanay’s Asian host. Following its engagement as part of Na- of the Red Stars tional Pastime Theater’s Naked Theatre: Art Stripped Down showcase, this production will in a post-game benefit for Caroline Jönsson. tour the east coast, finishing with an appear- Photo by Bill Barrett ance at Provincetown’s Tennessee Williams The- atre Festival. If you don’t fancy booking a flight the Lesbian Community for Massachusetts, see it now. Care Project CRITICS’ PICS Boleros for the Disenchanted, Good- man Theatre, through July 26. Constancy Sunday, July 26, 3 p.m. game triumphs over fidelity—yes, you heard that right—in this all-ages romantic tale of im- Reception with athletes follows migrant lovers whose devotion survives 40 Abby Wambach. years of conflict and uncertainty. MSB Photo by Robert Toyota Park, The History Boys, TimeLine Theatre, Mora through Sept. 27. Two teachers duel over Bridgeview, Illinois eight bright British boys bound for Oxford or Cambridge in this dazzling examination of education with a strong gay subplot. $35 ticket includes Premier Level seats to the game plus Extended yet again, maybe you can score Megan Rapinoe some rare tickets. DO try! JA after-party with visit from the 3 players A Minister’s Wife, Writers’ Theatre, Get autographs and your photo taken with the stars through Aug. 2. This new musical adapta- tion of George Bernard Shaw’s Candida is starting to generate positive buzz in the national press. Go now to see a work that Tickets at Women & Children First Books, 5233 N. Clark in Chicago,or from ticket captains, or call compellingly stretches the boundaries of 1-866-WPS-2009, or mail check by July 15 made payable to Chicago Red Stars and send to: both musical theater and chamber opera. SCM LCCP Benefit Game, Attention Alyse LaHue, Chicago Red Stars, Up, Steppenwolf Theatre, through Aug. 7300 West 71st Street, Bridgeview, IL 60455 23. Bridget Carpenter’s play of dreams Season ticket holders call Alyse or Greg at 1-866-WPS-2009 clashing with reality is richly compelling to find out how to attend the benefit. and insightful—thanks to its defiance of Hollywood storytelling conventions and a lofty staging by director Anna D. Shapiro. Sponsored by SCM Windy City Media Group —By Abarbanel, Barnidge and Morgan chicagoredstars.com July 15, 2009 13 SPOTLIGHT

Cirque du Soleil is famed for revolutionizing circus spectacle. The same could also be said of Cavalia, A Coupla White Chicks... Photo courtesy of Buffalo Theatre Ensemble a multimedia and circus spectacular that brings the latest technology and effects to traditional THEATER REVIEW European horse pageants. See just how Cavalia A Coupla White Online This Week: co-founder and artistic director Norman Latourelle applies his past Cirque du Soleil experience on this Chicks Sitting new touring equine enterprise. Cavalia continues its high-tech horseplay in its custom white tent Around Talking at the intersection of Jackson and Racine in the Playwright: John Ford Noonan —What We May Be: West Loop neighborhood of Chicago. Performances At: Buffalo Theatre Ensemble at are at 8 p.m. July 16-18 and 21-25; 3 p.m. July McAninch Arts Center, 425 Fawell, Glen Ellyn A Shakesperean 18 and 25; and 2 p.m. July 19 and 26. Tickets are Phone: 630-942-4000; $23-$33 Remix $45.50-$89.50; call 866-999-8111 or visit www. Runs through July 26 cavalia.net. Photo courtesy of Cavalia

BY SCOTT C. MORGAN www.windycitymediagroup.com If ever there were a title that would make Eng- lish teacher cringe, that would be John Ford Noonan’s 1980 comic drama A Coupla White Chicks Sitting Around Talking. (For some reason, GILDA’S CLUB Noonan makes a conjunction of “Coupla” out of 2 great nights out at the Chicago Sky! “Couple of.”) A SISTER’SNIGHT HOPE OUT AT THE But aside from the grammatical error,LESBIAN A Coupla Breast Cancer Awareness NightTEST POSITIVE White Chicks is also bound to send shivers down NIGHTCHICAGO OUT AT SKY! AIDS Awareness Night the spine of anyone who dislikes so-calledCOMMUNITY “chick CARE Friday, August 28 AWARE NETWORKAIDSThursday, FOUNDATION September 10 Join Gilda’s Club on Aug 28 for flicks.” The play’s title is an accuratePROJECT indictor of THE NIGHT CHICAGO 7:30 p.m. SKY! v. New York 7 p.m. v. Indianapolis Breast Health Awareness Night NIGHT OUT ATOF THECHICAGO CHICAGO NIGHT WOMENS what’s inside the packaging. OUT ATEnjoy THEthe thrilling basketball,SKY! family fun and inspiring role models, A Coupla White Chicks originally played a Joinor LCCP, take A Sister’s advantage Hope and Gilda’s of this Club offer on August CHICAGO 28 to Join TPAN,SKY!OUT Chicago AT Women’s THEAIDS AIDS SKY! Project PROJECT and AIDS Foundation of Chicago’s own groundbreaking WNBA team, the Chicago Sky.

support AIDS awareness or take advantage of this offer for of Chicago on September 10 to support AIDS awareness or year-long run off-Broadway with two actresses When you purchase ticketsfor through any this 2009 offer, a Skyportion ofhome the game! Join TPAN on Sept 10Join to support AIDS Foundation AIDS of Chicago on Enjoy the thrilling basketball, family fun and inspiring role models, NIGHT OUT AT THE any Sky home game! awareness ortake take advantage advantageSept 10 of to this support of offer this for AIDS any awareness Sky home game! or who would go onto win many esteemedof Chicago’s acting own proceeds groundbreaking will be WNBA donated team, to the A ChicagoSister’s Sky. Hope. Use the attached Enjoy the thrilling basketball, family fun and inspiring role offer for any 2009 Skytake home advantage game!CHICAGO of this offer for SKY! any awards: Susan Sarandon and EileenWhen Brennan. you purchase order tickets form through to order this your offer, Sky a portion tickets of theor visit www.chicagosky.net 2009 Sky home game! models, of Chicago’s own groundbreaking WNBA team, the Join CWAP on Sept 10 to support AIDS Anyone who saw those performances wouldproceeds likewill be- anddonated enter to Lesbithe promoan Community code: ASHCare .Project. awareness or take advantage of this Chicago Sky. When you purchase tickets through this offer, a Enjoy the thrilling basketball, family fun and inspiring role models, of Chicago’s ly boast about seeing the two actresses,Use thebut attached not order form to order your Sky tickets or visit offer for any 2009 Sky home game! own groundbreaking WNBA team,Enjoy the Chicagothe thrilling Sky. basketball, When you family purchase fun and inspiring role models, of Chicago’s so much the play. www.chicagosky.net andTICKET enter the promo code:portion LCCP TICKET of the. proceeds DONATION will be donated to Gilda’s 2009Club. Use CHICAGO SKY2009 HOME CHICAGO SKY HOME OPTIONS the attached PRICES order form to order your Sky tickets or visit SCHEDULEtickets through thisSCHEDULE offer, a portionown of thegroundbreaking proceeds will WNBA be donatedEnjoy team, the the tothrilling TestChicago basketball, Sky. When family youfun andpurchase inspiring role models, of Chicago’s 2009 CHICAGO SKY HOME You can see why in Buffalo Theatre Ensemble’sTICKET TICKET DONATION tickets through this offer, a portion of the proceeds will be donated to AIDS www.chicagosky.net and enter the promo code: GCL. Positive Aware Network. Use the attached order form to orderown groundbreakingyour Sky tickets WNBA team, the Chicago Sky. When you purchase OPTIONS Upper PRICES Horseshoe $15 $5 SCHEDULE current revival of A Coupla White Chicks. The June 12, 7.30pm vs Atlanta DreamFoundation of Chicago. Usetickets the attachedthrough this order offer, form a portion to order of theyour proceeds Sky tickets will be donated to Chicago Upper Sideline $20 $5 Juneor 14,visit 5pm www.chicagosky.net vs Seattle and Stormenter the promo code: TPAN. June 12, 7.30pm June vs Atlanta 12, 7.30pm Dream vs Atlanta Dream two-character play is essentially a proto-chickUpper Horseshoe Lower $15 Horseshoe $5 $29 $10 June 14, 5pm June vs Seattle 16, 7pm Storm vs Connecticutor visit Sun www.chicagosky.net Women’s and enter AIDS the Project. promo Usecode: the AIDS attached order form to order your Sky tickets Lower Corners $39 $14June 14, 5pm vs Seattle Storm Upper Sideline $20 $5TICKET June TICKET16, 7pm DONATIONJune vs Connecticut 16, 7pm Sun June vs TICKETConnecticut 27, 7pm Sun TICKET vs Washington PRICES Mystics DONATIONor visit www.chicagosky.net and enter the promo code: CWAP. flick piece of theater awash inLower stereotypical Horseshoe Lower $29 Sideline $10 $40 $15 2009 SKY SCHEDULE OPTIONS June PRICES27, 7pm June vs Washington 27, 7pm Mystics June vs Washington 30, 7pm Mystics vs SacramentoTICKET Monarchs TICKET PRICES DONATION 2009 SKY SCHEDULE Lower Corners BB $39– CC $14 $90 $20 June 30, 7pm vs OPTIONSSacramento Monarchs character clichés. It also hasn’t dated well as a June 30, 7pm vs Sacramento Monarchs July 10, 7:30pm vs Indiana Fever Lower Sideline AA $40 $15 $130 $30July 10, 7:30pm July vs Indiana10, 7:30pm Fever July vs Indiana 19, 5pm Fever vs San AntonioOPTIONS Silver Stars TICKETJune 12, 7.30pm TICKET PRICES vs Atlanta June Dream DONATION 12, 7.30pm vs Atlanta2009 Dream SKY SCHEDULE BB – CC Skyline $90 Club $20Upper $225 Horseshoe $50July 19, $15 5pm July $5 vs San19, 5pmAntonio Silver Stars vs UpperSan Antonio Horseshoe Silver Stars $15 $5 OPTIONS June 14, 5pm vs SeattleJune Storm 14, 5pm vs Seattle Storm late 1970s period piece. July 29, 7pm vs Los Angeles Sparks June 16, 7pm vs Connecticut Sun AA $130 $30Upper Sideline July 29, $20 7pm July $5 vs Los29, Angeles7pm Sparks vs UpperLos Angeles Sideline Sparks $20 Upper Horseshoe $5 $15 $5 June 16, 7pm June vs 12,Connecticut 7.30pm Sun vs Atlanta Dream August 1, 7pm vs Connecticut Sun June 27, 7pm vs Washington Mystics August 1, 7pm August vs Connecticut 1, 7pm Sun vs LowerConnecticut Horseshoe Sun $29 Upper Sideline $10 Upper $20 Horseshoe $5 $15 June 27, $57pm June vs 14,Washington 5pm Mystics vs Seattle Storm Set in a wealthy New York suburb in WestchesterSkyline Club BE $225 SURE TO $50JOINLower THE Horseshoe SKY ON $29 $10 August 15, 7pm vs Minnesota Lynx June 30, 7pm vs SacramentoJune 30, Monarchs 7pm vs Sacramento Monarchs August 15, 7pm August vs Minnesota 15, 7pm Lynx vs Minnesota Lynx Lower Horseshoe Upper $29 Sideline $10 $20 $5 June 16, 7pm vs Connecticut Sun Lower Corners $39 $14 AugustLower 18, Corners 7pm vs Phoenix $39 Mercury $14 July 10, 7:30pm June vs 27,Indiana 7pm Fever vs Washington Mystics FRIDAY AUGUST 28 IN SUPPORTAugust 18, 7pm vs Phoenix Mercury Lower Corners Lower $39 Horseshoe July 10, 7:30pm $14 $29 vs Indiana Fever $10 County, A Coupla Chicks tells the story of two August 18, 7pm vs LowerPhoenix Sideline Mercury $40 $15 July 19, 5pm June vs 30,San 7pm Antonio Silver Stars vs Sacramento Monarchs BE SURE TO JOIN THE SKY ONLower Sideline August $40 22, 7pm $15 vs Detroit Shock August 22, 7pm vs Detroit ShockLower Sideline Lower $40 Corners July 19, 5pm $15 $39 vs San Antonio Silver $14 Stars August 22, 7pm vs BBDetroit – CC Shock $90 $20 July 29, 7pm July vs 10, Los 7:30pm Angeles Sparks vs Indiana Fever OF BREAST CANCER AWARNESS!August 28, 7:30pm vs New York Liberty August 28, 7:30pm vs New York Liberty Lower SidelineJuly 29, 7pm $40 vs Los Angeles Sparks $15 very different housewives. 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ThenTO ORDER there’s TICKETS August 28, 7:30pm August vs New 18, York7pm Liberty vs Phoenix Mercury TO ORDER TICKETS August 28, 7:30pm vs New York Liberty August 22, 7pm vs Detroit Shock TO ORDER TICKETS September 4, 7:30pm vs Washington Mystics August 28, 7:30pm vs New York Liberty Hannah Mae Bindler (Connie Canaday Howard), By phone or email: TO ORDER TICKETS TO ORDERSeptember TICKETS 4, 7:30pm vs WashingtonSeptember Mystics 10, 7pm vs Indiana Fever By phone or email: September 4, 7:30pm vs Washington Mystics Shelli Anderson at By312.994.5980, phone or email: By phone or email: September 10, 7pm vs IndianaSeptember Fever 12, 7pm vs Detroit Shock Shelli Anderson at 312.994.5980, By phoneSeptember or email: 12, 7pm vs Detroit Shock September 10, 7pm vs Indiana Fever a former cheerleader and Texas transplant who [email protected] Shelli Anderson at 312.994.5980, By phone or email: September 12, 7pm vs Detroit Shock [email protected] Shelli Anderson at 312.994.5980, Shelli Anderson at 312.994.5980, [email protected] Shelli Anderson at 312.994.5980, uses Southern charm like a defensive weapon.Joseph Drambrean Joseph at 312.994.5994 Drambarean [email protected] at 312.994.5994 [email protected] Joseph Drambarean at [email protected] [email protected]@chicagosky.netJoseph Drambarean at 312.994.5994 Joseph Drambarean at 312.994.5994 [email protected] Drambarean at [email protected] At first there is friction between the new [email protected] [email protected] By mail: By mail: neighbors, but the two become the best of By mail: By mail: Chicago Sky Chicago Sky By mail: By mail: Chicago Sky Chicago Sky 20 W. Kinzie, Suite 101020 W. Kinzie, Suite 1010 Chicago Sky 20 W. Kinzie, Suite 1010 friends after revelations of their husbands’ in- Chicago Sky 20 W. Kinzie, Suite 1010 Chicago, IL 60610 Chicago, IL 60610 20 W. Kinzie, Suite 1010 Chicago, IL 60610 fidelities (one of Noonan’s more hackneyed and 20 W. Kinzie, Suite 1010 Chicago, IL 60610 Chicago, IL 60610 Fax attached order formFax to: attached order formChicago, to: IL 60610 Fax attached order form to: forced plot points) and a Manhattan weekend Fax attached order form to: Fax attached order form to: 312.828.9979 312.828.9979 312.828.9979 shopping spree. While Noonan does explore the Fax attached order form to: 312.828.9979 312.828.9979 312.828.9979 plight of some wealthy housewives in the play, CODE: LCCP CODE: ASH CODE: GCL CODE: TPAN CODE: AIDS CODE: CWAP it lacks the gravitas and believability of other Enjoy the thrilling basketball, family fun and inspiring role models of Chicago’s own groundbreaking WNBA team, the Chicago Sky. chick flick-type works that delve deeper into When you purchase tickets through this offer, a portion of the proceeds will be donated to one of the above charities. women’s issues and friendships. Visit www.chicagosky.net and enter the promo code listed. The only reason I suspect Buffalo Theatre produced A Coupla White Chicks was to give its TICKET TICKET DONATION artistic leaders some fun roles to let loose (How- OPTIONS PRICES 2009 CHICAGO SKY ard is the troupe’s artistic director, while Barrett Upper Horseshoe $15 $5 HOME SCHEDULE is the associate artistic director). Both Howard Upper Sideline $20 $5 and Barrett look like they’re having a ball on Lower Horseshoe $29 $10 June 27, 7 p.m. vs. Washington Mystics June 30, 7 p.m. vs. Sacramento Monarchs stage under Loretta Hauser’s direction, plus I do Lower Corners $39 $14 July 10, 7:30 p.m. vs. Indiana Fever have to admit that it’s sometimes amusing to Lower Sideline $40 $15 July 19, 5 p.m. vs. San Antonio Silver Stars July 29, 7 p.m. vs. Los Angeles Sparks giggle at all the 1970s fashions, the rotary dial BB-CC $90 $20 AA $130 $30 August 1, 7 p.m. vs. Connecticut Sun telephones and the disco hits played throughout August 15, 7 p.m. vs. Minnesota Lynx Skyline Club $225 $50 August 18, 7 p.m. vs. Phoenix Mercury the production. August 22, 7 p.m. vs. Detroit Shock But at a mere 80 intermission-less minutes TO ORDER TICKETS August 28, 7:30 p.m. vs. New York Liberty September 4, 7:30 p.m. vs. Washington Mystics (and with such a weak and contrived script), A Shelli Anderson at 312.994.5980 By mail: September 10, 7 p.m. vs. Indiana Fever Coupla White Chicks doesn’t really give you that [email protected] Chicago Sky September 12, 7 p.m. vs. Detroit Shock much value for your entertainment dollar. But if Joe Drambarean at 312.994.5994 20 W. Kinzie, Suite 1010 you’re looking for nothing more than a summer [email protected] Chicago, IL 60610 trifle (think brainless Hollywood popcorn flick), Buffalo Theatre’s A Coupla White Chicks should call 866.SKY.WNBA or visit CHICAGOSKY.NET fit that bill. These special events are sponsored by 14 July 15, 2009 ent from being on the road. WCT: Besides religious music, what are your WCT: I have been to Atlanta. It’s a very musical influences? clean city. It’s where all the southern gays go MB: I’m all over the place. As a child, [there to live. were] The Beach Boys, Simon and Garfunkel, Margaret MC: Oh, Atlanta itself is very queer. I have Neil Young, The Beatles [and] Led Zeppelin. Oh, Cho. been hanging out and doing a lot of fun things. and Music Machine and Kid’s Praise albums— It’s cosmopolitan and sophisticated. You go out- very popular children’s Christian music. I went side the parameter and it’s a totally different through a passionate Supertramp phase between story. the ages of 10 and 13. High school was littered WCT: Have you had more time with all of with a range of bands like Erasure, George Mi- this to work on your new album of comedy chael, Michael Jackson, Indigo Girls, Ani Di- songs? franco, The Pixies, Nine Inch Nails and so many NUNN ON ONE MC: Yes. I have had a lot time to get better at Martha Berner. more. I’ve since gone through many others such playing and to write more. It’s fun to have this as Tom Waits, Velvet Underground, Patti Griffin, Margaret Cho: other project to work on. MUSIC Brandi Carlisle, Wilco. Ugh, the list could go on Leave it to ‘Diva’ WCT: Are you going for a Grammy? and on. BY JERRY NUNN MC: [Laughs] I have been nominated a few Martha Berner: WCT: Do you think of yourself more as a times for a Grammy for my comedy record so I writer or a performer? Margaret Cho is always on the go. This summer is think this is a shoo-in for it! It’s got to win it. I ‘Chickago’ girl MB: Both. Performing is such an incredible no different for her. Her fifth stand-up concert, have been nominated so many times. This time does good physical outlet. When you’re really feeling con- “Beautiful,” premiered recently on Showtime has gotta come through for me. nected with your audience, it’s just amazing. I BY Sarah Terez Rosenblum and her role as Teri Jane on Drop Dead Diva de- WCT: I heard you have a song about porn consider it a real privilege to be able to express buted on Lifetime July 12. Having met Margaret star Ricky Sinz; I was just hanging out with myself through music and singing. And I love Chicago-based singer/songwriter Martha Berner during Windy City Media Group’s meet-and-greet him over the weekend. the writing process. It’s like a puzzle—how [do is not only talented— boasting a grainy, mourn- at Sidetrack years ago, it was great to see that MC: Where were you hanging out with him? I] say just what I’m trying to say? What melody ful voice and an intricate finger-picking style— she hasn’t changed from being the same sweet WCT: Well, he lives down the street from and guitar part feel best? but also grounded and approachable. Set to and genuinely funny person. me. He’s my neighbor. He’s out at the bars WCT: What’s your writing process like? open for Melissa Ferrick at the second annual Windy City Times: Hello Margaret, it’s me— and raises money for groups such as TPAN MB: It varies. Some songs come really fast; Chickago Social—set to take place in the park- Jerry from Windy City. I just saw your new over IML weekend. others have taken a whole year to finish. I think ing lot across from T’s, 5025 N. Clark, July 18, show, Drop Dead Diva. It’s very cute has a MC: He’s sooo great. There is a song about they always start with a melody and a few guitar 3-10 p.m.—and with a keenly anticipated album great deal to say about how people judge Ricky Sinz on the record. I wrote it with the lead chords. Once I’m hooked on something I really soon set to drop, Berner hasn’t let her escalating people on looks. Did that attract you to the singer for the group The New Pornographers. try and let my subconscious say what it wants to fame go to her head. With a mug of tea and a project? It’s a really good song. Ricky’s cock is like 9.2 say. After that, I kind of hash through and then post-yoga glow, she pulled up a chair to answer Margaret Cho: Yes, I really loved the script. It’s inches long and 5 inches around. So that’s like try and connect in a more conscious way and some questions. a great concept and there is so much about it 45 inches of cock volume. That’s how much cock drive home whatever impact I want the song to Windy City Times: On the one hand, Per- that I really relate to. Body image is something you are getting, 45 inches! have. forming Songwriter called you “fabulous” that I have talked about in my work for years. WCT: Speaking of numbers, what does April WCT: You’re playing with a backing band for and The Chicago Tribune compared you to Tori The story is about women and how we value our 30 mean to you? the first time on your new album. How did Amos. On the other, you’re a server at a Chica- looks in this country and society. It’s not just MC: Well, it’s supposed to be my day, Margaret that come about? go restaurant. Ever feel a disconnect between about women but could apply to everyone. It’s Cho Day in San Francisco. I think it’s just the MB: It has taken years to find these guys! I your day job and your life’s work? close to my heart. one day, not every year. There’s no national holi- love them! Finding a great band is a lot like Martha Berner: Of course. I’ve gone through WCT: How do you like working with [co- day. dating. You go out on a lot of dates and you different cycles, though. A music career requires star] Brooke Elliott? WCT: Aw, that’s a gyp. We need that every might kind of like someone, or get along mostly flexibility, the most compelling reason to work MC: I love her. She’s great. She’s an amazing year! or even really like them but know that some- in [the food] industry if you’re an artist, or actress. I think the reason the show works so MC: You get inducted the one day and then it’s thing’s missing. The chemistry you need in a anyone living the life less traveled. I think I’ve well is because she makes this fantastic situa- over. It doesn’t really mean anything. It doesn’t band cannot be forced, it either is or it isn’t. At learned to see all aspects of my life as part of tion very believable. She’s an extraordinary art- get carried over to the next year. first it was just that I had some gigs and needed the journey of getting there. And by “getting ist and I am very excited to be working with WCT: How is Selene Luna doing from the a band. But we quickly gelled, started having a there,” I mean happy. [I’m] enjoying the days, her. Margaret Cho Show? She was hilarious! great time together and really had the same vi- the hours and minutes that will one day make up WCT: What do you like about acting on a MC: She’s very funny. She’s in New York right sion for where we wanted to take the songs. my entire life. television show as opposed to traveling now. She’s always doing videos and stand up WCT: What can we expect from the new al- WCT: What made you decide to make music around performing stand up? comedy. I really love her. I wish we could do bum? part of that journey? MC: I like them both but this is a very differ- more of the Cho Show but I am busy with this MB: This is the record I’ve been trying to de- MB: It kind of snuck up on me. I performed in ent life. I am living in Atlanta—well not even, television show. liver for so long. I couldn’t be more proud of the musicals as a teenager and played the cornet in Peachtree City; it’s about an hour away from WCT: Anything else you want to say about work we have done to bring it to this place. It band. I finally picked up a guitar at 17, and fell Atlanta. It’s really a small town—very conserva- it? still has the essence of my previous records, the in love with it immediately. I took it everywhere, tive, very southern. MC: I think it’s really funny and people should songwriting and vocal style; we’ve just taken the performing improvised songs for my friends at WCT: Well, I am from Tennessee. watch it. songs to a new level. The new album is, at times, late night parties with the two chords I knew, MC: So you know! [Laughs] There is a church To learn more about “Drop Dead Diva” head a little edgier, a little more rock ‘n roll then my mostly comic observations. I began writing more every five feet. That’s their big thing—church— over to www.mylifetime.com and for more previous, but still retains songs with that defi- serious songs and was fortunate enough to have and I am not like that. What is good is that I Margaret www.margaretcho.com. nite singer/songwriter, acoustic feel. some very supportive friends who praised my love the project and the show. Traveling you get WCT: What about your upcoming Chickago musical efforts and encouraged me to keep go- a measure of small towns so its not that differ- Social gig? ing. So I did. About two years later, while living MB: The line-up is great. Daphne Willis is a in the Virgin Islands [and] fulfilling the traveler local singer/songwriter, recently signed to Van- in me, I just had a moment: it occurred to me guard Records. We’re friends and have done a few CULTURE CLUB just how passionate I had become about writ- shows together. And, of course, Edie Carey and ing, singing and playing guitar. I decided I had Melissa Ferrick—[it’s] basically a whole bunch of to pursue it as far as I could. cool chicks getting together and having a great

WCT: I have a theory that writers are influ- time. At least that’s my plan. enced by the landscape in which they grew <;;BJ>;FKBI; WCT: Speaking of plans, where do you hope up. How did spending your formative years in to be in five years? @7PP:7D9;MEHB: Wisconsin affect your writing? MB: Happily making records, touring, and run- MB: I grew up in a very small town with a lake ning “Sing For Free Burma,” a small non-profit and lots of trees. I spent the bulk of my child- <;IJ?L7B that raises scholarships to help Burmese chil- hood running around in the woods building forts dren go to school. It was founded in 2008 in *Z_\\[h[dji^emi\[Wjkh_d]^eij and daydreaming. When I wasn’t doing that, I Thailand with a few Burmese friends. We held was sitting on the beach gazing out at the lake =_ehZWde@Wpp:WdY[9^_YW]e a fundraiser/concert in Thailand last year, had or the sky, just thinking. The rural aspect of Fbki'+7c[h_YWd_dj[hdWj_edWb lots of great press and the Democratic Voice of how I grew up nurtured my natural tendency to ZWdY[YecfWd_[i Burma aired it on television inside Burma. think a lot. Philosophy was my thing, questions Hopefully, I’ll resume the project in fall with a of “Why this? or “How that?” My religious up- tour. It’s a bit unofficial, but definitely where I bringing also influenced my passion for music. @kbo((#(+".fc plan to be within five years. My parents belonged to a very small “hippie” >Whh_iJ^[Wj[h_dC_bb[dd_kcFWha™ '%*:#GVcYdae]9g#!8]^XV\d See www.wantickets.com for tickets to church. My father played guitar, my uncle played J_Ya[ji0 Chickago Social. Martha Berner can be found the drums and, later, my sister was a vocalist in )'($))*$----eh^Whh_ij^[Wj[hY^_YW]e$eh] on Facebook. the church band. I grew up watching music be regarded as a deeply spiritual expression of life and love.

WndyCity_4x3_ad3.indd 1 6/25/09 4:51:09 PM July 15, 2009 15 both. This charming, canny device takes the too high and there is one groaner that comes mundane, overly common details of courtship briefly at the end of the movie—the film’s only and brings them added joy and poignancy. When cutsie-poo misstep. But it’s easy to overlook one KNIGHT I realized where first-time feature director Marc tiny flaw after having experienced such a stylish Webb was going with this device I thought to treat and throw caution to the wind to get the AT myself with hope, “Can he sustain the mood? word out: This is one not to miss. THE Can he maintain this emotional balancing act?” In brief: Who knew there were so many uses Delightfully, he does, he does. Webb’s facil- for human intestines? This, my gore-loving fans, MOVIES ity with the numerous emotional tones and look is just one of the things I learned while watch- of the picture (which changes on a dime) isn’t ing the terrifically fun Dead Snow, in which a surprising (having come from the world of music group of comely Norse medical students on a videos) and, both visually and emotionally, the skiing holiday encounter a pack of bloodthirsty movie’s just endlessly delightful with one per- Nazi zombies. The snowy scenery makes for a fect little sequence after another—a French film gorgeous and refreshing backdrop to the usual parody, a blissful dance that spontaneously hap- mayhem and carnage that ensues when the stu- pens the night after Tom gets laid for the first dents are—of course—stranded in a remote, time (it’s the hilarious high point of the movie), mountainous cabin. The splatter is plentiful; etc. The result is a film that has the same light the deaths are creatively, hilariously staged; and yet bittersweet tone of Jacque Demy’s ‘60s French there’s even a modicum of a plot (something to 500 Days musical romances—The Umbrellas of Cherbourg do with stolen treasure—a sort of mix between Dead Snow. and The Young Girls of Rochefort—but it feels The Fog and Leprechaun) to liven things up. The of Summer; very contemporary. And Gordon-Levitt—who has movie, which falls neatly into a category that she’s Sid, and it’s time to go back to just being played a series of emotionally dark, complicated I’m dubbing “gleeful gore,” is a horribly satisfy- Dead Snow characters—shows a new persona that is very ing guilty pleasure—quite literally. By Richard Knight, Jr. friends). We see everything through the eyes of Tom winning while Deschanel’s role fits her sardonic Check out my archived reviews at www. who, one day, is besotted by the nape of Sum- but winning talents like one of the vintage party windycitytimes.com or www.knightatthemov- Hot weather has only arrived in fits and starts dresses she wears throughout the movie. ies.com. Readers can leave feedback at the this summer, and it’s been the same at the mer’s neck as she sleeps and enchanted by her tattoo and then on another day, disgusted by One hates to overpraise a little film like 500 latter Web site. cineplex. It’s not been a great season for block- Days of Summer so as not to set expectations busters or much else. (The Harry Potter movie screened after my deadline so the jury’s still out on that one.) So, is there anything out there for a movie lover this summer? Well, there’s Bruno, for one. Sacha Baron Co- hen’s in-your-face comedy is raw, hilarious and a great time for an open-minded audience; Pub- lic Enemies is an old-fashioned gangster picture complete with an irresistible antihero in lead- ing man Johnny Depp and gorgeous eye candy in leading lady Marion Cotillard; and The Hurt Locker is (finally) the great Iraq War picture pre- cisely because it’s not a typical war picture. And for romantic fools (like myself) the sweetly deli- cate 500 Days of Summer, opening this Friday, is not just the best film of the season—it’s one of the best of the year. Moreover, Dead Snow, a Norwegian zombie picture also opening this weekend at the Music Box, is the chiller-thriller guilty pleasure that gore fanatics have been waiting for. In 500 Days of Summer, cutie-pie indie star Joseph Gordon-Levitt (Stop-Loss, The Lookout, Brick, Havoc)—familiar to gay audiences from his fearless lead performance in Mysterious Skin—plays Tom, a greeting-card writer who falls hopelessly, madly in love with Summer (Zooey Deschanel, another indie star), the new assistant to the boss who takes his breath away. Yet, the narrator says “This is not a love story” as we watch the lovestruck Tom making goo- goo eyes at Summer. The sardonic tone is set in place, and what follows in this “anti-love story” is one of the most delicious film versions of boy- meets-girl-boy-loses-girl that I can recall. Tom, we quickly learn, has been looking for “the one” but just as quickly we discover that Summer, though ready and willing for some ro- mance, has not. The two find a shared affection for The Smiths and Bruce Springsteen after a night of karaoke out with their co-workers, and start dating. Tom, one of those straight-up guys who plays things close to the vest, knows that he’s found something very special in Summer. She’s an individual with a mind of her own (con- fessing that her past lovers included a woman and a guy with a big penis nicknamed “the puma”) but she’s also relationship-phobic and wants things to stop at “I like you.” The familiarity of the romance between the two is turned inside out by a wonderful gim- UPCOMING GAMES mick worked into the script by Scott Neustadter Fri., 7/10, 7:30pm, vs. Indiana Go Green Night! and Michael H. Weber. 500 days of Summer— from the initial attraction to the breakup and Sun., 7/19, 5pm, vs. San Antonio the aftermath—is shown a day at a time, with Exclusive Windy City Times July Offer: Save up to 34% on the time frame thrown in the air like a deck of your Chicago Sky tickets! Use the code WINDYC when you For tickets, cards. Tom’s infatuation with Summer alters, de- call 866.SKY.WNBA or visit chicagosky.net, or bring this ad call 866.SKY.WNBA pending on his mood and whether we’re seeing to the UIC Pavilion Box Office on game day. CHICAGOSKY.NET something before or after Day 290 (when Sum- or visit mer tells Tom over coffee that he’s Nancy and

07/08/09 NELSON Chicago Sky RADERS 4716 IZIL WIndy City Half Page sr HULL LEGUAY 7.6” x 9” WIndy City Times 16 July 15, 2009 was inspired by another ... Joe Louis. Louis had and analytical fashion, like Diva. I instantly took been nicknamed “The Brown Bomber” in his hey- personal pleasure in coming up with ways that day and I thought that not only was that a cool B.B. and the Diva could play off one another as name for a superhero, I loved what I knew to opposites. I think of them as two individuals be Joe Louis’s personality. I wanted everything who long for the perspective that the other has about my Bomber to be whimsical. I liked the of the world. idea that he would be a combination of superhe- TB: What role have LGBT comics played in ro and “superfairy.” Long before Michael Jackson gay media and for the gay community over decided to popularize the wearing of one glove, the past three decades? B.B. wore one boxing glove. RK: LGBT comics join so many other forms of I considered it to be great honor when asked art in an attempt to educate. It has been ex- to create a weekly political cartoon for Cornell tremely necessary to make sure that the expe- College’s newspaper. I incorporated the Bomber riences and the uniqueness of queer folks are in the strip and it was widely read by the com- represented in film, literature, stage, television munity on campus. and the like. It has been great that there has It was years later, after I moved to Portland in also been a group of talented LGBT individuals 1980, that I felt the need to create a buddy for who share their cartooning talents and humor the Bomber. Once I came up with the name Diva as a way to be a part of sharing various aspects Touché Flambé, I had to try and come up with of what it might be like to be queer. It is yet a character who would fit that name. Diva was another form of communication that serves as a Rupert Kinnard with much of his graphic design work. clearly inspired by all the women in my life that novel way to expose who we truly are. TB: Who are some of the writers/illustrators KINNARD from cover of comics who inspire you? father who was around and provided for his fam- RK: Initially, the artists who inspired me drew ily but my main relationship with him was with superheroes for Marvel and DC Comics. Carmine him as a disciplinarian. My mother and my four Infantino, Gil Kane and Curt Swan were the DC sisters were very close and I was more than con- artists who drew characters like The Flash, Bat- tent to be by myself and to myself. I was a very man, Green Lantern and Superman. The Marvel creative young man and loved being in my own artists that I admired were John Buscema, Neal space. I was very fortunate to never give in to Adams and the great Jack Kirby. Then I fell in wanting to fit in ... with other peers. I enjoyed love with the seemingly simple artistry of Charles impressing adults with my artistic abilities but I Schulz and his Peanuts strip. In terms of “com- never set out to impress them. mercial art” I grew to love the illustrations of I have some memories of living on the West Jack Davis. Upon discovering more underground Side near Lawndale and Roosevelt for a while comics I developed a mad admiration for writ- when I was fairly young. After that my family ers/cartoonists Lynda Barry, Alison Bechdel and moved into the projects that used to be near Howard Cruse. I also have a great admiration for Roosevelt and Racine. When my mother and fa- Garry Trudeau of Doonesbury fame and how he ther moved us there, the buildings were brand changed the scope of political cartoons on daily new and living on the top floor of a 16-story comic strip pages all over the country. building provided us with an amazing view of TB: How did you get involved in gay media the Chicago area. The elementary schools I at- in Portland, and in what capacity? tended were Herzel School, John M. Smyth and RK: Once I moved to Portland I was lucky Ft. Dearborn, after we moved to the South Side. enough to have the Brown Bomber comic strip I ended up busing to Morgan Park High in 1968. published in the gay newspaper of the day, the After coming dangerously close to becoming a Two-page spread from The LifeCapsule. NW Fountain, in 1980. After that paper folded, dropout, I was saved by a series of events that another paper, The Cascade Voice entered the led to my becoming a student at the Chicago of the day—that young Black men were worth- scene and I did graphics work for them. There Public High School for Metropolitan Studies less. served as my personal divas. At one point I real- I met staff members Renee LaChance and Jay (Metro High) in 1971. Attending Metro was a While at the Sun-Times, I ended up having ized it was the combination of B.B. and the Diva Brown. After a while we all became frustrated major “fork-in-the-road” experience for me. If I my first illustration (a drawing of Redd Foxx) that made me aware of the yin and yang aspect with the paper’s focus being on the white gay hadn’t been able to attend school there, I can’t published in December of 1974, on the front of my own personality. I would like to believe male community. At first I was humored when imagine where I would be today. It was one of page of the Arts and Entertainment section of that there is a part of who I am that is innocent Renee and Jay approached me with their idea the proudest days of my life when I graduated the Sunday edition. After another drawing had and questioning, like the Brown Bomber. I also of starting a new Portland lesbian and gay pub- from Metro in ‘73—the first in my family to been published I found myself chewing at the truly feel that at a fairly early age I developed a lication. The Cascade Voice was the big kid on graduate from high school. bit to join the Sun-Times editorial art depart- way of looking at the world in a relatively calm the block, so it seemed implausible that a new I eventually lived on my own in Hyde Park for ment but became extremely frustrated when I two years and attended the American Academy was told that would never happen without am Right: B.B. and the Diva. of Art for one year. After that I eventually be- arts degree. That lead me to quitting my great Left: Rupert Kinnard with partner came enrolled at Cornell College, in Iowa, in job and enrolling at Cornell College. Scott Stapley (above); Kinnard circa 1976. That was also a great experience for me Bit by bit, especially after graduating from high school graduation. and I graduated from that school in 1979. college and having served as editor and art di- TB: What were some of your early jobs in rector of the school’s yearbook, I became more Chicago? and more interested in graphic designing. I am RK: The first job that I remember was as a very passionate about the opportunities I have paper boy for the Chicago Daily News. After that had in the past as art director and designer for I worked at a Tastee Freeze on the corner of 87th progressive publications and grassroots organi- and Aberdeen on the South Side. My first signifi- zations. I love being a part of presenting infor- cant job was as an office clerk at the Chicago mation in the most visually exciting way pos- Sun-Times in the promotion department for two sible ... with as much respect for the message years. as possible. A major part of my sense of worth TB: How did you get involved in doing il- is based on being creatively productive. It’s a lustrations and art? What does your art mean curse. to you? As a cartoonist my art has meant the world RK: Even before discovering comic books, I to me. I took the job of being a satirist very knew I could draw. Once I did get into Super- seriously when I drew my strip called Cathartic man, Batman, Green Lantern and The Flash, I Comics. It was a great challenge for me to tackle started creating my own heroes. At one point I the news events of the day and find irony and realized that there weren’t any Black superhe- humor in some very serious subjects. I loved be- roes and I was confused as to why the characters ing controversial and loved being the voice of I had created were white. Once I realized that, folks who saw things the way I saw them. I truly I created a superhero I called Superbad. I con- considered it to be a great honor to be published sidered him to be the Black Captain America. At within the pages of the papers that carried the that time I was very much influenced by Moham- strip. med Ali’s personae. I didn’t go as far as Ali did TB: How did B.B. and the Diva come about? in proclaiming that he was “The Greatest!” But Who are they inspired by? he made me embrace the young man that I had RK: As the creation of Superbad was inspired become. I didn’t as much give in to the attitude by one boxer, Mohammed Ali, The Brown Bomber July 15, 2009 17 from doing all the things I want to do. within the context of a committed relationship, The coach house is a guesthouse, and the clos- At 55 I realize that bit by bit I will start I would still need a great deal of independence. est to come to being a B&B is that we provide to slow down in all my activities, but I We both had experienced the luxury of a certain the bed and if the guests want to invite us over figure I will do as much as I can as long degree of therapy that enabled us to know what and make breakfast for us, we would consider it. as I can, until I can’t do as much. our behavioral patterns were and it was essen- So ... as “people persons” we enjoy interacting I had thought that I knew the extent tial that we could share them with one another. with the guests when they arrive but we love the of how difficult life could be as a Black He and I are constantly able to connect with the idea that they get to stay in a separate build- American and as a gay man through- little boy within and we don’t take everything ing that is all theirs while visiting “The City of out my life. Those “conditions” still too seriously. We truly love making one another Roses.” couldn’t prepare me for the insensi- laugh. We don’t fall for those profoundly tired TB: This new book project sounds fascinat- tivity that comes with how people clichés like “You complete me,” or “ I was once ing—a graphic novel about your experience act around folks with disabilities. half, now I am whole.” What I do embrace is as a Black gay man who is in a wheelchair. Tell It is very difficult to deal with the that we both feel that we totally support one us how this project has developed and where amount of disdain that I often get another. In the words of the great song by The you hope to take it in the future. directed towards me. In the end I Dells, Stay in My Corner, I am constantly aware RK: The LifeCapsule Project is meant to ex- think dealing with it makes me a that Scott is always there in my corner. I ac- pand on the concept of the graphic novel. It is stronger man. tively work to make sure he knows that I’ve got more like a graphically designed memoir. It tells TB: What are your general his back too. And though he and I are strong the story of what I humbly consider myself to views of the progress of our (or steadfastly stubborn) enough to deal with be—the World’s Most Well-Adjusted Black, Male, LGBT movement since the any rejection we might have received from our Gay, “Less-Abled,” Activist, Artist and Adven- 1970s? How about on gender families, we are overjoyed and absolutely moved turer. It is narrated by The Brown Bomber and and race and class issues, by the total acceptance and love that we have Diva Touché Flambé, and incorporates elements has there been progress? received from our parents. of scrapbooking, photo albums, time line, oral RK: I could not consider TB: Tell us about your bed-and-breakfast. history, biography and graphic novel. It is my myself to be the eternal op- RK: Scott and I are weird kind of “people per- greatest desire to share with others the chal- timist if I could not clearly sons.” We can be very social but when we want lenges and struggles of one who has experienced see the progress that has to be left alone we really want to be left alone. a number of social phenomenons such as: Black been made in the LGBT After my accident, I was grateful that he and I south/north migration, low-income housing, the movement since the 1970s. The owned our own home in northeast Portland. Af- civil-rights movement, Chicago’s “white flight,” pure degree of visibility that we enjoy now is ter a while I wanted to be nearer to more shops, alternative education, racism, gay identity, a constant advantage to us in all of our lives. I movie theaters, eateries and great transporta- liberal-arts education, the alternative press and Original of B.B. and the Diva full page. love the idea that it is becoming less and less tion. Once we decided to move to a more desir- paraplegia. I want to encourage others to take common for straight people to say that they able area of the city, we eventually realized that a like-minded look at their lives and imagine don’t know a queer person. we should think about incorporating a rental breaking it down in chapters. I hope to inspire There has been progress but I feel the big- property in the place we would consider buy- folks to examine all the elements that have gone paper could challenge them. I had been gain- gest challenge that we face is the same one we ing. We eventually did find a place and thought into making them the people they are today, ing more and more experience as an art direc- have faced for years. We have got to get a grip we could convert the attic or the basement into whether it be influential people they know or tor for another local alternative newspaper, so I on the diversity that lies within our own ranks. an income-producing rental. We ended up build- media figures. I love the concept of “A Life Laid told Renee and Jay when they had a publication Black people being blamed for the failure of the ing a separate unit and decided to make it a Out” and I hope this book will spark an interest date, let me know. I was surprised months later, gay marriage initiative in California sucked. Dur- short-term rental called the Kinley Manor Coach in others to realize just how fortunate, lucky and when they did inform me that they were ready ing my life I have seen racial groups within the House. It has been a joy to meet and greet folks blessed they truly are. to roll. I designed the initial layout of the paper queer communities continually being marginal- from as near as our immediate neighborhood Contact Kinnard at [email protected]. and the debut issue of Just Out hit the stands ized. I had to ask the question, “What kind of and as far away as Australia. Many people mis- The Kinley Manor Coach House Web site is October of 1983. Looking back on those early outreach was being done in those communities? takenly think of us as a bed-and-breakfast inn. www.kinleymanor.com. issues I am horrified how crude the design was Were people of color being asked to be a part of but in the paper’s first year we went on to re- the organizing?” I also found myself very dis- ceive the Lesbian and Gay Press award for best gusted with something as trivial as the 2005 design. Years later, after I had left Portland and <_dWbbo$$$7d7fWhjc[djH[djWbI[l_Y[ Academy Awards could bring about conflicts be- moved to the Bay Area, I ended up working for tween folks of color and (specifically) gay men. the San Francisco Sentinel and we also received j^WjIf[Y_Wb_p[i;nYbki_l[bo_d I truly believe that simply because Brokeback a Lesbian and Gay Press award for best design. Mountain was a milestone film that depicted a 9^_YW]eÊiIekj^Beef TB: Can you tell us about the accident that gay love story, gay men exhibited unfortunate left you disabled? How has that impacted insensitivity to the film that I thought was a your life? slightly better film, Crash, which was a complex M[Êh[OekhED;#IJEFI>EF RK: One of the most painful things about my examination of racism. accident was that it happened during a trip to š

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And baby makes three Together forever

Left: Ed Zasadil, WWII veteran (left), and partner Larry Simpson met on the 4th of July, Jennifer and Michelle Baladad-Widd are proud to announce the birth of their daughter, 1962, and celebrated their 47th anniversary July 4. Right: Jim Darby (right), American Veter- Malynn Genevieve Baladad-Widd, born June 5 at 1:58 p.m. Malynn weighed 6 lbs., 9 oz., ans for Equal Rights Chicago Chapter president, and partner Patrick Bova celebrated the 46th and measured 19 inches long. Jennifer is a former Windy City Times 30 Under 30 honoree. anniversary of their relationship that same week. Right photo by Hal Baim, courtesy www. From left to right are Jennifer Baladad-Widd, Malynn Genevieve Baladad Widd and Michelle chicagogayhistory.com Baladad-Widd. July 15, 2009 19 REAL ESTATE FOR SALE endless. Nora Duffy, Crawford Group Sotheby’s Intl, HOUSES hardwood floors, 9’ ceilings, woodburning fireplace, 312-953-1783. [email protected]. 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Starla Sholl, LCSW, PC, 773.878.5809, as amended, that a certification was filed by the un- mitment ceremonies. Willing to travel to Iowa. Contact [email protected] www.starlasholl.com. dersigned with the County Clerk of Cook Country. File 815-338-6352 or [email protected] (7/01/09-12) no. D09118245 on the JUN 30 2009 under the assumed ORDAINED MINISTER IN IOWA: Fair rates, and a HELP WANTED name of Ferry Acupuncture, Ltd. with the business wedding ceremony personalized for you. I can drive WEDNESDAY MORNING NEWSPAPER DELIVERY: Four located at 1032 N. Ashland Ave. Chicago, IL 60622. to reduce your road time. Come check me out, and Business hours, $56. Must have car and insurance. Please call The true name and residence address of the owner is: book your date today! www.iowasamesexmarriage. Jean at 773-871-7610. Michelle Ferry 2251 W. Farragut Ave. #2 Chicago, IL com [email protected] 60625. (7/29/09-3) 712-830-4890 (8/05/09-4) Planning 20 July 15, 2009 BILLY MASTERS

“To me, it’s funny at this point. Whatever. It’s so good on “Guiding Light” and “The Sopranos.” fine. It was very cold in the studio, by the way!” Gay characters seem to be turning up more —Josh Duhamel addresses the full-frontal nude and more on prime time. Hayden Panettiere’s photos he did for Greg Gorman which have re- character on “Heroes” will show a side to her cently resurfaced (we brought them to you way personality which might take some people by back in 2000 and will happily exhibit every inch surprise. In an upcoming episode, she will kiss of him again on BillyMasters.com). Something her college roommate—and not just some little tells me the size of his manhood is not of much kiss, but a full-on romantic kiss. Rumor has it 8 18 interest to Fergie. that this could be the start of more gal-gal ac- 10 I just arrived at my hotel room in what must tion. 2 continue to be referred to as an undisclosed Speaking of rumors, Rumer Willis will be play-

4 Eastern European country—my presence could ing a lesbian on “90210.” Her character, “Gia,”

16 throw the G8 into disarray. As I was settling in, will work on the school newspaper in a single 11 9 1 I heard a timid knock on my door. I opened it episode. “90210” regular Annalynne McCord is to reveal a boy straight out of the Bel Ami cata- actively campaigning for her character to have a 17 12 3 logue. “I am Luca,” he said (and I don’t believe tryst with “Gia.” “That is what I foresee. ‘Naomi’ 6 19 55 14 5 he lives on the second floor or ever met Suzanne gets drunk, and she gets a little crazy. She wants 15 13 Vega). “You are Billy Masters?” he asks. Yes. He to experiment. A little lip action with Rumer 7 gives me a sheepish grin and says, “I am here for can’t hurt anyone, right?” Speak for yourself, you,” and walks on in. Take it from me, kids— Annalynne. 58 sometimes it happens just like in the movies. A story I haven’t followed was the kiddie porn 46 48 47 Speaking of close encounters of the ques- scandal of Jackie Onassis’ stepbrother, Jamie 60 44 45 tionable kind, Joan Rivers is about to willingly Auchincloss. Apparently the police raided his 54 open herself up to questionable insults and bad home in October of 2008 and seized his comput- 59 humor. She’ll be the honoree of this summer’s er (which he shared with a “friend”). The hard 50 Comedy Central roast, following in the footsteps drive allegedly contains thousands of photos of 52 25 49 37 of such luminaries as Bob Saget, Pamela Ander- young boys in various stages of undress—to say 22 51 24 26 son, and Flava Flav. The event will be hosted by nothing of sexual positions. Among them were 32 Kathy Griffin, who has no plans to take it easy some snaps of Ron Howard, Ricky Schroeder, on her good friend. “I will be roasting Joan with Jonathan Taylor Thomas, and those brats from 33 31 more gentleness and tenderness than her latest “The Suite Life of Zack & Cody.” Far more inter- 30 56 23 53 chemical peel and, on the other hand, I will give esting to me is this scandal has revealed that 39 28 38 41 57 her a verbal pap smear. God only knows what I’m Jackie forbade James from any contact with her 36 40 29 27 going to find down there.” Perhaps this should kids after (and I quote): “he showed an unusual 21 43 42 be airing on the Discovery Channel (or the His- obsession” with the then seven-year-old John tory Channel!). The gala event will take place in Kennedy Jr. and repeatedly asked the boy to 20 34 Los Angeles on July 26 and will air Aug. 9. pose for pictures. With gigs like this, it’s becoming increasingly This week’s “Ask Billy” question comes from apparent that Griffin is no longer a D-Lister. You Mike in Orlando: “Hi Billy! Who is that African- 35 know what’s another sign? Being immortalized American actor who went shirtless in the second in wax at Madame Tussaud’s...albeit the Vegas season’s episode two of HBO’s ‘True Blood’? He

ANDERSONVILLE 18 Touché 35 Manhandler 52 Jeffrey Pub branch. Kath was at the unveiling and posed has the hottest six (or even eight) pack I’ve ever 1 @mosphere 6412 N. Clark St. 1948 N. Halsted St. 7041 S. Jeffery Blvd. with her likeness. Afterwards, she asked, “Can seen. Damn, he’s hot!” 5355 N. Clark St. ToucheChicago.com 36 minibar/winebar you tell which is which? Me either.” That would be sexy Mehcad Brooks, who you atmospherebar.com 19 Wild Pug 3341 N. Halsted St. THE BURBS 2 The Anvil 4810 N. Broadway Ave. minibarchicago.com 53 Club Krave Homophobia continues to be alive and well in might have seen on “Dollhouse,” “The Game,” 1137 W. Granville Ave. WorldsGreatestBar.com 37 North End 13126 S. Western Ave. daytime television. First we had those (semi-er- or “Ghost Whisperer.” His juiciest role prior 3 Big Chicks 3733 N. Halsted St. Blue Island, IL 5024 N. Sheridan Rd. BOYSTOWN NorthEndChicago.com ClubKrave.com roneous) reports of an actor quitting “The Young to “True Blood” was his season on “Desperate BigChicks.com 20 3160 38 Pie Hole 54 Hideaway and the Restless” when his character came out Housewives” as “Matthew Applewhite” (he had 4 Cattle Call 3160 N. Clark St. 737 W. Roscoe St. 7301 W. Roosevelt Rd. of the closet. Now comes some distressing news a little “Jungle Fever” tryst with the daughter 1547 W. Bryn Mawr Ave. Chicago3160.com PieHolePizzaJoint.com Forest Park, IL CattleCallChicago.com 21 Berlin 39 Roscoe’s 55 Hunters regarding the upcoming gay storyline on “One of “Bree”). In his personal life, his hobby is col- 5 Crew 954 W. Belmont Ave. 3356 N. Halsted St. 1932 E. Higgins Rd. Life to Live.” As I reported previously, Scott Ev- lecting vintage issues of “Playboy,” which I know 4804 N. Broadway Ave. BerlinChicago.com Roscoes.com Elk Grove Village, IL WorldsGreatestBar.com 22 Bobby Love’s 40 Scarlet HuntersNightclubs.com ans (brother of Chris) and Brett Claywell would comes as somewhat of a disappointment to my 6 Eagle 3729 N. Halsted St. 3320 N. Halsted St. 56 John L’s Place be involved in a gay romantic triangle. Fine. readers. That said, he’s a tall drink of chocolate 5001 N. Clark St. BobbyLoves.com ScarletBarChicago.com 335 154th Pl. ChicagoEagle.com 23 Bucks Saloon 41 Sidetrack Calumet City, IL However, actress Patricia Mauceri (who plays milk, measuring in at 6’3”—no surprise he had 7 El Gato Negro 3439 N. Halsted St. 3349 N. Halsted St. 57 Maneuvers Claywell’s mother) allegedly protested the fact a former career as a model. I have to agree that 1461 Irving Park Rd. BucksSaloonChicago.com SidetrackChicago.com 118 E. Jefferson St. that “Carlotta” (the Latina matriarch) was sup- he’s ripped up his body for this “True Blood” ElGatoNegroBar.com 24 Cell Block 42 Spin Joliet, IL 8 The Glenwood 3702 N. Halsted St. 800 W. Belmont Ave. JolietManeuvers.com portive of homosexuality. The brass felt having role, and allegedly he’ll be showing even more in 6962 N. Glenwood St. www.CellBlock-Chicago.com Spin-Nightclub.com 58 Moda VIP this character not be stereotypical was what the future. For now, you can enjoy all of his abs 25 43 Steamworks TheGlenwoodbar.com Charlie’s 2409 N. Mannheim Rd. made her interesting. Mauceri disagreed and was 9 Hamburger 3726 N. Broadway Ave. 3246 N. Halsted St. (bath) Franklin Park, IL Turn to page 21 Mary’s/Mary’s CharliesChicago.com SteamworksOnline.com myspace.com/modavip promptly replaced by Saundra Santiago, who was Attic 26 Circuit 59 Rumors 5400 N. Clark St. 3641 N. Halsted St. DOWNTOWN 2433 Desplaines Ave. HamburgerMarysChicago.com CircuitClub.com 44 The Baton North Riverside, IL 10 Jackhammer 27 The Closet 436 N. Clark St. RumorsPubOnline.com 6406 N. Clark St. 3325 N Broadway Ave. TheBatonShowLounge.com 60 Velvet Rope Jackhammer-Chicago.com 28 Cocktail 45 Second Story Bar 728 W. Lake St. 11 Joie De Vine 3359 N. Halsted St. 157 E. Ohio St. Oak Park, IL 1744 W. Balmoral Ave. CocktailBarChicago.com VelvetRopeOakPark.com 12 Man’s Country 29 FireFly NEAR NORTH 5017 N. Clark St. (bath) 3335 N. Halsted St. 46 Club 2506 INDIANA MansCountryChicago.com FireflyOnHalsted.com 2506 N. Clybourn Ave. 61 Dick’s R U Crazee? 13 Scot’s 30 Halsted’s Bar & 47 Crobar 1221 E.150th St. 1829 W. Montrose Ave. Grill 1543 N. Kingsbury St. Hammond, IN ChicagoScotsBar.com 3441 N. Halsted St. 48 The Prop House DicksRUCrazee.com 14 SoFo HalstedsChicago.com 1675 N. Elston Ave. 62 Encompass 4923 N. Clark St. 31 Hydrate 2415 Rush St. SofoBar.com 3458 N. Halsted St. Lake Station, IN 15 Spyners HydrateChicago.com THE SOUTHSIDE EncompassNightclub.com 4623 N. Western Ave. 32 Kit Kat 49 Club Escape Spyners.com 3700 N. Halsted St. 1530 E. 75th St. 16 Star Gaze KitKatChicago.com ClubEscapeChicago.com 5419 N. Clark St. 33 Little Jim’s 50 Escapades StarGazeChicago.com 3501 N. Halsted St. 6301 S. Harlem Ave. 17 T’s LittleJimsChicago.com 51 InnExile 5025 N. Clark St. 34 Lucky Horseshoe 5758 W. 65th St. TsBarChicago.com 3169 N. Halsted St. InnExileChicago.com July 15, 2009 21 important was sex, gender and desire as you wrote the book? Terry Galloway: Tim, you give me too much Watch 12 finalists credit. But I am glad you didn’t shy away from Wed. JJuullyy 2222 compete for cash, the sexuality of that chapter of the book. It isn’t prizes and a particularly explicit but it is as charged with NO COOVVEERR!! chance to be a desire as my little ten-year old body was. The same can be said of the rest of the book, too, I Hosted by Brad Balof BUD BOY! think. Not much explicit sex but filled with de- sire, every kind of desire imaginable. Especially thwarted, comic desire. Now, about sex ... my longtime love, Donna Marie, and I have talked more about what I didn’t write than what I did. The complexity of a long-term shared sex life, the affairs, the unanswered and answered longings. The other people we loved, longed for, had sex with even as we were loving, longing for and having sex with each other. I kind of wish I’d written more Terry Galloway. Photo by Alan Pogue about those things. But that’s stuff for anoth- er book—the sequel, the one my sister Tenley calls,“Meaner! Deafer! Queerer!” BOOKS As for gender. All my life I’ve slipped in and out of gender. Kind of like Bugs Bunny—batting Terry Galloway: eyelashes in one frame, and waggling a carrot suggestively in the next. Gender is more of a ‘Mean Little performance for me than a solid reality. That’s why I can feel perfectly manly even though I Deaf Queer’ have nice-sized boobs. VVoottee ffoorr yyoouurr ffaavvoorriitteess interview by Tim Miller Vote for your favorites TM: Your book is one of the most amazing and have a chance and have a chance books about disability I have read. Funny— Terry Galloway is a national treasure and her new ttoo wwiinn aa ttrriipp ffoorr the wonderful story of how you tried to get memoir Mean Little Deaf Queer is a book we can 22 ttoo PPuueerrttoo VVaallllaarrttaa!! your sisters to play Helen Keller with you!— 2 to Puerto Vallarta! all cherish. For 30 years in her performances she but also unflinching. You are quite forthright has explored with wild humor and theatricality Plus tickets: in wading into some of the complicated issues Pllus tiickets:: the stories and shifting layers of gender, dis- and battles in disabled communities. How PPuussssyyccaatt DDoollllllss,,, ability and being a lesbian—or as she raucously much did feeling a responsibility to these DDoonnnnaa SSuummmmeerr,,, puts it in the title of her new book—being a communities sit with you as you wrote? CCoollddppllaayy,, TThhee CCuubbss.. “Mean Little Deaf Queer.” Her work has delighted Coldplay, The Cubs. TG: Well, I tried not to feel a responsibility to Bud Light Trek and emboldened audiences all over the U.S. The Bud Liight Trek anyone. I didn’t want anyone looking over my memoir is fearless in its reach-diving boldly into MMoouunnttaaiiinn BBiiikkee,,, ...The Video Bar shoulder telling me to quit being snarky. That 3349 North Halsted our most private, pained and incredibly funny aanndd BBuudd LLiiigghhtt TT--sshhiiirrttss said, I have a lot of friends out there who are SidetrackChicago.com corners of being queer and embodied. disabled and there are certain “life experiences,” Becoming deaf as a child, and especially as a shall we say, that we have in common—things queer girl, she is launched into a haunted house like oh, the more religious members of the gen- hall of mirrors that would have challenged any eral public feeling the need to pray over us and of us. Galloway is fearless in her spelunking— heal us of our afflictions. Or the cruel, practical okay, that’s cave-exploring in case you didn’t eye that was often fixed on our bodies and al- know—into the kinky and instantly recognizable ways seemed to be asking of us, “Oh what use corners of the human heart and desire. There is are you?” nowhere she won’t go with great humor and But we are friends not only because we have sizzle. As Galloway explained to me: some shared experiences, but because we share “There are people who have the exact same a certain bleak sense of humor that character- kind of deafness I do—profound, chemically izes how we responded to those experiences. induced—who have pictures on their fridges Some of that bleakness comes from our disabili- of kittens frolicking in the grass. They’d be ap- ties. But the sense of humor would be there with palled to read the memoir, appalled to read that or without the disability. as a little nine-year-old, I liked to cross—dress So I guess I saw my only responsibility as and smoke cigars!” making sure that people saw the complexity of She has such an insightful take on how gen- disability, that I rubbed their noses in it. But der and sexuality has shimmered through her, kindly, just so they’d get a good smelly, new that we can’t help deepen our own memories. sense of it. I caught up with Terry Galloway while on her Tim Miller is a solo performer and the au- home turf of Tallahassee, Fla., to talk about thor of the books Shirts & Skin, Body Blows Mean Little Deaf Queer and how we can make and 1001 Beds. He can be reached at his Web the world safer for them! site, www.TimMillerPerformer.com. Tim Miller: Your work is so on target and Read the entire interview with Terry Gal- deep-digging in how you get at where queer loway online at www.WindyCityMediaGroup. desire takes form and resides, where sexual- com. ity is birthed and berthed! Your story of those early desire feelings you had as a child at camp for the “Deep End Swimming Instruc- tor” and how you long for her is some of the finest writing about sexuality ever. How

When there’s a Bel Ami boy waiting for me, BILLY from page 20 it’s definitely time to end yet another column. (and then some) on BillyMasters.com. By the time this hits the streets, I’ll be State- Speaking of buff bods, you know who doesn’t side—but probably with a bit of jet lag (hope- have one? Robert Pattinson. And who told you? fully that’s the worst thing I’ll catch). But not Moi. And did you believe me? No. But now we so much lag that I can’t keep you up to date can prove it. He recently did a photo shoot with the juiciest gossip on www.BillyMasters. for “Us” magazine sporting an open shirt, and com. If you’ve got a question, feel free to write revealing not a drop of definition—which con- me at [email protected] and I promise to firms my report that his abs were painted on get back to you before there’s another rumor for the upcoming “Twilight” sequel. Photos about Rumer! So, until next time, remember, don’t lie—and you can see ‘em on our web- one man’s filth is another man’s bible. site. 22 July 15, 2009 The result isTraining Rules, an emotional, gripping look at Penn State’s women’s basketball program—and women’s sports as a whole—and the web of homophobic practices and the de- struction of the lives and dreams of many of its top athletes. Training Rules examines how one athletic department allowed skilled athletes, thought to be lesbians, to be dismissed for their college team. Training Rules takes the facts from the Harris vs. Portland case and personalizes their impact by telling Harris’ story, as well as those of six other women who were victimized by Portland through the years. Harris, in her lone post-lawsuit settlement appearance in Training Rules, read a statement from her lawyer about five minutes into the film John Amaechi. Photo courtesy of Fifteen that she could not comment on the subject. Minutes PR However, Harris’ parents were not under such a gag order, and they spoke freely, openly and only keeps up with the Boston Celtics of the candid, as did other former Penn State players. National Basketball Association (NBA), yet also “We made this film to challenge people, to Jen Harris (left) and Rene Portland in the film Training Rules. tracks the Orlando Magic because the team is seek change, from the top down. That is, the coached by Amaechi ally Doc Rivers, a Chicago one of her former players, Jennifer Harris, charg- [National Collegiate Athletic Association, NCAA, native. SPORTS/RECREATION ing the school and Portland with discrimination which governs most college athletics] and col- “I keep up with Boston and hope they win it based on sexual orientation. lege’s presidents and athletic directors. We want all,” said Amaechi, who played for the Cleveland “When I heard about the lawsuit, I thought it athletes to be safe as LGBT athletes, and at this Class action: Cavaliers, Orlando Magic and Utah Jazz. would make a perfect, and more dramatic, way point, they’re not,” said Mosbacher, who spent Amaechi was awarded an Honorary Degree of to look at the issue of homophobia, particularly about three years producing the documentary, Doctor of Science by Manchester Metropolitan Film looks at in women’s sports. This was something that was and also works as a licensed psychiatrist. University on July 19, 2007, in recognition of just too good to pass up,” said Mosbacher, the Training Rules had its worldwide premiere this his achievements not only as an athlete and college situation President of Woman Vision. spring at a film festival in Philadelphia, ironi- broadcaster, but also for his charitable work with By Ross Forman But then the lawsuit was settled during film- cally, a straight film festival. It has been shown the National Literacy Trust, the National Society ing and, per the settlement, Harris could not at numerous other film festivals this summer, for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (NSPCC) Dee Mosbacher, a San Francisco-based filmmak- speak about the topic, the lawsuit or the settle- including one in San Francisco’s famed Castro and the establishment of the ABC Foundation to er, was working on a generic film a few years ago ment. And of course Portland wasn’t going to sit District in June. It will be available on DVD in encourage children to become involved in sport about homophobia in sports. She planned it to down for a one-on-one with Mosbacher. October. and their community. include an update to another film she had pro- “When we could not interview Jennifer Harris, “My favorite night so far was Opening Night, Amaechi will be in Copenhagen for the sec- duced about 15 years earlier about homophobia that became a really big challenge and we were because I really wanted to do right by the play- ond-annual World Outgames Human Rights Con- in women’s sports, and also include tales from really concerned whether or not we’d be able to ers [profiled in the film]; that was the biggest ference, held on July 27-29. The 2009 World men’s sports. finish the film without a direct interview with and most important thing to me,” Mosbacher Outgames run from July 25—August 2. Amaechi Then things went wild on the campus of Penn- her,” Mosbacher said. “How do you make a film said. “It was very difficult for these players to is an Ambassador for Amnesty International, sylvania State University, where then-veteran with two of the main protagonists [not being talk about this subject, even 20 or 30 years lat- which is one of the co-sponsors for the panel head women’s basketball coach Rene Portland interviewed]. That was the $64,000 question, er. I wanted this to bring a closure [for them]. he’ll be talking on. was entangled in a bitter lawsuit brought on by but we made it work.” I wanted them to feel vindicated, and I think The panel, he said, “is about the mix of sexu- they did. That was the most important thing, ality, sports and culture, and how sports can and for that I felt relieved and thrilled. I did be re-claimed, so that it’s not just for certain not want to re-traumatize anyone, and I don’t segments of the population and how sports can think this did.” perhaps be a conduit for a better understanding Mosbacher has sent a copy of Training Rules for all people.” to the NCAA, in hopes that the film helps open He will not be playing in any of the 38 sports, a dialogue about homophobia on college cam- including basketball, at the Outgames. puses. Playing sports, he said, “is not my job any- “I really, really want this to be seen by the more.” LGBT community, but also, the straight world,” Amaechi added: “I think [the Outgames and she said. “I really feel this film is an eye-open- its coinciding human rights conference] are er.” important; something can be learned when we And it is. use sports properly, for their very best purpose. See www.trainingrules.com. Anytime we have a serious, somewhat academic, conversation about the subject of sexuality [and Amaechi, basketball the] issues of culture, including sports, I think that’s a great benefit.” and the Outgames Amaechi is now a psychologist, working in the By Ross Forman industrial organizational settings for medium- and large-companies. “I love it; it’s fantastic,” It’s been just over two years since John Amaechi he said of his job. “I’m better at this [job than became the first openly gay professional basket- I was in the NBA] and it’s more enjoyable for ball player, and yet not much has changed for me because I don’t have to sweat. It’s a lot less gays in sports, he said. physical; the main muscle that I now exercise “I don’t see why they would be [different]; is, my brain, and I tend to be somewhat better nothing has changed, has it?!” said Amaechi, at that.” who played for three NBA teams from 1995- For more information on the 2009 World 2003. “I don’t think there’s been any sweeping Outgames and its Human Rights Conference, legislation; there haven’t been team owners act- visit www.copenhagen2009.org. ing in responsible ways to make the environ- ment more embracing for all. “Things don’t change with time alone; time is Red Stars in just that line on the bottom of the grass; you have to actually act, make decisions; you have poker benefit Two members of the Chicago Red Stars wom- to pro-actively attempt to change the environ- en’s soccer team will take part in the 4th Annual ment, and then things will move on. What did Texas Hold ‘Em charity tournament benefiting change since [I came out in February,] 2007? Chicago Gateway Green. I’m not sure much did change. Sure, I think The event will take place Wed., July 15, at there are a lot of people doing a lot of great Galleria Marchetti, 825 W. Erie, at 5:30 p.m. Oth- work, but without college [athletic directors] or ers slated to appear include Chicago Bears line- owners of [professional] teams making explicit backer Hunter Hillenmeyer and NBA star Chris statements about what they expect from their Duhon. Visit www.greenpoker.eventbrite.com for teams,” change will not happen. tickets. Amaechi, 38, now lives in England, where he works for an executive training program. He now July 15, 2009 23 CONNEXIONS MAKE IT YOUR BUSINESS

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