THE VOICE OF CHICAGO’S GAY, LESBIAN, BI AND TRANS COMMUNITY SINCE 1985 Jan. 7, 2009 • vol 24 no 15 www.WindyCityMediaGroup.com Gays tackle Burris pick

By Yasmin Nair This latest news may well turn out to be the supportive of LGBT-defined issues. most negative in Burris’s career, one that has (On Jan. 6, Senate authorities denied Burris Gov. Rod Blagojevich recently announced that seen a steady climb upwards, from being the the opportunity to be sworn in with the new- he was appointing Roland Burris to the Sen- first African American elected to statewide office est group of senators. Burris was slated to meet ate seat previously occupied by President-elect in Illinois, first as comptroller (1979-1981) and with Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid Jan. 7 in Barack Obama. The move has generated contro- then as attorney general (1991-1995). Burris is the latter’s office.) Amber versy, censure and ridicule. The governor is be- well-liked and respected in political circles. Mi- Rick Garcia, political director of LGBT-rights ing decried for equal parts hubris and arrogance, chael O’Connor, former legislative aide to State group Equality Illinois, praised Burris, saying Hollibaugh page 8 while Burris has been criticized for participating Rep. Connie Howard, said that Roland Burris is that Burris has been supportive of gay rights in what many claim is an unethical move. “eminently qualified.” Burris has been broadly Turn to page 6 LaBelles of the

Patricia Ball

Racette page 11

page 18

After a 32-year layoff, the music trio LaBelle (consisting of, from left, Nona Hendryx, Patti LaBelle and Sarah Dash) are back with a new album Michael and tour. Read an interview with Dash on page 18. Photo by Kwaku Alston Rosenbaum page 20 Four arrested in Calif. gang rape

January 7, 2009 #977 Four males—including two teens—have been tim back into her car and took her to a burned- arrested on suspicion of gang-raping a woman out apartment building. She was then sexually in Richmond, Calif., in December while allegedly attacked again inside and outside the vehicle. nightspots taunting her for being a lesbian, according to Salvador “had the most involvement and gave n the San Francisco Chronicle. orders and directions to the other individuals,” In With The New pick it up Police have arrested Humberto Hernandez Sal- Richmond Police Lt. Gagan said. “But they’re all In a flash, the pulsating Circuit crowd ushers in 2009. inSIDE page 16 Actor/model Marcus The art of the Cocktail. Patrick in Nightspots page 16 MAFIA. take it home vador, 31, as well as two teens, ages 16 and 15. responsible for the crimes that were committed page 21 Josue Gonzalez, 21, turned himself in. Authori- against the victim.” ties said that the foursome attacked the victim, All four are being held on gang rape, kidnap- 28, Dec. 13 after she got out of her car, which ping and carjacking charges. had a rainbow gay-pride sticker. More than 200 people attended a vigil for the Authorities said that one man allegedly or- victim held in Richmond this past weekend, ac- dered her to disrobe, and sexually assaulted her cording to the Bay Area Reporter. A benefit and with the help of the others, according to the raffle are planned for Jan. 9 at the Oakland les- Josue Gonzalez. Photo courtesy of the www.WindyCityQueercast.com New York Daily News. When the group saw a po- bian nightspot Velvet, the Bay Times reported. Richmond (Calif.) Police Department tential witness approaching, they forced the vic- Å<95J9BCBK<99@GÆ Ä H\YBYkMcf_H]aYg 69;=BG>5BI5FM%* ˜ '%&-$&!%($$ 8fifm@UbYH\YUhfYKUhYfHckYfD`UWY ;fcidg&$ WU``'%&-++!%+%$˜ "Wca˜ 2 Jan. 7, 2009

You’re their Rock. Let us be yours.

Life insurance is a vital part of planning to protect your loved ones. At Prudential, we understand the challenges gay and lesbian couples face when it comes to passing on your assets. That’s why every life insurance policy from the Prudential companies offers Rock Solid® benefits that include: • Legal wealth transfer to your partner or child, not subject to probate Life Insurance • You choose your beneficiary, under a legally binding contract from The Rock® • Helps replace assets lost to the federal unlimited marital deduction • Accelerated death benefits for terminal illness or nursing home costs* And, Prudential agents receive ongoing training to better serve your needs. Visit prudential.com to learn more, or contact a local office. Let us be your Rock.

The Prudential Insurance Company of America Chicagoland Agency Greater Fox Valley Agency 847-627-3950 ext. 7100 630-904-9229 ext. 7104

©2008 Life Insurance issued by The Prudential Insurance Company of America, Newark, NJ and its affiliates. Our policies contain exclusions, limitations, reductions in benefits and terms for keeping them in force. Our licensed financial professionals can provide you with costs and complete details. *Subject to terms and conditions of the benefit.When we pay a claim under this rider, the amount you receive is reduced for early payment and a $150 processing fee. Each policy used for the same claim will have an additional processing fee of up to $150. The accelerated benefit received may be taxable and may also affect your eligibility for public assistance programs, so we urge you to seek the advice of a personal tax advisor if you wish to make a claim. The Living Needs Benefit is not available in Minnesota to new purchasers over age 65 until the policy has been in force for one year, and the nursing home option is not available in New York or the District of Columbia. This rider is not available in Massachusetts. IFS-A156710 Ed. 10/2008

Pub: ______ACCOUNT Prepared by Prudential Advertising, Max Density Chicago Windy City Times ______WRITING 213 Washington St Newark NJ, BH/AG 12/17/08 (973) 802-7361 Fax (973) 367-6173 adusted to 239 1 Issue Date: 1/17/09 ______DESIGN Job No: CORL-A3604 Prod: page 4c ______CREATIVE Job Name: Partners Live size: 10.25 x 13.5 ______TRAFFIC Gay Local ______ART RIGHTS ______PROOFREADING ______SPELL CHECK DO NOT PRINT Jan. 7, 2009 3

index

NEWS Mark Leno talks Prop 8 4 Nat’l roundup 4 Local briefs 5 Roland Burris and LGBTs 6 Gays discuss Arne Duncan 7 H6I>H;68I>DC HBHC’s Amber Hollibaugh 8 World roundup 9 ÄLZVg^c\;g^ZY Quotelines 9 Views: Monroe, Osborne 10 Dc^dcHig^c\h HVji‚ZYBjh]gddbh ENTERTAINMENT Openly gay California State Sen. Mark Leno (above) talks about Prop 8 with Ä;djcYl]^aZZVi^c\ Patricia Racette talks 11 Windy City Times. Read page 4. Theater reviews 12 ViI]Z8djciZgœ Land of the Sweets 14 ^cA^cXdacEVg` ‘World’ is more inclusive 15 Knight at the Movies 16 Disc and That 17 Sarah Dash of LaBelle 18 † " 5 2'%2 Dish List: Espression 18 4(%#/5.4%2 Nunn on One: Rosenbaum 20 Isis at the Center 20 New Year’s Eve on Halsted 21

OUTLINES ÆDcZd[i]Z7jg\ZghNdj Æ7Zhi7jg\ZgÇ <:I>C=:G:½A>C8DACE6G@ Real estate; classifieds 19 Bjhi:Vi7Z[dgZNdj9^ZÇ ÅDEG6=L>C;G:NH=DL +++LZhi9^kZghZnE`ln8]^XV\d>A+%+&) Calendar 21 ÅC: ,,(.(*&..*,,(.(*&..,;Vm Sports: Skater Sasha Cohen 22 Katelynn Cusanelli (above) is someone i]ZXdjciZgWjg\Zg#Xdb who’s definitely new to MTV’s The Real '%%-I]Z8djciZg>A%%&"&%%- World. Find out why on page 15.

Photo courtesy of Tamika Young ACADEMIC PROGRAM Start here. • Associate of Arts • Associate of Applied Science www. Features include: • Associate of Science Windy —Interior Motives • Associate of Arts in Teaching —A profile of • Associate of Fine Arts City the social- • Advanced Certificates Media networking site • Basic Certificates GayWallet.com with Group Genia Stevens ADULT EDUCATION • English as a Second Language .com Photo courtesy of Genia Stevens (right) • ABE/GED • Spanish GED • Literacy • Citizenship • Workforce Preparation

CONTINUING EDUCATION

IN WITH THE NEW • Paralegal/Legal Assistant January 7, 2009 Hot New Year’s 2009 #977 • Pharmacy Technician pics from all over the • Certified Nurse Assistant www.WindyCity scene! • Web Design Photo by DJ Res-5 • Real Estate Queercast.com Go anywhere. • Food Service Sanitation In With The New • Mortgage Loan Originator In a flash, the pulsating Circuit crowd ushers in 2009. Truman College delivers high-quality, innovative, inSIDE page 16 Actor/model Marcus The art of the Cocktail. • Graphic Design Patrick in Nightspots page 16 MAFIA. page 21 affordable, and accessible educational opportuni- • TOEFL Preparation ties and services that prepare students for a rapidly • Personal Finance and more ... changing and diverse global economy. For more information, visit our website at ww.trumancollege.edu or call (773) 907-4000.

TrumanOne of the City Colleges College of Chicago 1145 West Wilson Avenue, Chicago, IL 60640 4 Jan. 7, 2009 ML: Well, it is a very mixed state, actually— viduals experienced “severe” abuse, which in- and there were many things that went wrong NATIONAL volved violence. with the [anti-Prop 8] campaign. But to put a The Sexuality and Gender Law Clinic at New silver lining on the results of Nov. 4, it should York’s Columbia Law School has secured asylum ROUNDUP for a gay, HIV-positive man from the Ivory not be overlooked that our accomplishment in BY ANDREW DAVIS the “No on 8” campaign was that we picked up Coast who thought he might be persecuted if he was forced to return to his homeland, according 18 percentage points of support that we did not The National Center for Lesbian Rights, the to a press release from the clinic. The African have just eight years ago. The 14 words of Prop- American Civil Liberties Union and Lambda Le- man, 32—who arrived in the United States in osition 8—”Only marriage between a man and gal filed a reply brief Dec. 5 in the California January 2004—said that he was constantly sub- a woman is valid or recognized in California”— Supreme Court as the organizations seek to jected to verbal, physical and sexual abuse in were put before California voters in the form of overturn the anti-same-sex-marriage initia- the Ivory Coast. Prop 22 in March 2000; we lost by 22 points, tive Proposition 8, according to a Lambda

61-39. We lost by 4 points in 2008. We picked up Legal release. The brief contends, among other Modern sex researchers have generally over- 18 points of support and the other side lost 18 things, that the proposition is void because it looked the Kinsey scale and Alfred Kinsey’s , according to an article in the Decem- points of support, so clearly this issue is moving would take away a right for a particular minority, findings ber issue of the Journal of Bisexuality. Paul H. California State Sen. Mark Leno very quickly. which cannot be accomplished via an initiative Gebhard, a member of Kinsey’s research team, I would suggest that it is historically unprec- process. said that today’s scientists, for example, are edented that an important social issue like this The New Jersey Division on Civil Rights looking at genetic causes of sexual orientation— would have a shift in public opinion in such a ruled Dec. 29 that a church group discrimi- Mark Leno something Kinsey avoided because he thought relatively short period of time. So the window is nated against a lesbian couple, Harriet Bern- the results could be used against people. closing very quickly for the other side. In fact, stein and Luisa Paster, when it did not let them talks Prop 8 In California, the attorneys for 14-year-old what’s uncommon here is that we’re fighting a hold their civil-union ceremony on property the BY ANDREW DAVIS murder suspect Brandon McInerney want a war in which we know who wins. We’re going to group owns but has allowed others to use pub- judge to allow them access to files involv- win the war; we just don’t know when the last licly, Advocate.com reported. Next, an adminis- Mark Leno made history Dec. 1, becoming the ing the prosecution of underage individuals battle is. We thought it was Nov. 4. trative-law judge will rule on a proper remedy for first out man to serve in the California Senate. as adults, PinkNews.co.uk reported. McInerney The issue of our resolution, which is now be- the situation. (He won 80 percent of the votes in the general stands accused to shooting and killing class- fore the California Supreme Court, is one that is In New York, Jesse Parsons was sentenced to election.) But he certainly did not rest on any mate Lawrence King, who reportedly was gay. much broader than marriage equality. It really five and a half years in prison after he pled laurels, kicking off the 2009-10 session by pro- In San Francisco, First United Lutheran questions if we still have a constitutional de- guilty to attacking a gay man, Lance Neve, posing an anti-Proposition 8 resolution, SR 7. Church has installed a transgender minister— mocracy in California or if we let majority votes back in March, Advocate.com reported. Origi- (Openly gay Tom Ammiano put forth a similar Jay Wilson—making him one of a very select take away anyone’s rights. It also questions nally, Parsons had agreed to a plea deal of four measure in the other legislative house, the As- group in the city, according to the Bay Area Re- years in prison, but Judge Richard Keenan threw sembly.) whether we have a democracy or a theocracy. If porter. First United was acutally the first Luther- it out and tacked on a year and a half after Windy City Times recently talked with a very you ask most people who supported Prop 8, they an church to ordain an openly LGBT pastor in the Parsons said in court in November that Neve busy Leno about his proposal and the measure say, “Marriage is between a man and a woman. 1990s. The ordination ceremony included some deserved to be attacked. Parsons must also pay he is hoping to have eventually declared legally The Bible tells us so.” The genius of our democ- accommodations for Wilson, who has the autism $24,000 for Neve’s medical expenses. invalid. racy is that we protect everyone’s constitutional spectrum disorder known as Asperger syndrome. Christine Maggiore—an HIV skeptic who Windy City Times: You introduced a mea- right to freedom of religion but we don’t let any In Memphis, Tenn., a second transwoman published the book What if Everything You sure Dec. 2 connected with Prop 8. Could you one interpretation of any one holy book become who worked as a prostitute has been shot, ac- Thought You Knew About AIDS Was Wrong— talk about it a little bit? state law. It’s curious that we’re fighting wars cording to On Top magazine. As of early January, passed away Dec. 29 at the age of 52, the around the world to prevent that very thing Leeneshia Edwards remained in critical condi- Mark Leno: Sure. It’s a resolution—so it’s not Los Angeles Times reported. Maggiore, whose from happening. Any religious minority should tion after being attacked Dec. 23. Another tran- binding legislation—to put the California State 3-year-old daughter died in 2005 of AIDS-relat- be concerned about this. swoman, Duanna Johnson, died in December af- Legislature on record [that] Proposition 8 is ed pneumonia, also founded Alive & Well AIDS Also, it would be very impractical to let Prop ter being shot Nov. 10. A video of Johnson being unconstitutional and should be thrown out by Alternatives, a support group that challenges 8 stand because, whereas the supreme court beaten down by two cops (who lost their jobs) the supreme court. We base our belief on the assumptions about AIDS. ruled that these are constitutionally protect- was circulated online early last year; police still same argument that’s being used in a number of In Arizona, the conservative Alliance Defense ed rights—the right to marry the person one have no leads in Johnson’s murder. lawsuits—that Prop 8 undermines a minority’s Fund is asking attorneys to oppose a proposed loves—they were overturned by a simple major- In Nevada, gambling regulators have filed equal protection under the law. change to the state bar association’s oath ity vote. So should we come back in two years a complaint against Las Vegas gay nightspot Equal protection is a foundational stone of our that promises equal representation to LGBT and have the rights again, [only to] have them Snick’s Place and licensee Dominic Vitale, alleg- constitutional democracy. The drafters of our clients, according to 365Gay.com. In a letter come back two years later and have them taken constitution understood clearly that minority to the bar association’s president, the fund and ing that several patrons engaged in sex acts away again? This is very messy, and it’s not con- , according to the As- rights would be at risk if undermining equal pro- other conservative lawyers were concerned that in public areas of the bar stitutional democracy—and the drafters of our sociated Press. The complaint lists seven counts, tection for them was considered a mere amend- “the proposed provision is unnecessary, exceed- constitution saw this. each punishable by a fine of up to $100,000; ment. So, to protect the minority, the drafters ingly ambiguous, and unconstitutional.” also, the club’s slot-machine license could be of the constitution set a higher bar for revising WCT: Obviously, we know about your posi- In Washington, D.C., Diego Miguel Sanchez revoked. the constitution; a revision is a radical or sig- tion on Prop 8, but what are a couple of your is now the first trans individual to work on The city of Phoenix, Ariz., recently approved nificant change to it. Undermining equal protec- other platforms? Capitol Hill, according to 365Gay.com. Sanchez , according to tion would be considered a radical or significant ML: I will be authoring California’s single-pay- will work under U.S. Rep. Barney Frank, D-Mass., a gay domestic-partner registry On Top magazine. However, the registry—which change. er universal healthcare bill; California is the only as his legislative assistant for LGBT, Healthcare, passed 6-0 and will take effect Feb. 9—only So that process for revision—different from an state legislature in the country to place [such a] Labor, Veterans and Census issues. guarantees the right to visit a partner while in a amendment—requires a more deliberative pro- bill on our governor’s desk. We’ve placed it on A controversial study has revealed that men Phoenix hospital, nursing home or other health- cess, engaging the legislature and a two-thirds [Gov. Arnold] Schwarzenegger’s desk twice, and who engage in risky sexual behavior with care facility. majority from each house prior to voters con- he’s vetoed it twice—but we will continue to other men report much higher rates than nor- In Iowa, Sioux City councilmembers are de- sidering it. And the proponents of Prop 8, for lead the charge. mal of experiencing severe childhood sexual laying taking action on an anti-same-sex- their own reasons, decided to skip the legisla- I’m also involved with renewable and clean abuse, according to an item in the International marriage resolution, according to an Advocate. tive step. energy production, having authored more bills Society for Prevention of Child Abuse and Ne- com item. Before proceeding, the city’s mayor, WCT: I think a lot of people across the promoting the solar industry than any other leg- glect. Although about 20 percent of gay and Mike Hobart, said that he wanted to consult the country were shocked when the Prop 8 results islator in Sacramento. bisexual men in the survey were sexually abused state’s attorney general “on whether we have came in because they see California as this as children—a rate similar to that found among the jurisdiction and authority to pass the reso- bastion of liberalism. heterosexual women—80 percent of those indi- lution.”

SERVING THE NEEDS OF WE ARE A DISTRIBUTOR OF HIV+ INDIVIDUALS JOSEPH RICE • LOWEST PRICES • FINANCIAL INTERIORS, INC. ASSISTANCE • COUNSELING • CONFIDENTIALITY DR. SIEGAL’S COOKIE DIET CHICAGO (773) 271-2361 THORNDALE PHARMACY www.josephriceinteriors.com 1104 W THORNDALE, CHICAGO nightspots (PH) 773-561-6660 (FX) 773-561-6685 Full Decorating Service n FULL SERVICE Specializing in Window Treatments for Over 24 Years. pick it up, take it home WE SHIP ANYWHERE DR. JAY L. HAMMERMAN, R.PH. Jan. 7, 2009 5 The second show—which will premiere shortly ‘Gays Got Talent’ OPALGA holiday before President-elect Barack Obama’s inau- finals Jan. 10 brunch Jan. 11 guration—is “Yes We Can: John Gress on the The finals for Gays Got Talent, a wide-ranging OPALGA (The Oak Park Area Lesbian and Gay Campaign Trail with Barack Obama.“ The open- Chicago-area talent contest, will take place Jan. Association) is holding its annual holiday par- ing reception will be held Friday, Jan. 16 at the 10, 2009 at Sidetrack, 3349 N. Halsted. ty—the “Aren’t You Glad the Holidays Are Over?” center’s third-floor gallery, 6:30-9:30 p.m.; a Doors open at 4 p.m., and the show begins brunch—on Sunday, Jan. 11, 1-4 p.m., at Trat- $5 donation is requested. Gress’s work involves at 5 p.m; the cost at the door is $5. On that toria 225, 225 Harrison, Oak Park. commercial and photojournalism/documentary day someone will be crowned the “Most Talented Tickets are $30 for OPALGA members, and $35 photography, and the show will run through Gay” of 2008. for non-members or guests. Call Jan at 708-848- March 1. “People were encouraged to come out and 0273. RSVP to Ben Gannon at ben@centeronhalsted. dance, sing, perform poetry, comedy or display org or call 773-472-6469, ext. 177. their magic, drag, or puppetry skills,” said Amy Garcia speaking Matheny, host of Gays Got Talent. “And the final in Arlington Heights big show will have it all—from comics to sing- Addendum ers, musicians, slam poets, magicians and the Rick Garcia, director of public policy for LGBT- rights organization Equality Illinois, will speak In listing deaths from 2008, Windy City Times oldest gay talent there is—drag kings and drag overlooked the passing of Joe La Pat. La Pat died queens.” The talent comes to the finals from about his organization Saturday, Jan. 10, in Arlington Heights at 7 p.m. There will be free June 29, Gay Pride Sunday. For several decades, many clubs around town including Stargaze, he helped improve Chicago through his real-es- Crew, Jeffrey Pub, Mary’s Attic and @mosphere. pizza, beer, wine and soft drinks. An RSVP is highly recommended. E-mail Fran tate development with partner Dick Uyvari, and The audience will vote to award the grand-prize through their civic and GLBT contributions. La Bailey at [email protected] for more John Gress’s work, “Barack Obama and winner $1,000 cash, American Airlines tickets, a Pat and Uyvari, together since 1969, were espe- details. Family.” trip to Toronto, Broadway in Chicago tickets and cially generous with the Center on Halsted and more. See www.WindyCityMediaGroup.com for the Gay Games in Chicago. La Pat was inducted more. Center hosting The opening reception for “Jeff Stevenson: into the Chicago Gay and Lesbian Hall of Fame art shows in Jan. Many-One” will be held Friday, Jan. 9 on the posthumously this past fall. 1,000+ teens The Center on Halsted, 3656 N. Halsted, will second-floor gallery, 6:30-9:30 p.m.; a $5 dona- host two art shows in January. tion is requested. The show will run through Feb. get HIV tests 15. More than 1,000 teenagers had screenings Jan. 3 for HIV and other diseases at a South Side health-related event, according to the Chicago Tribune. The tests were part of the second annual Teen Test Day, which took place at South Shore Cul- tural Center, 7059 S. Shore. Metropolitan Area Group for Igniting Civilizations sponsors the event. Fake bills allegedly found at Hydrate 06 27 09 People in the Chicago neighborhood of Boys- town are on the lookout for fake money after counterfeit money was allegedly found at Hy- drate nightclub, 3458 N. Halsted. According to the police report, the manager GET IT ON YOUR GAYDAR. of Hydrate reported that after the bar closed for COME JOIN ONE OF THE LARGEST LGBT RACES IN THE NATION the evening on Dec. 29, he discovered eight $20 U.S. currency bills that appeared to be counter- feit. No arrest has been made. The matter has been referred to the Secret Ser- vice for a follow-up investigation. Anti-DOMA rally set for Jan. 10 As part of continuing protests spurred by the passage of California’s anti-gay-marriage measure Proposition 8, protests will take place around the country Saturday, Jan. 10, to demand the repeal of the anti-gay Defense of Marriage Act. Chicago’s protest will start at 11:30 a.m. with a brief rally at the State of Illinois Building Pla- za, on the corner of Clark and Randolph. There 28th annual will then be a march up to Holy Name Cathedral, 735 N. State, and back. The main Chicago pro- test at Clark and Randolph is coordinated by the proud Gay Liberation Network and the Chicago chapter to of Join the Impact. run See www.gayliberation.net and www. 2 mile walk 5k 10 k JoinTheImpact.com. sign up now at registerPTR.com Men’s group holding Presented by The Chicago Frontrunners/Frontwalkers social, meetings Coaching for newbies starts in early spring with Frontrunners. Come join us! Visit www.frfwchicago.org Men Nurturing Men (MNM) will hold a “REUNION” potluck social Saturday, Jan. 10, 6:30 proudly sponsored by: -11:30 p.m., at one of the members’ homes. Also, MNM will form a meeting group for an eight-week session starting Thursday, Jan. 29. Each group is limited to the first 10 men who respond, with preference given toward past at- tendees. RSVP on or before Jan. 7 to 708-439-5227 or [email protected]. 6 Jan. 7, 2009 $18,900 in grants to organizations in downstate The following day, the Chicago Abortion Fund download the nominating form at www.aidsle- Downstate group Illinois and $93,000 in scholarships. Donations will host a rally at Federal Plaza at 11:30 a.m. gal.com/Documents/Nominating_Form_2009. raises over $25K can be made by sending a check to Acorn Equal- For more info on these events, see www.chica- pdf and return it with letters of support to ALCC ity Fund, P.O. Box 6286, Peoria, Ill., 61650-6286 goabortionfund.com and www.cfw.org. by Friday, Jan. 30. for scholarships or visiting www.acornequalityfund.com. If you have any questions, please call Ricardo The Acorn Equality Fund (AEF)—a 501(c)(3) Cifuentes at 312-427-8990 or ricardo@aidsle- organization that provides scholarship and grant ALCC seeking gal.com. opportunities to LGBT persons, organizations Roe v. Wade events nominees and allies in downstate Illinois—raised more The AIDS Legal Council of Chicago (ALCC) is than $25,000 at its 9th Annual Family Break- Jan. 21-22 accepting nominations for the 2009 Advocates Café hosting fast, held Dec. 6 at the Hotel Pere Marquette in The Our Voices, Our Choices reproductive jus- of the Year Awards, which will be held Tuesday, queer open mic downtown Peoria. tice coalition and the Chicago Foundation for May 5, at the Playboy Foundation, 680 N. Lake Urban Café, 1467 W. Irving Park, is sponsoring Eight scholarships totalling $16,000 were Women will hold a special event marking the Shore. The Awards celebrate the outstanding OUTmusic Queer Open Mic on the last Tuesday of awarded, including one $4,000 scholarship, 36th anniversary of the landmark Roe v. Wade achievements of men and women in Illinois who every month. the largest scholarship in the history of the the decision Wed., Jan. 21, 2009, at Center on Hal- are making a difference in the lives of people The shows will feature mostly queer acoustic AEF. sted, 3656 N. Halsted, 6:30-8:30 p.m. There is a with HIV. music. Call 773-327-9427 or visit In nine years the AEF has awarded a total of suggested donation of $5 at the door. To submit a candidate for consideration, www.urbancafechicago.com.

that he would sign on to important LGBT-fo- the population. Given that fact, how do you The AIDS Foundation of Chicago also surveyed BURRIS from cover cused legislation such as increasing Ryan White feel about [same-sex marriage]? the gubernatorial candidates that year. Burris throughout his political career and even sought Care Act funding, and helping make voluntary RB: That’s fine. It could be 30 percent or 40 scored a 73-percent rating on that survey, while out LGBT support for his possible nomination to HIV testing as routine as a blood test. percent of the population. But when you’re deal- Blagojevich was 100 percent. the Senate seat as early as Nov. 4, the night — Also contributing: Tracy Baim ing with my personal, inner beliefs, and my gay And, finally, below are Burris’ answers to the of Obama’s election. According to Garcia, Burris friends have respected my views on this because 2002 Windy City Times/BLACKlines question- approached him during the Grant Park celebra- **** they have parents the same way ... this is some- naire for statewide candidates. tions, asking for the community’s support. thing that I’m not new at discussing. They’ve 1. Would you support a state civil rights bill Garcia described Blagojevich’s appointment A look back: been trying to convince me [to support same- for gays and lesbians? YES. as “bittersweet,” going on to say that while Talking with Burris sex marriage] and some of them haven’t been Would you lobby for it? YES. “Roland Burris is highly competent and has an Whether Roland Burris gets to hold the post able to do it. Some of the white [lesbian and 2. Do you favor a statewide registry of names excellent record on lesbian and gay issues, any- for any length of time will be up to politicians gays] have been non-supportive but some Black of people who test positive for HIV? NO. That is one that this governor would appoint is tainted. and judges, a fate also awaiting Blagojevich. To lesbians and gays [have been supportive]. Marc an unreasonable invasion of privacy. Gov. Blagojevich could have appointed Mother provide some background on Burris, who has Loveless and I have been through this and a 3. On AIDS services in the state, do you fa- Teresa and she would have been tainted.” Garcia been out of the spotlight in recent years, Windy couple of [my] white staff members knew that vor: pointed out Burris’s record on LGBT issues: “Bur- City Times is taking a look back at his answers some [in the white lesbian and gay community] a. Increasing funding? YES. ris has had a long relationship with the Illinois to candidate surveys and interviewer questions. didn’t support my task because it was racism. It b. Reducing funding? NO. LGBT community. Even way back, when he was The following are quotes from an interview had absolutely nothing to do with my personal c. Maintaining current funding? NO. first appointed attorney general, he had openly with Roland Burris that ran in the December belief in the sanctity of the homosexual mari- 4. What steps, beyond current programs, should gay staff, including Lisa Cohen, and his lobby- 1997 and January 1998 issues of BLACKlines, a tal relationship. I did not get that support from the state government take to fight AIDS? State ing team lobbied the [bill designed to included now-defunct sister publication to Outlines news- them [white lesbians and gays] anyway ... they government can do more in terms of incor- sexual orientation in the statewide human-rights paper, which in 2000 merged with Windy City have not supported my candidacy [while] other porating responsible sexual awareness educa- ordinance]. Times. The interviewer was Jon Dallas: candidates didn’t believe in the marital situation tion into our public school curriculum; sup- In a 1997 interview with BLACKlines and Jon Dallas: Same-sex marriages recognized either. It was a race question. To my Black gay porting community-based needle exchange Outlines newspapers (which later merged with in other states [none at the time of the inter- and lesbian brothers and sisters, they’re dealing programs; and providing financial support for Windy City Times), Burris said he would not en- view] will not be recognized in Illinois under with my inner beliefs. And my belief is that I community-based safe sex public education dorse gay marriage, using an argument that was a law [Senate Bill 1773 sponsored by Sen. will protect every right that you have and I will campaigns. somewhat evangelical in its fervor: “If you take Peter Fitzgerald, R-Palatine] signed in May go to death with you. But I don’t think that we 5. On Medicaid, do you favor mandatory cover- it [same-sex marriage] to its ultimate conclu- 1996 by Gov. Edgar. If you had been gover- can take it to that level of marriage. If the two age of persons with HIV/AIDS? YES. sion, it will then be the destruction of the spe- nor, would you have signed that law? Will you [lesbians or gay men] want to get married, live 6. Do you favor same-sex marriage? NO. I fa- cies.” However, Garcia is not concerned about work for its repeal? together that is their decision. But don’t ask the vor civil unions, extending employee benefits this because, as he put it, such a position is Roland Burris: [This question] touches on a societal structure to sanction that [marriage]. to include same-sex partners, and the addi- no different than that of most other pro-gay very philosophical point with me, a personal It would be like the common-law arrangement, tion of gay, lesbian and transgender protec- candidates who balk at gay marriage and, more point. I have made sure that there will be no and a lot of heterosexuals are in common-law ar- tions under the human rights act, but I am importantly for Garcia, same-sex marriage is discrimination against gays and lesbians, as a rangements, there’s some protection that [het- opposed, on religious grounds, to recognition an issue to be fought for on the state and not matter of fact I’ve amended statutes, sexual ori- erosexuals] get under that [arrangement]. Now by marriage of same-sex couples. at the federal level. According to Garcia, Bur- entation preferences for hate crimes saying that in the same-sex arrangement, I don’t want to go 7. Do you believe in the right of gays and les- ris is solidly in the pro-gay category, given his you can’t attack people and I’ve worked to pass down that path because it’s a path of no return. bians to become foster parents in Illinois? YES. “support for hate-crimes legislation, his stand laws for the interest of anti-discrimination. I’ve If you start down that [road], generations from 8. Should gays and lesbians have a right to on non-discrimination, and [his opposition to] met with all of my gay friends and they know now, what will happen to our species? If there’s adopt children? YES. DADT [Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell].” where I stand on this issue. We have discussed it a law [for same-sex marriage] I will not support 9. Should gays/lesbians have the right to cus- Ben Montgomery, constituent services admin- and we have talked about it and they’ve sought it. tody of their own children? YES. istrator for U.S. Rep. Danny Davis (who turned to convince me, but guess what? They haven’t JD: What will you do to stop violence 10. Do you favor hate-crimes legislation that down the Senate seat before it was offered to quite been able to do it yet. I’m not there. And against lesbian and gay people? increases penalties for crimes committed based Burris), thinks Burris is “an excellent choice.” the reason why I’m not there as I’ve told them RB: If someone attacks [lesbians and gays] on the sexual orientation or gender identity of With regard to the LGBT community, Montgom- [gay friends] is that they don’t have an answer because you are lesbian or gay, they ought to the person attacked? YES. ery said, “I think he’d be responsive; he’s not for it either. If you take it [same-sex marriages] have an enhanced penalty because they have no 11. Do you have rights for transgendered per- close-minded on issues that affect us.” Mont- to its ultimate conclusion, it will then be the de- right to interfere with whatever you want to be sons in employment, housing and public acco- gomery also pointed out the significance of Bur- struction of the species. So therefore, I am not ... it [is] your right. I’m not somebody who’s modations? YES. ris’s stature as the first African American elected there. The bill that would come to me I could flippant about this [issue]. I’ve been in it,I 12. Do you support a woman’s right to choose to statewide office: “In the African-American not sign. Not that I don’t support all [lesbian understand it, I’ve changed and got educated abortion? YES. community, we’re very proud of that.” and gay] efforts, but when it comes to the sanc- [on lesbian and gay issues] and have become an 13. Do you favor maintaining current affirma- However, Montgomery did not approve of the tity of marriage, that to me under my culture advocate for violence against lesbians and gays. tive action programs? YES. way race was handled during the press confer- and my beliefs ... is a philosophical difference. I will certainly speak out regarding any violence 14. Do you favor public funding of the Boy ence where Blagojevich announced the appoint- In our structure in society, when we look for the against any citizen anywhere in the state of Il- Scouts, given that the private agency has been ment. Both the governor and U.S. Rep. Bobby perpetuation of mankind, we look for the op- linois. allowed to discriminate against gays and lesbi- Rush used the phrase “lynching” and strongly posite sex. There was a reason for the creation JD: Do you favor increasing funds to pay for ans? NO. suggested that it was incumbent upon the state of the opposite sex—for procreation. Various the new AIDS medications? 15. Are any members of your current staff, ei- to elect Burris in order to ensure that an African things have to happen when you get the oppo- RB: I will support anything that will deal with ther campaign staff or legislative staff, openly American would occupy the seat. As Montgomery site sex together some person may not be able the elimination of AIDS. Certainly. I’ve been out gay, lesbian, bi or transgendered? YES. put it, “Roland can stand on his own track re- to produce. But under the biological existence, on AIDS walks and I’ve hired an HIV-positive 16. Please list any and all experience you have cord. I don’t agree with making it a racial issue the circumstances are that they [gays and lesbi- person on my staff. I think I’m on the right side on gay issues, whether on legislation, voting [and] on the whole general issue of using race ans] can’t. But if you get two females together, of that issue. lobbying, personal, etc. As attorney general, in order to get something accomplished, such as you know that they cannot reproduce. You put JD: Do you support a bill to make discrimi- I was responsible for incorporating gay, les- this. Because the man that was chosen is above two males together you know that they cannot nation on the basis of sexual orientation il- bian issues into the victim’s rights, domestic that. He has not accomplished what he’s accom- reproduce. So given that as I see our societal legal in the state of Illinois? abuse and hate-crimes legislation. I created plished without the support of the white, Black structure, I see it [society] as having been cre- RB: Absolutely. the first ever Women’s Advocacy Division to and Hispanic populations. I don’t agree with us- ated in this fashion some other societies and For the complete interview see the follow- protect women from domestic abuse. Those ing race as a way to pressure people. It has no cultures are different as for the perpetuation of ing links: www.windycitymediagroup.com/ protections extend to gay, lesbian and trans- place here.” the species. gay/lesbian/news/ARTICLE.php?AID=20127 gender victims. Montgomery added that he was looking for- JD: Current statistics state that lesbians and www.windycitymediagroup.com/gay/les- ward to Burris becoming a U.S. senator, hopeful and gay men consist of about 10 percent of bian/news/ARTICLE.php?AID=20126. Jan. 7, 2009 7 which the Pride Campus was introduced, citing For now, progressive LGBTQ educators and ad- Duncan draws a lack of transparency as well as a lack of inclu- vocates are skeptical. Erica Meiners wondered, siveness in the design team, pointing out that “If we consider the work he’s done in Chicago mixed reactions there were no trans people on it. as an indication of what he plans to do nation- Michael Vaughn, Duncan’s spokesperson, re- ally, can we expect the militarization of public from LGBTAs sponded to questions about privatization and schooling in every urban school district?” By Yasmin Nair militarization. With regard to the former, he told Windy City Times, “Our priority is to give our Point Foundation After eight years of No Child Behind, which em- students great options, especially in neighbor- phasized testing scores as indicators of student hoods that have been traditionally underserved. scholarship progress, the naming of Arne Duncan as Presi- We’re willing to listen to anybody who comes deadline Feb. 9 to us with great ideas of great new options for dent-elect Barack Obama’s secretary of educa- Point Foundation—the nation’s largest schol- families.” He took issue with the notion that tion is being hailed as an opportunity to undo arship-granting organization for LGBT students CPS was being “militarized,” saying that such and reform the education legacy of the Bush ad- of merit—has started its 2009 application sea- schools were “military academies in structure ministration. Duncan’s reputation as a progres- son. Students who will be enrolled in under- but they’re set up as college prep in curriculum.” sive educator rests in part on his support for graduate or graduate programs for the 2009-10 With regard to homophobia in such schools, the proposed and now-postponed Pride School Renae Ogletree. school year are eligible to apply for the presti- Vaughn was not aware of incidents like the one campus of the North Lawndale Social Justice gious, multi-year scholarships. The application described by Roa. School, which would have focused on the needs push from Chicago Public Schools (CPS) to insti- deadline for this year’s scholarships is Feb. 9, Some are optimistic about Duncan’s ascen- of LGBTA youth. tute gay-straight alliances (GSAs) at all schools, 2009. dancy. James Madigan, the interim executive Despite glowing accolades in the national “along with workshops for teachers not just on On average, a Point Scholarship awards director at Equality Illinois, said that it’s “re- press, Duncan’s record is seen quite differently LGBTQ issues, but working with English-language $13,200 in direct financial support in addition freshing to know that someone who’s receptive by progressive LGBTA educators and school ad- learners, with workshops on undoing racism.” to the programmatic support the foundation to the idea of LGBT students is going to take vocates in Chicago and elsewhere. Henry Gir- Meiners was concerned about the militariza- provides in leadership training and mentoring. on a national role.” Madigan hoped that Duncan oux, a renowned scholar of pedagogy, recently tion adding to homophobia because “[t]ypically, See www.pointfoundation.org/apply.html for will enable federal resources to “to try to influ- co-authored (with Kenneth Saltman) an article what we know of military academies is that more info. entitled “Obama’s Betrayal of Public Education? misogyny and anti-gay hazing are significant. ence schools to make them more tolerant and Arne Duncan and the Corporate Model of School- Where’s the push from CPS to address queer is- inclusive.” ing” on TruthOut.org. The piece is especially sues at these schools? In the new all-boy school That hope was echoed by Renae Ogletree, an Pop/rock band at critical of Duncan’s Renaissance 2010 program. in Englewood? What about LGBTQ students in out lesbian and director of student development Prime Timers social at Chicago Public Schools. Ogletree—who was Under this program, according to school-re- the military schools?” Brian Roa, a faculty spon- Rick Torres, with his backup band, will provide on the proposed LGBTA school’s design team— form publication Catalyst, “The idea is to close sor of the Senn High School GSA, said that one the musical entertainment for the Sunday, Jan. praised Duncan’s willingness to consider the low-performing schools and replace them with of the students at Senn Military Academy (which 11, Chicago Prime Timers open docial at Ann needs of LGBT students but sees the issues ex- smaller, entrepreneurial schools, many of them is a wing of the high school) was a trans youth Sather Restaurant, 909 W. Belmont. tending beyond him: “The problem is with the free from union contracts and some state regula- who preferred to wear the uniform of the female The open social begins at 6 p.m., followed by whole notion of systemic change. What will this tions.” Catalyst reported that “only 2 percent [of students but was not allowed to do so. a buffet dinner and program at 7 p.m. Dinners administration put in place that strengthens an- students] were enrolled the next fall in new Re- According to Therese Quinn, associate profes- are $20 for members and $25 for non-members. ti-bullying and anti-harassment measures, and naissance schools. Nearly half of the displaced sor of art education at the School of the Art See www.primetimersww.org/chicago. students landed at schools that were on aca- Institute, the teachers hired at the new char- that ensures that people are respectful of gen- demic probation.” ter or contract schools created under Renais- der diversity, ensures that LGBT youth get their Giroux and Saltman pointed out the flaws in sance 2010 generally cannot join the Chicago medical and social needs considered? Is that an privatizing public school education on a corpo- Teacher’s Union; are on year-to-year contracts; agenda that Arne Duncan will take with him— rate model where “testing [is] used as a ploy to and are often underprepared—which has a detri- to ensure that all LGBT youth can access those de-skill teachers by reducing them to mere tech- mental effect on both faculty and students who resources?” nicians, [and] students [are] similarly reduced are LGBTQ-identified or gender-nonconforming: to customers in the marketplace rather than as “Exploited people are not the best people to be engaged, critical learners and [where] always teachers. They can’t stand up for the kids [or underfunded public schools fail so that they can themselves] because they have to look out for eventually be privatized.” their jobs.” Erica Meiners is an associate professor of Gender JUST (Justice United for Societal education and women’s studies at Northeastern Transformation) describes itself as an organizing Illinois University. She is also a coordinator at project concerned with developing a multidi- St. Leonard’s High School, an Albany Park high mensional LGBTQ agenda based on principles of school for the formerly incarcerated. Talking economic justice. Members attended the meet- with Windy City Times, Meiners saw Arne Duncan ing where the postponement of the Pride Cam- within the context of privatization and militari- pus was announced. Sam Finkelstein, a spokes- zation; she pointed out that Chicago is the most person for the group, said that the organization militarized school district in the country, with had come to support the community, but “we several of its institutions—like Senn High on are not supportive of anything that’s part of a the North Side—partly or entirely given over to plan to privatize education. So if [it had eventu- military academies. Regarding the Pride campus, ally come up for a vote] we would have said: if Meiners said, “I’m torn because I do spend time this is going to be part of the Renaissance 2010 in schools and I see the persistent heteronor- plan, we cannot support this. Even though it mativity in schools, and the violence that com- might be good for LGBT youth, it would be over- pulsory heternormativity does to all youth, but all destructive in terms of privatizing education. I also see the violence white supremacy does, There needs to be a larger systemic solution to and the violence of misogyny.” She said that the issue of bullying in high schools.” Finkel- she would rather see a comprehensive structural stein was also critical of the process through

PIZZERIA - VINO - FRIENDS

SPECIALTY WINE & BEER LIST - FULL BAR - DRINK SPECIALS OUTDOOR SEATING - CARRY OUT

TUES-THURS 5 PM-10 PM FRI-SAT 5PM-12AM (kitchen closes at 11) 773 508 5565 SUN 5 PM-10 PM, CLOSED MONDAYS www.gruppodiamici.com 1508 W JARVIS AVE., CHICAGO, IL 60626 ROGERS PARK - JARVIS & N. GREENVIEW - RED LINE JARVIS EL STOP 8 Jan. 7, 2009 way that you live as an LGBT person and they’re of people uncomfortable, and your attractive- to be in that professional mix and that is not often the places that get the least amount of ness in the community is often judged by age. okay with me. We’re still in the midst of building visibility and attention. So Howard Brown was a It then becomes very difficult to participate as a a social-justice movement of LGBT communities; real opportunity to come to Chicago, a city that community member at your age. our organizations have to reflect the diversity of I love, and also to a place where dynamic and WCT: How would Howard Brown address those communities in order to advocate for the extraordinary work was going on, but was not these issues? different things we need. If your uh-huh experi- being talked about in many of the areas where I AH: I’d like people to know that Howard ence is coming out at Vassar, that’s a very dif- did my work. Brown is a site for comprehensive care for el- ferent experience than coming out in the army WCT: What will your work entail, in relation ders and women. We’re doing home healthcare or coming out in a rural town where your dad’s to the elderly and to women? visits for frail older people, who might not be a farmer. If we don’t have diversity in our ranks, AH: The LBTI women’s services already have able to leave their houses. We can bring a doctor we won’t have diversity in our policy. And I a really good foundation, with lots of history, to their house and that’s a pretty rare capacity. don’t mean diversity in [a superficial way] but in because of the Lesbian Community Care Proj- We have a case manager who can also go with terms of depth of experience; this is about rac- ect. I see my job in LBTI women’s work as using that doctor to help put people into the services ism, class, gender and economics. The recession that as a foundation to expand services to queer that they need. We’re beginning to build peer is only going to get worse before it gets better. women at Howard Brown. The elder-services pro- teams, of older LGBT people from very diverse The bulk of LGBT are middle-class or working- gram is relatively new; the earmark was received communities who are themselves 60 and above class, and many of us are poor; to not be able to a couple of years ago, and a survey was done of and want to do outreach to other older LGBT articulate their economic circumstances is not needs and issues but the real programming work people. They’ll be peer workers in paid part-time okay. is just now just beginning. We have a lesbian positions. See www.howardbrown.org for more infor- Amber Hollibaugh. geriatric physician, a case manager [and] an Howard Brown tends to be seen as serving mation. HIV over-50 prevention educator; we have real gay white men. We want to make it clear that Renowned activist substance in that program. My job is to make we’re intentional about serving older people and Perez Hilton in all that more comprehensive and embedded in women. Amber Hollibaugh every single part of the agency. And then be- WCT: What are other specific issues you’ve Oak Brook Jan. 11 ginning to grow elder services, which nobody’s seen with regard to aging and how might they Self-proclaimed “Queen of All Media” Perez is in Chicago done. There’s a terrific elder program at the cen- be resolved? Hilton will be at Borders Books and Music, 1500 By Yasmin Nair ter but it’s not primarily focused on physical or AH: Everybody worries about being institu- 16th, Oak Brook, on Sunday, Jan. 11 at 4 p.m. behavioral needs of older people. Frankly, except tionalized in places where there may not be poli- to promote his satire, Red Carpet Suicide. Amber Hollibaugh has a unique history among for SAGE [Services and Advocacy for GLBT Elders] cies in place that protect them; they’re worried Hilton—founder of PerezHilton.com, one of LGBTQ activists, and she now brings that to in New York, very few comprehensive programs about transphobia and homophobia. The last the country’s most popular celebrity blogs—cuts Howard Brown Health Center, 4025 N. Sheridan, exist. thing you want to deal with when you’re go- loose with a book that’ll secure his reputation as chief officer of elder and LBTI women’s servic- WCT: Why do you think the elderly are ig- ing to a nursing-home senior center for lunch— as “the most hated man in Hollywood” (Rolling es. Hollibaugh is widely regarded for her writing nored that way in our community? because it’s your only hot meal—is somebody’s Stone). on queer issues relating to the most marginal- AH: I think it’s the general ageism in the cul- bad attitude about “sitting next to a fag.” If you See www.borders.com or call 630-574-0800 for ized and invisible in the community, including ture; old people are at best patronized as “cute.” can’t get the care you need because somebody more info. the poor and sex workers. Her 2000 collection of They’re not integrated in a dynamic way into the doesn’t want to bathe the dyke, you’re in trou- essays and interviews, My Dangerous Desires: a culture. When you get past a certain age, you’re ble. Most people do not bring a lot of resources YPC looking for Queer Girl Dreaming Her Way Home, details her over in this culture and all you have to offer are to their aging life, so they cannot just move out life as a working-class girl growing up in Califor- your memories of what you did before you got if they’re treated badly. Our job here is to edu- adult volunteers nia, and escaping poverty and incest by moving old. And that [is true in] the LGBT community cate the places that provide the care for elderly Youth Pride Center (YPC)—an LGBTA-focused to New York City. On the way, Hollibaugh worked as well. A lot of LGBT folks don’t know anybody people so that they’re safe places that anyone organization for teens and young adults of col- as a sex worker and stripper to pay for her un- that’s 70 or 80. That has two kinds of impacts. can access. For instance, changing their intake or—is looking for adult volunteers for its youth funded activism. She comes to Howard Brown One: You have no way to think about your own forms so they don’t ask, “Are you married?” Or program in the Hyde Park neighborhood. from a previous position as senior strategist for life as a person getting older, as an LGBT person. providing services that are not heterosexually Volunteers must be at least 25 years of age the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force. Two: Older LGBT folks are often seen as a weight biased, so you can be open about your life his- and be willling to submit to a Department of Hollibaugh spoke to Windy City Times about in the community, rather than full members that tory and not assumed to be heterosexual. Children and Family Service background check. her new job; Chicago activism; and the issues are the age they are. WCT: You came to this work through years Volunteers also must be willing to work in a facing LGBTI women and the LGBT elderly. Our policy organizations tend to not do advo- as an activist and grassroots organizer. What structured, discipline youth-led environment. Windy City Times: What attracted you to cacy work around the lifespan, so at a certain do you feel about the rise of the professional They are needed in all areas, including adminis- Howard Brown and Chicago? point you drop off the face of the earth. You’re gay activist who goes straight from college to trators, mentors, tutors, fundraisers, cooks and Amber Hollibaugh: I have always had an inter- not seen, you’re not valued, the kind of politics the nonprofit sector and who might not have field-trip chaperones. (YPC takes four cultural est in areas and geographies that were not the that’s embedded in age around sexuality has real your kind of background? field trips per month and four out-of-state trips coast. The majority of the country is neither on impact on our communities. People don’t assume AH: I don’t want to disparage the extraordi- per year). one coast or the other; it is configured around you’re sexually active once you reach a certain nary work that people do. We’ve done enough Call Frank at 773-808-6503. different kinds of terrains and different kinds age, and you’re in a community that considers activism to change things enough that being of impacts that come from those terrains: the sexual capacity really important. You’re kind of a “professional homosexual” is not completely Midwest, South, the Southwest—the rural ar- lost. The idea that you are still an erotic person marginalized. But it is also true that diverse eas, rather than urban. Those places impact the when you’re older is something that makes a lot backgrounds like myself are less and less likely iLœÀ> Ê
°Ê Monday, Jan. 12 7:15 p.m. ÕÀ« ÞÊ *
Item Of The Month Writing Workshop with Carol LaChapelle $35, pre-registration required ÇÇ·{ä{‡n{ä£

Saturday, January 17 7:30 p.m. Ó£xxÊ7°Ê,œÃVœi Sappho’s Salon: A Have your £Ê-œÕÌ Provocative Night of Lesbian Diversions premiums increased
VVœÕ˜Ìˆ˜} 5233 N. Clark recently? />ÝÊ-iÀۈVià (773) 769-9299 See me: Charles T. Rhodes, ˆ˜>˜Vˆ>Ê Agent Ê œ˜ÃՏ̈˜} 2472 N. Clark [email protected] 773.281.0890 ÕȘiÃÃÊ To see more and www.womenandchildrenfirst.com State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company for more information, go to Parking Available (not in NJ) Ê*>˜˜ˆ˜} Wheelchair Accessible State Farm Indemnity Company (NJ) www.LeatherArchives.org Home Offices: Bloomington, Illinois Jan. 7, 2009 9 Azdejkovic said the site, which is run by the Belgrade organization Queeria Center, also is be- WORLD ing targeted in two anti-gay Facebook groups, one of which has 2,500 members. “Members of these groups are openly utter- QUOTELINES ROUNDUP ing death threats to the Queeria Center activ- BY REX WOCKNER by Rex Wockner ists whose pictures circulate among the groups’ members,” he said. “They are advocating break- Gay South African ing and entering the premises of Queeria Center Q and its activists’ private apartments.” “Civil unions are an inadequate sub- tical issues such as citizenship, taxes, inheri- judge appointed to Azdejkovic asked journalists “to rise in defense stitute for marriage. Creating a separate, new tance, etc. ... it is appauling (sic) that LGBT highest court of their gay colleagues working for the Queeria legal structure to confer some benefits on couples don’t have the same rights and options same-sex couples neither honors American ide- that other people have and compared with Eu- South African Supreme Court of Appeal Judge Web site and put pressure on the Republic of als of fairness, nor does it grant true equality.” rope and Canada, the US should be ashamed of Edwin Cameron, who is openly gay and openly Serbia authorities in order that they protect — New York Times editorial, Dec. 20. how they treat love. I have voiced my strong HIV-positive, was appointed to the nation’s us.” opposition to Prop 8 on many occasions and highest court, the Constitutional Court, by Presi- “We feel a deep level of disrespect will continue to do so until that referendum is dent Kgalema Motlanthe on New Year’s Day. Australian Parliament when one of the architects The South African Lesbian and Gay Equality and promoters of an anti- Project said Cameron is the first openly gay or gives gay couples gay agenda is given the HIV-positive person “to hold such a position in equal rights prominence and the pulpit the highest court of any country.” Australia’s Senate and House of Representa- of your historic nomina- “He was among the few lawyers who defended I’m actually tives passed legislation in late November that tion. We urge you to recon- anti-apartheid activists against the old regime,” changes some 100 laws to give gay couples sider this announcement.” not a huge the group said, “and he is known for his criti- equal rights. — Human Rights Campaign gay marriage cism of the SA government on HIV/AIDS poli- The measure now goes to the Governor-General President Joe Solmonese cies. Judge Cameron also set the legal strategy supporter. for formal approval. to Barack Obama Dec. 17 for the country’s constitutional and legal reform —Rufus Wainwright The changes, introduced by the federal gov- after Obama announced on the rights of lesbian and gay people.” ernment, extend spousal rights to same-sex de that prominent evangelical South Africa’s post-apartheid constitution was facto couples in areas such as health care, taxa- preacher Rick Warren will the first one in the world to ban discrimination tion, pensions, parenting, public benefits, work- deliver the invocation at based on sexual orientation, and South Africa is place benefits, workers’ compensation, veterans’ the presidential inaugura- one of six nations where same-sex couples have affairs, elder care and educational assistance. tion. reversed. OK?” — Singer Rufus Wainwright in a access to full marriage. “At long last we have removed discrimination clarification posted on his blog, Dec. 16. In a January 2006 interview with the U.S. against same-sex couples from commonwealth “If any good can come from this (in- magazine POZ, Cameron said, “If I go into a gay law,” said Attorney-General Robert McClelland. auguration invocation) controversy, it is “Twenty years ago, as we sat in police bar or club—which I do—there’s almost no one Gay campaigners cheered the move but said that many Americans now realize that (Rick) cells for the crime of being ourselves, we who doesn’t know me, black or white. But that gay couples will not have complete equality un- Warren is masquerading as a moderate and could not possibly have imagined something hasn’t affected my personal interactions. I’m a til they can get married. posing as a pragmatist. Many Americans—who like this. People everywhere who suffer hu- loner. I’ve run away from intimate commitment previously respected Warren—now view him man rights abuses should take this apology as my entire adult life.” as a poll-tested Pat Robertson who hides hate a sign that no matter how bad things seem In January 2008, Cameron sported eye glitter British MP enters behind a Hawaiian shirt. He seemed arrogant there is always hope of a better future.” — as he officiated at the wedding of AIDS activist civil partnership and out of touch on NBC’s Dateline when he Rodney Croome of Australia’s Tasmanian Gay Zackie Achmat and husband Dalli Weyers. British Member of Parliament Nick Herbert, told Ann Curry that he wasn’t homophobic be- and Lesbian Rights Group after the Hobart City who serves as justice secretary in the Conser- cause he provided (gay) protesters outside his Council apologized Dec. 10 for having banned a Ethiopian religious vative Party’s “shadow” cabinet, entered into a church with doughnuts. Gee, thanks, maybe booth promoting gay law reform from the city’s leaders call for civil partnership with his spouse, Jason Eades, next time you take away our rights we’ll get popular outdoor Salamanca Market in 1988. In at Lambeth Town Hall in South London in late ice cream from His holiness.” — Syndicated the weeks that followed, more than 100 people gay-sex amendment December. gay columnist Wayne Besen, Dec. 22. were arrested for refusing to vacate the site, A group of Ethiopian Protestant, Roman Cath- Herbert, 45, and Eades, 36, have been togeth- marking Australia’s largest-ever act of gay civil olic and Orthodox religious leaders meeting in er for 10 years. “(In response to the Rick Warren flap, disobedience. Addis Ababa on Dec. 22 called for a constitu- Herbert represents the predominantly ru- Obama said,) ‘We can disagree without tional amendment criminalizing gay sex. ral constituency of Arundel and South Downs, being disagreeable and then focus on those “Why is (Pope) Benedict so obsessed The head of the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo which is north and east of the gay resort city of things that we hold in common as Americans.’ with gay sex? He seems to talk about it all Church, Patriarch Adune Paulos, said having gay Brighton. Sounds nice. But what we do not ‘hold in com- the time, issuing an almost weekly tirade of sex is “stupid, like animals,” and that homosex- One other Conservative MP, Alan Duncan, is mon’ is the dehumanization of homosexuals. denunciations that borders on a compulsive uals need to be taught a lesson. known to have tied the knot with a same-sex What we do not hold in common is the belief disorder. This prejudice is par for the course. Ethiopia already has a law banning gay sex, partner. that gays are perverts who have chosen their The Vatican recently opposed a United Nations under penalty of up to three years in prison, ac- British same-sex civil partnerships carry the sexual orientation on some sort of whim. What statement condemning homophobic violence cording to Human Rights Watch. same rights and obligations as a marriage. we do not hold in common is the exaltation of and the criminalization of same-sex relations. ignorance that has led and will lead to discrim- Without gay priests and bishops, the Catholic Anti-gays target Queen to knight ination and violence. Finally, what we do not Church could barely function.” — British gay hold in common is the categorization of a civil activist Peter Tatchell in a Dec. 23 statement. Serbian Web site British AIDS activist rights issue—the rights of gays to be treated The Serbian Web site queeria.com says it has Queen Elizabeth II announced on New Year’s equally—as some sort of cranky cultural dif- “This (the No on 8 campaign) was po- come under assault from anti-gay forces follow- Eve that she will knight leading AIDS activist ference. For that we need moral leadership, litical malpractice. They fucked this up, ing a decision by the Ministry of Culture to give Nick Partridge, chief executive of the AIDS orga- which, on this occasion, Obama has failed to and it was painful to watch. They shouldn’t it $4,200 in funding. nization Terrence Higgins Trust. provide. For some people, that’s nothing to be allowed to pawn this off on the Mormons “Our collaborators and activists have been Partridge told the BBC he was “absolutely de- celebrate. The party’s off.” — Washington Post or anyone else. They snatched defeat from the constantly receiving death threats and threats lighted” by the honor. columnist Richard Cohen, Dec. 23. jaws of victory, and now hundreds of thousands of physical violence,” said editor Predrag M. He will be “invested” later this year when of gay couples are going to pay the price.” — Elizabeth lays a sword on his shoulders. Azdejkovic. “Every day threats are being sent to “I’m actually not a huge gay marriage An unnamed “Democratic consultant who oper- the Web site’s official e-mail address to the ef- supporter. I personally don’t want to get ates at the highest level of California politics,” fect that the Web site is going to be hacked, —Assistance: Bill Kelley married but I think that any law or amend- to Rolling Stone magazine, Dec. 11. that we are sick people who should be treated, ment to the constitution that deals with sex that all of us should be killed.” and love should just be banned in general. I “If we can elect an African-American don’t think any government should encroach as president, we can support gay marriage! on what goes on in the bedroom at all. ... I’m Defeat Prop 8! We will not give up!” — Ma- a complete libertarian and so I really disagree donna, during a concert at Dodger Stadium, with it.” — Gay singer Rufus Wainwright to New Nov. 6. York Press, Dec. 8.

“I am not nor have I ever been opposed —Assistance: Bill Kelley to anyone’s right to marry—straight or gay. I myself just don’t want to at the moment and feel a strong tie to the traditional bohemian concept of being a homosexual, ie: the last thing we want is to be like everybody else. But who knows, a girl likes options. Maybe some- day I will want to marry! Plus, in terms of prac- 10 Jan. 7, 2009

VOL. 24, No. 15, Jan. 7, 2009 VIEWPOINT The combined forces of Windy City Times, founded Sept. 1985, and Outlines newspaper, community when it was publicly arguing that Black page from the civil-rights movement for a founded May 1987. same-sex marriage is not a civil-rights issue. photo-op moment to push their agenda. PUBLISHER & Executive EDITOR REV. In commemorating the 40th anniversary of The problem of saying “Gay is the new black” Tracy Baim IRENE Loving v. Virginia in the June 12, 1967 historic poses the following problems for many African Supreme Court decision that advanced racial and Americans: Assistant Publisher Terri Klinsky MONROE marriage equality in this country, the NAACP —The marriage-equality movement exploits MANAGING Editor Andrew Davis Business manager Cynthia Holmes Legal Defense & Educational Fund, Inc., marked Black suffering and experiences to legitimate its Director of New Media Jean Albright the anniversary by stating the following: “It is own; ART DIRECTOR Kirk Williamson undeniable that the experience of African Ameri- —The marriage-equality movement’s rallying account managerS: Amy Matheny, Kirk cans differs in many important ways from that cry against heterosexist oppression dismisses its Williamson, Terry Wiegel Gay is NOT Promotions director Cynthia Holmes of gay men and lesbians; among other things, own responsibility when it comes to white skin NIGHTSPOTS MANAGING Editor Kirk Williamson the new Black the legacy of slavery and segregation is pro- privilege. National Sales Rivendell Media, 212-242-6863 found. But differences in historical experiences —The marriage-equality movement appropri- TheatER Editor Scott C. Morgan If you are African-American and gay, and fight- should not preclude the application of consti- ates the content of the Black civil-rights move- Cinema WRITER Richard Knight, Jr. ing alongside your white LGBTQ brothers and sis- BOOKS WRITER Yasmin Nair tutional provisions to gay men and lesbians ment, but discards the context and history that SENIOR WRITERS Bob Roehr, Rex Wockner, Marie ters for queer civil rights, the notion that “Gay is who are denied the fight to marry the person of brought about it. J. Kuda, David Byrne, Cathy Seabaugh, Tony the new black” is not only absurdly arrogant, it their choice.” And in April 2006, the fund filed But this is not surprising because the larger Peregrin is also dangerously divisive. a friend-of-the-court brief in the case brought LGBTQ movement has distorted, if not erased, its ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT WRITERS In a presumably “post-racial” era with the Mary Shen Barnidge, Jim Edminster, Steve Warren, by New York same-sex couples challenging their own history when it come to the Stonewall Riots Lawrence Ferber, Mel Ferrand, Tim Nasson, Catey country’s first African-American president-elect, exclusion from marriage. of June 27-29, 1969, in Greenwich Village, New Sullivan, Zachary Whittenburg, J. S. Hall it’s easy for some to assume that race doesn’t But the Marriage Equality movement neither York City, which started on the backs of working- Columnists/Writers: Yvonne Zipter, Susie Day, matter. extends its reach beyond its concerns within its class African-American and Latino transgender Jorjet Harper, Lee Lynch, Steve Starr, Joe Rice, But when critiquing the dominant white LGBTQ Dan Woog, Marie-Jo Proulx, Lisa Keen, Chris Crain, community nor outside of it. patrons of the bar. Those brown and black LGBTQ Charlsie Dewey, Michael Knipp, Karen Dixon, Mark community’s ongoing efforts to gain marriage How the marriage debate should have been people are not only absent from the photos of Corece, Sabine Neidhardt equality and its treatment of Blacks as their framed—in a way that speaks truth to various that historic night, but they are also bleached PHOTOGRAPHERS Kat Fitzgerald, Mel Ferrand, second-class allies in the struggle a reality LGBTQ communities of color and classes—has from the annals of queer history and gay-pride Steve Becker, Steve Starr ARTISTS/CARTOONISTS Alison Bechdel, Mikeoart check happens: Both straight and queer African- not been given considerable concern. events. American communities bond together against CIRCULATION And with no public language to adequately Because of the bleaching of the Stonewall Ri- Circulation director Jean Albright their strategy for marriage equality. articulate the unique embodiment of LGBTQ ots, the beginnings of LGBTQ movement post- Distribution: Ashina, Allan, Crystal, Dan, John, Why? communities of color and classes within the Stonewall is an appropriation of black and brown Sue and Victor Because race does matter! same-sex marriage debate, this has become con- transgender liberation narratives absent of black Here’s a case in point: Proposition 8 and blam- tentious. The dominant white queer languaging and brown people. And it is the visible absence ing the Black community for its win at the ballot of this debate, at best, muffles the voices of of these black, brown and yellow LGBTQ people box. these communities, and, at worst, mutes them. that makes it harder for white queer elites in our The Proposition 8 debate has brought much In other words, in leaving out the voices of movement to confront their racism and trans- Copyright 2009 Lambda Publications Inc./Windy City Media consternation and polarization between white LGBTQ communities of color and classes, the phobia. Group; All rights reserved. Reprint by permission only. Back issues available for $3 per issue (postage included). LGBTQ communities and African Americans. same-sex marriage debate is hijacked by a white If African-American LGBTQ people are not in- Return postage must accompany all manuscripts, drawings, And with the expectation of a dominantly upper-class queer universality that not only cluded in the history and in the decision-making and photographs submitted if they are to be returned, and no responsibility may be assumed for unsolicited materials. white marriage-equality movement pushing for- renders these marginalized queer communities issues involving queer life, how then can the All rights to letters, art and photographs sent to Windy ward a single-issue agenda, the movement arro- invisible, but—as it is presently framed—also movement expect our participation, let alone City Times will be treated as unconditionally assigned for publication purposes and as such, subject to editing gantly ignores vital ways for coalition-building renders them speechless. the rest of the African-American community? and comment. The opinions expressed by the columnists, within Black communities, and honorable ways Within and across states, the marriage-equal- Sadly, if racism continues to go unchecked in cartoonists, letter writers, and commentators are their own of connecting their struggle to those of African and do not necessarily reflect the position ofWindy City ity movement persistently dons white leader- the marriage-equality movement it won’t only Times. Publication of the name, photograph, or likeness of Americans. ship. Faces of color become important, visible cost California’s LGBTQ community the right to a person or organization in articles or advertising in Windy But here’s an example that defused the tension City Times is not to be construed as any indication of the and needed to the Marriage Equality movement marry—it will cost us all. sexual orientation of such person or organization. While in much of the heterosexual African-American only when the movement is actually pimping a we encourage readers to support the advertisers who make this newspaper possible, Windy City Times cannot accept responsibility for advertising claims. mented on Beatie’s pregnancy by saying, “It kin- GLBT community’s reaction Beatie’s situation is (773) 871-7610 FAX (773) 871-7609 da [sic] freaked me out at first.” She also asked a complete outrage and it’s one that raises sev- e-mail: [email protected] jamar the question “Is this going to be good for our eral questions: Why is the GLBT leadership look- people?” ing out for their own personal interests? Why is www.WindyCityMediaGroup.com osborne Personally, I think Boylan’s statement has to Thomas Beatie being scapegoated as the person radio: WindyCityQueercast.com be the ultimate betrayal. Here is someone who who may have ruined gay marriage? Since when WINDY CITY MEDIA GROUP, was born a male, married a woman, had chil- did homophobes need an excuse to discriminate 5315 N. Clark St. #192, Chicago, IL 60640 USA dren and then decided to change his gender. against gays? (MAILING ADDRESS ONLY) Now Boylan has the gall to antagonize another Call me a hippie, but I think that unless some- Windy City Times Deadline every Wednesday. Divided and member of the transgender community who is in one’s actions are harming others, people should Nightspots Deadline every Wednesday. a very similar situation. Did Boylan realize the be able to do whatever they want to do. And Identity (BLACKlines and En La Vida): Now conquered: hypocrisy coming out of her mouth? since I have heard no one question Thomas online only Another issue that came up during the inter- Beatie’s parenting, I really don’t see a problem. Deadline The 10th of month prior. OUT! Resource Guide ONLINE Shunned by his view was the fact that Beatie wanted the child’s What Beatie is doing takes balls. Instead of liv- www.WindyCityMediaGroup.com birth certificate to state that he is the father ing in fear and in shame, he is living his life own community and his wife Nancy is the mother. The hospital openly and honestly. He should not be shunned refused his request. Instead, the hospital listed but praised and respected. Until the GLBT com- www.WindyCityMediaGroup.com Divide and conquer was a war strategy used by www.WindyCityQueercast.com Thomas and Nancy as “parent-parent.” Beatie munity learns to stick together, and stop going Julius Caesar. The Gulls were worthy adversaries turned to the American Civil Liberties Union but along to get along, it will remain a community but Caesar was able to overcome them by stir- his case was rejected. that is divided and conquered. ring up conflict between the Gallic tribes and While it is true that hospitals have a compel- Jamar Osborne is a nationally published getting the tribes to fight amongst themselves. ling interest in ensuring accurate medical re- columnist and human rights activist. He has The once fierce warriors became easy prey and cords, it is also true that one doesn’t have to be a juris doctorate from the University of Okla- were ultimately defeated. biologically related to a child to be a mother or homa and a bachelor’s degree in political sci- In some ways, the GLBT community is simi- a father. Oregon laws says that the person who ence from Cameron University. lar to the Gallic tribes. With so much internal gives birth is listed as the mother. Thomas might turmoil, its plight becomes undermined and the have been able to get around this by putting community becomes causalities of its own divi- Windy City Times his health at risk and having the baby at home sion. Case in point—Thomas Beatie, also known is Chicago’s only instead of at the hospital. He could have lied Send letters to Editor@ as “The Pregnant Man.” and said that his wife Nancy was the mother. In- gay publication with Recently, Beatie appeared on ABC for the Bar- WindyCityMediaGroup. stead he chose to be honest and now he’s being bara Walters special “What is a Man? What is a independent, outside penalized for it. What’s worst—there is no one com or Andrew@ Woman?” There were many things in the inter- audit verification of representing his case. view that I found personally disturbing. Chief WindyCityMediaGroup. Many in the gay and lesbian community have circulation by the among them was Beatie’s charge that GLBT rep- conformed to heterosexism. The idea of a trans- com. resentatives told him not to go public with his nationally recognized gendered man having a baby makes them un- pregnancy and not to show pictures of his preg- Letters may be edited firm, Verified Audit easy. This is a classic case of internalized ho- nant belly because it might become a challenge mophobia! On top of being ridiculed, called a for length or clarity. Circulation. in the struggle for gay marriage, hate crimes “freak,” receiving anonymous harassing phone legislation, etc. calls and death threats, Thomas Beatie has been Jennifer Boylan, a transgendered woman com- sold out by his own community. I think the Jan. 7, 2009 11 GOINGS-ON WINDY CITY TIMES’ ENTERTAINMENT SECTION

Photo by Dan Rest/Lyric Opera of Chicago OPERA’S ON Patricia Racette (holding a child in Madama Butterfly) talks about being a lesbian opera star. See below. THEATER MOVIIES MUSIC Taming of the Screw. Hitting the ‘Road.’ Dash away. Page 14. Page 16. Page 18.

Photo courtesy of Fellowship for Photo by Kwaku Alston the Performing Arts

“Personally, we had always been very much out, things,” Racette said. “The first time we spoke Patricia Racette: but it’s another thing where you’re in a public via video Web camera, I was in San Francisco profession and you do that in print.” and Beth was in Munich. That’s really far, but it Out of her cocoon Racette said that she and Clayton haven’t re- does make difference to be able to see the face BY SCOTT C. MORGAN ally experienced any negative response from of your loved one.” the Opera News article, although she admitted Racette and Clayton have been able to work On Tuesday, Dec. 16, 2008, soprano Patricia Rac- that they don’t know the exact reasons why they in the same city at the same time on rare occa- ette was supposed to appear at a Lyric Opera would get passed over for a role. sions. In the summer of 2003, Racette and Clay- of Chicago Discovery Series symposium on Puc- The fact that Racette and Clayton’s continue ton both starred together as sisters in Tchaik- cini’s 1904 opera Madama Butterfly. But thanks to be hired by the world’s leading opera houses ovsky’s Eugene Onegin. Racette was Tatyana and to that day’s massive snowstorm that walloped shows practically no detrimental effects. (Chi- Clayton was Olga. the Windy City, Racette didn’t make it. cago audiences might remember Clayton’s recent Then there was the autumn of 2007, when Rac- “I felt terrible that I couldn’t be there because turns at the Lyric Opera of Chicago as Maddelena ette was starring as Madama Butterfly for the I was all dressed up with nowhere to go,” Rac- in Rigoletto in 2006 and Antonia in the world Metropolitan Opera, while across the plaza of ette said, noting the irony in having a Madama premiere of William Bolcom’s A Wedding in Lincoln Center Clayton was appearing in the title Butterfly symposium without the Butterfly. 2005.) role of Carmen for the New York City Opera. With a severe scarcity of available taxis, Rac- “I don’t feel like I can be effective as an artist “Goodness gracious, our friends and family all ette considered trudging through the thick snow if I’m not honest about who I am and if I don’t descended upon New York City because it was a for what she estimated would have been a 20- share with the world perhaps what is the most chance to see us both at the same time,” Rac- minute walk. But she decided against it. joyous thing in my life, which is my relation- ette said. She was surprised at how harmonious “I could not in good conscience go there the ship with Beth,” Racette said. “Hiding it sort of it went, since Racette expected some conflict night before a show—that would have been ir- seems shameful and I’m not the least bit shame- over their nervousness of playing such iconic responsible,” Racette said, pointing out how op- Patricia Racette. Photo by Devon Cass ful about it.” roles in such important houses. era singers have to take precautions to stave off Racette and Clayton met in 1997 when they Racette and Clayton attribute the strength of colds and other maladies. atic repertory in Italian (La Boheme, Turandot), were both cast in production of Verdi’s La Tra- their relationship partially to the fact that they Disappointed opera fans who missed out on Czech (Jenufa), and French (Faust, Dialogues des viata at Santa Fe Opera. Racette was playing the both understand the rigors of being in the opera seeing Racette up close and personal have an- Carmelites), expect some first-hand insights into consumptive courtesan Violetta, while Clayton business. That, and the fact that they’re both other chance. She and Lyric Opera of Chicago linguistics. was Flora, her friend and confidante. different voice types, so they’re not in competi- dramaturg Roger Pines appear for a special inter- But one aspect of Racette’s jet-setting career “The energy between us was palpable and, tion with each other for the same roles. view at the Center on Halsted, 3656 N. Halsted, is sure to be interest to LGBT audiences: Rac- frankly, it was a force not to be denied,” Racette “Gosh, I can’t even imagine that if we were on Thursday, Jan. 22. ette’s life as an out lesbian. said, joking how it was probably the first time both sopranos or mezzos,” Racette laughed, say- “Hopefully people will come as a matter of Racette publicly came out in a 2002 edition of Violetta ran off with Flora instead of the opera ing that they would constantly be bickering like, compensation for my [earlier] absence,” Racette Opera News that featured her on the cover. tenor Alfredo. “You got that Butterfly? I wanted that!” said. “They approached me almost a year before say- Those happy memories are what prompted Patricia Racette is interviewed by Lyric Op- Expect Racette to talk a lot about Puccini’s ing they wanted to do a cover on me and it had Racette and Clayton to make a home together era of Chicago dramaturg Roger Pines Thurs- tragic 15-year-old geisha heroine, Cio-Cio-San. nothing to do with my sexuality,” Racette said. in Santa Fe. The two had a commitment cer- day, Jan. 22, at the Center on Halsted, 3656 It’s one of Racette’s signature roles and she is “In fact, [interviewer Eric Myers] asked me at emony in 2005 with both of their families in N. Halsted, at 7 p.m. as part of the “Sing performing it in Chicago for the first time in the the time of the interview six months before the attendance. (Clayton’s parents even paid for the OUT” lecture series. Tickets are $10; $5 for Lyric’s 1982 production by Tony Award-winning article came out if I would like to be open about reception.) students and seniors. Visit www.centeronhal- director Harold Prince. my personal life.” Unfortunately, Racette and Clayton’s separate sted.org for more information. Opera devotees are also in for a treat since Racette says that she and her partner, mezzo- opera careers often means they spend months Madama Butterfly continues for seven more Racette will be sharing anecdotes about ap- soprano Beth Clayton, had talked before the in- apart from each other. Opera singers often have performances through Jan. 29 at the Lyric pearing many world-premiere operas like Carlisle terview about whether to open up about their no control over their singing engagements other Opera of Chicago, 20 N. Wacker. Tickets are Floyd’s Cold Sassy Tree and Tobias Picker’s Emme- relationship. than saying “yes” or “no” to them years in ad- $32-$197. Call 312-332-2244 ext. 5600, or line and An American Tragedy. And since Chicago “For various reasons, we waited until the ap- vance. visit www.lyricopera.org. audiences have seen Racette sing varied oper- propriate moment in our lives,” Racette said. “Thank God for Skype and iChat and those 12 Jan. 7, 2009 the burden of guilt over her “selfishness?” The cast assembled by director Michael Ryc- zek for this Redtwist Theatre production conveys with vivid intimacy the challenges represented by McPherson’s three generations of flawed hu- man beings facing their ultimate fate, while never neglecting the text’s considerable hu- mor—Aunt Ruth’s implanted electronic device, for example, or a scene at Disney World where Bessie faints and is rescued by a strolling Goofy- costumed actor. Seventeen years after the epidemic that claimed the life of its author, it would be simple to view Marvin’s Room solely as social propagan- da connected with AIDS’ early years, its emo- tions heavily weighted toward a single directive. But in 2009, its milieu can just as reasonably be perceived as a caveat on the American medical-industrial complex and its reliance on profit-motivated technology. (The perimeter of Redtwist’s storefront auditorium is decorated by The Illusion. Photo by Jordan Mann hundreds—hundreds!—of prescription-labeled vials. How many convalescent-home dumpsters THEATER REVIEW stiff Steve Gensler). Theatre Ensemble’s take on The Illusion, but this supplied the scenic designer and property crew Things get more complex As Alcandre’s conjur- crucial one lessens its introspective impact. this hoard of discarded pharmaceuticals?) If The Illusion ing continues and Pridamant comments on the McPherson’s legacy sends us home with no other Playwright: Tony Kushner actions. There’s an appearance by a comic brag- THEATER REVIEW lesson, it is that comfort in our last days will after Pierre Corneille gart named Matamore (Blake Williams doing his come, not from overworked doctors or smug bu- At: Promethean Theatre Ensemble utmost to be ridiculously florid), while the char- Marvin’s Room reaucrats, but from human resources—that’s you at City Lit, 1020 W. Bryn Mawr acters show darker sides to their motivations. By Playwright: Scott McPherson and me, by the way—whether of the hands-on Phone: 773-305-2897; $20 the time the dark conclusion is reached, former At: Redtwist Theatre, 1044 W. Bryn Mawr or the support-from-afar variety. Runs through: Jan. 17 lovers prove to be adulterous and deceitful. Phone: 773-728-7529; $22-$30 Director Russell Berns stages things simply, Runs through: Jan. 31 BY SCOTT C. MORGAN but effectively. Lighting designer Tamar Geist River North Dance presents simple colored pools of light for the ac- BY MARY SHEN BARNIDGE doc on WTTW Jan. 11 There’s a crucial performance in Promethean tors to shine in, while set designer Roger Wykes River North Chicago Dance Company’s hour- Theatre Ensemble’s staging of Tony Kushner’s offers just a few rotating flats in three shades of Scott McPherson’s look at “dying as a way of life” long documentary, Every Dancer Has A Story The Illusion that is seriously lacking. By the color. opens with two people well on their way to that will air on local station WTTW-11 Sunday, time the play makes its final revelation, it’s not Costumer Jeanne Jones is much more helpful final departure—an elderly spinster and her bed- Jan. 11, at 3 p.m. as emotionally earth-shattering or introspective by serving up outfits that are fairytale-like, then ridden brother, the latter of whom we meet only The documentary precedes the company’s as it could be. later more Hellenic as things become akin to a as a series of offstage coughs, grunts and whim- annual Chicago engagement at the Harris Yet don’t let that discourage you from seeing Greek tragedy. Stephen F. Murray’s fight chorog- pers—along with their caretaker, Bessie, who Theater, 205 E. Randolph, on Feb. 13-14. Kushner’s freely adapted take on Pierre Cor- raphy could have been more dynamic, but that has just learned that she may have contracted Tickets are $30-$65 for the February engage- neille’s 1636 comedy L’illusion comique. Kush- might have betrayed the ultimate illusion that leukemia. The search for a bone-marrow donor ments; visit www.harristheaterchicago.org. ner’s adaptation celebrates the abilities and the play is offering up. brings her estranged sister home, accompanied failures of storytelling to prompt people to look Now onto the performance that makes Pro- by two young sons. Lee and Charley currently at their own frailties. methean Theatre Ensemble’s production less ef- live in a shelter, a consequence of teenage Hank Richard The plot hinges on wealthy lawyer Pridamant fective than it could be: the one by Weber as the torching the family house, for which he has been (Tom Weber), who makes an arduous journey to contrite and curious father, Pridamant. incarcerated in a mental institution. Chamberlain magician Alcandre (John Christopher Brown) to Throughout the visions of his son’s life, Prida- In 1992, there was little doubt as to where part of ‘Spamalot’ find out what has happened to his banished son. mant’s makes interjections of approval and utter our sentiments should lie: Bessie stoutly de- Legendary entertainer Richard Chamberlain Alcandre then presents visions of Pridamant’s despair by the end. These need to be as realis- clares her lifelong devotion to her impaired el- will star as King Arthur when Monty Python’s son’s life with the aid of his servant, Amanu- tic and heart-wrenching as possible, but Weber ders to be all the fulfillment she desires, while Spamalot, the Tony Award-winning Best Mu- ensis (Ed Rutherford). The odd thing is that the doesn’t deliver the goods. Lee’s flight from an environment centered upon sical of 2005, plays Chicago’s Auditorium characters’ names keep on changing in the sce- So when the final revelation is made, Prida- disease and death (with even characters figur- Theatre of Roosevelt University, 50 E. Con- narios (including Pridamant’s son, played by a mant’s about-face lacks the weight needed to ing only in passing anecdotes dying untimely) gress, for a limited engagement Jan. 20-Feb. strapping Nick Lake). question the whole enterprise you’ve just seen manifesting itself in one destructive choice af- 1, 2009. Tickets are $25-$90, with premium Things start off lightly as in a romantic comedy (and at that, Kushner’s questioned notion of ter another. But if every cripple finds its crutch, seats going for $125-$150. Call 312-902- with a hopelessly-in-love heroine (a spirited De- storytelling being an educational tool for the and vice versa, could not Bessie’s self-sacrifice 1400 or visit www.BroadwayInChicago.com. von Candura), her wily lady-in-waiting (a com- betterment of mankind). also have been fueled by an unwillingness to manding Anne Korajczyk) and a romantic rival (a There aren’t too many failings in Promethean shoulder the risks of adulthood? And could Lee have made more of her independence without SPOTLIGHT

Economic times may be grim, but there is a relatively cheap way to turn your frown upside down: The 8th Annual Chicago Sketch Comedy Festival. Revel in this laugh-filled festival which features more than 100 sketch comedy troupes performing 131 shows in eight days. And if you want to be a part of the comedy, the festival also features workshops and seminars for those who might be considering a career in comedy. The Chicago Sketch Comedy Festival plays Jan. 8-18 at the Theatre Building Chicago, 1225 W. Belmont. Tickets are $12.50 per show, and Marvin’s Room. $150 for an all-festival pass. Call 773-327-5252 or visit www.chicagosketchfest.com. Photo of Bri-Ko courtesy of Guy F. Wicke Jan. 7, 2009 13 14 Jan. 7, 2009 THEATER REVIEW ghoulish raked set which is a mix of cozy study and the Parisian catacombs piled with human CRITICS’ PICS The Screwtape femurs and skulls. Other technical elements are great, ranging Don’t Dress for Dinner, Royal George The- Letters from Tyler Micoleau’s spooky lighting effects to ater, through March 11. How much fun is Playwright: Jeffrey Fiske and Michael Bevins’ fun Toadpipe costume. Bart Fas- this rambunctious farce? Imagine playing Max McLean after C.S. Lewis bender’s sound design of whooping letter deliv- bumper cars after inhaling a tank full o’ ni- At: Mercury Theatre, 3745 N. Southport eries and thunderous hellfire is also effective. trous oxide. Down to the last Freudian slip Phone: 773-375-1700; $29-$48.50 There’s no denying that everything in The (and provocative slip), this inspired cast of Runs through: Feb. 15 Screwtape Letters is professionally produced and zanies are a giddy delight. CS packaged under co-author Fiske’s direction. But La Rondine, Metropolitan Opera High- BY SCOTT C. MORGAN one would like some more variety in it, since it Definition Simulcast in area movie theaters, practically consists only of Screwtape dictating Jan. 10. The “Love Couple” of soprano An- It’s hard not to love a Disney animated villain. a series of letters. gela Gheorghiu and tenor Roberto Alagna Most are so clever, so urbane and so terrifying And if you’re not a diehard Christian, The are known for being holy terrors offstage. that they outshine the goody-two-shoe heroes. Screwtape Letters certainly won’t make you feel But onstage, the married couple makes This might help explain why Jeffrey Fiske and welcome. The whole thrust of the play operates beautiful music together. See them both Max McLean’s adaptation of The Screwtape Let- under the premise that salvation is only attain- in director Nicholas Joël’s lovely Art Deco ters has found such success at Chicago’s Mercury able through Christ. It also blatantly suggests resetting of Puccini’s 1917 operetta-hybrid Theatre. (It has been extended through mid- that the rest of us who don’t live up to heaven’s romance. SCM February.) Although based upon a 1942 novel standards will become flesh for Hell’s demons to Million Dollar Quartet, Apollo Theatre, of the same name by C.S. Lewis (best known for feast upon. through January 24. Not a greatest-hits ret- his Chronicles of Narnia books), The Screwtape The Screwtape Letters offers a black-and-white rospective, but replication of a pivotal mo- Letters—on stage—feels more like it’s making a view of morality cloaked in insightful views of ment in American pop-culture history when bid for its title character to enter the annals of human behavior courtesy of an unabashed Chris- the icons of the past and future convened to Disney’s animated villains. tian like C.S. Lewis. If that sounds too simplistic make music. This reminds us why rock-and- The traits are all there for the demonic and judgmental, go at least to see what could roll never died. MSB Screwtape, a high-ranking official in Hell who easily be the next great Disney villain. Wicked, Ford Center for the Perform- The Screwtape Letters. Photo courtesy of Fel- spends the entire play lecturing and dictating ing Arts, Oriental Theatre, through Jan. lowship for the Performing Arts. on the proper way for its tempting agents to 25. Wicked and its famed Dragon Clock are convert humanity to become food for the dark And like most Disney villains, Screwtape has a ‘Idol’ in ‘Grease’ winding down their time after more than American Idol season five winner Taylor side. Screwtape has an upper-crust British ac- cute sidekick. Yvonne Gougelet plays Toadpipe, three record-breaking years in the Windy Hicks will star in the first national tour of cent, an affected verbosity and a pull-out-all- a tall and limber gargoyle who totters about as City. Don’t miss out on this Broadway spec- Grease, playing Chicago on a limited engage- the-stops rage scene when his malevolent plans Screwtape’s personal secretary and stenographer. tacular that offers a revisionist take on The ment through Jan. 18 at the Auditorium The- face failure. Gougelet makes Toadpipe endearing with a mut- Wizard of Oz. SCM atre, 50 E. Congress. Co-author McLean is clearly reveling in this tering voice like Looney Toons’ Tasmanian Devil, —By Barnidge, Morgan Tickets are $26-$85. Call 312-902-1400 or chance to pour the oil on as a pompous know-it her penchant of nibbling on human bones and and Sullivan visit www.Ticketmaster.com. who dispenses condescending missives on hu- her facial expressions to illustrate Screwtape’s man failings to his unseen nephew and junior points about human frailty. tempter, Wormwood. All this plays out on Cameron Anderson’s

Medical examiners couldn’t confirm the cause Entertainment of death of the seemingly healthy Homme. The 2008 AfterElton Visibility Awards—

news bestowed upon media images that readers International pop star Kylie Minogue will thought best represented gay and bisexual release a brand-new collection of remixes of men—are out. The categories included Man of her classic songs, entitled Boombox The Remix the Year (awarded to those who joined in pro- Album 2000-2008, on Jan. 27 on Astralwerk tests after Prop 8 passed), Favorite TV Drama Records, according to an EMI Music release. (Torchwood), Favorite TV Comedy (Ugly Betty), There will be remixes of such songs as Slow, Favorite Straight Ally (Brad Pitt, over Keith Ol- Come Into My World and Can’t Get You Out of bermann and Kathy Griffin) and Favorite Les- My Head. bian (Ellen DeGeneres). Katy Perry, the Indigo Girls and Uh Huh Chris Noth, Sex and the City’s Mr. Big, is Her are the scheduled headliners for the conti- closing his New York nightclub, The Cutting nous lesbian-themed party known as The Dinah Room—10 years after opening the venue in 2009, which will take place in Palm Springs, the city where the hit TV show was set, ac- Calif., April 1-5. Tickets will go on sale Jan. 1; cording to IMDB.com. Joan Rivers will give the see www.thedinah.com. final show Jan. 13. Speaking of the Indigo Girls, the acclaimed Singer Adele—known for her hit song Chas- duo has launched their own imprint, IG Re- ing Pavements—has revealed that her new cordings, to release their first studio album song, Daydreamer, is about her doomed love in three years, according to a company press for a bisexual guy, according to PinkNews. release. Emily Saliers and Amy Ray’s new 2-CD co.uk. The 19-year-old crooner said, “I had no album, Poseidon And The Bitter Bug; one CD problem with him being bisexual, but I can’t has a full band version of songs and the other fight off girls and boys; I get jealous enough has acoustic versions of the same tunes, and a as it is.” bonus track. Pamela Anderson stunned a studio audience watching The Osbournes record their television show by flashing her breasts to the crowd, according to IMDB.com. The Baywatch beauty’s chest spilled out of her dress while she was filming a guest slot for the upcoming variety show Osbournes: Reloaded, which is hosted by Sharon, Ozzy, Kelly and Jack Osbourne. Hunky Twilight actor Taylor Lautner is working out in an attempt to convince the movie’s producers he should reprise his role in the forthcoming sequel, New Moon, accord- ing to IMDB.com. Reportedly, the franchise’s bosses feel that Lautner does not physically measure up to the character, as described in the books. Todd Homme, 23, from the Lifetime Channel’s ‘Sweets’ sensation new reality hit Blush: The Search for the Next Audiences were definitely entertained when Land of the Sweets—a burlesque version of Great Make-Up Artist, was found dead at his Kylie Minogue. the holiday favorite The Nutcracker—blew through town last month. Photos by Steve Starr New York home and the cause was under in- vestigation, according to TVGuide.com. Hom- me was found by his partner, Neal Krogh, 34. Jan. 7, 2009 15 TELEVISION The real girl By Lawrence Ferber Katelynn Since its debut in 1992, MTV’s The Real World Cusanelli. has illuminated televisions nationwide with Photo fresh images of diverse, non-stereotypical and courtesy of real queer young people including its first sea- Tamika Young son’s Norman Korpi (NYC), HIV-positive Cuban Pedro Zamora (San Francisco), bisexual Filipi- na Ruthie Alcaide (Hawaii), African-American Karamo Brown (Philadelphia) and athlete Tyler Duckworth (Key West). With its 21st edition, set in Brooklyn, N.Y., the show welcomes its first transgender cast member, Katelynn Cusanelli, who underwent sexual-reassignment surgery in gay Ordonez. In an effort to make her feel com- Election Night, and he wasn’t alone in his politi- so much tech support in that damn house it’s Thailand just weeks before cameras rolled. fortable and give her the opportunity to disclose cal leanings, according to Cusanelli. “Scott is a not funny! Production asked me to fix that dino- “I was at the point where I needed to do post- her status, he invites her to a one-on-one dinner Republican and lies about being a millionaire,” saur of a computer they gave us.” surgical care and that plays out as a part of the in Manhattan’s very LGBT Chelsea neighborhood. she shared, “and, as a result, wasn’t at all for Now back in Missoula, Mont., with her sup- show,” she chares. “That was a factor while liv- They indeed bond over the evening. Obama!” portive boyfriend, Mike (seen briefly in the first ing there.” Real World producers sought out young people In a later episode, the cast appears at the NYC episode), Cusanelli admitted the experience was In the season premiere, the full cast of eight “with stories to tell” for their 2009 edition. Cu- LGBT Community Center’s Election Night Party life-changing in numerous respects, from her (another Real World first—it’s typically seven sanelli, who decided to audition while waiting (where several cast members volunteered). “Chet personal growth to chosen family. “I expected members, sometimes with an eighth “surprise” with a friend at a casting call, felt she not only surrounded by 400 queers watching a Black man to go in and meet six strangers and maybe walk housemate added later) moves into a giant had a worthy story to share, but saw a great become president—he was a bit uncomfort- away with a friend,” she said, “but I met seven house situated in Brooklyn’s Red Hook neigh- opportunity to contribute to transgendered rep- able!” she recalled with a laugh. “But Chet is far, amazing individuals and walked away with a borhood (which, due to its far-flung placement resentation in the media. far more open-minded than I think people give plethora of friends for life. I have bridesmaids from public transport, has not been gentrified Familiar with the show and the privacy she him credit for. I’m mot sure if he celebrated [the now!” or hipster-saturated, like more predictable and would relinquish if cast—even the bathroom’s passages of] Proposition 8 and Amendment 2. I Does she wish a second trans cast member had expensive settings like Williamsburg or Park several showers are partly transparent—Cu- think that Chet is more for humane treatment of been amongst them? “That was a secret hope Slope). They include West Palm Beach-raised, sanelli was also prepared for the possibility all people rather than rigid dogmatic morality.” of mine,” she admitted, “but in a way I’m glad Montana-based Katelynn, 24; snarky, metro- of a conservative, conflict-stirring Puck-style Cusanelli is frank when fielding questions they didn’t [cast a second such housemate]. If sexual, Salt Lake City Mormon Chet Cannon, housemate. “It’s MTV’s Real World, they’re go- about her castmates and the experience—that, you get two trans people together, they compare 23; Salt Lake City non-Mormon Baya Voce, 21; ing to cast divergent personalities,” she affirms. or she had a mean poker face. She dubbed Sarah, their experiences to see whose is more ‘valid.’ Gettysburg, Penn., Iraq war vet Ryan Conklin, “Singing ‘Kumbaya’ is not how this goes. They’re who previously leaned towards lesbian relation- Two sets of those hormones might not have been 23; Kansas City, Mo., teen-pageant queen Devyn going to cast someone who is the antithesis of ships but is currently involved with a man, a good.” Simone, 20; San Francisco artist Sarah Rice, 22; me just to cause drama, and there was drama bona fide has-bian. Asked whether rumors that The Real World: Brooklyn premieres Wed., muscular Salem, N.H., trainer Scott Herman, 23; because they cast eight people who are strong- Ordonez slept with Anderson Cooper are true, Jan. 7, at 9 p.m. CT. Check www.mtv.com/ and Miami Beach dolphin trainer J.D. Ordonez, willed in their own right.” she brusquely replied, “I have no idea! To be ontv/dyn/real_world_brooklyn/series.jhtml 22. One of those people is Cannon, who seems to honest I wasn’t that concerned with J.D.’s rela- for more information and additional footage. Cusanelli remains mum about being transgen- enjoy, and even encourages, being perceived as tionships. I honestly don’t give a damn.” And, der at first, but a couple of housemates quickly gay. However, his conservative, hetero-identified an admitted tech geek, she was frequently put prove keen transpotters, including the openly Republican side becomes more pronounced by to use by even the production crew: “Oh, I did

J>?IM?DJ;H"HE8;HJ<7BBI:?H;9JI 7 =BE87B ;NFBEH7J?ED0

J>;J>;7JH?97B;L;DJE<J>;O;7H$ _dj^[(' ij Y[djkho

Don’t miss this Global Exploration, where STARTS JANUARY 17, 2009 some of the world’s leading theater companies present their contemporary interpretations of O’Neill’s most daring, innovative dramas. THE EMPEROR JONES The Wooster Group, New York DIRECTED BY ELIZABETH LECOMPTE JANUARY 7-11 HOMENS AO MAR (SEA PLAYS) Companhia Triptal, Brazil DIRECTED BY ANDRÉ GAROLLI JANUARY 14-31 THE HAIRY APE Produced in association with The Hypocrites, Chicago DIRECTED BY SEAN GRANEY FEBRUARY 7-21 BRIAN DENNEHY CARLA GUGINO PABLO SCHREIBER ROUW SIERT ELECTRA (MOURNING BECOMES ELECTRA) Toneelgroep, Amsterdam DIRECTED BY IVO VAN HOVE FEBRUARY 25-28 STRANGE INTERLUDE Produced in association with KD:;HJ>;;BCI The Neo-Futurists, Chicago DIRECTED BY GREG ALLEN MARCH 6-8 TICKETS ON SALE NOW! WITH BORIS MCGIVER AND DANIEL STEWART SHERMAN For a complete description of shows and events, visit GoodmanTheatre.org

GoodmanTheatre.org THE ELIZABETH F. KRAFT FOODS, Principal Sponsor of CHENEY FOUNDATION the free Student Subscription Series. PETTERINO’S, Promotional Sponsor for Lead Corporate Sponsor for Sponsor Partner for Sponsor Partner for Corporate Sponsor Partner for Corporate Sponsor Partner for Sponsor Partner for Exclusive Airline of Desire Under the Elms. Image design 312.443.3800 Eugene O’Neill in the 21st Century Eugene O’Neill in the 21st Century Eugene O’Neill in the 21st Century Eugene O’Neill in the 21st Century Desire Under the Elms Desire Under the Elms Goodman Theatre and direction by Kelly Rickert. 16 Jan. 7, 2009 confrontation and her knuckling under are pow- erful, frightening and depressing). Both vividly demonstrate the hysteria just beneath the polite KNIGHT veneer (as does Bates). The film is as suffocat- ing to watch as its subject matter and has none AT of the suburban crazy fun of American Beauty or THE the dark beauty of Road to Perdition, his master- piece. It gets under your skin, just as The Hours MOVIES and Far From Heaven did, but it left me in a funk as all these kinds of emotionally punishing mov- ies do in which suburban ennui and repression overcome their characters—perhaps because I grew up in the world inhabited by these char- acters and uncomfortably remember arguments heard through the walls late at night. I appreciate the filmmaker’s desire to present a story with such emotional intensity and the actors’ willingness to go down the dark ladder for him, but I also readily admit that this re- Revolutionary Revolutionary Road. union of Kate and Leo will never hold a candle to their first onscreen match-up for me. I much Road (the high-minded Sloan Wilson of his day), the tious one, hemmed in by responsibility and prefer the phony, ersatz, junky old-time romance By Richard Knight, Jr. story of Revolutionary Road is set in a world not laziness. When April suggests that the couple of Titanic. I’ve seen it at least a dozen times and unlike the one inhabited by the characters in sell everything and move to Paris, Frank initially I’m going to book a return trip again right now Kate Winslet and Leonardo DiCaprio are back to- Titanic. We are stuck in the conservative 1950s likes the idea. However, when the exhilaration because, clichéd as that song is, it’s also true— gether 11 years after setting millions of hearts and if the trappings of the characters are not fades, reality sets in and the stage is set for aw- and my heart has gone on and on and on with (including mine) aflame as the doomed lovers in quite as first-class as those of Titanic, the social ful consequences. As in Little Children, Winslet that movie. Yes, I laud the achievement that Titanic. But it’s unlikely that anyone will want conventions are just as rigid in the abhorrent plays a trapped housewife but there is no hunky has been wrought with Revolutionary Road but to romanticize the unfortunate couple they play world of bland suburbia lavishly portrayed in Patrick Wilson for a hot affair to ease the ten- I don’t expect I’ll be in the mood to experience this time out. There are no feel-good “king of the the film. The pristine surroundings inhabited by sion, though neighbors and secretaries abound its bleak sentiments again anytime soon. world” catchphrases in Revolutionary Road, a Frank and April Wheeler, encapsulated by their for both her and DiCaprio. (A bedroom scene be- Check out my archived reviews at www. cautionary tale of suburban ennui. Instead, one picture-perfect home on Revolutionary Road, are tween Frank and his secretary has similarities to windycitytimes.com or www.knightatthemov- character plainly states the theme of the movie no less monstrous than the vast ocean liner was TV’s retro-themed Mad Men, but none of its fun.) ies.com. Readers can leave feedback at the when he comments acridly, “Plenty of people are in Titanic. But this time it’s the structure, rep- A sexual dalliance won’t fix what’s wrong with latter Web site. on to the emptiness, but it takes real guts to see resenting the achievement of the conventional April. Only Frank, in the male-dominated world the hopelessness.” In place of Celine Dion wail- hopes and dreams Frank and April buy into, that of the 1950s, has the power to do that by re- ing on the soundtrack over the Celtic pipes, we remains intact while the more ominous conven- leasing her from her cage. And as April becomes get Thomas Newman’s signature icy percussion, tionality and liability it also represents slowly more and more desperate, the film descends barren piano and strings. If there is lovemaking, drown their relationship (or capsizes, or crashes along with her. it springs from guilt and desperation instead of like an ocean liner striking an iceberg, etc.— The movie’s really a psychological horror story passion, intimacy or desire. But, believe it or feel free to fill in your own metaphoric phrase in which the characters, especially the wife, are not, there are thematic similarities between this here). broken down—much like the spinster Eleanor new film (helmed by American Beauty director The roles are reversed: This time it’s Kate who Vance, played by Julie Harris in The Haunting. Sam Mendes) and Titanic—if one looks closer. is the risk taker, yearning to be free of the so- Like poor Eleanor, who the haunted house wants Based on a novel by cult favorite Richard Yates cial constraints while Leo plays the more cau- to help “come home,” April’s powerful spirit will not be able to overcome the suffocating conven- tions and her husband’s ultimate cowardice en- gulfing her (and as in The Haunting, the perfect house stands ready to trap another couple in its seemingly perfect web). The film turns on a scene in which Kathy Bates (another holdover from Titanic), who memora- bly plays the couple’s realtor, and her husband AMERICAN IDOL bring over their grown paranoid schizophrenic Winner son, John (Michael Shannon), for a “social call.” Shannon—who is funny, sad and moving in his two scenes—plays a character so fed up with TAYLOR HICKS the conventions of the era they’ve driven him Check out this week’s is Teen Angel! nuts. He’s the truth-teller of the piece—the Nightspots to see what author’s voice and the physical embodiment of suburban crazy who speaks the “hopeless” line Marcus Patrick (above) quoted above and whose insights April wants to and Ron Oliver have to escape. say as MAFIA’s special Directing his wife for the first time, Mendes elicits a strong performance from Winslet, who guests. is matched in intensity by DiCaprio (their last Photo of Original Broadway Cast by Joan Marcus

NOW THROUGH JAN.18 s 312-902-1400 s Tickets also available at the Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University and all Broadway In Chicago box offi ces and Ticketmaster retail locations. Groups (20+): 312-977-1710 Jan. 7, 2009 17 cockroach pet/best friend. Special features in- Disc and That: clude a commentary, making-of featurettes and a new animated short, Burn-E. Recent and —Wrangler: Anatomy of an Icon (already out; $19.99): This documentary focuses on the upcoming DVDs life of ‘70s gay-porn king Jack Wrangler—and if being a porn star wasn’t enough, the out enter- —Bigger, Stronger, Faster (already out; tainer married 55-year-old songstress Margaret $26.98): This might sound like a porn film, but Whiting when he was 33. The movie is packed it’s actually a documentary about the controver- with rare footage, celebrity interviews (Bruce sy concerning steroids. Presented from a first- Vilanch, Chi Chi LaRue, Michael Musto and more) person perspective by a seemingly conflicted and a commentary by Wrangler himself. narrator (Chris Bell), the movie ably examines —Yentl: Extended Director’s Edition (Feb. the pros and cons of steroid use and involves 3; $29.98): Face it: You either want it or you Arnold Schwarzenegger, an HIV-affected person, know someone who does. Yentl, the tale of a Bell’s own family—and a muscular cow that has Jewish girl (played by Barbra Streisand, who to be seen to be believed. The DVD (from Mag- also served as producer, director and co-writer) nolia Home Entertainment) includes 40 minutes who disguises herself as a boy in order to pursue of deleted scenes not seen in theaters. (There a religious education, comes out as a two-disc is also a tragic update: Mike Bell, Chris’ brother, set next month. Among the special features are was found dead in a rehab facility Dec. 14 at the The cast of Vicky Christina Barcelona. Streisand’s original concept reel, rehearsal/final age of 37.) film comparisons and storyboard montages for —Donnie Darko: The Blu-Ray Edition (Feb. release will coincide with Lionsgate’s theatrical —Vicky Christina Barcelona (Jan. 27; musical numbers. (Note: It is also being released 10; $34.99): Revisit the visions (and that scary 3-D remake (starring hotties Jaime King and $28.95): Writer/director Woody Allen uses vi- to mark the film’s 25th anniversary.) rabbit) in hi-def when cult classic Donnie Darko Jensen Ackles, among others) of the film that brant Barcelona, Spain, as the backdrop of a —Andrew Davis comes out on Blu-Ray. The movie stars some will be in theaters the same day. sexually charged movie that stars Javier Bardem, very recognizable names, including Jake and —Nixon: The Election Year Edition (already Penelope Cruz, Scarlett Johansson and Rebecca Maggie Gyllenhaal, Drew Barrymore and Patrick out; $29.99): With Frost/Nixon out in theaters, Hall. Two women (Johansson and Hall) are on a Swayze. The disc includes two versions of the it is the perfect time to (re-)release this Oliver holiday in the title city when they encounter a film: a theatrical and a director’s cut—with the Stone-directed film. To many, Oscar winner Sir playboy painter (Bardem) and, later, his ex-wife latter featuring 20 minutes of additional foot- Anthony Hopkins was hypnotizing as Richard (Cruz). People were abuzz about a same-sex kiss age. Nixon. The loaded cast also includes Joan Allen, between Johansson and Cruz in the film—but —Dirty Dancing: Official Dance Workout (al- Ed Harris, Bob Hoskins, James Woods, Paul Sor- the movie offers so much more. ready out; $16.98): I’m going to refrain from vino, David Hyde Pierce and Michael Chiklis— —Wall-E: 3-Disc Special Edition (already using “the time of your life” in reference to this and who knew out actor Wilson Cruz was in it as out; $22.99): One of the most acclaimed films DVD, but the people behind it swear that “ev- well? Special features include two commentar- of the year (it even made Windy City Times’ list eryone can learn to move like Baby and Johnny ies, Charlie Rose’s interview with Stone and a of the best LGBT movies of 2008), Walt Disney with original dance steps and soundtrack favor- documentary, “Beyond Nixon.” Studios’ Wall-E focuses on a garbage-compactor ites.” While the people in the apartment below —Noah’s Arc: Jumping the Broom (Feb. robot (voiced by Ben Burtt) with a big heart who you may grimace with each graceful step you 3; $24.99): The all-new feature-length movie actually holds the future of mankind in the palm take, you can dream about dancing with Patrick about four African-American gay friends in Los of his metal hand. Even though no words are Swayze (or Josef Brown, who is in the theatrical Angeles, Noah’s Arc: Jumping The Broom, cap- spoken for about the first half-hour, this film ul- production currently taking place in Chicago). tures the drama of life and love that were hall- timately says more about love and society than The cast of Noah’s Arc: Jumping the Broom. —Futurama: Into the Wild Green Yonder marks of the LOGO TV series. As you can guess 98 percent of other movies—down to the (ugh) (Feb. 24; $29.98): Twentieth Century Fox by the “Jumping the Broom” part of title, two Home Entertainment presents the fourth and characters aspire to get married—but not before final feature-length epic of the animated sci-fi all sorts of shenanigans take place (with spe- comedy Futurama with this release. Joining the cial appearances from some of the series’ guest saga this time as guest stars are illusionist Penn stars). Special features include a making-of fea- Jillette, hip-hop legend Snoop Dogg and Family turette and cast photo shoots. Guy creator Seth MacFarlane. Among the special —Rent: Filmed Live on Broadway (Feb. 3; goodies is a rather modest documentary, “How $24.95): Rent, the groundbreaking Pulitzer and We Make Futurama So Good.” Tony® Award-winning musical, thrived for well —Gonzo: The Life and Work of Dr. Hunter over a decade on Broadway, and on Sept. 7, S. Thompson (already out; $26.98): Narrated 2008, Sony Pictures Releasing’s new alternative THE MAIDS BY JEAN GENET TRANSLATED BY MARTIN CRIMP DIRECTED BY JIMMY MCDERMOTT by actor Johnny Depp, Gonzo is a documentary programming division The Hot Ticket captured that examines the pivotal moments of Thomp- the final Broadway performance. (This special PERFORMED AT 664 VERNON AVENUE son’s life—including his relationship with the release is timed to the launch of the national Hell’s Angels and his involvement in then-Sen. theater tour of Rent, which begins this month George McGovern’s 1972 presidential campaign. with original Broadway cast members Anthony Among the extras are a commentary from the Rapp, Adam Pascal and others.) Now’s your “THE ACTRESSES ARE director (Alex Gibney, who also helmed Enron: chance to sing Seasons of Love repeatedly— The Smartest Guys in the Room), deleted scenes until the neighbors call the authorities, at least. MAGNIFICENT.” and photo galleries. Special features include “Rent: The Final Days – CHICAGO SUN-TIMES —Half a Person (already out; $26.99): Two on Broadway”—a retrospective documentary best friends—one straight, one gay—travel featuring the cast and crew. “ACCOMPLISHED AND from their small town in Canada to Toronto. As —Salò, or the 120 Days of Sodom (already one can imagine, the journey is emotional as out; $39.95): Pier Paolo Pasolini’s controversial PROVOCATIVE.” well as geographical. Outtakes are also featured final film, Salò, or the 120 Days of Sodom, has – CHICAGO TRIBUNE in this Ariztical Entertainment release. been called depraved, but it’s also been hailed —Murnau, Borzage and Fox (Dec. 9; as a masterpiece. The polemic poet, novelist and filmmaker’s transposition of the Marquis “BRILLIANT.” $239.98): This set showcases 12 releases - PIONEER PRESS from legendary directors F.W. Murnau and Frank de Sade’s 18th-century opus of torture to 1944 Borzage (in collaboration with studio head Wil- Fascist Italy is all but guaranteed to provoke de- liam Fox) that are new to DVD. These films from bate with viewers. Special features of the film, the 1920s and ‘30s include Murnau’s Sunrise and originally released in 1975, include “The End of $40 TICKETS STILL AVAILABLE. City Girl as well as Borzage’s 7th Heaven and Salò,” a 40-minute documentary about the film’s Lucky Star. Each film comes with its own extras, final scene. such as still galleries, theatrical trailers and, in —Tyler Perry’s The Family That Preys (Jan. ORDER TODAY! some cases, commentaries. 13; $29.95): Academy Award winner Kathy —My Bloody Valentine: Special Edition Bates and Oscar nominee Alfre Woodard star as (Jan. 16; $19.98): What’s Disc and That with- the matriarchs of two very different families be- out a little horror? A terrifying tale about a ing torn apart by greed and scandal. The movie small town that faces horrifying consequences also stars Sanaa Latham, Taraji P. Henson (cur- WRITERSTHEATRE.ORG for holding a holiday dance on the anniversary rently winning raves as Brad Pitt’s mother in The of deadly tragedy, My Bloody Valentine: Special Curious Case of Benjamin Button) and Rockmond Edition contains all-new special features includ- Dunbar (who has played gay in such films as 847 - 242 - 6000 WRITERS’ ing an interactive horror film history. The DVD’s Dirty Laundry and the groundbreaking Punks). 2008/09 Season Sponsor: Mary Winton Green Media Sponsor: THEATRE 18 Jan. 7, 2009 funds for homeless women with children. Mary comedy/cirque event] Teatro Zinzanni; a large Wilson [of the Supremes] and I did a couple of amount of the gay community came out and concerns on World AIDS Day, and I spoke with showed me so much love. children at risk. All that came about when I WCT: You’re rehearsing for a performance at was injured for four and a half years; I couldn’t the Apollo. Are you nervous at all? walk. SD: You never feel too sure of yourself. I re- I started working on my inspirational CD even ally want our music to be right, and this is our though I couldn’t perform like I wanted to. I en- first major public show. I am a bit nervous but hanced my speaking and used my testimony to I’m hopeful. It’s really important that it sounds uplift and help other people. I’ve only been off right. the cane for two and a half years. My manager WCT: I think it’s good to be a little nervous. was always encouraging me. Otherwise, you may not really care about some I had the surgery and went through different aspects of the show or be overconfident. physical therapies; I had a torn ligament and SD: I bet you’re right about that. When I think meniscus. It took them almost a year before about being nervous before the show, I’m going they found out what the problem was. Plus, I to think, “Andrew, I’m coming for you.” [Both got divorced in the process. But out of all that laugh.] came who I am today. When life deals you lem- LaBelle will perform at the Chicago Theatre, ons, you make lemonade. 175 N. State, on Saturday, Jan. 10, at 8 p.m. Also, the gay community has been incredibly See www.ticketmaster.com. supportive. It was very inspiring when I went to San Francisco last year and did [the cabaret/

LaBelle. Photo by Kwaku Alston

him that we’d be in the studio making demos MUSIC to see what sounded good, and he came by. We played [the song] Superlover, and he asked, A Dash of “When did you all do that?” We said “Today,” and he asked, “You all sound like that today?” LaBelle [Both laugh.] And he said, “Count me in.” BY ANDREW DAVIS WCT: Do you have any other favorite songs on the CD besides Dear Rosa? In the 1960s and 1970s, the trio LaBelle (con- SD: One song I was kinda iffy about was How sisting of Patti LaBelle, Nona Hendryx and Sarah Long—but I now love it. I haven’t put the CD on Dash) shook up the music world with its unique in a minute, but I also really like System. Shed a take on funk, rock and soul—most notably with Tear for the World is powerful. We could go down its smash hit, Lady Marmalade. Now, more than the list. three decades after breaking up, the group has When we got with [songwriter/producer Ken- reunited with an album (Back to Now) and a neth] Gamble, I saw Gamble and [professional ‘The Annie Lennox Collection’ out in Feb. tour that will include a Jan. 10 stop in Chicago. partner Leon] Huff being inducted into the Rock The Annie Lennox Collection—featuring the most successful female British artist in pop Windy City Times talked with the very affable and Roll Hall of Fame, and Patti sang If You music history—will be available Feb. 10, courtesy of Arista Records. This 14-song retrospec- Dash last month about reuniting, gay audiences Don’t Know Me By Now. Then, Nona brought a tive brings together the acclaimed artist’s finest solo work on a single disc for the first time, and Dash’s own life, which has had its share of song and I told Patti, “I feel that Gamble and and includes a pair of new songs available exclusively with this release. drama. Huff could do some justice to this song. Let’s among the tracks on the CD will be No More I Love You’s, Cold, A Whiter Shade of Pale and Windy City Times: What spurred LaBelle’s get them to produce it.” Gamble was supposed Little Bird. The collection also features Sing, a song that references The SING Campaign, a reunion? to do one song and he did five. humanitarian organization Lennox founded to raise awareness and support for the HIV/AIDS Sarah Dash: It just seemed so right. Patti’s The other thing is that we used live musi- pandemic in Africa. manager had told her, “You all have to make cians—horns and strings; maybe we’ll be able to incorporate some of that in our live shows as time to do this.” When Patti would say that La- sos and related drinks—and all that Dish List well. Then, Wyclef Jean did [the song] Roll Out. RESTAURANTS Belle has come back together, people would yell tried were especially tasty. Espessone is espresso Some people comment that Patti uses a Vocoder and clap so much. And Nona said, “Pat, you can’t topped with flavored light mousse (in flavors on that song, but because she can sing, that Dish List play with people like that,” and Patti would say, By ANDREW DAVIS such as caramel and chocolate), while espresso makes it more interesting. It wasn’t meant to “I do plan on us [reuniting].” nocciolato and espresso autunnale will make any- hide her talent; when you have a singer as tal- We had an opportunity to sing on a project Dish list spotlights a hot new Streeterville cafe, one a fan of the hazelnut spread Nutella. ented as her, you can do anything with it—and that Nona brought to the table called Preaching Espression by Lavazza. In addition, the staff was especially friendly, it’s not an insult to her listeners. to the Choir; it was a theme song to the film The U.S. launch of Espression by Lavazza, It- with De Marinis adding that he is “training peo- Coming where I’ve come from: Doing jazz [of the same name]. When we were going to do aly’s leading coffee company (that was founded ple to recognize customers” by their orders as and blues; singing on The Rolling Stones’ Steel that, Nona said, “I have this song called Dear in 1895), has occurred in Chicago at the Drake well as their faces. He said that his goal is to Wheels CD; and [currently] recording an inspira- Rosa [on Back to Now] that I think we should do Hotel, 140 E. Walton. However, despite (or may- “make people comfortable.” The prices, by the tional album... One guy said he wanted to hear as well.” Then Pat called me and was like, “Girl, be because of) the tony address and the chaos way, are quite reasonable, leading Ertsas to say more of my voice on the [LaBelle] CD, and I said, did you hear the playback on that song? We still on nearby Michigan Avenue, the cafe is a sedate that Espression is, essentially, “affordable luxu- “We’re unselfish women. We go for what works have it.” Dear Rosa really gets to my heart; Nona getaway. ry.” for the music; it’s not based upon individual is such a good songwriter and singer—which is Espression by Lavazza takes Lavazza’s passion The hours for Espression are 6 a.m.-9 p.m. need, but upon LaBelle doing the best possible a rare thing in this industry. and creativity in coffee and beautifully chan- Sunday-Thursday; and 6 a.m.-10 p.m. Friday and work for each song.” WCT: And speaking of this album, I’ve lis- nels them into a single physical space. Lavazza Saturday. WCT: I was looking at the liner notes of the tened to it quite a few times. The song Sys- Director of Marketing Ann Ertsas told Dish List Lavazza cafes are in the Loop at 111 W. Jack- CD, and I read at one point that “Back to Now tem has this distinct ‘70s groove, and Truth that Espression “touches all the senses”—a jus- son, 134 N. LaSalle, 27 W. Washington and 162 is about showing that love lives on.” Could Will Set You Free has me chair-dancing if I’m tifiable conclusion. Chic art on the walls often E. Ohio. See www.Espression.com and www.La- you talk about that? sitting down. dazzle; the sleek counters, chairs and even ca- vazza.com. SD: Well, love does live on. Some people may SD: [Laughs] Nona laid that lead out, didn’t rafes are made of various materials just begging divorce or break up, and they can’t be friends— she? to be touched; cool music is piped in through but the moment you see that person, you re- WCT: So who made the first move to record the speakers; and the smells of the items there member the love. Even though we were divided a whole CD? are comforting, to say the least. and doing our own individual things, our love SD: Of course, we’re dealing with Patti’s sched- Ah, yes: the menu items. Espression has for each other lives on. We’re like sisters. ule being so busy; she has a new cookbook that enough tasty items to entice anyone, at any WCT: People tend to know more about Patti teaches people how to eat [healthfully]. Patti time of the day. Training Manager Giancarlo De or Nona—but what have you been doing since has really made a conscious effort to really Marinis served an amazing array of sandwiches 1976 [when LaBelle split]? get people to get well and to cook well. She’s and other treats such as involtini di salmone af- SD: I did three recordings for Kirshner Records a fabulous cook—but when she found out she fumicato, smoked salmon roll-ups with aspara- [Sinner Man, Ooh La La Too Soon and Leaving had diabetes, she made a conscious effort to put gus, cream cheese and mixed greens. Another Again]. Then, I did some work for Patrick Crow- together a cookbook that would have food that item, prosciutto e brie panino, played up the ley and sang on a couple songs with [gay disco tastes good and is good for you. salty and sweet beautifully with its combination icon] Sylvester. Then, I went on the cabaret/jazz So, with everything she was doing, we had to of prosciutto, Brie cheese and fig conserve on circuit. plan around that. But when we did Preaching to a panini bread. The gelatos were sublime, with I presented a biographical and theatrical the Choir and Dear Rosa, that’s when we made such flavors as pistachio, chocolate and lemon. piece, Crossroads. I did a lot of club work. a more conscious effort to put this CD together. However, it’s the signature espressos that re- My organization, Dash Inc., started raising Nona had run into Lenny Kravitz and she told ally shine. There are literally dozens of espres- Jan. 7, 2009 19 REAL ESTATE FOR SALE shopping & Metra train. Great opportunity to customize. 34TH-FLOOR EDGEWATER STUDIO: Spectacular west TWO BEDROOM 799,000/750,000 Call Jamie @ 773-875-7962 view, floor-to-ceiling windows. Hardwood floors. ANDERSONVILLE 3-FLAT: Large, sunny 3rd floor OUT OF TOWN or view at: www.chicagoironmanproperties.com Front door access to Loop express bus. Short walk to apartment steps from Clark street. 2 bedrooms, FOR SALE HOTEL: 46 room national flag hotel, construct- (10/08/08-4) L. Back door access to park, beaches. $128,900. Call hardwood floors, large rooms, separate dining room, ed 2000, Saugatuck, Michigan. John Mandich, Marcus 312-206-9709 (09/17/08-4) sunporch, free laundry in basement. Available Feb. 1. & Millichap 248- 415-2628. (12/03/08-2) CONDO $1,450/ mo includes heat. 312-909-0052. CONDO SOUTH HAVEN, MICH 3BR/3BA: Sharp 1-1/2 REDUCED BY $96,000: Exquisite 2400 SF Duplex Down FOR RENT FOR RENT $2,300/MO: 1400sf 2 Bedroom 2 Bath Lincoln story unit best location steps to beach, finest owner $ 529,000. Italian Cabinetry and Brazilian floors, 3br - Park/Lakeview Condo. Spacious, upscale unit. Hardwood care. $439,000 Call Genie for listing info, pics, map. 2ba - 2fpl s/s app. Balcony + 1car garage w/ roof deck. STUDIO floors throughout. Gas Fireplace. Washer/dryer in unit. HomeFinders Realty 269-637-3775 homefinderssh@ Pictures @ www.caminorealre.com or 773-412-4545. 1332 W. HOOD AVE. - EDGEWATER STUDIO: Sunny Large front AND back decks/balconies. Modern Kitchen comcast.net (09/03/08-4) (12/10/08-4) studios with all utilities included. Laundry in building. with granite countertops and breakfast bar. Tandem FABULOUS HARBOR COUNTRY COTTAGE: Near Down- 100% REHAB, 1,750 SF, $375,000, 4415 BEACON: Close to trans. & shopping. Credit check required. 2-car outside parking space. Master bath has duel town New Buffalo. Hand crafted Arts and Crafts cottage. Fab xtra lg 2BR 2BA w sun rm, den, sep LR/DR/open $585/mo w/ no dep. One avail. Jan. another in Feb. granite sinks , stand alone shower and Jacuzzi bathtub. 2 Bdrm w/ Studio. Private retreat. Please contact for kit Cosco laundry/storage rm, pkg incl. Koenig&Strey Winter Special: One Month Free! 773-392-4550. $2,300/ mo. Includes tandem parking. Pets OK! www. details and photos. 602-295-8331 traveleer@mac. 312-502-3520 [email protected]. www.landstarrealty.com. (1/21/09-4) unlimitedapartments.com Diane 773-871-2434. com for photos (9/03/08-8) (10/29/08-1) (12/31/08-3) GREAT INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITY! LAKE GENEVA WIS- LAKEVW HUGE, SUNNY PENTHSE DUPLEX: Spread out ONE BEDROOM 2032 W. FARRAGUT, #G: Oversized 1500/sq ft English CONSIN: Approximately 1 acre property. Vintage brick entertain in style. 3 BR plus den 3BA. Open Kit/DR/LR. SOUTH LOOP HIGH RISE ACROSS FROM SOLDIER FIELD: garden home with 9.5 ceilings, large living/dining Victorian. Approximately 2,700 Sq. ft with luxury guest Lux master suite w/spa bath. Two priv decks. Garage 1 bdrm.+ den, 1 1/2 bath inc. parking. Hardwood floors, combo, wood-burning fireplace, two nice sized house. 2.5 new garage, 1 vintage garage. Totally updat- incl. $659,000. Koenig & Strey,GMAC 312-502-3520 granite, s/s appls., w/d. Small dog OK. Bldg. has workout bedrooms, in-unit washer/dryer, maple/granite kitchen ed. 2 blocks from lake, 4 blocks from downtown. Many [email protected]. (10/29/08-1) facility, 24 hour doorman. $1,750/ mo. unfurnished, with plenty of counter space and room for eat-in dining. uses, business zoning. Now used as B&B. $649,000 EDGEWATER PENTHOUSE FOR SALE: 2BR/2BA 5855 N. $1,700/ mo. furnished. You pay electric & internet. Two car tandem parking too! Close to Andersonville, for sale by owner. Call toll free 1-877-249-0632. Sheridan - Highly desirable 26th Floor penthouse unit, $2,000 sec. deposit required. 1 year lease. Available Lincoln Square and public transportation. $1,600/ (3/26/08-4) most exclusive tier in building “A” W/views of lake, January 15, 2009. 312-399-8491. (1/15/09-5) mo. Email [email protected]. Mary Bowler, beach, and skyline from 3 private balconies. SS Appl 1525 W. ESTES AVE. - ROGERS PARK 1BR: Sunny 1BR Realtor, @properties. (12/31/08-4) HOUSES kitchen, braz cherry floors, granite bathrooms, custom with HWF & heat included. Laundry in building. Close EVANSTON NEW CONSTRUCTION: Two New Construction paint and lighting - turn key condo - steps to beach! to trans. & shopping. Credit check required. $665/mo Homes. High-end Finishes, Gourmet Kitchen, Priced to move at $384,750, includes 1 parking w/ no dep. Winter Special: One Month Free! Avail. Hardwood Floors, Rooftop terrace, and Master Suite spot and 1 year of free assessments! Please call Jan. 10th. 773-392-4550. www.landstarrealty.com. with Balcony. Four Bedrooms, 3 full & 2 Half Baths. 847-833-.4955 to set up a private showing...you (1/07/09-1) Heated attached Garage. Short walk to Central street will not be disappointed. (09/17/08-4)

Place your classified online: www.windycitymediagroup.com

CLASSIFIEDS ADvertise here NEED A LITTLE HELP WITH THAT NEW YEAR’S FITNESS YOU OWE IT TO YOURSELF!: Experience the therapeu- ADVERTISE HERE: Want to advertise your product, RESOLUTION?: Supportive, affirming, psychotherapy PERSONAL TRAINER: Rachel Lavin, M. A. Realize your tic benefits of deep tissue/wellness massage by a li- service, etc. to thousands of readers? Place an ad in the for LGBTQ individuals, couples, families, and children goals through 12 week success programs. Lose weight, censed GBM professional. Relieve stress, feel better! Windy City Times! We offer affordable rates, convenient dealing with any of life’s challenges. Please call get in shape and be the best you can be. 773-251-7874 Non-sexual. South Shore Area. In, $65/hr. or $85/1.5 service, and as a bonus, your ad runs in our online Jackie at 773-275-7710 or www.jacquelynsinger. (1/07/09-52) hrs.; out, add $20. 773-933-7219 or 773-576-4659. section for free. To place an ad, contact Cynthia at com (5/20/09-26) (PP2/19/09PP) 773-871-7610, [email protected], RELATIONSHIPS CAN LAST: We specialize in helping you HELP WANTED or go to our website www.WindyCityMediaGroup. sift through what is not working in your relationship WEDNESDAY MORNING NEWSPAPER DELIVERY: Four PHOTOGRAPHY com. so that you can maximize the good. With over 20 years hours, $56. Must have car and insurance. Please call PORTRAITS MAKE GREAT GIFTS: Portraits. Nudes. of experience serving Chicago’s LGBTQ communities, we Jean at 773-871-7610. Figurative. Headshots. Personal. Color. B&W. 25 years ANNOUNCEMENT offer safe, confidential counseling for drinking and drug experience. “I’ll work with you to get the shots that INDIA SURROGACY SEMINAR IN DALLAS FORT WORTH related concerns, past or present abuse, coming out and HOME REPAIRS are just right.” Info: 312-260-7935. Website: www. ON JANUARY 28th: Fatherhood for Gays & Singles. World coming out of marriage. Please call Dr. Margo Jaquot REHAB & REMODELING KITCHENS & BATHROOMS: Over morrowphoto.com. (2/11/09-28) Renowned Surrogacy Expert. www.MedicalTourismCo. at 847-759-9110 exr. 10 or email junipercenter@ 25 years of experience serving Chicago and surround- com Limited to First Few Registrations. (1/28/08-4) aol.com (2/04/09-TK) ing suburbs. Emergency plumbing services available. TRAVEL EXPERIENCED THERAPIST OFFERING SAFE, SUPPORTIVE, Fully licensed and insured. Free estimates. Contact GAYVEGASCOUPONS.COM: Everything Las Vegas!. www. CLEANING SERVICES COMPASSIONATE COUNSELING: Helping individuals Steve 847-791-2216 or [email protected] GayVegasCoupons.com. (1/07/09-4) CHESTNUT CLEANING SERVICES: We’re a house cleaning and couples make more satisfying choices, overcome (12/16/09-52) NEW BUFFALO: Enjoy 2 or 3 bedroom cottages, 5 service for homes, small businesses and small buildings. obstacles, battle feelings of inadequacy and indecision. blocks from the lake. Full kitchens, central air, decks; We also have fabulous organizational skills (a separate Specialties in coming out, coming out of marriage, INTERPRETER all linens and dinnerware supplied. Check out www. function at a separate cost that utilizes your assis- gender/trans issues, anxiety, depression, trauma, FOR YOUR AMERICAN SIGN LANGUAGE/ENGLISH envoytravel.com/envoyresorts.htm, call Envoy Travel tance) for what hasn’t been cleaned in many months substance abuse. Northwest Suburbs & Chicago. INTERPRETING NEEDS: To consult with you or your 312-787-2400 or 800-44-ENVOY. (S) or years due to long-term illness, depression, physical/ 847-824-9590 or www.LindaSLevi.com (5/20/09-26) company with your ADA needs. Diana Thorpe CI/ mental challenges, for the elderly, if you have down- CT/NIC Master, Nationally Certified Interpreter, WINDOW TREATMENTS sized and more. Depressed about going home to chaos? DVD 773-401-1339, or e-mail [email protected] WONDERING WHAT to do with those windows?: We can organize your chaos, straighten out your chaos, THE WHOLE TRUTH AND NOTHING BUT: The [P-TB] Call me! I take care of it all from design through instal- help you make sense of your chaos and finally clean Perfect DVD for every GLBT person. This excellent lation, customizing to your needs. JOSEPH RICE Inte- what is no longer chaos. Can we help you? Bonded and documentary presentation uses ONLY Biblical MASSAGE THERAPY riors, Inc. Full Decorating Services with a specialty in insured. Chestnut Cleaning Service: 312-332-5575 passages to dispel the misconceptions & to show POWER MASSAGE: Deep, strong, and rejuvenating window treatments for over 24 years. 773-273-2361. (5/24/09-tk) GLBT people that God made them in HIS image, just with lean muscular athlete. In calls and house calls (10/21/09-52) the way he wants them... NO EXCEPTIONS! www. with table. Late hours ok. Convenient location. COUNSELING TheTruthTheWholeTruthAndNothingBut.net Relocated practice from NYC. Treat yourself. www. LICENSED PSYCHOTHERAPY: 20 years experience (2/11/09-8) PowerMassageChicago.com. Marc, 312-440-1972. providing counseling and clinical hypnotherapy. I (PP4/15/09PP) specialize in relationship issues, childhood trauma, and recurrent patterns that inhibit potential. Individuals and couples. Starla Sholl, LCSW, PC, 773.878.5809, [email protected] www.starlasholl.com. 20 Jan. 7, 2009 WB show Smallville, playing Lex Luthor. How rie Fisher. Her daughter was a fan of Smallville MB: You cast me in my first show there at West- many seasons were you on? and wanted an autographed picture. I said I ern when you were directing a children’s play. MB: I did seven seasons and I just finished want a picture, in exchange, of Carrie in Return WCT: I guess I saw a star in you very early this past May. They are continuing on another of the Jedi in that little skimpy outfit with Jabba on. What’s in the future for Michael Rosen- season. My contract was up and it had run its the Hut. She jokingly wrote, “Michael, fuck me, baum? course. I loved the cast and the crew but I felt Carrie.” We have been throwing parties together MB: I am writing a lot. I am being very selec- like my work was done. They have asked me to ever since for Christmas called the “Bah Hum- tive. I don’t have to jump at everything that come back a few times. People think they have bug” parties, where we get lumps of coal and we comes at me. I want to do more movies. I would seen me on the show since then but I found out trim the tree with people like Robert Downing, do a sitcom; I did a couple but they were short- they have been using body doubles to pretend Jr., and Alec Baldwin on the list. lived. I always thought I would have my own that it’s me. I don’t know how fair that is to the WCT: That sounds surreal. All this and you show. fans. started from humble beginnings in a small See www.michaelrosenbaum.com. WCT: So you don’t think you will ever come town. back? MB: No. I told the producers that I would only come back for the last episode or two if they let Tickled Pink Smith, Florida part me wear a bald cap. I just grew my hair out. WCT: Shaving your hair just drove you crazy, charity party of speaker series Actor/playwright/academic Anna Deavere didn’t it? set for Feb. 20 Smith and author Richard Florida will be among MB: It wore out its welcome. Seven years ev- Tickled Pink—the party that brings together Michael Rosenbaum. those taking part in the “Conversations in the eryday, filming in Vancouver, freezing my ass off. the city’s hip, young or young at heart for a Arts” series in 2009. The programs involve I couldn’t even wear a hat because my makeup celebration—will take place Feb. 20, 7 p.m.-12 public intellectuals who specialize in such ar- NUNN ON ONE would get ruined. I had to be there two hours a.m., at Tantrik nightclub, 800 W. Superior. eas as economic development and diversity in before the crew got there to shave my head. The At the event, guests can sip on delicious the arts. Kickin’ it makeup girl was like my therapist. She knew ev- cocktails served by celebrity bartenders, dine Smith will speak Tuesday, Jan. 27, at 7:30 on appetizers, and cruise the candy bar. Tickled erything about me and knew I wasn’t coming p.m. in Columbia’s Film Row Cinema, 1104 S. old-school with Pink’s dance floor will be the place to be seen back. I am truly grateful to the show. It put me Wabash. This event is free and open to the with the sounds of spinning deejays and live Michael Rosenbaum on the map. It gave me financial stability. I am public; however, space is limited and reserva- music. Also, attendees will be among the first BY JERRY NUNN able to take care of my mother’s gambling prob- tions are required. Call 312-369-6600. to witness Tantrik’s interior. lem! [Both laugh.] Florida—author of The Rise of the Creative Tickets are $95 in advance and $120 at the Back in 1991, a group of theatre students lived WCT: Well, you are not like that character Class and Who’s Your City?—is slated to speak door, and proceeds will benefit the Breast Can- all together in a three bedroom house in Bowl- you played on TV. Thursday, April 30. Tickets will be available one cer Network of Strength (formerly the Y-ME Na- ing Green, Ky. Who knew that years later, one MB: Anyone who knows me was surprised I month prior to his appearance. would be a world-famous super villain and an- was playing the villain. I have always been the tional Breast Cancer Organization). Call John other a writer for Windy City Times? After all this jokester so everyday on set I was doing stand-up Keogh at 312-294-8557 or see www.tickled- time, we had to catch up… comedy for the crew; then I had to be all seri- pinkchicago.com. Windy City Times: So, the last time I saw ous. I was craving to do funny stuff. Now I have South Asian version you in person was at a party at Western [Ken- that freedom. Mapplethorpe and of Vagina Monologues tucky University]. You told me that you were WCT: I thought how brilliant that you could going to move to New York after graduating grow you hair back and have a whole other Michaelangelo at NU at Strawdog Largely unknown works by photographer Rasaka Theatre Company will present the Chi- and become famous. Now look at you! career after the show. Robert Mapplethorpe and original drawings cago premiere of Yoni Ki Baat—a South Asian- Michael Roesenbaum: I remember saying that; MB: You hit the nail on the head. In fact, right from the Prado Museum by Michelangelo and focused event loosely inspired by Eve Ensler’s I do. I just had a feeling that this would all hap- now, I have a holiday beard growing. I remember other 16th-century masters will be exhibited The Vagina Monologues—at Strawdog Theatre, pen. you in a beard, too. You grow good beards. this winter during two major exhibitions at 3829 N. Broadway, Jan. 4-Feb. 1, 2009. WCT: How did you get started after arriving WCT: I did it for theatre; it works well for Northwestern University’s Mary and Leigh Block The show will include six new monologues in The Big Apple? Shakespeare. How did you get involved with Museum of Art, 40 Arts Circle Drive, Evanston. by local writers, including ensemble members MB: I had dinner with some other acting all the voice work on cartoons such as Justice The “Polaroids: Mapplethorpe” exhibition, Anita Chandwaney and Mary Anne Mohanraj. alumni from Western Kentucky, who were living League and Batman? featuring more than 90 photographs, in the Tickets are $10-$20; call 312-777-1070 or visit MB: I was doing voiceover work in New York in New York and I called them up to say thanks Block Museum’s Alsdorf Gallery Jan. 13-April www.strawdog.org. for having me. One of them got me an interview for everything from Trojan condoms to Mag- 5. New York’s Whitney Museum of American Ar with their agent the following Monday. navox. It’s a lot of fun and easy to do. I didn’t in collaboration with the Robert Mapplethorpe WCT: So it’s all who you know, sometimes. have connections, only that my agent said they Foundation, New York, organized the exhibi- Trans model MB: It was serendipitous. Everything just need a replacement for a small part in the Bat- tion. To see examples of works in the exhibi- clicked. I auditioned for Conan O’Brien and got man Beyond cartoon. After that I auditioned for at ‘Center’ tion, visit www.blockmuseum.northwestern. Isis King, the trans individual who competed a sketch comedy segment called the Amsterdam the Justice League and played the Flash for six edu/exhibitions/future/mapplethorpe.html. Kids. It was about two kids that were misin- years. in the most recent cycle of America’s Next Top “From Michelangelo to Annibale Carracci: A Model, recently appeared at Center on Halsted, formed about Amsterdam liberal policies. The WCT: You were so good. I grew up with comic Century of Italian Drawings from the Prado,” 3656 N. Halsted. She spoke about her life, her episodes were on every week for five weeks. books and it was wild to see you do all these in the Main Gallery Jan. 23-April 5, focuses on recent television appearance and future career WCT: So that got you some exposure. So superhero projects. artworks from roughly 1520 to 1620. plans. Last month, King found out on The Tyra what happened after that? MB: That’s so cool to hear from a friend be- Admission is free. Call 847-491-4000 or see Banks Show that trans physician Dr. Marci Bow- MB: Well, I just kept auditioning, little by cause I never knew anything about it. I was www.blockmuseum.northwestern.edu. little, for different projects. learning as I went along. I would get these ers (of TV’s Sex Change Hospital) will finance WCT: How did you get in the movie Midnight crazed fans that would be like, “Hey, you’re the King’s gender-reassignment surgery. in the Garden of Good and Evil? Flash!” IGLTA announces MB: I auditioned for it although I had never WCT: Did you make appearances at the com- heard of it or read the John Berendt book. They ic-book conventions? travel discount The International Gay & Lesbian Travel As- had me read for it on tape. The next day they MB: I went to one in Chicago, actually. The sociation (IGLTA) has announced a new benefit called and said, “You have a call back and Clint idea of someone paying me money just to sign program with longtime partner and hotel in- wants you to be a little more subtle.” I couldn’t autographs seems silly to me. A free trip? Great! dustry Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants. believe that Clint Eastwood casts from video- Fans love it and it’s good for everyone. Using special rate code “GLT” on Kimpton’s tape! A week later, I flew to Atlanta and filmed WCT: Those fans will stay with you forever. Web site, www.kimptonhotels.com, all LGBT the movie. You have a lot of gay fans too, just to let you travelers will now receive 10 percent off the WCT: That must have been exciting. know. best available rate at any of the company’s MB: It was. Clint really made me feel comfort- MB: Really? That’s comforting. The wardrobe unique properties. Additionally, each time IG- able on set and didn’t hound me with me with a guy on Smallville always told me that. I told him LTA’s code is used, Kimpton Hotels & Restau- lot of notes. [Does a dead-on Eastwood interpre- they like the pretty boy, they like Tom. He said, rants will donate $10 per night back to IGLTA’s tation] “Well Michael, how did that feel?” Next I “They like you too…trust me.” Tell them I am mission of raising the profile of LGBT travel had an audition and was cast on The Tom Arnold better with hair, Jer. worldwide. Show. That brought me to L.A. and got me in WCT: The pictures you sent me are with hair. Since its founding in 1981, the company has the door. There are lots of stories of overnight You have played gay in Sweet November with been a pioneer in the hotel industry and was successes but, for me, it was step by step. Keanu Reeves and did drag in Sorority Boys. one of the first hotel groups to target special- WCT: It has been great to watch your rise to MB: It’s really hard playing a transvestite and ized outreach to the GLBT market. fame. then having to carry Charlize Theron into the MB: Well, you knew me. You lived with me, for bathroom and undress her. I really had to stay Isis King (front, center) at Center on Halsted. God’s sake. I was always a bit of an extrovert. I in character. [Laughs] Photo from Danny Kopelson knew where I wanted to go and where I wanted WCT: Now is there someone famous that you to be. I knew I could do this. never thought you would meet? WCT: Well, you definitely hit it big with the MB: It’s funny how I became friends with Car- Jan. 7, 2009 21 WHAT TO DO? Sunday, Jan. 11

Wednesday, Jan. 7 on Halsted’s 2nd Floor Living Room Renaissance Socieyt Roundtable: Chi- tion or to register, call Aldo Hernandez, Heating it up in the New Year – Sexy Space 3656 North Halsted,773-472- cago Artists? Is there such a thing any- LCSW, Health Educator/Social Worker tips presented by Tulip Toy Gallery, 6 - 6469 wwww.centeronhalsted.org more? Includes Elizabeth Chodos, Di- at 773-472-6469 X 450 or email Aldo 9 p.m. $5, includes 2 drink tickets and Leather Archives & Museum last day rector of Three Walls; Paul Klein, critic; at [email protected]. snacks, www.centeronhalsted.org of “_ask”, a mixed medium exhibi- Chuck Thurow, Director of The Hyde Registration ends on Jan. 29, 2009. Howard Brown seven session LGBT Spe- tion celebrates the mask and its abil- Park Arts Center; Philip von Zweck, art- www.centeronhalsted.org. cific Smoking Cessation Program be- ity to transform its wearer into dual ist. Free. 2 p.m. Swift Hall room 310. persona of subject/object. 6418 N. www.renaissancesociety.org gins. Group participants receive seven Friday, Jan. 16 weeks of the program, free nicotine Greenview Ave. 773-761-9200 www. Center on Halsted presents Gender replacement patches and $25 for com- leatherarchives.org Tuesday, Jan. 13 Queer Cabaret, Showtime at the pleting the program survey at the end Man’s Country Peter, Blake & Angel, Gerber/Hart lesbian book group, to 5017 N. Clark St. Apollo, an evening of gender bend- of the seven week session. Howard share readings and select new books ing queer musical performances based Brown Health Center, 4025 N. Sheridan for Spring 2009 7:30 p.m. to 9 p.m., upon shows at the historic landmark ‘RED’ RECKONING Rd. www.howardbrown.org. Saturday, Jan. 10 Gerber/Hart Library, 1127 W. Granville Apollo Theater in Harlem, followed Center on Halsted Women on Wednes- Equality Illinois suburban event, Pub- Global Neighborhoods: Rick Lowe and by a light dessert reception. $10/$3 Perez Hilton will promote his book, Red days: Every first Wednesday of the lic Policy Director, Rick Garcia, will talk Kyong Par in Conversation: How cities students, 7 to 9 p.m., Hoover/Leppen Carpet Suicide, at Borders, 1500 16th, Oak month a fun alternative place for wom- about the organization and the IL Civil and neighborhoods are reconstituted, Theatre, Center on Halsted 3656 N. Brook. en to meet other women. Each month a Unions Bill. Free pizza & beverages. how poetics of art and ritual propel Halsted, www.centeronhalsted.org different theme. 6-9 p.m. $5, includes 7 p.m. 1619 S Highland, Arlington and complicate urban rebirth. Tickets Yes We Can: John Gress On The Cam- Photo by Austin Young 2 drink tickets and snacks, Center on Heights RSVP to Fran Bailey info@ $7, MCA members and students $56 paign Trail With Barack Obama, ex- Halsted, 3656 North Halsted,(773) outinthesuburbs.com p.m. Museum of Contemporary Art 220 hibit opening reception, $5 donation, 472-6469 , www.centeronhalsted.org. Men Nurturing Men, reunion potluck East Chicago Ave. 312.397.3832 www. 6:30 - 9:30 p.m., Center on Halsted, social: theme: 2009, Changing Men’s mcachicago.org/media 3656 N. Halsted 773-472-6469, www. Tuesday, Jan. 13 Lives, One Man at a Time, at a mem- Polaroids: Mapplethorpe exhibition. centeronhalsted.org Thursday, Jan. 8 ber’s home. 6:30 p.m. Bring comfort Largely unknown works by photogra- GLBTQ Friends Central Kane County foods, RSVP by Jan. 07 to 708-439- pher Robert Mapplethorpe and original Coffee & Conversation, 2nd and 4th 5227 or [email protected] drawings from the Prado Museum by Saturday, Jan. 17 Thursday nights of each month. Bor- Rainbow Brunch, Look for tables near Michelangelo and other 16th century 9 to 12 Bowling League, GLBT bowl- ders Books, Kirk & Main (Rte 64), St. drink station, kids welcome. $7.95, masters. Free. Northwestern Univer- ing league meets once a month. $10, Charles, 7 p.m. 630-338-6134 on the 10:30 a.m. Old Country Buffet, 701 N. sity’s Mary and Leigh Block Museum of 9 p.m. River Rand Bowl, 191 S River day of the event for last minute chang- Milwaukee, Vernon Hills, TashBanash@ Art at 40 Arts Circle Drive on the Ev- Rd, Des Plaines, retroactive1@com- es. [email protected] aol.com anston campus. (847) 491-4000 www. cast.net Joan Corwin, author of Safe Shall Be My Spin Fish Tank, hosted by Dummy Corps, blockmuseum.northwestern.edu All Womyn’s Pizza and a Movie Night, Going, Press 53 Open Awards Anthol- $10 20 oz. Bacardi fishbowl cocktails, $5 suggested donation 7:30 p.m. Zach- ogy, 7:30 p.m. Women & Children First 800 W. Belmont Ave., spin-nightclub. arias Center, 4275 Old Grand, Gurnee, Bookstore, 5233 N. Clark 773-769-9299 com Wednesday, Jan. 14 [email protected] www.womenandchildrenfirst.com Windy City Media Group Gays Got Tal- Groups for HIV+ individuals sges Sappho’s Salon at Women & Children Congregation BJBE, 7 PFLAG Glenview, ent finals contest (dance, comedy, 18-35 looking to connect with oth- First, a provocative night of lesbian p.m. 901 Milwaukee, Glenview, 773- magic, impersonation, drag, burlesque, ers living with HIV/AIDS and to share diversions, 7:30 p.m., Women and 472-3079 www.outinthesuburbs.com/ music and more). 3 p.m. door, 5 p.m. stories and experiences in a safe and Children First Books, 5233 N. Clark St., start, $5 cover, Sidetrack, 3349 N. Hal- friendly environment. Free. 6 - 7 773-769-9299 Friday, Jan. 9 sted p.m., Center on Halsted 3656 N. Hal- sted, Information or register, call Aldo Center on Halsted Art Show: Jeff ste- Monday, Jan. 19 venson: Many-One. Opening reception Hernandez, LCSW, Health Educator/So- Sunday, Jan. 11 Northwestern University’s Martin Lu- will be held on at Center on Halsted, cial Worker at 773-472-6469 X 450 or Borders Perez Hilton promoting his book, ther King Jr. celebration featuring 2nd floor gallery, 6:30 – 9:30 p.m. $5 email ahernandez@centeronhalsted. Red Carpet Suicide. 1500 16th, Oak org. Registration ends Jan. 29. www. legendary soul and gospel singer Ma- donation requested. Cash bar. Thru Brook, at 3 p.m. Call 630-574-0800. vis Staples, noon, Pick-Staiger Con- Feb. 15, 2009 RSVP to Ben Gannon centeronhalsted.org. PFLAG Aurora/Fox Valley, 2 pm, New cert Hall, 50 Arts Circle Dr., Evanston PHOTO FINISH at [email protected] or call England Congr. Church, 406 W Galena campus. Author Tim Wise, prominent 773-472-6469 x 177 Blvd., Aurora, 630-738-1962 Thursday, Jan. 15 anti-racism writer and activist will be Robert Mapplethorpe’s photos will be Hydrate Positively Aware Party, 8-11 Reconciling Journey Affirming -De Groups for HIV+ individuals age 35+ keynote speaker at noon, Thorne Au- showcased at Northwestern University’s Block p.m., followed by DJ Greg Drescher, votional Study for GLBT Christians looking to connect with others living ditorium, Arthur Rubloff Building, 375 3458 N. Halsted St., hydratechicago. Museum of Art. 6:30 p.m. Wesley United Methodist with HIV/AIDS and to share stories E. Chicago. All free and open to pub- com Church, 21 East Franklin, Naperville, and experiences in a safe and friendly lic. www.northwestern.edu/mlk/index. Jeff Stevenson: Many-One art exhibit, 630-355-1834 environment. Free. 6 - 7 p.m. Center html Photo courtesy of Burke Patten $5 donation, 8:30 - 9:30 p.m., Center on Halsted 3656 N. Halsted. Informa- See our online calendar: www.windycitymediagroup.com/calendar

Boystown revelry Spirits were high along North Halsted on New Year’s Eve as revelers partied at Cocktail, Roscoe’s and Sidetrack (where LGBT-rights group Equality Illinois held a party). Photos by Kat Fitzgerald/ www.MysticImagesPhotography.com 22 Jan. 7, 2009 SPORTS SC: Yeah, Fire on Ice. It came out before the last Olympics. It has a lot of cute stories about Mammoth Gay Sasha Fierce my life and the training. The book includes the Ski Week in March by Jerry Nunn good times and the sad times, just thoughts Elevation 2009, the seventh annual Mammoth from my life. Gay Ski Week, will be held in Mammoth Lakes, Silver medal Olympic medalist Sasha Cohen, not WCT: Any hints to what music you will be Calif., March 18-22. to be confused with Borat’s Sacha Cohen, will performing to at the Stars on Ice show in Chi- More than 2,000 people are expected to at- be part of the Smucker’s Stars on Ice Tour. Sasha cago? tend this event, the third-largest of its kind in took a break from her busy day of preparation SC: Yes, I am skating to Moonlight Sonata and the world. Among the scheduled highlights are and skated by Windy City Times for a chat. Please Don’t Stop the Music. several parties, including The Party @ 10,000 Windy City Times: Hi Sasha! Our readers are WCT: Oh, a little Rihanna, very fun. Do you Feet and Cliffhanger, the main gala. excited that you are coming to Chicago on skate by yourself or with someone else? See www.mammothgayski.com. this tour. Have you been to Chicago before? SC: I am in a few group numbers with the rest Sasha Cohen: I have. I don’t know the city of the cast and stuff on my own. very well but I love it. I like to come there be- WCT: And this is your second year with the Qrew Chicago cause Chicago has a great skating crowd. tour? WCT: Well, there’s lots of ice on the ground SC: Yes, this is my second full year of touring. wants new name Qrew Chicago, an all-inclusive rowing (or today for you to skate on! Tell our readers WCT: What’s in the future for Sasha Cohen? “crew”) organization, is asking the community about your history. Where are you from? SC: I don’t know. That’s what I love. It makes for help in finding a new name. SC: I am from California. I was born in LA and life exciting. If I knew what was going to hap- People are apparently having trouble with lived in Orange County most of my life. I moved pen I would be so bored. I am the kind of person its name. Qrew Chicago President Scott Curcio off to New York and Connecticut for training for that sees what kind of opportunities come my said, “It’s witty and catchy, but as we grow, we the 2006 Olympics. Now I am back living in Or- way and make the most of them. Could be some- continue to realize that our name is difficult to ange County, California. Half the year I am usu- thing in broadcasting or fashion design. Maybe pronounce and comprehend among the greater ally on tour doing shows. The rest of the time I I will go back to acting school. I am focusing rowing community.” Also, the organization feels am training and doing little odds and ends and on training right now and we will see where the that the “Q” puts a limit on the identity of its having a good time. Sasha Cohen. next era goes. diverse group of rowers. WCT: Did you get your start in dance or WCT: Well, your fans can keep up with your Name and logo ideas should be sent to mem- gymnastics? SC: It was such a compliment. The music life on your official Web site, www.sashaco- [email protected] through Saturday, SC: I actually did gymnastics for two years meant so much to me and it was so beautiful. hen.com, I look forward to seeing your show! Jan. 10. from ages five to seven. Then I went to skate Every time I would skate it would re-inspire me. SC: You’ll have a great time and I look forward one time with a good friend that was in gym- The music really moved me. to seeing the Chicago crowds there! nastics with me. I just loved it and wound up WCT: Are you going to be in the 2010 Olym- For tickets to see the Smucker’s Stars FGG completes 2008 switching sports. pics? on Ice, visit www.starsonice.com or call WCT: How much do you have to train before SC: I am going to decide that this next sum- 312-559-1212. Prices start at $25 for the annual meeting even thinking about the Olympics? mer. Feb. 21 show, which takes place at 3 p.m. at Appearances by South African High Court Jus- SC: It’s something you start as a little kid and WCT: I heard you are a big fan of Audrey The Allstate Arena. tice Edwin Cameron and 2004 beach volleyball you kind of just do it for a couple of hours ev- Hepburn like me! Olympian and Gay Games Ambassador Leigh-Ann eryday. 12 years later you think maybe you could SC: Yes, I love Audrey Hepburn! I grew up Naidoo were among the highlights of the inter- even make the team. watching My Fair Lady, Roman Holiday and Gay diver is athlete national Federation of Gay Games’ annual meet- WCT: Well, you definitely made that team. Breakfast at Tiffany’s. I have always really, really of the year ing held in Cape Town, South Africa last year. After you performed your piece to Romeo And loved her. The federation’s general assembly and board Gay Australian diver Matthew Mitcham, 20, Juliet in the 2006 Olympics, people, includ- WCT: I have pictures of her all over my of directors meet in a different city each year was recently named his continent’s 2008 Sports ing Peggy Fleming, referred to you as Juliet. house. So, you co-wrote an autobiography? to conduct committee meetings and hold lead- How did that make you feel? Performer of the Year, according to TheAge.com. ership elections.This year marked the midpoint During the 2008 Olympics, Mitcham scored four between Chicago’s Gay Games VII in 2006 and perfect 10s to upset the favorite, Chinese diver the 2010 Gay Games VIII in Cologne, Germany. Luxin Zhou. Mitcham is believed to be the first 2009 INDOOR SOCCER SEASON Australian to come out before competing at an Olympic Games. Chicago Dragons !!!REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN!!! show Jan. 24 Strike Out Against Local gay and gay-friendly rugby team the Chi- cago Dragons will hold its 3rd Annual Ms. Ruck Hunger on Jan. 31 & Maul Contest Saturday, Jan. 24, at Sidetrack, THE LEAGUE The 9 to 12 Bowling League and River Rand 3349 N. Halsted, 5-8 p.m. Bowl will hold its 12th annual Strike Out Against Tickets for the event—which will feature team The next CMSA co-ed indoor soccer league Hunger—a benefit for HIV/AIDS agency Vital members in drag—are $20 in advance and $25 begins in January and runs through March Bridges—Saturday, Jan. 31, at River Rand Bowl, at the door. In exchange, patrons get four drink 191 S. River, Des Plaines, 7-10 p.m. LEVEL OF COMPETITION of 2009. Games will be played on Satur- tickets and a whole lot of entertainment. This days between 2:00pm and 6:00pm. Open Bowlers of all skills are welcome. Tickets run event is one of the team’s biggest to help raise gym/practice will be held January 10th and $30 for an individual bowler or $150 for a team money for club expenses such as field costs, We are hoping to register enough the season will start January 17th. of six. Ticket includes three games, shoe rental travel and equipment. individuals to host both a competitive and snack foods. See www.vitalbridges.org/pag- See www.ChicagoDragons.org. and recreational league. Partici- es/event-detail/17.php?id=3. pants will be able to self-select into REGISTRATION one or the other upon registration. The Competitive League is for play- Milwaukee to host ers who have several years of soccer Player fees are $81 and must be paid prior gay softball events; experience. Although still a friendly to the season starting. All players must be league meant for recreation, it will current CMSA members as well. Registra- meetings in Jan. be faster, more controlled, and more tion is available online at www.chicagomsa. During the week of Aug. 30-Sept. 5, 2009, competitive than its recreational com - please check our soccer page for Milwaukee and the Saturday Softball League will counterpart. The Recreational Soc- additional information. host the 33rd Gay Softball World Series (GSWS), cer league is for players who want a also known as Series 2009. friendly, fun league where they can In a related development, the city will present play and develop skills even if they NAGAAAFest 2009 Aug. 29-Sept. 7. In addition are relatively new (or just returning) to the softball tournament, NAGAAAFest will be to the sport. Our ability to maintain a series of events, celebrations and parties for two divisions will be dependent upon the entire community. the number of participants for each. But before the tournament begins, the NA- GAAA (North American Gay Ameteur Athletic Association) Open Division winter meetings will LOCATION: take place Saturday-Sunday, Jan. 24-25, 2009, Center on Halsted at the Hilton Milwaukee City Center (the host 3656 N. Halsted St., Chicago hotel for Series 2009). These meetings are held to set up the rules and criteria for organized gay softball. See www.nagaaasoftball.org and CONTACT: For more information on the league, please email www.nagaaafest.com. Chicago Dragons in action. Jason and Nick at [email protected] Jan. 7, 2009 23

TPAN Know your status ad 7/14/08 8:20 PM Page 2 CONNE IONS MAKE IT YOUR BUSINESS X We understand your needs. We can help you reach your goals. The Law Offices of Best Marriage Yet! UÊ*,"6 Ê, -1/- Alexander Weaver UÊ"1/-/
 Ê- ,6 FREE, ANONYMOUS, 312-578-0222 Fee-Only* & Gay UÊ 8* ,/Ê "1 -   and CONVENIENT UÊ
, --6 Ê
6"
9 email: [email protected] oral HIV testing available at Fee-Only Financial Advice
Ì̜À˜iÞÃÊëiVˆ>ˆâˆ˜}ʈ˜Ê ÃÌ>ÌiÊ*>˜˜ˆ˜}]Ê*œÜiÀÃʜvÊ TPAN, 5537 N. Broadway, A Full Service
Ì̜À˜iÞ]Ê*ÀœL>Ìi]Ê/ÀÕÃÌÃ]ÊÕ>À`ˆ>˜Ã ˆ«]Ê,i>Ê ÃÌ>Ìi]Ê Chicago. Law Firm Objective & Focused >˜`ʏˆÌˆ}>̈œ˜ÊœvÊÌ œÃiÊ>Ài>ð on You. for the Community Kevin Paulsen, CFP® Ray J. Koenig III since 1988 A proud member of our community. Free, no obligation inital meetings are available. 410 S. Michigan Ave., Peck, Bloom, Austriaco & Koenig, LLC, Call (773) 989-9400 for more information. Suite 628, Chicago www.GLFOA.com 847-556-9299 a long-time supporter of our community. DUI MANDATES ? 7iÊÀi«ÀiÃi˜Ìʈ˜`ˆÛˆ`Õ>Ã]Ê>Êv>“ˆˆiÃÊ>˜`ÊLÕȘiÃÃið Change IS Possible... *Find out how Fee-Only is œ˜Ì>VÌÊ,>ÞÊœi˜ˆ}Ê̜`>Þ\ • State Licensed Facility different by visiting (312) 201-0900 When experience counts... Expert Hair • Flexible Hours our website [email protected] In service to the community for 30 years. • State funding if you qualify www.peckbloom.com Styling & Color The Law Offices of “AddingRoger V.Value McCaffrey-Boss to our Community” Walk-ins Welcome! & Associates i 6924 N. Glenwood,• Bankruptcy (Morse L) Bring a friend and • Wills, Trusts & Probate

l www.awellnessorganization.com get 50% off. • Real Estate 773-338-9999• Litigation

o Call for details. 30% OFF Salon & Gallery • Powers of Attorney • Business Law 19 S. LaSalle, Suite 1500, Chicago, IL 60603 i EcoCare Frames Available 1750 W. Balmoral 312-263-8800, email [email protected] Ready-Made frames, We are a debt relief agency. We help people file for bankruptcy l 773.334.5191 relief under the bankruptcy code. Custom Framing made Earth friendly o

DUI Making A MANDATES ? Difference in Our CUSTOM FRAMING Community Change IS Possible...

WINDYCITYPDF0- Kiki Calumet • State Licensed Gail Wells, LCSW, CADC 1478 W. Berwyn - 773.784.3962 Senior Consultant • Flexible Hours 773.305.7010 • State funding if you qualify 312.909.9372 “Adding Value to our Community” 6924 N. Glenwood, (Morse L) [email protected] www.awellnessorganization.com www.aandnmortgage.com Mulryan 773-338-9999 & York Attorneys At Law

4001 N. Wolcott Chicago, IL 60613 (773) 248-8887

Windy City Media Group would like to thank the following supportive businesses advertising this week in Windy City Times, Nightspots, Windy City Queercast and www.WindyCityMediaGroup.com

A and N Mortgage Services, Inc Chestnut Cleaning Service Greenlight Fee Only Advisors, LLC Fund, Inc. Remy Bumppo Theatre Company A Wellness Organization Chicago Eagle Gruppo Di Amici Leather Archives & Museum Roger V. McCaffrey-Boss & Associates Alexander Weaver & Associates Chicago Metropolitan Sports Association Gutrich Chiropractic Leather Sport Sidetrack Allied Advertising Clear Choice Dental Implants House 5863 Lyster And Associates Spin Apartment People, Ltd. Community Chiropractic, Inc. Hydrate Man’s Country Starla Sholl, LCSW BeHIV/ Better Existence With HIV Cupid’s Treasures Iloilo Custom Framing, Inc. Margo Jacquot, PsyD Susan O’Dell, PhD Berlin Front Runners Chicago Jan Dee Jewelers Mulryan & York, Attorneys At Law The Counter Burger - BYO Burger Group Broadway In Chicago gayinsurance.com Jewish Family & Community Service Of Sound Mind, Inc The Mens Room Center For Positive Change Goodman Theatre Karma Salon & Gallery Progressive Chiropractic Truman College Charles Rhodes, State Farm Insurance Greater Chicago Chiropractic, Inc. Lambda Legal Defense And Educational Prudential Writers Theatre

Download each issue of Windy City Times and Nightspots at www.WindyCityMediaGroup.com 24 Jan. 7, 2009 Grand Opening ClearChoice Dental Implant Center #HICAGOs.ORTHBROOKs.APERVILLE

“I went to ClearChoice “I was impressed by the in the morning with missing teeth and technology at ClearChoice. They had I left that afternoon with Dental Implants and a 3D CAT Scan that showed where to place the a full set of great looking, fully functioning teeth. Dental Implants while avoiding the nerves, and without It all happened in one day!” * any bone grafts. They even had equipment to make my Beautiful New Teeth at the same location!” ClearChoice Changed Their Lives in Just ONE Appointment!*

Dental Implants Are the No More Dentures No More Bridges

Closest Thing to Natural Teeth Fed up with messy Filed Down Teeth Bridges are a three tooth Dental Implants are creams and adhe- solution for a one tooth small titanium screws sives or plastic in your problem. Healthy teeth that function much mouth? Dentures must be filed down just inhibit an active life- to support the bridge. like the roots of natu- No Support ral teeth. They support style and can greatly Bridges also take a fixed replacements for affect self-confidence. pounding as you chew, limiting their lifespan. one tooth, several They also provide no support within the jaw, ClearChoice can help to avoid that. Dental teeth, or even a full set of teeth. With Implant- resulting in deterioration and shrinkage of Implants are the modern solution for missing supported dental restorations, you can chew the jaw bone, often causing pain, discomfort, teeth, and can eliminate most of the problems with the power of natural teeth and slow down loss of chewing ability, and resulting in associated with bridges. Dental Implants are as the facial aging process. significant facial aging. ClearChoice can close to natural teeth as you can get and can change all that. last a lifetime.

7HHWK 1HZ ,PSODQWV QH$SSRLQWPHQW $OOLQ2

For a FREE Consultation with Panoramic Xray or FREE Seminar Call 312-939-8990 #HICAGOs.ORTHBROOKs.APERVILLE

Mark W. Adams, DDS, MS Kevin P. Ryan, DDS Patrick J. Pierre, DDS, DFMP, FACP Michael C. Rodbro, DDS Neil B. Hagen, DDS Robert E. Galliani, DDS Donald E. Romsa, DDS Licensed to practice as a general dentist in Illinois *Nobel Biocare Immediate Function™ for qualified patients and after initial workup. Results may vary in individual cases. 312-939-8990 www.clearchoice.com