Rahm Emanuel: in His Own Words by ANDREW DAVIS Building in Which the Interview Was Conducted

page 20 PHILADELPHIA FREEDOM WINDY CITY THE VOICE OF CHICAGO’S GAY, LESBIAN, BI AND TRANS COMMUNITY SINCE 1985 Dec. 15, 2010 TIMES vol 26, no. 11 www.WindyCityMediaGroup.com Rahm Emanuel: In his own words By ANDREW DAVIS building in which the interview was conducted. Windy City Times: I remember hearing you For Rahm Emanuel, this is the best and worst Rahm talk about how if Mayor [Richard] Daley ever of times. Emanuel. stepped down, you’d like to succeed him. Thanks to a variety of factors—not the least of Photo What is it about the position that you find so OPRAH LOVES GAY- which is name recognition, thanks to his years from attractive? in the Clinton and Obama administrations— Caroline Rahm Emanuel: A couple things. One thing OWNED TEA COMPANY Emanuel is seen as the prohibitive favorite in Weisser is that it’s a great city. It’s been my home; I page 21 the 2011 Chicago mayoral race, with various was born here. My grandfather came to the city polls placing him squarely in the lead. in 1917; he immigrated here from Russia and However, as practically everyone knows, Romania. My uncle’s a police officer and my fa- Emanuel is also in the political fight of his life ther immigrated in 1959 to Chicago, to practice right now, as well over a dozen people have medicine, with my mother. My entire family has challenged his residency. If the electoral board been here. votes against him, he will be out of the race. nated under Clinton. The mayor can get things done, put in place a In addition, the LGBT community is split about On Dec. 10, Emanuel sat in the Center on Hal- set of policies. Sometimes I feel like, when I was Emanuel, with some people linking him to the sted for an exclusive interview with Windy City “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” (DADT) policy that origi- Times. He talked about the fight regarding his Turn to page 9 residency, DADT and his connection to the very U.S. Senate rejects DADT repeal Out & By Lisa Keen MEREDITH Keen News Service BAXTER interview The Senate has rejected an attempt to bring pages 19 about the defense-authorization bill to the floor, effectively killing the prospects for repealing Openly gay actor Alan Cumming “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” (DADT) this year, and talked with WCT movie critic n i g h tspots likely for years to come. The vote was 57 to 40. Richard Knight, Jr., at the Chicago tDecember 8, 2010 It could not be determined immediately International Film Festival, where 2010 which three senators did not vote. Most mod- Gift Guide the ‘Good Wife’ actor received an erate Republicans, including Massachusetts’ Storied glasses from Brown Elephant. OUTrageous award. Read the talk page 10 Scott Brown, Illinois’ Mark Kirk and Maine’s Pubert’s guide on page 18. Photo by Bob Dowey to better health. Olympia Snowe, voted against allowing the bill page 28

Open up your to the floor. Republican Sen. Susan Collins, who drawers. page 18 was a chief negotiator for trying to get the bill Make your own Bea Arthur to the floor, voted for cloture (a procedure for bag! page 14 ending a debate and taking a vote).

Moose’s homo music medley. page 12 It was a dramatic finish and, undoubtedly, viewers saw on the Senate floor just the tip of the iceberg in negotiations that sought to bring about repeal of the military’s ban on openly gay servicemembers. Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid took to the floor at about 3 o’clock on Dec. 9, saying he had had tried “every possible way to move for- page 18 ward” on the defense authorization bill, which pick it up Turn to page 4 take it home

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TSOML 10.25x1.5.indd 1 10/12/10 4:24:38 PM 2 Dec. 15, 2010 WINDY CITY TIMES WINDY CITY TIMES Dec. 15, 2010 3 this week in WINDY CITY TIMES NEWS ENTERTAINMENT/EVENTS Prop 8 hearing; DADT appeal rejected 4 Scottish Play Scott 13 Center’s homesharing program 5 Theater reviews 14 NOW OPEN! Howard Brown board changes 6 Barbara Robertson; Fifth Sun; Artemis 16 Wal-Mart worker’s harassment claim 7 Books; Chicago Gay Men’s Chorus 17 Albright; Project CRYSP 8 Knight: Interview with Alan Cumming 18 Rahm Emanuel interview 9 Meredith Baxter 19 Local HIV-drug study response 10 Gay Philadelphia 20 Gay in the Life 11 Gay couple sells Oprah’s favorite teas 21 Viewpoints: Baim, Koenig & Hyde 12 Billy Masters 25 Photos on cover (left, from top): Photograph OUTLINES of Philadelphia by Kate Sosin; Talbott Teas Real estate; classifieds 22 co-owners Steven Nakisher and Shane Talbott Sports: Angela James 23 from Nakisher; Meredith Baxter photo by Calendar Q 24 Sarah Toce Sports: Top 20 events, Hamilton 26

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ate rejects U.S. Sen DADT repeal Go to www.WindyCityMediaGroup.com Out & about to download complete issues of Windy City Times and Nightspots. Then click on any ad and be taken directly to the advertiser’s Web site! BEST NEW NOV. 7 - JAN. 2 MUSICAL of 2010 online exclusives at www.WindyCityMediaGroup.com HERE COMES THE JUDGE The LGBT group The Alliance of Illinois Judges held a reception for Mary Jane Your single source for Theis (left), the newest state supreme court justice. thoughtful products & services Photo by Andrew Davis for you and your dog.

Daycare-by-the-hour exibility Overnight Boarding Training Grooming See photos of Sean Tabatha Coffey Welker’s poignant HIGH FIVE brings her cutting Sofa pillows that double as remote HIV-related art Puppy Classes edge to WCT, Nunn controls? The ABBA Gold CD? It must be exhibit at Center on on One. Five Worth Finding: The Gift Edition. Halsted. Dog Massage and Reiki Photo from Bravo Photo by Andrew Davis Chill Lounge all about eve Sugar & Spice looks at hot spots to get CLOSER TO FINE All-natural/organic food and your grub on during New Year’s Eve. durable, eco-friendly products Social activities to meet THAT’S ENTERTAINMENT other dog owners This week’s entertainment round-up includes bits on Lady Gaga, Johnny Weir and Cyndi Lauper. Visit or call us at: Indigo Girls brought the holiday spirit to 4501 North Ravenswood plus Chicago with a show (featuring, among others, Chely Wright) at the House of Blues. (corner of Ravenswood and Sunnyside) DAILY BREAKING NEWS Read a review and see photos. (773) 942-6445 PR photo

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Find Nightspots on www.WindyCityQueercast.com 4 Dec. 15, 2010 WINDY CITY TIMES ONLINE AT Judges hint at Prop 8 twists and turns WINDYCITYMEDIAGROUP.COM By REX WOCKNER after 18,000 same-sex couples had married. very messy. NATIONAL NEWS It is unclear if the court will grant the Prop All of this is discriminatory, Olson said. It The effort to undo California’s Proposition 8 8 proponents or Imperial County standing to harms gay Californians. There is no legal rational inched forward Dec. 6 when a three-judge panel allow the appeal to move forward. The judges basis for it. It cannot be “justified,” he said. of the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals enter- seemed unimpressed by Imperial County’s desire “California has built a fence around its gay tained nearly three hours of oral arguments from to be let into the case. Among other things, and lesbian citizens and around the institution the attorneys in the case. they seemed annoyed that the deputy county of marriage,” Olson told the judges. “That is a In an ornate courtroom on the third floor of clerk rather than the actual clerk is pursuing the violation of the equal-protection clause and it’s —Martina San Francisco’s historic James R. Browning U.S. move. a violation of the due-process clause.” Navratilova Courthouse, amid murals, stained glass and stat- As to whether the people who put Prop 8 on Attorney Charles Cooper for the Prop 8 pro- hospitalized ues dating to 1905, the attorneys replayed some the ballot should be allowed to step into the ponents told the judges that his case in de- of their main arguments and the judges offered shoes of the state government and defend a fense of Prop 8 centers on “procreation.” —Dustin Lance hints of where the case might go. piece of the state constitution that the state In Cooper’s view, it is rational for the state to Black (left), Log The gay side’s lawyers, who include famed itself refuses to defend, the judges hinted that limit marriage to men and women because the Cabins attorneys Ted Olson and David Boies, sought they might bounce that question off of the Cal- reason marriage exists in the first place is be- upset at HRC to defend U.S. District Judge Vaughn Walker’s ifornia Supreme Court to see how it feels about cause sex between men and women produces ruling from August that Prop 8 violates the U.S. the idea. If the 9th Circuit does that, it could de- children. The state, he suggested, has a unique —Berkeley, Calif. Constitution’s guarantees of equal protection lay appellate rulings on both the standing issue interest in human unions that are procreative. may honor gay and due process. and the merits of Walker’s decision. At the end of the day, court-watchers were WikiLeaks solidier They also argued that the parties who brought On the merits, Olson told the judges that Cal- talking about three things that piqued their cu- the appeal to the 9th Circuit -- the activists who ifornia has unconstitutionally “taken a class of riosity during the oral arguments: created Prop 8 and the deputy county clerk of citizens and put them in a separate category.” —Will the case be delayed so the 9th Circuit Southern California’s dusty Imperial County -- California gives same-sex couples all the rights panel can sound out the California Supreme Court Lesbian couple have no legal “standing” to have mounted this and obligations of marriage under a domestic- on the question of whether people who put ini- appeal of Walker’s ruling. partnership law, but prohibits gay couples from tiatives on the ballot should be able to defend honored at Those parties are trying to defend Prop 8 be- marrying. Under another law, gay couples who those initiatives when they are struck down by State Dept. cause all the public officials who were sued in go get married somewhere else also receive all courts? Regardless of whether the judges seek By REX WOCKNER the case —including Gov. Arnold Schwarzeneg- the California rights of marriage but are prohib- advice from the California Supreme Court, the ger and Attorney General (and Gov.-elect) Jerry ited from calling their marriage a marriage in case cannot proceed if the 9th Circuit decides A U.S. lesbian diplomat and her partner who Brown—have refused to defend the voter- California. Yet other gay couples, who got mar- that neither the Prop 8 proponents nor Imperial helped found Albania’s gay movement while passed state constitutional amendment that ried in California or somewhere else before Prop County has legal standing to appeal. If they do stationed there were honored at the State De- re-banned same-sex marriage in November 2008 8 passed, are considered to be married in Cali- not, Walker’s ruling striking down Prop 8 would partment on Dec. 2 with the Secretary of State after it had been legal for 4 1/2 months and fornia and are permitted to use the word. It’s come back into force. Award for Outstanding Volunteerism Overseas. —In hearing the appeal of Walker’s ruling, The award, handed out by the Associates of DADT from cover legislation until Congress passed a Republi- will the 9th Circuit rely solely on Walker’s ex- the American Foreign Service Worldwide, was can-backed tax cut extension. pansive trial record, which seems to demolish given to Melissa Schraibman, who worked at contains language to repeal DADT. But in the Gay groups working for passage of the most of the myths, lies, arguments and opinions the U.S. Embassy in Tirana as a resident legal end, said Reid, Republicans were clearly bent DADT repeal measure were deeply disap- that historically have been used to oppress gay adviser, and her partner, Mindy Michels. on killing the repeal. pointed. and lesbian people? Or will the 9th Circuit look It was presented by Deputy Secretary of “I’ve bent over backwards, but it’s clear that Aubrey Sarvis, head of the Servicemembers at additional sources of information and seek State James Steinberg in a ceremony that was Republicans…don’t want to have a vote on Legal Defense Network (SLDN), called it an out other “facts”? The court hinted that it may attended by former U.S. ambassadors to Alba- [Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell],” said Reid, “and they’re outrage and urged the Senate to stay in ses- review more than just the District Court’s find- nia John Withers and Marcie Ries. doing whatever they can to stand in the way sion “to find another path for repeal to get ings. It was the first time the Secretary of State of this bill.” done in the lame-duck.” —And has the 9th Circuit perhaps hinted Award recognized efforts to promote LGBT But Collins, who has been the considered a “While difficult,” acknowledged Sarvis, “real- that it plans to uphold Walker’s decision but rights. deal-maker for Republicans on the measure, istic options still exist for advocates and Sena- in a way that would limit the case’s impact to “This was, of course, extremely personally rushed to the floor following Reid’s remarks tors to move repeal this year.” California, the only state that ever let gays get meaningful for Melissa and me, as the work on and suggested she was baffled at Reid’s deci- It is not clear what those options are. Most married and then later took that right away the Albanian LGBT movement was our primary sion to call for reconsideration of last Septem- observers have made clear that if the Senate from them? The court spent a fair amount of focus over the last nearly two years,” Michels ber’s failed vote to break the Republican-led rejected the motion to send the Defense bill time discussing a 1996 case from Colorado in said. “But it is also something that has larger filibuster on the measure. to the floor, the repeal of DADT was effectively which the U.S. Supreme Court struck down a meaning, as I think it was the first time that “I want to vote to proceed to this bill,” said dead for this Congressional session. The next state constitutional amendment that deprived this sort of volunteerism and diplomacy on LGBT Collins, saying it was a “vitally important bill. Congressional session includes a Congressio- gay people of anti-discrimination protections human rights has been recognized in a formal “I just do not understand why we can’t pro- nal make-up that provides very few prospects that Colorado governments previously had ex- and high-level way as an important part of the ceed along a path that will bring us to success for passage of the legislation. tended to them. work done by government employees serving and allow us to get the 60 votes to proceed,” Sen. Joe Lieberman, I-Conn., sent out a A “narrow” ruling against Prop 8 by the 9th abroad.” she said. “I’m willing to be one of those votes. tweet around 5 p.m. ET saying he and Collins Circuit could bring same-sex marriage back to Michels said the announcement of the win- I thought we were extremely close.” are immediately introducing a free-standing California but possibly thwart Olson, Boies and ners goes to every U.S. embassy worldwide. Reid complimented Collins for her efforts bill to repeal DADT and that Reid has agreed the American Foundation for Equal Rights’ de- and said she was not the problem. The prob- to bring it to the floor in the lame-duck ses- sire to take before the U.S. Supreme Court the —Assistance: Bill Kelley lem, he said, was the GOP’s announced de- sion. proposition that same-sex couples have a con- termination to obstruct consideration of any ©2010 Keen News Service stitutional right to get married in all states.

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Against the backdrop of its annual holiday party Dec. 10, the Center on Halsted launched its new homesharing program, which aims to help LGBT seniors and provide affordable housing to rent- ers. Modesto “Tico” Valle, the center’s CEO, thanked everyone in attendance and remarked that more than 1,000 people have come through the doors every day since the Center opened about four years ago. Valle celebrated the victories of the LGBT community, both nationally and statewide, making note of the recent Civil Unions bill that was passed in Springfield. He then went on to outline the work the Center is doing to help prevent bullying and improve the lives of the transgender community and LGBT immigrants, as well as many other initiatives. Then Victoria Raymont, the center’s board chair and development committee chair, took to the microphone where she sang the praises of Valle’s work and noted they will be bringing on Late-er Night Andersonville more board members as the New Year begins. Friday, December 17, 6 – 10 pm Raymont shared the work the board has done regarding publicity, outreach, cultivation of new Dedicated to procrastinators everywhere, Andersonville offers one more leaders and as strategic partners with Valle in night with shops open late, BIG discounts on great gifts and meals plus free continuing the center’s work. Raymont tearfully refreshments and entertainment! Pick up a Late Night coupon at Anderson- told the story of David Mayer, who lost his part- ville businesses or online at andersonville.org. ner after many, many years and then came to the SAGE Program for help. Mayer then came forward and he said “the best thing since losing my partner was finding a home here,” which got a warm Your ride’s on us! response from the crowd. From now until New Year’s, we’ll reimburse your Andersonville parking or Hope Bennett, senior director of public pro- CTA fare when you spend $20 or more at any Andersonville business. grams, introduced Britta Larson, who is the ho- Visit www.andersonville.org/freeride for details. mesharing manager. Larson took to the microphone and praised the center for starting this program despite the bad economy. She outlined Complete holiday listings at the challenges of aging in the LGBT community, including isolation, loneliness and the lack of www.andersonville.org extended family members and in many cases Sponsored by the Andersonville Chamber of Commerce. children who can help them. She said that in 65 percent of cases, LGBT seniors live alone, which makes it hard for them to stay in their own homes. As LGBT adults age they face financial hardships (since they do not receive their partners’ social security or pension benefits after they die) so they are more likely to enter nursing homes and assisted living facilities at an earlier age. There, Larson added, they face discrimination and, in some cases, have to go back into the closet. Then Larson went into the logistic of the program and said “it will look different in each case” between the provider and renter. She noted the benefits will include financial savings, compan- ionship, safety and security. The requirements for entering the program are: the provider will have to have a minimum of two bedrooms in his or her home, apartment or condo and the renter 6 Dec. 15, 2010 WINDY CITY TIMES Howard Brown announces board changes by Yasmin Nair by those who have called for the immediate res- ignation of the board, but given HBHC’s history Since the revelation about its financial crisis, of being closely guarded about the operation of Howard Brown Health Center (HBHC) has been the board and the extent of the financial crisis faced with calls that the board and staff mem- in which it finds itself, questions are likely to bers responsible should resign. On Dec. 6, the emerge about how much oversight there might organization’s board announced what it called be over its new process. a “Responsible Transition Plan.” According to its Edwards, in response to questions from WCT, timeline, there will be an entirely new board by said that he had “recommended that the board the start of the next fiscal year starting July 1, appoint a selection committee that will be 2011. [composed] of some board members, some staff The plan will be executed in two phases: representatives, representatives from the com- First, the executive committee of the board munity … and also our stakeholders, such as and additional members will resign effective our foundation and corporate grantors—so that Dec. 31. These are Board Chair Mark Andrews, it’s independent and transparent and community Laura Angelucci, Janet E. Henderson, Steven focused. That selection committee is now in the Phelps, Brett Stolz and Charles Katzenmeyer. process of being formed.” Asked about his own This leaves the board reduced by about half of input, he said he would make his own recom- its members but with enough to fulfill funding mendations but that the decisions would rest From left: Howard Brown’s Mark Andrews and Jamal Edwards. Photo by Kat Fitzgerald and grant requirements, including the critical with the committee. Edwards has, in the past, Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) ap- spoken about wanting the board to be broadly we can go to for short-term support. So there is boards also need to have structures in place to plication that requires at least nine members. representative of community interests. no plan or expectation that we’re going to cut prevent problems. Pointing to the fallout of the FQHCs are required to ensure that at least 51 Boards are also required to have some kind of any services or run the risk of shutting down at Bernie Madoff scandal, she said that one of the percent of board members be people who oversight committee or person to ensure that the end of the year.” HBHC’s strategic plan is to hard lessons from that was too many nonprof- use the organization’s services. This has not they understand their responsibilities, and HBHC be unveiled in the beginning of 2011. its had boards consisting of people brought on been the case at HBHC; CEO Jamal Edwards has not had that in the past. According to Ed- Responding to the latest news, community because they agreed with each other, resulting acknowledged that “in the past we could have wards, HBHC has applied to The Law Project—an members greeted the news with studied caution in damaging investments with no oversight. (A done a better job of recruiting board members organization that provides pro bono legal assis- and indicated their support for the organization. lot of nonprofits lost money through Madoff, who are actively engaged in our services—and tance to nonprofits—to have it review its bylaws Rick Garcia, political director of Equality Illinois who especially used their common link—Jewish we’re going to do that.” and conflicts of interest policies “to make sure and a client of HBHC, said that he had “the connections—to exploit them.) This could have Remaining board members will seek and fill that they meet the gold standard of governance highest regard and respect for Howard Brown been prevented if the boards had a diversity applications for new board members and en- and control for an organization and FQHC.” because they provide services to people who not just of race, “but of opinion and skill level. sure the transition. Of the remaining members, Edwards said that HBHC had already met 80 otherwise would not have services particularly If you had a board that consisted of all your only Frank Buttitta and Karma Israelsen, who percent of its goal of the first 500,000 and he trans people. I know transgender folks who come friends, you weren’t able to execute the kind of joined in the summer and fall of this year, re- was sure that 100 percent would be met by Dec. from as far away as Rockford and Decatur so that fiduciary evaluation that was required to be able spectively, after changes had begun, will not 23. In the event that this did not happen, “we they’re treated with respect.” to see that this person Madoff was selling some- step down. have one resource [an anonymous organization However, Garcia also pointed out that a new thing based on prejudice. The announcement is likely to be supported which has already made a significant donation] board was essential for many in the community “The problem is that when you have a board to regain their trust in the organization, saying with people of similar minds and opinions, that he knew “many people who said, ‘Don’t give you’re not pulling a diversity of viewpoints or a them a dime until that board of directors and diversity of skills that allows for you to be able those executive officers are gone because they to say, ‘Oh, you’re making these financial deci- either knew about the problem or if they didn’t sions and perhaps you don’t have that experi- know about the problem. What were they do- ence.’ And that’s why you need to have some- ing?’” Garcia added that “Howard Brown needs one on your board who does have the financial to continue because it does a great service for experience. I think it’s a general comment on this community, and those who have mishandled nonprofits. Recruitment, orientation, evalua- this great service over the past couple of years tion, feedback, learning opportunities—there’s

© 2010 C.B. Fleet Company, Inc. need to be gone. From top to bottom.” a whole checklist of things that need to hap- Mona Noriega, currently a doctoral student at pen at the board level. And so I wonder if those UIC, was previously regional director of Lamb- were in place [at HBHC].” da Legal and a board chair of Girl’s Best Friend, Noriega also emphasized that the HBHC case a foundation that closed its doors in 2007. As allowed “an opportunity to learn. ... How do we an adjunct, Noriega has also taught a class in use this as a community to learn how we sup- the nonprofit-management program course port nonprofits? There must be something we in Loyola’s social work program. She toLD WCT can learn from this and not suffer this particular that what happened to HBHC needed to be loss.” considered in the larger context of what was WCT contacted HBHC Board Chair Mark An- happening to all nonprofits, not just the gay drews for an interview, but he did not respond ones, in a bad economy that “reveals the weak- before the publication went to press. nesses all over the place.” According to Noriega, a critical role of any board is to “oversee the financials.” But that, she Center on said, is also what most board members are least

likely to want to do, simply because it is among Halsted’s survey the most unpleasant` tasks: “People just run A survey sponsored by Center on Halsted from that. Many people can’t figure out how to and AIDS Community Research Initiative of KEEP IT CLEAN. NATURALLY. look at the balance sheet, how to look at the America (ACRIA) has begun. cash flow. Those are tools that are required. The The purpose of the survey is to collect data board is required to look at those. The board is on the health and psychosocial needs of LGBT supposed to be responsible.” older adults, especially those aging with HIV, Noriega emphasized that while she could not who live in Chicago. speak to the particulars of HBHC, the problem For their survey, they need to recruit 250 with nonprofits139231_c01 RSCG Euro 05/11/10 jmd in general is “the challenge of participants of diverse backgrounds who are getting qualified people, whether staff or board, age 50 and over and identify as LGBT. Also, to understand what their roles and responsibili- 125 of the 250 participants recruited should be HIV-positive. INTRODUCING FLEET® NATURALS CLEANSING ENEMAS. ties are.” People often come to their membership on a board with passion, “but passion’s just The survey is anonymous and confidential. Gentle enough for daily use, now you can feel clean not enough.” She spoke of the need for better On average, it takes 45 minutes to do and and fresh—without the drugs found in laxative enemas. leadership training and skills development, “be- the participant will receive a $25 “Thank you” Visa gift card after completion. cause nonprofits requireWindy City Times Weekly June 23, 2010 Donkey 240Dmax not only people who Drug Free | Safe For Daily Use | Hygienic are invested in their communities but who are Call 773-472-6469 to set up an appoint- skilled.” ment. At the same time, according to Noriega, WINDY CITY TIMES Dec. 15, 2010 7 and share their experiences of inequality, dis- money will ever compensate Roben for what she respect, and dehumanization. A choir is more has been through. But, corporations understand Wal-Mart likely to be heard than one individual voice.” that when money is paid out on an employment Tsamis said her goal with the Hall case is to claim, their directors will expect an explanation worker help identify more victims of same-sex sexual and future preventive measures which could or sexual-orientation harassment and discrimi- include policies that give managers and em- alleges sexual nation at Wal-Mart, educate the public about ployees guidance and provide consequences for the fact that same-sex sexual harassment is il- same-sex sexual harassment.” harassment legal, and compensate Roben for some of her Windy City Times attempted to contact Wal- By Ross Forman damages.” Mart for a response, but had not heard from the Even though, Tsamis added, “No amount of corporation as the issue went to press. A battle of David-vs.-Goliath proportions is brewing in the far northwest suburbs, with po- munity in different ways, too. Facebook and tentially huge ramifications to/for the world- Howard Brown Twitter are excellent, cost-effective ways to wide LGBT community. communicate and connect with people who Roben Hall, 37, who lives in Carpentersville, announces new support our mission,” said HBHC President /CEO claims she was subjected to sexual harassment matching grant Jamal Edwards. “Many Howard Brown Facebook for about 19 months while working as an over- Howard Brown Health Center (HBHC) has fans have commented on our fan page and con- night stocker at the Wal-Mart in East Dundee. announced a new $25,000 matching grant de- tinue to follow our 50 Stories in 50 Days series The case is set for a hearing Feb. 11, 2011, be- signed to make new friends on social-online on YouTube. These one to two-minute real life fore the Illinois Human Rights Commission. The networks and to raise funds for the Lifeline Ap- videos are what Howard Brown is all about— Human Rights Campaign filed a complaint on peal. the people and programs that change and save Hall’s behalf. Called “The Power of 25 Campaign,” the lives.” “Ms. Hall was subjected to sexual harassment challenge aims to generate 1,000 new, social- The donor—whose personal story will be by a female co-worker,” said Hall’s attorney, networking fans for the center, which has been shared Thursday, Dec. 23, as the final 50 Sto- Betty Tsamis. “Despite Roben’s repeated com- involved in HIV/AIDS research and healthcare ries in 50 Days—has reportedly been thrilled plaints to her managers, Wal-Mart allowed the for more than 25 years. with the rapid response by the community to illegal conduct to occur. According to Roben, Sponsored by the same anonymous donor the Lifeline Appeal, and wanted to commemo- one manager told her that he didn’t have to who already gave $100,000 that was matched rate and honor HBHC with a special challenge investigate Roben’s complaint because it in- Betty Tsamis, who represents the complain- by public contributions before the Nov. 30 for World AIDS Day. volved two women.” ant. Photo courtesy of Tsamis deadline, The Power of 25 Campaign will gener- To date, Howard Brown’s Lifeline Appeal has Hall was fired by Wal-Mart—and Wal-Mart ate $25 for each new Howard Brown Facebook raised $340,000, which is nearly 70 percent has threatened action against Hall for filing populations, I will strive to avoid mindsets fan, up to $25,000. of its goal of $500,000-in-50-days in order to complaints “in bad faith” if she continues to and comments such as when a person of the Existing Howard Brown Facebook, Twitter sustain current services and lay a strong foun- maintain this action, Tsamis said. same gender touches and violates another of and YouTube friends will be asked to recruit 25 dation for Howard Brown to continue its recov- “In our view, this is yet another form of retali- the same gender. Comments such as, ‘Aren’t of their friends to join them as a fan or follow- ery efforts. ation designed to silence a victim,” Tsamis said. people like you [gays] into that stuff anyway?’ er. With this exciting new challenge, Howard The Lifeline Appeal funds will help ensure “Obviously, Wal-Mart, America’s largest corpo- or ‘Sexual harassment complaints do not have Brown hopes to have more than 3,000 Face- that Howard Brown can continue providing ration, has the financial resources to go after to be investigated between parties of the same book fans—and at least as many supporters— services to more than 36,000 people annually. Roben in any number of ways. To threaten to gender,’ or, ‘Because you have a disability, you by the campaign’s last day, Wed. Dec. 15. To donate to Howard Brown’s Lifeline appeal, go after her if she maintains her suit is simply can’t handle more than entry-level work.’ All “We are thinking and behaving differently at visit http://www.HowardBrown.org or call a demonstration of bad faith. Wal-Mart should of these derogatory mindsets and transgres- Howard Brown, and reaching out to our com- 773-388-1600. find someone its own size to pick on.” sions, I have encountered in my experiences. Tsamis is a prominent local attorney who is I hope that my complaints against Wal-Mart committed to helping LGBT employees who Stores Inc., challenge the lack of acceptance of have few places to turn when faced with work- LGBT individuals, individuals with disabilities, place discrimination and/or harassment. And and other minorities in [the] workplace and she said same-sex sexual harassment in the encourage others to come forward, speak out, workplace is more common, especially over the past two years, largely due to the fact that LGBT people are now more informed about Tunney, chamber their rights in the workplace. “There has been reluctance by LGBT people comment on to come forward and report discrimination/ha- Wal-Mart rumors

rassment because they fear retaliation,” Tsamis Ald. Tom Tunney of Chicago’s 44th Ward © 2010 C.B. Fleet Company, Inc. said. “Often, same-sex sexual harassment is not has issued a statement on his website re- taken seriously by managers and the victim- sponding to rumors that Wal-Mart may ized employee suffers while the employer al- move into Lakeview, near the corner of lows the conduct to continue. The fallout from Clark, Broadway and Diversey. this is that the conduct unreasonably interferes Tunney stated: “I have recently heard that with the employee’s ability to perform their job [Wal-Mart] may be interested in renting a lo- which later could result in disciplinary action cation here in the 44th Ward. I have not seen against the employee without the employer any conceptual plans for a proposed store in ever being held accountable for the illegal Lakeview. If any plans come forward, it will workplace harassment.” be vetted through a rigorous community Hall is currently pursuing a master’s degree in process. rehabilitation counseling, specializing in sup- “As a small business owner, I understand porting and advocating for individuals with dis- the impact any big-box retailer would have abilities. She graduated cum laude from North- on our neighborhood. We will work togeth- ern Illinois University in 2007 with a bachelor’s er, residents and businesses, to continue to

degree in psychology, a minor in communicative make our community a better place to live, disorders and a certificate in LGBT studies. She raise a family, shop and own a business.” KEEP IT CLEAN. NATURALLY. ` is now working as a certified pharmacy techni- In a statement, the Lakeview East Cham- cian at a long-term care pharmacy to support ber of Commerce said, “The Lakeview East her schooling. Chamber of Commerce understands the “In my opinion, under-represented groups, negative impact [Wal-Mart] will have for such as persons with disabilities or people in small business and neighbors are question- the LGBT community, continue to struggle for ing the choice of location for this higher in- equal treatment in the workplace,” Hall said. come residential community.” The chamber

“The nine years I worked at Wal-Mart Stores quoted a resident, Bruce Beal, who stated, 139231_a01 RSCG Euro 05/11/10 jmd Inc., only solidified my opinions. My experienc- “There are plenty of communities in Chica- es at Wal-Mart Stores Inc., have led to feelings go where Walmart is needed and would be of isolation, experiences of intense scrutiny, welcomed ...just not in ours.” INTRODUCING FLEET® NATURALS CLEANSING ENEMAS. and experiences of feeling devalued and de- The chamber also indicated that it was humanized; [and also serve as a] motivation for formed a Facebook page, “Stop the Lakev- Gentle enough for daily use, now you can feel clean me to complete the LGBT studies certification iew/Lincoln Park Walmart.” and fresh—without the drugs found in laxative enemas. and continue my education in Rehabilitation That intersection is already crowded with Windy City Times Weekly May 26, 2010 Caboose 240Dmax Counseling to advocate for individuals with numerous small businesses and some big- Drug Free | Safe For Daily Use | Hygienic disabilities. box retailers, including Borders. “In my future work with under-represented 8 Dec. 15, 2010 WINDY CITY TIMES connection between poverty, health issues de- go House and their son, Jeremy, who works as Albright at nial of basic human rights and other significant the social service agency’s manager of special problems. Educating people and teaching them events and fundraising. Helene said she and Chicago House 21st-century skills will help lessen the number her husband heard former President Bill Clin- of people living in poverty, she said. With the ton speak at the inaugural luncheon last year. event: ‘We can’t utilization of those strategies, Albright said the She and her husband try to go to as many Chi- number of people without access to clean water cago House events as they can. relax now’ in South Asia has been cut in half in the past “We support everything they do,” Michael Madeleine Albright speaks at two decades. She also said the United States Hilborn said. Chicago House luncheon: U.S. needs needs to devote more of its resources to helping The event also included a video presentation to make fighting poverty, those in the developing world. featuring testimonials from Chicago House HIV epidemic a top priority “We have to look at this more carefully,” Al- clients Cynthia King, a Chicago House Family By Helen Adamopoulos bright said. “We cannot have peace of mind if Support Program Resident, and her son, Tony. our neighbors lack even a piece of bread.” The Kings spoke about how Chicago House’s According to former U.S. Secretary of State Albright also discussed what it was like be- services—which include housing, career coun- Madeleine Albright, three principles are essen- ing the first female secretary of state. When she seling and college preparatory and vocational tial to maintaining a successful democracy and initially took office, she said she noted that her programs for kids—turned their lives around, fighting global ills. predecessors were all white men who varied from helping Tony successfully complete high school The first is to take action instead of just talk- each other only in whether they had a beard, and enroll in college. The Kings were also pres- Madeleine Albright. Photo by Kat Fitzgerald ing about what needs to be done. Second, ev- a mustache or were clean-shaven. Now, things ent at the luncheon. eryone must feel solidarity with others world- have definitely changed. Albright recalled her All proceeds from the event (ticket prices wide. Third, each and every individual counts. I felt completely without power,” Albright said. granddaughter asking what the big deal was ranged from $150 to $750) will go to the for- Albright said Chicago House—a social service However, Albright pointed out that world lead- about her grandmother’s former position, since merly homeless and those affected by HIV or agency that has provided those affected by HIV ers do have the capability to fight the spread “all secretaries of state are girls.” AIDS in Chicago House’s programs. At the be- or AIDS with housing and support programs of HIV and AIDS. She mentioned the Ugandan “It’s beginning to look like we may never have ginning of the luncheon, Chicago House CEO since 1985—is the champion of those key prin- government’s public education campaign as an a secretary of state who’s a man,” Albright said. the Rev. Stan Sloan announced that the event ciples. example. The effort—called “the big noise”— Helene Hilborn, who attended the luncheon had raised about $250,000 so far. Albright made that declaration as the key- reduced HIV infection rates by 50 percent, she with her husband, Michael, said seeing Albright For more information about Chicago House, note speaker at the second Annual Chicago said. was “a fantastic opportunity.” The Hilborns said visit http://www.chicagohouse.org. House Speaker Series Luncheon Dec. 9. In front “During my years as secretary of state, I saw they attended the luncheon to support Chica- of an audience of more than 1,200 people at firsthand the difference between good leader- the Palmer House Hilton, Albright spoke about ship on this issue and bad,” Albright said. fighting poverty and HIV on a global scale as Thanks to activism and good leadership, she Project CRYSP well as her experience as the first female secre- acknowledged that those fighting against the tary of state. epidemic have made considerable progress since forum tackles Albright described how she witnessed the she left office. The number of children infected impact of the AIDS epidemic through her in- with HIV at birth has dropped 25 percent, she anti-LGBT hate By Tully Satre ternational affairs work. She said she spoke said. Still, Albright warned activists not to get to women with HIV and AIDS in Africa whose complacent as a result of that accomplishment. Every year Project CRYSP, an organization com- families shunned them. She also encountered “The struggle against AIDS has not yet been mitted to gay men’s health in Chicago, holds women who were afraid to get tested because won,” Albright said. “We can’t relax now.” four community forums addressing issues they didn’t want to be ostracized, and she held In order to win the battle against the spread across the board. Project CRYSP’s last forum children who were born with HIV and already of disease, the United States and other nations of the year, “It’s Not Just ‘Faggot!,’” addressed dying. need to make helping the poor a priority, Al- the ever-pressing issue of homo/transphobia; “Here I was, America’s secretary of state, and bright said. She added that there is a direct the Dec. 8 town hall packed the Center on Halsted’s Hoover-Leppin Theatre. Dr. Simone Koehlinger of the Cook County Department of Public Health was the evening’s moderator. She opened the forum saying that homophobia is not just about “telling me that you ‘tolerate’ me,” adding that, “if you tell me that you’re celebrating and supporting me then we have something to talk about.” The forum sought to find solutions to bat- Lessons begin January 4 tling homophobia and was led by a panel of Keith Green at World of Chocolate. Photo community leaders: Keith Green (Chicago Black by Kat Fitzgerald Gay Men’s Caucus), Rick Garcia (Equality Il- Starting at $105, you get four lessons linois) and Lois Bates (Howard Brown Health that “Equality Illinois is committed to stopping Center). over four weeks taught by top pros. institutional violence in our schools,” and that Gay teen suicides were frequently highlighted the organization is speaking with mayoral can- You’ll also enjoy two parties, our by the media in the latter half of 2010, making didates about getting Chicago Public Schools practice lanes and ﬁtness center. Project CRYSP’s town hall particularly timely. on board. “Institutional homophobia ... starts early,” Two weeks ago the Illinois General Assem- said Green. “There is a lack of comprehensive Don’t have a racquet? bly passed legislation granting civil unions to sexual education in the school system.” Green same-sex couples; Gov. Quinn has promised to We’ll lend you one. noted that for LGBT youth, being left out of the sign the bill. Despite this victory, Green said Busy schedule? conversation in a sex-ed class is a subtle, but the LGBT community “still has a long way to serious, form of homophobia that can lead gay We’ve got tons of times go. We are not yet equal.” teens to feel alone. to choose from. “For the last five years I have worked on this “When we walk out of [the Center on Hal- bill to make us second class citizens,” said Gar- sted], what do we see on this street?” Garcia cia, who was at the forefront of granting civil Midtown membership asked the audience, “Kids,” replied one audi- union to same-sex couples in Illinois from the ence member. Garcia continued, “Why are they not required. beginning. “I will tell you that there is a meth- not in school? And then I realized why they Space is limited. od to our madness,” Garcia continued stating are not in school.” Garcia, who sits on the that Equality Illinois saw the passage of civil governor’s hate crimes commission, explained unions as a step, though the organization still that during a statewide tour of Illinois’ public believes there should be one institution for ev- schools, he and several others spoke with stu- 773.235.2300 erybody. dents about issues they felt needed to be ad- When equal marriage legislation was intro- dressed. The primary concern, Garcia learned, duced in 2005, many elected officials opted was bullying and that teachers and administra- for civil unions, and Garcia acknowledged that tors were doing nothing to stop it. “We need to LGBT citizens in Illinois needed legal protec- make sure that our next mayor makes a priority tions now. “Is it enough?” Garcia asked, “No. protecting LGBT children who are on our streets Are we satisfied with it? No. Because we all 2020 West Fullerton Avenue who should be [in school],” he added. needed to be treated fairly with one set of Chicago, IL 60647 Nodding to this year’s anti-bullying bill rules and one yard stick.” passed by the Illinois General Assembly, Garcia midtown.com Read more about this forum online at http:// said teachers and administrators who do noth- www.WindyCityMediaGroup.com. ing to stop bullying should be fired. He added WINDY CITY TIMES Dec. 15, 2010 9 you play in helping to craft “Don’t Ask, Don’t WCT: Let’s move on to another piece of WCT: There are people within the LGBT com- RAHM from cover Tell [DADT]?” legislation: DOMA [the Defense of Marriage munity who feel that President Obama is RE: Even as chief of staff, I want it to end as Act]—was signed in 1996. Do you feel that it moving a bit slowly when it comes to issues working with President Obama or being elected soon as possible. I was literally on the phone should be repealed? that [directly] concern them? What would to Congress from the North Side, all of those this morning with Susan Collins, the senator RE: Yes. Always have. You can go back to my you tell those people? things prepared me for dealing with the great- from Maine; she’s a good friend of mine. This is questionnaire when I ran for Congress that was RE: At some point we’re going to get to a est city with the greatest people in the country. no longer a question of “whether”—it’s a ques- in your own paper. forward basis. I’m honored that when I was a But we’re at a crossroads—and I think the folks tion of “when.” If you go back into the history WCT: So, back in ‘96 do you think that Clin- congressman, based on HRC’s [the Human Rights know that we have to turn the page begin a new of the debate, there was always “how disrup- ton should not have signed it? Campaign’s] record, I got a 100 percent. I’m era, building on what’s happened but maybe tive [repealing DADT] would be, etc.” And one RE: Look: I’m loyal to President Clinton. I’m honored that I got the largest grant ever from taking things in a different direction. of the things the president—who wants this to loyal to President Obama. What my advice was... the federal government for a gay and lesbian en- When I left the Clinton White House, I came end fast—wanted was a study done; I remember I don’t need to get into what I personally ad- tity, which is the building you and I are sitting home to Chicago. When I got done with college, that meeting. And now that the study’s done, vised them or what my own sympathies were. in. I came home to Chicago. I want my kids to know those who are opponents of ending [DADT] can’t I believe that legislation should be repealed. I don’t know if you this, but this facility [Cen- that this is home—and the decisions we make hide behind—because there’s data that relates I believe that gays and lesbians should be al- ter on Halsted] wanted to honor me with a major will determine whether the city stays at that to the armed forces—opinions [or] values. lowed to get married. That’s why I thought the dinner because of what I did—and why? [It was fighting weight with London, Paris, New York, The whole country is in a different place than civil unions [are] the right thing to do, but it’s the] $1.2 million, which, if it wasn’t for a fed- Hong Kong, Singapore. It’s one of the greatest it was in 1993 [when the policy was introduced]. only the first step toward an ultimate goal. eral match, this wouldn’t have been built—the cities to do business in, one of the greatest cit- And ... I’ve worked for a president who [passed] If you look into my record when I was a United most modern facility in the country as it relates ies to raise a family in—that’s gotta be true go- a hate-crimes bill on his watch—an event that States congressman, I sponsored the legisla- to gay and lesbian communities. People from ing forward as well. [initally] brought Mr. [Matthew] Shepard’s inci- tion and I was clear about the legislation, and around the world actually come to look at it, WCT: I don’t want to get too deep in the res- dent to the country’s attention, under President I worked with the leadership in moving legis- study and take lessons. [Repeatedly slaps hand idency bit. [Emanuel laughs.] But I do want Clinton. But the bill finally got passed, under lation. What I did in the White House for the on table for emphasis] Largest grant in the his- to ask if these challenges surprise you, or do President Obama. presidents is ... I’ve got to respect the privacy tory of the country for the gay and lesbian com- you feel it’s “politics as usual?” Number two: President Obama signed the [regarding] how I give advice. munity. RE: It’s a little of both, but it’s more surprise. executive order that I worked on because of a Let me give an example: I never wrote a book Last year, there were how many at the big gala Here’s the deal: Two years ago I got elected as story David Boul from Chicago told me about the about my years with President Clinton. And I’ve dinner? That was exactly the time that [wife] a United States congressman with 75 percent visiting rights in Florida. He signed the execu- announced that I’ll never write about my years Amy and I were taking Zachariah and the family of the vote. I pay property taxes here, I voted tive order, making sure hospitals that were get- with President Obama. I do not believe a staff to Israel for his bar mitzvah. So I couldn’t do it, from here and the only reason I left the home ting AIDS funding could no longer discriminate. person should do that. And I’ve turned out mil- but I was honored that I was asked. we had just finished fixing up is because the “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” under President Clin- lions of dollars. I don’t think I’ll publicize the My own view is that a number of things were president of the United States asked me to be ton? Given where the country was, given where advice I’ve given presidents, when they’ve asked put into place. Landmark legislation was signed, his chief of staff, and I was raised in a family the armed forces were, given where the top for it. That’s the advice they’re asking me. hate-crimes legislation, landmark executive or- where there’s only one answer to that question. brass of the armed forces where, given his policy And people [may think], “We should know...” ders as it relates to visiting rights—all because When the president of the United States asks priorities with ending discrimination—in retro- That’s life. I never wrote a book, [and] I won’t a member of the Chicago community told me you to do something, you do it. spect, it’s what he could get done. And Presi- write a book. I have to respect the privacy. about a story, and I convened a meeting later It never crossed my mind that—having just dent Obama, like President Clinton today, wants WCT: And what are your thoughts on ENDA that week ... to craft the executive order that, gotten elected to Congress, owning a home to end that policy. They want to advance the [the Employment Non-Discrimination Act]? ultimately, the president signed. In addition, we here, being in a place where my family’s roots country to a different place, and we are a dif- Do you feel it should be inclusive of gender dealt with immigration as it relates to the gay go back to 1917, paying property taxes here ferent country than we were in 1993. In this identity? and lesbian community. and voting from here—answering the presi- role [under Obama], I was chief of staff; when RE: I worked to try to pass it, so that’s what There is work to be done. Civil unions? Great dent’s call was a disqualifier. that happened, I was the political director under I believe. We first dealt with hate crimes and in victory, but there’s work to be done. The presi- WCT: Well, we’re going to time-travel back President Clinton—totally different roles, totally Congress, when we first took over the majority, to those Clinton years. How much of a role did Turn to page 10 different responsibilities. one of the things we tried to do was pass it. GET GIVE TESTED. &TO TPAN.

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TEST POSITIVE AWARE NETWORK 5537 N. BROADWAY ST., CHICAGO | (773) 989-9400 | WWW.TPAN.COM 10 Dec. 15, 2010 WINDY CITY TIMES RAHM from page 9 cago academy that had a teacher program that I firmly believe in, and I took another six ques- dent would be the first to say there’s more work tions from reporters. Wednesday, I took about to be done. We have to end “Don’t Ask, Don’t 20 questions from Greg at WGN Radio, and I vis- Tell;” we have to do other pieces of legislation ited [another] school. I visit “L” stops in the as they relate to healthcare. morning and in the evening. There’s no shortage You assess the accomplishment, but you un- of my presence in the community taking ques- derstand that our mission isn’t done. I appre- tions from reporters and people in the city of ciate what the president has gotten done, but Chicago. don’t rest on your laurels—and that would be my And I have agreed to three debates—so my approach. I’m proud to have been the chief of view is, “Don’t worry about the debates about staff that helped marshal the votes that finally, the debates.” I’ve issued nine position papers, after numerous tries, pass hate-crimes legisla- more than any other candidate. I’ll arrange the tion. That said, you don’t rest on your laurels. If subjects. you did, you would have never done the hospi- WCT: What’s the biggest misconception tal executive order [or] change the immigration about you? policy. I think the president—I don’t want to RE: There are a ton, I’m sure. [Smiles] speak for him; that’s not my role—wouldn’t rest In the gay and lesbian community, they know on hate crimes or the executive order. He’s ap- my work here or I’m blamed for the creation preciative of his sense of progress in ending dis- of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell,” but they don’t know crimination or making gays and lesbians feel like anything about my personal life or personal sto- they’re full citizens, but he would say, “One’s ries. work is not done.” When President Clinton came in to campaign WCT: There are some who feel Democrats for me, he said, “Rahm’s a breath of fresh air—a take the LGBT vote for granted. gale force.” Dee Dee Myers—we had offices next to each other in the White House—used to joke, RE: The best way I can answer this is [that] Rahm Emanuel (right) with Gary Chichester at this year’s Gay and Lesbian Hall of Fame cer- saying I was Alan Alda with an Uzi. [Laughs] I just don’t buy the premise. If you bought the emony. Photo by Hal Baim premise, you wouldn’t have to pass civil unions; I’m determined to get things done, but it’s you’d get it because it was right. I didn’t ask what motivates me. [I don’t want] to drive just be around for the inaugural of President Clinton; [Smiles] The first day when I was back in Chi- to drive. Whether it was passing the assault- Robert Kohl to co-chair my campaign just to he died four weeks after that. Times I came to cago campaigning, where did I end my stop? I garner favor in the gay and lesbian community. weapon ban; creating the kids’ healthcare bill Chicago I went to see him as he was dying. [He did 16 stops that day—but I was here at the and the insurance companies were trying to I don’t think anybody takes anybody for granted; was] the best man at my wedding. He’s gay, and center. it’s about your principles, OK? There are political block it; [or] passing welfare reform—I fight for his partner is a city council member in Seattle. We’ve agreed to three debates. Every morn- things that I believe in, not just to fight for. benefits to having done work, but it’s about who So why am I proud of my professional record? ing, I’m greeting voters, talking to them. This you are [and] what you are. And I think what people don’t see is where the The issues that affect the gay and lesbian com- week alone? On Sunday, I had a press confer- motivation comes from and what drives that. Robert is co-chair of my campaign. David munity have been part of my life. So I’m proud ence on job creation [regarding] conservation Boul, a leader in the gay and lesbian community So I got the hard image, but it’s on behalf of to do this interview here. In fact, it’s one of the and weather, and I took six questions from re- a set of people for something I think improves in Chicago, was treasurer of my congressional things Amy and I have made personal charitable porters. I’ve visited schools, talked to teachers races and is treasurer of my mayoral race. ... their lives. contributions to. and principals—that charter school, Woodlawn. See http://www.ChicagoForRahm.com. These are people who are close to me and know The first community that ever did a “Draft Tuesday, I did another press conference at a Chi- my work, and I know their work and their love of Rahm to run for mayor” was the gay and lesbian the city. community. The reason is, I hope, is because of Chicago team and even fewer represent the ethnic/racial [At this point, campaign manager Ben LaBolt, my work as a member of Congress, my work as backgrounds of MSM most severely impacted noting that there are only a few minutes left, chief of staff and my work for President Clinton responds to by HIV in this country—Black MSM. suggests that Emanuel talks about his LGBT plat- as senior advisor. HIV-drug study “Since Truvada is already available and is form.] used as a treatment for HIV infection, it is im- [Referring to the platform] There are other The research team of Project PrEPare—a perative that we educate our communities The only thing I want you to take out of here parts of this, but I want you to know that one of Chicago-based pre-exposure prophylaxis about the encouraging results of this study is that there is a constituency council that deals the other things is that we’re going to deal with (PrEP) trial being conducted through the Ado- but caution high-risk individuals about its with different communities. I’d put the gay and the bullying in schools. As you know, I wrote a lescent Trials Network for HIV/AIDS Interven- limitations,” said Margo Bell, M.D., co-principal lesbian liaison in the mayor’s office, because I piece for you guys, and you guys published it; I tions (ATN)—is encouraged by recent data investigator of Project PrEPare. “We don’t want think [the office] is such a central part of the appreciate that. demonstrating that antiretroviral drugs can people, especially our young people, getting fabric that makes up this city’s communities. WCT: You’ve been at a lot of different events: prevent HIV infection among men who have the idea that it’s as simple as taking a pill a day There’s diversity in staffing [in the platform]. Vital Bridges’ [annual holiday] brunch, [AIDS sex with men and transgendered persons, ac- to prevent HIV. It is just not that simple.” You judge me by what I’ve done ... and it’s not Foundation of Chicago’s] World of Chocolate, cording to a press release. Project PrEPare is designed to explore the because I was getting ready for an interview. etc. However, your opponents feel like you’re The Pre-exposure Prophylaxis Initiative, or acceptability and feasibility of a PrEP trial You have to understand that is also personal. shunning forums or debates? What is this iPrEX, was the first clinical trial of its kind. This among young MSM in Chicago. The study is My dear cousin died of AIDS. One of the things whole mishmash about? study showed that the antiretroviral drug Tru- primarily funded through the Eunice Ken- the doctor said kept him alive was wanting to RE: “Mishmash”—that’s a good Yiddish word. vada, when offered as a component of a com- nedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health prehensive prevention package that includes and Human Development, with additional condoms, counseling, and regular HIV/STI support from the National Institute on Drug “I love my HoneyBaked Ham” screening, was associated with a 44-percent Abuse (NIDA) and the National Institute of reduction in HIV infections in participants Mental Health (NIMH). who took it compared to those who took pla- “Moving forward, it will be critical that we cebo. Additionally, participants who took the get to some of the unanswered questions study drug more than 90 percent of the time around the use of PrEP among young MSM in saw infections reduce by almost 73 percent. the U.S. through studies like Project PrEPare,” “Considering the fact that men who have said Project Director Keith Green, MSW. “We sex with men continue to be disproportion- owe it to our study participants and the Chi- ately affected by the HIV epidemic here in cagoland YMSM community at large to pro- Chicago, we are extremely excited to have vide them with as much information as we data to support a new addition to the ‘tool- can about this new prevention technology, so box’ of HIV prevention interventions currently that they can make informed decisions about available to us,” said Sybil Hosek, Ph.D., co- their health and safety.” principal investigator of Project PrEPare. “We A community forum to discuss the iPrEX data must remember, however, that this is only the and its potential impact on the future direc- first step in determining whether or not PrEP tion of Project PrEPare will take place in the Visit our new Lakeview location at could become a part of a comprehensive HIV Michael Leppen Theater at the Center on Halst- prevention package in the real world.” 2815 N. Ashland Avenue (at Diversey) ed, 3656 N. Halsted, Wed., Dec. 15, 6:30-8:30 The iPrEx study followed 2,499 healthy, p.m. The discussion will be co-facilitated by “high-risk” gay men, transgender women and To place your holiday orders call: Jim Pickett, director of advocacy for the AIDS other men who have sex with men (MSM) Foundation of Chicago and chair of the Inter- (773) 880-8400 or - HoneyBakedOnline.com from 11 sites located in Peru, Ecuador, Brazil, national Rectal Microbicide Advocates South Africa, Thailand and the United States. For more information on Project PrEPare or Participants were randomly assigned to take to learn how to get involved, contact Keith either one tablet of Truvada (a combination Green at 773-864-8003 or visit http://www. of tenofovir and emtricitabine) or a placebo projectpreparechicago.org. once a day. Less than 10 percent of the study sample was from the United States, however,

WINDY CITY TIMES Dec. 15, 2010 11

Friday, Dec. 17 a 6-10 p.m. Late-r GAYin the Night CJ Garcia Andersonville LIFE Hairstylist Saturday, Dec. 18 Text and PHOTOS by Kirk Williamson 7:30 p.m. Sappho’s Solstice Salon benefiting Broadway Youth Center

5233 N. Clark (773) 769-9299

[email protected] www.womenandchildrenfirst.com CJ’s day begins with a fresh cup of coffee enjoyed out on the pier located along the Chicago River, Parking Available which flows right behind his apartment. This idyllic spot affords him a view of the passing trains, Wheelchair Accessible which he enjoys watching each morning. “It’s kind of my form of meditation; it helps me center myself and begin my day with a good attitude and a clear mind.”

After a short bus ride, CJ arrives at Robert Jeffrey Hair Studio in Wicker Park, where he has an appointment for a the stats quick trim and a blowout with one of his many regulars. As they catch up, they discuss her business meetings, up- Name coming events and, of course, men. “Usually just hers but CJ Garcia occasionally we’ll dive into mine,” admits CJ. Age 23 Occupation Have your Hairstylist Education premiums Studied hair at Cameo Beauty increased Academy in Oak Lawn Hobbies recently? Reading, playing music, dancing See me: and hanging out with friends Charles T. Rhodes, Fun fact Agent “I spontaneously burst into 2472 N. Clark song and dance.” A typical day for CJ may last well into the night. You may find CJ dancing up a storm at parties such 773.281.0890 State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company as Glitter at Le Passage. “It’s a great way to let loose after a long, busy day of work.” Photo from (not in NJ) the June, 2010 Glitter party. State Farm Indemnity Company (NJ) Home Offices: Bloomington, Illinois 12 Dec. 15, 2010 WINDY CITY TIMES VIEWPOINTs WINDY CITY After the announcement, I sat down with Ja- Part of the new leadership’s burden is that some TIMES mal Edwards, HBHC’s new CEO, to discuss the in the community want more answers about what VOL. 26 No. 11, Dec. 15, 2010 TRACY future of the clinic and its past. Edwards had went wrong before, and want accountability for The combined forces of Windy City Times, served a few weeks on the board earlier this those who were in charge. Edwards said his founded Sept. 1985, and Outlines newspaper, BAIM year before assuming the CEO post. The law firm own focus in on keeping the agency alive, and founded May 1987. he had worked for was HBHC’s legal representa- thriving into the future. However, government PUBLISHER & EXECUTIVE EDITOR tive, and Edwards had some familiarity with the inspectors are still investigating the past prob- Tracy Baim agency prior to stepping into one big hot mess. lems, and should provide at least some answers Edwards and his new executive team have no for the community. Knowing what happened in ASSISTANT PUBLISHER Terri Klinsky easy tasks in front of them. But as Windy City clearer terms will increase accountability and MANAGING EDITOR Andrew Davis Howard Brown: BUSINESS MANAGER Meghan Streit Times has said, their most important tasks in- vigilance and perhaps ensure that history does DIRECTOR OF NEW MEDIA Jean Albright clude not just fundraising to keep the agency not repeat itself. ART DIRECTOR Kirk Williamson Moving alive, but communicating their message in a I am impressed with what HBHC has done so SENIOR ACCOUNT MANAGERS: Terri Klinsky, Amy transparent and honest way. HBHC has been far to address the community’s concerns. It is an Matheny, Kirk Williamson, Dave Ouano PROMOTIONAL SUPPORT Cynthia Holmes forward plagued by a culture of secrecy that has served important legacy organization with more than NIGHTSPOTS MANAGING EDITOR Kirk Williamson no one, least of all its clients and donors. Ed- 200 staff, serving 36,000 clients a year. Having NATIONAL SALES Rivendell Media, 212-242-6863 A few weeks ago, in an editorial, Windy City wards has promised a new era of honesty not seen the agency react badly to past controver- SENIOR WRITERS Bob Roehr, Rex Wockner, Marie Times called for sweeping changes at How- just with the community, but also with his own sies, I have to say this time they are on the J. Kuda, David Byrne, Tony Peregrin, Lisa Keen, Yasmin Nair, Emmanuel Garcia ard Brown Health Center (HBHC), in order for staff. So far, that seems to be happening. right track. They are listening to their critics, the agency to more cleanly move forward and THEATER EDITOR Scott C. Morgan And this new approach also seems to be work- and they are especially listening to their staff CINEMA WRITER Richard Knight, Jr. move past the financial problems documented ing on a larger scale. The agency has achieved and clients. BOOKS WRITER Yasmin Nair in numerous news articles over the past several more than 80 percent of its goal of raising While things appear positive, there will be ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT WRITERS Mary Shen Barnidge, Jim Edminster, Steve Warren, months. $500,000 in 50 days. The lifeline appeal ends many difficult times ahead. If HBHC, Edwards HBHC had already ousted most of its staff Lawrence Ferber, Mel Ferrand, Catey Sullivan, Dec. 23 with a community celebration, and there and his team can continue to be transparent and Zachary Whittenburg, Jonathan Abarbanel leadership, but many of the board members who is no doubt they will meet, or come very close honest with the community, they will continue COLUMNISTS/WRITERS: Yvonne Zipter, Susie were in place during the problem years are still to meeting, this high target goal to keep the to deserve our support. If you are in a position Day, Jorjet Harper, Lee Lynch, Steve Starr, Lisa Keen, Charlsie Dewey, Michael Knipp, Mark Corece, serving. Last week, HBHC announced that by the agency alive. Along the way, they have picked to help them reach this initial fundraising goal, middle of 2011, all board members who were in Sabine Neidhardt, Sam Worley, Billy Masters, John up support from the grassroots, in mostly small please do so—for the sake of their clients, and Fenoglio, Chuck Colbert, Micki Leventhal, Sarah place prior to this year will be gone. donations, proving that the agency is still an our community. Toce, Rachel Pepper This is a huge step in the right direction for important part of the community. SENIOR PHOTOGRAPHERS Kat Fitzgerald, Mel this important Chicago LGBT agency. Ferrand, Hal Baim, Steve Starr, Emmanuel Garcia, Dave Ouano CIRCULATION Default protections upon incapacity of one —Notice: The law will require that an heir re- CIRCULATION DIRECTOR Jean Albright partner ceive notice (1) if someone opens an estate to DISTRIBUTION: Ashina, Allan, Dan, John, Renee, RAY J. —Health decisions: While competent, we collect and distribute his or her deceased part- Sue and Victor make our own healthcare decisions. However, if ner’s assets; and (2) if someone contests his or KOENIG, III we become incapable of making such decisions, her deceased partner’s will. someone else needs to be designated as health- —Spousal award: When one partner passes Copyright 2010 Lambda Publications Inc./Windy City Media care decision-maker. An individual can execute a away, the surviving partner will be entitled to Group; All rights reserved. Reprint by permission only. Back issues (if available) for $5 per issue (postage included). power of attorney for healthcare and nominate a “spousal award,” in the amount of at least Return postage must accompany all manuscripts, drawings, the person he or she wants to serve as his or $20,000, which must be distributed to him or and photographs submitted if they are to be returned, and no responsibility may be assumed for unsolicited materials. her agent. If an individual does not execute a her before any other distributions are made from All rights to letters, art and photographs sent to Windy power of attorney for healthcare and is incapa- the estate. This is to ensure the surviving part- City Times will be treated as unconditionally assigned for publication purposes and as such, subject to editing mackenzie ble of making health decisions, Illinois law has ner has adequate funds during the course of es- and comment. The opinions expressed by the columnists, long provided a priority list of default decision- tate administration. cartoonists, letter writers, and commentators are their own a. hyde and do not necessarily reflect the position ofWindy City makers. A spouse is at the top of this list, and —If a partner did not execute a will (in- Times. Publication of the name, photograph, or likeness of now, thanks to the civil-union act, the term heritance): An individual who enters into a civil a person or organization in articles or advertising in Windy City Times is not to be construed as any indication of the spouse will include individuals who enter into union will have the right to receive a share of sexual orientation of such person or organization. While civil unions. This means that hospitals must look his or her partner’s estate even if he or she did we encourage readers to support the advertisers who make to a civil union partner as healthcare decision- not execute a will. If the deceased partner did this newspaper possible, Windy City Times cannot accept responsibility for advertising claims. Couples planning maker before anyone else, such as your parents not have any children, the surviving partner will (773) 871-7610 FAX (773) 871-7609 and the new or siblings. Before the act, partners fell under receive his or her entire estate. If the deceased e-mail: [email protected] the “close friend of the patient” category, which partner had a child, the surviving partner will re- civil-union act is almost last in line. This virtually ensured that ceive one-half of his or her estate and the other www.WindyCityMediaGroup.com an incapable individual’s partner would not be half will be divided between children. Before the radio: WindyCityQueercast.com The Religious Freedom and Civil Union Act is his or her healthcare decision-maker. civil-union act, the only way a surviving partner video: QueerTVNetwork.com a critical step toward equality in Illinois. The —Guardianship: Guardianship is the court was entitled to a share of a deceased partner’s WINDY CITY MEDIA GROUP, ramifications for same-sex couples cannot be procedure through which an alleged disabled estate was if he or she executed a will or trust. 5315 N. Clark St. #192, Chicago, IL 60640 USA understated, especially in the areas of health- person is found to be incapable of making per- —If a partner did not execute a will (ad- (MAILING ADDRESS ONLY) care, disability, and death. After the governor sonal or financial decisions for himself or herself ministration): An individual who enters into a Windy City Times Deadline every Wednesday. signs the bill and the law is enacted next sum- and a guardian is appointed to make those deci- civil union will have priority to administer his or Nightspots Deadline Wednesday prior to street date. mer, the state of Illinois will offer the opportu- sions on the disabled person’s behalf. If a same- her partner’s estate. If the surviving partner de- Identity (BLACKlines and En La Vida): Now nity for legal recognition to same-sex couples to sex couple enters into a civil union, the law will cides not to administer the estate, he or she may online only the same extent as heterosexual couples enter- require a petitioner to give notice of the guard- choose an individual to serve as Administrator. Deadline The 10th of month prior. OUT! Resource Guide ONLINE ing into marriage. ianship petition to the alleged disabled person’s Before the civil-union act, the surviving partner www.WindyCityMediaGroup.com Under the act, a civil union “means, and partner. Prior to the civil-union act, partners had no say in the matter. shall be included in, any definition or use of were not entitled to notice of this proceeding. —If a partner dies with a will (spousal the terms ‘spouse’, ‘family’, ‘immediate family’, —Statutory custodial claim: An individual award): An individual who enters into a civil www.WindyCityMediaGroup.com www.WindyCityQueercast.com ‘dependent’, ‘next of kin’ and other terms that who enters into a civil union and subsequently union will be allowed to renounce the benefits www.QueerTVNetwork.com he or she receives under his or her partner’s denote the spousal relationship, as those terms takes personal care of his or her partner for at are used throughout the law.” This single sen- least three years due to the partner’s disability, will and accept a “statutory share” of his or her “Windy City Media Group generated tence will allow civilly united same-sex couples will be entitled to a “statutory custodial claim” estate. The public policy behind this law is to enormous interest among their readers to enjoy hundreds of default rights under Illinois of a minimum of $45,000. This claim is filed ensure that the decedent’s surviving spouse, or in this year’s LGBT Consumer Index law, which married couples currently enjoy. The against the disabled partner’s estate after his or in this case, the surviving partner, is not com- Survey. Out of approximately 100 current lack of default rights relating to health- her death. The purpose of this statute is to rec- pletely disinherited by the decedent. Before the print and online media partners who care, disability, and death have had particularly ognize the sacrifices individuals make to care for civil-union act, a partner could disinherit his participated in the survey, Windy tragic consequences for same-sex couples. Ex- disabled family members. Before the civil-union or her partner, and the surviving partner would City was the best performing regional amples include a partner not being able to make act, same-sex partners were not eligible to even have no recourse. media in the U.S. Only survey partners health decisions for his or her dying partner, and file this claim. —If a partner dies with a will (will con- with a nationwide footprint were a partner being stripped of his or her deceased test): An individual who enters into a civil able to generate a greater number of partner’s personal property because of the fail- Default protections upon death of one part- union may contest his or her deceased partner’s responses.” —David Marshall, Research ure to execute a will. With the passage of the ner will because he or she is considered an heir-at- Director, Community Marketing, Inc. civil-union act, however, the gay community can —Heirship: An individual who enters into a law. Before the civil-union act, partners had no breathe a sigh of relief. civil union will be considered his or her partner’s automatic right to contest his or her partner’s Below is an outline of many of the important heir at law upon the death of his or her partner. will. provisions regarding healthcare, disability, and As an heir, the law will afford a partner numer- While the passage of the Religious Freedom death that will apply to couples entering into a ous protections, some of which are discussed Turn to page 23 civil union: below. WINDY CITY TIMES Dec. 15, 2010 13 GOINGS-ON WINDY CITY TIMES’ ENTERTAINMENT SECTION

Photo by Michael Brosilow HAT’S ALL, FOLKS Travels with My Aunt (above) is reviewed on page 14. THEATER TRAVEL SPORTS ‘Wicked’ good. Philly-nilly. The puck stops here. Page 15. Page 20. Page 23.

Photo by Joan Marcus Photo by Kate Sosin Photo from Angela James

SCOTTISH lier at Circle Theatre in Forest Park), her subse- PLAY SCOTT quent works were quickly snapped up by the flagship Goodman Theatre. Starting with the college racism drama Spin- Appointments ning Into Butter in 1999, Gilman’s work has as long been represented at the Goodman The- plenty atre. Gilman’s Boy Gets Girls (2000), Blue Surge BY SCOTT C. MORGAN (2001), Dollhouse (2005) and A True History of the Johnstown Flood (2009) each had their When the Lyric Opera of Chicago sent out invi- world premieres at the Goodman. The Good- tations to a special news conference featuring man also produced the Chicago premiere of Renée Fleming last week, there was plenty of Gilman’s The Crowd You’re In With in 2009. speculation as to whether the Grammy Award- “I am so fortunate for the relationship I have winning superstar American soprano was go- with the Goodman,” said Gilman in a prepared ing to be named the company’s next general statement. “The support and resources that this director. (After all, the current general director, theater offers are unparalleled to anything else William Mason, is set to retire at the end of the I have experienced in my career.” 2011-12 season.) Gilman joins the current Goodman Collective And for opera historical buffs, the notion that Left: Renée Fleming. Right: (from left) Sir Andrew Davis, Renée Fleming and William Mason. Left of actor Brian Dennehy, director/actor Henry a soprano might take over a Chicago company photo courtesy of DECCA/Andrew Eccles, right photo by Dan Rest Godinez, director Steve Scott; director Chuck inevitably brought to mind the late Scottish Smith, playwright/director/actor Regina Tay- soprano Mary Garden (who notoriously bank- lor and director/playwright Mary Zimmerman. rupted one Chicago opera company in the in the 2015-16 season, plus a new Lyric com- soprano Beverly Sills notably took up adminis- After 24 years, original Collective member and 1920s). mitment to American musical theater when it trative roles with the New York City Opera and out director/actor Frank Galati has rotated off as Instead, Fleming was named the Lyric’s first produces Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Oklahoma! the Metropolitan Opera after retiring from her artistic associate. Galati, now retired to Florida, creative consultant and a co-vice president of as an off-season 70th anniversary production in singing career. remains an official member of the Steppenwolf the Lyric Opera of Chicago board of directors 2013. At age 51, Fleming still has many years of Theatre Ensemble. alongside conductor Sir Andrew Davis (who is Currently booked through 2016 with singing performing ahead of her. Yet getting her opera currently celebrating his 10th anniversary as engagements, Fleming said she will find time administration feet wet with the Lyric certainly Extensions aplenty the Lyric’s music director). At the news confer- to fit in her new Lyric duties of outreach and seems like a logical step as one of America’s It’s always great news to hear when a theater ence, Mason pointed out that the board of di- creative input on top of her international opera most famous opera ambassadors. company has a hit on its hands. So if you’ve rectors is still searching for a new general direc- career. been trying to snag a ticket to these shows, note tor. Luckily for Lyric audiences, Fleming disclosed Gilman at Goodman these extension dates: Fleming’s duties in her five-year creative con- that she is set to return to Lyric as a performer. Goodman Theatre Artistic Director Robert Falls The Artistic Home’s superlative production sultant position have largely to do with playing On the slate is a subscriber-appreciation con- recently named his longtime artistic collabora- of Tennessee Williams’ Sweet Bird of Youth has an active leadership role in creating new proj- cert with Russian baritone Dmitri Hvorostovsky tor, Rebecca Gilman, to Goodman Theatre’s Ar- been extended to Jan. 16, 2011. ects and initiatives designed to increase opera to honor general director William Mason on Jan. tistic Collective. Lookingglass Theatre’s popular world-pre- audiences and awareness of the art form. Some 7, 2012, plus staged concert performances as “It’s been an enormous pleasure to collabo- miere adaptation of Peter Pan (A Play) has been of the projects announced at the news confer- Blanche DuBois in André Previn’s A Streetcar rate with her on a remarkable range of styles pushed forward to Jan. 23. ence included plans to foster collaborations Named Desire in spring 2013 and the role of the and subject matter, all of which keep her at the Black Ensemble Theater’s gay-inclusive musi- with other Chicago-based arts institutions and Countess in a new production of Richard Strauss’ forefront of American playwriting,” said Falls in cal The Other Cinderella will still go to the ball expanding the educational activities of the Capriccio in fall 2014. a prepared statement. until Jan. 23, 2011. Lyric to include a joint program with the Merit Fleming’s undisclosed salary was made pos- Once Chicago playwright Rebecca Gilman Please send theater news and other related School of Music. sible by several members of the Lyric’s board of made a major splash in the theater world with tidbits to [email protected] and Lyric audiences will get to see Fleming’s work directors. Fleming’s decision to take up the posi- her 2002 Pulitzer Prize finalist drama The Glory [email protected]. at curating a world-premiere opera set to debut tion is not uncommon for opera singers. The late of Living (originally debuted several years ear- 14 Dec. 15, 2010 WINDY CITY TIMES OPERA REVIEW The Mikado CRITICS’ PICKS Playwright: Gilbert & Sullivan At: Lyric Opera of Chicago, 20 N. Wacker Float, About Face Theatre at Theater Tickets: 312-332-2244, ext. 5600; Wit, through Dec. 18. Patricia Kane’s comic http://www.lyricopera.org; $48-$237 drama about secrets that get revealed in a Runs through: Jan. 21 (in repertory) small fictional Illinois town features a great acting ensemble who construct (and decon- struct) a Christmas parade float right before BY JONATHAN ABARBANEL your eyes. SCM The Importance of Being Earnest, Remy I’m not a Gilbert & Sullivan purist. I’ve enjoyed Bumppo, through Jan. 9. Non-campy and many G&S updates, among them the Hot Mikado low key, this is an self-assured production and the Stratford Festival’s delightful stagings, women’s chorus to the vast Act II backdrop with of Wilde’s witty play, which both honors but the new Lyric Opera production of The Mi- its subtle silk floral pattern—but his color range and sends up 19th-century society and the kado ain’t my cup o’ tea. It’s too pale a produc- is narrow, with much simple black and white. 19th-century well-made play. Great cos- tion by half. The exception is Nanki-Poo’s harlequinesque tumes, too. JA The musical values are there; go and enjoy. trousers (and Toby Spence’s hair). As for “vase The Music Man, Marriott Theatre, through This is Lyric Opera, after all, and world-class and jar and screen and fan,” forget about it: this Jan. 9. Director Gary Griffin whips up a hy- musicianship onstage and in the orchestra pit is heavily Europeanized, military-rising Japan. per-professional production that celebrates is to be assumed and praised. The orchestra’s The Mikado and his retinue are costumed direct- Meredith Willson’s classic 1957 musical woodwind choir—always important in a Sullivan ly from period military photos. Was I the only about a flimflam man who unwittingly uses score—was particularly lovely. The voices— one disconcerted by this and by the fascist-deco the arts to enrich an entire community. when singing—were perfection. Who wouldn’t train station set in Act I? SCM be charmed by Toby Spence’s lyric tenor as Director Gary Griffin approved these choices The Other Cinderella, Black Ensemble Nanki-Poo? Or Stephanie Blythe having a ball and I wish I knew why. He also decided not to Theater, extended through Jan. 23. A Carib- as Katisha? Or James Morris tossing off the title use a choreographer, so there’s no dance ele- bean-accented fairy god-mama makes the role? ment in the show, and it’s missed. Essentially, wishes come true in this anniversary pro- The problems begin when the voices are not Griffin has staged an elaborate concert version duction of the musical that launched the singing. After seeing G&S for 40 years in many of The Mikado. Where’s Lyric Opera’s corps de company moving into its own brand-new different theaters, I’ve concluded that G&S is far ballet? And where are the missing props? Koko’s playhouse next year. MSB too dialogue-driven for a vast opera house. Even snickersnee (sword) is replaced by Nanki-Poo’s with amplification, it just doesn’t work. The little dagger and a sorry substitute it is. And —By Abarbanel, Barnidge slow, deliberate articulation of this production Nanki-Poo’s “ballads cut and tied” are nowhere and Morgan really “takes the top off” much of the humor and to be seen. The text speaks of many things that The Mikado. Photos by Dan Rest sense of spontaneity. This isn’t singular to this aren’t there. production, but a general position I’ve reached. The Mikado needs a musical-comedy treatment You are welcome to disagree. it doesn’t get. Even meticulous musical director Some issues, however, are specific to this stag- Sir Andrew Davis provides a rare miscue in his ing. Scenic and costume designer Mark Thomp- dreary tempo for “The Flowers that Bloom in the son has drained the color from the show. Set it THEATER REVIEW Spring.” You’d never know that it can stop the in 1920s Japan? Ok. But why is it pallid pastel show. Travels with 1920s Japan? Thompson’s work is rich in pattern—from the schoolgirl uniforms of the first My Aunt Playwright: adapted by Giles Havergal from the novel by Graham Greene At: Writers’ Theatre at Books on Vernon, 664 Vernon Ave. in Glencoe Travels With My Aunt Phone: 847-242-6000; $45-$60 Runs through: March 27, 2011 BY GRAHAM GREENE ADAPTED FOR THE STAGE BY GILES HAVERGAL BY MARY SHEN BARNIDGE DIRECTED BY ASSOCIATE ARTISTIC DIRECTOR STUART CARDEN Now Playing at 664 Vernon Avenue, Glencoe Audiences at the Writers’ Theatre production of Travels With My Aunt are going to have to make a choice: On one dramatic level, there is Graham Greene’s 1969 screwball thriller— “SOPHISTICATED AND WRY… its motifs sometimes vaguely racist or sexist to our sensibilities, but in 2010, neverthe- LIGHT AND FANCIFUL.” less retro enough to emerge as nostalgically – CHICAGO TRIBUNE charming. On another, there is Giles Havergal’s 1989 page-to-stage adaptation, which scores the text for four male voices, transforming the narrative to a prototypal stunt-show along the lines of Shakespeare (Unabridged). And just ++++ to further split our attention, there’s also the Travels with My Aunt. Photo by Michael Bro- “ ” clever live-action sound effects executed stag- silow eside by whomever is unoccupied elsewhere. “DAZZLING” The aforementioned narrative recounts the – TIME OUT CHICAGO progress of one Henry Pulling, a stodgy, mid- scenes, while the African American LaShawn dle-aged banker who discovers upon the death Banks’ chief role is that of her devoted valet- of his likewise stodgy mum, that he has an with-benefits, with Jeremy Sher completing aunt—next to fairy godmothers, fiction writ- the quartet as noisemaker and utility man. ers’ favorite agitators—whose checkered past The confined quarters in Writers’ Theatre’s and equally checkered present soon has her suburban storefront that reduces Brian Sid- “VIVID, SUPREMELY WELL-ACTED… bewildered nephew participating in a variety ney Bembridge’s set dressing to a collec- DELIGHTFUL.” of complicated intrigues taking them to exotic tion of suitcases and incidental props makes for smooth and swift transitions under the “HIGHLY RECOMMENDED” regions. In addition to an array of shady characters and skeptical law enforcement officers, choreographic direction of company new- – CHICAGO SUN-TIMES he encounters several young women enjoy- comer Stuart Carden for the cozy two hours ing their OWN adventures, in which he, as a of their running time. The four players, care- stranger and a foreigner, suddenly finds himself fully drilled by dialect consultant Eva Brene- figuring. man, ascertain that our re-orientation time as SELLING OUT FAST—ORDER TODAY! we zip from locale to locale and persona to Corporate The roster of personalities—25 in all—are Production divided among the four actors with no regard persona is minimal and effortless. There’s still WRITERSTHEATRE.ORG Sponsor to fixed roles. True, the WASP-faced John Hoo- the problem of the constantly-shifting focus, genakker appears most often as the assorted however—but since the show is scheduled WRITERS’ cops and spooks, the Latinesque Sean Fortu- to play until March, why not see it more than 847-242-6000 THEATRE nato claims the lion’s share of Aunt Augusta’s once and thus, get the whole experience? WINDY CITY TIMES Dec. 15, 2010 15 THEATER REVIEW (Steve Hickson) visit the poor and overpopu- lated Cratchit family a bit ahead of schedule and Mrs. Bob the normally silent Mrs. Cratchit (Tina Haglund) decides she’s had enough of being poor and Cratchit’s ... Binge determines to get drunk and jump off London By Christopher Durang bridge. At: A Reasonable Facsimile Theatre Co. All three aforementioned characters are the (at The Cornservatory, 4210 N. Lincoln) centerpieces of the play, but more often than Phone: 773-418-4475 ; $12-15 not, they struggle with the material as would Runs through: Jan. 2, 2011 most who aren’t well-practiced in irreverent humor. Scrooge’s “Bah hum-bug!” Tourette’s out- BY STEVEN CHAITMAN bursts among other gags that run throughout the show fall flat and simple physical comedy, In the world of entertainment, Christmas is more such as the Ghost repeatedly shocking Scrooge like “the most predictable time of the year.” with a magical Taser, fail every time. Garcia, as Around the holidays, audiences demand pag- successfully as she charms the audience with eantry, tradition and comfort, and so produc- her eccentric mannerisms, struggles with tran- tions such as Goodman Theatre’s 30-plus-years sitioning between her role as narrator and co- run of “A Christmas Carol” have become local median. Mrs. Cratchit is written to be “above” mainstays. the play that Haglund has trouble making her But rather than submit to the sweaters and belong. Durang forces in the humor so exces- fruitcakes—or completely ignore the clamor sively at times that these actors can hardly keep for holiday cheer—many theatre companies up, and between them and director Michael grasp for alternative December programming. Buino, they struggle to cope. This year, A Reasonable Facsimile Theatre Com- Several supporting cast members, however, pany is the first in Chicago to try on “Mrs. Bob find success, usually by doing a better job of Cratchit’s Wild Christmas Binge” from noted creating full characters while also subtly con- parody and absurdist playwright Christopher Jackie Burns (left) and Chandra Lee Schwartz in Wicked. Photo by Joan Marcus veying an awareness of being in a play that’s Durang. not to be taken too seriously. The naïve but The show is an over-the-top spoof of Dick- self-centered Tiny Tim squeezes laughs out of ens’ “A Christmas Carol” and “It’s a Wonderful THEATER REVIEW overprivileged adversaries, who find their moral repeated exclamations of “God bless us, every Life”—a complete toppling of the traditional consciousness raised to a level inspiring them one!” and Bob Cratchit plays sharply off other holiday canon. One can understand the allure Wicked to unforeseen philanthropy and compassion. In characters’ absurdities. Playwright: music and lyrics by of such a play to a smaller company such as this fantasyland, the villains are not the rich Durang’s spin on this material is not all for the Stephen Schwartz, book by Winnie A Reasonable Facsimile, but a Durang work is or comely, but the seductive lure of celebrity sake of being humorous, but that’s mostly how Holzman, based on the novel never as simple as a goofy, offbeat alternative. and the corrupting artifice required to main- it comes off in this production. He intends to by Gregory Maguire His humor, though seemingly just a barrage of tain it. Even its Wizard, previously presented as highlight that the miserable and difficult lives At: Broadway in Chicago at the outrageous gags and amusing side comments, a Hitler-esque despot (complete with servants of the characters in these classic stories can- Cadillac Palace, 151 W. Randolph is calculated, and it takes an entire ensemble of garbed as concentration-camp inmates—a motif not, realistically speaking, be mended by an gifted professional comics. And despite their Phone: 800-775-2000; $35-$105 fortunately missing in this touring production), epiphany about Christmas spirit. A Reasonable charisma, A Reasonable Facsimile’s cast doesn’t Runs through: Jan. 23, 2011 is now merely another flawed human dazzled by Facsimile’s production, however, comes across have enough of them. popular adulation. as simply a whacky take on Christmas favorites. These Christmas classics as we know them go BY MARY SHEN BARNIDGE Repeat viewers will find most of the lyrics So while the company unlocks the goofiness of awry when the Ghost of Christmas Past, Present more intelligible than in the show’s recent in- “Binge,” the humor is not as deep and resonant and Future (Samantha Garcia) and Mr. Scrooge The appeal of Stephen Schwartz’s songs is the carnation at the Ford Oriental, an improvement as it could be. intensely personal way they express the passion, owing less to the wider, shallower stage at the exuberance and uncertainty of young people Cadillac Palace than to the soloists’ propen- caught at a crisis of identity. Too much specta- sity for delivering key lines straight downstage cle swamps sensitive introspection with a flood into our faces—or as close to it as can be ac- of communal ecstasy. (Try to imagine a stadium- complished in a 2,500-seat auditorium. Jackie sized Godspell, or Pippin.) But patrons of New Burns and Chandra Lee Schwartz make a nicely THE PERFECT MUSICAL FOR York’s Broadway empire demand big bangs for contrasting belter and chirpier duo (though their big bucks, and so—for the next few years, the latter’s bubbliness sometimes overwhelms anyway—this intimate little fable is doomed to her enunciation). And in a score with not a EVERYONE WHO HAS EVER be eclipsed by Wagnerian robot dragons, flying single tenor-baritone duet, Richard H. Blake’s chariots and elevator-traps on stages whose Fiyero, Paul Slade Smith’s Dr. Dillamond and sheer expanse swells the show’s running time by Gene Weygandt’s Wizard pull their weight with WORKED A DAY IN THEIR LIVES. a good 30 minutes. cheerful alacrity. Traditional fairy tales typically recount the for- The Marriott or Drury Lane—let alone Theo tunes of a humble girl or boy who makes good Ubique—Wicked is still a long ways off. But the (however their society defines that term). But hippodrome version—the only one we have while the progress of the green-complected at this time—still defies gravity to proclaim Elphaba from lonely waif to triumphant rebel its universally elevating message to audiences adheres to the reliable formula, Winnie Holz- throughout the world. man’s book also proffers hope for our heroine’s

SPOTLIGHT NEWLY ADAPTED BY STEPHEN SCHWARTZ (Composer of WICKED) and NINA FASO Chicago’s oldest LGBT sketch comedy troupe is Gay- Co, but only now it’s unveiling its second-ever holiday A genuinely funny and touching Broadway musical featuring revue Scream if You Love Christmas. GayCo promises to show what it’s like to be Dickensian on the down Chicago stars E. Faye Butler, Barbara Robertson and Gene Weygandt. low and to expose the secrets behind the white-elephant circle of re-gifting. GayCo’s Scream if You Love Christmas plays 8 p.m. Thursdays through Thursday, This is a WORKING man’s A CHORUS LINE. Dec. 30, at the Annoyance Theatre, 4830 N. Broadway. Tickets are $15. Call 773-561-4665 or visit http:// www.gayco.com. Photo courtesy of the company NOW ON SALE BEGINS FEB. 15–MAY 8 800.775.2000 16 Dec. 15, 2010 WINDY CITY TIMES they asked I wasn’t available. Something happened and my agent said they would have to pull me out of a show but in the meantime I should audition for Working. It turned out that I was able to do both shows. The Fifth WCT: And now you have Wicked, too. The Sun. show has such a following; is that intimidat- ing? BR: No, it’s not for me. They have been so fabulous. They really let me do my own performance. WCT: So you don’t have to copy past ver- sions, such as Rue McClanahan’s. BR: Nope. In fact, at one point we were joking and they were giving me notes. They told me NUNN ON ONE: THEATER that I don’t have to hold my hands up like this and I thought I had to do that. They were really wonderful. I do the correct blocking and, of Barbara course, the lines. It is really important to watch 1980, while saying Mass, Oscar Romero, the the twinkle in the other person’s eyes, to keep it Patricca’s Archbishop of San Salvador, was assassinated. Robertson alive and keep it fun. [The Fifth Sun] presents the story of the people WCT: This is a short run, correct? The Fifth Sun and the forces that transformed an ordinary man gets ‘Wicked’ BR: Yes, I am just dropping in for the Chicago into a courageous leader. The Fifth Sun com- BY JERRY NUNN portion. out on CD bines elements of ancient tomb rituals, Mayan WCT: You are not going anywhere else? By Tracy Baim temple dramas and medieval morality plays into Barbara Robertson returns to Wicked as Madame BR: No, because I go right into rehearsals for a contemporary dramatic structure in which we Morrible this holiday season. With a bustling Working in January and performing it in Febru- Reviewing a play through just its audio compo- see a human being ultimately embody the moral Chicago theatre agenda, Nunn on One caught up ary. nents presents a challenge. Fortunately, Chicago voice and vision of his people.” for a quick chat about her busy dramatic life. WCT: How long is the run for Working? gay playwright Nicholas A. Patricca’s The Fifth The CD also has a musical score by The San Windy City Times: Hello, Barbara. I want to BR: It’s an open run. Sun works very well in just an audio format. Antonio Vocal Arts Ensemble and Xavier Quijas hear about how you started in theater. Did WCT: Do you have plans for after that? Now available on CD presented by Actors Scene Yxayotl. Recorded, mixed, and mastered in Char- you study it in school? BR: I do. I have to leave Working a little bit Unseen, The Fifth Sun is directed by Elizabeth lotte, NC, it stars David G. Holland, Meg Sohmer Barbara Robertson: I went to the University early to do The Detective’s Wife up at The Writ- Peterson-Vita and engineered by James Vita. Wood, John Xenakis, Brett Mason, Dael Waxman, of Illinois. I did one play in high school. It was This is a political play that tells the story of El Sendy Mendez, Becky Brock, Zendyn Duellman, Oklahoma. Someone just asked me to come be a Salvador and its fight to remain free of control Roy E. Mills, Jr., and Laura Palka. square dancer. I was in band. I wasn’t in choir. from outside forces. It centers on the moral and Patricca is professor emeritus in the The- No one ever taught me music so to sing the fi- ethical conflicts facing Catholic clergy who were atre Program of the Department of Fine and nale I just sang with whomever I was next to. born there as well as nuns who traveled there Performing Arts at Loyola University Chicago; I was singing all the parts [sings Oklahoma in from the United States. Boiling this 12-year civil playwright in residence at Victory Gardens The- male and female voice]. war down into one play is impossible, but The ater, Chicago; and an ensemble member of the WCT: Oh, my gosh. Fifth Sun does an excellent job at capturing the TOSOS Theatre Collective, New York City. BR: That was fun. So yes I studied theater at U tumult of the early 1980s in this Central Ameri- The CD is available on CD Baby and Amazon. of I until I decided that was what I really want- can country. See www.TheFifthSunCD.com. ed to do, so I came to Chicago to start working As the play’s descripton notes: “On March 24, right away. WCT: What other theater companies did you work for? BR: I did the Goodman, Steppenwolf, Chicago Shakespeare and the Court Theatre; also, North- Artemis marks 30 years light and Victory Gardens. WCT: You have been everywhere. What a good run you have had! BR: Yeah, I have done most of Chicago. Then I went out to do the Kennedy Center three times and one national tour of Angels in America. WCT: You did? BR: I got to travel the country. It was the most Barbara Robertson. incredible play. I got to take my kids with me. When one of them left to go back home, I realized that they were fine without me but I wasn’t fine without them. So I decided to stay in my hometown. ers’ Theatre. It’s a new Keith Huff play. He sent WCT: You are still working so that is great. me the script about two years ago. Then I come Is there a show that you wanted to do but back to Working. So I am just gone from Working haven’t? for a little while. BR: Oh, sure—but I focus on what I get to WCT: You are “Working” it in Chicago! do. Journey back to Oz and grab this hot ticket WCT: How did you get involved with Work- at the Cadillac Palace Theatre, 151 W. Ran- ing [a musical based on the Studs Terkel work dolph; the show runs through Jan. 23. 2011. that will begin previews Feb. 15, 2011, at the Visit http://www.broadwayinchicago.com for Broadway Playhouse at Water Tower Place]? details. Detective’s Wife information can be BR: I auditioned. It was odd actually because found at http://www.writerstheatre.org. I had a conflict and so the first couple of times ‘Kiss Kiss Cabaret’ opens Feb. 4 The Kiss Kiss Cabaret, a Chicago-based neo- vaudeville, burlesque cabaret, has announced its debut at the Greenhouse Theater Center, 2257 N. Lincoln, for an open run of weekly performances. The open run starts Friday, Feb. 4, 2011. The Artemis Singers, Chicago’s lesbian feminist chorus, marked its 30th anniversary with a Kiss Kiss Cabaret Coquettes include members concert Dec. 4, at the Skokie Theatre. such as Siren Jinx, Jolie Roberson, Miss Kiss The “Artemis Singers Turns 30!” concert was a retrospective performance of songs from Kiss and Naughty Natanya. Sister Singers Network festivals, especially the 2010 “Our Kind of Sound” festival hosted by Tickets are $15. See http://www.KissKiss- Artemis at Loyola University this summer Featured works Dec. 4 included “Rosa Sat”; “Fish- Cabaret.com. ing,” a barbershop song commissioned in memory of Michaeline Chvatal; “Sweet Sorcery”; “My Salsa Garden”; and “What About Love?” Photos by Mel Ferrand WINDY CITY TIMES Dec. 15, 2010 17 BOOK REVIEW use captions. Another set of eyes would help add perspec- Old Dyke tive and nuance, drawing out details from the by Jinx Beers author. Most chapters are just two or three Chorus gets ‘Unplugged’ $19.95; iUniverse; 242 pages pages, and some deserve far more information. REVIEW BY TRACY BAIM There are also moments of bitterness that take away from the story and are too one-sided to Memoirs of an Old Dyke, by Jinx Beers, is a feel appropriate, even in an autobiography. At frustrating autobiography on several fronts. I times this seems like a revenge book, but that certainly am glad to hear first-person thoughts can never hold the reader’s attention for long. about the road taken by one longtime dyke And there is a really outrageous and uncorrobo- activist. However, I wish she had a good edi- rated suggestion in a short section about AIDS tor for spelling, grammar and content. [Even that lesbians were champing at the bit waiting the word “newspaper” is spelled wrong on the to take over groups after gay men died, as op- back cover.] There are kernels of interesting sto- posed to the reality that lesbians were part of ries here, but they need some editing shine to the AIDS movement—as caretakers, fundrais- make them pearls. ers and activists. Beers was born in 1933 in Southern Califor- I encourage Beers to take another stab at this nia. She had a difficult childhood and used a book, maybe bringing in other voices—and a four-year stint in the Air Force to get away from strong editor—to add more of substance to the her past. She was stationed in Germany in the interesting stories, fix the errors and take out years after World War II, and we learn about her the bitter and sometimes self-effacing tone. coming out and escapades in the military. These things are not needed, and take away Beers used the G.I. Bill to attend college at from the fact that this is a feminist dyke who UCLA, and then worked at UCLA’s Institute of did make important contributions to the LGBT Transportation and Traffic Engineering for 18 movement. years. In a Forrest Gump-like way, Beers was in the right place at the right time, but unlike the fictional Gump, Beers also helped control her destiny by actually founding and participating in groups and businesses. She founded The Lesbian News, a publication still in place today (though she sold it after 14 years as publisher and editor). She also helped teach a lesbian class at UCLA, was involved with the National Organization for Women Lesbian Rights Task Force, and other area groups. Beers was called a “Feminist Who Changed America” for her work in founding Lesbian The Chicago Gay Men’s Chorus held its holiday concert “Christmas Follies: Unplugged” over News. She deserved the title, but she also de- the weekend at the Athenaeum Theatre in Chicago and the Mayslake Peabody Estate in Oak Brook. “Unplugged” marked a first, as the members sang without any sound amplification serves having someone else look at her story or microphones. Photos by Kat Fitzgerald (MysticImagesPhotography.com); more online at and craft a better tribute to her efforts. http://www.WindyCityMediaGroup.com As I said, there are some interesting stories Beers tells, especially to place her life in a historical context. One interesting story is about the sit-in against homophobic talk-show host Mort Sahl. But the writing is crowded out by too many exclamation points, spelling errors FEATURING 12 and, sometimes, a lack of context. It’s like you NEW SONGS almost get to the interesting points, and stop just short. Also, the few photos included could FROM GRAMMY WINNER DOLLY PARTON! BOOK REVIEW Tomahawk’d by Diane S. Bauden “HILARIOUS!” $16.95; Intaglio; 227 pages –The New York Post REVIEW BY TRACY BAIM

Tomahawk’d is not a new book, but it’s one I recently came upon because Diane’s real name is Diane Stuercke, and she’s the editor of our Photos by Joan M arcus Windy City Queercast online radio program. I knew Diane wrote lesbian fiction, and was interested in finding out more. WHAT A WAY TO MAKE A LIVIN’! Tomahawk’d is a wonderfully sweet tale of two young girls who meet during summer va- 4 Tony Award and 15 Drama Desk nominations including BEST MUSICAL cation and fall slowly in love over time. Jackson lives at the resort with her lesbian aunt, while LEGALLY BLONDE’S AMERICAN IDOL’S 3 TIME TONY AWARD NOMINEE MAMIE PARRIS IS DIANA DeGARMO IS DEE HOTY IS Erin comes with her family to the Wisconsin resort every summer. THE NEW GIRL THE BOMBSHELL THE PRO Through letters and annual visits, we watch their attraction grow, but it remains unnamed uncomfortably long for them both. Erin becomes a professional artist and marries a man. Jackson is a musician drifting from woman to woman, never quite finding the right one. While Erin may not realize what is behind her friendship with Jackson, her homophobic mom certainly sees what’s going on, even when Erin is young. As Erin becomes an adult, her mother’s hatred only increases, and causes a rift with her Tomahawk’d is an easy read, with lots of passion father, who seems genuinely loving and support- and fun, and it feels like a modern campfire re- ive of whatever path his daughter follows. Erin telling of the lesbian classic Patience and Sarah. JANUARY 18–30 and Jackson come back together as adults, after I’d definitely recommended it for fans of lesbian 800.775.2000s many years apart, due to a health-related crisis. fiction. Tickets available at all Broadway In Chicago Box Offices Can they mend their wounded hearts? >`Ê/ViÌ>ÃÌiÀÊÀiÌ>ÊV>ÌÃÊUÊGroups 15+: 312-977-1710 18 Dec. 15, 2010 WINDY CITY TIMES MOVIES AC: When we’re rather close together? WCT: Yes. Was that intentional or did I just pick up on that? Alan Cumming on Burlesque, AC: I think that’s just you. [Audience laughs hard.] Tempest and much more WCT: Speaking of homoerotic—can we move and at first I did find it hard to get the verse to Burlesque [also currently out in theaters]? thing to feel natural but now it’s no problem. Cher, Christina Aguilera and yourself—three WCT: When you come onto a set with a di- stars with their own fragrances. [Audience KNIGHT rector like Julie Taymor—someone with such laughs.] I saw the Flip camera video you did an extraordinary vision—are you more excit- of your last day of shooting. Can you share a AT ed? Are you thinking that things in general story about working on the film? THE will get more creative, as opposed to some- AC: I play the door whore. It’s sort of a fairy one who doesn’t have her visual language, tale in more ways than one and I’m hardly in MOVIES perhaps? it. I sort of bolt in and out, but the first time I AC: Yeah, I think when you go into it you know met Cher it was the day that Stanley Tucci got that it’s going to be a more richer kind of visual nominated for an Oscar for The Lovely Bones. thing and not just a film about people in a room They had champagne on the set of the film— talking. It’s going to have magic in it so, yeah, he’s a lovely man—and we’re chatting and he By though a lot of the magic happens, of course, says, “Have you met Cher yet?” and I said, “No” Richard after you’ve actually shot your stuff. I admire and so I went up to the bar on the set and I was Knight, Jr. her greatly. I think of her as a horse with blink- introduced to her. We started chatting and she ers on. When she works she’s very blinkered— said, “Do you like olives?” and I said, “Yeah” and she said, “these ones are really nice,” and we When the Chicago International Film Festival she knows what she wants and she’s very strong Alan Cumming. had this whole conversation about olives—and honored noted queer activist, actor, writer, di- about getting exactly what she wants, and I re- I’m thinking, “My opening salvo with Cher was rector, singer and all-around renaissance man ally admire that. It’s something a lot of people all about olives.” [Audience laughs.] Alan Cumming as the first recipient of its newly don’t have. that you’re bringing here [to the Harris Theater] WCT: Do you have a song in the film? created OUTrageous Award for Artistic Achieve- WCT: I talked with Helen Mirren last sum- next spring. Can you talk a little bit about that? AC: I do but it got cut—although it’s on the ment, Windy City Times’ film critic Richard mer and she talked about wanting to do more AC: I’d always kinda wanted to do it. I find it soundtrack. So it will probably be on the DVD. Knight, Jr. was asked to conduct the Q&A with Shakespearean women, and so this idea of a really amazing way to connect with an audi- It’s a version of “That’s Life,” the song that him. The lively discussion was held following a the gender switch incubated for a while and ence when you’re just being you. People had Frank Sinatra recorded. It’s kinda great—I’m on sneak preview of The Tempest (now out in the- I noticed a lot of gender-bending stuff in the asked me to do it a few times and I was always an album with Cher, and what could be better aters) with a packed audience. film. Was that intentional, other than Helen? too scared because usually when you’re an ac- than that? Windy City Times: Can you talk about your There’s certainly a subtext between you and tor there’s always a character between you and WCT: You have this new cabaret show based process in preparing for The Tempest? Chris Cooper at one point that seems rather the audience. [However,] I feel that there’s kind on your solo album I Bought a Blue Car Today Alan Cumming: Well, we had rehearsal for this, homoerotic. of a warped perception about who I am be- which you normally get in film so we actually cause of some of the characters that I’ve played had time to discuss it which you don’t usually MOVIES and partly because of that, the idea that I would get in film with the other actors—well, maybe just be, “Okay, it’s me now” was really terrifying while you’re waiting for the crew to set up—but Classic DVD for me—really paralyzingly terrifying. that’s about it. So that was my process though holiday gift So when I did it, it was a huge thing but I’ve I don’t really have a process. I find the word actually loved it and I’ve done it for the past “process” kind of anti-artistic. I think it makes recommendations year and a half or so all over the world, and it’s me into a machine. I don’t like it. By Richard Knight, Jr. been a really amazing thing for me as a per- WCT: This is Shakespeare, which goes back former. It’s really reinvigorated me at this stage to your training so, in a way, is this like fall- We’re getting down to the wire when it comes in my life about how you can connect with an ing off a log for you? Maybe your role in [the to Christmas shopping but before panic sets audience. TV show] The Good Wife is harder because in, here are a few suggestions for the classic WCT: You’re here as the first recipient of there’s a Chicago accent and a cultural differ- film fan on your list (from among several re- this OUTrageous award, which, to me, says ence. cent releases) that will most likely be highly that your work and your life are outrageous AC: Much harder. Much, much harder. I think coveted. because of the things that you encompass. American people have a very weird inferiority —The Night of the Hunter: This dark mas- There are so many projects, so many personal complex about doing Shakespeare and I don’t terpiece from 1955—the only film directed by things, so many egregious outrages that you understand why and some of the American ac- closeted actor Charles Laughton—has long have put a spotlight on and are passionate tors in this film were very nervous. Weirdly, needed the special-edition treatment; fans of about. Is there any particular area that per- because they’re brilliant actors, they had weird the movie (we are legion) will salivate over the sonally means more to you than any of the issues about being in a film like that—partly, Criterion Collection’s two-disc version (avail- —Cry Wolf: The Warner Archive has also just others? because I think it’s not they’re so used to it but able in both Blu-ray and DVD). The movie, released Films Starring Barbara Stanwyck, five AC: It’s a bit like changing deck chairs on the once you get the hang of the verse thing it’s not which focuses on a serial killer posing as a of “Stany’s” movies dating from the early ‘30s Titanic, in a funny sort of way. If you feel that brain surgery. preacher (Robert Mitchum at his most seduc- through the early ‘50s. The best of the lot something’s wrong in the world and you’re try- WCT: Really?! tive and frightening) who goes after two help- is this 1947 suspense mystery set on a lav- ing to align yourself with it because you want AC: I find that Shakespeare is a gaping hole in less children on his search for stolen bank loot, ish estate that seems to constantly be beset to make it better, it’s hard to choose one. But the reparatory of American theatre. For me, I’ve has been gorgeously remastered. It comes with by thunderstorms. The movie pits Stanwyck I have to say that I find it really annoying and been doing Shakespeare for a long, long time the usual bonus featurettes on the first disc against the impossibly beautiful Errol Flynn as crazy that as a citizen of America—I pay the while the second is an unheard-of two-and-a- the lord of the manor. same taxes as anyone else [and] probably more half-hour collection of outtakes that include —Taxi Zum Klo: This classic of gay cin- because I’m rich [audience laughs]—but I am Laughton directing his cast, often in voi- ema—a relationship dramedy—was truly not treated in the same way because of my ceover. The result is like the ultimate behind- groundbreaking when it was released in 1981. sexuality. That really pisses me off and I get so the-scenes feature—and a one-of-a-kind look Frank Rippoloh wrote, directed and stars (play- annoyed when people say, “This is not a civil- at Laughton’s process. ing a character named after himself) in the rights struggle. How dare you call it that?” —The Opposite Sex: This second remake of story of a German schoolteacher who is nothing It is a civil-rights struggle because [there are] gay director George Cukor’s 1939 classic The if not passionate about cruising for gay sex— people in this country who are not still, in 2010, Women isn’t nearly as pleasing as the origi- as much as he can find. That goes on until he not treated with the respect that other people nal, and June Allyson and Joan Collins are sec- meets the attentive, caring Bernd. Will Frank are. Right now we have this awful problem with ond-hand substitutes for high-falutin’ Norma give up his über-active sex life for monogamy bullying and all these kids killing themselves. Shearer and nasty, glamorous Joan Crawford with Bernd? It all leads up to Berlin’s annual [To] me, I think these people have blood on in the original. But this 1956 movie—filmed Queen’s Ball, which, in itself, is a fascinating their hands—these horrible right-wing people in a blaze of Technicolor and featuring Delo- piece of gay history. axi showed two men in who say that gay people are not equal. I think res Gray belting out the title song and sev- love and lust with no apologies long before I the same thing about a government that doesn’t eral other numbers—does have its compen- Love You Phillip Morris and a slew of other gay- tell its citizens that it’s wrong to disrespect gay sation nonetheles,s including Joan Blondell, themed movies. This 30th-anniversary edition people. I think until we have equality from the Ann Sheridan, Agnes Moorehead, Ann Miller includes a batch of bonus featurettes. Breaking top down, it’s really hard to completely make and Charlotte Greenwood in the supporting Glass Pictures, the distributor, has a number people understand. So that’s a big thing for me cast. There’s also a certain ‘50s hunk named of other LGBT-themed releases in its December right there [lots of applause]. Jeff Richards, who plays the singing cowboy slate worth checking out as well—Edie & Thea, WCT: I just want to say that you’re a living The Stranger In Us and Seeing Heaven. Alan Cumming at CIFF. Photo by Bob Dowey Buck Winston. It’s available through Warner example of the fact that “it does get better.” Archives’ DVD on Demand program. AC: Thank you. WINDY CITY TIMES Dec. 15, 2010 19 support you that you didn’t have before. and not have known it.” So it was not a surprise Meredith Baxter MB: That’s right. and when it dawned on me that it made a lot of WCT: Whatever you would like to promote sense. Not that I was trying not to be a lesbian your gay fans can stand behind you now. but it felt really right. on new book, coming out MB: Okay, then I will start with you and tell WCT: Oh, I know. The first time I kissed a you that I am promoting a book. It will not be guy I cried. I had been pushing everything by JERRY NUNN out until April but I have to start now. It is back for so long. called Who Knew and it is not just about coming MB: That makes me want to cry; it is so touch- Meredith Baxter is best known for her television out—it is about my life. The belief system that ing for you to say that. work, especially with ABC’s Family and NBC’s we develop as a child based on whatever is hap- WCT: How far along are you in the writing Family Ties. She has now become a part of our pening to us so it is universal, not just my story. process for your book? family by coming out of the closet officially. She I made some very negative choices in the past. MB: I just delivered the third draft. talked to Windy City Times about the experi- WCT: Well, we all have. WCT: Oh, so you are coming right along. ence, even providing exclusive information. MB: I just did an interview with someone and Well, you have to come back to Chicago on a Windy City Times: Hello, Meredith. I watched they asked if I was living a lie all those years book tour. I look forward to reading it when you on TV for years. I was fairly small when that I was married. I said, “When you live a life it comes out. Family was out. You won an Emmy for it? as unexamined as mine I could have been a frog MB: Thanks so much. Meredith Baxter: No, I didn’t win an Emmy. They sort of misrepresented it but I think they didn’t mean to. I have been nominated three times in the past. WCT: Well, being nominated is great. MB: Nominated is actually better because CULTURE CLUB those are my peers, the winners are chosen by a committee. WCT: What led you to audition for Family Ties? MB: They came to me. I was very lucky. WCT: Since then you have been doing a lot of charity work and raising awareness for breast cancer. Meredith Baxter. Photo by Sarah Toce MB: I have been a speaker for hire for breast- cancer awareness [and] domestic violence, and your girlfriend.” I didn’t know what was sup- speak from life experience. Not that I have such posed to happen; I wasn’t going to deny any- a riveting life, but I have had lessons that were thing. I just wanted a quiet life—you know, as unique to me that I have learned. So it is very we do. I was not looking for anything. Because interesting for me to share them. there was a threat of The Enquirer particularly WCT: Do you want to become a speaker for going public with it and making up a story. They LGBT issues now? will take a grain of truth and make what they MB: I have. I have been working with HRC [the want out of it. It becomes ugly, sneaky and I Human Rights Campaign] and for Outfest. I am didn’t want that. going to do some more events as soon as I go [Tears up] I am feeling now what I felt that back. day when Howard Bragman, who was my PR guy, WCT: Great. So let’s talk about the whole became my public-relations person because he thing with [Internet gossip columnist] Perez is very good with bringing out LGBT [individu- Hilton. Did he put you on the spot? als] in the community. He said the first thing we MB: I went on this cruise that part of We Have need to do is get you on the Today show. I said, To Stop Now, which you may not know about “What? No, no, no—this is not right. I shouldn’t 5FMMB-JUUMF-JFGPS-PWF but it is a web series. We were filming on the have to do this.” cruise. It was a lesbian series so I thought I am WCT: You were forced into coming out, courting this, I understand what I am doing. I which is not fair. was thinking I would have to address it when I MB: Yes, well life isn’t fair, but it was baptism get off the cruise. I didn’t know if I should put by fire. I had to work myself into getting okay an ad in the paper. I didn’t know what you do in with going on there. I don’t know if you saw it a situation like this! but it was horrifying! Matt Lauer asked, “Is there WCT: Well, sure. something you want to tell us?” I was thinking, MB: I called my manager when I got off the “Aren’t you going to say it?” But it was fine. He cruise and approached the subject and he said, was lovely. I have to say that was the worst. It “By the way, Perez Hilton, The Star, The Globe has been fabulous ever since. I have a freedom and The Enquirer are calling us and want to the now that I never expected. know the story. They have pictures of you and WCT: Now you will have new fans that can Mariah releasing SFNZCVNQQPPSH (FUUJDLFUTGPS8JMEFTCFTUMPWFEDPNFEZ second holiday CD Superstar singer Mariah Carey has released Merry Christmas II You—her second career album of holiday tunes—on the Island Def Jam Music Group. In addition to traditional yuletide fare —“The First Noel,” “Little Drummer Boy,” “O Now Extended

Little Town of Bethlehem,” “O Come All Ye December 18!through Faithful” and more—the album also contains four original songs composed by Mariah, including the new single, “Oh Santa.” Her first holiday album, Merry Christmas (featuring the number-one single “All I Want for Christmas Is You”) has sold more than 12 million copies. A New Play by Patricia B-52s’ Schneider’s Kane Christmas CD Noah Brodie (keyboards and electronic drums) Love, Openly gay vocalist Fred Schneider of The B- and Dan Marshall (programming). 52s released Destination… Christmas!, an al- Tracks include “Santa’s Disco,” “Fruitcake” bum of 11 original holiday songs by his band, and “Jingle Those Bells.” Schneider said, “It’s About@ Theater Face Wit (1229 Theatre W. Belmont) The Superions, on Fanatic Records, according hard to say who our musical influences for this to a press release. The CD will feature lyrics project were, because we don’t want to get and vocals by Schneider, and he’ll be joined by sued.” 20 Dec. 15, 2010 WINDY CITY TIMES TRAVEL the prison closed in 1971. Today, ESP is open for historic tours daily ($12 adult). During the Halloween season, ESP holds one of the largest Philadelphia: Haunted House attractions in the country, “Terror Behind the Walls.” Program Director Sean Kelley A lot more led us behind the scenes of the haunted house and into the old building. This place is seriously than Rocky creepy—complete with crumbling walls, rusting by Kate Sosin gates and paint chips littering the floor. Kel- ley told us that “Terror Behind the Walls” relies Philadelphia is not likely on your list of gay mostly on the building itself to scare thrill-seek- travel destinations. Its summers are too muggy, ers. I can see why. When I reached the top of the it’s winters too frigid and its waterfront has yet guard tower, my brand-new flashlight died. I was to be developed. But Philly is as charming as a spooked, but all of the writers agreed—ESP is at small town and seductive as a large city. And, the top of the must-see list in Philadelphia. best of all, Philly’s LGBT scene, as historic as the city itself, is experiencing a revitalization like no other. I recently got to know gay Philly as a guest of the Greater Philadelphia Tourism Marketing Corporation on a press trip with other writers. And while luck was not always on my side (losing $4 at Philly’s new casino), I did manage to defeat an entire cheesesteak and run in the footsteps of Rocky.

Independent’s day A mural in Philadelphia. Photos by Kate Sosin After landing in Philly, I checked into The Independent (1234 Locust; 215-772-1440; http://www.theindependenthotel.com), a rela- basement pool room. The drinks at Sisters are Steaks (1219 S. 9th; 215-389-0659; http:// tively new boutique hotel in the heart of Philly’s strong enough to knock out a linebacker, and www.genosteaks.com). Geno’s bears the name “Gayborhood.” The classic-meets-modern hotel the crowd (which is racially and generationally of owner Joey Vento’s openly gay son, who was brings continental breakfast to your own door diverse) is all fun and no pretension. Billiards named after the business—not the other way and happy hour to its lobby with complimentary fans, beware: The top of this pool table has to around, as some might suspect. The father/ refreshments. The best part of this LGBT-friendly be replaced frequently—and not because Phila- son duo has served every celebrity from Oprah hotel is that it sits just above Q Lounge + Kitch- delphians love pool... to Vanna White to Ray Romano. But ordering a en (known simply as “Q” to locals), a glittery red cheesesteak in Philly is not for the faint of heart, lounge bar with a sweet-tooth happy-hour mar- History lessons—and jail time and I’m not just talking about the calories. Cus- tini menu ($4). I ordered a pomegranate martini Despite a lethal last drink from Sisters the tomers in line repeatedly referenced Seinfeld’s before heading off to dinner at Lolita (106 S. night before, I rose early enough the next day famous “Soup Nazi” episode, and I learned fast (New) Hope springs eternal 13th; 215-546-7100; http://www.lolitabyob. to catch a tour with LGBT historian Bob Skiba. they were serious. Our guide insistently prepped Just 45 minutes northeast of Philly, New Hope com/lolita). Skiba showed us some of the must-see historic us on how to order. In the end, I ordered an proclaims itself a village welcoming of “diver- Locals joke that Lolita owners Valerie Safran Philly sites: Benjamin Franklin’s tombstone, “American without” (translation: a cheesesteak sity.” In fact, New Hope is a bit of an oddity—a and Marcie Turney have taken over the entire the Liberty Bell and, of course, the Rocky with American cheese and without onions), and revived small town that’s actively gay-friendly. block. (This lesbian duo owns five restaurants statue below to the Philadelphia Museum of Art got my cheesesteak without incident. New Hope has its gay bars and an annual Pride and a grocery store.) Eat at Lolita once, and Steps. (Yes, I ran the steps.) Skiba also took Chic, laid-back and warm, dinner at Tweed weekend, but locals say LGBT people really are you’ll wish they would take over your own block. us to the William Way Community Center, (114 S. 12th; 215-923-3300; http://www.twee- part of the fabric of the whole town. Indeed, I This B.Y.O.T. (Bring Your Own Tequila) eatery de- Philly’s largest LGBT center. The center houses drestaurant.com) later was a welcome contrast. saw a lot of visibly queer folks strolling happily livers a classic Mexican-American menu full of an impressive archive collection, documenting Chef David Cunningham served up a dazzling down Main Street. (Yep, it’s really called Main risky and delightful twists, like the melted Oax- the history of gay Philly and beyond (even pos- array of local organic American appetizers and Street.) aca and Chihuahua cheese appetizer ($10) with sessing old copies of Windy City Times!). We also hearty fare. The butternut-squash ravioli was the In my experience, every small East Coast town hints of rosemary and smoky bits of brandied visited Independence Hall, where the historical favorite among other writers, while I preferred a has a great chocolate shop, and my search chorizo. The must-try dish here is a carne asada, marker celebrates Philly’s first gay-rights pro- pan-seared chicken. A Victory Storm King Stout ended at Country Fair Chocolates (93 S. Main; but don’t fret that you’re missing out on trying tests (1965-1969). (local to Penn.) topped off my meal and also 215-862-5359). The sweet shop is famous for its something new; Turney, a chef, has managed to The best part of historic Philadelphia is that loosened me up for our next (terrifying) stop… chocolate-covered strawberries and while mine liven the classic dish with plantain crema, avo- it’s 100-percent free. In fact, most historical Eastern State Penitentiary (2124 Fairmount; was frankly, perfect, I mostly enjoyed a chat cado salsa and fried yucca ($24). A dark noisy sites don’t even require advance tickets. 215-236-5111; http://www.easternstate.org). with “Barb,” who refused to give me her full atmosphere and $13 margarita pitchers (don’t In September, Philadelphia became the largest Eastern State Penitentiary (ESP) is probably name for fear that she’d steal spotlight from the forget to B.Y.O.T.) make Lolita the perfect place U.S. city to house a casino. SugarHouse Casino the last place most people want to be. For us, shop’s owner (whose name is Phyllis Foster). for a large group or a casual date. If you can (1001 N. Delaware; 877-477-3715; http://www. it’s a historical wonder and a ghost-hunter’s Back in Philly, I found my way to “Inter- only dine out in one place in Philly, go here. sugarhousecasino.com), which opened this fall dream. The towering prison opened in 1829 as twined,” a gallery opening at the Leeway Foun- After dinner, Denise Cohen walked us over along the Delaware River, ate four of my five dol- part of a Quaker experiment in “penitence” and dation (1315 Walnut, Suite 832; 215-545-4078; to her nightclub, Sisters (1320 Chancellor; lars in under a minute. I decided to stop while prison reform. Al Capone spent eight months http://www.leeway.org) where an old college 215-735-0735; http://www.sistersnightclub. ahead, and saved a $1 voucher as a souvenir. at the solitary confinement prison, as did Wil- friend and other queer artists were showing tex- com). The only predominantly lesbian bar in Of course, no trip to Philly would be com- lie Sutton, the famous bank robber. Disallowed Philly, Sisters is a tri-level club, split between plete with a gut-busting cheesesteak, so we from talking, reading or communicating, many Turn to page 23 a mirrored dance floor, a bar/restaurant and a went down to South Philly to check out Geno’s inmates suffered from mental breakdowns, and DaveOuanoPhotography.com Events • Fashion • Fitness

ModelMayhem.com/DaveOuano [email protected] WINDY CITY TIMES Dec. 15, 2010 21 to go to graduate school to become a clinical psychologist. After graduating, he opened The Talbott Teas: Center for Personal Development: “I love being a psychologist; however, in my heart, I’m really How Oprah Steven a closeted entrepreneur.” Nakisher (left) —Hobbies: Talbott likes to paint, read and and Shane do yoga. Nakisher enjoys mentoring: “I’ve had changed gay Talbott. amazing mentors in my life, so I do a lot of Photo giving back by mentoring younger people with owners’ lives courtesy of drive and ambition.” By Ross Forman Nakisher —Favorite movie: The Color Purple, for both. Runner-up: The Hours. Their lives changed overnight—make that, in —Favorite TV show(s): It’s Project Runway the morning. and Top Chef for both. Talbott watches every- On Monday morning, Nov. 23. thing: “I deal with so many difficult things Shane Talbott and Steven Nakisher, part- during the day that I love to relax by watch- ners in business and in life, experienced that ing TV. If anyone really knows me, the question once-in-a-lifetime business boom when their wouldn’t be ‘What’s your favorite TV show.’ The company, Talbott Teas, was tagged as one of real question would be, ‘What’s your favorite TV Oprah’s favorite things this year. the screaming stopped, we definitely had a great bott Teas. show for each day of the week?’ Thank God for “[Monday] was more exciting than we could dinner that night.” “I used to say that Talbott Teas was Shane’s Tivo.” have imagined,” Nakisher said. “The anticipa- Talbott and Nakisher had about a month to most expensive hobby,” Nakisher said. —Favorite actress: Meryl Streep, for both tion was so overwhelming; we could not sit prepare for The Oprah Effect—and it truly has Talbott replied, “If you follow your true pas- —Dream vacation spot: Paris, for both still. We are so grateful for this opportunity. This been a whirlwind, they said. sion, success will come.” —Best-selling blends at Talbott Teas: Co- is truly a dream come true.” “We took out a loan against our home; we Their success, the success of Talbott Teas, has coa Cardamom Seduction, Green Tea Heaven and Immediately after the segment aired, they invested every last penny we had; we filled up arrived, finally. Blissful Blueberry looked at each other and Talbott said, “I love our credit cards; and we borrowed money from “We invested all of our money and every min- —Fun facts: Talbott Teas was featured in the you. Here we go.” They toasted each other with our family. We took the risk. Neither of us slept ute we could find to create and develop Talbott swag bags at the 2009 Academy Awards. Talbott a glass of champagne and screamed—and much this past month,” Nakisher said. “We cre- Teas. It is truly a labor of love,” Nakisher said. Teas also created a Ruby Slippers Blend for the scared their dog, Sophie. ated as much product as we could afford. We “Everyone thought we were crazy. They would Warner Brother’s 70th anniversary of the Wizard The orders have been pouring in ever since, worked like crazy on the website. We worked, say that it’s almost impossible to build a suc- of Oz in New York City. from literally around the world. worked, worked. We focused on the process, and cessful new product on the market. Thankfully, —Another fun fact: About two years ago, “It’s been amazing. We have been working we reminded each other how grateful we were we are both stubborn.” with the development of the Trump property in day and night to prepare. However, there is no for each other. We had to upgrade and change And a little help from Oprah certainly didn’t Chicago, Shane and Steven pitched a custom way to really prepare for something like this,” everything. We even had to move into a bigger hurt. collection of tea blends to Donald Trump. Two Nakisher said. “We are too busy now to think or warehouse space. years later, they were approved to create Trump feel. We are just busy filling orders and loving it. “Needless to say, this will be our best holiday More about Shane Talbott and Steven Nak- Tea, which launched earlier this year: http:// Our office feels like Santa’s Workshop.” season. We will definitely top any of our past isher: www.TrumpTea.com. Talbott, 38, and Nakisher, 41, have been part- sales goals. It will be a hard to top this year in —Midwest roots: Talbott grew up near Oma- —Where did they meet: They met at Big ners for 14 years and live together in Lakeview. the future.” ha, Neb. Nakisher grew up in the suburbs of De- Chicks in Andersonville. Talbott introduced him- They made their commitment to each other of- Talbott is the company’s co-founder and CCG troit. They have been in Chicago for about 20 self and told Nakisher that he only went out to ficial in 2004 in a religious ceremony in front of (chief creative genius). Nakisher is the co- years. “Chicago is truly home for us. It has ev- the bars twice a year. Nakisher replied that he, about 150 family and friends at the InterConti- founder and president. Talbott is the creative erything,” Nakisher said. “Every time we travel, too, rarely went out, although that wasn’t com- nental Hotel in downtown Chicago. partner; Nakisher is the businessman. when we arrive back in the city we always say, pletely true. “After our first date, it was clear “We just wanted our chance to have a good “Shane has had a vision from the beginning ‘There’s no place like home.’” that we would spend our lives together,” Nak- old-fashioned wedding like everyone else gets about what has been missing in the market for —Chicago: Nakisher moved to Chicago in 1991 isher said. to have ... a rabbi, flowers, cake, a 10-piece tea,” Nakisher said. “I really want to update and band, etc.,” Nakisher said. “It was very, very tra- modernize the glamour of having tea. I want to ditional and we loved every minute. It was truly brush off the dust of the image of the little old the best day of our lives.” ladies having a tea party with their dainty little The Holiday Show! But Nov. 23 has to rank right up there, at flowery tea cups. least from a professional standpoint. Thanks to “My dream is to create the tea party for the Thurs, Dec. 23rd • LIVE! Stand-Up Comedy Oprah. ‘Sex and the City’ crowd—a cup of couture. I “In 2008, Oprah decided to open her retail want tea to be sophisticated, fashionable, cre- 8pm (sharp) -9pm store, The Oprah Store. It is right next to the ative and most importantly, delicious. Then Comedy studio [where her TV show is filmed] and is “Talbott Teas is truly steeped in style. I work Video ‘til 2am filled with many of her favorite things that are to create unique and creative tea blends that branded with her name,” Nakisher said. “Oprah have indulgent flavors and use only the best, ® is an avid tea drinker and has tea sets for sale all-natural ingredients, no artificial flavoring in the store. Shane decided to approach the that is found in most tea.” store manager and suggested making a special Talbott Teas are now available at Bloom- blend of tea to accompany the tea sets.” ingdales stores nationwide, The Oprah store in The manager said she’d take the suggestion Chicago, several local restaurants, the Four Sea- to Oprah to see what she thinks. Sure enough, sons Hotel in New York City and on the com- Oprah liked the idea and requested a few sam- pany’s website (http://www.talbottteas.com). ples. “I know that Oprah is an avid tea drinker and The only guidelines Talbott and Nakisher she appreciates the finer things. She also loves were given were that she wanted the tea to be the creativity of the flavors and blends. It makes a rooibos tea, which is native to South Africa tea approachable and not such a mysterious or and is naturally caffeine-free, and she loves Earl unapproachable thing,” Nakisher said. “We were Grey. instantly introduced to the world [by Oprah]. BBeetthh SStteelllliinngg •• MMoo WWeellsshh There is nothing better than the Oprah Factor. “I went right to my lab and got to work,” Tal- Bradley Thomas • Adam Guerino bott said. “I was so inspired and wanted to be Bradley Thomas • Adam Geurino creative and knock her cashmere socks off. I had Sweet home, Chicago && tthhee mmuussiiccaall ccoommeeddyy ooff NNYYCC’’ss so many great ideas and had dozens of ideas Talbott moved to Chicago in 1992 to pursue a 33334499NN..HHaallsstteedd for tea blends inspired by many of Oprah’s fa- career as a hair colorist in downtown Chicago. SSiiddeettrraacckkCChhiiccaaggoo..ccoomm vorite things. After much sampling and editing, He worked for several years as a colorist on Oak BBeenn LLeerrmmaann I narrowed it down to six blends that I wanted Street until they opened their own Oak Street •• MMaakkee NNoo SSmmaallll PPllaannss •• to present to her. salon in 2001. “My assumption was that she would take a While working as a hair colorist, Talbott al- look at the options and decide on one to be ways shared his passion for tea with his clients. AAbbeenneeffiitt ffoorr FRIDAY, a featured blend at the store. To my surprise, Shane was inspired to go against the Starbucks EEqquuaalliittyyIIlllliinnooiissPPAACC DEC. 31 she loved all six and said we could make all of culture and created a tea bar inside the Oak them. I was blown away. Those six tea blends Street salon—and created custom blends for have been in The Oprah Store since it opened.” his clients. In late October, the two got a call from one of “My clients have always been my test audi- the producers of the show. It was The Call. ence,” Talbott said. “They would always give “It was a Friday just after 5 p.m., and we were me great feedback to help me perfect the tea WELCOME 1.1.11 blends.” NYE $$2255ttiicckkeettssffrroomm trying to decide where to go for dinner,” Nakish- After years of perfecting his blends, the duo yyoouurrbbaarrtteennddeerroorr er said. “I answered the phone and the producer oonnlliinneeaattEEQQIILL..oorrgg said, ‘Congratulations! Ms. Winfrey has chosen started packaging Talbott Teas in 2003—and Talbott Teas as one of her Favorite Things!’ After soon decided to sell the salon and focus on Tal- 22 Dec. 15, 2010 WINDY CITY TIMES CLASSIFIEDS REAL ESTATE ACCOUNTANTS CLEANING SERVICES RESEARCH STUDY FOR SALE CHESTNUT CLEANING SERVICES: We’re a house cleaning RESEARCH OPPORTUNITY. 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An independently owned and operated member of Prudential Real Estate Afﬁliates, Inc. WINDY CITY TIMES Dec. 15, 2010 23 “If someone wants something to do with Angela James: Canadian the game, I’m there more than for one specific COUPLES from page 12 group or cause; I’m not close-minded to any [cause],” she said. “Anyone who knew one thing and Civil Union Act is cause for celebration, lesbian—and hockey legend about me knew that I had a partner and chil- it does not mean that same-sex couples no dren for the last 12 years. longer need to worry about health and estate By Ross Forman planning. While the default rights discussed “I feel sorry for athletes who feel that they cannot be themselves and express who they above certainly will provide security to same- Angela James is, to some, just the senior sports sex couples, these rights do not always equal are, and express any open feelings toward their coordinator at Seneca College in Toronto. In the level of security provided by executing a partner. I’d love to see people just be who they fact, some of those who just know James as the personalized estate plan. For example, every- are, whether an athlete, politician, doctor, or Seneca employee approached her in mid-Novem- one, whether straight or gay, single or com- anyone who is in the public-eye.” ber and asked about her hockey background. mitted, should execute powers of attorney James and McDonald have been together for They asked, “How come you didn’t tell me that for healthcare and property. These are legal you played hockey for so long and were such a 16 years—and James has three children: Chris- documents that allow you to identify the indi- star?” tian, 11; Toni, 5; and Michael, 5. vidual you want to make health and financial It was modesty, you see. However, James cer- “I enjoy myself in and around the [LGBT] com- decisions for you, if you become unable to do tainly was the real deal on the ice. munity, but I’m not an activist who’s going out so. These documents are simple, inexpensive James was, starting in the late 1970s, a goal- there, screaming and shouting for [LGBT] rights. and will give individuals peace of mind. scoring machine in Canadian women’s hockey, I do it, but from the inside, not the outside,” In sum, we should celebrate now, but know though she didn’t truly gain national fame until James said. that everyone should consult an attorney to the inaugural Women’s World Championship in James was born in Toronto and attended Sen- analyze what estate-plan is most appropriate 1990, held in Ottawa, Ontario. eca College, where she won numerous titles in for them. James ultimately led Canada to four world ice hockey and softball and had her jersey (No. Ray J. Koenig III and MacKenzie A. Hyde titles. 8) retired. are attorneys at Clark Hill PLC. Their prac- James, 45, also played forward in the Central In 2008, the Angela James Bowl was created tice areas include estate, trust and guard- Ontario Women’s Hockey League (now known as in her honor, awarded annually to the top scor- ianship litigation, elder law and estate the National Women’s Hockey League). er in the Canadian Women’s Hockey League. planning. James scored 34 points (22 goals, 12 assists) in 20 games over four women’s world championships, including 11 goals in five games in the PHILLY from page 20 contrary, Tavern has all the makings of a mod- inaugural World Women’s Championships in ern gay club: a spacious dance floor upstairs 1990. and a white shiny bar downstairs. Still, Tavern tile work. The artists told me that Philly’s arts In 2008, James, along with Chicago-area na- stays true to Philly history—the whole down- community and queer communities are incred- tive Cammi Granato and Canadian Geraldine stairs is a piano bar. ibly active, especially in West Philly. Heaney, became the first women inducted into The evening was spent at the restaurant the International Ice Hockey Federation Hockey Angela James. Photo courtesy of James In conclusion... Meritage (500 S. 20th; 215-985-1922; http:// Hall of Fame. Before heading home to Chicago, I had the www.meritagephiladelphia.com), where we And, on Nov. 8, James and Granato were in- chance to visit Outfest, Philly’s celebration of ducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in Toronto, year’s class historic. enjoyed a quiet meal outside, under trees lit National Coming out Day (NCOD). With 40,000 the first women ever inducted. James was a trailblazer, period. by twinkle lights. While the grilled herb crust people roaming through the Gayborhood, Out- James is the daughter of a Black father and “Cammi and I pushed to elevate the women’s lamb chops ($24) were excellent, portions all fest is the world’s largest NCOD celebration. white mother; she is the only African-Canadian game on the national level,” James said. “My around were so small that most of our table The festival takes over the entire Gayborhood, to captain a national hockey team—and she is thing always was hockey, be it playing for my expressed disappointment. and vendors and community organizations take an open lesbian, whose partner of 16 years is club teams, or my providences, or my country. I had been told that Woody’s Bar (261 S. over the streets. Angela McDonald. It’s so remarkable to be inducted into the Hall 13th; 215-545-1893; http://www.woodysbar. Of course, I couldn’t leave Philly without And James saluted and thanked McDonald dur- of Fame, so everyone now knows what I did, com) is the “Cheers” of Philly, so I decided to checking out our nation’s oldest LGBT book- ing her November speech at the Hall of Fame in what I achieved. spend my last night in Philly among “friends.” store, so I walked over to 12th and Pine to Toronto. “Being a trailblazer is remarkable. And hope- Indeed, the mostly male crowd was welcom- check out Giovanni’s Room (345 S. 12th; “The actual induction into the Hall of Fame fully I can help the hopes and dreams of other ing and talkative. Another writer and I easily 215-923-2960; http://www.giovannisroom. was out of this world, a lot of fun,” said James, young girls in the game. befriended two guys who invited us to Philly’s com). This old-fashioned book shop is a great who has been receiving congratulatory calls and “I think this [honor] comes with a responsibil- oldest gay bar, Tavern on Camac (243 S. Ca- place to lose an afternoon, with every LGBT e-mails from literally around the world. “To be ity that you send the right message, and contin- mac; 215-545-0900; http://www.tavernonca- title you could want, and a sizeable stack of on the Wall of Fame with the greats of all time, ue to help people develop—through the sport or mac.com). discounted books for your plane ride home. But I had the feeling of, ‘Is this really happening?!’ in the classroom. That has always been the case Tavern is nestled in one of the Gayborhood’s on my own flight back I could do only thing— It’s hard to absorb and understand.” for me, but elevated since [the induction].” many cobblestone alleys, with brick buildings finally, sleep. James and Granato were joined in the Hall of James said that by thanking her partner in as old as the city itself. Given its location, I For travel information, check out http:// her Hall of Fames speech, it attracted the eyes Fame’s Class of 2010 by 600-goal scorer Dino expected to find a dark musty bar, with large www.visitphilly.com. Ciccarelli and builders Jim Devellano and Doc and ears of many within the LGBT community, mugs of beer and sticky wooden tables. On the Seaman, yet the two women certainly made this though that was not her intention.

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Solstice Salon, DJ SpinNikki, pop, dance, soul, indie rock, holiday favorites; surprise guests; mulled wine; festive treats plus 100% of Sappho’s proceeds benefit Broad- way Youth Center in providing advocacy and support for LGBTQ teens, including services for homeless queer youth. In ad- Brought to you by the combined efforts of dition to raising funds, we will be collect- ing needed supplies for B.Y.C., including tooth brushes and toothpaste, deodorant, IN THE ‘QUEER’ shampoo and conditioner, feminine hy- Sunday, Dec. 19 giene products, new socks, underwear (all sizes), thermal underwear, hats, scarves, A group will meet to gloves, and CTA fare cards. 7:30 p.m., Women & Children First, 5233 N. Clark, discuss Terry Galloway’s Wed., Dec. 15 http://www.womenandchildrenfirst.com (above) Mean Little HIV and the Holidays: A Supportive Dis- HAUS MUSIC Shangela & Jade LIVE RuPaul’s Drag Race Deaf Queer at Women & cussion The holidays can lead to compli- Wed., Dec. 22 stars Shangela & Jade LIVE. Two shows: cations and added stress for persons living Children First, 5233 N. midnight and 1am $5 cover, $10 with VIP Clark. with HIV: whether or not to disclose your DJs Greg Haus and Adam EL meet and greet. VJ Riley York, DJ Teo. 11 status to friends and family, how to explain p.m., Spin Nightclub, 800 W. Belmont, the medications you’re taking, and others. will spin the music of Kylie http://www.spin-nightclub.com Photo by Alan Pogue Refreshments. Free, but RSVP required to Minogue (right) and Goldfrapp 9 to 12 Bowling Bowling is the 3rd Satur- Gregory Gross, Clinical Manager of the HIV at Berlin, 954 W. Belmont. day of the month from 9 p.m. to midnight. Testing & Prevention Program, ggross@ 9 p.m., River Rand Bowl - Des Plaines go’s only amateur drag contest has been a centeronhalsted.org or 773-472-6469 x hit at Roscoe’s since its premier in 2000. 478. 6 p.m., 773-472-6469, Center on 11 p.m., 773-281-3355, Roscoe’s Tavern, PR photo Sunday, Dec. 19 Halsted, 3656 N Halsted, http://www.cen- Urban Village Church service LGBT-wel- 3356 N. Halsted, http://www.roscoes.com teronhalsted.org coming worship services at Urban Village Chicago-based Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis Church 10:15am, Spertus Institute, 610 S. Wed., Dec. 22 Chicago-based Pre- You’re the Star Karaoke with Honey West Study Team forum brary Lincoln Park Branch, http://www. Jan. 1. The North Pole is in crisis. Nobody Michigan, http://www.newchicagochurch. Exposure Prophylaxis Study Team responds Take your place in the spotlight! There’s chipublib.org./events/details/id/54617/ believes in Santa anymore! Elves have com/ to recent iPrEx study results and its poten- not a bad seat in the house. 10 p.m., Women Like Me Are you currently or previ- been laid off and the morale and morals Buffy Discussion Group Potluck of snacks tial impact on the future direction of Proj- 773-281-3355, Roscoe’s Tavern, 3356 N ously married, but think that you might are at an all time low. 7:30 p.m., Mary’s at Women & Children First and talk about ect PrEPare, co-facilitated by Jim Pickett, Halsted St, http://www.roscoes.com be lesbian, bisexual, or gay? If so, join Attic, 5400 N. Clark, http://www.hand- our favorite monsters, demons, and forces Director of Advocacy for the AIDS Founda- MinogueFrapp Kylie Minogue and Gold- us for Women Like Me, an ongoing wom- bagproductions.org of darkness from the Buffyverse. 2 p.m., tion of Chicago and Chair of the Interna- frapp showcase with DJs Greg Haus and en’s discussion and support group. In an Chicago Gay Idols Unite Sofo Bar’s 2010 Women & Children First, 5233 N. Clark, tional Rectal Microbicide Advocates. 6:30 Adam EL. 10 p.m., Berlin, 954 W Belmont, open-discussion format, we’ll address top- Gay Idol Mark Ortega has joined forces http://http://www.womenandchildren- p.m., 773-864-8003, Center on Halsted, http://www.berlinchicago.com ics unique to women who have previously with reigning 2010 Windy City Gay Idol first.com/event/buffy-discussion-group-5 3656 N. Halsted, http://www.projectpre- identified as straight. For more informa- Matt Rivera and Idol Finalists Michael Gery Chico town hall Chicago mayoral can- parechicago.org tion, call 773-388-3319; 6 p.m., 4025 N. McBride and James Gavin for a night of didate Gery Chico will host a town hall Thursday, Dec. 23 Live at Frat House Thursday at Scarlet Join Chi- Amy Armstrong and Freddy Allen Sheridan, http://www.howardbrown.org entertainment to benefit Howard Brown 2-4 p.m. at Center on Halsted, 3656 N. Rehab Join the zany and talented Amy cagoPride.com and Scarlet as we host all Community Forums on Civil Unions Equal- Health Center. Britney Warren will also Halsted, to discuss his campaign and LGBT Armstrong and Freddy Allen for a night of frat guys and their fans. Scarlet ramps up ity Illinois discussion about civil union be making her Chicago debut. 8:30 p.m., platform. RSVP at caleb4chico@gmail. cabaret and comedy at Rehab. 9 p.m., Re- the frat factor with a night of 40-ounce bill. CEO Bernard Cherkasov and Director of 714-392-3356, Sofo, 4923 N. Clark, com. hab Lounge, 3641 N Halsted, http://www. beer specials, HOT bartenders, cranked-up Public Policy Rick Garcia will lead a discus- http://www.sofobar.com Urban Village Church Wicker Park Worship music and hottie high jinks! 21+ with ID; amyfreddy.com/music-and-comedy/ sion and questions-and-answer session. 6 Services LGBT welcoming worship services 9 p.m., Scarlet, 3320 N Halsted, http:// p.m., Center on Halsted, 3656 N Halsted, Friday, Dec. 17 at Urban Village Church are eclectic and www.scarletbarchicago.com Thursday, Dec. 16 http://www.centeronhalsted.org International Day to End Violence Against experiential, practical and intelligent, rel- Love Drugged Chicago author James Klise Stardust Xmas Ball Hosted by Santa (Jojo) Rudolph the Red-Hosed Reindeer Hell in Sex Workers 6:30 p.m., 312-252-3880, evant and, hopefully, inspiring. 5:30 p.m., will read from his new book, Love Drugged, Baby. DJs Team Bayside High and Ross a Handbag Productions is proud to re- Hull House - UIC Campus 800 S. Halsted, 1502 N. Hoyne (at LeMoyne), http://www. talk about his writing process and more. Kelly. 10 p.m., Berlin, 954 W Belmont Ave, mount David Cerda’s parody of the clas- http://www.swop-chicago.org newchicagochurch.com/ This program is especially for teens, but http://www.berlinchicago.com sic children’s television special “Rudolph Von Heidecke’s Chicago Festival Ballet Feminist Book Group Discussion: Mean Lit- open to parents, librarians and educators. the Red-Nosed Reindeer”, now in it’s 13th Production Internationally Renowned tle Deaf Queer by Terry Galloway; 6 p.m., 4 p.m., 312-744-1926, Chicago Public Li- year! Thursdays through Saturdays, thru Choreographer Kenneth Von Heidecke Women & Children First, 5233 N. Clark Thursday, Dec. 28 LGBT Employment and Discrimination Is- teams up with The New Philharmonic and sues Half-hour program presented by the Music Director/Conductor Kirk Muspratt Monday, Dec. 20 Illinois State Bar Association (ISBA), will for The Nutcracker” Through Sunday, Dec. A Night at the Movies with The Banyan air on Chicago Access Network Television, 19. 7 p.m., 630-527-1052, McAninch Arts Tree Project Asian Human Services and Channel 21 in Chicago, at 10 p.m. on Center College Of Dupage, 245 Fawell, The Banyan Tree Project are presenting A Tuesdays; 10 p.m., Chicago Access Net- Glen Ellyn, http://www.atthemac.org Night at the Movies. 6 p.m., 773-293-8481, work Television, Channel 21, Chicago Pay It Forward Christmas Benefit Help us Evanston Public Library save Howard Brown. All proceeds directly Bisexual Movie Night Each third Monday, a to the Howard Brown Lifeline Fund. Amaz- casual, free movie night with popcorn and Friday, Dec. 31 7th Annual Dinner & A Movie ‘Women Com- ing silent auction includes a day on the refreshments. 7 p.m., Center on Halsted, ing Together” Relaxing overnight getaway set of WGN News, original painting of Bar- 3656 N Halsted, http://www.centeronhal- for a few hundred women who love women bra by Tim Otte, DJ lessons with DJ Teri sted.org presented by Class ‘C’ Entertainment fea- Bristol and more. Complimentary cham- Dollar Drink Night with DJ Laura B at tures luxurious accommodations, a wel- pagne reception 7-8 p.m.; 7 p.m., Parlour Hydrate Monday at HYDRATE is $1 DRINK come mix & mingle, candlelight dinner, on Clark, 6341 N. Clark, http://www.par- NIGHT! All well cocktails are only One big-screen movie collection of short films louronclark.com Dollar all night long! PLUS ... Dance to relating to lesbian of color experiences Alien Queen - A Sci-Fi Rock ParOdyssey the high energy fun sound that has made written, produced and directed by several Scooty & JoJo offer you a delicious par- DJ Laura B “2007’s Boystown’s BEST DJ!” of the nation’s lesbian of color filmmakers ody of Hollywood’s most terrifying sci-fi (Chicago Free Press) NO COVER UNTIL and later a dance party with an expected franchise, complete with enormous alien 10PM! $5 after 10PM! 9 p.m., Hydrate, 500 with Chicago Gay & Lesbian Hall of puppets, a multi-talented genderbending 3458 N. Halsted Fame’s Pat McCombs and Vera Washington, cast, a laser light show and a four-piece Live Band Karaoke with Amy Armstrong co-founders of Executive Sweet [a “travel- rock band covering the legendary songs Host Amy Armstrong ushers you to your ing club” for women of color] as hostesses of Queen. 7:30 p.m., 1-800-838-3006, place in the spotlight as you perform live [email protected]; 3 p.m., 312- Circuit Night Club, 3641 N Halsted St, with the band at Roscoe’s! There’s not a 399-9669, Sheraton Gateway Suites, 6501 http://scootyjojo.com bad seat in the house; 10 p.m., Roscoe’s Tavern, 3356 N Halsted St, http://www. N. Mannheim, Rosemont, http://www. Saturday, Dec. 18 roscoes.com classceechicago.com NYE at Sidetrack Welcome 1/1/11 at this In Brown Apparel Holiday Pub Crawl Chi- Industry Night hosted by Debbie Fox. Bar- special NYE benefit for Equality IL PAC. cago Gay Hockey Association is out this tenders Danny Gonzalez and Mini Shaina. $25 tickets from your bartender or online holiday season to benefit Howard Brown; One-night drink specials. 10:30 p.m., at EQIL.org. Sponsored by Palm Springs 3 p.m., 734-347-2564, North End, 3733 Berlin, 954 W Belmont, http://www.ber- Tourism and Stoli. 9 p.m., Sidetrack, 3349 N Halsted, http://www.facebook.com/ linchicago.com N Halsted, http://www.sidetrackchicago. event.php?eid=177829875576758&num_ com GERY SITUATION event_invites=0 Tuesday, Dec. 21 Sappho’s Solstice Salon benefiting Broad- Women’s Book Group Lighthousekeeping Sunday, Dec. 19 way Youth Center Sappho’s Salon, popular by Jeanette Winterson; 7:30 p.m., Women salon night for lesbians and their friends & Children First, 5233 N. Clark makes the yuletide gay with the annual Roscoe’s Drag Race with Frida Lay Chica- Mayoral candidate Gery Chico will hold a town hall to discuss his LGBT platform (among other things) at Center on Halsted, 3656 N. Halsted. Get WindyCityMediaGroup.com Photo courtesy of Todd Connor : online ChicagoPride.com WINDY CITY TIMES Dec. 15, 2010 25

For the month of December, Nightspots is doing something a little different with the Special content from Gift Guide (December 8) and the year-end BILLY MASTERS retrospective issue (December 22). nightspots Never fear! Turn to this space each week in gastric bypass. Well, I think she had a bypass— (You know what I sometimes do? Take the ad- it’s so hard to tell! But it’s not hard to recom- December for all your nightspots-y goodness. Also, “like” our Facebook page (www.facebook. vice I read in this very column. The fact that I’m mend this CD. It’s fun, fabulous, and festive... com/nightspots) for even more pictures of all Billy Masters doesn’t make the advice any less three of my favorite F-words! your favorite nightlife denizens. valuable. So when I realized I’d be in Fort Lau- I got the strangest question in my “Ask Billy” derdale the night Leslie Jordan came to town mailbag. Tony in Hawaii asked: “I just saw Eric with his holiday show, “Deck Them Halls Y’All”, Balfour in that god-awful Skyline”and I seem to I heeded by own advice and went. My spousal remember he was either in a Madonna video or The “Hole” truth equivalent Dan Renzi and I were delighted with did porn. Am I right?” It’s Back Into the Manhole at Hydrate on Sat., Dec. 11. Leslie’s down-home charm and way with a sto- Photos by Anthony Meade. See more of Anthony’s work at ChicagoPride.com ry. Yes, he kinda got lost a few times—and almost lost his wig—but he handles hurdles with such aplomb, you almost wish they’d pop up more often! Unlike Leslie’s more autobiograph- ical shows where he speaks (more or less) in his own voice, here we get the stories of three different people: a grandmother who was a strip- per in the waning days of vaudeville, a woman longing for gender reassignment surgery, and her son. I know what you’re thinking—it almost sounds like the life story of Cher! What holds this thread together is Leslie’s undeniable like- ability. I’m always thrilled to spend time in his presence—and that’s his present to us during this holiday tour. He’ll be on the road throughout December, so check out dates at TheLes- lieJordan.com. Last week there was a fire in the vicinity of Anderson Cooper’s new place in Greenwich Vil- lage (the flames were actually in the building next door). On the positive side, Andy’s abode is a former firehouse. On the negative side, the hoses have been ... um, “re-purposed.” All’s well that end’s well—the blaze was under control within an hour, no doubt helped by members of the NYFD arriving on the scene within three minutes. It’s almost as if they were already in the neighborhood... Speaking of Coop, the past two years he’s hosted New Year’s Eve on CNN with the outrageous Kathy Griffin. Of course, every time Kathy is on any show, rumors immediately spring up that she’ll not be invited back. Things did get a bit hairy after last week’s “Divas Salute the Troops,” which featured Kathy taking aim at Bristol Palin. Some folks at CNN felt that the funny lady may have crossed the line. However, two powerful people went to bat for her—Lar- Kathy Griffin—controversial she may be, but Kind of a drag ry King and Anderson Cooper! The outgoing it looks like she’ll help us drop the ball on The Call’s employee drag show on Thurs., Dec. 9 was a fundraiser for the elder statesman of CNN is a big fan of Kathy’s New Year’s Eve. organization No Kid Hungry. Photos by Devin Lee (calling her “a pistol”), and Andy is rumored to have said if Griffin goes, he goes. I told they’ll both be back. You’re right and wrong all at the same time. I was amused to hear that on Dec. 16, Lance Nope, Eric was never in a Madonna video or in Bass will appear in the off-Broadway play My porn. You may be thinking of Tony Ward, who Big Gay Italian Wedding. Wasn’t that the play bares more than a passing resemblance to the that...? Yeah, it was. I’m told Lance is happy to heroin-chic Balfour. The part you are right about participate since he’s friends with current star is that you may very well have seen him having David Moretti—which is one of those slaps that sex. Way back in 2006, I wrote about Lie With can be heard from Key West to WeHo! Me, a film that featured loads of full-frontal nu- Ashton Kutcher wrote an article for the cur- dity of Balfour and included him getting a blow rent issue of “Harper’s Bazaar” where he gives job from some girl who possibly went on to work out tips for people dating in the digital age. for Vivid Entertainment! Since that 2006 report, Here’s a tip—don’t sleep with a porn star! we obtained the unreleased version, which in- Time for another of Billy’s Holiday Gift Giving cludes even more nudity. So rather than see Sky- Suggestions. This week’s suggestion almost line, go to BillyMasters.com and check him out came from a young man I ran into at H&M on there. the Sunset Strip. This boy was far too cute for When I can come up with any reason to rec- me to even look at, but he struck up a con- ommend Balfour’s body of work, it’s definitely versation with me by complimenting my tan time to end yet another column. And where (look, I’ll take what I can get). When I noted his would you check out Balfour and so much more? gloves, he pointed out that they were “texting At www.BillyMasters.com, of course! I just re- gloves”—where one could extend the thumb alized we only have one more column of fresh and index finger out of the glove to text. This gossip left for the year. And then we look back was a bit too gay—even for West Hollywood. at 2010. What stories do you think will make And yet, I have no problem recommending the the cut? And which celebrity nudes—cut or un- new holiday CD from Wilson Phillips to you! I cut? Let me know your picks by dropping a note love those ladies. You may not know this, but to [email protected] and I promise to get one of the acts I used to open for when I was back to you—perhaps from my cell phone, using on the road was Wilson Phillips. They were the my new boyfriend’s texting gloves! So, until next only group I know of that got a Domino’s deliv- time, remember, one man’s filth is another man’s ery onstage! Of course, that was before Carnie’s bible.) 26 Dec. 15, 2010 WINDY CITY TIMES divisions. Top 20 local 17. Peter Meyer elected to the Gay Softball World Series Hall of Fame. LGBT sporting 18. Ernie Banks represents the Chicago Cubs and rides on the team’s first-ever float in the events of ‘10 annual Chicago Pride Parade. By Ross Forman 19. Softball success: The Green Team Proper- ties/Gotcha Covered Blinds G-Force of Chicago Covering hockey, rowing, softball and many captured the C-Division championship July 3-4 other sports, there are the top local LGBT-relat- in the annual Minuteman Classic gay softball ed sports events of the year. tournament in Boston, Mass. The Sidetrack Blues 1. Brent Sopel and the Stanley Cup join the won a Labor Day weekend tournament in Mon- Chicago Gay Hockey Association (CGHA) float treal. in the annual Chicago Pride Parade. 20. Floor hockey and bowling part ways with 2. Gay Games VIII is held in Cologne, Germa- CMSA. ny, and about 125 Chicagoans participate. 3. The AIDS Foundation of Chicago (AFC) Top 5 LGBT sporting events of 2010: launches Team To End AIDS (T2), an endurance- 1. Kye Allums, 21, a George Washington Uni- training program for marathons and triathlons. versity junior, became the first openly transgen- About 225 T2 runners complete the annual der male basketball player in Division I women’s Bank of America Chicago Marathon in October, basketball. and about $700,000 was raised for AFC by T2 2. Gay umpire Billy Van Rapphorst endures runners. anti-gay tirade from Brent Bowers, the manag- 4. Diversity wins: Club Escape Phoenix won Brent Sopel with the Stanley Cup at the Pride Parade. Photo by Kristin Kowalski er of the Edmonton Capitals in a professional the C2 Division of the annual Chicago Metro- baseball game. Bowers was born in suburban politan Sports Association (CMSA) Open Divi- Oak Lawn, Ill., and resigned from the team days sion softball league. Club Escape is one of the basketball (men’s and women’s). ticipated in volleyball, flag football and bowl- after the much-publicized run-in. only South Side sponsors for a CMSA softball 9. CMSA softball, kickball, men’s dodgeball, ing. Rupert Serrano, who played volleyball. 3. Pro wrestling news: Total Nonstop Action team, and the team is league’s only predomi- open volleyball and beach volleyball hit capac- 14. Chicago Force makes playoffs again; joins (TNA) Wrestling launched the charismatic and nantly African-American team—14 African ity record levels. new league, the Women’s Football Alliance (WFA) controversial character of openly bi-sexual Americans, three whites and one Hispanic. 10. Chicago Smart Aces finished second in C- for the 2011 season. Orlando Jordan. Openly gay wrestler Chris 5. Shawn Albritton elected new president of Division in the annual women’s ASANA Gay Soft- 15. Chicago sends two teams to the annual “Kanyon” Klucsaritis committed suicide in April. CMSA, replacing Marcia Hill. ball World Series, held in Las Vegas. Gay Bowl flag football tournament in Phoenix. TNA Wrestling launches “Eliminate The Hate,” 6. Ted Cappas named president of the five- 11. Three Chicago teams advanced to the The Chicago Freeze (5-1) finished in fifth-place an anti-bully campaign. person executive board for the Chicago or- semifinals at the annual Chicago Pride Bowl (A- in the 26-team event, while the Chicago Blaze 4. International rugby sensation Gareth ganizing committee of the 2011 Gay Softball Division) flag football tournament. (3-3) finished in eighth. Thomas comes out; Sports Illustrated even cov- World Series. 12. Sportsmanship winners: Greg Place was 16. Chicago sends five teams to the annual ers this sports sensation. 7. The Chicago Rowing Union celebrates its named the James R. Brody award-winner for Gay Softball World Series in Columbus, Ohio, 5. Indiana University makes histor by hosting fifth anniversary with trophies: CRU’s competi- CMSA’s open division softball; he plays for the including the city’s first representative in years LGBT Day at an October football game against tive team won first-place in June at a regatta in Hamburger Mary’s Chargers and also coaches a in the top-tiered A-Division. No Chicago team Northwestern. Grand Rapids, Mich. The group also shined at D2 team. Bobby Hull won the sportsmanship finished among the top four in any of the four an October event in Rockford, Ill. award for men’s flag football. Pat Krug won the 8. New CMSA leagues launched: Women’s fall Angie Oldham Award for women’s flag football. FEMALE ATHLETE softball, women’s-only soccer (spring and fall), 13. Deaths: Rich Essig, a 2008 inductee into OF THE YEAR an over-50 (predominantly male) softball, and the CMSA Hall of Fame. Jamie Moravec, who par- Sam Hamilton: In a league Obama and the Gays of her own A POLITICAL MARRIAGE By Ross Forman Sam Hamilton had a successful 2010 on the The new book by Tracy Baim sporting fields of play—and an even better year off the fields. She helped start the new women’s basketball and soccer leagues for the Chicago Met- ropolitan Sports Association (CMSA). “Sam has been instrumental in the growth Sam Hamilton. Available on Amazon.com and Amazon Kindle of women’s sports within CMSA,” said former tinyurl.com/ObamaGayBook and http://tinyurl.com/ObamaGayKindle CMSA president Marcia Hill. “Sam has been a player, coach, manager, member of the soft- Hamilton is, however, taking a step back from Also available at ball board, commissioner for both dodgeball CMSA sports in 2011 to spend more time devot- Women & Children First Bookstore and women’s soccer, and has also stepped up ed to her fine art photography (http://www. (5233 N. Clark, Chicago) to help officiate flag football. She has taken SamHamiltonPhotography.com). numerous photos and videos of CMSA activi- Unabridged Books “Sam has really gone above and beyond what 570 ties and several years ago she put together a CMSA expects from a volunteer,” Hill said. (3251 N. Broadway, Chicago) 20-minute video of the dodgeball season for Hamilton, four years ago, was the person pages all to view at the season ending party. who got the ball rolling and founded the wom- “She also has helped take equipment back en’s dodgeball league. She also did the legwork and forth to various fields. She is one of the to get the CMSA entry into last summer’s Pride first managers who welcome ‘orphans’ to her Parade. team, to make women feel welcome to CMSA Hamilton also is coordinating the CMSA 140 and Chicago gay sports, which enables them Women’s Social, set for Joe’s Bar on Saturday, to meet other people and play more sports.” Jan. 22, 2011 (7-10 p.m.). photos Hamilton, 38, lives in Chicago’s Portage Park neighborhood, and is single. She played flag More Sam Hamilton: and images football, softball and soccer in 2010—and —Favorite pro sports: Football and base- was named the 2010 Chicago Female Athlete ball of the Year in a poll of local athletes and of- —Favorite pro teams: Chicago Bears and ficials. Chicago White Sox “Most of my [2010] competitive teams usu- —Favorite pro athletes: Devin Hester and ally are the top 3 or 4 in the regular season but Peyton Manning did not win a championship,” said Hamilton, —In high school: She competed in cross who tabbed flag football as her best sport. country, volleyball and basketball. Her favorite sports are flag football and —LGBT sporting goal for 2011: “Watching softball. my teammate play.” “This year was a lot of work managing 11 Read next week’s issue to find out the male www.ObamaAndTheGays.com teams and starting CMSA women’s soccer and athlete of the year. basketball,” she said. WINDY CITY TIMES Dec. 15, 2010 27 CONNEXIONS MAKE IT YOUR BUSINESS The Law Offices of THE Ray J. Koenig III and Clark Hill PLC Ray is a legal authority on all of his Alexander Weaver EVERYDAY practice areas, which include probate, trusts, guardianship, estate planning, PSYCHIC and elder law, including the litigation 312-588-5005 by Delphina of those areas. He is a longtime advocate for and member of the email: [email protected] LGBT community, and is involved in Do I have guides? several charitable groups, community associations, and professional A Full Service organizations. Ray is a member of Clark Hill PLC, a full-service One of my readers wants to know if she has guides, law ﬁrm consisting of a diverse team of attorneys and Law Firm and if so, how can she get in touch with them. I am professionals committed to our clients and our communities. happy to report that the ability to contact spirit guides for the Community Tel: 312.985.5938 | Fax: 312.985.5985 is available to all of us. We all have some form of a [email protected] | clarkhill.com since 1988 spiritual guide. Spirit guides are often archetypical. They are symbolic and usually representative of something else. Some peo- 410 S. 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