THE VOICE OF CHICAGO’S GAY, LESBIAN, BI AND TRANS COMMUNITY SINCE 1985 January 16, 2008 • vol 23 no 18 WINTER THEATER Soldier Comes Out PREVIEW
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From left: Songs for a New World; Blooming Flow- ers in Weeds; Coffee Girl; The Day on Which a Man Dies; and The Little Dog Laughed. Background: The Chicago Sinfonietta with Deeply Rooted Dance Theater in a tribute to Martin Luther King, Jr.
Candidates Face Off page 6 Bailiwick’s Bathhouse Debates in NYC; Fight to Is Chicago Next? Stay Alive By AMY WOOTEN by Andrew Davis While New York City’s health department debates whether or not it will regulate the city’s bath- Given the steady streams of plaudits (including houses and sex clubs, local health officials do over 150 Jeff Committee citations, recommenda- not think Chicago will return to the great bath- tions and nominations), hit productions (such house debates of the past. Jack as Jeffrey, Jerry Springer: The Opera and the “We’ve been in this epidemic for 25 years now, Barenaked Lads series) and seemingly successful and the epidemic has clearly evolved over time, Mackenroth: fundraisers associated with Bailiwick Repertory and I think our responses have evolved over since its 1982 inception, one would expect the time, also,” said Chris Brown, assistant com- Life Off the company to be extremely financially successful. missioner of the STD/HIV/AIDS division of the However, one would be wrong, according to Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH). ‘Runway’ page 20 Bailiwick’s founder and artistic director, David David Zak. Photo by Tracy Baim “We’ve learned a lot from history, and in Chi- Zak. cago, we’re putting a lot of energy into working Zak said that the financial problems have snow- with our partners to do what we can to reduce balled in “the past 12 months.” He said that the lesbian plays, and we’ve found that audiences the transmission of HIV and the transmission of perception was that things were going smoothly aren’t coming for those—and that’s true across sexually transmitted diseases that are associ- all along. “Our sense was that everyone thought the country.” ated with the bathhouses.” nightspots we were fine. [Even] the foundation community Zak also said that technology is responsible “I don’t see the ‘80s repeating themselves,” thought we were fine.” for the financial hit Bailiwick has taken. “It’s Brown continued.“I think we’ve evolved.” n a cultural change,” he said. “People have their Part of the problem, Zak told Windy City Times, Gay City News reported that a leaked memo pick it up is the burgeoning Broadway in Chicago series TiVos and Netflix, so they have their neverend- from New York City’s health department indicates take it home that takes place downtown. “We sent a fund- ing supply at home of gay and lesbian television health officials are reconsidering the city’s poli- raising letter to our people that talked about programming. In the old days, our subscribers cies regarding bathhouses and sex clubs. More the change in the marketplace,” he said. “It’s would announce a new show and people would recent reports indicate that the area’s health of- great that people are going to Altar Boyz, Jersey trot out to see [it], and then with Broadway, ev- ficials, due to increasing new HIV infections and Boys and all these other ‘Boys’ that are down erything assimilated; I mean, Hairspray is about syphilis rates, are considering shutting down there, but it’s expensive. If people spend $80 as gay as it gets. So it’s an interesting cultural such venues. for Wicked or $100 for Jersey Boys, [the effect] change, where young people don’t seem to be “We’ve been funding a lot of prevention ef- is what a lot of the smaller theaters are feeling. going to gay theaters; young people don’t seem forts in the LGBT community for a long time www.WindyCityQueercast.com People will see the big stuff like Jerry Springer, Turn to page 10 Turn to page 4 but we’ve done workshops and smaller gay and www.WindyCityMediaGroup.com 2 January 16, 2008 “A suspenseful mystery…. keeps the audience guessing.”—The Reader G r u s h o u i s L t e p h n S a n d o c k R i m T
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index We can help you News Soldier comes out 4 prepare for tomorrow Bathhouse debate 4 today. Gay man missing 4 Memories of Lisa Tonna 5 Madeleine Albright in Chicago 5 Candidates square off 6 National roundup 7 Local news 7 Clinton, McCain win in N.H. 7 Views: Baim, Monroe 8 World news 9 The Little Dog Laughed (above) is just Quotelines 9 one of many productions profiled in this week’s winter theater special. See WINTER THEATER GUIDE page 12. Bailiwick’s fight 10 Photo by Michael Brosilow 7 to Applaud 12 6 to Shout ‘Out’ 12 6 to Sing 13
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GIVING GOOD FACE Sal-E and JoJo Baby are featured in Renard Colbert’s new photogra- phy exhibition “Getting Into Face,” at Gallery 203. nightspotsn photo by colbertimages.com 4 January 16, 2008 rogatory; the added stress began to affect his job performance. That is when Manzella went to Gay Man Missing his supervisor and explained the situation. Many of his coworkers were supportive, they would go Since August out to dinner with Manzella and his boyfriend. By ANDREW DAVIS After a three-week investigation, his battal- ion commander said they “had found no proof of Evanston police said that they still are not sure his homosexuality.” This conclusion was reached of the whereabouts of a gay man who has been after Manzella had acknowledged that he is gay missing for several months. and had shown them pictures and video of he Rob Stone, 43, was reported missing last Au- and his boyfriend kissing. gust by his roommate, Susan Polzak. According The division was redeployed to Iraq in October to an e-mail she recently sent to Windy City 2006. He ended up serving much of that second Times. Stone “is a waiter and was looking for tour in medical liaison position in Kuwait, fill- work.” She added that he goes by the nick- ing a position generally taken by a person three names “Stone,” “Satan” and “Uncle Satan.” ranks higher. “All of my colleagues knew I was A missing persons report lists Stone’s stats as a six-foot-tall white male who weighed gay, and it made no difference.” Rob Stone. Manzella taped his interview with 60 Minutes about 150 pounds, with brown hair and eyes. in Kuwait and told his commanders about it im- The report also stated that Stone “was last contact” with Stone Oct. 18, 2007; however, Sgt. Darren Manzella. Photo by Bob Roehr mediate prior to the program airing. His section seen on 8-6-07 when he left 1900 Seward with commander said, “’Wow, you can’t go back now.’ his personal belongings and has had past al- no one knows his present location. “I would He stood up and wished me the best of luck, say- cohol addiction problems. Stone is known to just like to know where he is so his family will ing it is unfortunate that policies like this are in frequent Bar Louie, Prairie Moon and the Keg know that he is alright,” Kohl said. Anyone with relevant information should call Manzella place.” in Evanston, but has not been seen there in The sergeant returned to the U.S. just before weeks.” the Evanston Police Department at 847-866- Demonstrates Christmas and spent the holidays with his fam- Det. Jason Kohl of the Evanston Police De- 5000. ily in upstate New York. He has heard nothing partment said that Chicago police “were in Futility of DADT from his superiors and will return to Ft. Hood By Bob Roehr shortly. Aubrey Sarvis, executive director of SLDN, said Gov. notes LGBT City offers free The arbitrary and absurd nature of the antigay there has been “a clear and undeniable shift in statute; groups kits to kick the habit military policy known as “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” attitudes regarding DADT and the issue of open launch program A local coalition of health advocates and pro- is exemplified by Sgt. Darren Manzella. Even af- and honest service in our military.” Polling data Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich marked the two- viders, Chicago Second Wind, recently started ter he told his Army commanders, and the nation indicates that the American public overwhelm- year anniversary of the Illinois Human Rights distributing free “Quit Kits” to help individuals as a whole in a Dec. 16 interview on the CBS ing supports repeal. Act, which protects Illinoisans from sexual-ori- who would like to quit smoking. News program 60 Minutes, that he is openly gay, “Within the military, troops and commands in- entation and gender-identity discrimination. The kits are available at multiple distribution he continues to serve in the military. creasingly are welcoming and supporting their “Discrimination of any kind is unacceptable. centers until supplies last. Distribution centers Manzella enlisted in the Army after graduat- gay colleagues.” He said SLDN is aware of at ... We will continue our efforts to ensure fair- within the LGBT community include the Brown ing from college in 2002, in part because of the least 500 soldiers who are serving openly today. ness and equality in Illinois,” Blagojevich said Elephant Resale Shop, 5404 N. Clark; Affinity financial incentives that helped with his educa- “Commands do not want to discharge qualified in a statement. Community Services, 5650 S. Woodlawn; Cen- tion loans. His work though college as a psychi- troops simply because they are gay.” In addition, The Illinois Department of Hu- ter on Halsted, 3656 N. Halsted; and Howard atric counselor made him a perfect fit to become “It is time to officially give commands the man Rights (IDHR), which enforces the act, Brown Health Center, 4025 N. Sheridan. a medic. After additional training in treating authority to retain troops and end the unneces- will launch an awareness campaign with Equal- The kits include tips, support information, battlefield wounds, he was assigned to the 1st sary, arbitrary enforcement of the congressional ity Illinois and Lambda Legal to ensure LGBT and nicotine replacement samples donated by Cavalry Division at Ft. Hood, the sprawling base gay ban.” Sarvis called on Congress to repeal communities know about the law and its pro- the Chicago Department of Public Health. in Texas. DADT. tections. The three organizations will jointly In addition to distributing the kits, the Re- The unit deployed to Iraq in 2004, where he The Democrats winning control of both houses conduct training seminars specifically for the spiratory Health Association of Metropolitan participated in more than a hundred combat pa- of Congress in 2006 prompted SLDN to recon- LGBT community statewide, and will include in- Chicago is holding a free seven-week smoking trols, performing a variety of medical services sider its strategy of ending the ban. It began to formation and links of each others’ Web sites. cessation class starting Thurs., Jan. 24. Call for US and Iraq military personnel and civilians, think that working through Congress would be Since the law went into effect Jan. 1, 2006, 312-243-2000 or log onto www.lungchicago. Manzella said at a January 8 news conference faster than working through the courts. nearly 200 charges have been filed with the org. at the National Press Club. He received glowing But the leading proponent of repeal legisla- IDHR. For more info or complaint forms, visit performance reviews and advanced steadily in tion in the House retired and that meant that www.state.il.us/dhr or call 312-814-6200. grade. the anticipated hearing on the legislation did He reenlisted for another six years, in February not occur last year. Recruitment of the right co- 2005, while he was still in Iraq. When asked why sponsors in the Senate has delayed introduction trol, CDPH and community organizations like he said, “I not only loved my job, I was good at of the measure in that chamber. DEBATE from cover Howard Brown and Test Positive Aware Net- my job. To know that people are still alive be- Meanwhile, legal wheels continue to turn in work. now,” Brown said. A lot of work has been done cause of you, it was very intoxicating. Families federal courthouses in Boston and Los Angeles; According to Nanette Benbow, director of in the past year and a half, Brown said, specifi- still have their sons or their daughters. I was decisions on those pending challenges could CDPH’s Office of HIV/AIDS Surveillance, it is cally dealing with transmission at venues such very good at my job. I didn’t see any reasons not come at any time. It would take an additional too early to look at new infection rates among as bathhouses. to reenlist.” 3-5 years for the parties to carry the appeals men who have sex with men (MSM) during The local health department is actively in- Manzella and his 1st Cavalry unit rotated back process forward through the Supreme Court. 2007 because only about half of the report- volved in building partnerships with area ven- to Ft. Hood in March 2005. In August 2006, “I The wild card in both processes is the White ing has been finished. However, since HIV re- ues in prevention efforts. For example, CDPH started receiving emails and phone calls threat- House. The new president might decide to back porting began in 1999, HIV infections among is a partner of the Chicago Task Force on LGBT ening that I was under investigation for being legislation lifting the ban, or if a favorable court MSM peaked at 994 in 2002. Since then, HIV Substance Use and Abuse (formerly the Chica- gay.” He contacted the Servicemembers Legal ruling comes down, decide not to appeal it to a infections among MSM have declined, with 770 go Crystal Meth Task Force). In Chicago, venues Defense Network (SLDN), which has advised him higher level. reported in 2005 and 766 in 2006. such as Steamworks have positive relationships ever since. with agencies such as Centers for Disease Con- The threats increased and became more de-
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Photo By AMY WOOTEN by Tracy Baim The head of Lambda Legal’s national organiza- tion paid the Windy City a visit Jan. 8 to discuss the recent progress for LGBT people made in the courtrooms in the Midwest and beyond this past year. Reflections on Lambda Legal Executive Director Kevin Cath- cart spoke at the law firm of Kirkland & Ellis, 200 Lisa Tonna E. Randolph, for an informal breakfast and chat As reported last week in Windy City Times, with local lawyers. Cathcart also touched on Lisa Tonna, an anti-tobacco advocate who was a emerging trends across the United States, and former manager of the Center on Halsted’s Anti- made some predictions about what the future Violence Project and interim managing director holds. of the Lesbian Community Care Project (LCCP), Cathcart told the audience that a lot of work passed away Jan. 8 after an almost year-long would need to be done in order to undo all of the battle with cancer. She was 38. laws passed around the United States. Although Vernita Gray, a good friend of Tonna, e-mailed some battles can be won in the courtroom, he her memories to Windy City Times: “Lisa was predicts that a lot of victories will have to occur Albright Signs ‘Memo’ very special to me. We partied together as she, through the political process. Avis and I were all friends. We worked together Last week, former U.S. Secretary of State Madeleine Albright made several appearances when she was at Horizons, we did anti-violence around Chicago, including one Jan. 10 at Borders, 150 N. State, where she signed copies of Read much more about Cathcart’s talk at her latest book, Memo to the President Elect. In the book, Albright offers ideas about how work together. By coincidence, Lisa and I ended www.WindyCityMediaGroup.com. up on the same flight to Portland, [Ore.,] where the next commander-in-chief should deal with the challenges he or she will face. Photo by we went to Creating Change together. Each year Kat Fitzgerald; see more at www.MysticImagesPhotography.com she and Avis would do this pancake party in the spring that was always a riot. I never partici- pated in the pancake race, but I would drink, Portobello Road Market eat, and laughed at the others. Lisa was a bright light in our community. She was looking forward to having a child, and had just set up her own practice. What a beautiful person she was—a real loving, hippie-spirited, passionate woman, DoDo LondonLondon and I loved her piercings.” In a mass e-mail, LCCP Director Catherine Jefcoat said, in part, that “[a]s a person, Lisa was inspirational. She was empathic and warm, likelike LucyLucy bringing a critical eye and tender heart to ev- erything she did. She asked difficult questions To find out where I shop go to in the most loving ways—holding everyone with grace and accountability. ... She will truly be www.visitlondon.com/rainbow missed.” Center on Halsted Executive Director Modesto “Tico” Valle e-mailed this statement: “Our com- munity has suffered a great loss. Lisa gave a voice to those who have been mistreated and worked to ensure no one would be silenced. Her passion for the Anti-Violence Project and desire to create safe and healthy lives for those she met along her journey will never be forgotten. We will miss her laughter and joy. Her partner Avis and her family are in our thoughts.” A celebration of Lisa’s life was held Sat., Jan. 12, at the University of Illinois at Chicago’s Stu- dent Services Building, 1200 W. Harrison. An- other friend of Tonna, Nancy J. Powell, e-mailed that “[t]he service was very nice, and the turn- out was amazing. The effect that Lisa had on individuals and the community was huge, and many had a chance to get up and speak, to say just that.” Powell added that Ann Sather Restau- rant donated food and Sidetrack donated water, with leftover items going to the Pacific Garden Mission. Tonna is survived by her mother, Yvonne; a brother, Adrian; a sister, Celia; and her partner, Avis Jamison, as well as many friends. Jenkins Memorial Jan. 21 A memorial will be held for Gaston Justice Jenkins—a gay veteran known to friends and family as “David”—at Center on Halsted, 3656 N. Halsted, on Mon., Jan. 21, at 5:30 p.m. Jenkins served 13 years on active duty as a pi- lot in the U.S. Navy at bases and on aircraft car- riers around the world. He was among the elite pilots stationed at Guantanamo immediately af- ter the Cuban missile crisis in 1962. For 16 years, Jenkins was also the partner of local philanthropist Richard Turner. Turner re- cently told Windy City Times that Jenkins, who had Parkinson’s disease, “was the kindest guy in the world. David didn’t like the limitations in his life, but he never once complained.” 6 January 16, 2008 ELECTION ‘08
turn it over to the developer, they need to first offer it to the tenants association. They are giv- Richard Bradley en a one-year opportunity in order to organize BY AMY WOOTEN to buy it back at a fair market value for the area. Through a lot of the city and state programs that Democratic candidate Rich Bradley is displeased are out there, we’ve been able to salvage a few with what he views as the lack of compromise of these senior buildings. and direction in Springfield, and wants to con- …We need rental space in this area because tinue serving his community as senator of the everything has gone condo, like Wicker Park and 20th District. Iris Martinez. Bucktown. I think Logan Square is one of those For the past 11 years, Bradley has served as very few wonderful places that people can live state representative of the 40th District. But in where rental is still available. One of my jobs when lesbian activist Deb Mell, daughter of Iris Martinez is to make sure we can find those resources to longtime Alderman Dick Mell, announced she Richard Bradley. keep that conversion from happening. would run for Bradley’s seat, the legislator made BY AMY WOOTEN the decision to run for senator. The 20th District WCT: Let’s go back to healthcare, which is bad. Whatever they may be, we need everybody includes areas such as Portage Park and Logan clearly a large issue for you. The 20th Dis- who has a stake [to get involved] and we need Since 2003, State Sen. Iris Martinez has fought Square. trict is largely Hispanic, and that community education. for the needs of those in the 20th District, work- Some of the key legislation Bradley worked on has been disproportionately impacted by WCT: Have you had any experience yet work- ing on issues close to her heart, such as women’s in the legislature last year includes relief from HIV/AIDS. Tell me a little bit about the work ing with or on behalf of the LGBT community, healthcare and affordable housing. high electricity bills and property taxes. In the you’ve done for that community. and where do you stand on some issues? Martinez was the first Hispanic woman elected past, he worked to bring anti-crime programs to IM: I’ve participated in and co-sponsored bills RB: I’m for civil unions. I’m for that, I would to the Illinois Senate, and holds a leadership the neighborhoods he serves, among other is- that deal with HIV programs out there, so we be in favor of that and I would vote for that. role as Assistant Majority Leader, where she sues. can continue to put more resources in. When it My voting record of the past has been support- works alongside Senate President Emil Jones. Windy City Times talked to Bradley about the comes to the budget, part of my participation is ive and I will continue to do that. It’s been a She is seeking re-election because she wants changes he would like to bring to Springfield as to watch the budget, make sure that HIV hous- learning curve for society. I think sometimes to continue fighting for those who need it the a senator. most. ing is available and there is money for it. Right controversial issues have a personal, social and Windy City Times: Let’s start out by discuss- Martinez has focused largely on legislation now, one of the things that I was involved in religious makeup, and there’s a lot in it. But I’ve ing some of the changes you would like to see that provides affordable housing for seniors and was making sure that, with the comprehensive seen that society, even legislators, over time, in the 20th District. What are some of the key low-income families, daycare and healthcare. She housing plan that takes effect next year, what can change their mind or embrace it more. Or issues that you’d like to continue to tackle as worked to ensure agencies in her area, such as we’re making sure is there is enough dollars that maybe they don’t fear that anymore. a senator? is going to supportive housing for people living WCT: A while back, Deb Mell announced her the AIDS organization Children’s Place, received Richard Bradley: I think our government has with HIV/AIDS. It’s a huge issue. run for the 40th District seat, which you have enough funding to continue providing much- been paralyzed under the leadership of the gov- When it comes to housing, that is my number held since 1997. Was it completely your deci- needed programming, and has also focused on ernor and, frankly, under President Emil Jones one priority. Through the housing plan that now sion to step aside and let her do her thing? women’s issues. and his leadership, which is [represented by] my exists, we are making sure that … there is a Was running for Senate something that you WCT: How do you think you’ve most im- opponent [Iris Martinez]. substantial amount of money that is geared to- had thought about before? proved the lives of those in your district? I think that with the last budget year, the wards housing, and making sure there is housing RB: It was under consideration. I was kind of IM: There are many things going on within governor created a paralysis of government, and for those with HIV for the HIV residents I have faced with three choices: run for re-election as the district, as well as the whole state of Il- cut local programs. Area schools have had their out there, and all over. I told people, housing a representative, run for Senate or retire. They linois. We have social services that got cut on pre- and after-school programs cut. The Cease- doesn’t just deal with poor people. It needs to were complex, but those are the three decisions a federal level. When you talk about health is- Fire program [was cut]; violence protection was deal creating affordable housing in all areas for that me and my family faced. As you may realize, sues, for instance, mandating these insurance cut. A theme of change is what I would bring to middle- to low-income families. That is the bot- a district is made up of wards of alderman and companies for cancer testing, mammograms, the Senate. tom line. … To me it’s making sure that as we committeemen who work that area. I evaluated ovarian cancer—there are a lot of things. We’re In an orderly fashion we should look at these are creating more housing dollars, that afford- my chances, and understood that Alderman Dick talking about making sure with insurance com- complex issues and get them negotiated and re- ability is included in that, which includes HIV Mell is very popular in his area, and has done panies those kinds of mandates are important. solved on time. Then, the issues are resolved supportive housing. some great things in his community. For him to We can do a lot of preventative care early on one by one, if we could agree to disagree. before we spend so much money on the after- WCT: What are some key issues you think have the goal to get his daughter elected made WCT: The 20th District is largely Hispanic, the-fact. With women, it’s pretty fatal. We’re need to be tackled in Springfield if you are all the sense to me. I accepted that. I accepted and the Hispanic community has been dispro- talking about breast exams and cervical tests. re-elected to office? that she’s worked on issues in your community, portionately impacted by the HIV crisis. What It’s important we mandate those kinds of tests IM: The CTA is a huge issue for me. I have the and has been very active. I didn’t look at it as are your thoughts on ways to tackle the crisis be done. It’s an important part of insurance cov- Blue Line right here. But we have to look at it an end of the line. I could have. I could have within Illinois? long-term. We have to look at long-term solu- retired. I firmly believe in working with Alder- erage. We’re talking about a very serious illness RB: We really need to look at education as the tions, … so there is no Doomsday. The CTA and man Mell and Deb Mell. I think I’ll continue to or fatality. That’s one of the things I’ve worked key component, and to start at an early age. RTA need to get their act together. … Is it a provide excellent service and do some good work very hard on. We can just educate the young adults on how General Assembly issue? Not entirely. Local gov- for the community as senator. When it comes to trying to find more afford- to conduct themselves in a safe manner. I think ernment has to be involved, especially Chicago, See www.bradleyforsenate.org. able daycare, I put in $2 million in a project in that probably there isn’t a huge cost to that, with what is going on in Springfield. …It is a lo- Read the entire Richard Bradley interview the 33rd Ward called the Concordia Community and it’s frustrating that we don’t invest more, cal, state and federal issue, a combination of all online at www.WindyCityMediaGroup.com. Center [which provides daycare and programs for because it isn’t a huge amount of funding, but senior citizens]. It serves low-income families, three. People can’t continue to blame the legis- lature. Let’s be fair here. … I want to look at the we could see results. working families. I think local groups need to do everything WCT: People who need it the most. whole picture of everything combined. Not one government is only responsible. We have to find that they can in getting out the word, message IM: Right. …It’s very important we have day- and latest statistics, whether those are good or care available for working moms. It’s very impor- a solution, and a long-term solution, together. tant to me. I was a single mom myself. I always WCT: Besides having been in a leadership say that it’s important that the experiences I role, what can you bring to the table your op- had—trying to find affordable housing, trying to ponents can’t? find affordable daycare, bringing up my daughter IM: First of all, I’m a woman. We’re the care- on my own—were very important things for me givers of everything. I look at my district as my to bring up when I came to the Senate. Those family. I want to take care of my district like my are experiences you cannot understand—unless family. I don’t think the two male opponents can you experienced them yourself. [My focus is on] ever think like that and look at it the way I look the quality of life for people in my district, es- at it. I have 20 years of experience in my dis- trict. I have 20 years of public service, working pecially women, because we are the caregivers. 1508 W. JARVIS ST, CHICAGO, IL 60626 We do it all. with the city, the homeless, domestic violence. I’ve worked in so many capacities the years I’ve ROGERS PARK • JARVIS & N. GREENVIEW • RED LINE JARVIS EL STOP WCT: The 20th District is really diverse. You worked for the city. I bring that experience. TEL 773 508 5565 don’t want to push people out. See www.friendsofirisymartinez.com. IM: Exactly, and some of these big buildings Read the entire Iris Martinez interview on- SPECIALTY WINE & BEER LIST - FULL BAR - DRINK SPECIALS were subsidized through the federal govern- line at www.WindyCityMediaGroup.com. WINE & BEER TASTINGS ment—HUD [Housing and Urban Development] buildings. A lot of those buildings were 20 and OUTDOOR SEATING - CARRY OUT 30 years in the making, and now a lot of those SUNDAY BRUNCH buildings are beginning to end their contracts. HOURS TUES-SAT 5 PM-12 AM, SUN 11 AM-10 PM, CLOSED MONDAYS …. You have a lot of people living in those, es- WEB www.gruppodiamici.com pecially these subsidized buildings. In order to January 16, 2008 7 Iranian Queer Organization founder Arsham Parsi he has used the constituency line frequently in NATIONAL and Irshad Manji, among others, will be present Clinton, McCain his speeches, he does not always include the ref- for various events. Equality Forum 2008 will be erence to gays and lesbians. Prevail in N.H. Gays were used in some negative campaign- held April 28 to May 4. See www.equalityforum. By Lisa Keen ROUNDUP com for more information. ing, too. The Concord Monitor reported Tuesday BY AMY WOOTEN Keen News Service The Human Rights Campaign released the that the Romney campaign said many of its sup- porters received phone calls on primary day tell- 2008 “Best Places to Work for GLBT Equality.” From anonymous phone calls and flyers to public Lambda Legal, which won the 2006 New Jer- ing them that Romney supports same-sex mar- This year, 195 major U.S. companies, an un- speeches and debates on the editorial pages of sey Supreme Court ruling that said same-sex riage and gays being allowed in the Boy Scouts. precedented number, made the list for scor- newspapers, gay issues were heavily in the news couples must have the same rights as married According to the campaign, the callers claimed ing 100 percent on HRC Foundation’s Corporate as New Hampshire held the nation’s first primary couples, is calling on the state’s legislature to to be from the Log Cabin Republicans, a national Equality Index. Last year, 138 made the cut. See of the 2008 presidential campaign Tuesday. John amend its civil unions law in order to provide gay Republican organization, and claimed that the complete list at www.hrc.org/placestowork. McCain took the Republican lead, but the big full marriage equality, according to 365gay. the group was endorsing Romney. The New York Times recently reported that news of the day was Democrats taking 55 per- com. “Civil unions label same-sex couples as dif- A Romney spokesperson called the calls “com- rates of new infection of HIV have been on cent of the record turnout and the surprise vic- ferent and inferior and no amount of tinkering pletely false.” the rise among New York City’s young gay tory of Democrat Hillary Clinton, whom pundits with the rules and benefits can erase that stain Log Cabin has not endorsed Romney and, in men. The state health department’s recent sta- had widely predicted was flailing. of inequality,” Lambda Legal Executive Director fact, has aired radio and television ads oppos- tistics show that while new infection rates are Openly gay State Rep. Jim Splaine said Clinton Kevin Cathcart wrote in a letter to the legisla- ing only him among the Republican candidates. falling on most communities, young gay men of “did something in the last two to three days I ture and Gov. Jon S. Corzine. Its ad in New Hampshire focused on his posi- all demographics aren’t following that trend. Ac- have been urging her to do—let Hillary be Hil- A group of conservative religious leaders re- tions concerning taxes. And Log Cabin National cording to Gaywired.com, researchers attribute lary.” cently formed a corporation in hopes of cre- President Patrick Sammon said the group “had the rise in rates to drug use and other factors. While Splaine supported Clinton, the state’s ating a shareholder revolt against Microsoft nothing to do” with the phone calls. other two openly gay representatives were split because of its support of gay rights, reported In a joint release, Equality California (EQCA), Romney is a well-known opponent of same-sex on the other two top polling candidates. Ed 365gay.com. The group, AGN Financial, is led by the Gay-Straight Alliance Network (GSA Net- marriage, as are all the Republican candidates. Butler supported Barack Obama; Mo Baxley sup- work), Lambda Legal, the National Center for Although the Romney campaign said the claims Rev. Ken Hutcherson of Washington. The group ported John Edwards. Lesbian Rights (NCLR) and the Transgender Law were false, he did, in fact, say, in 1994, “I sup- just launched a campaign in hopes of getting That division appeared to be true for gays Center (TLC) responded to the failure of a sig- port the right of the Boy Scouts of America to enough Microsoft shares donated to it in order in both Iowa and New Hampshire. But, Clin- nature drive to overturn the California Stu- decide what it wants to do on that issue. I feel to vote at the company’s next annual meeting. ton has enjoyed the lion’s share of big-name dent Civil Rights Act, SB 777, which went into that all people should be allowed to participate The man who filed a federal lawsuit claim- gay endorsements—from Reps. Barney Frank effect Jan. 1. Opponents of the measure needed in the Boy Scouts regardless of their sexual ori- ing that he failed the Massachusetts bar exam and Tammy Baldwin to filmmaker Bruce Cohen, 433,000 signatures, and collected only 350,000. entation.” Romney was on the national execu- because he refused to answer a gay marriage tennis legend Billie Jean King, Illinois Human NCLR Legal Director Shannon Minter said that tive board of the BSA at the time. question has apologized, according to the Asso- Rights Director Rocco Claps and California State “[t]he opponents of SB 777 failed to gather The claim about Romney supporting gays in ciated Press. Stephen Dunne apologized in a let- Senator Sheila Kuehl. enough signatures because the vast majority of the Boy Scouts also showed up on a flyer that ter that was published in Boston’s weekly LGBT Her victory over Iowa winner Obama was espe- Californians strongly support safety and equal- was distributed last Sunday in the parking lot newspaper, Bay Windows, calling his lawsuit cially big news Tuesday night because polls had ity.” of a Catholic church in Manchester, according to “misguided.” He dismissed the suit in October. piled up to predict that New Hampshire would Theresa Sparks, the transgender head of the the Monitor. The Web site said the flyer indi- An anti-gay marriage group recently be a repeat of her Jan. 3 third-place finish be- San Francisco Police Commission, has returned cated it was “prepared by a concerned citizen” emerged in Vermont, launching a Web-based hind John Edwards. But large numbers of vot- and was used to compare Romney unfavorably to campaign to counter the commission appointed the Equality Award she received from the Hu- ers were undecided right down to the wire and McCain. The McCain campaign said it had noth- by the state charged with analyzing whether or man Rights Campaign (HRC) in 2004, accord- apparently many of them—especially women— ing to do with the flyer. not marriage rights should be granted to same- ing to the Bay Area Reporter. Sparks returned cast their ballots for Clinton. The Human Rights Campaign was also involved sex couples. The group is called the Vermont the award during a Jan. 5 meeting between HRC “She earned this victory. I am thrilled for her. in The Granite State, opening a field office in President Joe Solmonese and members of the lo- And she will make a great president,” said Hilary Marriage Advisory Council, reported The Advo- Manchester and hiring a full-time staffer to help cal trans community, saying that the honor “no Rosen, a longtime gay Democratic activist and cate. The state-appointed panel will release its mobilize LGBT voters. longer symbolized equality for” her. Clinton supporter. findings to lawmakers in April. Civil unions were heavily in the news in New Clinton won 39 percent of the votes for Demo- The focus of Philadelphia’s Equality Forum Hampshire just as national attention was shift- crats in the primary, followed by Obama with 36 2008 will be “Gays and Lesbians in the Muslim ing there from the Iowa caucuses Jan. 3. Just percent, Edwards with 17 percent, Bill Richard- World,” according to organizers of the annual two days earlier, the state’s new civil-unions law son with 5 percent and 3 percent for the oth- event. International journalist Michael Loungo, had gone into effect and front page photos of ers. gay couples kissing and stories of their obtain- In Republican voting, McCain topped the field ing the first civil-union licenses were showing with 37 percent, followed by Mitt Romney with Local News Feigenholtz files HIV up in papers around the state. Editorial pages 32 percent, Mike Huckabee with 11 percent, were full of letters to the editor commenting on notification repeal bill Rudy Giuliani with 9 percent, Ron Paul with 8 the news. National Teen State Rep. Sara Feigenholtz, D-Chicago, has percent and 3 percent for the others. © 2008 - Keen News Service. All rights re- filed a bill (HB 4314) to repeal the exisiting Obama was the only candidate to speak posi- Test Day observed served. This material may not be broadcast, HIV/AIDS principal notification law. tively of gay people during the last days of cam- in Chicago republished, redistributed, or rewritten in a An Illinois law, passed in 1987, requires the paigning in New Hampshire. At a rally in Man- Chicago teens were the targets of an HIV/ blog or other venue without permission from names of children with HIV to be reported to chester on Monday night, he said, as president, AIDS educational outreach program that took Keen News Service. (Contact LisaKeen@aol. school principals. Thirty-six states do not stat- he would represent a number of constituency place Jan. 5, a date organizations called Na- utorily address disclosure of a student’s HIV groups, including “gays and lesbians.” Although com) tional Teen Test Day. status. On that date, an event sponsored by the Met- Advocates crusading against the statute are 8]Xmci_bck ropolitan Area Group for Igniting Civilizations, concerned that, among other things, the law Inc. (MAGIC) and the National Teen Test Day may have been driven more by hysteria than by Foundation received the support of politicians a real need to protect the public health. such as Congressmen Danny K. Davis and Chi- On Nov. 9, 2007, Feigenholtz participated cago Mayor Richard Daley, according to a press in a forum, hosted by the Chicago-based child release from Miles Media & Marketing. welfare agency The Children’s Place Associa- WUbdfcj]XY""" Over 500 youths and adults were tested for tion, that centered on HIV/AIDS and Illinois 7caa]haYbh7YfYacb]YgCb!G]hY HIV and enjoyed a concert at the Harold Wash- adolescents. Prior to the forum, she told Windy ington Cultural Center, 4701 S. Martin Luther City Times that she was “alarmed” when the 7cfdcfUhY9jYbhg 5iWh]cbg5fh @UbX YhW" King, that featured Chicago artists Crucial Con- notification statute was brought to her atten- 6ig]bYggAYYh]b[g 9`Y[Ubh6U``g flict and Malik Yusef, among others, according tion, and called the law “culturally insensi- 5bb]jYfgUfmDUfh]Yg :ibXfU]gYfg to ChicagoTribune.com. tive.” Gdcfh6UbeiYhg G\ckYfg 6]fh\XUmDUfh]Yg :ibYfU`@ibW\Ycbg KYXX]b[FYWYdh]cbg
State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company, State Farm Indemnity Company, State Farm Fire and Casualty Company, State Farm General Insurance Company - Bloomington, IL; ^Ybb]ZYfg[UfXYb4WcfY"Wca State Farm Florida Insurance Company - Winter Haven, FL; State Farm Lloyds - Dallas, TX. Consult your legal or tax advisor for specific advice. 8 January 16, 2008
VOL. 23, No. 18, Jan. 16, 2008 The combined forces of Windy City Times, VIEWPOINTs founded Sept. 1985, and Outlines newspaper, founded May 1987. I have met both Clinton and Obama. In person, have a dream” not deferred department. For once, they are equally charismatic. But it’s been very let’s use the entire slate of talent at the top, PUBLISHER & Executive EDITOR clear that Hillary has not found a way to translate with former President Jimmy Carter as Secretary Tracy Baim that charisma through a TV screen. Barack has. of State, former President Bill Clinton as United TRACY BAIM Nations ambassador. Michelle Obama as head Assistant Publisher Terri Klinsky He has also been a bit un-presidential in some MANAGING Editor Andrew Davis of his comments, in his cockiness. Humility, sir, of whatever she wants. I’m sure Bill Richardson Business manager Cynthia Holmes is much more appealing. Clinton, Edwards, and could find a post that fits him. Even some inde- Director of New Media Jean Albright most of them have all had their stupid moments— pendent-mind Republicans can be slotted in. How ART DIRECTOR Kirk Williamson account managerS: Amy Matheny, Suzanne when you watch them act like 5-year-olds. In this about Michael Bloomberg at the Federal Reserve? Kraus, Kirk Williamson, Jerry Nunn, Terry Wiegel, The Hillary-Barack camera-video-phone culture, we get to see every John McCain head of Veteran’s Affairs—clean up Thomas Koontz blemish, on every one of them. So we dodge the that mess and fight for the injured troops as hard Promotions director Kathleen Ulm Debate ... In My negatives, trying to see the positives. To hope as you have fought to put them in harm’s way. OFFICE Robb Olson again. The silver lining is this: We have a chance And who wants to be in charge of the hot pota- NIGHTSPOTS MANAGING Editor Kirk Williamson Head SENIOR NEWS REPORTER Amy Wooten for change in November. How we get there is as toes of trade, immigration, and education? Come National Sales Rivendell Media, 212-242-6863 important as actually getting there. The winner on, step up to the plate; we have been waiting TheatER Editor Jonathan Abarbanel What’s a feminist civil-rights supporter to do? should act like a winner, and the losers must be for you since the 1960s. [Just please keep Lou Cinema WRITER Richard Knight, Jr. This is an embarrassment of riches we have in Yasmin Nair asked to be part of the team—and we should not Dobbs away from immigration. Is it me or does BOOKS WRITER the Democratic primary. Sure, they all have their SENIOR WRITERS Bob Roehr, Rex Wockner, David allow them to say no. the circumference of his head swell each time he limitations, but when was the last time we had Byrne, Cathy Seabaugh, Tony Peregrin In some ways, I feel like casting a vote for Den- promotes his new book?] ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT WRITERS some viable, charismatic choices? When didn’t you nis Kucinich. Not just because he is the closest to While we’re at it, how about some creative Mary Shen Barnidge, Jim Edminster, Steve Warren, hold your nose to vote for the president? Lawrence Ferber, Mel Ferrand, Tim Nasson, Romeo my views on so many issues, including gay rights. choices: Phill Wilson as AIDS czar, Ellen DeGeneres But it’s also been a very draining battle to watch. St. Vincente, Scott Morgan, Catey Sullivan, Eric But also because I don’t want to choose which head of a new cabinet post on animals, Brad Pitt As I lay down at night after hours of play-by-play Eatherly, J. S. Hall “parent” I love more. It’s like we’re sitting around in charge of a New Orleans Rebuilding Project, and Columnists/Writers: Yvonne Zipter, Mubarak by the TV talking heads and online bloggers, the the dinner table and mom and dad are lobbying Staceyann Chin as poet laureate. Heck, if Oprah’s Dahir, Michelangelo Signorile, Susie Day, Jorjet inside of my head pounds—Clinton vs. Obama, we Harper, Lee Lynch, Steve Starr, Joe Rice, Dan for my affection. Maybe I will go for cousin Den- candidate wins or loses, will she actually step up feminists are between a Barack and a hard place. Woog, Marie-Jo Proulx, Lisa Keen, Chris Crain, nis instead. Sorry cousin John, you are a bit too to be in charge of rebuilding inner-city schools? Our fantasy presidential teams are flush. Charlsie Dewey, Aqua Terra Travel, Michael Knipp mean. At least I don’t have the dilemma of a Con- The supporters and critics on the sidelines, even PHOTOGRAPHERS Mel Ferrand, Kat Fitzgerald, I am also realistic: I know that Clinton and doleezza Rice—no thanks to her on all counts. the Sunday morning talking heads, should be Steve Becker Obama will both compromise, both equivocate Alison Bechdel, Mikeoart What is probably most frustrating to all Demo- asked to serve. The nation and the world face a ARTISTS/CARTOONISTS on many issues. It’s what being a politician is. cratic and Independent voters is that this field dangerous tipping point. Without creative solu- CIRCULATION The Clintons sold gays down the river a few times. Circulation director Jean Albright is so deep in ideas and talent, so why can’t they tions, without everyone stepping up, even a Dem- Obama has been pretty good on our issues, even all just get along? Let the voters decide, by their ocratic president will strike out. when he knows he’s on the wrong side of history votes, who is the first, second, third, etc. can- Stop making us hate Washington, and make us about marriage. He’s a practical guy, he tells us didate. Then, second place gets Vice President. believe you do really care. If Obama wins, be mag- to fight for what we can win. It’s like telling us Third place gets to pick a cabinet post, and so nanimous, choose the second-place finisher, even peas are good for us. We don’t like to hear it, even Distribution: Ashina, Allan, Carol, Crystal, Dan, on. We have a full baseball team’s worth of talent, if it’s Hillary. Same if Hillary wins. If not VP, some- Ed, Jack, John, Maria and Sue when we know he’s right. We can afford our moral with room for a deep bench. thing in the cabinet. Or keep the Senate post and high ground, while presidents shed most of their Let’s put John Edwards in charge of healthcare make a difference there. WCMG Board of directors principles on the way to a different mountain and poverty. Al Gore head of the Environmental Now, can Clinton and Obama please stop debat- President: Tracy Baim top. Vice President: Nan Schaffer Protection Agency. Kucinich in charge of the “I ing in my head? I need some sleep. Secretary: Pete Thelen At-large: Jonathan Abarbanel, Michael Bauer, Marv Pollack cations of prosthetic breasts that hides the pain cause of the disparity in health care African Amer- of amputation and disguises the epidemic of the ican women are more likely to die from the disease REV. IRENE disease, and the oftentimes dangerous reconstruc- although more white women are diagnosed with tive surgeries in the name of “quality of life” and it. Being a lesbian or bisexual woman does not MONROE “normal” femininity. increase your risk for breast cancer, but risk fac- And our silence and invisibility on this issue will tors like fear of coming out to health care provid- Copyright 2008 Lambda Publications Inc./Windy City Media not protect me our other women. ers, less access to health insurance, and having Group; All rights reserved. Reprint by permission only. Back issues available for $3 per issue (postage included). In October 2004 two-time Grammy winner rock fewer doctor visits for mammograms and profes- Return postage must accompany all manuscripts, drawings, singer-songwriter and lesbian activist Melissa sional breast exams will increase your chances. and photographs submitted if they are to be returned, and no responsibility may be assumed for unsolicited materials. I didn’t Etheridge was diagnosed with breast cancer. “Our To address the homophobia and life-threatening All rights to letters, art and photographs sent to Windy society doesn’t say the word cancer much,” said illnesses lesbian are bisexual women are likely to City Times will be treated as unconditionally assigned for publication purposes and as such, subject to editing wake up dead! Etheridge. When her grandmother was dying from face in our health care system the Mautner Project and comment. The opinions expressed by the columnists, breast cancer, no one even told Etheridge what was founded in 1990 following the death of Mary- cartoonists, letter writers, and commentators are their own and do not necessarily reflect the position ofWindy City I have breast cancer. I tell you this to better ac- was wrong. But Etheridge refused to remain silent Helen Mautner in 1989 of breast cancer. Times. Publication of the name, photograph, or likeness of cept the blow that has struck me. I look at the or invisible with the disease. At the 2005 Grammy My good news for now is that I’m up! I didn’t a person or organization in articles or advertising in Windy City Times is not to be construed as any indication of the horror and shock in your face of this news to as- Awards, Etheridge made a return to the stage bald wake up dead but I woke up still suspicious as sexual orientation of such person or organization. While sess am I experiencing this moment in real time from chemotherapy to performed a tribute to Jan- to why so many women are confronted with this we encourage readers to support the advertisers who make or is this just merely the nightmare I can’t wake is Joplin. Etheridge was praised not only for her disease. I got the report from my surgical oncolo- this newspaper possible, Windy City Times cannot accept responsibility for advertising claims. up from. And like the Good Morning America an- performance but also for courage. gist that my nodes are negative. Yippee! So this (773) 871-7610 FAX (773) 871-7609 chor Robin Roberts, who announced in August With any illness you look for spiritual suste- is what I know so far on this journey: My cancer is e-mail: [email protected] 2007 she had breast cancer, I, too, never thought nance. But be leery of some of the self-help books Stage 1, my nodes are negative, my tumor is the I would be writing this. and New Age Religions on the market, because size of a blueberry,and there is no sign of metas- www.WindyCityMediaGroup.com But now I must stop, see and assess my life dif- they too can make you go in hiding with their tasis. Whew! This is perhaps as good as it gets for radio: WindyCityQueercast.com ferently as African-American lesbian poet and ac- “blame the victim” philosophies that will flog you a person diagnosed with breast cancer. WINDY CITY MEDIA GROUP, tivist Audre Lorde told all women confronted with as painfully as self- flagellation and the expected 5443 N. Broadway, #101, Chicago, IL 60640 breast cancer in The Cancer Journals before she fire the brimstone theologies USA succumbed to the disease in 1992. There are no While it is true that there is a correlation be- instructional guides on how to personally to han- tween “dis-ease” in the mind and disease in the Windy City Times Deadline every Wednesday. Make your thoughts Nightspots Deadline every Wednesday. dle this ongoing health crisis, because it is about body the bigger question should be why with all Identity (BLACKlines and En La Vida): Now the particular woman herself. the advances made in breast cancer research are known! online only “Each woman responds to the crisis that breast there so many women across race, class, educa- Deadline The 10th of month prior. cancer brings to her life out of a whole pattern, tion and sexual orientations being diagnosed with Send your letters to Editor@Windy- OUT! Resource Guide ONLINE www.WindyCityMediaGroup.com which is the design of who she is and how her life breast cancer today? Is there an environmental CityMediaGroup.com or Andrew@ has been lived. The weave of her every day exis- link? WindyCityMediaGroup.com. SUBSCRIPTION RATES tence is the training ground for how she handles For example, research has shown there is a cor- Letters may be edited for crisis,” Lorde wrote. relation between environmental pollutants and ___ $89 for 1 year Windy City Times only length or clarity. ___ $55 for 1 year Nightspots only The weave of my everyday existence for the past breast cancer, like personal care products contain- ___ $109 for 1 year WCT & Nightspots twenty years has been about social injustice con- ing endocrine disruptors and other controversial ___ $5 for 1 copy of all products cerning race, class, gender identities and expres- compounds that have been marketed to both sions as it relates to religious intolerance. But now Black and white women in popular women’s maga- SEND PAYMENT TO: WINDY CITY MEDIA GROUP, 5443 N. Broadway, Suite 101, I take up another gauntlet: the politics of breast zines since the 1950s. Chicago, IL 60640 USA cancer, because this too is personal, exploring the According to the American Cancer Society, Every function of cancer in a profit economy, the medi- three minutes, a woman in the U.S is diagnosed www.WindyCityMediaGroup.com cal establishments’ indifference to cultural and with breast cancer. It is the most common cancer www.WindyCityQueercast.com sexual differences and insensitivity to women’s among women, and about 178,480 women will be health issues, the political and emotional impli- found to have invasive breast cancer in 2007. Be- January 16, 2008 9 Bishop: 13-year-olds WORLD provoke sexual ROUNDUP contact QUOTELINES by Rex Wockner The Roman Catholic bishop of Tenerife in Spain’s Canary Islands is in hot water for saying BY REX WOCKNER South African that 13-year-olds seek sex with adults, accord- ing to TypicallySpanish.com. Q AIDS leader marries In a Christmas Eve interview with the news- “Absolutely. Why not? People are “Let’s be clear: we have lost this war. Well-known South African AIDS activist Zackie paper La Opinión de Tenerife, Bernardo Álvarez competent because—not with anything to We have lost because the initial, central goals Achmat and his activist boyfriend Dalli Weyers said, “There are 13-year-old adolescents who are do with their sexual orientation. I had people of the invasion have all failed: we have not were married near Cape Town Jan. 5. under age and who are perfectly in agreement who are homosexual who worked for me in the secured WMDs from terrorists because those South Africa is one of six nations where same- with, and what’s more, wanting it, and if you are governor’s office.” — Presidential candidate WMDs did not exist. We have not stymied sex couples have access to full marriage. careless, they will even provoke you.” Mike Huckabee when asked on CNN Dec. 17, Islamist terror—at best we have finally sty- Hundreds of people attended the wedding, in- Álvarez added that such activity harms society “Could a gay be in your administration?” mied some of the terror we helped create. We cluding Mayor Helen Zille. Gay High Court Judge the same as homosexuality does, and said cul- have not constructed a democratic model for Edwin Cameron conducted the ceremony, sport- tures where either takes place will pay a price “Poor Mitt Romney just can’t flip the Middle East—we have instead destroyed a ing eye glitter for the occasion. down the road like “other civilizations” paid. without flopping. The wedding cake was a chocolate-brownie Álvarez’s office later released a statement say- In a cynical ploy to win tower with a king and a cowboy on top. ing he had not meant to suggest that “an event over social conservatives,
Achmat, 45, is the founder and chairman of as condemnable as the abuse of youngsters” Romney has beat a well- File photo the Treatment Action Campaign, South Africa’s could be justified. documented retreat from leading AIDS-activist organization. The Triángulo Canarias Foundation for the So- a whole host of moder- “We decided that the marriage statement as cial Equality of Gays and Lesbians condemned ate positions, including a Let’s be clear: a same-sex couple was a profound one and we Álvarez’s remarks. number of gay rights is- We have lost want the union to be seen as equal,” Weyers told sues. ... How ironic that a the Sunday Times before the wedding. Canadian students man who wears his faith— this [Iraq] Same-sex marriage also is legal in Belgium, albeit in generic Christian Canada, the Netherlands, Spain and the United target gay blood ban form—on his sleeve turns war. States (Massachusetts only). Numerous nations The Canadian Federation of Students is step- out to be the biggest —Gay writer (and eight U.S. states and the District of Colum- ping up its opposition to Canada’s ban on blood moral relativist in the Andrew Sullivan. bia) offer civil unions or registered partnerships donation by any man who has had sex with race—from either political that grant same-sex couples some, most or all of another man, even once, since 1977, CanWest party.” — Syndicated gay- the rights and obligations of matrimony. News Service reported Jan. 3. press columnist Chris Crain Federation spokeswoman Amanda Aziz said on his blog, citizenchris. the ban is outdated and “a form of institutional- typepad.com, Dec. 27. Brazilian gay ized discrimination.” totalitarian government and a phony country, activist murdered Opposition to the ban has provoked renewed “[W]e can’t have a president who only to create a permanently unstable, frac- Brazilian gay activist Francisco Técio de Ol- organizing at the University of Toronto and spent two minutes on YouTube staring in tious, chaotic failed state, where the mere iveira Soares was stabbed to death Jan. 3. McGill University in particular, the report said. a mirror and poofing his hair. Really, we just avoidance of genocide is a cause for celebra- His naked body was found in the hair salon he A spokeswoman for Health Canada called the can’t.” — Wall Street Journal columnist Peggy tion. We have, moreover, helped solder a new ran in the northeastern city of Crato. policy “science-based” and said men who have Noonan on John Edwards, Dec. 28. truth in the Arab mind: that democracy means Police have speculated the killing was a crime sex with men are not the only individuals tar- chaos, anarchy, mass-murder, national disin- of passion, given that nothing was stolen from geted. “It’s just as well I’m gay. If I was tegration and sectarian warfare. And we have the salon. People who visited the United Kingdom or straight, I’d be a hopeless mad movie star also empowered the Iranian regime and made Técio, 38, organized several local gay pride France between 1980 and 1996, for example, who fucks everything that moves. That’s what a wider Sunni-Shiite regional war more likely parades and had been involved in gay activism also are banned from donating blood, because I’d be like—married to every single girl that than it was in 2003. Apart from that, Mr. Bush, for more than two decades. they may have a type of mad-cow disease. I’d worked with, on wife number 10 by now, how did you enjoy your presidency?” — Gay Canadian Blood Service said it is continuing to always being sued for divorce because I’d been writer Andrew Sullivan on his blog, Dec. 17. study the issue. caught with two chicks somewhere. ... Or I’d Current HIV testing can detect infection with- be like a rapper—three girls at the same time, in days of its taking place. coke, orgies, yachts. I would be a monster, actually. I’d have to be competitive on a lad level with all those other male movie stars. I’d —Assistance: Bill Kelley —Assistance: Bill Kelley probably be an alcoholic, too. Mind you, I’d have made a lot more money—20 times more money, probably.” — Actor Rupert Everett to London’s Telegraph, Dec. 9.
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A DOG’S LIFE
The Little Dog Laughed (above) is one of the plays spotlighted in Windy City Times’ winter theater special. See page 12. TV THEATER MUSIC Just Jack. Strong ‘coffee.’ What a dame! Page 20. Page 11. Page 16.
‘What the hell is going classes, which are kind of like Provenzano, Lobel (who currently lives in Bailiwick’s on here?’ pivotal when you’re talk- London) felt that the situation was related to While talking about Windy City ing about wrestling.” Zak’s absence: “While it is true that I received Fight the debt, Zak comment- When told about Proven- royalties late, I am tempted to agree with David ed that “we always try Times’ zano, Zak admitted that that the lapse was because of his absence in my from cover to take care of the art- things got out of control, specific case. While getting paid from Bailiwick to identify with coming-out plays—it seems ists first. We try to pay financially and manageri- was not easy, it was not significantly more dif- they were born out!” a high level for our non- Winter Theater ally, when he was away ficult than getting paid by small theaters who However, Zak said those have not been the only Equity people.” (When from Bailiwick for a while want to be big theaters. As a touring performer, factors, citing competition with such entities as asked point-blank if all Preview after having open-heart from 2005-2007, I ... received on-time payment “Gay Games and Center on Halsted fundraising” the actors have been surgery, adding that about 50 [percent] of the time.” for Bailiwick’s slump. “As we were talking with paid, Zak responded that “yes, all the actors” “Jim’s show was one of those shows that opened However, Lobel added that he is “so conflicted individuals and foundations, we realized that were.) while I was in the hospital, and [he] was not about my experience with Bailiwick. On one people’s funding dollars [were geared] toward Maybe the actors were, but at least one writer happy with the show the director had made. I hand, it was a point of entry for me and so many priorities like the Gay Games—and thank God [it has a different story to tell. think a lot of what we’ve done in the past 18 young artists ... and for that I’m thankful. Would was successful]. Then, people went from there Jim Provenzano is in the midst of a lawsuit months can be attributed to when I wasn’t here. I have preferred them to be more honest about to the Center on Halsted, or vice versa. A lot of against Bailiwick, saying that he was never paid People said that they would take care of things, their budget, ability to reimburse [and] capabil- times, the phrase ‘donor fatigue’ came up.” for his playwriting efforts regarding Pins, a pro- and they didn’t get it done.” (According to Zak, ity to fill a house? Absolutely. But I was warned. Since noticing the financial slide (which Zak duction revolving around wrestling that ran in those people are no longer working at Baili- Warned sufficiently. ... In a world where space is stated is in the six figures), Bailiwick has altered 2006. (Provenzano also wrote the novel the play wick.) Zak—commenting that he’s heard from “a key, Bailiwick has it and is relatively generous its strategy, he said: “We have some programs was based on.) Talking with Windy City Times, really small percentage, because you never hear with it... I just so wish that they focused their that have always targeted different programs, Provenzano said that being unpaid is not the from the people who are happy”—said that “it’s efforts on quality, not quantity. While Bailiwick such as [the upcoming] Sunday on the Rocks, only thing that irritates him. “The play was so all going to work itself out.” may be guilty of [lack of] focus, many [oth- which is part of our women’s series, and this poorly done,” he said. “The director made over Zak also said that “the fact that so many peo- ers] are, too.” (Another performer, Tim Miller, summer we have Lesbians Who Kill, and a sum- 50 script changes, [the play] got bad reviews ple have worked here so long and keep coming e-mailed that he “performed two years ago at mer play. We won’t have a festival of shows, but and I was incredibly, horribly disappointed in back testify, in general, to the artistic integrity Bailiwck before David Zak’s surgery, I believe. It maybe just one show. them. ... I wanted to sue them for damages be- of the plays.” took a while but I was paid.”) “We’ve cut back, but we still do the [occasion- cause they made so many script changes I feel Provenzano, who said that he will never work al big show] such as Hunchback, with [musician] that it was incredibly bad and damaged my repu- with Bailiwick again, confirmed that his situ- Closing? Dennis DeYoung,” Zak said. “[Cutting back] is tation as a writer.” ation occurred while Zak was away, but added When asked if Bailiwick Repertory will have to something we’ve been discussing. This summer, Provenzano added that Bailiwick also skimped that Zak’s operation “is not an adequate excuse. close its doors, Zak said, “I don’t think so. We all the Pride Series shows are two or three char- on the production. “I gave them multiple exam- They still haven’t paid me; they wanted to settle don’t own this building, so that’s something else acters, so there isn’t a lot in terms of sets or ples, links and catalogs where to get wholesale for a few hundred dollars. ... Don’t tell someone that’s pressing on people’s minds. This neigh- productions,” adding that Hunchback will be the wrestling shoes, mats [and other pieces],” he you’re going to pay them when you can’t. borhood is a hot neighborhood. We are trying to last big show for a while. said. “When I went to see it in 2006, I had al- “There were five contract violations: they figure out [the payment] of debt and what the Zak added that “we need help with benefits. ready read several bad reviews and I’m like, ‘What haven’t paid my royalties; they didn’t put my bio long-term life is going to be.” ... I heard of people doing fundraisers for other the hell is going on here?’ ... What the director in the program—which was even criticized [in] Zak also said that he and the rest of the com- not-for-profits; I hope that if someone hasa did was chop up the dialogue. ... It even took two reviews; they didn’t credit New Conservatory pany are trying to get the message out about benefit, they would make Bailiwick [a] benefi- them a year and a half for them to even send a Theater with having commissioned the first pro- Bailiwick’s standing in the community. “Art ciary of that. That helps a lot of us—[including] videotape of the show—and the first half-hour duction; they provided an incomplete videotape; should be a big priority, and sometimes it’s not,” the people here and Hell in a Handbag [Produc- of Act Two the video camera was off, so I don’t and they made [dozens of] script changes.” he said. “Bailiwick has contributed tremendously tions].” He also said that Bailiwick is working on even have proof of how bad the show was. ... Brian Lobel—whose production about testicu- to the cultural fabric of this neighborhood over lengthening its donor list and is collaborating I hadn’t seen that bad a show in years. They lar cancer, Ball, ran at Bailiwick in 2006—e- the past 25 years, and I think people would miss with such troupes as Handbag. cast it wrong; the runt of the wrestling team mailed Windy City Times that he also ran into us if we were not here.” was taller than anyone else in the cast, even the financial difficulties regarding Bailiwick, hav- See www.bailiwick.org. father—so they cut out all references to weight ing received his royalties late. However, un- January 16, 2008 11 make Coffee Girl an unsettling piece that pushes all the right emotional buttons. More inspired work is seen with the dazzling dialogue for the Southern diner workers in Laura Fernandez’s Blooming Flowers in Weeds. Eliza Stroughton has a field day as the chipper wait- ress, Candy, who takes in a troubled teenager SPOTLIGHT Julia (Victoria Caciopoli) who hangs out in the Songs for a New World diner to avoid a troubled situation at home. The ending may be melodramatic, but it provides a big finish and helps to highlight the humanity of Fernandez’s working class characters. The Bohemian Theatre Ensemble, popularly Even if some of the selected plays’ quality is known as BoHo, is remounting its recent hit in question, this young playwrights edition is production of Songs for a New World, the tops in production values and acting. Set de- theatrical song cycle by gifted young com- signer Jack Magaw frames the stage with a lively poser and lyricist Jason Robert Brown, who’s collage of historical teenage portraits which had quite a successful relationship with Chi- glimmer game-show style by lighting designer cago even though he’s New York-based. In Diane Fairchild. The acting company is also to fact, Songs for a New World received its world be commended as they morph through multiple premiere here several years ago, although not roles and professionally play the dialogue. in the BoHo production. The remount is at Theatre Building Chicago, 1225 W. Belmont, through Feb. 10; 773-327-5252; $24. Photo THEATER REVIEW courtesy of Bohemian Theatre Ensemble Flowers Out of Season Playwright: Edward Crosby Wells Eliza Stoughton (left) and Victoria Caciopoli At: People’s Theater of Chicago in Blooming Flowers in Weeds. at EP Theater, 1820 S. Halsted Phone: 773-371-1868; $25 band, Jake (James Leaming). Memories of her Runs through: Feb. 3 Olympia Dukakis THEATER REVIEW husband and their marriage force Kate to take a stark look at her present, and the choices BY MARY SHEN BARNIDGE to Direct Play 22nd Annual Academy Award-winning actress Olympia she must make as she embarks upon the next Dukakis will direct the world premiere of Todd chapter of her life. Nowadays we call it “assisted suicide,” and it Chicago Young Logan’s Botanic Garden, starring real-life hus- Among Dukakis’s films are Steel Magnolias, 3 usually occurs in either of two scenarios: in one, band and wife James Leaming and Carmen Ro- Needles, Mr. Holland’s Opus and Moonstruck, Playwrights both the person desiring to die and the person man. The two-character play will begin preview for which she won a Best Supporting Actress granting their wish have given consent to their Festival performances on Wed., Jan. 30, at The Victory Oscar. On TV, she is known for portraying Anna relationship in this venture. In the other, how- By: Laura Fernandez, Molly McAndrew, Gardens Greenhouse Theatre, 2257 N. Lincoln, Madrigal in the Tales of the City series. ever, the proposed felo-de-se deliberately invites Claire Rychlewski and Sarah Winters and run through Sun., March 9. Tickets go on sale Wed., Dec. 12, and are $25 death at the hands of agents wholly unaware of At: Pegasus Players at Truman College, 1145 In Botanic Garden, Kate (Carmen Roman) fac- for previews and $35 for regular performances. the role for which they have been chosen. W. Wilson es the daunting and often humorous prospect Call the Victory Gardens Theatre box office at Edward Crosby Wells’ drama presents us with Phone: 773-878-9761; $12 of her first date since the death of her hus- 773-871-3000 or see www.victorygardens.org. both kinds: In the first act, young parents Dawn Runs through: Jan. 27 and Buck Rose despair of their fortunes in the depressed economy of the New Mexico oil fields BY SCOTT C. MORGAN as Dawn’s terminal illness spurs her to theolep- tic seizures counseing her to “go before”—a de- One of the pleasures of seeing Pegasus Players’ parture ceremoniously planned and compassion- Annual Chicago Young Playwrights Festival is ately executed by her devoted husband. In the seeing teenagers’ short plays professionally pro- second act, Buck attempts to seduce a wealthy duced on stage. For the 22nd edition, Pegasus matron, planning to rob her of the money he Players has chosen four works by young women needs for his now-motherless children. But Mrs. out of more than 700 entries from Chicago Pub- Daisy Winter has her own secrets, and after con- lic Schools. fessions have pushed them both to the edge, the Some may question the quality of a few selec- Grim Reaper can take his pick. tions in this year’s edition. In some cases you A play taking 20 years to write is something feel works were chosen because important is- significant at any stage of its gestation. Wells’ sues are brought up. narrative still hovers between the short story it This is the case with Sarah Winters’ Daydream once was and the drama it wants to be, the brev- Nation, which has teenagers voicing their con- ity mandated by modern theatrical convention cerns and drifting apart due to their differing frequently forcing characters to switch gears too takes on where the Bush administration is tak- quickly, too often. But Flowers Out Of Season ing the country. Alas, Winters doesn’t succeed (Buck Rose and Daisy Winter, get it?) has ambi- LOOKINGGLASS THEATRE COMPANY AND SILVERGUY ENTERTAINMENT PRESENT in making the characters more that mouthpieces guity built into its very plot: Is Buck as innocent after the promising first scene of a booze-filled as he presents himself to be? Is Daisy telling the prom night. Winters throws in new details and truth about her past? And how much does a re- motivations, making the two scenes of Daydream ligion cobbled together from scripture, folklore Nation feel like they’re from different plays. and tabloid superstition contribute to guilt and Molly McAndrew does a better job of tying ev- confusion engendering self-destruction? erything together in her historical what-if play There is no arguing the care bestowed by the A Rose in the Royal Court. Here, a feisty ground- People’s Theater of Chicago on this world pre- skeeper’s daughter named Rosalind gets a brief miere production. Jorge Felix’s scenic design reprieve from a troubled family life when she features a mural by Patricia Perez that all but becomes the muse for a certain William Shake- shimmers with a life of its own, while Alka speare writing Romeo and Juliet. It’s all a bit Nayaar and Sarah Pitard’s choreography seam- too cutesy and reminiscent of the 1998 film lessly melds grace and menace in a tango-dance Shakespeare in Love, but McAndrew makes the hinting at the violence to come. Madrid St. An- BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND! play fun by upending some of the stereotypical gelo directs Kristina Klemmeti, Remy O’Brien traits of love-struck girls. “explosive, dangerous, dazzling” and Gerardo Cardenas in performances with -The Wall Street Journal Much more serious and affecting fictional his- stamina sufficient to sustain tension even dur- Tickets on sale now Begins January 9, 2008 lookingglasstheatre.org 312.337.0665 torical drama is in Coffee Girl. Here, playwright ing the text’s time-stepping passages, resulting Claire Rychlewski’s follows a young slave girl in a riveting display of ensemble acting in the who makes a painful realization that her father Cornell-box quarters of Pilsen’s EP Theater. For is the plantation’s white slave owner, following audiences wary of the obstacle course compris- a violent incident with his jealous wife. The raw- ing access to this remote playhouse, be advised ness of this difficult American subject doubled that this is the show that will soon make the LOOKINGGLASS THEATRE COMPANY IN THE WATER TOWER WATER WORKS with the unflinching acting by Aaya McDaniel as journey worth the effort. the girl, Margaret, and Taylar as her grandmother