WiGOUT! ‘Beyond Priscilla’ An interview with filmmaker Stephan Elliott. Page 11

The voice of progress for Wisconsin’s LGBT community

January 14, 2010 | Vol. 1, No. 5 State, M&I Bank workers receive partner benefits By Louis Weisberg WiG Staff Writer Two of the state’s larg- est employers began offering domestic partner benefits Jan. 1. The State of Wisconsin Department of Employee Trust Funds, which handles benefits for most employees of state government and the University of Wisconsin sys- Partners page 4

California marriage trial begins Page 5 G r a p h i c : J a s o n S m i t h

This issue Matrimonial inside and online at wisconsingazette.com Study forecasts windfall News WiGWAG ��������������������� 2 from same-sex weddings Milwaukee Gaze ���������� 4 bucks National Gaze �������������� 5 Editorial ������������������������� 6 By Lisa Neff government revenues over a three-year period defeated the marriage measure Jan. 8, prompting Opinion ������������������������� 7 WiG Staff Writer and pump $200 million into the state’s economy gay rights advocates to vow to fight on in court. International Gaze ����10 over the same time. The New Jersey Supreme Court ruled in hen “The Wedding March” plays, The study from the Williams Institute at 2006 that the state must treat same-sex couples Features cash registers ring. the UCLA School of Law was released as equally and provide them the same benefits as WiGOUT ��������������������11 W Marriage can bring bliss and New Jersey lawmakers were debating a mar- heterosexual couples. Legislators responded Books ���������������������������13 marriage can bring bucks, generating millions riage equality bill in late 2009. Gay couples with a civil unions law, but activists pressed on Dining ���������������������������17 in revenues for local and state governments, can marry in five states — Connecticut, Iowa, for marriage. Real Estate ������������������21 and millions more for businesses. A new study Massachusetts, Vermont and, as of Jan. 1, New The court “ruled unanimously that same- StarGaze ����������������������22 estimates that legalizing gay marriage in New Hampshire. sex couples are entitled to equality under Jersey would generate $15.1 million in new The New Jersey Senate, in a 20-14 vote, Bucks page 8 2 WISCONSING A Z E TT E .COM | January 14, 2010

LGBT news with a twist WiGWAG By Lisa Neff & Louis Weisberg

Putting child ber or they would grow i t s e l f Hume has the cure for Tiger Broadway,” the first-ever took the NOW story in abuse on a out of it.” as an Woods’ philandering ways: Broadway show in a bath- stride. pedestal “ e l i t e ” Jesus. Appearing Jan. 3 on room. It’s described as a Former Milwaukee arch- A slippery c o m m u - “Fox News Sunday,” Hume “cheeky” musical number The now bishop Rembert Weakland is slope nity with a gave the golf phenomenon — all things potty — star- couple under fire by the Survivors A woman caught using “strict ban on some personal advice. ing that squeezable Charmin An online poll at www. Network of those Abused her boyfriend’s ski pass ugly people,” “The extent to which he roll. So, is the best seat on popeater.com names Ellen by Priests for using chari- last month at Colorado’s terminated about can recover seems to me Broadway on the toilet? DeGeneres and Portia de table money to create a Keystone Ski Resort thought 5,000 members who posted depends on his faith,” Hume Rossi as the most popular bronze relief of himself pic- fast: She told police that she photos showing they’d “let pontificated. “He is said to NOW celebrity couple. Yes, more tured in the biblical scene was in the middle of transi- themselves go” during the be a Buddhist. I don’t think no-no popular than Brad Pitt and of Jesus protecting children. tioning from male to female. holiday season. “As a busi- that faith offers the kind NOW magazine celebrat- Angelina Jolie. Yes, more The relief is part of the But her lie turned into a ness, we mourn the loss of of forgiveness and redemp- ed a mayoral candidate in popular than Beyonce and recently completed renova- slippery slope when she any member, but the fact tion that is offered by the Toronto with a profile piece Jay-Z. tion of The Cathedral of St. invited the Summit County remains that our members Christian faith. My message that said Adam Giambrone John the Evangelist, 812 N. Sheriff’s office to call her demand the high standard to Tiger would be, ‘Tiger, is “young. He’s bright. He’s Leathered up Jackson St., Milwaukee. As father to confirm her story. of beauty be upheld,” site turn to the Christian faith gay. And he looks better Milwaukee’s Harley- archbishop, Weakland know- That’s because the sheriff’s founder Robert Hintze told and you can make a total than any of his challeng- Davidson celebrates Elvis ingly shielded pedophile office called her boyfriend’s CNN. “Letting fatties roam recovery and be a great ers so far.” Giambrone, who Presley’s birthday this priests and paid $450,000 dad, who voiced great skep- the site is a direct threat example to the world.’” had not officially entered month with a display of in hush money to a man ticism that his son was in to our business model and Would that be the Christian the mayoral race, also is not rarely seen photos from who claimed Weakland the process of becoming his the very concept for which faith of Ted Haggard? Earl gay. “Easy mistake, given my Presley’s 1968 comeback raped him. In his memoir “A daughter. The woman was BeautifulPeople.com was Paulk? Mark Sanford? Jimmy great relationship with the TV special, along with the Pilgrim in a Pilgrim Church,” arrested for theft and crimi- founded.” Users can join Swaggart? Can we hear an LGTQ people/communities King’s famed red-and-white which was released last nal impersonation. only after enough members amen? and our long-standing mutu- motorcycle. Wear Elvis summer, Weakland defended vote for them as “beautiful” al support,” Giambrone sunglasses and sideburns himself by saying he didn’t The price of during the 48 hours after Critics say… wrote on Facebook. “But so and get a $4 discount. And realize that child molesta- indulgence their profile is uploaded. Charmin has teamed as not to mislead anyone, I yes, the museum restau- tion was a crime, and that CNN reports that beau- up with Broadway Cares/ should correct the record: rant is serving peanut but- he “naively” believed victims tifulpeople.com, an online Tiger’s cure Equity Fights AIDS to I’m not, in fact, gay.” He ter and banana sandwiches. either “would not remem- dating site that trumpets Far-right pundit Brit present “Bathrooms over added that his partner Sarah Thankyaverymuch.

G E T T h e WISCONSIN G A Z E TT E d e LI v e r e d . C A LL 414-961-3240 Sampler Day > Heroes & Villains Hero try to elect an openly gay Despite her impeccable New Year, New You! Annise Parker worked mayor. qualifications, Simpson’s Healthy eating IS convenient and delicious! You’ll discover how hard in both the private In her inaugural speech transgender status has when you stop by and try - Outpost’s signature prepared foods, and public sectors before Jan. 4, WiG’s hero said her drawn anger and ridicule taking a shot at the may- election marked a mile- from far-right pundits innovative whole grain dishes, sparkling fresh produce and more! oral office in the nation’s stone, but “today is simply and TV-land comics. We fourth-largest city. She one step toward a tomor- describe her critics as spent two decades in oil row of greater justice.” infantile, offensive, ignorant, and gas, worked as a gay Parker’s partner Kathy and, yes, our villains. saturday rights advocate and served Hubbard held the Bible “Is there going to be three terms as city comp- upon which Parker took a transgender quota now troller. her oath of office. in the Obama admin- January Last fall, she ran a clean, istration?” asked Peter honest campaign for mayor. Villains LaBarbera of Americans for She ran with integrity, and Amanda Simpson has Truth, accusing the admin- 11am she ran on a smart plat- worked in the defense and istration of pandering to form that Houstonians aerospace industries for the LGBT community for 2pm believe will help the city more than 30 years, most hiring the best candidate 23 continue to weather the recently as deputy director for the job. A l l S t o r e s ! recession better than most in advanced technology for Matt Barber of Jerry U.S. cities. Raytheon Missile Systems. Falwell’s Liberty University In December, Parker Her peers describe her as said the appointment “bog- entered a runoff race top-caliber, sophisticated, gles the mind.” against Gene Locke, whose smart and brave. And when David supporters circulated cam- The Obama administra- Letterman announced paign material suggest- tion recently appointed Simpson’s appointment, ing her sexual orientation Simpson as senior techni- announcer Alan Kalter made her unqualified for cal advisor with the U.S. feigned trans-panic, “What? 100 E. Capitol DrivE MilwaukEE the job. Parker secured the Department of Commerce, Amanda used to be a dude? mayoral seat, and Houston making her one of the first My God,” he shouted and 7000 w. StatE StrEEt wauwatoSa won prominence as the transgender appointees to hurried off the stage as the 2826 S. kinniCkinniC avE. Bay viEw largest city in the coun- the federal government. audience laughed.

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Anyone can sell you insurance. Milwaukee Gaze Benefits include health, dental and vision The difference is IT’S Partners from 1 for health insurance benefits. domestic partner benefits in service. About 265,000 people cur- response to requests from tem, now provides a compre- rently work for employers employees and new hires. A NEW hensive package of benefits, who are part of the fund’s “We’ve had nothing but including health insurance, system. positive (feedback) from DECADE retirement benefits and The Legislative Fiscal every group, saying it’s good state death benefits, to the part- Bureau projects the annual to work for a company minsuranceid and OF ners of its workers. cost of the benefits at $4.7 that’s progressive and open investment services The benefits were man- million to $6.7 million, which to this,” Salentine said. “The dated in the two-year bud- amounts to an increase of bottom line is that it was LGBT get signed into law by Gov. 1.2 percent to 1.75 percent the right thing to do.” SPECIALIZING IN Jim Doyle last July — the in costs to the state. M&I, which is mostly self- Group or Individual Insurance NEWS. same budget that established M&I Bank also launched insured, estimates that the Family Health Insurance Domestic the state’s domestic partner a domestic partner benefit new policy will increase the Partnership Benefits Medicare Plans registry. The registry went plan on Jan. 1. With about bank’s benefits costs by less Group Life Disability into effect last August. 9,500 employees, the bank than 1 percent. Dental Coverage Thanks Employees applying for is the largest in the state Salentine said most same- Serving Milwaukee and the for benefits must sign affidavits and among the top 20 in the sex couples choose to keep Riverwest Neighborhood with their partners attest- nation. their individual health insur- for over 20 years ing that they have lived M&I’s benefits include ance policies, which are picking together for at least six health, dental and vision cheaper than family policies Call Today for a Free months and have “the func- insurance as well as fam- and carry less tax liability. tional equivalent of a mar- ily medical leave and funeral But if one partner is Customized Quote us up. riage.” leave. a stay-at-home parent or They must be able to pro- Vice president of cor- loses coverage, the domes- vide such documentation as porate relations Dennis tic partner policies pro- John M. Tomlinson a joint lease, joint ownership Salentine said M&I adopted vide a needed option. Mid-State Insurance of a home or car and a joint (414) 254-9964 checking account. (262) 241-0550 At least 1,067 employees [email protected] had submitted partnership Get connected WIHealthInsure.com forms prior to the end of December 2009, according Milwaukee City Hall: www.ci.mil.wi.us. to trust fund spokesperson Mayor Tom Barrett: 414-286-2200, Matt Stohr. [email protected]. Of those, 710 had applied

We’re bored when you leave us at home... Regional Gaze Kirk responds to gay-baiting ad

Republican Mark Kirk is directly. responding to ads from a Now Kirk is back on the fringe candidate in Illinois’ campaign trail and on Jan. 7 U.S. Senate race by flatly stat- he called the ads “completely ing that he’s not gay. outrageous and untrue.’” There’s nothing boring about it! The radio ads challenge The Chicago congressman Kirk to address rumors that says it’s ironic that he defends he is gay. free speech as a member of • Day-Camp customized by size and weight • Specialty Retail Boutique-Find all of your They began running while the military and then rival favorite specialty items • All-Suite, Cage-Free Overnight Lodging for Dogs Kirk was on active duty in candidate Andy Martin uses • All-Natural Bakery and Treat Shop • Multi-Level Kitty Condos for Day and Overnight Afghanistan as a member of the right of free speech to Lodging for Cats • Indoor Turf Play Yard-Dogs can play happily in the Navy Reserves, which make false allegations. every type of weather kept Kirk from responding — AP U.S. Rep. Mark Kirk • Full Service Grooming Salon • State of the Art-One of a Kind Facility • Spa Services-Facials, Pawdicures, Massage • Fenced Outdoor Play Yard for Running and • Seniors Lounge featuring Infra-Red Therapeutic Beds Dipping in the Pool Did you know? 5055 S EMMER DR (2 Blocks NW of I-43 & Moorland Rd. Interchange) NEW BERLIN, WI “MSM” was coined by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control for “men who have sex with men.” It should not be used to describe openly gay or bisexual men individually or collectively, except in specific clinical or statistical contexts, according to GLAAD. WISCONSING A Z E TT E .COM | January 14, 2010 5

Got news? Tell us national GAzE [email protected]. Lesbian mom seeks daughter’s return By Lisa Neff ‘I just want for public support, Liberty ing Miller repeatedly in con- WiG Staff Writer Safe return Counsel special attorney tempt of court for failing to A mother snared in an Anyone with infor- Isabella to Rena Lindevaldsen wrote, allow Jenkins’ visitation with inter-state custody dispute is mation regarding “Lisa Miller is one of thou- her daughter. appealing to the public for the whereabouts of know and love sands across this nation Jenkins said, “It was dev- help in locating her daugh- Isabella Miller-Jenkins who have left the homosex- astating to me, as I’m sure ter. and Lisa Miller should both of her ual life through the redeem- it was to Isabella, when Lisa “I am so worried about call the Center for parents.’ ing power of Jesus Christ,” withheld contact between Isabella. I do not know where Missing and Exploited P h oto : C ourtesy Lam b da while Jenkins is “openly me and my daughter. she is or whether she is OK,” Children at 800-843- L e g a l living the homosexual life- “My goal has never been said Janet Jenkins. 5678 or the Bedford Janet Jenkins and style.” to separate Isabella from In November, Jenkins County, Va., Sheriff’s in a civil union in Vermont daughter Isabella last Jenkins, represented by Lisa. I just want Isabella to secured a family court order Office at 540-586- in 2000, had Isabella in 2002. January. the American Civil Liberties know and love both of her from Vermont that Isabella 4800. The couple separated and But Miller moved to Union and Lambda Legal, parents. I just want to be Miller-Jenkins, 7, be trans- dissolved their union in 2003. Virginia, where she filed a successfully challenged with her, like any parent.” ferred to her custody on Jan. At the time, a Vermont court claim seeking to be named Miller’s petition, arguing that “This terrible situation 1. The child is believed to be Jenkins said she doesn’t granted temporary custody Isabella’s sole parent. Miller’s Vermont, not Virginia, was cannot continue. Miller with her other mother, Lisa know where Isabella or Lisa to Miller, Isabella’s biological case became a celebrated the proper jurisdiction for and Isabella must be found Miller. Miller is, nor do Miller’s attor- mother, and visitation rights cause of the Christian right, the custody case. and the transfer of custody But the transfer of custody neys and Isabella’s guardian to Jenkins. Both women were with the ultra-conservative Eventually courts ordered must take place as the court did not take place on New ad litem. identified as Isabella’s legal Liberty Counsel handling the that custody of Isabella be has ordered,” said Lambda Year’s Day. Jenkins and Miller, joined parents. legal work. In a 2008 appeal transferred to Jenkins, find- attorney Greg Nevins. Marriage trial begins in California

By Lisa Neff a final — and possibly land- the defendants in the case Walker said the case’s intimidated or harassed. They LGBT activists are calling on WiG Staff Writer mark — ruling. because of their offices, but national importance was one went to the nation’s High the Obama administration to California’s constitutional At issue is whether the both have said the marriage of the reasons he wanted Court to stop the broadcast, file a brief asking the court to amendment banning gay cou- U.S. Constitution prohib- ban is indefensible. Thus, the proceedings recorded. “I although Walker had said he overturn Prop. 8. ples from marrying went on its states from outlawing Prop. 8 sponsors are defend- always thought that if people would consider requests to “Gov. Arnold Schwarz- trial in a San Francisco fed- same-sex marriage, which ing the ban. could see how the judiciary black out the video if indi- enegger and Attorney eral courtroom Jan. 11. California voters did with the Prior to trial, Chief U.S. really works, they would take vidual witnesses object to General Jerry Brown are The trial is expected to passage of Proposition 8 in District Judge Vaughn Walker a somewhat different view of being recorded. speaking out and stand- last three weeks, but the case, November 2008. had authorized court it,” he said. As of WiG’s press time, ing with us by telling the Perry v. Schwarzenegger, is California Gov. Arnold employees to record the Defense lawyers opposed the Supreme Court had not Court that Prop. 8 cannot expected to eventually go to Schwarzenegger and trial for delayed broadcast taping the trial, arguing that decided whether to allow be defended under the U.S. the U.S. Supreme Court for Attorney General Brown are on YouTube. their witnesses might be a broadcast of proceed- Constitution,” said Geoff ings from the San Francisco Kors of Equality California. courtroom. “No voice would have more While the trial is under of an impact on the case A guide to the Prop 8 trial way on one coast and jus- than President Obama’s. It tices on another coast are is time for him to stand up The national debate over former Clinton White House election in Florida. They have being led by Charles Cooper, considering the video issue, and act.” same-sex marriage is taking adviser Richard Socarides, tapped the talent of their a veteran trial lawyer who center stage in a California referring to the 1954 respective law firms in prepa- worked for the Reagan-era courtroom at a closely Supreme Court decision that ration for the trial and they Justice Department. Cooper watched federal trial that outlawed racial segregation plan to take turns question- is being assisted by a team of Sale $ 2.49 could ultimately become the in schools and other public ing witnesses. lawyers from his own firm, Price landmark case that deter- facilities. Defendants: Republican along with a Christian legal In-Store $1.50 mines whether gay Americans The case marks the first Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger group based in Arizona. Reward have a right to marry. federal trial to examine if and Democratic Attorney Judge: Presiding over the You Pay The case will decide a the U.S. Constitution permits General Jerry Brown are case is U.S. District Court Now challenge to California’s bans on gay marriages. defendants in the lawsuit Chief Judge Vaughn Walker, $.99 gay marriage ban that was Plaintiffs: Two of the by virtue of their promi- a Republican named to the approved by voters in 2008, nation’s most influential law- nent positions in California bench in 1989 by the first HARDWARE & and the ruling will likely be yers are to argue the case — government,. But both men President Bush. Walker, who PLUMBING CROWN SUPPLY appealed to the U.S. Supreme former U.S. Solicitor General opposed the ban and have has a reputation as an inde- Court. How the high court Theodore Olson and trial refused to defend the suit pendent thinker, was ran- rules in the case could set lawyer David Boies. The in court. domly assigned the lawsuit,. the precedent for whether lawyers are best known as The sponsors of the gay He put it on a fast-track to 2016 N. M.L. KiNg drive (3rd street) gay marriage becomes legal the rivals who represented marriage ban, a coalition of trial, saying it raises serious MiLwauKee, wiscoNsiN 53212 nationwide. George W. Bush and Al Gore religious and conservative civil rights claims. phoNe: 414-374-5100 “This could be our Brown in the “hanging chad” dispute groups, joined the case as www.wisconsingazette.com toLL free: 888-463-5100 vs. Board of Education,’’ said over the 2000 presidential defendants. Their legal team is — AP 6 WISCONSING A Z E TT E .COM | January 14, 2010 { Editorial } > TAKE ACTION!

This is an election year, and, we are in the midst of an important election now — Facebook voters are choosing charities to receive $1 million in Chase Community Unmasked? Giving, a campaign by Chase and Facebook. The top vote-getter in this election, which concludes Jan. 22, will receive $1 mil- lion and five runners-up will receive $100,000. As of press time, the same people who spent millions fighting a massive Among the 100 charities competing for the awards are three groups working campaign to overturn same-sex marriage in California were fighting a judge’s to improve the lives of LGBT youth — the Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education decision to videotape a trial to determine Proposition 8’s constitutionality. They Network, the Matthew Shepard Foundation and The Trevor Project. claimed the proceedings, to be shown on YouTube.com, would expose them to intimidation and harassment by same-sex marriage supporters, and they asked What you can do the U.S. Supreme Court to halt the plan. Each Facebook user can vote for up to five charities. You can help put these Hak-Shing William Tam, a chief organizer of the campaign, was so frightened important groups in the running for funding that could go a long way to making of repercussions that on Jan. 8 he asked a judge to remove him from the suit. the world safer for LGBT youth. Go to apps.facebook.com/chasecommunitygiving/. In his petition, Tam wrote, “I do not like people questioning me on my private personal beliefs.” What’s behind their sudden faintheartedness? As Theodore Boutrous, who is part of the anti-Prop. 8 legal team, put it in late December, “They certainly did not exhibit a similar fear of public attention when attempting to garner votes for Prop 8 from millions of California voters, (or) when touting their successful campaign strategy in post-election magazine articles and public appearances.” The problem is that Tam and his crowd don’t want the ugly details of their { Letters } beliefs known. Tam doesn’t want the people of America to know he told his church that the consequences of same-sex marriage would be: “One by one, other states would fall into Satan’s hands. …More children would become A resolution ership and his actual power We know far too well how homosexuals.” Like many others, I was to make change on behalf of the urgent needs of our com- Tam and his colleagues fear that such revelations would lead to open hostil- not sorry to see 2009 come the LGBT community and munity fall to the bottom of ity – perhaps even violence of the sort that LGBT people suffer at the hands of to an end. A lot of misery, our families. political priorities. That’s why bashers inflamed by their own rhetoric. But their fears leave us cold. great expectations, dashed But as he himself acknowl- we need to be as vocal and If they could not walk down many streets in America holding hands with hopes, deferred dreams and edged, his leadership will only visible as ever in 2010. their spouses for fear of being tormented, beaten or killed, maybe we’d have daily anxiety were packed be as good as our activism. I ask you to make this res- sympathy. If they could be booted out of the military, fired from their jobs or into those 12 months. He virtually demanded that olution: Every time we send denied fundamental rights like marriage merely because of who they are, then As 2010 dawns, I can’t say I we pressure him to be his you an action alert asking maybe we’d feel pity. possess irrefutable proof for best self on our issues. That you to call Congress, please These people who claim such confidence that God is on their side should budding optimism, but there is a call we must heed. And do so. It may seem like a stand proudly and openly in the face of possible condemnation, just as so many are some signs, both obvious not just for President Obama, small ask, but the truth of of us have done. and nuanced, that positive but for every member of the matter is Congress is not change may be coming our Congress and every other hearing from our community way. elected official whose voice as much as they need to. Our There are, of course, some and courage and power we opponents flood their phone big indicators. From my per- need pressed into service for lines and fax machines. They spective, an active LGBT our lives. Phone calls, e-mails, fill their inboxes. We don’t. community that recognizes in-district and in-D.C. visits, If our voices are not heard, The Wisconsin Gazette is published that our activism and engage- letters to the editor, and we are dismissed. Let us be biweekly and distributed throughout the ment are essential if we are recruiting friends and family louder and brighter and big- Milwaukee area, Madison, Racine and to see movement on LGBT to also stand with us. This ger than our opponents. Let Kenosha. To have WiG delivered to your issues at the national level. is the language of political us shine the light on moral address, contact circulation@wisconsin- This coming year we must pressure, and, believe me, it leadership and insist that we CEO/PRINCIpal gazette.com or call 414-961-3240. elevate our involvement in works. are not a disposable constitu- Leonard Sobczak WiG Publishing, LLC. © 2010 national and local politics, We await the passage of ency who can once again be understanding that this is the long overdue legislation rang- dropped to the bottom of Publisher/ only way we can hold our ing from federal employment the list. Editor in Chief elected leaders accountable. protections to the repeal of Kate Kendall, executive Louis Weisberg Entertainment Editor I respect and admire our “don’t ask, don’t tell” and director, National Center for Gregg Shapiro president a great deal. I have DOMA to comprehensive Lesbian Rights Managing Editor some sense of the enormity immigration reform that Lisa Neff Real estate writer of his task and the toxicity includes LGBT families. We Kerrie Kennedy of his opposition. Even so, heard plenty of promises Send letters to Creative Director there is no reason why he about hope and change in managingeditor@ Jason Smith contributors Harry Cherkinian cannot exert his moral lead- 2009, yet little was delivered. wisconsingazette.com. Jr., Jody Hirsh, Bruce Joffe, Rick Karlin, Paul Advertising Manager Masterson, Angel Sevilla, Max Thomsen, Perry Lewis Jennifer Vanasco, Paul Varnell

Account Executives Technical consultant Melissa Bruns, Will Elwood Kevin Rux Our mission To inform, engage and empower Wisconsin’s LGBT community by providing a professional, independent print and online source for news and commentary, www.wisconsingazette.com as well as coverage of political and cultural issues. WISCONSING A Z E TT E .COM | January 14, 2010 7 Just kidding Gay marriage: a tale of two cities As a young gay man in In an unusual example of incremental approach, adding It provides a model of what the 21st century, I often synchronicity, in mid-Decem- one element after another Mexican states should do if feel a certain detachment ber the semi-autonomous to a narrow civil unions law they want to be equal to the Opinion from my gay roots. I don’t capital cities of both the until there was little differ- federal district, and it implic- BY Paul Varnell think this is necessar- United States and Mexico ence from marriage except itly constitutes a reminder ily a bad thing. A lot of altered their laws to allow the highly symbolic name. to social democratic parties people of my generation people, the gay basher same-sex marriage. The Mexico City law in other countries that they about the relation of eco- don’t want to be labeled would just bash someone In neither case was the affects far more people. have no grounds for denying nomic and social freedom. as gay or black or white. else. vote even close. Washington has a population equality for gays. Like Washington, Mexico Our main concern is to be That’s one type of bad In Mexico City’s legislative of less than 700,000 while Although Mexico is a con- City has a sizable and visible treated like human beings person. There’s another assembly, the vote was 39-20. Mexico City has a population servative Catholic country, gay population, a gay enclave — that’s all. type that Sarah Silverman In the Washington, D.C., City of nearly 9 million, making Mexico City’s legislature is and several gay bars. Once a This brings me to my described in an inter- Council, the vote was 11-2. it the largest city in Latin controlled by the left-wing jurisdiction affords economic topic — jokes about race, view with Katie Couric. In both cases the new law America. Democratic Revolutionary freedom to its citizens, they gender, sexual orientation, Silverman was talking was a modest change from The Washington law has Party, which has long existed begin to assert the right to etc. about how sometimes an existing civil unions law. the advantage of the prec- in tension with the Catholic more autonomy in other I was surfing YouTube, when she’s doing her The new Mexico City law, for edents of five U.S. states, Church. It has evolved a posi- parts of their lives as well. one of my favorite things stand-up comedy, she’ll example, defines marriage as which have adopted gay mar- tion of supporting compre- It may be worth mention- to do, and I was watch- observe a Jewish audience “a free union between two riage. By contrast, Mexico hensive equality for gays as ing here that the social dem- ing stand- member, for people” instead of “a free City is the first jurisdiction part of its social democratic ocratic route to gay equality up comedy e x a m p l e , union between a man and in Latin America to adopt gay agenda. A spokesman for the is not the only one. There is s k e t c h e s People are who will woman.” marriage. Both Uruguay and Catholic Church deplored also the libertarian/minimal by Sarah laugh at Both offer possible lessons Colombia have adopted civil the new law and said that government route of reduc- S i l ve r m a n people. black jokes, for efforts elsewhere. The unions but not gay marriage. gays and transsexuals would ing the scope of government and Chelsea M e x i c a n Washington law is a trib- The Latin American prece- “never enter into the king- and depriving it of the power Handler. On jokes and ute to two decades of sus- dent provided by Mexico City dom of heaven”; but the DRP and right to grant special the sidebar was a video of gay jokes. But when it tained efforts by the Gay and is considerable, much as the was not intimidated by medi- rights to some groups (e.g., racist jokes, one of which I comes to jokes about Lesbian Activist Alliance and legalization of gay marriage eval theology and silly cos- heterosexuals) but not to thought was so funny that Jews, his laughter stops. It’s other groups, which lobbied in Massachusetts constituted tumes and gave the new law others (e.g., homosexuals). I posted it as my Facebook as if it’s not OK to laugh at legislators and spoke regular- an impressive precedent for 100-percent support. Paul Varnell is a nationally status. I knew at the time his people, but to laugh at ly at churches and communi- courts and legislatures in Beyond that, both cities syndicated columnist based in that this had the potential everyone else’s people is ty events. They worked on an other New England states. illustrate an interesting point Chicago. to cause a bit of contro- fine. Do you know what versy, but I wasn’t afraid to you are when you laugh defend my decision. at other people’s cultures Some people comment- and think yours is special? ed with a simple “LOL,” You’re a racist! A family’s marriage aisle widens and I even got a “Wow” I’m Mexican. I can out of someone. But one laugh at black jokes, white It’s sometimes tough to like her, how perfect we are acceptance, not contempt. person asked this ques- jokes and Mexican jokes measure progress, personal together. That is why the marriage tion: “How do you seri- alike. Do you know why? or political. Our lives are Opinion When they left, they made debate itself has been useful ously feel about telling Because they’re just lived slowly, day by day, and so a point of saying goodbye to — even when it fails in places racially motivated jokes jokes! change can seem incremental. By Jennifer Vanasco Jenny, too; of asking us both like California. Because it has when you’re brown your- These days, sexual ori- Or impossible. to dinner; of hoping they saw meant that hundreds of ordi- self? I feel like telling jokes entation, race and gender But a lot of difference can in a school with developmen- us both again soon. nary gay and lesbian couples like this makes the bigger are irrelevant. People are be made in a decade. tally disabled kids, so I know Jenny and I slow danced have been showcased in the issues be taken less seri- people. The president is About 10 years ago, I went what’s it’s like to be special together. We held hands. A media and on the streets. ously.” black. I hold hands with to my dad’s second wed- and different.” year into our relationship, We are no longer a mysteri- To this person I can my boyfriend in public. ding and wrote about it in I looked at her and paused. we are obviously in love and ous minority with strange easily say I disagree. Racist It’s not a big deal any- a column. It was the first Started to say something. we didn’t try to hide that or and secret rituals. We are people, homophobic peo- more. time since high school that I Paused again. mute it. couples. We are families. ple and sexist people alike There are bad people, had seen many of the family “Can I get you something We were out lesbians at Yes, my dad’s friends had are all members of one and there are good peo- friends and neighbors I grew from the bar?” I said. my sister’s wedding and no 10 years to get used to the group: bad people. They ple. Just as long as you up with, and so it was an eve- Things are so different one cared. idea that I was a lesbian. But are people who hate. know you’re on the right ning of perpetual coming out. now. And that is exactly how it they wouldn’t have changed As for the “bigger team, you shouldn’t have Gray-haired friends of my Recently, I went to my sis- should be. their minds if society hadn’t issues” she was concerned anything to be concerned dad would ask, “Are you mar- ter’s very elegant wedding. It Marriage in Massachusetts, rapidly changed. about, I can say that hate about. People need to ried?” was attended by many of the Iowa, New Hampshire and Jenny and I are planning crimes and gay bashing are stop singling themselves And I’d say, “I’m partnered same people, most of whom Connecticut has legitimated to get married when our a couple of big issues that out as “the oppressed with a woman. I’m a lesbian.” I hadn’t seen since my dad’s gay and lesbian couples in marriage can be legally per- I have experienced, and minority.” You can be There would be a short shindig. a way nothing else could. formed in New York. they had nothing to do anything you want to be pause. They’d start to say This time, my current part- It even affects couples like We’re planning on a small with me being gay. They and, if you’re oppressed, something. Then a longer ner was invited. And this Jenny and me, who can’t get wedding, so we don’t know had everything to do with it’s most likely because pause. time, things were very dif- married in our home state of if we’ll invite any of my dad’s the fact the people who you’re acting oppressed. Then they’d say something ferent. New York (though our gov- friends. hit me were afraid of me. So stop it. Treat yourself like, “Excuse me, I need to “It’s wonderful to meet ernor tried in the final month But the difference now, is They hate change and hate with respect, and so will say hello to Mrs. Smith, I you!” these even-more- of 2009). that we feel like we could. things they don’t under- others. just spotted her”; or, “Would graying friends of my dad People are getting accus- And if we invited them, we stand. Angel Sevilla III is a student you like something from the said. They kissed her on the tomed to the idea that gays think they’d come. My point is that if there at the Milwaukee Institute bar?”; or, in one memorable cheek. They made party small and lesbians get married, that were no such thing as gay or Art and Design. case, a woman who I like talk. They took me aside to we call each other husbands Jennifer Vanasco is an award- very much said — with the tell me how great Jenny is, and wives. And with social winning columnist based in best of intentions — “I work how funny, how much they change, familiarity breeds New York City. 8 WISCONSING A Z E TT E .COM | January 14, 2010 ‘Our side is going back to court to win marriage equality’ Bucks from 1 the law, but civil unions do Pioneering plaintiff wants DC’s 1st gay marriage not provide equality,” said Kevin Cathcart of Lambda Craig Dean’s first wed- They’d been on CNN, were riage license,” he said. pioneering effort, wants the month; he should be proud. Legal, which argued the 2006 ding was attended by thou- profiled in The Washington The measure still has first spot in line. Blevins and Dean met sev- court case. “The Legislature sands, and as he recited his Post and sat on Oprah’s to survive a review by Gill died in June 1997, eral months ago on a blind has failed not only same-sex vows, gay couples behind couch. Congress, which has final just over two years after date, but their romance has couples and their families, him on Constitution Avenue And though they lost say over the district’s laws. the court decision against moved fast. On Christmas, but the state constitution’s echoed their own. their landmark case, the city Lawmakers appear unlikely the couple. Blevins put a ring in Dean’s promise of equal protection.” It was 1993, and Dean last month finally did what to intervene though, so gay “Whether it became legal stocking and asked, “Would “Our side is going back to and boyfriend Patrick Gill it had refused to do back couples could be marrying or not, he was my husband,” you do the honor of marry- court to win marriage equal- headlined what was billed then: Legalize marriage for in Washington — legally this Dean said. “If anything, it ing me?” ity,” said Steven Goldstein as the largest gay marriage gays and lesbians. time — by March. It would was a marriage in the way “Yes,” Dean said, as long of Garden State Equality, ceremony at the time. Dean, Dean, who now lives be the sixth place in the we lived our lives.” as he gets a real Washington the New Jersey statewide 29, and Gill, 26, were celeb- in South Carolina, said he country where gay marriag- His current partner, pho- wedding. LGBT group partnering with rities after suing the city cried when he read the es are allowed. And Dean, tographer John Blevins, told Lambda on a return to court. of Washington for denying news. who carries bittersweet Dean not to cry when the Goldstein noted that while them a marriage license. “They owe me a mar- memories of his and Gill’s district passed its law last — AP the legislative fight was lost, one outcome was a wealth of public testimony and research. year industry in the United Taylor, a consultant with the 19,494 same-sex couples The public record includes States, with spending for MarriageMarket Research. ‘The new living in New Jersey would the testimony of Williams ceremonies, clothes, meals, “But the industry remained report legally marry if they could in Federal Institute executive Brad parties, transportation, flow- strong throughout the worst the next three years. forecast Sears, who explained for the ers, photographers and other of last year. And it will remain takes into • Based on trends and In studying the New Jersey Senate Judiciary services and goods. strong in the coming years. New Jersey’s popularity as a marriage issue, The Committee the economic The Wedding Report, an People don’t cheat this bud- account the tourism destination for New Congressional Budget benefits of enacting a mar- industry research group, puts get.” York, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Office concluded that riage equality bill. the average cost of a wed- Still, in analyzing the impact changing legal Maryland and Delaware, an if all 50 states and the ding in the United States at of legalizing same-sex mar- estimated 35,500 same-sex federal government Matrimonial $20,910. riage in New Jersey, Williams landscape.’ couples from other states extended marriage money “It’s not a recession-proof Institute researchers Sears, would go to New Jersey to rights to same-sex Marriage is a $70 billion a industry,” said Lawrence Christopher Ramos and M.V. marry. couples, the govern- Lee Badgett were conserva- extending the rights of mar- The researchers point to ment would benefit by tive. riage to same-sex couples the spring of 2004, when nearly $1 billion a year. “The new report takes would positively impact a couples from 46 states and Forbes magazine Tamarack into account the changing state’s budget and its busi- eight countries traveled to projected that if gays legal landscape and the reces- nesses. San Francisco during the one could marry in all 50 sion,” said Sears. Legislative offices in month that the city issued states, same-sex wed- WaldorfSchool Connecticut and Vermont marriage licenses to gay cou- dings would generate Pre-K through Grade 8 Same-sex cents and the comptroller in New ples. $16.8 billion a year in The researchers have used York have reached similar • Spending by same-sex wedding industry rev- U.S. Census data and a sur- conclusions in studying the couples on weddings and enues. vey of same-sex couples who issue. tourism would generate — L.N. Open married in Massachusetts to As did the Office of the about $15.1 million in rev- forecast the financial impact Chief Financial Officer in enues for state and local gov- of legalizing marriage for gays Washington, D.C., which ernments. House in Washington, Maryland, recently said that same-sex • Spending would generate that $1 spent in the state st New Mexico, California, weddings would gener- about $12.7 million in local generates more than $2 in Sunday, January 31 Connecticut, Colorado, ate as much as $22 million and state sales tax revenues additional spending. 1pm to 4pm Vermont, Maryland and Iowa. over the next three years. and occupancy fee revenues. “If these factors are taken

1150 E. Brady St. tamarackwaldorf.org 414-277-0009 www.wisconsingazette.com Each analysis found that Washington’s city council • Spending would generate into account,” Sears said, “the voted in late December to about $1.3 million over three total impact in New Jersey legalize marriage for gay cou- years in marriage license fees. could be close to half a billion ples, though the measure still • Spending by same-sex dollars.” needs congressional approval. couples on weddings would But, with the defeat of In New Jersey, the wedding create and sustain more than the marriage equality bill milWALKeeDOG windfall would largely come 1,400 jobs. Jan. 8, the Williams Institute from tourism — out-of- • Spending by same-sex researchers will have to wait Milwaukee’s premier dog walking and pet care service. state couples traveling to the couples on weddings would to test the validity of their Garden State to exchange boost New Jersey’s economy projections. their vows. by about $200 million over And New Jersey Gov.- 227 N. Water St. (414) 221-WALK three years. Elect Chris Christie, R — Milwaukee 53202 (414) 221-9255 Garden State The researchers’ estimate whose vow to veto any gay green does not include spending marriage bill that reached his In “The Impact of by relatives and friends on desk prompted the rushed 100% Organic Treats Biodegradable Poopy Bags Extending Marriage to Same- gifts, or expenses of guests vote in the senate — will Sex Couples on the New traveling within New Jersey not rely on any revenues Jersey Budget,” Sears, Ramos to attend weddings. The esti- from same-sex marriages to and Badgett estimate: mate also does not include help balance a state budget milwalkeedog.com • Based on trends in the standard multiplier for projected to be $9.5 billion other states, about half of tourist spending, which is in the red. WISCONSING A Z E TT E .COM | January 14, 2010 9

Got news? Tell us national GAzE [email protected]. Parker Bar attack inaugurated probed as hate as mayor crime Annise Parker has taken News Santa Cruz, Calif., police over as Houston’s mayor, from around the u.s. are investigating as a hate making her city the nation’s WiG and AP Reports crime an alleged attack on largest to be presided over a gay man at a downtown by an openly gay person. held Gay Ski Weeks for nightclub. The 53-year-old Parker years. Aspen’s Gay Ski Week, Police spokesman Zach was sworn in during a private planned the week before Friend said detectives believe ceremony as chief executive Vail’s, drew about 2,000 peo- the 31-year-old man was of America’s fourth-biggest ple last year. assaulted Jan. 2 at the Blue city. She repeated the oath Vail also plans a Gay Week Lagoon because of his sexual of office Jan. 4 as part of pub- in the summer. orientation. lic inaugural ceremonies and — AP The alleged victim told celebrations. police a man yelled anti-gay Parker received almost 54 gay man to slurs at him outside the bar percent of the vote in a join Salt Lake and then attacked him inside, December runoff, defeating City Council leaving him with bruises and former city attorney Gene An openly gay man was cuts. Locke in a race to succeed sworn in recently as a Salt — WiG term-limited Bill White. Lake City councilman. Houston Mayor Annise Democrat White is now run- Stan Penfold, who was Parker Montana city ning for Texas governor. elected to represent the considers non- Parker, a three-term for- liberal Avenues and Capitol of the Utah AIDS Foundation discrimination mer city controller, has never Hill areas, is thought to be over the last decade. policy made a secret or issue of the council’s first openly gay —AP Bozeman, Mont., city her sexual orientation in her member. commissioners are consid- runs for office. Penfold said the coun- RI lawmakers ering a policy change that Her sexual orientation cil has done a “remarkable back funeral would prohibit discriminating drew attention after anti-gay job” on social issues and he rights for gays Gay Ski Week is back on in Vail, Colo. against people because they activists and some religious doesn’t intend to become a Rhode Island lawmakers are lesbian or gay. groups endorsed Locke and lightning rod for gay rights. voted Jan. 5 to allow same- — AP tion of the cause of death If approved, the change sent out mailers condemn- Among other actions, sex and unmarried couples was deferred pending toxico- would add sexual orientation ing her. the council has passed ordi- the right to plan the funerals Investigators logical tests and microscopic and gender identity to the —AP nances banning discrimina- of their late partners, over- seek cause of studies that could take eight categories of people protect- tion against gays in housing riding a veto by the governor, death of U.S. weeks or more. ed under the city’s anti-dis- Vail revives Gay and employment. Penfold who warned it eroded tradi- socialite Johnson was diagnosed crimination policy. The cur- Ski Week said he will focus on grass- tional marriage. Casey Johnson, an heiress with diabetes as a child, but it rent policy prohibits discrimi- Gay Ski Week is back in roots issues such as afford- The bill passed 67-3 in to the Johnson & Johnson was unclear if that had a role nation on the basis of race, Vail, Colo., this winter. able housing and improving the House and 31-3 in the fortune, lived the life of a in her death. color, religion, creed, sex, age, The mountain resort neighborhoods’ quality of life. Senate. It enjoyed support Hollywood socialite — par- Johnson’s body was found marital status, national origin, skipped the week-long pro- The 52-year-old Penfold from several Republican law- tying with Paris Hilton, pos- Jan. 4 in the California home political ideas and disability. motion last year because of grew up Mormon in makers in the same party ing for paparazzi, becoming where she lived. Bozeman Mayor Jeff the economic downtown. Humboldt County, Calif., and as Gov. Don Carcieri, who engaged to bisexual reality There were no signs of Krauss says he hasn’t heard But resort tourism officials ran nurseries in Sandy and is an adamant opponent of TV star Tila Tequila and, like foul play, according to police. of any gay or lesbian discrimi- say they hope to attract 500 West Jordan after moving same-sex marriage in a state her idol Marilyn Monroe, — AP nation issues with city work- to 1,000 attendees during to Utah nearly 30 years ago. that does not recognize gay dying young. ers, but he said the policy this year’s event, planned for His parents hail from Idaho unions. An autopsy Jan. 5 found change could save the city Jan. 27-31. and met at Brigham Young The new funeral planning no evidence of trauma on from future legal trouble. Aspen, Telluride and University in Provo. rights also apply to unmar- the body of the 30-year-old — AP Whistler ski resorts have He was executive director ried heterosexual couples. Johnson and a determina- 10 WISCONSING A Z E TT E .COM | January 14, 2010 international GAZE Gay couple marries in Argentina

By Almudena “My knees didn’t stop the wedding and called the Dominguez said the Tierra Calatrava shaking,” said Di Bello. “We occasion “historic.” del Fuego government ‘My knees AP Writer are the first gay couple in Many in Argentina and appeared to base its autho- didn’t stop They had to travel to the Latin America to marry.” World throughout Latin America rization on a broad inter- ends of the Earth to do it, Di Bello, 41, an executive international update remain opposed to marriage pretation of the Argentine shaking.’ but two Argentine men suc- at the Argentine Red Cross, WiG and AP Reports rights for gays, particularly Constitution and obligations ceeded in becoming Latin met Freyre, 39, executive the Roman Catholic Church. under international treaties. America’s first same-sex director of the Buenos Aires “The decision took me by Rios said her province’s married couple. AIDS Foundation, at an HIV wed them, citing conflicting surprise and I’m concerned,” approval was based on a rul- ing appeals by same-sex cou- After their first attempt to awareness conference. judicial rulings. Bishop Juan Carlos, of the ing by a Buenos Aires judge ples whose marriages were wed in December in Buenos At the indoor civil cer- Di Bello said Ushuaia ini- southern city of Rio Gallegos, who declared two provisions rejected. A Supreme Court Aires was thwarted, gay emony, the grooms wore tially declined to authorize told the Argentine news of the constitution discrimi- justice said that the high rights activists Jose Maria Di sport coats without ties and the marriage, but went ahead agency DyN. He called the natory and gave the go-ahead court would likely rule on Bello and Alex Freyre took had large red ribbons draped after the couple received marriage “an attack against for the Dec. 1 marriage, same-sex marriage sometime their civil ceremony to the around their necks in solidar- backing from Tierra del the survival of the human which was then blocked by this year, but could defer to capital of Argentina’s Tierra ity with other people living Fuego province. species.” another judge’s ruling based Congress if legislation moves del Fuego province, where with HIV. Gov. Fabiana Rios said in But same-sex civil on civil law. forward. a sympathetic governor Argentina’s Constitution is a statement that marriage unions have been legalized Individual provinces may Seven countries in backed their bid to make silent on whether marriage equality “is an important in Uruguay, Buenos Aires, not have final say over same- the world allow gay mar- Latin American history. must be between a man and advance in human rights and Mexico City and some sex marriages for long. riages: Canada, Spain, South The couple exchanged a woman, effectively leaving social inclusion and we are states in Mexico and Brazil. A bill that would legalize Africa, Sweden, Norway, the rings Dec. 28 in Ushuaia, the the matter to provincial and very happy that this has hap- Marriage generally carries gay marriage was introduced Netherlands and Belgium. southernmost city in the city officials. The men tried pened in our state.” more exclusive rights, such as in Argentina’s Congress in world, closer to Antarctica to get married in Argentina’s An official representing adopting children, inheriting October but it has stalled than Buenos Aires. The infor- capital but city officials, who the federal government’s wealth and enabling a partner without a vote. mal ceremony was witnessed had earlier said the ceremo- anti-discrimination agency, to gain citizenship. Argentina’s Supreme Share your thoughts. by state and federal officials. ny could proceed, refused to Claudio Morgado, attended Legal analyst Andres Gil Court currently is analyz- www.wisconsingazette.com.

lawmaker ‘I stand by law also expands its scope gays. refuses to to include Ugandans living withdraw the bill. I abroad, who can be extra- parliament anti-gay bill dited and punished. votes for The Ugandan lawmaker will not marriage who proposed a bill that men Portugal’s parliament would give some gays withdraw it.’ arrested for passed a bill Jan. 8 that the death penalty said he engagement would make the predomi- will refuse any request to Officials in Malawi say nantly Catholic nation the withdraw the legislation they have arrested two sixth in Europe to permit after a minister said the ed into (homosexuality). men for celebrating their gay marriage. government would ask The process of legislating engagement to each other Conservative President him to. a law to protect our chil- in the conservative south- Anibal Cavaco Silva is Lawmaker David Bahati dren against homosexu- ern African country. thought unlikely to veto the said he felt the bill is nec- ality and defending our Malawi Attorney Socialist government’s bill, essary in the conserva- family values must go on.: General Jane Ansah says which won the support of tive East African coun- The proposed legis- the men were charged all left-of-center parties. His try. Minister of State for lation would toughen with indecency. Those ratification would allow the Investment Aston Kajara Uganda’s already strict convicted under the law first gay marriage ceremo- had said the government laws against homosexual- can be sentenced to 5-14 nies to take place in April would ask Bahati to scrap ity, which are bolstered years in jail. — a month before Pope the bill because they fear by Uganda’s conservative Police said Blantyre Benedict XVI is due on an backlash from foreign society. residents Steven Monjeza official visit to Portugal. investors. The draft of the new bill and Tiwonge Chimbalanga Right-of-center parties The bill, which Bahati says anyone convicted of a were arrested in late opposed the change and proposed in September, homosexual act — which December after their sought a national referen- www.wisconsingazette.com has provoked criticism includes touching some- engagement ceremony, dum on the issue, but their from gay-rights groups and one of the same sex with which attracted many proposal was rejected and protests in London, New the intent of committing a onlookers. the government’s bill was York and Washington. homosexual act — could In Africa, only South passed by 125 votes to 99. “I stand by the bill,” face life imprisonment. The Africa has legalized same- Gay rights campaigners Bahati said. “I will not death sentence could apply sex marriage. Uganda will applauded from the galler- withdraw it. We have our to sexually active gays liv- soon debate a proposed ies, hugged and kissed out- children in schools to pro- ing with HIV or in cases law that could impose the side the building and ate tect against being recruit- of same-sex rape. The new death penalty on some wedding cake. — AP WISCONSING A Z E TT E .COM | January 14, 2010 11

WiGOUT!Wisconsin Gazette entertainment BEYOND ‘PRISCILLA’

By Gregg Shapiro An interview with filmmaker Stephan Elliott WiG Staff Writer

tephan Elliott is a storytell- er. On screen or over the phone, Elliott has a way of telling a story and making it fascinating. SHaving just mounted “Priscilla, Queen of the Desert,” the stage musical version of his Oscar-winning 1994 movie “The Adventures of Priscilla Queen of the Desert,” Elliott’s latest film “Easy Virtue” is making its DVD and BluRay debut this month. Based on an early Noel Coward play, the film tells the story of the arrival of American widow and race car driver Larita (Jessica Biel) into the terribly proper lives of a stuffy British fam- ily following her marriage to favored son John (Ben Barnes). I spoke with Elliott about “Easy Virtue” and his other movies. Gregg Shapiro: Your pre- vious films, including “The Adventures of Priscilla Queen of the Desert” and “Welcome To Woop Woop,” were contem- porary stories. What was it about Noel Coward’s play “Easy Virtue” that made you want to do a period piece? Stephan Elliott: Actually, I was quite famously hav- ing a career of basically try- ing to remove myself from “Priscilla.” As much as I love her, she is an old ball and chain. I haven’t actually ever Director Stephan been able to get past it.… Elliott holds Fizz as Quite helpful was Richard he arrives for the BFI O’Brien, who did the “Rocky London Film Festival Horror Show.” He said, screening of “Easy “Look, Stephan, it’s the same Virtue” in London. thing. I’ve got ‘Rocky,’ and I P h oto : a p / can’t get past it. But there M at t D u n h a m comes a point when you have to start looking at it Cover page 14 12 WISCONSING A Z E TT E .COM | January 14, 2010 Musically inclined

“You Weren’t Black Magic,” “Satin Doll” and Other There: A History “Moon River.” Soundtracks of Chicago VDs Ricker makes excellent use There are several nota- Punk, 1977-1984” D of archival footage. Mercer ble musical soundtracks on Factory 25 By Gregg Shapiro was a singer as well as a the shelves. “My Fair Lady,” Chicago probably isn’t the songwriter, and the perfor- George Cukor’s movie first place that you think of it never extended beyond mance footage of him pro- adaptation of the Lerner when you think of punk rock the city’s borders to achieve vides an essential perspective and Loewe musical starring circa 1977 to 1984. national success in the way on the man. Audrey Hepburn and Rex London, the land of the bands from other major met- The film also contains Harrison, is one example. The Sex Pistols and The Clash, ropolitan areas did, the city’s interviews with musicians, DVD includes features such more likely. Or New York, punk community managed to composers and journalists, as audio commentary, a vin- home of The Ramones, keep the spirit alive. including Michael Feinstein, tage featurette and alternate Blondie and Talking Heads. “You Weren’t There” fea- Margaret Whiting, Tony Hepburn vocals. The Blu-Ray Even Los Angeles, with X and tures a wealth of perfor- “You Weren’t There: A History of Chicago Punk” Bennett, John Williams, edition of Rob Reiner’s moc- Black Flag. mance and archival footage, Leonard Maltin, Julie kumentary “This Is Spinal But Chicago’s contribu- as well as interviews. One partner Dannie Flesher, gets winning singer, composer and Andrews, Cleo Laine, Johnny Tap,” starring Christopher tions, limited as they may of the most fascinating rev- praised by those interviewed. lyricist in a class all his own. Mandel and Andre Previn. Guest, Harry Shearer and have been, get the recog- elations of the doc is the His songbook includes such For the most part, this doc Michael McKean, includes nition they deserve in Joe role of the gay community “Johnny familiar standards as “Hooray is an affectionate homage to more than an hour of deleted Losurdo and Christina in the scene. La Mere Vipere, Mercer: The for Hollywood,” “That Old Mercer. scenes and outtakes. Tillman’s rock doc. Chicago’s premiere punk Dream’s On Me” From bands such as Tutu stomping ground, was origi- TCM/WB & The Pirates and Bohemia nally a gay bar. Gay bar owner In time for the Johnny through Naked Raygun and Dem Hopkins, whose Rogers Mercer centennial, Bruce In theaters Big Black, punk in Chicago Park tavern The Greenleaf Ricker’s film is a loving trib- thrived in difficult conditions, also went from gay to ute to one of the greatest including coming up against punk, is interviewed. Other songwriters of the 20th cen- misguided Mayor Jane Byrne punk clubs with gay origins tury. A Savannah, Ga., native, and the Chicago police, the included O’Banions and Ann John Herndon Mercer was Film syndicate and various per- Arkee’s. Seminal punk record born in 1909 to a prominent By Gregg Shapiro sonality conflicts among store Wax Trax, owned by and philanthropic family and the various bands. Although the late Jim Nash and his life went on to become an Oscar- “Crazy Heart” Fox Searchlight A honky-tonk version of “The Wrestler,” writer/direc- tor Scott Cooper’s feature film debut features a stellar performance by lead actor Jeff Bridges. Hard living has taken its toll on 57-year-old country/ western singer Bad Blake (Bridges), a cross between Waylon Jennings and Kris Kristofferson. He’s been reduced to playing in bowling alleys where, because of his reputation, he’s not allowed to run a bar tab. But, heck, he can bowl all he wants. Bad is broke and his agent Jack (Paul Herman) does what he can to set up gigs. Protege Jeff Bridges stars in “Crazy Heart.” Tommy Sweet (Colin Farrell) has surpassed Bad profes- on the way back to Santa anything to do with him. A sionally. Fe to see Jean and her son visit from Jean and Buddy While in Santa Fe, N.M., Buddy (Jack Nation), Bad falls ends disastrously when Bad to play a saloon, Bad meets asleep and flips his vehicle. momentarily loses the boy in $10 OFF Jean (Maggie Gyllenhaal), With a broken ankle, a a mall after stopping at a bar. SeLeCt SeatS tue - tHu! a journalist who wants an concussion and doctor’s The ensuing post-visit use the code word interview, a film device that orders to quit drinking and bender leads to a stint in tue,jan 26 - Sun,jan 31 OPen when you order. allows the audience to learn smoking, Bad finds himself rehab, and then Bad, now Subject to availability, not valid on prior sales. about Bad. laid up at Jean’s place, fac- going by his given name Otis,

$30 - $70 - Overture Hall Jean and Bad hit it off ing a golden opportunity to shows up on Jean’s door- and begin a relationship. concentrate on songwriting. step to show he’s reformed, Meanwhile, Tommy has But watching Jean’s interac- but she turns him away. In arranged an opening slot tions with Buddy remind Houston again, Otis contin- for Bad on his tour stop in him of his own grown son. ues to put his house in order, Phoenix. He also offers Bad Back home in Houston, he literally. And he begins writing overturecenter.com a sizable sum to write some calls on his son, Steven (Brian new songs. Bridges is at his 608.258.4141 | groups: 608.258.4159 new songs for him. Bad is a Gleason), who, as you might best here and deserves the hit with Tommy’s crowd, but have guessed, doesn’t want raves he’s been getting. WISCONSING A Z E TT E .COM | January 14, 2010 13 Men of the dance

“Men in Motion: the Art and Passion of the Male Dancer,” photographed Enjoy a spectacular by Francois Rousseau performance on us.

The lithe, At the Milwaukee Rep, The Pabst, muscled Books The Riverside, or Turner Hall. WiGOUT bodies of about 50 male By Paul Varnell Get free tickets to Milwaukee’s most exciting WiG Contributing Writer dancers “Men in Motion” displays venues—they’re yours for the taking. the lithe, muscled bodies of about 50 male dancers, Just go to wisconsingazette.com and demonstrating that they are the book. as athletic as sports figures. Ballet has – and has always click the “Free Stuff” button on our There is not an ounce of The cover of “Men in had – a strong erotic com- home page. But act fast. Supplies are limited! body fat anywhere in this Motion” ponent. The Paris Opera, oversized volume, which for example, long refused to includes 130 muted-color solved the “flop flop” prob- perform any opera that did photographs of the dancers lem. Dance belts do just that, not contain a ballet episode, performing various move- while doing nothing to dis- which allowed the female ments. guise the presence of genitals. dancers to display themselves Both ballet and modern Paradoxically, they seem to and then later mingle with dance require great control emphasize them. the men in the audience to over the body. Dancers must The men in almost equal make “dates.” And so, to have stretch to assume and sus- portion are black and white, their operas performed in tain difficult, often unnatu- drawn mostly from the Paris Paris, composers like Wagner ral, positions. Their training Opera, New York City Ballet, and Verdi composed music doesn’t develop large mus- Alvin Alley American Dance to go with largely unrelated cles, but rather muscles that Theater and the Bill T. Jones/ ballet episodes inserted into are instantly responsive to Arnie Zane dance troupe. A their operas. the dancer’s demands. A few smaller number are drawn Nowadays, with more of the photos, for example, from Broadway, hip hop and male-centered troupes, the show the pliancy of dancers’ break dancing. erotic appeal of men’s bodies feet, which have flexibility far Although most of the men, too can be openly acknowl- beyond the normal range. as the title promises, are “in edged and welcomed. Perhaps half the men motion,” a few are sitting depicted in the book are or just staring moodily at nude, while most of the oth- the camera. Advance public- ers wear dance belts. When ity for the book included What’s on your bedside table? the Dutch National Ballet some excellent photos of WiG wants to know what toured several years ago with men “in motion” that could you’re reading. some nude dances, one critic have been used instead of E-mail managingeditor remarked that they had not these, which add nothing to @wisconsingazette.com. 14 WISCONSING A Z E TT E .COM | January 14, 2010 ‘They’re all fish-out-of-water stories’

Cover from 11 ‘Honestly, I’m A scene from as a gift. As a gift, instead of a frustrated Stephan Elliott’s a burden.” Those were wise “Easy Virtue” words at the right time for composer.’ me. It is a gift and it’s time to get back to work and do something different. And yet Within about two days of it’s not different in a sense. shooting the film, Colin Firth I think there was a theme in spun around, looked at me there (that) attracted me to and said, “She’s going to steal it, which is ultimately, at the this movie.”… end of the day, all of the work GS: Both “…Priscilla…” and has had something similar — “…Woop Woop…” had won- even “Woop Woop” had it derful soundtracks, and so does — they’re all fish-out-of-water “Easy Virtue.” I was especially stories. Like it or not, it’s very struck by the period arrange- much there. Jessica Biel is the ments of modern tunes such as drag queen, so to speak. Rose Royce’s “Car Wash,” Billy GS: I’m glad that you men- Ocean’s “When The Going Gets tioned Jessica. At first, I wasn’t Tough The Tough Get Going” sure that she had the range and Tom Jones’ “Sexbomb.” to bring Larita to bear, but she SE: Honestly, I’m a frus- surprised me. trated composer. It’s funny, I SE: That’s the best thing you fell into this job and actually could ever possibly say to me. all I’ve ever wanted to do is That’s what I was banking on. write music. Usually before I and love, which is quite a lot Coward would have done if and there were tears. She GS: There were signs that it Coward had originally written start anywhere, I start with lighter, he became that later he’d rewritten it, I thought went away and they bought was not meant to be. Larita as a little bit older. This a strong musical concept of in his career. Part of what to myself, what would the the family a new dog, and SE: It was not meant to be. sassy, ballsy, American divorcee what I want to do. In this my thinking was — Coward’s older Hitchcock have done when they came back for I’ve actually been trying to do who marries this younger man. instance, I wanted to stretch known as the master, I won- if he’d done it in his prime, a second meeting with the this gag for quite some time. I actually looked at a lot of der what the master would rather than when he was family she was so nervous GS: How does being a gay actresses a little bit older and have done if he’d approached 20 years old. A lot of the about doing anything wrong. man influence your work, if a lot of them had done simi- the same material when he visuals throughout the film She went looking for the toi- at all? lar (work). It’s very similar was older. That became what (are) classic Hitchcock in his let, couldn’t find it and rather SE: There’s a single theme to what I did with (Terence) Cover we were doing in the writ- prime. than keep asking where the that I’ve only recognized in Stamp in “Priscilla,” which is ing department. Most people GS: I don’t think I’m ruining toilet was, she shut the door, the last couple of years, but WiGOUT look outside the box. When I don’t know this, but a very it for anybody, but the movie locked herself in the bath- there is definitely a feeling met Jessica, there was some- young Alfred Hitchcock shot contains the unfortunate death room, pulled down her pants through every film and in thing incredibly fresh about myself a little bit. the original “Easy Virtue” as of the family dog. and jumped up on the sink everything I’ve ever writ- her. I realized that she’s got GS: Something that I noticed a silent movie as his sec- SE: Ah, yes. to go to the toilet. The sink ten that has only recently this baggage of being called in the movie is the use of reflec- ond movie. It was Coward’s GS: Are you worried about snapped off and she knocked dawned on me – and that is “the most beautiful woman in tions — in mirrors, windows, second play and Hitchcock’s PETA or animal rights activists herself out. They eventu- that I’ve always felt like a bit the world,” which she’s been and even the eight ball on the second movie. making a fuss? ally broke the door down of an outsider. Every film I’ve voted several times. There’s a billiards table. GS: Kind of ironic. SE: No. It actually hap- about two hours later and done is about an outsider part of her that’s fighting to SE: That was very delib- SE: Yes! When you look pened to a girlfriend of mine. found herself unconscious in not fitting in. I have never not get out of that and stretch.… erate. When Coward wrote at the (original) film, it’s not She’d met a guy, and when a pile of her own piddle fit in. I’ve always fit in fine. And she worked her guts this play, he was very young. very good, because it was a she went to meet the family with her underpants around But I guess going back to my out. I’ve never seen anybody The original play is very small black-and-white movie. for the first time, she was her ankles. You’ll be happy early teens, it was probably work that hard. She got up vicious. It wasn’t funny, it was … Hitchcock wasn’t even so nervous, she actually sat to know that that was the a traumatic experience, as I every morning and fought really rather cruel. He was Hitchcock yet. If we’re going on the family Chihuahua the end of that relationship. They think it probably is for most her way through it and that having a go at the English. to attack the script from the minute she walked in the never got past the second gay and lesbians when they was just a joy to behold. The Coward that we know perspective of what the older house. All hell broke loose one (laughs). don’t fit in.

‘Precious’ Daniels, star Gabourey Sidibe star Anika Noni Rose, and nominated for and supporting actors Mariah “Invictus”’ star Morgan NAACP award Carey, Mo’Nique, Paula Freeman also were nomi- Escape the chains The heart-wrenching Patton and Lenny Kravitz. nated for their performances. story of an illiterate and “Precious” was also nomi- Sophie Okonedo (“Skin”) One location . Focus on you . Bring your prescription abused teen in New York’s nated for outstanding motion and Taraji P. Henson (“Tyler Harlem who finds hope in picture and outstanding inde- Perry’s I Can Do Bad All a classroom of misfits tops pendent film. By Myself”) round out the nominees for the 41st civil The NAACP Image best actress category, while rights group NAACP’s annual Awards honor diversity in Denzel Washington (“The Image Awards. the arts and will be pre- Taking of Pelham 12”’), Idris O p t i c i a n s “Precious: Based on the sented Feb. 26. Elba (“Obsessed”) and Jamie Bronze Quinton, aBOc Novel ‘Push’ by Sapphire” Other movies nominated Foxx (“Law Abiding Citizen”) added to its awards-season include “Invictus,” “Michael are up for best actor. Linda Berna, aBOc visit our website for special-offer coupons and more. momentum with a leading Jackson’s This Is It,’’ “The 1568 n. FarweLL ave. | MiLwaukee | 414.221.7055 | BrOnzeOpticaL.cOM eight nominations, earn- Blind Side” and “The Princess ing nods for director Lee and the Frog.” “Princess” — AP

BronzeOptical_ad_Gazette_nov09.indd 1 11/3/2009 1:15:50 PM WISCONSING A Z E TT E .COM | January 14, 2010 15 Queer through the year Music By Gregg Shapiro

“For Him and the Girls” Hawksley Workman, Isadora It’s a testament to the timelessness of Hawksley Workman’s music that the reissue of “For Him and the Hawksley Workman Girls” sounds like he could have written and recorded it and Sara return with another the ages. Soulful and haunt- yesterday or today. fine album, “Sainthood.” The ing, it’s a voice that sticks The out Canadian singer/ songs are examples of the to your ribs and brings a songwriter and guitar vir- twins’ continued growth as range of emotions to your tuoso, one of the most riv- one of the most influential ears. “Give Up The Ghost,” eting live performers I have musical acts out there. In the Carlile’s third studio disc, ever experienced, is sim- same way that Ani DiFranco is her most accomplished, ply whetting our appetites inspired imitators, it’s easy to accessible and enjoyable. for his forthcoming album. imagine girl bands planning Still in her 20s, Carlile is Songs such as the delec- to follow in Tegan and Sara’s a seasoned performer, hav- table “No Sissies,” sinis- distinctive footsteps. ing recently toured with the ter “Tarantulove,” “Sweet “Sainthood” contains all of Indigo Girls (again). Hallelujah” (which lands softly the elements that have made She wastes no time reel- somewhere between fellow Tegan and Sara so popular ing us in with the amaz- Canadians Leonard Cohen — the unique lyrical perspec- ing “Looking Out” and fol- and Rufus Wainwright), the tive, the way their voices spill lows it with equally enticing exquisite acoustic “Safe and over each other like waves, numbers, including “Dying Sound,” and the crazy com- their masterful musician- Day,” “Dreams,” “That Twins Tegan and Sara. Their new release is “Sainthood.” fort of “Paper Shoes” are ship. Alluring tunes include Year,” “Caroline,” “Before It proof that Workman is one “On Directing,” “Red Belt,” Breaks,” “If There Was No of a kind. the thrashing “Northshore,” You” and “Oh Dear.” I advise you to also snag the biting and blubbering Workman’s 2001 master- “Alligator,” the fluid “The “I Bought A Blue work “(Last Night We Were) Ocean” and the compelling Car Today” The Delicious Wolves,” which “Someday.” Alan Cumming, contains the irresistible Yellow Sound “Jealous of your Cigarette.” “Music For Men” It wouldn’t take much Gossip, Columbia effort to eviscerate “I Bought “Origon: Beth Ditto of the Gossip A Blue Car Today” by out Orphan” is another visible out musi- star of stage and screen Alan The Hidden Cameras, cian who has broken down Cumming. His unique vocal Arts & Crafts barriers and received acclaim style probably isn’t to all O, Canada! The Hidden and adoration. A brash and tastes, even those with the Cameras also hail from that brazen southern belle, Ditto least bit of affection for the mighty land to our north, and her band mates blaze theatrical or the absurd. but “Origin: Orphan” opens through 13 tunes on “Music However, I want to com- on an exotic note with the For Men,” leaving ashes and mend Mr. C for the notable Middle Eastern-influenced asses shaking in their wake. chances he took on his “Ratify The New.” Then, Equally adept at belt- debut album. “Wig In A Box/ before you know it, Joel ing bluesy numbers such as Wicked Little Town” from Gibb and company return to “8th Wonder,” “Dimestore “Hedwig and the Angry their delirious and suggestive Diamond” and “The Inch” is a fit for Cumming. chamber pop roots. Breakdown” as she is at So are his renditions of Sexually active cuts, such strutting like a disco diva on songs by John Bucchino as “He Falls to Me,” “Colour “Love Long Distance,” “Pop (“Expressed”) and William of a Man” and “Kingdom Goes The World,” “Men In Finn (“What More Can I Come,” indicate Gibb still Love,” “Love And Let Love,” Say”), as well as “Where I has men on his mind. And Beth Ditto is a true original Want To Be” from “Chess” he proves himself to be a and Gossip is something to and Jimmy Webb’s “All I romantic, both hopeless and talk about. Know.” That said, Cumming hopeful, on “In The NA” and falls short on the remainder “Do I Belong.” “Give Up The of the selections, includ- Diverse Music Ghost” ing “Shine” (co-written “Sainthood” Brandi Carlile, by “Three Penny Opera” for a Diverse city Tegan and Sara, Columbia co-star Cyndi Lauper) and Sire/Vapor As queer voices go, Brandi bad homages to Sinatra Keeping with the Canadian Carlile, who performs at The and Dolly (“That’s Life” and www.radiomilwaukee.org theme, out twin sisters Tegan Pabst, Jan. 21, has one for “Here You Come Again”). 16 WISCONSING A Z E TT E .COM | January 14, 2010 community listings Milwaukee Bay View Gays, 414-482- Court St., 414-272-9442. of Wisconsin, 820 N. Milwaukee Friends Marquette Univ. Gay/ Arts/entertainment 3796, www.bvgays.com. Lesbian Fund of the Plankinton Ave., 414-273- Meeting (Quakers), 3224 N. Straight Alliance, 1442 W. Cream City Squares, 414- BWMT Milwaukee (Black Women’s Fund of Greater 1991. Gordon Place. Wisconsin Ave. 445-8080. & White Men Together), P.O. Milwaukee, 316 N. BEST Clinic, 1240 E. Brady Plymouth Church, 2717 E. Project Q, 315 W. Court Men’s Voices Milwaukee Box 1091475, Milwaukee, Milwaukee Street, Suite 215, St., 414-272-2144. Hampshire Ave., Milwaukee, St., Suite 101, 414-223-3220. Chorus, Plymouth Church, 53209, 414-463-5359. 414-290-7350, www.wom- Diverse and Resilient, 414-964-1513. Rainbow Alliance at 2717 E. Hampshire St., CONNEXUS/African ensfund.com. 2439 N. Holton St., St. James Episcopal UWM, 220 E. Kenwood Ave., Shorewood, 414-964-1513. American LGBT Social and LOC/Women of color, 414-390-0444, Church, 833 W. 414-229-6555. Milwaukee Gay Arts Educational Program, 2439 P.O. Box 93594, Milwaukee, www.diverse- Wisconsin Ave., UWM LGBT Resource Center, 703 S. Second St., N. Holton, Milwaukee, WI WI 53203, 414-263-1631. andresilient. 414-271-1340. Center, UWM Union WG89, 414-383-3727. 53212, 414-390-0444. Log Cabin Republicans, org. www.uwm.edu/Dept/OSL/ Milwaukee LGBT Film/ Cream City Foundation, P.O. Box 199, Milwaukee, Galano Sports LGBT. Video Festival, 414-229 759 N. Milwaukee St., Suite 53201, 414-755-1954. Club, 315 Front 4758, www4.uwm.edu/psoa/ 212, 414-225-0244. Milwaukee Lesbian W. Court Runners, 414- Kenosha programs/film/lgbtfilm. Equality Wisconsin, 2717 Gay Bisexual Transgender Street, Suite 332-1527. Religion/spirituality Queer Program, P.O. Box E. Hampshire, Milwaukee, Community Center, 315 W. 201-A, 414- GAMMA- Bradford Community 090441, Milwaukee, 53209, 53211, 414-431-1306, www. Court St., Suite 101, 414- 276-6936. Milwaukee, P.O. Church-Unitarian 414-265-8500. equalitywi.org. 271-2656, www.mkelgbt.org. Health Box 1900, Milwaukee, Universalist, 5810 8th Ave., Queer Zine Archive Firebirds, P.O. Box 159, Milwaukee LGBT History Institute of WI 53201-1900, www. 262-656-0544. Project, 2935 N. Fratney St. Milwaukee, 53201. Project, 414-224-0517, www. Milwaukee, 1817 N. Martin milwaukeegamma.com Shoreline Country FORGE, PO Box 1272, mkelgbthist.org. Luther King Drive, Suite 3, Metro Milwaukee Tennis Madison Dancers, 818 S. Water St. Milwaukee, WI 53201, www. PFLAG-Milwaukee, 315 W. 414-263-9999. Club, 414-616-3716. Arts/entertainment (Hot Water Bar), www. forge-forward.org. Court St., 414-299-9198. Milwaukee Women’s Milwaukee Gay Soccer Dairyland Cowboys shoreline-milw.org. G/L Community Center, Pridefest, 315 W. Court Center, 611 N. Broadway, League, 1012 E. Clarke St., and Cowgirls, Club 5, 5 Wisconsin Cream City 904 S. 1st St., 414-643-1652. St., Suite 203, 414-272-3378, Suite 230, 414-272-6199. 414-405-5878, www.milwau- Applegate Court, 608-277- Chorus, 315 W. Court St., G/L Community Trust www.pridefest.com. Walker’s Point keegaysoccer.org. 9700. Suite 101, 414-276-8787. Fund, P.O. Box 1686, Pride Parade, www.pride- Community Clinic, 611 W. Milwaukee Gay Volleyball Women’s Voices Milwaukee, WI 53201, 414- parademke.com. National Ave., Suite 400, League, http://milwaukeegay- Community Milwaukee, 315 W. Court St., 643-1652. SHEBA/Sisters Helping 414-384-1400. volleyball.com. OutReach, 600 Williamson womensvoicesmilwaukee@ Gemini Gender Group, Each other Battle AIDS, Saturday Softball Beer St., 608-255-8582, www.lgb- gmail.com, 414-534-5645. P.O. Box 44211, Milwaukee, 2439 N. Holton, Milwaukee, Religion/spirituality League, 2333 N. 56th St., toutreach.org. WI 53214. WI 53212, 414-390-0444. Central United Methodist 414-350-7147, www.ssblmil- Community Lesbian Alliance, 315 W. WanderWomyn Church, 639 N. 25th St., waukee.com. Politics Outdoors Group, deby- 414-344-1600. Fair Wisconsin, 122 State,

3251 N. Holton Street • Milwaukee, WI 53212 [email protected]. Congregation Shir Youth/education Suite 500, 608-441-0143, Phone 414-264-8800 Washington Heights Hadash, 414-297-9159, Alliance School, 850 W. www.actionwisconsin.com. Rainbow Association, 414- www.cshmilw.org. Walnut St., 414-227-2550, 217-1571, on Facebook. Cross Lutheran Church, www.allianceschool.org. Sports SAGE Milwaukee, 1845 N. 1821 N. 16th St., 414-344- Alliance for LGBTQ Madison Gay Hockey Farwell Ave., Suite 220, 414- 1746. Youth, 1212 S. 70th St., 414- Association, www.madison- 224-0517. Divine Word Lutheran 453-1400, www.cssw.org. gayhockey.org/ Wisconsin Rainbow Church, 5505 W. Lloyd St., Gay Youth Milwaukee, P.O. Madison Volleyball Group, SPECIALTIES CLINIC Families, 315 W. Court St., 414-476-3189. Box 090441, Milwaukee, WI 608-251-8716 Room 112, info@wirain- First Unitarian Society of 53209, 414-265-8500. Check out our Website bowfamilies.com. Milwaukee, 1342 N. Astor LGBT Resource Center www.stdspecialties.org St., 414-273-5257. a UWM, U.W.-M. Student Racine Business Lake Park Lutheran Union, P.O. Box 413, Community Gay & Lesbian Tavern Church, 2647 N. Stowell Milwaukee, 53201, 414-229- LGBT Center of Diagnosis and Treatment of Guild, 209 E. National Ave. Ave., 414-962-9190. 4116. Southeast Wisconsin, 1456 Sexually Transmitted Diseases Metropolitan Community Marquette U G/L Alumni, Junction Ave., 262-664-4100, Health Church, 1239 W. Mineral St., P.O. Box 92722, Milwaukee, www.lgbtsewisc.org.

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copyright 2008 Kevin Flahaut - free to use but may not be redistributed WISCONSING A Z E TT E .COM | January 14, 2010 17 Loving tribute to ‘Ambassador of Love’

By Harry Cherkinian from beneath her tough exte- WiG Contributing Writer rior. White deftly showcased She was sassy. She was this range, jumping from the sexual. Yet, she could be very Theater take-charge “A Woman’s serious at the uptick of her WiGOUT Prerogative” to the ballad of feather boa. And all with an “Frankie and Johnny,” a story attitude that was as forceful dotes. Co-written by the of doomed love that had the as it was playful. show’s star Roz White and audience in the palm of her Pearl Bailey was an all- director Thomas W. Jones II, hands. “When love don’t around entertainer for many the show made its debut in work, Smith and Wesson of her 72 years, starring on Washington, D.C., in 2008. will,” White quipped after stage (where she was best At last week’s opening, “Pearl the song. known for her turn as Dolly Bailey” was as energetic and Bailey was known for Levi in an all-black version vibrant as the multi-colored audience participation, and of “Hello Dolly”) as well as costumes and flamboyant this show also literally pulls screen and television. And hats and shoes that were in — make that pulls up now the woman dubbed among Bailey’s trademarks. — men onto their feet to America’s “Ambassador of White captured many dance with the performer. Love” takes to the stage once of Bailey’s signature moves At the heart of this produc- again in “Pearl Bailey…By and sounds, from the deep, tion’s strength is the tal- Request,” which opened in throaty voice to the sexual ented trio of local veteran The Rep’s Stackner Cabaret innuendo and take-no-pris- musicians backing White: P h oto : J ay W e s t h au s e r last weekend. oners directness for which music director and pianist Don Linke, Roz White and William Knowles in “Pearl Bailey … By The 75-minute tribute the star was known. William Knowles, bassist Request” at The Rep in Milwaukee features 15 of Bailey’s most Bailey was a diva before Don Linke and drummer requested songs of jazz, the term was coined, yet she Dave Bayles. the crowd. Request” runs through Feb. Complex in Milwaukee. For swing and Broadway tunes could move easily within a “Just tell me how you like The response? Just fine, 28 in The Rep’s Stackner more information, call 414- set against childhood sto- range of emotions, allowing my personality,” cooed White Pearly Mae. Just fine. Cabaret located in the 224-9490 or visit www.mil- ries and show business anec- her vulnerability to bubble up early on, while settling in with “Pearl Bailey… By Patty & Jay Baker Theater waukeerep.com. Cooler near the lake

The Knick Our friend Carrie is one 1030 E. Juneau of those sporty lesbians who Milwaukee, WI Dining can eat just about anything (414) 272-0011 By Rick Karlin and still stay thin (hate her for theknickrestaurant.com that!). She tried one of the daily specials, a Brie omelet. Located in the red grapefruit vodka, orange Fluffy eggs were sautéed with Knickerbocker on the Lake juice, Champagne and pine- slivers of crisp asparagus and hotel, the Knick is a hip, attrac- apple vodka. topped with a huge slab of tive restaurant that draws an The extensive brunch menu melted Brie. The dish came equally hip and attractive cli- features all the usual suspects with toast and a side bowl of entele. — omelets, pancakes and basic fruit topped with yogurt and But you won’t find attitude egg dishes. honey. Carrie found the dish on the menu here. When we However, it was the more delectable, but too rich to fin- waddled in one cold morning unusual dishes that caught our ish — which might give a hint for a blow-out brunch before eyes. Crab hash combines as to how she stays so fit. our New Year’s diets began, crispy hash browns with A neighboring table got everyone from the hostess crabmeat and onions, then another of the day’s specials to the servers was friendly tops it off with two eggs any — French toast bites. The and eager to please. style. I thought the potatoes mound of marshmallow-sized Shortly after being shown could have been crispier, but pieces of egg bread dipped in to our table, our server was overruled by my spouse cinnamon and sugar looked stopped by to check in and our friend Carrie. too good to resist, so we and take coffee and cock- I opted for the breakfast decided to split it as a dessert. tail orders. Normally, I’m pasta, and I think I’ve found a The dish was pure heaven, not much of a drinker early new favorite dish. Fettuccine topped with whiskey butter in the morning, but the pasta is tossed with scram- and maple syrup. We each ate Queen Mary caught my eye: bled eggs, onions, tomatoes about three cubes and took a 22-ounce tower of spicy and bacon, then topped with the rest home for another tomato juice garnished with Parmesan cheese and bread- day. blackened shrimp, celery, a crumbs, making for a hearty cherry pepper, pickle and olive. and satisfying meal. There was The Bottom Line: It was delicious and guaranteed just enough grease to this Brunch will run about $15 a to burn off any morning fog. dish to make it the perfect person, including tax, tip and Other unusual brunch cock- hangover remedy. A few grinds non-alcoholic beverage. Add tails include the “Manmosa,” a of black pepper were all it another $10 for a specialty combination of Absolut ruby needed. cocktail. 18 WISCONSING A Z E TT E .COM | January 14, 2010

Wisconsin Gazette and M’s Bar present Out & About Milwaukee. mikeysmilwaukee.com. www.walkerspint.com. Ballgame, 196 S. Trendy bar. Neighborhood bar. Second St., 414-273-7474. MOCT, 240 E. Pittsburgh Whiskey Bar, 788 N. Sports bar. Ave., 414-273-6628, www. Jackson St., 414-312-8566, Boom, 625 S. Second St., themoct.com. Dance club. whiskeybarmilwaukee.com. 414-277-5040. www.boom- Out ‘n About and Trendy bar, dance floor. $3 Vodka drinks mke.com. Neighborhood bar. Mona’s Restaurant, 1407 Woody’s, 1579 S. the $2 MillerLite Cafe Centraal, 2306 S. S. 1st St., 414- 643-0377, Second St., 414-672-0806, Kinnickinnic Ave., 414-755- www.m-o-n-a-s.com. www.woodys-mke.com. Draughts 0378, thecafecentraal.com. Nightclub/restaurant. Sports bar/drag. Bar, restaurant, music. Nessun Dorma, 2778 Cuvee Lounge, 177 N. Weil St., 414-264-8466, Kenosha N. Broadway, 414-225- nessundormariverwest. Club Icon, 6305 120th 9800, www.cuveemke.com. com. Neighborhood bar and Ave., 262-857-3240, www. Cocktail lounge. eatery. club-icon.com. Dance club. Elsa’s on the Park, Redroom, 1875 N. 833 N. Jefferson, 414-765- Humboldt Ave., 414-224- Madison 0615, elsas.com. Upscale 7666. Neighborhood bar. Club 5, 5 Applegate lounge. Suite, 1103 Old World Court, 608-277-8700, www. Fluid, 819 S. Second St., Third Street, 414-270-9653. club-5.com. Nightclub. 414-643-5843, fluid.gaymke. Dance club, lounge. Plan B, 924 Williamson GAYme com. Cocktail lounge Taylor’s, 795 N. St., www.planbmadison.com. Kenadee’s Jefferson St., 414- Nightclub. Ultra Pub, 271-2855, tay- Shamrock, 117 W. 725 N. lorsmilwaukee. Main St., 608-255-5029, Milwaukee, com. Trendy www.shamrockbar.com. 414-431-5556, lounge. Neighborhood bar/dining. Win show! kenadees. This Is Woof’s, 114 King St., com. Trendy It, 418 E. 608-204-6222, www.woofs- bar. Wells St., 414- madison.com. Sports bar. Fabulous Kruz, 278-9192, www. 354 E. National thisisitbar.com. Racine Prizes! Ave., 414-272-5789. Cocktail lounge. Jo’Dee’s Friday, January 15, 2010 Neighborhood bar. Trocadero, 1758 Water International, 2139 La Cage, 801 S. Second St., 414-272-0205, ztrocade- Racine St., 262-634-9804, 7-10 p.m. St., 414-383-8330, www. ro.com. Hip bar, restaurant. www.jodeesintl.com. At M’s Bar, 1101 S. 2nd Street in Walker’s Point lacagemke.com. Dance bar. Tropical Night Club, Neighborhood bar. M’s, 1101 S. Second St., 626 S. Fifth St., 414-460- (corner of 2nd and Washington) 414-383-8900. Piano bar. 6277. Latino dance club. To get listed e-mail Mikey’s, 811 N. Walker’s Pint, 818 S. managingeditor@ Jefferson, 414-273-5397, Second St., 414-643-7468, wisconsingazette.com.

GAY TRIVIA CONTEST Jan. 14, Thursday Main in Madison. Info: 608- Test your knowledge of LGBT history, Elvis-heads unite and 819-8777. delight when The Northern On stage Jan. 16, Saturday camp culture, classic Hollywood, Lights Theater at Potawatomi Hotel Milwaukee, the divas past & present Bingo Casino, 1721 W. Canal, By Gregg Shapiro comedy-variety radio pro- hosts a “Tribute To The King” gram that aired on Wisconsin starring Ryan Pelton, tonight E. Washington in Madison, Public Radio from 1994-2002, Prizes Furnished By: and tomorrow night at 7:30 welcomes Dustin Zahn at 10 tapes a reunion show before p.m. Info: 414-847-7922. p.m. Info: 608-268-1122. a live audience, followed u Jan. 15, Friday R e n a i s s a n c e by performances by Katie The Milwaukee Forward Theater Company Theaterworks’ produc- Todd Band, Jim Liban, Terry Repertory Theatre presents Christopher tion of “Blackbird” by David Coffman, Tom Schwark and Durang’s “Why Torture Harrower, directed by Susan John Will Balsley, plus the u Is Wrong, and the People Fete and featuring Carrie house band with pianist Dean The Pabst Theater, Who Love Them,” opening Coon and Brian Mani, opens Lee and jazz singer Adekola tonight and running through tonight and runs through Adedapo at 7:30 p.m. in The Riverside & Turner Hall Jan. 17 in The Playhouse at Feb. 7 at Broadway Theatre Turner Hall Ballroom, 103 N. u the Overture Center for the Center, 158 N. Broadway. 4th. Info: 414-286-3663. The Tool Shed Arts, 201 State in Madison. Info: 414-291-7800. Stackner Cabaret pres- Info: 608-258-4141. Shank Hall, 1434 N. ents Roz White starring in u Quadracci Powerhouse Farwell, has The Maze, Vega “Pearl Bailey…By Request” Samara Studios Theater presents “Yankee Star and Hayward Williams through Feb. 28 at Milwaukee Tavern” by Steven Dietz at 8 p.m. Info: 414-276-7288. Repertory Theater, 108 E. u tonight through Jan. 31 at Sexy Ester and The Pretty Wells. Info: 414-224-9490. Regency Florist Milwaukee Repertory Mama Sisters, Mike Droho Jayme Dawicki and Ari u Theater, 108 E. Wells. Info: and the Compase Rose and Herstand play Shank Hall, Scott Malcom, singer/songwriter 414-224-9490. Fermata performs at 10 p.m. 1434 N. Farwell, at 8 p.m. High Noon Saloon, 701A at The Frequency, 121 W. On stage next page WISCONSING A Z E TT E .COM | January 14, 2010 19 Beddy bye Hello 2010 fundamentally rethink the Tell mama TMZ terrific Rants, I truly believe in a luxuri- And a happy little ol’ new underpinnings of the nation’s You thought you had TMZ.com is better than ous bed too. Want to see? year to ya’ll. growth. found a good girl/One to drugs. Raves & love you and give you the Kids say… Naughty Thanks world/Now you’ve found Tell mama Other My 5-year-old niece asked oughts George that you’ve been misused/ That girl you had didn’t me about the origins of chil- From the Washington OK, now we have some Talk to me, I’ll do what you have no sense/She wasn’t Remarks dren. She says she wants to Post: For most of the past history to judge. Can we choose, I want you worth all the time that you have two, but she says if she 70 years, the U.S. econo- all agree to… spent. has to have them the way my has grown at a steady t h a t she thinks they are had, she clip, generating perpetually G e o r g e Forecast Hey doll might change her mind. I higher incomes and wealth W. Bush !@#$?* Tomorrow: Cold Barbie’s actual name is totally understand. for American households. was the and gray. June: Barbara Millicent Roberts. But since 2000, the story w o r s t Sunshine and pride. It’s true. I found it on the 2009 is starkly different. The past president Web. The last year had to be decade was the worst for ever? Even Richard Nixon. Calling the the absolute worst year of the U.S. economy in modern Because Nixon was smart comic Umm… my life. Now, don’t we need times, a sharp reversal from and knew what he was doing. Hey, where’s the writer Something on your Marriage = 1 man + 1 hope? And change? a long period of prosper- Bush was a puppet. with the Tiger Woods jokes? mind? Go to woman. Everything else = ity that is leading econo- Come back. Isn’t there a sex www.wisconsingazette.com. Not. mists and policymakers to tape to laugh about? Now.

On stage On Stage from 18 tonight through Wednesday Copperbox performs at 8 night at The Northern Lights p.m. in Shank Hall, 1434 N. Theater at Potawatomi Bingo Farwell. Info: 414-276-7288. Info: 414-276-7288. Casino, 1721 W. Canal. Info: The Frequency, 121 The Frequency, 121 W. 414-847-7922. W. Main in Madison, has Main in Madison, welcomes Jan. 20, Wednesday Meteorade with Rescue The Goodyear Pimps with The Rave, 2401 W. School and The Selfish Gene Axiom and Perverse Engineer Wisconsin, presents Nick at 10 p.m. Info: 608-819-8777. at 10 p.m. Info: 608-819-8777. Jonas & The Administration, Robert Gordon and The Jan. 17, Sunday with Diane Birch, at 6:30 p.m. Gang They Couldn’t Hang Stiemke Theater’s produc- Info: 414-342-RAVE. perform at 9 p.m. at The tion of “Almost, Maine” runs At 10 p.m., Peace Of Northern Lights Theater at through Feb. 7 at Milwaukee Mind Orchestra plays The Potawatomi Bingo Casino, Repertory Theater, 108 E. Frequency, 121 W. Main in 1721 W. Canal. Info: 414-847- Wells. Info: 414-224-9490. Madison, 7922 The 26th annual Dr. Martin with Venice Gas House HOLY F*** is at the Luther King Jr. Birthday Trolley. Info: 608-819-8777. Majestic, 115 King in Madison, Celebration in Uihlein Hall Jan. 21, Thursday at 10 p.m. Info: 608-251-2582. in the Marcus Center For Out singer/songwriter High Noon Saloon, 701A the Performing Arts, at the Brandi Carlile performs at E. Washington in Madison, corner of Water and State, 8 p.m. at The Pabst, 144 E. welcomes Tea Leaf Green On Jan. 21, out singer/songwriter Brandi Carlile performs at 8 p.m. at The includes local performing Wells. Info: 414-286-3663. and Elmwood at 9:30 p.m. Pabst, 144 E. Wells, Milwaukee. Info: 414-286-3663. arts groups and others inter- The Milwaukee Adworkers Info: 608-268-1122. preting the theme “People present The Battle of the Jan. 23, Saturday Jan. 24, Sunday The Frequency, 121 W. Jan. 28, Thursday Must Work Together,” at 1 Advertising Bands at 7 p.m. in The Pabst, 144 E. Wells, Bay View Brew Haus, Main in Madison, presents The Milwaukee premier p.m. Info: 414-273-2787. Shank Hall, 1434 N. Farwell. presents singer/songwriter 2535 S. Kinnickinnic, has The Don Chani and Dr. Dubbist of “Purgatorio” by Ariel Shank Hall, 1434 N. Farwell, Info: 414-276-7288. Michelle Branch at 8 p.m. Squeezettes at 9 p.m. Info: at 9:30 p.m. Info: 608-819- Dorfman, directed by Mary hosts the Sunday night Song The Frequency, 121 W. Info: 414-286-3663. 414-481-8060. 8777. MacDonald Kerr and featur- Swap featuring Kevn Kinney Main in Madison, has Brighton Turner Hall Ballroom, 103 Majestic, 115 King in At 7 p.m. Owl City ing Angela Iannone and David (of Drivin’ N Cryin’) and MA with Elsinore, Flight at 9 N. 4th, hosts the Pablove Madison, presents Set Your and Lights perform at the Cecsarini, opens tonight and Sammy Llanas (of BoDeans) p.m. Info: 608-819-8777. Benefit Concert featuring Goals with special guests The Majestic, 115 King in Madison. runs through Feb. 21 at Next at 8 p.m. Info: 414-276-7288. Jan. 22, Friday Fever Marlene, The Gufs, The Swellers at 7 p.m. Info: 608- Info: 608-251-2582. Act Theatre, 342 N. Water. The Upwelling, Floral The Riverside, 116 W. Lackloves, Maritime, Mike 251-2582. High Noon Saloon, 701A Info: 414-278-0765. Terrace, Collide and Scope Wisconsin, presents No Benign, Old Man Malcolm, Pet Jan. 26, Tuesday E. Washington in Madison, Howie Day and Serena perform at 8 p.m. at The Reservations: An Evening Engine and Truth in Fiction at “Rent,” featuring Adam has Whitney Mann and the Ryder perform at 8 p.m. in Frequency, 121 W. Main in with Anthony Bourdain at 8 7 p.m. Info: 414-286-3663. Pascal and Anthony Rapp Cutouts at 6 p.m. Info: 608- Shank Hall, 1434 N. Farwell. Madison. Info: 608-819-8777. p.m. Info: 414-286-3205. Shank Hall, 1434 N. Farwell, from the original Broadway 268-1122. Info: 414-276-7288. Bowerbirds, Sharon Van Heather Moran pres- welcomes Ryan Magner at 8 production and film adapta- Jan. 27, Wednesday The Frequency, 121 W. Etten and Peter Wolf Crier ents “Rosie! A Tribute to p.m. Info: 414-276-7288. tion, opens tonight and runs Breakers Broken and Main in Madison, presents are at High Noon Saloon, Rosemary Clooney,” tonight The Hood Internet, through Jan. 31 at Overture Stereotype play The The Bloodsugars and Miles 701A E. Washington in and tomorrow night at 8 The New Loud and OCD Center for the Arts, 201 Frequency, 121 W. Main in Nielsen at 10 p.m. Info: 608- Madison at 8 p.m. Info: 608- p.m. at the Sharon Lynne Automatic are at High Noon State in Madison. Info: 608- Madison, at 9:30 p.m. Info: 819-8777. 268-1122. Wilson Center for the Arts, Saloon, 701A E. Washington 258-4141. 608-819-8777. Jan. 18, Monday 19805 W. Capitol Drive in in Madison at 10 p.m. Info: Langhorne Slim is at Turner Country favorite Phil Brookfield. Info: (262) 781- 608-268-1122. Hall Ballroom, 103 N. 4th, at Send listings to gshapiro@ Vassar performs at 8 p.m. 9520. 8 p.m. Info: 414-286-3663. wisconsingazette.com.

GET THE WISCONSIN GAZETTE DELIVERED. CALL 414-961-3240 20 WISCONSING A Z E TT E .COM | January 14, 2010

Calendarwhat’s going on? Ongoing Mondays, Wednesdays- Lesbian Alliance movie night, HIV/AIDS group, OutReach, Saturday Lutheran Church 2647 Tuesday Saturdays, the LGBT Center LGBT Community Center, 600 Williamson St., Madison. 9 a.m., Frontrunners N. Stowell, Milwaukee. 12:30 p.m., third Thursday, of SE Wisconsin, 1456 315 W. Court St., Milwaukee. Info: 608-255-8582, www. Milwaukee Run Walk, start- Info: www.iagsdc.org/ Retired Old/Older Lesbians Junction Ave., Racine, holds Info: 414-272-9442; www. lgbtoutreach.org. ing at the Water Tower creamcity/#Calendar. (ROLLers), Madison. Info: drop-in hours. Info: www. lesbianalliance.org. 6 p.m., second Fridays, at the East end of North 7 p.m., AA The Big Book 608-219-7751. lgbtsewisc.org, 262-664- 7 p.m., AA Living Sober; Lesbian Alliance game Avenue, Milwaukee. Info: Meeting, The Galano Club, 5 p.m., AA Over 40, and 7 4100. 7 p.m., Crystal Meth night and potluck, LGBT 262-285-7645. 315 W. Court St., No. 201, p.m. AA The Blue Group, The Anonymous, The Galano Community Center, 315 W. 9 a.m., Frontrunners/ Milwaukee. Info: 414-276- Galano Club, 315 W. Court Thursday Club, 315 W. Court St., No. Court St., Milwaukee. Info: Frontwalkers Madison, 6936, galanoclub.org. St., No. 201, Milwaukee. Info: 201, Milwaukee. Info: 414- 414-272-9442; www.lesbia- Wingra Park off Monroe 5 p.m., OutThere LGBT 414-276-6936, galanoclub. 2:30 p.m., first and third 276-6936, galanoclub.org. nalliance.org. Street, Madison. Info: 469- youth group meeting, org. Thursdays, LGBT senior 6 p.m., QGrads, UW 7 p.m., AA, The Galano 4882 OutReach-Gateway Mall, adults discussion, Madison Memorial Union Rathskeller, Club, 315 W. Court St., No. 6 p.m., AA The Women’s 600 Williamson St., Madison. Wednesday Senior Center, 330 W. Mifflin 800 Langdon St., Madison. 201, Milwaukee. Info: 414- Light Meeting; 7:30 p.m., Info: 608-255-8582. St., Madison. Info: fering- 7:30 p.m., Four Lakes 276-6936, galanoclub.org. Spiritual Light, The Galano 7 p.m., AA 12 Steps and [email protected]. Bears, Michelangelo’s Coffee 8:30 p.m., second and Club, 315 W. Court St., No. Monday 12 Traditions, The Galano 6 p.m., third Thursdays, Shop, 114 State St., Madison. fourth Fridays, Shoreline 201, Milwaukee. Info: 414- Club, 315 W. Court St., No. same-sex parents group, Info: 608-251-5299. Milwaukee line dancing and 276-6936, galanoclub.org. 7:30 p.m., AA Came 201, Milwaukee. Info: 414- OutReach, 600 Williamson lessons, Hot Water, 818 S. to Believe, The Galano 276-6936, galanoclub.org. St., Madison. Info: 608-255- Friday Water St., Milwaukee. Info: Sunday Club, 315 W. Court St., No. 8582, www.lgbtoutreach. 414-383-7593, www.shore- 201, Milwaukee. Info: 414- Send listings to org. 5:30 p.m., second and line-milw.org. 1 p.m., Cream City 276-6936, galanoclub.org. managingeditor@ 7 p.m., third Thursdays, fourth Fridays, Pozitive Lite Squares dances, Lake Park wisconsingazette.com.

The next two weeks Save the dates Cream City Foundation hosts a fundraiser Feb. Thursday 703 S. Second St., Milwaukee. Junction Ave., Racine. Info: Friday 6 featuring Marvin Hamlisch and the Milwaukee Jan. 14 8 p.m., Madison Gay 262-664-4100, wwwlgbt- Jan. 22 Symphony Orchestra, 6:30 p.m. at Marcus Center for Read WiG. Video Club, “Redwoods” and sewisc.org. 7 p.m., GAMMA dining out the Performing Arts, 929 N. Water St. Advance tickets Friday “Reckless.” Info: www.mgvc. Tuesday night. Info: www.milwaukee- are $50 or $75 at the door. Call (414) 225-0244 or go org. gamma.com. to creamcityfoundation.org. Jan. 15 Sunday Jan. 19 Saturday *** 6 p.m., WanderWomyn 7 p.m., SOFFA Support The ACLU of Wisconsin’s Bill of Rights Celebration Social/Outdoor Group, Jan. 17 Network drop-in, OutReach, Jan. 23 is set for 6 p.m. Feb. 20 at the Hotel Intercontinental in Mona’s Chat and Dance, 1 p.m., Martin Luther 600 Williamson St., Madison. 7 p.m., Equality Illinois gala Milwaukee. The event features dinner, a reception and Milwaukee area. Info: deby- King Jr. Birthday Celebration Info: 608-255-8582, www.lgb- Justice for All, Hilton Chicago, a keynote speech by Air America correspondent and [email protected]. “People Must Work toutreach.org. 720 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago. Wonkette founder Ana Marie Cox. RSVP: Feb. 13. Info: Saturday Together,” Marcus Center 7:30 p.m., GAMMA Info: 773-477-7173, www. [email protected] or 414-272-4032, ext. 18. for the Performing Arts, 123 sheepshead. Info: www.mil- equalityillinois.org. Jan. 16 E. State St., Milwaukee. Info: waukeegamma.com. Monday 2 p.m., WanderWomyn www.marcuscenter.org. “Little House on the Social/Outdoor Group 1 p.m., New Year, New Prairie,” through Jan. 24, Jan. 25 Coming up Info: 414-383-3727. watches UWM vs. UW You goals-setting program, Overture Center, Madison. 7:30 p.m., GAMMA bridge Feb. 2, 7 p.m., Share-A- Green Bay basketball. Info: LGBT Center of Southeast Thursday night. Info: www.milwaukee- Jan. 29, 7 p.m., movie Bration open house at the [email protected]. Wisconsin, 1456 Junction gamma.com. night — “Love Actually,” Milwaukee Gay Arts Center, 7 p.m., WanderWomyn Ave., Racine. Info: 262-664- Jan. 21 Tuesday LGBT Center of Southeast 703 S. Second St., Milwaukee. Social/Outdoor Group roller 4100, wwwlgbtsewisc.org. Read WiG. Wisconsin, 1456 Junction Hosted by Joseph Pabst, Bill derby game (see below). Info: Monday 6 p.m., Quit Group Jan. 26 Ave., Racine. Info: 262-664- Serpe, Michael Lisowski, Gary [email protected]. tobacco cessation pro- “Rent,” through Jan. 31, 4100, wwwlgbtsewisc.org. Gussick and Craig Bodoh. 7 p.m., Brew City Bruisers Jan. 18 gram, Milwaukee LGBT Overture Center for the Jan. 30, 12:30 p.m., Blue Info: 414-460-3253. Opening Bout, Milwaukee Martin Luther King. Jr.’s Community Center, 315 Arts, Madison. Moon Careers Pathing County Sports Complex, birthday. West Court St., Milwaukee. Wednesday Group, LGBT Center of 6000 W. Ryan Road, Franklin. 6 p.m., domestic violence/ Info: 414-292-3066. Southeast Wisconsin, 1456 7 p.m., GAMMA game assault resources, OutReach, 7 p.m., movie night — Jan. 27 Junction Ave., Racine. Info: night, Milwaukee. Info: www. 600 Williamson St., Madison. “Amancio: Two Faces on a 6:30 p.m., Q Cinema 262-664-4100, wwwlgbt- milwaukeegamma.com. Info: 608-255-8582, www.lgb- Tombstone,” LGBT Center International Film Group sewisc.org. 8 p.m., Shaia’s second toutreach.org. of Southeast Wisconsin, 1456 watches “Fire,” OutReach, Jan. 31, 2 p.m., God and annual Beach Blanket Bingo 7:30 p.m., gender identity Junction Ave., Racine. Info: 600 Williamson St., Madison. Gays One Act Play Festival, Send listings to Hafla Belly Dance Party, support group, LGBT Center 262-664-4100, wwwlgbt- Info: 608-255-8582, www.lgb- Milwaukee Gay Arts Center, managingeditor@ Milwaukee Gay Arts Center, of Southeast Wisconsin, 1456 sewisc.org. toutreach.org. 703 S. Second St., Milwaukee. wisconsingazette.com. WISCONSING A Z E TT E .COM | January 14, 2010 21 LET OUR SALES TEAM HELP YOU. CALL 414-961-3240 TODAY! real estate Mortgage 101 ‘The cash this. We have more stability New than many areas.” needed to First-time home- buyer loans. First-time game, purchase a homebuyers who are buy- home affects ing a home or condominium new can obtain a loan backed a buyer’s by the Federal Housing Administration for up to rules for overall ability $410,000. These loans offer several benefits: credit scores to qualify are not taken into consid- buying eration as much and the for home minimum down payment is just three and a half percent. a new financing.’ While these loans do carry mortgage insurance, it’s at home for buyers today are down a reduced rate and interest payment and closing costs,” rates are whatever the pre- Inzeo says. “The cash needed vailing marketplace rate is, By Kerrie Kennedy to purchase a home affects no matter what your credit WiG Staff Writer a buyer’s overall ability to score. qualify for home financing.” Borrowers should be t’s the classic catch-22. Cash reserves. You need aware that their closing costs Real estate prices are more than just a down pay- will be higher with an FHA at historic lows, mak- ment to obtain a mortgage loan — 1.5 percent of the ing it the perfect time these days. You also need loan amount is paid at clos- to buy. But most peo- some cash in the bank. Buyers ing for mortgage insurance ple can’t buy without need to show they have cash (about $6,000 on a $400,000 getting a mortgage, reserves equal to at least loan). But these fees can be and today, that’s no easy feat. two months of mortgage financed into the loan or IThe lending landscape has payments (including property negotiated with the seller, changed so profoundly that taxes and insurance). Even who can legally pay between it seems like the only people While the process of obtaining a mortgage has become arduous, the good if a buyer can afford to put three and six percent qualified to get a loan these news is it’s not impossible. down more than 20 per- towards closing costs. days are the ones who don’t cent, it’s often better to have It can’t last. Current need one. In order to determine available to use and the less of ing expenses — the principal a down payment that’s bal- interest rates are at 40-year While the process of your credit score, pull copies it you actually use, the better and interest of your loan anced by reserve funds, Inzeo lows, but most experts say obtaining a mortgage has from all three reporting agen- it is for your credit score,” payment plus the escrows says. “Especially for first time it can’t last. “(These are) become arduous, the good cies: Trans Union, Equifax and Novel says. “Just because you required for your proper- homebuyers, I would rather unprecedented times in news is it’s not impossible. Experian. The middle score is have credit, doesn’t mean you ty taxes and homeowners see them have six months terms of interest rates, but There are a number of strat- the one that will be used to have to use it.” insurance — really shouldn’t of reserves set aside. You the Fed has signaled that egies buyers can employ in underwrite your loan. Employment history. be more then 28 percent of have to maintain a house, and by mid-2010, they will begin order to obtain a low-inter- If your score is below In the days of easy money, your gross monthly income,” that’s expensive.” to back off the monetary est loan. 620, there are a number of self-employed professionals Inzeo says. “The second Loan amount. In gen- policy,” Inzeo says. “By the Here are some of the things you can do to bring could simply state — and ratio is 36 percent of your eral, the more money you’re end of 2010, early 2011, we’ll things to consider: it up. Start paying your bills in some cases, overstate gross monthly income for trying to get, the tougher it is. start to see rates increase to Credit Score. There’s on time and pay off credit — their income in order your housing expense plus “Jumbo loan financing is very around six, six and a quarter just no getting around it: your card balances so that they’re to obtain a mortgage. No any other debt.” If payments limited today because of the range. The big question mark, credit score will affect your under 40 percent of your longer. “The days of stated on all your loans will total concern for values,” Inzeo he says, is whether we’ll begin interest rate. In fact, it will limit, says Gary Novel, presi- income loans are gone, and more than 40 percent of says. “Lenders are very skit- to see inflation as a result of affect your ability to obtain dent of the kreditguru.com. we’ve moved to a more of a your income, brace yourself tish, because they don’t know all the capital that’s been put a mortgage in the first place. Check your credit report 1980s lending style, for those for rejection. On the other if those higher-end homes into the market. If that hap- According to Wisconsin to make sure you don’t have of us who have been around hand, compensating factors will hold value.” While it’s pens, we could begin to see Mortgage Corporation vice any collection accounts — that long,” Inzeo says. “You’ll might include such things as not uncommon for lenders rates increase faster, in 2011 president John Inzeo, the unpaid parking tickets, medi- need to show two years of cash reserves or a strong to seek two appraisals on a or 2012. Until then, the triple absolute rock bottom score cal bills and utility bills tend stable employment and a credit history. jumbo loan, the recent U.S. bonus of newly affordable needed in order to qualify for to be the most common cul- strong two-year income his- Down payment. No housing report may help real estate, low interest rates a mortgage is 620. prits — and don’t apply for tory that’s verifiable.” down payment loans? A thing lessen some of the concerns. and a tax incentive make this “The minimum used to any new credit, since that Overall debt. Just of the past. Buyers should “What we’re seeing is a bet- an incredible time to invest in be 580, but now, even on an lowers your score. how much house can you not only expect to fork over ter understanding, especially real estate.” FHA loan, you’ll need to have And though it may be afford to buy? The answer at least 20 percent for a in the Midwest, of where the a score that’s 620 or higher,” tempting, don’t close any is not only determined by down payment, they’ll need market’s strengths and weak- Got a real estate idea for WiG? Inzeo says. “But even that credit cards when you pay how much money you make enough cash to cover closing nesses lie,” Inzeo says. “The Want to talk up your neighbor- doesn’t guarantee that your them off. — but also by how much costs as well. Midwest will typically lead hood? E-mail managingedi- loan is going to be approved.” “The more credit you have you owe. “Your total hous- “The two biggest obstacles housing out of a cycle like [email protected]. 22 WISCONSING A Z E TT E .COM | January 14, 2010 LET OUR SALES TEAM HELP YOU. CALL 414-961-3240 TODAY! classifieds For Rent showing, www.eastmore.com

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It’s more you.

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Happiness. Raymond Carver

So early it’s still almost dark out. I’m near the window with coffee, and the usual early morning stuff that passes for thought.

When I see the boy and his friend walking up the road to deliver the newspaper. I think if they could, they would take each other’s arm. It’s early in the morning, and they are doing this thing together.

They come on, slowly. The sky is taking on light, though the moon still hangs pale over the water.

Such beauty that for a minute death and ambition, even love, doesn’t enter into this.

Happiness. It comes on unexpectedly. And goes beyond, really, any early morning talk about it.

Mandel Group.

Our passion: Views that inspire you. Dynamic locations. Innovative interiors. Impressive service. Happy residents.

Happiness starts at home. Expect it.

View our portfolio ww.mandelgroup.com

University Club Tower, The Watermark, RiverCrest, The Point on the River, Marine Terminal Lofts, Gaslight Lofts, One at The North End, Corcoran Lofts, East Pointe Commons, Trostel Square, Library Hill, Presidio Square, Boston Lofts, Sunset Ridge, Norhardt Crossing, The Woodlands, Ravinia, Plum Tree, River’s Cove, New Fountains and Lake Bluff.

Award winning condominium and apartment homes developed and managed by Mandel Group, Inc.