TO the OCCASION Dustin Lance Black on Latest ABC Project, When We Rise by JERRY NUNN

vol 32, no. 23 Feb. 22, 2017 www.WindyCityMediaGroup.com ‘RISE’ TO THE OCCASION Dustin Lance Black on latest ABC project, When We Rise By JERRY NUNN

Dustin Lance Black not only juggles three names but usually at least three jobs with screenwriting, directing, and producing. Activism is now part of the list and author is soon to be as well. This Mormon-raised talent started in fictional gay centered short films, then SONNY DAY moved into a documentary called On the Bus. He wrote for HBO’s Big Love and Singer Sonny Apollo—from homelessness to was promoted to co-producer. success. Turn to page 16 Dustin Lance Black. Photo from Apollo 10 ABC_Image Group LA

@windycitytimes1 /windycitymediagroup @windycitytimes www.windycitymediagroup.com 2 Feb. 22, 2017 WINDY CITY TIMES Music, art and advocacy: Sleep In to benefit 13 youth homeless agencies Feb. 24

Chicago’s youth-serving homeless agencies, of the benefit, connecting through live social me- shelters and drop-in centers will benefit from dia posts during that evening. the Out in the Open Sleep In Friday night, Feb. During the 7-10 p.m. program, attendees will 24 in Chicago’s South Loop. Thirteen non-profits hear from individual youth and participate in a will come together for a night of advocacy and variety of activities. There will also be dozens of fundraising at 2nd Presbyterian Church, 1936 S. entertainers performing during the event, includ- Michigan Avenue. ing Melo Makes Music, Lucy Smith, Jess Godwin, More than 20,000 young adults and students Sonny Apollo, Yohan, Alma Mendoza, Sami Gri- are looking for a permanent home, not just over- safe, Jace, Jaymal Green, and on the church’s night shelter. beautiful organ, University of Chicago student The event will feature music and art, with Chelsie Coren. Poet e. nina jay will read from her speeches by youth who have experienced housing work. instability. New work by artist Erik R. Sosa will Fawzia Mirza, fresh off MC-ing the be for sale, with 100% of proceeds being split 250,000-strong Women’s March on Chicago, will among the nonprofits. Jasean, a youth activist, serve as MC, along with NBC Chicago’s LeeAnn will also show his work. The art show opens at Trotter. 5 p.m., and at 6 p.m., Chicago subway a cap- In addition to youth of lived experience, there pella group, The Remedy, will perform. The Out will be three special guest political speakers: in the Open Sleep In registration opens 5 p.m., Cook County State’s Attorney Kim Foxx, Illinois stage program starts at 7 p.m. While the Sleep In state Rep. Juliana Stratton and Chicago Ald. Pat is open to registered participants at www.sleep- Dowell. inchicago.org, the show portion is open to all for This year’s partner agencies are: The 750 Club a $20 donation. Apartment Adoption Project, AIDS Foundation of This is the second event raising funds for these Chicago, Broadway Youth Center of Howard Brown agencies. The first was held during a blizzard in Health, Center on Halsted, Chicago Youth Storage November 2015, and raised more than $44,000. Initiative, El Rescate, La Casa Norte, LYTE Collec- The event works like other pledge-related tive, New Moms, The Night Ministry, Pride Action events. People sign up for teams that select Tank, Teen Living Programs and Unity Parenting. which agency they are raising funds for. Individu- The event is hosted by Pride Action Tank, AIDS als can join any team to benefit any of the part- Foundation of Chicago, Edelman, agencyEA, ner agencies. Team names should also include the Windy City Times newspaper, Second Presbyterian beneficiary agency. Team members sleep in over- Church, along with a wide range of other part- night at the church, in the gym and other spaces. ners. Chicago-based rapper Taylor Bennett, who is To donate or sign up for this event as well as releasing his new album the same date, has cre- to learn more about individual teen’s stories, ated a team to raise funds for three South Side- please visit http://sleepinchicago.org/ . serving youth agencies. To volunteer or for information on team This year, the event is also able to accommo- signups, contact Jackie Thaney: JThaney@aid- date satellite events anywhere, with people cre- schicago.org. ating their own event in the city or suburbs, and For information on sponsorships, email Tracy selecting which agencies to raise funds for. This Baim, [email protected] . is perfect for schools, religious organizations or Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ families to build their own Sleep In and be part Sleep-In-Chicago-1473953326244549/ .

Pictured are just some of the performers and speakers. Left column, from top: Fawzia Mirza; The Remedy; Sami Grisafe; Melo Makes Music; Jess Godwin; Chelsie Coren. Below, L-R: Alma Mendoza, Jace; e. nina jay; Kasey White. Right column, from top: Sonny Apollo; Lee Ann Trotter; Jasean Purdie; Lucy Smith; Yohan. Mirza photo by Joe Mazza/BraveLux; The Remedy photo by Charles Gipson Photography; Lucy Smith photo by Kay Berkson; Yohan photo by Chasefive Studio

WINDY CITY TIMES Feb. 22, 2017 3 NEWS NQAPIA press conference; column 4 Congressman talks political resistance 5 Anti-trans bill advances in Illinois 6 Politics: Guide to the gays 6 When A Great Deal Matters, Shop Rob Paddor’s... Chapa LaVia running for Aurora mayor 7 LGBTA college conference speakers 8 Darrow symposium happening soon 9 Sonny Apollo: From homeless to successful 10 Covenant House opens in Chicago 11 Evanston Subaru VIEWPOINTS: Sukie; letters 12 TRUE LOV E INDEX ENTERTAINMENT/EVENTS Scottish Play Scott: ‘Gender’ identity 13 Theater reviews 14 Kevin’s Room 15th-anniv. event 15 download When We Rise: Talking with Dustin Lance Black 16 this issue Erik Sosa’s art part of upcoming sleep-in 17 NEWLY Book review: Indomitable 18 REMODELED and browse the archives at Transgender ‘Star’ actress Amiyah Scott 19 www.WindyCityTimes.com NIGHTSPOTS 20 Classifieds 22 Calendar Q 22 Still from When We Rise. 2016 S UBARU LO VE PROMISE

vol 32, no. 23 Feb. 22, 2017 www.WindyCityMediaGroup.com ‘RISE’ RETAILER OF THE YEAR! TO THE OCCASION Dustin Lance Black on latest ABC project, When We Rise By JERRy NUNN Dustin Lance Black not only juggles three names but usually at least three jobs with screenwriting, directing, and producing. Activism is now part of the list and soon to be author. This Mormon-raised talent started in fictional gay centered short films, then SONNY DAY moved into a documentary called On the Bus. He wrote for HBO’s Big Love and Singer Sonny Apollo—from homelessness to was promoted to co-producer. success. Dustin Lance Black. the SAVINGS event to LOVE! Turn to page 16 Photo from Apollo 10 ABC_Image Group LA ENDS TUESDAY - FEbrUArY 28Th

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Automatic, Leather, Sunroof, Grey, 16827A ....$16,995 Find out the latest about John A+ Waters, Michelle Rodriguez and RATED Leonard Bernstein. 847-869-5700 Mexico’s Banyan Tree getaway spotlights the Mayan culture, among 3340 OAKTON - SKOKIE • EVANSTONSUBARU.COM plus other things. * Add tax, title license and $172.15 doc fee. **Finance on approved credit score Subject to vehicle insurance and availability. *Lease on approved credit score. Lease, 10k miles per year, 15 cents after. Lessee DAILY BREAKING NEWS Photo by Jerry Nunn responsible for excess wear and early termination of lease. Option to purchase; Impreza $10,690, Forester $15,959, Outback $18,829. All offers end in 3 days, unless noted. 4 Feb. 22, 2017 WINDY CITY TIMES Ads address stigma GUEST COLUMN with Asian-American by Eman Hassaballa Aly Working with LGBTQ and queer community other allies: Moving beyond the By David Thill community. Ibrahim identifies as a Pakistani lesbian Muslim, and in the past has faced the pros- ‘Kumbaya’ in interfaith work pect of homelessness and honor killing. When Joanne Lee’s child, Skyler, who was born Imagine soft harmonious music playing right nice to one another. It’s also time to stop female, told his mother he was transgender, she “I’m here to convey a message of hope,” said now. We’ve been doing interfaith work for a criticizing people openly and so frequently. had trouble accepting it. “I made progress, but it Ibrahim, who said she urges Asian LGBT youth long time now especially in the past several This means working with LGBTQ groups and was too slow,” said Lee, who was born and raised to seek community, shelter and safety. She also years since 9/11. And, it’s been great. It has Jews. We’re not going to solve the Israeli-Pal- in South Korea, which had a culture she described emphasized the importance of her Muslim faith, created a great connection with people of estinian conflict, but there is plenty that we as “strict and binary.” But when Lee received the which she said has “brought me where I am to- other faiths, and it’s been a fantastic way to can work on here in the States. The ISNA and news one morning in 2015 that Skyler had killed day.” get to know each other and each other’s reli- AJC partnership called Muslim-Jewish Ameri- himself at age 16, it was a “turning point of my “Now, especially in the hostile atmosphere we gions and talk about all the things we have can Council is a good start. life,” she said. are all facing, it is more important than ever that in common. In Chicago, I proudly sit with a group called Lee told her story at a Feb. 16 press conference we work for a world” in which LGBT children are It’s been fun to share food, and see how the Trust Collective. They’re LGBTQ, Latinx and held by the National Queer Asian Pacific Islander safe, said Aya Yabe, of New York. She said that some Americans can’t handle spicy food, and Muslims who came together after the Orlando Alliance (NQAPIA) announcing the organization’s because her parents taught her “there was no dif- how everyone loves hummus. It’s been … Pulse Nightclub shooting to support one an- ference between gay and straight,” she was able *cue record scratch* other. They’ve issued statements and shown to accept her own daughter, who came out as a Stop. Full stop. support to American Muslims since then, and lesbian at the age of 21 and got married in 2015. Shit has hit the fan folks. We are in a crisis I really think we’re going to do some amazing Yabe added, “Accepting our children for who they with the Trump presidency, its administration work together, God willing. are saves lives.” and the #MuslimBan and other executive or- There is no compulsion in religion. God The ads, airing from Feb. 14-28 on Xfinity ders. And, if we don’t do something now, it’s clearly states that in the Quran. Especially Channel 691, can be viewed online at http:// not going to be okay. People are already doing if the people that we are working with aren’t familyisstillfamily.org/videos-1/. a lot: Women’s March, fighting the #Muslim- even Muslim. I get it—sodomy is prohibited Ban, SwingLeft and so much more. This is the in Islam. But, that doesn’t mean that we can’t time for us to work together with other com- or shouldn’t work with groups who may en- munities and stand up for each other. gage in activities that are strictly prohibited. Roe v. Wade This isn’t the time to wonder who or what Many of our Christian and Jewish colleagues groups we should be working with and which drink alcohol!! Where’s the outrage? Where plaintiff dies ones jive with our faith teachings. This is not are the open letters with the subtle outcries By Matt Simonette the time when we should be arguing about against these things that don’t allow us to re- what’s more important or who are our ene- main committed to “non-negotiable teachings Norma McCorvey—who, in the early ‘70s, was mies. And, it’s definitely not a time that we of Islam.” Seriously? The only sin in Islam the plaintiff in the Roe v. Wade court case should be sitting on our behinds and doing that is “non-negotiable” and God will never that made legal access to abortions the law nothing in our interfaith work and dialoguing. forgive is associating partners with God (aka of the land—has passed away from heart It’s time to get things done. Sometimes we shirk). Everything else is negotiable (aka for- failure in Katy, Texas, according to the New have the luxury to think about and prioritize givable). York Times. She was 68. what needs to be done, but other times the It’s time to understand there are many paths McCorvey ultimately renounced her views situation is so dire that we just have to act. that lead to God, and they all can be right, on abortion and became a strident prolife We are unfortunately in the latter situation. even if it’s not right for you. And, it’s not time activist as well as an “ex-gay” supposedly No doubt, we will make mistakes and take mis- for all of us to try to shut down all other paths “cured” of her lesbianism by religion. In her steps, but the urgency of the matter pushes us to God but our own. This isn’t the time for Glenn Magpantay at the press conference. later years, she was a devout Roman Catholic. to bring our best selves forward. that, nor was it ever. But now more than ever, Photo by Sarah-Ji Her upbringing was marked by numerous So what am I trying to say here is … we must stop doing that. difficulties. In 1970, she signed on to help It’s time to move beyond the holding hands Who knows what the next four, eight or 100 two Dallas lawyers eager to challenge abor- and singing kumbaya. It’s time to make alli- years will present to us. This is the time for new Asian Family Acceptance Campaign. The cam- ances with folks we don’t typically ally with. our himma (resolve) to remain high, honest paign includes a series of television ads, “Family tion prohibitions. It was her third pregnancy and she later said she hoped it would be a It’s time to have difficult conversations about and sincere. What counts in the end is the Is Still Family,” airing in Chicago through Feb. difficult subjects. It’s time to recognize who effort that we will make, that is ultimately 28. The ads feature Asian and Pacific Islander legal route to an abortion. She eventually had the child and gave it up for adoption; has stood up for us and stand up for them as what God is going to judge us on. We may not (API) parents of LGBT children, and run in Man- well, even if we don’t align theologically—we see the fruit of our labor in our lifetimes, but she was uninvolved with the court case, only darin, Cantonese, Tagalog (Filipino) and Hindi. align as humans. It’s time to really be hon- that’s not even the point. Personally, I’d like learning of its resolution in a newspaper, “We need the safety of our families, we need est about how we can improve and where we to see all my fruit in the hereafter. she said. She lived with a female partner for the love of our parents more than ever before,” failed. It’s time to say sorry for being not so said Glenn Magpantay, executive director of NQA- some time. PIA. He added that the commercials, scheduled McCorvey became a born-again Christian to air 113 times on Crossings TV Chicago (Xfinity after an Operation Rescue office opened next Eman Hassaballa Aly is a digital communications professional and a trained social worker. She Channel 691), have an estimated combined reach to the women’s clinic she worked at in the works on the national level around crisis planning and communication. Her passions lie in and of 6 million Asian-American households. mid-‘90s. She announced in 1996 that, as around digital media. Mangoes and passionfruit are proof to her that God exists. She recently “Finding acceptance and understanding as it part of her religious conversion, she was no spoke at the Women’s March in Chicago. relates to family will always be a work in prog- longer a lesbian. She became a Roman Catho- This article originally ran on the Patheos website, at http://www.patheos.com/blogs/altmus- ress,” said Iram Ibrahim, a Chicago-based at- lic in 1998. lim/2017/02/working-with-lgbtq-other-allies-moving-beyond-the-kumbaya-in-interfaith- torney and board member at Trikone Chicago, a McCorvey’s obituary is at http://nyti. work/ . nonprofit organization for the queer South Asian ms/2li79Mp. WINDY CITY TIMES Feb. 22, 2017 5 coordinate both within the community and with- vowed to destroy the 1954 Johnson Amend- out. To every group I have spoken to, I’ve said, ment forbidding churches and religious orga- Quigley talks community, ‘You have to be there when your sister group is nizations from entering the political arena. attacked.’ Some progressive pundits have said that it We are going to have to coordinate across the could also work to our advantage. Where do political resistance United States. The ACA [Affordable Care Act] is you stand? an example. They were going to repeal ACA in MQ: It’s a bad idea on both sides. You’re head- the first week. Now the President is saying in the ing down a slippery slope that is very dangerous. in the Trump era first year. Some of that is due to a coordinated We think of religious freedom and part of that is push back across a lot of different lines with a lot the ability to keep politics from exerting itself By Gretchen Rachel Hammond is there a possibility that Democrats can re- of different groups, entities and governors and in an unpleasant way in our churches. There’s a take seats in 2018 as people take to heart that effort will continue to maintain healthcare reason they have nonprofit status and that keeps Congressman Mike Quigley (D-IL) was in town for President Obama’s advice during his farewell for everyone in the United States. them from making political institutions syn- a Feb. 9 breakfast at the downtown Chicago of- address to grab a clipboard and run for office? So the plan must be on all fronts to have a onymous with religious ones. It’s not where this fices of Jenner & Block during which he engaged MQ: Here’s the situation: More people voted for systematic, organized and focused campaign to country wants to go. leaders of the Chicago LGBTQ community in a a Democrat for Congress than a Republican yet protect equality, justice, fairness and, really, the candid discussion about the issues that not only they have a majority. So there were bad maps American way. he and his fellow House Democrats now confront across the country. That’s not going to change On the executive orders, each one presents dif- in what has been termed the Trump era but that for ’18. It won’t change until the census in 2022. Pro-choice bill ferent issues. Some of it is coordinating funding are faced by the entire LGBT community and pro- If we don’t win it in ’18 because of an anti-Trump and being involved in legal challenges. Frankly, it gressives even in a tempestuous first three weeks backlash, we won’t have the majority until 2022. passes committee will be difficult to counter them on a legislative Legislation sponsored by Illinois state Rep. side. We will try but we are in the minority. Sara Feigenholtz, D-Chicago, that aims to WCT: Have the sheer numbers of people call- protect a women’s right to choose by striking ing Republican Congressmen on these issues the “trigger” language in the Illinois Abor- been an effective tool? tion Law of 1975 advanced out of committee MQ: Absolutely, and double down on that. Find on a seven-to-five vote along party lines. Congressman key people to focus on: Republicans in leader- According to a press release, “House Bill 40 Mike Quigley. ship, Republicans in key posts not committee will help ensure abortion remains safe and le- Photo by posts. It has to be focused, well thought out, gal in Illinois regardless of potential federal Gretchen continual and from within the district that those efforts to overturn Roe v. Wade.” Rachel [members] live. Members react to their own con- The bill also removes provisions from Il- Hammond stituents a lot more than they do from a national linois law that denies insurance coverage of effort. If I get a call from somebody in Ohio and an abortion to many women who depend on one from Sauganash, I’m going to listen to the Medicaid and State Employee Health Insur- Sauganash person first. ance. WCT: Instead of the LGBT order, Trump has since Trump took office. It’s the things you do setting yourself up to Quigley, who serves as vice-chair of the Con- run for office that can be as important or more gressional LGBT Equality Caucus and is a founding important. I had a whole career before I success- member of the Transgender Equality Task Force fully ran and won. I was a community activist, I stated in a Feb. 7 press release that he and his worked for an alderman, a state senator, I prac- fellow members on Capitol Hill “have a moral ob- ticed law and I was trying to help people across ligation to promote equality, justice and oppor- the community. tunity for all, while ensuring that adherence to While the energy, exuberance and anger are these key American values does not waver based there and should be marshalled, not everybody 647 on sexual orientation or gender identity.” can run for office every time. I would encourage WEST MELROSE “Together, we must hold President Trump and us to learn how to run a campaign, to do field those in Congress accountable and ensure that no work, fundraising, phone banking and recruit- BRAD LIPPITZ GROUP American is denied the pursuit of life, liberty and ment because [in 2018] Tammy [Baldwin] will Boutique Real Estate, Worldwide happiness,” he added. need help in Wisconsin, [Joe] Donnelly will need Quigley spoke with Windy City Times about the help in Indiana. We have a governor’s race here challenges ahead in meeting each of those goals. in Illinois. Do more than write a check. Learn Entertain like crazy in these spectacular sprawling full-floor residences by award-winning Windy City Times: What’s your reaction to how to be a leader in a campaign. I know Presi- GVP Development, the city’s pre-eminent builder. Enjoy premium luxurious finishes, a the Feb. 10 Ninth Circuit Court ruling against dent Obama well enough to know that he wants Trump’s travel ban from seven Muslim majority people involved with the process which will help private keyed elevator entrance, soaring 10' ceilings, huge 460 square foot covered terraces countries? immediately. with outdoor fireplaces, glamorous master suites with spa baths, two car parking and Mike Quigley: I don’t think it matters if the WCT: Trump’s executive order that would low assessments. Truly, a one-of-a-kind opportunity in the best neighborhood location. justices who reviewed it are viewed as liberal or have rolled back LGBT civil rights supposedly $1,950,000 to $2,299,000. conservative. It was just a slam-dunk unconstitu- didn’t happen because of the intervention of tional ban that I couldn’t imagine would not be Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner. But Trump is overturned. I thought it was the right decision unpredictable. If, for example, the American 3323 N Broadway, Chicago, IL 60657 | 980 N Michigan Ave #900, Chicago, IL 60611 obviously, but it doesn’t surprise me that justices Family Association (AFA’s) Tony Perkins was to 773.404.1144 | [email protected] | BradLippitz.com would refuse to uphold the travel ban. Even at convince him to back-peddle and release some the Supreme Court level, it would be hard for me version of it what, if anything could be done? to imagine that a majority of the eight justices Have you heard anything further about the will agree with the president. introduction of the First Amendment Defense WCT: Since the Women’s March, there’s been Act (FADA)? a lot of discussion as to whether a movement MQ: I haven’t heard any rumors about [FADA] has been formed to rival The Tea Party in 2009. being brought up. I think they’re still formulating Even with gerrymandering in House districts, their agenda and the timing. I think we need to 6 Feb. 22, 2017 WINDY CITY TIMES niors should feel safe in their homes. But Marsha Lambda Legal Wetzel has been attacked at Glen St. Andrew sim- Anti-trans ‘bathroom ply because of who she is and whom she loved: appeals Niles a woman with whom she lived and nurtured a senior-housing suit family for 30 years. This kind of discrimination bill’ sent to state By Matt Simonette and harassment is not only wrong, it’s illegal.”

House subcommittee Lambda Legal, on Feb. 15, filed a Notice of Ap- Seminary offering peal in a lawsuit by a lesbian who said that she was harassed when she was at a senior living fa- By Matt Simonette moment—a subcommittee assignment in many LGBTQ scholarships cility in suburban Niles, according to organiza- cases signals a bill will languish without further Bexley Seabury Seminary, 1407 E. 60th St.— tion officials. Anti-trans legislation limiting transgender stu- action—the LGBT community could not rest on one of 10 accredited seminaries of the Episcopal Marsha Wetzel sued Glen St. Andrews Living Fa- dents to using either the changing-room and re- its laurels around the issue. “We do not want to Church—announced receipt of a $279,000 grant cility in 2016, alleging that the facility failed to stroom facilities of the gender they were assigned give anti-trans people a platform.” to fund three three-year Bexley Seabury St. Ma- protect her against ongoing harassment, discrim- at birth or designated staff facilities, introduced This is Morrision’s second attempt at such a rina Scholarships for entering Master of Divinity ination and violence because she is gay. Wetzel by a suburban legislator Jan. 25, has been sent bill. His first try, filed in January 2016, stalled in students from the LGBTQ community. moved in to the facility after her longtime part- to a House subcommittee. the House Rules Committee after being referred The grant—which two anonymous donors es- ner died and she was evicted from their home by The bill, HR 664, was introduced by state Rep. there the following April. tablished through the Central Indiana Community her partner’s family. At Glen St. Andrews, the suit Thomas Morrison (R-Palatine) and sent to the Hu- A high school in Morrison’s district was the Foundation—stipulates that the scholarships will alleged, she was subjected to repeated anti-gay man Services Committee, chaired by state Rep. center of much controversy in late 2015 when a cover the cost of tuition, books, travel and other slurs when fellow residents found out that she Robyn Gabel (D-Evanston), on Feb. 8. From there, transgender student sued to be able to use the expenses for all three years of Bexley Seabury’s had been in a relationship with a woman. HR 664 was reassigned to the House Facilities girls’ locker room facilities. The Obama adminis- Master of Divinity curriculum, leaving students A judge dismissed Wetzel’s lawsuit in January. subcommittee on Feb 16. The sole three members tration deemed that the school was in violation free to concentrate on their studies. One schol- At the time, Karen Loewy, senior attorney and of that subcommittee are Gabel, its chair; co- of Title IX regulations, placing the school’s fed- arship will be awarded each of three academic seniors program strategist at Lambda Legal, said Chair Patricia Bellock (R-Hinsdale); and openly eral funding in peril. A deal was struck to resolve years, 2017–2018 through 2019–2020. in a statement, “We feel the District Court’s dis- lesbian state Rep. Kelly Cassidy (D-Chicago). the issue in Dec. 2015, over the objections of Visit BexleySeabury.edu/master-of-divinity- missal of Marsha’s lawsuit does not appropriately Activist Rick Garcia said that, while the bill many pupils’ families, some of whom later sued mdiv/. apply the law and we’re confident that the Sev- appeared to be “dead in the water” for the the government and school board. enth Circuit Court of Appeals will agree. All se-

SPECIAL ELECTION 2017 - Feb. 28, 2017 WCT - Windy City Times mailed questionnaires to every candidate for 4th ward alderman. GUIDE TO THE GAYS IVI - Independent Voters of Illinois Independent Precinct Organization

By Matt Simonette WCT IVI

A number of openly LGBT individuals are running CHICAGO CITY COUNCIL ALDERMAN - 4th WARD in municipal elections in Elgin, Evanston and Ebony D. Lucas Berwyn in early 2017. Marcellus H. Moore, Jr. —Elgin: Openly bisexual Franklin Ramirez is Sophia King Y running to become Elgin Township supervisor. Gregory Seal Livingston —Evanston: Ald. Mark Tendam is running Gerald Scott McCarthy 14/24 against four other candidates in a Feb. 28 primary for outgoing Mayor Elizabeth Tisdahl’s re- placement. —Berwyn: Scott Lennon, a close political ally of Mayor Robert J. Lovero and vice-president of the board of directors of Berwyn Development Corporation is running for 1st Ward alderman. Businessman Jose Ramirez is running for 2nd Ward alderman as part of a political action committee calling itself Berwyn United, which also includes 3rd Ward Ald. Marge Paul, who is running for city clerk; Jeanine Reardon, a hospital chaplain who is running to replace Paul in the 3rd Ward; and Joey Johnston, who works for a renewable energy company and is running for a township trustee post. All are openly gay.

From left: Jeanine Reardon, Joe Johnston, Marge Paul and Jose Ramirez. Mark Tendam. Scott Lennon. Photo by Julia Mcaleer-Forte Photo by Hal Baim Photo courtesy of Lennon

@windycitytimes1 /windycitymediagroup @windycitytimes www.windycitymediagroup.com WINDY CITY TIMES Feb. 22, 2017 7 for that even if I get hauled away to jail for not candidate who has been endorsed on a bipartisan enforcing something. and federal level. It’s because of the connectivity Rep. Chapa LaVia WCT: Why do you believe you are a better I’ve had over the years doing more than just my choice to lead the Aurora City Council rather job as state representative. If you look at our sur- than your opponents who have long been a rounding cities, they’re all thriving. Aurora is not. part of it? So why haven’t these three individuals done what discusses run LCL: Collectively, all three of them [have] close they needed to do before they wanted to run for to half a century of working in city government. mayor? I get things done and I have the relation- My question for them is, ‘Now they want to come ships and support at every level to build Aurora. up with all these ideas? Where have they been for For more information about the Linda Chapa for Aurora mayor 50 years?’ They’re running on the status quo. Ev- LaVia campaign, visit ChapaLaVia.com. ery success they’ve had in the last 15 years is be- Read an interview with one of Chapa LaVia’s By Gretchen Rachel Hammond cause I’ve brought back statutes, money or both. opponents, Rick Guzman, online at WindyCity- I want to take us into the future. I am the only MediaGroup.com. To many, the end of the 2016 presidential election season was as much a relief as it was a shock. However, residents of the second largest since the state had not to date actually inter- city in Illinois have no time to take a breath. Attorney: Legal vened with their pastoral work. “… [Persons] They will be back at the polls again Feb. 28 for a who have only speculative fears that a statute primary that will halve a field of four competitive loss validates will be applied against them are not appropri- candidates each vying to take the role of mayor ate plaintiffs,” wrote Guzman in his decision. of Aurora following the October 2016 resignation church-based Plaintiffs in the lawsuit included Pastors Ste- of Democrat Tom Weisner. (The top two vote-get- ven K. Stultz, Frank Teesdale, Brenda Bravatty ters in the primary will face each other April 4.) conversion therapy By Matt Simonette and Arthurine Wilkinson. Lead attorney on the Among those candidates is Democratic state case was John Mauck of the Chicago law firm Rep. Linda Chapa LaVia. In 2013, marriage-equal- A federal judge dismissed a lawsuit Feb. 16 that Mauck & Baker, which specializes in church- ity activists pressured Chapa LaVia through calls, challenged whether the Illinois law prohibiting related litigation. Mauck has long opposed letters and protests to come out on the side of so-called conversion therapy on minors applied YMHPA; just days after it passed, an attorney the legislation in Springfield that year. Ultimate- to pastors. But the plaintiffs in the case say from his firm announced in conservative media ly, Chapa LaVia, representing the 83rd District, that the ruling against them ultimately gives that they would look to for pro bono work op- voted in favor of marriage equality. clergy more latitude to practice such therapy. posing it. The U.S. Army veteran entrepreneur, working The suit, which named Attorney General Lisa In a Feb. 17 statement, Mauck lauded the rul- mom and legislator spoke with Windy City Times Madigan as a defendant, was filed in August ing—though his clients lost—saying that Guz- about her candidacy and why she believes she is 2016 by an ad hoc group of religious person- man’s ruling said pastors were not subject to a vital next step for Aurora, a suburban city of nel calling itself Pastors Protecting Youth. They consumer-protection oversights and were thus more than 200,000 that is about 40 miles west of maintained that the Youth Mental Health Pro- free to practice conversion therapy. Chicago and extends into four counties: DuPage, tection Act (YMHPA) infringes on the rights of Indeed, Guzman wrote in his decision, “It Kane, Kendall and Will. State Rep. Linda Chapa LaVia. pastors who might tell their congregants that is clear that the Act’s only penalties apply to Answers have been edited for length. Photo courtesy of LaVia homosexuality is a sin, and that the legisla- mental health professionals or to those who de- Windy City Times: What spurred the run for tion, which is largely framed on a consumer- ceptively advertise conversion therapy for com- mayor? turkey dinner for people who are less fortunate. protection principle, put them in danger of be- mercial purposes. Plaintiffs fit neither mold.” Linda Chapa LaVia: I’ve been in the legislature I’ve still been able to bring back over $40 million ing prosecuted for fraud. Conversion therapy has long been discredited since 2002 and I’ve always been very proud of back to our area even in the face of the adversity But Judge Ronald A. Guzman said that the by numerous medical and psychiatric profes- everything I’ve been able to accomplish here in we’ve been dealing with for a while now. plaintiffs had not suffered any harm or injury, sional associations. Aurora. I wanted to take it to the next level. It’s WCT: Chicago has remained a sanctuary city important that we have a mayor who’s going to despite threats from the Trump administra- take care of everybody’s needs and I don’t see tion. What are your thoughts on making Au- that happening right now. I want to be make sure rora a sanctuary city as well? that everybody is at the table. I was born and LCL: I’m going to protect our citizens. I’ve been raised in Aurora and it’s important to me that in classrooms with fifth graders who start break- Activism meet-ups, people from Aurora can stand on my shoulders ing out in tears because they’re afraid that their and reach their stars. I want to make Aurora the personal book recommendations, mom and dad are not going to be home when best city we can have in this state. Right now, they get there. Being a Latina and a mother my- we’re a little stifled. We need a transparent, ac- weekly events, Kids Storytime, and more! self, that’s just not acceptable. We need diverse countable and ethical government that supports people in every community. I will stand up for the whole city, not just downtown. There are so many reasons to support the citizens of the city of Aurora and they will WCT: The state budget crisis has affected ad- feel protected because they are my family. People vocacy organizations across Illinois. As mayor, Chicago’s only feminist bookstore. can’t just come and take them away. what would you do to help those in your city WCT: In terms of LGBT-inclusive education who are suffering because of Springfield’s in- or transgender use of restrooms in Aurora’s action? public schools, how would you handle the kind LCL: I have the capabilities and I’m the only of federal push back one might expect from candidate with the resources, so that we can help someone like Education Secretary Betsy De- in every community, especially the [LGBT] com- Vos? munity in Aurora. We don’t have an open organi- LCL: LGBT rights are human rights, and I think zation here that supports all of our young, mid- a lot of people understand that. As mayor, I will dle-aged and old people in showing them how to ensure that the community has a voice in City be successful in business or making sure their hu- Hall, that we form a human-rights commission man rights are not being trampled on. Out of all that is worthy of being called that and that the these candidates, I’m the only one who’s opened community is afforded all the protections they a business, that goes out of my way to find re- need to live and thrive in Aurora. I will stand sources whether fixing a senior’s roof or doing a 8 Feb. 22, 2017 WINDY CITY TIMES MIDWEST BISEXUAL, LESBIAN, GAY, TRANSGENDER work advocating for LGBTQ and Latino communi- AND ALLY COLLEGE CONFERENCE Jennicet Gutierrez ties nationwide has taken on crucial import in the Trump era. closes with call for “I’ve been able to go into different spaces and unity in resistance the amount of fear and anxiety that people like #BlackLivesMatter us are going through is really unacceptable,” she By Gretchen Rachel Hammond stated. Celebrated and impassioned trans Latina activ- Gutiérrez went on to challenge the audience co-founder kicks off to opening dialogue and cooperation between ist Jennicet Gutiérrez brought the 25th annual Midwest Bisexual, Lesbian, Gay, Transgender, and resisting communities. Ally College Conference (MBLGTACC) to a rousing “There are so many things happening with ex- LGBTQ college conference ecutive orders that people don’t know what to close Feb. 19 leading the audience, which packed do,” she said. “How do we stand in solidarity with By Carrie Maxwell into the Festival Hall at Chicago’s Navy Pier, in a chant that was as much about defiance as it was other groups in a difficult situation? We have to be open and willing to hear other people, even if Openly queer #BlackLivesMatter co-founder, a call to action. that issue is not impacting us. We have to chal- performance artist, NAACP History Maker and “My existence is resistance!” Gutiérrez’s lead lenge our own communities.” Fulbright scholar Patrisse Cullors kicked off the was echoed through the cavernous room before “A lot of the conversations happening at the Midwest Bisexual, Lesbian, Gay, Transgender, and she as given an equally thunderous standing ova- moment surround sanctuary colleges, cities, Ally College Conference (MBLGTACC) Feb. 17 at tion for a speech which reflected upon her life schools and safe zones.” she added. “We do wel- Navy Pier with a rousing keynote address cen- and the moment during which she was ejected come [them] but we have to be more inclusive. tered on the theme of resistance. from then President Barack Obama’s 2015 Pride When we take a stand on sanctuary, we are also Hosted by colleges and universities across the celebration at the White House after she spoke saying that we are taking a stand against police Midwest since 1993, the MBLGTACC is an annual up for transgender immigrants held and abused in brutality and join in solidarity with BLM [Black three-day conference featuring speakers, work- Immigration Customs Enforcement (ICE) facilities Lives Matter]” shops, activities and entertainment that focus on nationwide. Gutiérrez noted work already underway in Los issues affecting the queer community. The Chi- Her reasons for speaking up then took on a Angeles which has brought Muslim, Black and the cago Coalition of Queer and Allied Students are greater profundity in today’s nation caught in LGBTQ communities together. the hosts of this year’s conference. the grip of a nationalistic xenophobia that has “There were moments that we were chal- Cullors, Alicia Garza and Opal Tometi co-found- begun to systematically target its immigrant lenged,” she said. “But we didn’t want to give up. ed #BlackLivesMatter after George Zimmerman’s population. We know that these conversations are necessary acquittal in the fatal shooting of Trayvon Martin. “I am proud to be undocumented alien, guess and a test for how we are going to get through. Since then, the movement has grown to include what, I’m also a human being and no human be- The work of social justice must be centered in supporters from across the world. ing is illegal,” Gutiérrez said before citing the Black liberation.” Recently, Cullors has been bestowed with nu- Patrisse Cullors. work she has been able to accomplish at the La merous accolades, including the Mairo Savio Photo by Ed Negron Familia Trans Queer Liberation Movement whose Young Activist of the Year Award, the Berger- Marks Foundation 2015 Edna Award and a Glam- since so many of them are murdered.” game. It was not only beautiful, it was effec- our 2016 Woman of the Year honor. She was one Ferguson, Missouri, put #BlackLivesMatter on AIDS activist talks tive.” of the people on The Root’s Top 100 List and the map because it highlighted the existence of Empathy needs to be a progressive move- listed as one of the LA Times New Civil Rights over-policing of mostly Black and Brown neigh- Trump-era organizing ment’s “calling card,” he added, recalling that By Matt Simonette Leaders for the 21st Century. borhoods/cities, said Cullors. She noted the im- about half of ACT UP’s membership was HIV-

Cullors said that it is a scary time to be alive portance that social media played in getting that negative and “driven by anger, loss and sor- According to longtime AIDS activist Peter Stal- with 45’s (her name for Donald Trump) numer- message across. row.” Though ACT UP was by definition a prod- ey, today’s progressives need to be prepared ous executive orders, which she said are causing Cullors explained that both the GOP and Demo- uct of the LGBT community’s collective outrage, for four difficult years while Donald Trump is chaos and ripping apart communities. cratic parties have failed Black communities; Staley said he would always remember it as a president. “Our resistance has always been queer,” said however, the GOP shoulders most of the blame of group defined by empathy and love. “Activism is about plowing through defeats,” Cullors numerous times throughout her address. late. She calls Nov. 8, 2016 (the date of Trump’s Acknowledging the power of social media to said Staley, on Feb. 18, in the second-night Cullors spoke about the contributions of openly election) “doomsday.” wield popular influence, he further urged that keynote address at the 2016 Midwest Bisexual, gay civil-rights leader Bayard Rustin. She high- “They can take the House, Senate and White young activists not completely rely on it for Lesbian, Gay, Transgender, and Ally College lighted his skill as an organizer and non-violent House, but they can’t take our power.” said Cul- their organizational approaches. Conference (MBLGTACC) at Navy Pier. “Move- messaging that made the 1963 March on Wash- lors. “I have yet to see a piece of software or an ments are made stronger by political backlash.” ington a successful endeavor. Cullors said that Cullors called Trump’s actions those of a fascist app that can substitute for the brainstorming Staley, who was diagnosed with AIDS in without Rustin’s involvement the civil-rights and noted two pending proposals—eliminating that can go on at [an in-person] meeting,” he 1985, was a member of ACT UP New York as well movement might never have gotten off the both the Department of Education and the EPA— said, suggesting that people meet weekly to as one of the subjects of the 2012 film How to ground. She explained that due to Rustin’s sexual that need to be countered at every turn. organize and try to cultivate a group of 10-20 Survive a Plague. He also founded AIDSmeds. orientation he was sidelined by history like most “Everyone in this room is a survivor,” said Cul- regular, committed individuals for long-term com, a website geared towards persons living queer people have been over the years. lors. “Our goal is to protect and defend our fami- planning. “The trick will really be keeping ev- with HIV, and has been in recent years working She also noted openly transgender activist Mar- lies, friends and communities from fascism. Look eryone from killing each other in years two, for expanded access to PrEP. sha P. Johnson’s pivotal role during the Stonewall around you at the collective power in this room. three and four.” At the MBLGTACC talk, he discussed his di- Rebellion and how history has sidelined her in- … The key is to fight locally, including getting Trump’s election was partially a backlash di- agnosis and subsequent activism, focusing on volvement in favor of a more “palatable” mes- more cities to become sanctuary cities. … Hope rected against multiculturalism and feminism, the lessons newly-energized progressive activ- sage. is not lost and former President Obama’s two vic- Staley added, so it is necessary to publicly call ists can draw from the ACT UP era to keep their Cullors pivoted to the founding of #BlackLives- tories prove it. … What we are seeing now is out racism, misogyny, homophobia and trans- momentum going while Trump is in the White Matter which she says is a love letter and call to beautiful movement moments like the Women’s phobia, even when it appears that the LGBT House. action about respecting every Black life. March and protests at airports. … We can’t let 45 community is not on the president’s immediate “Empathy must be the driving force that de- “Queer liberation is Black liberation,” said Cul- take our joy and power away.” radar. fines the resistance,” Staley said, noting how lors. “#BlackLivesMatter isn’t just about Black, A Q&A followed Cullors’ address. “Donald Trump thinks he can avoid our wrath many non-Muslims arrived at American airports straight, cisgender men; it’s about all Black See http://patrissecullors.com/bio/ and by reading ‘LGBTQ’ from a teleprompter,” he to protest executive orders Trump issued Jan. people, no matter how they identify. We need to https://mblgtacc.org/ for more information. said. “He has completely underestimated our 27. “Only a handful of people had skin in the center our stories around the most marginalized empathy.” among us which are Black transgender women WINDY CITY TIMES Feb. 22, 2017 9 Darrow symposium to explore populism CHANGERS GAME Annual commemoration of Clarence Darrow takes place Monday, March 13

CHICAGO—Famed attorney Clarence Darrow, inspired by his defense of Patrick Prendergast in Chicago in the 1890s, became attracted to a bur- geoning populist movement. The Debs Rebellion, named for labor organizer Eugene Debs, was in full force, and Darrow began to see how judges were under the control of corporations. “The experience left him angry and alienated,” author John A. Farrell writes in his biography of Darrow. What Darrow said in the late 1800s could easily be said of 2017 in the U.S.: “Today the privileged institutions of America, fattened by unjust laws and conditions, boastfully proclaim that monopo- ly is king.” Darrow joined the Cook County central committee of the Populist Party in 1892. Flash-forward 125 years, and you have a rede- fined populism of a billionaire as president, stak- ing his claim as the leader of working people. How does this take on populism compare to the populism of Darrow? Come hear author Farrell’s take on this interesting series of events at the annual Clarence Darrow symposium on the 79th anniversary of Darrow’s death: Monday, March 13. Khadine Bennett at the Women’s March on The title of the program is, “Robber Barons & Chicago Jan. 21 Populists: Would Clarence Darrow recognize to- Photo by Kat Fitzgerald day’s Populism?” The day begins with a brief ceremony and wreath-tossing near the Darrow Bridge in Jackson the light at 57th Drive and turn right at the next Park at 10 a.m., where Darrow’s ashes were scat- light [Science Drive]. You will come almost im- tered after his death and where, as a bet, he once mediately to Columbia Drive. If you turn left and agreed his spirit would return if it turned out follow Columbia Drive there is metered parking communication was possible from the afterworld. near the bridge. You may park at meters near the The bridge is closed due to construction, so the OmniMax Theater and walk south to the bridge. ceremony will be just to the east of the Darrow For more details, see DarrowBridge.org. tribute marker. For the past 60 years, through the John A. Farrell is the author of Clarence Dar- annual commemoration ceremony and lecture, row: Attorney For The Damned, a biography of Darrow’s spirit has returned—usually to remind America’s greatest defense attorney (2012), and of Tip O’Neill and the Democratic Century, the de- us that his work is not yet done. Fool’s Paradise finitive account of House Speaker Thomas P. “Tip” Special guest speakers at the Darrow Bridge Christopher Wheeldon include Ald. Leslie Hairston, activist Bernardine O’Neill Jr.(2002). His most recent biography, TODAY’S MOST Richard Nixon: The Life, will be released March 3 INFRA Dohrn, ACLU of Illinois Associate Legislative POWERFUL Wayne McGregor Director Khadine Bennett, Jaquie Algee of SEIU 28. Farrell is a contributing editor to Politico BRILLIANT CHOREOGRAPHERS Year of the Rabbit Healthcare, and Gene Winkler, adjunct faculty at Magazine and a contributor to The Atlantic, after WORKS Justin Peck the Divinity School, University of Chicago. a prize-winning career as a journalist. After the ritual outdoor wreath-tossing, guests will move inside to the Museum of Science and Industry’s Rosenwald Room (formerly the Colum- Grassroots meeting bian Room) for light refreshments and presenta- FEBRUARY 15–26 | TICKETS START AT $34 tions at 10:45 a.m. by author Farrell. Feb. 22 at Mary’s Darrow, who died March 13, 1938, is remem- “Movers & Shakers”—described as a grass- JOFFREY.ORG/GAMECHANGERS | 312.386.8905 bered for his crusading role as “attorney for roots meeting of the LGBTQA community— the damned” in such controversial cases as the will take place Wed., Feb. 22, 7-8:30 p.m. at Scopes Monkey Trial, the Leopold and Loeb mur- Mary’s Attic, 5400 N. Clark St. der case, and the pardoning of the Haymarket OFFICIAL PROVIDER PERFORMS AT: Among the topics slated to be discussed 2016–2017 SEASON SPONSORS OF PHYSICAL THERAPY anarchists. are intersectionality as well as pro-LGBTQA DIRECTIONS: The Clarence Darrow Bridge is be- legislative/political moves. hind the Museum of Science and Industry. Since For more information, visit http://lgbtqim- 50 East Congress Parkway, it is currently under constructions, the wreath- pact.com/ or see “LGBTQ Impact - Movers & Chicago tossing ceremony will take place just east of the Shakers meeting” on Facebook. bridge. Driving south on Lake Shore Drive, pass Joffrey dancers | Fabrice Calmels & April Daly | Photography by Cheryl Mann. 10 Feb. 22, 2017 WINDY CITY TIMES wanted me to go and do something with myself. his own place on Chicago’s South Side and, even- Sonny Apollo. It was tough love that I am grateful for today.” tually, saved up enough money to buy a cheap Photo courtesy of Apollo Apollo travelled to Philadelphia first and even- keyboard from Craig’s List. tually Brooklyn, where he stayed with a friend he “‘Zoo’ came to me at the keyboard in 2014,” called “Lashes.” Apollo said. “I did not consciously write it. I “She was in an SRO [Single Room Occupancy] workshopped it and kept going back to it. ‘Zoo’ with her partner,” Apollo said. “I was there may- was definitely the longest process of all the songs be a week or two before her landlord caught on. on the E.P. The song is about living my life and She gave me $300 and told me that I couldn’t my truth as an LGBTQIA person without persecu- stay there anymore.” tion. I did not know when I wrote it that it would Apollo’s trade went from music to survival. turn out to be a timely song. I’m very proud of it “I had gotten used to just thinking quick,” and its impact.” he said. “Beyond music, my life has been about Similarly, Adventures In Paradise has been a overcoming the odds that were stacked against long and deliberate process with release dates me. You think about all the institutionalized that have been continually pushed back. It will things our country says about people of color and be available on March 10 of this year. it was almost from day one.” “It took a long time to create because I want With the money Lashes gave him, Apollo got to make sure that every song that I write is a on a Megabus in Manhattan and began a jour- commentary for what I see,” Apollo said. “As an ney that that took him from Washington, D.C. to artist and a creator, I feel like that is a respon- Sonny Nashville, Memphis and eventually Chicago. sibility for me.” “Along the way, I met an older woman who He added that, for artists and personal influ- gave me some advice,” Apollo said. “She told me, encers from Stevie Wonder to Mozart, “that’s ‘You just have to follow your desires, believe in what art did. It was relevant and in touch with Apollo: yourself and know that things will work out in the times and the streets.” the way they’re supposed to work out.’” Therein lies the explanation for why Apollo is He had to keep that advice firmly in mind proud to play a concert at the Sleep In to fight From homelessness when, with only a duffel bag containing a few youth homelessness Feb 24 at the Second Pres- clothes and a pair of shoes, Apollo arrived in Chi- byterian Church in Chicago, produced by Pride cago Aug. 8, 2012. Action Tank. to successful artist “I went to the library first and began search- “This career, this industry has a nature of self- ing shelters,” he said. “I’d gone through all my ishness,” he said. “So, it makes me feel good to money on the trip here so I went to the Pacific be doing something that benefits someone else. Garden Mission. Walking down Canal Street to the Of all the events I’ve been approached about do- By Gretchen Rachel Hammond before he reached the age of 10. shelter felt like I was walking to the outskirts of ing, this is the one I’m glad I said ‘yes’ to. It’s “I wanted to make people feel the way [Stevie the whole state. That first day was rough.” what I know. It’s what I have experienced. I’m “One of the first things you have to learn is that Wonder] made me feel,” Apollo recalled. “That He remained there for nearly a year. going to deliver a performance and I hope there you can’t base your life on other people’s expec- was when I wrote my first song ‘Every Time,’ “No one knew I was at a homeless shelter, not are youth who connect with it and find something tations.” which had a rockabilly feel. I was always writing, even my friends,” Apollo recalled. “I told people that empowers them, some confidence or inspira- Musician Stevie Wonder spoke those words in always consuming.” I lived downtown. In about month five, I said to tion to carry them through their situation.” a reflective 1985 interview with The Los Angeles Apollo credits his artistic versatility to the vast myself, ‘You’re way better than this. You gotta For more information about SleepIn Chicago, Times. Today it is a quote used on multiple occa- range of music he was exposed to at that young get moving.’ There was no turning back. I could visit SleepInChicago.org. The concert is 7-10 sions across the internet on social media, blogs age including pop, R&B and country. He continu- not go back to that shelter.” p.m. with many artists and speakers; it is free and in articles as a catchall for those in need of ally sought out on the radio the many operas to So, Apollo found a job at a deli in River North. to Sleep In participants and $20 at the door inspiration. which his middle school teacher took him and his He also saw a sign at an Asian Fusion lounge to the public. Yet for Chicago-based singer and songwriter church choir. looking for entertainers. He was hired on the To listen to Zoo, visit: www.soundcloud.com/ Sonny Apollo, who recalls Wonder as one of his “The senior choir had these harmonies that just spot. A few months later, he was able to rent sonnyapollomusic/zoo. earliest and greatest inspirations, that quote en- stuck out to me,” he said. “I wanted to split my capsulates an entire life. voice into parts. I had it set in my mind that I Few would have expected that a young Black wanted to be a radio star. I wanted to be dis- kid in a peeling leather coat, without a penny covered in New York city like Mariah Carey. My to his name or an instrument on which to play mother bought me my first keyboard. She entered or compose, traveling what he called “the walk me in writing competitions just so I would have of shame” down South Canal Street to the doors an outlet.” of the Pacific Garden Mission would, in the span But, like many artists, Apollo was to discover of four years, become a rapidly rising star whose that even though one can dream big, it will al- song Zoo is racking up both plays and fans ahead ways remain torturously out of reach without a of the release of his debut E.P. Adventures In plan to catch it. Paradise. “I did a semester at Columbia College [Chicago] Apollo was born in Frederick, Maryland, and but then I dropped out and went to New York primarily raised by a single mother who, from an City,” he said. “But I had no solid foundation. I early age, encouraged him to explore a range of stayed at a homeless shelter. I had a low-budget art forms. head shot and a super small resume and I just TRUST Collective. “Mom kind of made me an artistic Renaissance auditioned for any show anywhere.” man,” Apollo said. “But, when I was nine, my Even though, at the age of 19, Apollo had the father sent me some cassettes. Stevie Wonder’s brazen talent needed to walk unsolicited into an TRUST Collective hosts retreat Greatest Hits Volume Two completely changed my opera company and be accepted, he had to drop TRUST Collective-Chicago—Chicago’s emerging community and intersectional voice for justice, life. ‘Hey Love’ and ‘If You Really Love Me’ are two out because the position didn’t pay anything. peace, support, creativity and collaboration—recently hosted a retreat to address its focus on songs I still hold close and dear to me.” “I went back to Maryland,” he said. “It was a Latinx, Muslim and/or LGBTQ+ community issues in the “Post Orlando” environment. So, much like his idol, Apollo set to work creat- bleak period in my life. I was just wasting time The TRUST Collective’s mission is to bridge, respect, support and foster relationships across the ing and writing music on a piano or a harmonica until I got kicked out of the house. My mom Chicago area toward building a unified front and reducing targeted violence and discrimination. WINDY CITY TIMES Feb. 22, 2017 11

clude ID checks of any kind.” Covenant House opens in Chicago CTA denies Chicagoan John D’Emilio told Windy City Times, however, that he and other passengers Covenant House, an international youth home- immigration aspect were indeed asked for identification when he less support agency, has opened its first new lo- went through such a checkpoint, countering cation in 17 years, choosing Chicago to expand of Lake View CTA’s statement, at the Belmont station late in its brand. They are starting as a drop-in center in the morning Feb. 7. the Lawson House, 30 W. Chicago Ave., but they security checks “First, they asked to see my Ventra card,” plan to open an actual shelter later this year. By Matt Simonette D’Emilio recalled. “I thought they might be Mayor Rahm Emanuel joined Covenant House checking for fraud involving those. Then they International for the official opening Feb. 14. Chicago Transit Authority (CTA), on Feb. 15, asked for identification. I showed them my Dozens of Covenant House supporters, plus Chi- denied online rumors that CTA security check- driver’s license and they waved me through.” cago Foundations, other youth homeless agencies points, some of which have taken place in Lake D’Emilio noted, however, that all the other and media were at the opening. View in recent weeks, were being performed in passengers entering at the time were asked for Based on 2016 Point-in-Time Count data, the order to verify passengers’ immigration status. identification and that no one appeared to be city estimates that there are as many as 500 Word of a checkpoint—which normally en- singled out by their race. About four persons youth ages 16-24 experiencing homelessness on tails a search of a CTA-riders’ bags for explo- were conducting the check, he said, adding, any given night in Chicago. sives—at the Addison Red Line stop circulated “The whole thing took about a minute.” Covenant House Illinois will help fill a critical online Feb. 14. Some social media users shared ICE officials denied its involvement. In a Feb. need for youth ages 18-24 with drop-in services Covenant House ribbon-cutting. unverified reports that passengers at the stop 14 statement they said: “ICE does not conduct and safe daytime space when overnight shelters Photo by Tracy Baim were racially profiled, and that persons who ap- sweeps, checkpoints or raids that target aliens close in the morning. These services, which will peared as if they were of Hispanic or Middle indiscriminately. These reports create panic be offered Tuesdays through Saturdays, include Illinois is also partnering with a number of exist- Eastern origin were asked for identification. and put communities and law enforcement breakfast and lunch, showers, laundry, lockers for ing organizations to provide more extensive sup- The following day, CTA responded, “We are personnel in unnecessary danger. Any groups safe storage of personal belongings, crisis care, port, including Haymarket for substance abuse aware of rumors on social media about immi- falsely reporting such activities are doing a dis- case management and a computer lab. The lock- treatment, Thresholds for mental health services, gration status-related ID checks on CTA. service to those they claim to support.” ers are provided by Chicago Youth Storage Initia- Heartland Health Outreach for medical care, Cara “A possible origin for these rumors that we’ve The checks have been part of the Transporta- tive. for employment skills and Cabrini Green Legal Aid heard is regarding how we sometimes have tion Safety Administration’s (TSA) Visible In- “These are young people who have aged out of for legal services. All of these collaborators will teams who do quick swab tests for explosives termodal Prevention & Response program. the foster care system—or, sadly, maybe never offer services onsite. on bags of entering passengers as part of an More about the checkpoints is online at have had a stable, safe place to call home,” said Also attending the event were Chicago De- ongoing security program that began in 2014. WindyCityMediaGroup.com. Joseph Mole, the new executive director of Cov- partment of Family and Support Services (DFSS) These bag checks are not new, nor do they in- enant House Illinois. “One-third of the homeless Commissioner Lisa Morrison Butler; Maria Kim, youth in our city have been thrown out of their president and CEO, Cara Chicago, which will do homes by a parent or guardian for a variety of job training for clients at Covenant House; Kevin reasons.They need help to stay away from gangs, Ryan, president and CEO, Covenant House Inter- drug dealers, child traffickers and pimps who prey national; Tom McGee, president and CEO, ICSC on these vulnerable youth. We give them support, and board chair, Covenant House International; compassion, a path out. ” and Covenant House Illinois Board Chair Mark J. In addition to the day services, Covenant House Hennessy.

Immigrants march to protest Trump

Immigrant-rights supporters marched in the Loop Feb. 16 as part of a national protest, following those individuals gathering in Union Park for a rally. Across the country, organizers of A Day With- out Immigrants AJWS immigrants to stay home from work and school as a way to protest the Trump administration’s policies on immigration. Celebrity chef Rick Bayless closed four of his restaurants to support the movement; Chiago’s El Mariachi and Lark were among other eateries that closed as well. More than a dozen businesses in west suburban Aurora also closed as a show of solidarity in a predominantly Hispanic community. LGBT groups expressed their support as well. National LGBTQ Task Force Action Fund Execu- and scapegoating of refugees and immigrants tive Director Rea Carey said in a statement, to prevail.” “President Trump’s actions in his first few “A Day Without Immigrants” actions took weeks in office are direct attacks on the lives place in cities such as St. Paul, Minnesota; and liberties of black, brown, immigrant and Philadelphia; Detroit; Washington, D.C.; Bos- Muslim people. We will not allow Trump’s hate ton; Los Angeles; and Austin, Texas. rhetoric, Islamophobia, incitement of violence, Photo of Chicago march by Kat Fitzgerald 12 Feb. 22, 2017 WINDY CITY TIMES viewpoints

should have been a clue. Trump admirer Toby Keith I’m far from being a prude. I don’t want people was playing in Las Vegas. That should have been to think I’m against gambling and hiring whores. the second clue. However, it didn’t hit me until the I’m not. Go for it. I’m just saying that after three WINDY St. Sukie second day. Trump IS Las Vegas. It’s tacky, greedy, days in Las Vegas, I now understand the vulgarity DE LA CROIX brash and sexually repressed. Far from being liber- of Donald Trump and that bunch of white guys now CITY ated, the attitude toward sex in Las Vegas is pu- running the country. It’s that naughty-naughty- erile and backward. Even the catchphrase “what naughty attitude toward sex before leaving Las Senior moments happens in Vegas stays in Vegas” bothers me. Vegas and returning to their puritanical lives. Why does it stay in Vegas? The phrase implies Las Vegas is a city of flashing lights and old white TIMES I don’t care how disrespectful it is, or how trivial VOL. 32, No. 23, Feb. 22, 2017 that Las Vegas is a place where you can behave men frothing and dribbling over bouncing boobies. The combined forces of Windy City Times, and superficial I’m being, I will not call him Presi- in a way that is unacceptable at home. Why not It’s a city of people feeding slot machines hoping founded Sept. 1985, and Outlines newspaper, dent Donald Trump. be honest and do those things at home. Why not to get something for nothing. It’s a city where the founded May 1987. Hillary Clinton is the president and she has been celebrate sexuality and not have it as some dirty Mafia controls “sin” as they have since Al Capone PUBLISHER & EXECUTIVE EDITOR usurped. I understand that Trump is a fascist and little secret to be brushed under the carpet. Aside and prohibition. Tracy Baim that’s he’s infantile. What I don’t understand is the from gambling, Las Vegas is for straight men to “What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas.” pussy-grabbing titillations and giggling schoolboy pay for sex because they’re incapable of forming a What happened to me in Vegas was that I saw ASSISTANT PUBLISHER Terri Klinsky attitude toward sex, and his disdain for women. meaningful relationship with a woman. If I could the brilliant Cirque du Soleil Beatles show Love MANAGING EDITOR Andrew Davis It’s vulgar. I don’t understand it—or, I should say ask Trump one question, it would be this: “Have and I found an excellent Indian restaurant. I didn’t ASSOCIATE EDITOR Matt Simonette I “didn’t” understand it until I recently spent three BUSINESS MANAGER Ripley Caine you ever had sex with someone else without pay- gamble and I didn’t hire a whore. DIRECTOR OF NEW MEDIA Jean Albright days in Las Vegas. ing for it?” I suspect he has not. Is there anything I hated Las Vegas. It’s a clogged-up toilet, an ART DIRECTOR Kirk Williamson Now I understand it. wrong with that? Well, yes, actually there is. If he’s embarrassment to this country. I can’t wait to go SENIOR REPORTER Gretchen Rachel Hammond Senior Account Executives Terri Klinsky, As I walked down the strip I was handed cards, paying for sex-let’s not be naïve, Melania isn’t with back. It’s like visiting a zoo. Next time, I’m taking each with a photograph of a curvaceous prostitute Kirk Williamson, Amy Matheny, Gretchen Rachel him for love-then women become commodities. He cookies to feed the johns as they look for whores. Hammond, Scott Duff, Monika Pickett, David and a telephone number. The assumption was: 1) once owned the Miss America contest. Nuff said! Donald Trump thinks that money can buy any- Strzepek I’m straight, and 2) I’m so ugly and insecure that I What does he care about women’s health issues? If thing. However, one thing money can’t buy is pov- NATIONAL SALES Rivendell Media, 212-242- have to pay for sex. 6863 one gets sick he can trade her in for a new one— erty. SENIOR WRITERS Bob Roehr, Tony Peregrin, I have never and never will pay for sex. not one made in the States, as an American woman Maybe that’s why he hates the poor. Lisa Keen, Yasmin Nair The word “TRUMP” atop his Las Vegas casino wouldn’t put up with his B.S. THEATER EDITOR Scott C. Morgan CINEMA WRITER Richard Knight Jr. SPORTS WRITER Ross Forman ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT WRITERS Mary Shen Barnidge, Lawrence Ferber, Mel Ferrand, Jerry Nunn, Jonathan Abarbanel COLUMNISTS/WRITERS: Yvonne Zipter, Jorjet lion, 44-percent cut from the FY 15 budget passed cludes adequate funding for HIV services. Harper, Charlsie Dewey, Carrie Maxwell, Billy Letters: by the General Assembly and signed by Governor “The General Assembly and governor need to Masters, Sarah Toce, Dana Rudolph, Melissa Pat Quinn in May 2014, the last time Illinois had start looking for ways to generate revenue instead Wasserman, Joe Franco, Nick Patricca, Liz Baudler, Rex Wockner, Angelique Smith an actual budget in place. of continually cutting from budgets that can’t af- SENIOR PHOTOGRAPHERS Kat Fitzgerald, Hal Lives at stake African-American HIV/AIDS Response Act ford it,” said Daniel Frey, director of government Baim, Tim Carroll, Ed Negron (AAARA): The governor’s budget includes a relations at AFC. “Stop doing the same thing and WEBSITE LISTINGS VOLUNTEER Gene Naden For the third year in a row, Illinois Gov. Bruce $200,000 appropriation to the AAARA, which is a expecting a different outcome. There are plenty CIRCULATION DIRECTOR Jean Albright Rauner failed to present the Illinois General As- DISTRIBUTION Ashina, Allan, Dan, John, Sue $300,000 cut from the governor’s FY 16 and FY 17 of ways the state can generate revenue; we look and Victor sembly with a budget that protects the state’s most proposals. The last time Illinois had a budget, it forward to working with legislators on identifying WEB HOSTING LoveYourWebsite.com (lead vulnerable people, proposing a 44-percent cut to was appropriated $1.5 million, though those funds solutions.” programmer: Martie Marro) vital HIV funding streams in his budget address on were never spent by the state. To that end, AFC urges Governor Rauner and the Copyright 2017 Lambda Publications Inc./Windy City Media Feb. 15. Supportive Housing services: The governor pro- legislature to identify sources of tax funding to Group; All rights reserved. Reprint by permission only. Back “The budget proposed today is outright danger- issues (if available) for $5 per issue (postage included). posed a $4 million appropriation to supportive replace the 2011 temporary income tax increase, Return postage must accompany all manuscripts, drawings, ous for people living with HIV and will certainly and photographs submitted if they are to be returned, and housing services. This is an increase from the Gov- which expired Jan. 1, 2015. Also, the governor no responsibility may be assumed for unsolicited materials. result in more new HIV cases,” said John Peller, ernor’s initial proposal for FY 16, when the line and Illinois politicians need to stop talking about All rights to letters, art and photographs sent to Windy president/CEO of the AIDS Foundation of Chicago City Times will be treated as unconditionally assigned was eliminated, and flat funding from his FY 17 working together and actually come together to for publication purposes and as such, subject to editing (AFC). “And if the U.S. Congress and President and comment. The opinions expressed by the columnists, proposal. (AFC will provide information on funding pass a positive budget, to ensure that Illinoisans cartoonists, letter writers, and commentators are their own Trump have their way, our most vulnerable neigh- levels for other supportive housing lines when that most in need are able to count on the essential and do not necessarily reflect the position ofWindy City bors will be left without comprehensive health care Times. Publication of the name, photograph, or likeness of information is made available in the coming days.) services they require. a person or organization in articles or advertising in Windy coverage. Without national health care coverage or City Times is not to be construed as any indication of the These additional cuts to health and social ser- As the General Assembly begins its debate on this sexual orientation of such person or organization. While adequate state funding for HIV services, Gov. Raun- vice programs will have a devastating effect on budget, AFC looks forward to working with Gov. we encourage readers to support the advertisers who make er is setting people in our state up for devastating this newspaper possible, Windy City Times cannot accept the 37,788 people diagnosed with HIV in Illinois. Rauner, his administration and the General Assem- responsibility for advertising claims. health catastrophes.” The situation will be even worse if President Trump bly on a positive budget solution that will benefit (773) 871-7610 FAX (773) 871-7609 The governor has proposed the following HIV and e-mail: [email protected] or and Congress repeal the Affordable Care Act (ACA), all Illinoisans. [email protected] supportive housing amounts in the budget for Fis- as 12,000 people in Illinois who are living with Visit AIDSChicago.org/page/our-work/advocacy/ cal Year (FY) 2018: www.WindyCityMediaGroup.com HIV could lose their coverage provided by the ACA. advocacy-days-2017 to register for 2017 Spring- podcast: WindyCityQueercast.com HIV Lump Sum: The budget includes a $15 million While the Centers for Disease Control and Preven- field Advocacy Days, which will take place April 4 appropriation for the HIV Lump Sum, the state’s tion (CDC) reported that new HIV cases have gone and May 17. WINDY CITY MEDIA GROUP, flagship HIV funding stream. This is $3 million less 5315 N. Clark St. #192, Chicago, IL, 60640 U.S.A down nationally by 18 percent between 2008 and (MAILING ADDRESS ONLY) than the Governor’s FY 17 proposal, a $5 million 2014, the trend is likely to go in the opposite di- AIDS Foundation of Chicago cut from his first proposal for FY 16, and a $12 mil- Windy City Times Deadline every Wednesday. rection in Illinois without a state budget that in- OUT! Chicago’s LGBTQ Visitor’s Guide Online www.WindyCityMediaGroup.com WINDY CITY TIMES Feb. 22, 2017 13 WINDY CITY TIMES DIVERSIONS THEATER • FILM • ENTERTAINMENT • SPORTS

14 20 20 ‘Bog’ ladies Kelsey Phillips and Kristin Collins are in By the Bog of Cats. Mercadito dinner. Northalsted Frost Fest. Photo by Joe Mazza/Brave Lux Photography

SCOTTISH PLAY SCOTT content-producing workshops to add to the previ- Milwaukee Ave. Tickets are $20-$30 and $10- ously gathered stories. Those not onstage were $15 for students; call 312-226-9633 or visit also included via voice-overs, or on the produc- Collaboraction.org. tion side of things. ‘Gender’ identity “I’m a Black woman and I’m a queer woman, but More queer-friendly collaboration I’ve never played a queer woman on stage,” said Collaboraction’s Gender Breakdown isn’t the By SCOTT C. MORGan which she was already very good at,” Hawbaker- actor-poet Mia Vivens, one of Gender Breakdown’s only show playing in Chicago featuring a script Krohn said. “We had discussions and of course, ensemble members. “I thought it was really in- by multiple contributors. Chicago Slam Works There’s an old adage that too many cooks spoil there were sensitive comments and people had teresting that stories about people who look like Ensemble Theatre deployed many actor/author/ the soup. Others would argue the opposite, es- opinions and emotions, so it was a vibrant room.” me and who live lives like me, those stories aren’t slam poets to create the world-premiere farcical pecially when it comes to the vital collaboration Questionnaires were also sent out to help gath- being produced or written and there’s some sort comedy Nevermind, It’s Nothing. It’s an odd situ- necessary to create live theater. er not only more stories, but quantifiable data to of gap there.” ation of two lesbians throwing a party to com- An extraordinary amount of collaboration has help build the show. Gender Breakdown also pig- Vivens was glad that there was a safe creative memorate their pending divorce, but also in the gone into Collaboraction’s world premiere of Gen- gy-backed on Kay Kron’s DePaul University Mas- environment and plenty of respect among all the mix are stand-alone and related poems on love der Breakdown, a devised theater piece drawing ter Thesis on gender inequities which studied 52 artists working on Gender Breakdown. So she and breakups. from more than 200 artists looking at the lack of Chicago-area theaters and more than 250 plays said there wasn’t much competitive jockeying for “In Slam Works when we develop pieces, it’s gender equity in the Chicago-area theater scene. in Jeff Award-nominated plays from the 2015-16 more stage time. Vivens also sees a larger poten- very personalized,” said Nevermind head writer Gender Breakdown was spearheaded by Dani Bry- season (Kron opted not to include musicals in tial impact from Gender Breakdown. Shelley Elaine Geiszler. When she was asked to ant and director Erica Vannon, and features an her study). One of the findings mentioned in a “[Gender Breakdown’s creators] specifically oversee a comedy for the season, Geiszler made all-female-identified cast and production team. Gender Breakdown press release was that only 25 wanted to tell a story about Chicago theater and certain to create a very inclusive queer comic “For about a year before we started rehears- percent of plays had female authors and that only the Chicago theater community, but I think it re- situation to reflect the diverse members of Slam als in January, we were conducting what we were 36 percent were directed by women. ally translates into film and TV work as well as Works. calling ‘off menus’ which were pot luck-style “I think we all know what the data is, but we other theater cities across the country,” Vivens “I would have just been impossible to write gatherings where we invited different individu- don’t really understand the impact until we at- said. “Being really specific about it in the re- this kind of show and not center it in that way-- als to talk about this specific topic of gender tach a personal narrative to it,” Hawbaker-Krohn search and in the stories that we’re telling helps so many of the people who worked on this show parity in Chicago theater,” said Kate Hawbaker- said. to make it feel like it’s part of a bigger picture.” identify as queer or lesbian or gay. We wouldn’t Krohn, the production’s dramaturg and an acting To get the diverse cast together, many writ- The official press opening for Collaborac- have been able to create a show any other way,” ensemble member who identifies as gender non- ers and performers were invited to audition. Once tion’s Gender Breakdown is 7 p.m. on Wed., Geiszler said. “I think it makes for a more inter- conforming. the cast was selected this past August, the indi- Feb. 22, and the show continues through Sun- esting and inclusive experience and a richer show “I helped Dani in how to create a safe space, vidual actors were able to bring their own per- day, March 19 in The Vault at Collaboraction in general.” sonal casting and performing experiences in more Studios in the Flat Iron Arts Building, 1579 N. Chicago Slam Works Ensemble Theatre’s Nev- ermind, It’s Nothing continues through Friday, March 24, at Stage 773, 1225 W. Belmont Ave. Performance times are 8:15 p.m. Fridays and 2 p.m. Saturdays. Tickets are $15-$25. For more information, call 773-327-5252 or visit Chica- Ensemble goSlamWorks.com. members of Collaboractions’s Gender Corrections Breakdown. In the Feb. 15 issue, Merce Cunningham’s . Also, Ricardo Photo courtesy of name was spelled incorrectly Collaboraction Gutierrez is directing The Wolf at the End of the Block. Windy City Times regrets the errors. 14 Feb. 22, 2017 WINDY CITY TIMES THEATER REVIEW The Paramount Theatre’s first take on Sweeney Paul-Jordan Jansen’s powerful baritone vocals are Paul-Jordan Jansen in Sweeney Todd. Todd is a gloriously grandiose production to rival beautiful and disturbing. True, Jansen may gloss Sweeney Todd Photo by Liz Lauren any previous opera house staging. But more im- over some of his character’s rare moments of gal- Music and Lyrics: Stephen Sondheim; portantly, director Jim Corti’s chilling approach lows humor, but that’s forgivable since Bri Sudia Book: Hugh Wheeler to the material smartly succeeds at delivering more than makes up the high comedy quotient At: Paramount Theatre, the show’s moments of high terror and desperate alongside sturdy vocals as Sweeney’s manipula- 23 E. Galena Blvd., Aurora emotion. tive baking neighbor, Mrs. Lovett. Tickets: 630-896-6666 or Yes, die-hard Sondheim purists will likely be- The supporting cast is no slouch vocally or dra- ParamountAurora.com; $44-$59 moan Corti’s decision to make minor score and matically either. Cecilia Iole and Patrick Rooney Runs through: March 19 dialogue edits. Some adjustments are purely lo- are lovely as the romantic ingenues Johanna and gistical to play out on Jeffrey D. Kmiec’s towering Anthony. As Sweeney’s chief rivals, Larry Adams BY SCOTT C. MORGAN industrial-scale unit set. But other Corti changes makes for a very lascivious Judge Turpin, while smartly rethink key climactic moments, ranging both Craig W. Underwood and Matt Deitchman vo- When it debuted in 1979, Sweeney Todd: The from the zombie-inspired customers in the Act II cally soar in the respective high-tenor roles of Demon Barber of Fleet Street shocked Broadway opener, “God, That’s Good,” to Emily Rohm larger The Beadle and rival barber Adolfo Pirelli. audiences with its tragic bloody tale of a mur- involvement as the pitiful Beggar Woman (no Since it is so bleak, Sweeney Todd may be a derous Victorian barber whose victims became other spoilers from me). tough sell for Aurora audiences used to the Para- fillings for meat pies purchased by unsuspecting Paramaount deploys a luxurious 19-piece or- mount’s usual programming of feel-good musical customers. But nowadays Stephen Sondheim and chestra majestically and fleetly conducted by hits. But the Paramount more than makes good Hugh Wheeler’s eight-time Tony Award-winning music director Tom Vendafreddo. Corti has also on living up to Sweeney Todd’s critical reputation revenge thriller has become so respected that it cast a vocally strong ensemble to do full justice as a thrilling musical masterpiece. is one of the few musicals to have entered the to Sondheim’s lushly dark score. operatic repertoire. In the title role of the wronged London barber,

THEATER REVIEW on earth. back home, where he now works a part-time low- and mixed-race children), or that Drew came to Playwright Young Jean Lee invites us to ob- level clerical job for a nonprofit and helps out accept his accomplishments only after extensive Straight serve four examples of this demographic—a clan around the house. Matt bakes pies, he wipes up psychoanalysis, or that Ed’s nostalgic idealization patriarch and his three sons—viewed on Christ- spills—boys love to make messes, you know— of the narrow choices open to men of a certain White Men mas Eve. A pair of gender-ambiguous Koken pose and sometimes he succumbs to brief, but unex- culture belies the delight he now takes in his Playwright: Young Jean Lee them like diorama mannequins in a basement rec plained, crying jags. used BMW, guitar lessons and puffin collection. At: Steppenwolf Theatre, room (now serving as a museum for toys span- If this were a non-WASP family, Matt would be When the major part of your dialogue is the 1650 N. Halsted St. ning the evolution from board games to elec- the “good son” watching over the elders. If the familiar manspeak of potty jokes, orifice-based Tickets: $20-$89 tronic pastimes), in preparation for a bachelor boys had a sister, tradition would have automati- epithets, grunts, howls and barks, punctuated by Runs through: March 19 holiday celebrated with meals ordered in, taken cally assigned her these duties. If the lone parent retro-hormonal kinetic seizures, it’s not easy to out or gobbled from Costco-sized jars of snacks. had been a widowed mother, no one would ques- reject sketch-comedy caricature, as the company BY MARY SHEN BARNIDGE Hosting the annual reunion is retired engineer tion the necessity of kin providing full-time care. assembled for this Steppenwolf production does, and clan patriarch Ed. Guests include banker son It isn’t, they don’t and he’s not, however, and to instead articulate (intelligently, insightfully They are so ubiquitous that we rarely even have Jake, university professor/book author son Drew so Matt’s temporary impasse is seen as a patho- and compassionately) the breadth of existential to speak their name. They are the “baseline” and then there’s Matt—a gung-ho student activ- logical condition in need of remedy. It doesn’t pressure exerted upon favored offspring by an im- against which metabolic functions, pharmaceu- ist, Harvard graduate, volunteer tutor in Ghana matter that Jake resents the compromises he patient society demanding immediate return on tical dosages and testimonial accuracy are mea- and Stanford Ph.D. candidate, who abruptly made in order to ensure his success (notably, his their investment. sured. They are also often the loneliest creatures dropped out, citing student loan debts, to move recent divorce from his African-American wife c CRITICS’PICKS THEATER REVIEW Unlike our own country’s wetlands, Ireland’s pelts to lap wine from a saucer. muddy bogs are composed of decayed vegeta- In opera, the music serves to establish the The Assembled Parties, Raven Theatre, By the Bog of Cats tion dating back millennia, their isolation ren- requisite emotive atmosphere, assisted by stage through March 25. The best things in life, be- Playwright: Marina Carr dering them a favored campsite for nomadic pictures replete with shadowy corners invok- ing free, can’t be bought, and Richard Greenberg At: Artistic Home, 1376 W. Grand Ave. subcultures—called Romany, Tinkers or Travel- ing primitive sorcery to banish any thought of sings the smart-rich-white-urban-overachiever Tickets: $28-$32 ers, according to region. This blasted heath is mundane solutions like child support or pre- blues better than anybody since J.D. Salinger. Runs through: March 26 where the handsome Carthage Kilbride built a nuptial contracts. What holds us spellbound in MSB love nest for his tinker-raised paramour, Hes- this intimate Artistic Home production, under Saturday Night Fever, Drury Lane Theatre, BY MARY SHEN BARNIDGE ter Swane, and their young daughter. Their the direction of John Mossman, is the sheer Oakbrook Terrace, extended through April 9. common-law union does not prevent Carthage’s commitment of an acting ensemble exhibiting A new script and director/choreographer Dan Euripides wasn’t the first to recount the story social-climbing mother brokering a match to the the full-throated passion demanded of tragedy Knechtges all help to make a strong and dazzling of bad-mommy Medea, but his is the version wealthy Cassidy clan, mandating erasure of the without ever compromising the connection with case for the latest screen-to-stage adaptation of best-known today: how the princess of Colchis groom’s youthful indiscretions. Hester isn’t one its audience. the iconic 1977 disco film. SCM eloped with Corinthian fortune hunter Jason, to surrender quietly, though. At the center of the inexorable conflict is The Tall Girls, Shattered Globe Theatre at The- only to find herself alone and friendless in a “Even in the confession, they lie,” sighs the Kristin Collins, whose portrayal of the obsessed ater Wit, through Feb. 25. Meg Miroshnik’s wistful foreign land, abandoned by her husband, who local priest, speaking of these powerful fami- Hester propels us through a dizzying range of Depression Era drama shows how basketball en- plots to take custody of their children and marry lies. Despite the efforts of both the bride and visceral responses arising from the clash of un- livens the dreams of young women who are brave a rich heiress. groom to negotiate a peaceful reconciliation yielding convictions accelerated by Frank Nall enough to push against regimented societal ex- Well, what did you expect in a time where roy- between the intractable elders and the spurned and Jane DeLaubenfels, playing the autocratic pectations of them. SCM alty—abetted by gods, yet—pretty much did as guardian, their entreaties are futile in a uni- patriarch Cassidy and stifling widow Kilbride. Priscilla, Queen of the Desert, Pride Films they damn well pleased? (Euripides was writing verse beyond the reach of law or church, where From the first moments, we can only watch, and Plays at the Pride Arts Broadway, extended in 431 B.C., remember.) Playwright Marina Carr modern-day incarnations of banshees and poo- like the innocents caught in the crossfire, as through March 12. Honey West, Jon Nasca’s daz- transposes the ancient myth to turn-of-the- kahs roam nature’s ancient graveyards and the the course of True Love Thwarted comes to its zling-Glam wardrobe, rainbow-haired guardian millennium Ireland and, in doing so, refutes our list of wedding guests always includes the reclu- inevitable conclusion. muses and a chorus of smiling athletic dancers smug illusions of urban enlightenment. sive Catwoman, who arrives cloaked in animal in a room barely bigger than a Starbucks—what more invitation do you need? MSB —By Abarbanel, Barnidge and Morgan WINDY CITY TIMES Feb. 22, 2017 15 Kevin’s Room notes 15 years of Black HIV/AIDS awareness Everyone is talking about By Gretchen Rachel Hammond STRAIGHT National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day Feb. 7 saw a celebration of the 15th Anniversary of the release of the film Kevin’s Room. WHITE MEN The event was held at the Baton Show Lounge ” in Chicago’s River North neighborhood. “ “ — Hosted by the Chicago Black Gay Men’s Caucus 1/2 Wonderful play alongside event sponsors the Chicago Department (out of four) still thinking about it days after” of Public Health, the evening was as much a joy- – Sue, Facebook fascinating and hugely arresting ous look back on the making of the groundbreak- – Chicago Tribune ing work as it was a sobering look at the explora- tion of the challenges still faced by the Black gay … and queer community around which the narrative “Smart, funny, and unsettling of the profound, funny and deeply moving drama Lora Branch at Kevin’s Room event. an insightful look at families, privilege, and much more” – Splash is based. Photo by Gretchen Rachel Hammond A capacity audience filled the Baton Show Lounge to enjoy a repeat screening of Kevin’s cago. “This film has been an amazing part of my “The best play I’ve seen in years. Room as well as a reunion with the cast and film- ” makers. Free HIV/AIDS testing and Meningitis life. It was written to be relevant and on things Brilliant and thought provoking vaccinations were also available. that people were talking about but were afraid to – Leah, Facebook A panel discussion moderated by Chicago Black have an open discussion.” “This really could have been a continuous se- Gay Men’s Caucus Executive Director Erik Elias “ things up— Glenn featured Kevin’s Room writer, Executive ries of stories,” Zurek said while asserting that Stirring she felt “incredibly lucky” to be a part of Kevin’s on stage and in the minds of its crowds” Producer and former Chicago Department of Pub- – Stage and Cinema lic Health Office of Lesbian and Gay Health Direc- Room. tor Lora Branch, Kevin’s Room producer/director “The reason we made Kevin’s Room with an Sharon Zurek and star Keith Butler (Kevin). Afterschool Special feel was so that we could “We didn’t have much messaging for Black gay show it on a Sunday night to a mainstream au- people,” Branch said recalling the genesis of the dience who would not turn away,” Branch said. film. “I’d been in the HIV field since 1991 and I “We achieved that goal. There was an estimated would have to fight to get resources and atten- 200,000 people who saw it the night that it tion for Black gay men whose [infection] num- aired.” bers had started to skyrocket. But there was so “What we did mattered and had an impact on much homophobia and stigma. I figured we could our community,” Butler said. “Because of our pool resources together and do something that film, the conversation within the African Ameri- people would be interested in.” can community about HIV/AIDS started to form “I was very fortunate to have dealt with the in groups in homes and in churches.” struggle of sexuality and spirituality a long time For more information about the Chicago ago,” Butler said before noting that he has since Black Gay Men’s Caucus, visit ChiBlackGayCau- found a family in the Lighthouse Church of Chi- cus.org.

Written and directed by eSPOTLIGHT Young Jean Lee

Megan Donahue’s world-premiere play Name- less Mountains, for Accomplice Theatre, makes a point that LGBTQ people can be found throughout history. At least that’s part of the drama involving a bisexual woman who finds Tickets start at just $20 | steppenwolf. org | 312-335-1650 herself trapped alongside a struggling preacher and a number of prostitutes inside a Klondike brothel circa 1899 during a massive snowstorm. requested by visiting AccompliceTheatre.com. Corporate Production Sponsor Nameless Mountains continues through Satur- Cast members of the world-premiere day, March 11, at the Charnel House, 3421 W. play Nameless Mountains. Publicity photo Fullerton Ave. Performance times are 7:30 p.m. courtesy of Accomplice Theatre Thursdays through Saturdays. Tickets are free, but donations are appreciated. Reservations 16 Feb. 22, 2017 WINDY CITY TIMES RISE from cover be told on a bigger stage. piece in the oral history. perfect for her. My mother described him as the gay Forrest We have a history that goes back hundreds of When you have a personal connection it is very Gump because he has been there at every critical years, but so much of it has been covered with meaningful. It can mean their performances will After researching Harvey Milk’s life for three moment in gay rights, and always trying to do shame and not recorded in a way that is easily be incredibly authentic. years he made the film Milk, for which he won the the right thing. accessible to young people today, who need to Look up the young cast, too, because they are Oscar for Best Original Screenplay. He followed It was important to me to add more characters draw on it for inspiration and to feel less alone fantastic. that up by Directing the movie Virginia, and like Cecilia Chung, who was trans before there in the world. WCT: You directed the last two hours. Did writing the screenplay for J. Edgar. was a word for that. I think history is power. It shows us what to do you want to direct more of it? His latest project is called When We Rise. I had different people who were fighting for in the face of a backlash so damn it we need it DLB: I only direct more when I think it is It is a miniseries for ABC that follows the social justice who fled to San Francisco. They right now. This show shows us how we failed or best for the project. When I spend so much time accomplishments of a variety of LGBT pioneers found a city that didn’t hold all of the promises succeeded in the face of backlash. The backlash researching the script it important to have a over time. This groundbreaking story stars Guy that they had hoped, so they fought to create the we are experiencing right now is not new and collaborator to keep me objective. Pierce as Cleve Jones, Mary-Louise Parker as Roma change they needed. there are ways to combat it. Combating it is why Sometimes I am the ideal candidate to direct. Guy, and Rachel Griffiths as Roma’s wife, Diane. I wanted to do something that is not done it is called When We Rise. It means we can keep In this case the last two hours are two hours that in most civil rights story telling. With these the pendulum from swinging too far backwards. I lived. It made sense that I direct those two. It Windy City Times: Hi, Dustin. Where are you characters, most of them are still alive and It is a really important lesson for activists. I is about what serves the project the most. I try calling from? working for equality today. I want this to be hope it is a bright torch that can be passed to not to make it about ego. Dustin Lance Black: From gray, soggy London. I inspirational to a new generation. I want them young activists, but also calls back older activists WCT: Trump’s State of the Union address is have not seen the sun in months! to know in the end that most of these folks made because we are not done. scheduled right in the middle of the series WCT: Why did you move there from LA? it. The people can live a life with love, and joy, WCT: I like the song “Rise Up,” by Andra run? DLB: To be with my fiancé. His office is not but get political when necessary. You can survive Day, that’s used in the previews. DLB: It is, but ABC is stepping up in a major mobile. Mine is just a laptop when I am not in and thrive. DLB: I can’t take credit for that. As far as the way to keep our audience. There is an increase production. It was a pretty easy negotiation. I After having a told a story that didn’t end that soundtrack, we had all this period music picked in commercials to remind people to tune back had to come here! way, I decided it was high time to have one that out to transport an audience back to that time, in. They are making the first two hours available WCT: How was When We Rise created? does. but I didn’t want it to be dusty. We went out online. That is rather unheard of. It is a bold new

Michael DeLorenzo and Jonathan Majors (left), Michael K. Williams (center) and Rachel Griffiths (right) star in Dustin Lance Black’s miniseries When We Rise. Photos from ABC

DLB: I heard four years ago that ABC was WCT: That was what I thought after watching to get some of the young talent of today to re- step. They are airing a miniseries from head to starting to option LGBT books. I thought that Milk. Who is our Harvey Milk today? record songs from the past. That is what you will toe over the course of one week. They haven’t was interesting because four years before that I DLB: That was on my checklist. I needed them hear on the show. done that since Roots. They are showing a huge was paying for rights for Milk on my credit card to be activists today. That is a small group of WCT: Was it difficult to get so many big amount of faith in the show, which is a nice because no one was interested in LGBT projects. people because it is tough work. I needed them celebrities onboard for When We Rise? compliment. I wanted to create something that went to come from other social movements. I wanted DLB: Well, first we go for the best actors to I want conservatives to be able to watch both beyond the gay, white, male experience and was them to still be alive. At the end of the day we bring the roles to life. We put the word out that programs without it competing in any way, and more diverse. I wanted to do it on a network have men and women, gay and straight, Black we were doing a show with this subject on ABC introduce everyone to this diverse group of LGBT that wouldn’t just be preaching to the choir. I and white, cisgender and trans, who have new and I think it got a lot of people’s attention. people. put down everything that I was working on to leaders they can look up to and draw inspiration It is not often that actors can do roles like these WCT: What are you working on right now? do this. from. They can follow them on Twitter, Facebook that might push the needle towards equality. DLB: Right now I have a movie on HBO about I spent a year researching the stories to and Instagram. They can go to their rallies or ask We received a “no” only because of scheduling. Bayard Rustin and a TV show at FX called The depict. I wanted to do it in a way that not only them how to make one of their own. My dream was Mary-Louise Parker for Roma, Residence. It is an Upstairs, Downstairs story set communicates with LGBT, but other folks, like my WCT: There is a whole generation of LGBT and that is where we started. Rachel Griffiths in the White House. I also have a miniseries on family, who are conservative and Southern. people who don’t know their history. came next and suggested Guy Pierce. Michael Charles Lindbergh for HBO. I was concerned that the LGBT-rights DLB: There is that, isn’t there? I have dedicated K. Williams called in with a passionate phone The thing that is most personal to me this year movements were becoming separated. That makes my life and put myself in a pigeonhole of LGBT call telling us about the people he had known is that I am writing a book called Mama’s Boy: us weaker. I looked for real people that had been history because I feel it is unwritten in a that he lost to AIDS. Whoopi Goldberg cut her The Story of Two Americas. it is about me and involved in other social justice movements. What popularized fashion. It is because networks and teeth performing in San Francisco and knew Pat my conservative Mormon mom. We found where I found was people like Roma Guy, who had to book publishers have not rushed to green light Norman, so she was the ideal choice to play her. the bridges were between our two Americas. By leave the National Organization for Women LGBT stories in the world in the way that they Gus Van Sant, who directed the first episode, shining a little light on it, I hope to make a dent because they were kicking out lesbians, and have other civil rights stories. They are starting did a Skype with Rosie O’Donnell, who talked in the divide. Cleve Jones, who I had depicted in Milk. He was to. passionately about gender. After reading Del When We Rise begins Feb. 27 and continues a supporting character before, but this time I We lost so many of our forefathers and their Martin, it helped her understand these issues March 1-3 on ABC at 8 p.m. CT. thought his story was compelling and needed to stories thanks to a plague. There was a missing that she was dealing with better, so that role was WINDY CITY TIMES Feb. 22, 2017 17 CULTURECULTURE CLUBCLUB

FEBRUARY 17– APRIL 1 at

Art by Erik R. Sosa. Photo courtesy of Sosa

New Erik R. Sosa art TRUGLIA. exhibit at Feb. 24 sleep-in “No Paint Left Behind”—a one-night-only art exhibition Sosa’s passion for art is carried over to his passion of SAVERIO BY PHOTO MYERS. DEANNA AND RY of new paintings by Erik R. Sosa—will be unveiled Friday, supporting the non-profit community. In the past he has Feb. 24, at the Second Presbyterian Church, 1936 S. Michi- donated pieces of work to benefit such diverse organiza- gan Ave.. It is part of the 2nd Out in the Open Sleep In to tions as Center on Halsted, Victor C. Neumann Association, benefit 13 homeless agencies that see youth. AIDS Foundation of Chicago, Vital Bridges, Spanish Coali- Sosa is a self-taught Mexican-American artist, born in tion for Jobs and Heartland, to name just a few. MONTGOME MARK GISE, SARAH PICTURED: Mexico City and raised in the Uptown neighborhood of Chi- Sosa earned the coveted VOX/Out Emerging Voices of cago. Currently, he lives with his partner of 15 years and Style + Design award this year. To commemorate its fifth BEGINS two adopted children in Kenosha, Wisconsin. year, VOX and Out will be honoring artists and designers ND The Feb. 24 opening is 5-8 p.m., with 100 percent of the who are just beginning to establish a name for themselves FEBRUARY 22 proceeds going to the non-profit agencies. The opening . The first of five honorees nationwide, Sosa will receive 847-242-6000 | WRITERSTHEATRE.ORG reception will feature music from the Chicago subway a the VOX/Out Emerging Voices of Style + Design Award at cappella group The Remedy, and a first look at the exciting Sidetrack Chicago July 27. new work by Sosa. The Out in the Open Sleep In program For more information about Sosa, his work and the up- starts at 7 p.m. While the Sleep In is open too registered coming exhibition, visit ErikSosa.com. participants at www.sleepinchicago.org, the show portion is open to all for a $20 donation. “No Paint Left Behind” is a kaleidoscope of paintings, Babes’ ‘Henry V’ ranging in form and style, that uses all of the acrylic paint coming from the tubes. When mounting an exhibi- opens Feb. 27 tion, Sosa feels each show offers him the unique oppor- Babes with Blades’ production of William Shake- tunity to create an atmosphere with his canvases serving speare’s Henry V (with an all-female cast) opens Mon- as the background to inspire the audience. His past work day, Feb. 27, at City Lit Theater, 1020 W. Bryn Mawr has been compared to Kandinsky, Harring and Pollock, but Ave. Sosa’s new exhibition showcases his own unique style by Previews will be Feb. 18-26; the production is slated creating 3D acrylic floral images. to run through Saturday, April 1. “As an abstract expressionist, I don’t define myself to any Events have been scheduled in connection with one particular style,” said Sosa. “I’m continually inspired Henry V, including the free post-show discussion “Sur- from all directions of life.” Through his combination of prising Shakespeare” (Sunday, March 5), the discus- bright colors, geometric designs, organic shapes and/or sion “Wherefore All-Female?” (Thursday, March 23) and free-hand motion, Sosa produces an art style that is fresh the announcement of Babes with Blades’ playwriting and vibrant. “I never really know what I’ll be painting or competition (Friday, March 31). creating,” says Sosa. “You could say each canvas starts of Tickets are $10 (previews)-$25; see BabesWith- as a page in a coloring book. After a while, unused paint Blades.org or call 773-904-0391. starts to dry and in turn I use those bits and pieces to create 3D floral images.” 18 Feb. 22, 2017 WINDY CITY TIMES BOOK REVIEW Indomitable: The Life of Barbara Grier By Joanne Passet $28.95; Bella Books; 359 pages by LIZ BAUDLER

On the third page of Indomitable: The Life of Barbara Grier, the woman herself is described as “rude and insensitive.” This serves not as deter- rence for readers, or as a sign that biographer Joanne Passet can’t stand her subject, but piques curiosity. So, how did a rude, insensitive woman network her way into creating a landmark lesbian publishing company? And how rude and insensi- takes: how her drive often pushed authors away tive was she if that’s how she she’s remembered? and left people who entrusted her with their life Barbara Grier’s life was a study in pure drive stories feeling cold, but there’s still a deep rever- and passion. From the moment Grier realized she ence for what Grier was able to do, and the feel- Solomon Infiniti, Maxine Scott and Sasha Lauren. might be a lesbian, she went to the library to ing that meeting her might make you appreciate Photo by Vern Hester confirm her suspicions, and this desire dictated her even more. the course of her existence for the next several Passett’s prose somehow manages to simulta- resource fair, a movie night at the Icon Theater decades. Never college educated, Grier did her neously remain academic and convey Grier’s fire. own, self-directed research on lesbian stories, Love Out Loud Ball (a screening of A Darker Shade of Grey), a night She is a master of the well-chosen illuminating at Lyric Opera and a Beauty Pamper Party get and her knowledge alone connected her to or- quote, such as this, about Jane Rule’s friend- closes 10-day ganizations such as the Daughter of Bilitis and together. ship with Grier (which the isolated Grier always In Demand, which hosted and sponsored the their publication The Ladder, and to personali- wished to deepen into romance). “You are who festival of events ties including Barbara Gittings and Jane Rule. As by Vernon Hester Love Out Loud Ball, is a community-based or- you are,” Rule writes in the aftermath of a dis- ganization that provides services to young men we watch Grier professionally develop, we see her agreement, “which is sometimes a great blessing, stifled by a 20-year relationship with Helen, a li- On Feb. 12, In Demand Entertainment closed who have sex with men of color, transgender sometimes a great trial. That is the experience of individuals and same-gender-loving couples brarian who simultaneously provides for her, giv- a friendship that grows as steadily and soundly as out The Love Out Loud Festival of Events with ing her the space to read and write, and cripples the 14th Annual Love Out Loud Ball at Cap- through the presentation and support of ball ours does. You don’t ever need to apologize to me culture. Founded in 2002, the organization has her, reading her mail and eschewing company. about who you are.” tain Hardtimes Dining. The ball featured a It’s a relief when Donna McBride appears on the full-course dinner, a fashion show, a talent partnered with other organizations in order to Granted, Passet had a lot of material to work bridge the gap between public health and so- scene, first as a library clerk who fills Grier’s vo- with: Grier (1933-2011) produced reams of let- competition and a ball competition that in- luminous requests: The slow ratcheting of Grier’s cluded categories for lip sync, “realness,” hair cial service providers for the target community. ters in her work as researcher of lesbian litera- This year’s event acknowledged Black His- tension living with Helen is novelistic, growing ture and Ladder editor, reviewer and devoted fan. performance and “shoe fetish.” Awards were unbearable by the page. With Donna, change is presented at the close of the show. tory Month, National Black HIV/AIDS Aware- But her research is abundantly obvious, and she ness and The Love Out Loud Initiative. The possible. Grier can grow off the pages of The Lad- deftly balances and braids the threads of Grier’s Over 10 days starting Feb. 4, the festival der and use all of her connections and observa- featured an assortment of events, including evening was presented by Solomon Infiniti and life. Anyone with the vaguest interest in lesbian was sponsored by Elysse and Mark Avant-Garde, tional power to create a place for lesbian work to affairs, both literary and literal, should pick up documentary screenings (Kevin’s Room and flourish. Naiad Press became a fountain watering Strike A Pose), panel discussions (on Ballroom with original fashion wear provided by designer Indomitable, and prepare to fall in love with that Maxine Scott of Designs by Ms. M. Sasha Lauren the growth of feminist bookstores around the prickly Grier through her words and her will. Culture and Art AIDS America), a community country. Passet is frank about some of Grier’s mis- emceed the ball performances.

The Law Office of Mulryan Roger V. McCaffrey-Boss, P.C. When experience counts... In service to the community for over 35 years.

& York • Business Organization Attorneys At Law • Wills, Trusts & Probate • Real Estate Closings serving: Artists • Premarital Agreements Professionals 4001 N. Wolcott Business owners Chicago, IL 60613 33 N. Dearborn St., Suite 800, Chicago, IL 60602 (773) 248-8887 312-263-8800 [email protected] www.abd-cpas.com • (847) 257-7330 WINDY CITY TIMES Feb. 22, 2017 19 people’s heads up.” [Interviewer laughs.] That’s her new show Doubt, was just seen as a lawyer exactly what happens, though: It goes from this 30 minutes into the show, and not a trans law- Amiyah Scott. highly emotional moment to a fantastic. yer. I do realize that our stories need to be told, Photo courtesy of Fox WCT: This is your first television project, cor- though. rect? WCT: Now, is there anything at all you can AS: Yes, it’s my first major acting experience. tell us about Cotton on Star? Well, it happens to be my first acting experience AS: I don’t want to say too much, but I will give at all—and it happened to be major. you some insight. Cotton and Carlotta are going My fear, of course, was not being good or not to go through something, and that’s not spoiling being able to tell the story in a way the director anything. I think Cotton has gone through differ- wanted. I’m so glad that I was able to film in a ent situations, and things will get really intense. way that pleased people. Hopefully, Cotton and Carlotta can mend fences. WCT: What are your thoughts on being per- WCT: Hopefully—but, in that same episode, ceived as a role model? Carlotta wrongly assumed that the guy you AS: I totally embrace it. The thing is that even brought home was a ... though I may be a role model, I’m just a hu- AS: Was a john [Elliott, played by Jack Yang]. man being like everyone else. I’m a young woman And it goes to show what she thinks. There are so who’s still finding my way. As inspiring as I may many different layers to Cotton and Carlotta’s re- be to some, I’m still trying to figure my way out, lationship. Cotton is beginning to deal with some too. I’ll do whatever I have to do to step it up. things. We’re going to see a lot more of Cotton, WCT: And, out of curiosity, who inspires you? and see her deal with some real situations. AS: My mother, my family. I come from a very By the way, Jack is an amazing actor; we had large family: My mother has 10 brothers and sis- a great vibe. ters. My mother and father, actually, inspire me— WCT: Who would you like to work with? TELEVISION as well as anyone who is brave enough to be AS: Oh, wow. I’d love to work with Angela Bas- themselves. That’s so inspiring in a world where sett, Lynn Whitfield and Jada Pinkett Smith—but so many people hide, and don’t or can’t find the I’m open to expanding my growth. But those la- Amiyah Scott: strength to be themselves. I’ve had to hide in the dies I’ve really watched over the years. past; it’s such an uncomfortable situation. WCT: I’m so glad you said Lynn Whitfield’s WCT: Obviously, there haven’t been too many name because she’s one of those people whose transgender actors and actresses, although I talent has not been recognized over the years. Rising ‘Star’ remember Candis Cayne in the ABC show Dirty AS: Exactly. My best friend and I love her. Lynn Sexy Money. I’m assuming you’re looking for- is from Louisiana, like I am, and she’s done so ward to the day when you’re simply known as many great roles. an actress, and not a trans actress. Star is on Fox on Wednesdays. AS: Exactly! I like the fact that Laverne Cox, in by ANDREW DAVIS stories people sent afterward about how they watched the show with the children; it opened The Feb. 15 episode of the Fox show Star—about conversations and they were crying while they a girl group (composed of actresses Jude Demor- watched it. I had no idea it would be that [im- est, Ryan Destiny and Brittany O’Grady) attempt- pactful] and it’s humbling that I played a role ing to make it big—had transgender actress Ami- in that. yah Scott front and center. WCT: You mentioned certain members of the In the episode, “Mama’s Boy,” Scott had a piv- cast. Was it intimidating to work with them, otal scene as transgender character Cotton, who or did you just jump in and say it would be a agreed to meet with Pastor Harris (portrayed by learning experience? Tyrese Gibson) in an effort to reconcile with her AS: Well, of course, when people come with mother, Carlotta (played by Queen Latifah). What certain qualifications you can going to be slightly resulted was a powerful scene involving the min- intimidated. But it quickly becomes anticipation, ister, who sees Cotton’s transgenderism as a sin; and to be embraced by people like Queen or Ben- and Cotton, whose reaction led to an even more jamin [Bratt], who are veterans and who helped shocking turn. me and are patient, provided great mentors. Scott talked about the scene, cast and more WCT: And the cast seems pretty close-knit. with Windy City Times. For example, there’s a [cozy] pic of you and Windy City Times: Congratulations on the Chad James Buchanan [who plays Hunter] on show, and this particular episode. Instagram. Amiyah Scott: Oh, my God—thank you so, so AS: [Laughs] Yes, yes. He’s an amazing guy; much. This is the episode I was looking forward he’s an amazing actor. We actually share an act- to the most; once the scene with Tyrese, Queen ing coach, and we share great moments together. and myself was done, [creator] Lee [Daniels] was The girls and I are very, very close as well. I’m ranting and raving. It was amazing. blessed to have a closely knit, family-oriented WCT: I imagine that confrontation was the cast. most difficult scene in the episode to film. WCT: And with that pivotal scene with Cot- AS: Yes, it was. I imagine it was because it hit ton, there was a segment with Queen rapping home for me; it was very personal to me. I have that took me back to the ‘90s. been prayed over—maybe it wasn’t that intense, AS: Yes, yes. I think that scene was so intense but it was still very painful. To know that I was that we needed to break for a moment. going to re-enact that, and to be called pronouns Lee is notorious for that. I can recall in [Dan- I don’t identify with, was really difficult. iels’ movie] Precious that, during the most emo- However, I was ready to do that because I know tional scenes, it would break away into a song that we could possibly help someone. or fantasy. I don’t want to use profanity, but to I think what hit home were the inspirational quote Lee, you need to [heed] “the pain and fuck 20 Feb. 22, 2017 WINDY CITY TIMES Northalsted Frost Fest, Feb. 25-26 Cool off in this weirdly warm February at Northalsted Frost Fest, taking place this weekend, Sat., Febru- ary 25 and Sun., February 26. Saturday brings you a Craft Beer Festival, featuring over 40 craft brews with the opportunity to sample your choice of 15 of them while dancing in their huge outdoor heated (if need be) tent. Then on Sunday, fill your bellies with the fourth annual Soup Walk, featuring soups from Northalsted’s finest restaurants which can be sampled at different retail loca- tions along Halsted and Broadway. For more info, including ticket information, visit www. northalsted.com/events/frost-fest/ . Photos from 2015’s Frost Fest by Anthony Meade.

SIDETRACK Sunday Funday Presidents’ Day Onesie Day, Sun., February 19. Photos by Jed Dulanas Academy Awards, Sun., Feb. 26 Drink in the glitz and glamour of the xxth Annual Acad- emy Awards this Sunday. Among the many viewing op- tions around town are: —Sofia Hosts the Oscars at North End, 3733 N. Hal- sted St. Red Capret commentary beginning at 6:30 pm. Night features Oscar trivia with prizes and beer and drink specials. Hosted by the indomitable Sofia Saffire. —Center on Halsted’s A Night With Oscar party, 3656 N. Halsted St. Enjoy the Academy Awards presentation in a fun and festive atmosphere that includes cocktail service, reserved seating, buffet dinner, silent auction and a raffle drawing. Last year, this event was attended by over 300 participants and raised more than $80,000 to support the many programs and services of Center on Halsted. Tickets available at community.centeronhalsted.org .

tions correctly). Jose Cuervo spokesperson Dustin News items Miller was the special guest. —Coinciding with the end of Chicago’s Res- However, the evening was also about Jose Cu- taurant week, more than 20 Andersonville res- ervo cocktails (including the wonderfully refresh- taurants have signed on for Andersonville’s first the DISH ing V9, which includes blanco, pineapple, giner, official neighborhood restaurant week, continu- Weekly Dining Guide in super greens and lime). ing through Feb. 26. Some of the participants Chef Aldo Ayala made some delicious dishes will include Hamburger Mary’s, Big Jones, Ander- WINDY CITY TIMES (including some that even converted my dining sonville Brewing, Vincent, Appellation/Pastoral, companion). Vientre de puerco featured herb- Lalibela Ethopian and Replay Andersonville. See SAVOR marinatd pork Belly, roasted sweet potato, cin- Andersonville.org. namon, honey, chile guajillo and microgreens. We —Celebrity chef Rick Bayless, known for his Mercadito’s also greatly liked carne y langosta, which com- show Mexico: One Plate at a Time, closed his Chi- bined grilled New York strip and poached lobster. cago restaurants Feb. 16 in solidarity with staff ‘Amor por Favor’ Mercadito has these experiential dinners who wish edto participate in demonstrations monthly, with the upcoming dinner “Feliz Primav- called “A Day Without Immigrants,” CBS Chicago BY ANDREW DAVIS Grilled New York strip and poached lobster era” on Monday, March 20, 6-9 p.m. Chef Patricio noted. “For three decades, we’ve been a place Sandoval will prepare dinner, and the five-course that has welcomed, respected and promoted our As most of you are aware, millions of people cel- at Mercadito. menu will be paired with Fidencio mezcal. Tickets immigrant staff, friends and restaurant family,” ebrated their love for each other last week during Photo by Andrew Davis are $75; visit https://www.mercaditorestaurants. Bayless said on his website. Bayless closed Fron- Valentine’s Day (which some might say is over- com/experiential-dinners/. tera Grill, Topolobampo, Xoco and Fonda Fron- commercialized). free bottles of Jose Cuervo tequila. Note: Restaurant profiles/events are based tera. In keeping with that special day, Mercadito Mercadito mixologist Paul Tanguay provided a on invitations arranged from restaurants and/or (108 W. Kinzie St.; MercaditoRestaurants.com), bit of information about tequila, including its firms. on Feb. 13, hosted “Amor por Favor”—an event origins, and quizzed attendees (providing a few that mixed education, food, cocktails and a few free bottles to people who answered his ques- WINDY CITY TIMES Feb. 22, 2017 21 Billy MastersMasters

“Every mother I knew went to work pregnant. Black mothers had a baby in the break room and went back to work.”—DL Hughley on Beyonce’s Grammy performance. I must agree that’s a lot of fuss over someone leaning back in a chair! Did you have a happy Valentine’s Day? Colton Haynes did. And he went public with news that he’s got a boyfriend. PHEW—and we were all so worried about him! Because I know you’re interested, Colton’s beau is Jeff Leatham—and if you’re anything like me, what you read was “Jeff Leatherman!” Can’t you just see Colton lying in a sling with a ball gag in his mouth? Leatham is a florist. His bio (you didn’t expect Haynes to be dating someone without a bio, did you?) says, “Jeff has been creating a sensation with his floral designs and installations since he first began working with flowers at the Four Seasons Hotel in Beverly Hills.” Now I’m thinking Jeff is the one with the ball gag! Something that truly was groundbreaking when it first hit the stage in 1982 was Harvey Fier- stein’s Torch Song Trilogy. The show is poised to return off-Broadway next season in a 35th- anniversary production starring Michael Urie. But it won’t be the same ol’ show. Fierstein has given director Moises Kaufman “a newly edited text that reconceived the way I want the story told.” The plan is to now call the play Torch Song. Perhaps Arnold will now say, “No wire hangers, EVER!” Billy enjoyed a recent event with Matthew Plans for a reboot of the ‘80s sudser Dynasty Morrison (above) and Seth Rudetsky. are progressing. The CW green-lit filming a pi- Photo by Brian Bowen-Smith lot that, at this point, does not include any of the original cast. The story remains the same: a had no interest in spending eternity in Westches- secretary named Cristal (note the spelling) mar- ter County. After years of negotiations, Judy was ries her wealthy boss, Blake, and clashes with his moved from Crypt 31, Unit 9 at Ferncliff to what bratty daughter, Fallon. To stress diversity, which is now being called the Judy Garland Pavilion is de rigueur these days, Cristal is a fiesty Latina, at the Hollywood Forever Cemetery. This cannot and Jeff Colby (from a rival family) is African- be good news for one big fan from California. A “Who the hell is Danny Wood?,” he’s a member American. few years ago, he made a pilgrimage to Garland’s of NKOTB—otherwise known to those of us over I just spent a wonderful evening with Matthew grave and found out that an adjacent plot was 40 as New Kids on the Block. Last week, a video Morrison and Seth Rudetsky in Fort Lauderdale. available. He paid $15,500 so he could be buried of him sitting back in a chair and masturbating It took place at the venerable Parker Playhouse, by his idol. Perhaps he can get a spot near the while chatting online with someone surfaced. which, on that night, celebrated its 50th anni- Pavilion! Why well-known people do this is a mystery to versary—and I bet many of the people in the Speaking of Garland, there’s a new book coming moi—I would never be so foolhardy. Once the audience were there on opening night! The eve- out that contains explosive details about her life. video leaked, Danny got his people to have it ning, under the aegis of impresario Mark Cortale, Third husband Sid Luft had not finished his mem- squelched by threatening to sue. But I laugh in was quite fabulous. I have enormous fondness for oirs when he died in 2005. Although their mar- the face of such threats. I laughed at Colin Far- Matt, having known him since Hairspray—he was riage ended in divorce in 1965, Sid is described rell, so I’m certainly laughing at Danny Wood— and is the ONLY Link Larkin in my book. With his as “chief conservator of the Garland legacy until and that’s a lot of wood to laugh at, as you’ll see stunning looks, smooth moves and glorious vo- his death.” The manuscript, Judy and I: My Life on BillyMasters.com. cals, he’s an old-fashioned, all-around entertain- with Judy Garland, has been completed and will When Danny is hangin’ tough (to say nothing er who held the capacity audience in the palm be released March 1. In it, Sid discusses Judy be- of simply hung), it’s definitely time to end yet of his hand. As usual, Rudetsky was an incompa- ing molested by Munchkins, her drug and alcohol another column. I’m celebrating President’s Day rable host and kept the show moving effortlessly abuse, her numerous suicide attempts and other down in Florida. While people are praying at Mar- and expertly. The series continues April 1 with juicy tidbits. a-Lago, people around me are on their knees for the amazing Andrea Martin. Grab your tix now at In what continues an unprecedented string of a different reason. You can get in on the fun at- ParkerPlayhouse.com. weekly nude celebrity videos, this week’s “Ask BillyMasters.com—the site that answers all your When Judy Garland died in 1969, she was Billy” question comes from Stan in Los Angeles: prayers. If you have a question for me, send it buried in Ferncliff Mausoleum in Hartsdale, New “Do you have Danny Wood’s video? I’ve seen along to [email protected] and I promise to York. That decision was made by her then-hus- some of the stills, but the clip has been deleted get back to you before we get a video of Colton’s band Mickey Deans. However, all of the Garland- from everywhere I’ve checked.” rosebud! Until next time, remember: One man’s Minnelli-Luft kids live in Southern California and Because I know some of you are wondering, filth is another man’s bible. 22 Feb. 22, 2017 WINDY CITY TIMES Friday, Feb. 24 4707 N. Broadway, Chicago Tickets: ect, 3415 W North Ave. Suite D, Mel- Pride Action Tank’s 2nd Annual Sleep-In http://www.cgmc.org/ rose Park http://www.facebook.com/ COMMUNITY on Youth Homelessness Youth home- events/605938539600253/ lessness is epidemic. Over 22,000 teens Saturday, Feb. 25 CALENDAR face housing instability in Chicago - up Northalsted Business Alliance Frost Monday, Feb. 27 to 40% of whom identify as LGBTQ. With Fest Craft Beer Festival Huge heated Jeannie Tanner, My Words and Music brutal funding cuts looming for shelters tent, beer, music, and featuring over 40 Twelve vocalists, one night, to debut a Wed. Feb. 22 and agencies, it’s time for Chicago to craft beers, two tasting sessions. $10- new album of original, distinctly Ameri- Art AIDS America Chicago Panel - Love stop closing our eyes. All-night charity $35; 1:00pm - 9:00pm 800 W Wave- can music written by singer-songwriter, Positive Women: HIV & Women Ex- event to raise awareness and money to land Ave., Chicago http://northalsted. composer and trumpeter Tanner. Kath- amination of the causes and effects help nonprofits support Chicago’s most com Tickets: https://www.eventbrite. erine Hughes String Quartet 7:30pm the impact of HIV/AIDS has on women. vulnerable. 6:00pm - 7:00am Second com/e/frost-fest-craft-beer-festival- City Winery Chicago 1200 W Randolph Panelists: Lesherri James (Affinity Com- Presbyterian Church 1936 S. Michigan tickets-29615693336?aff=es2#tickets St Chicago Tickets: http://www.city- munity Services), Jackie Boyd (The Care Ave., Chicago http://sleepinchicago. Fifty Shades of Shakespeare Orgy of hi- winery.com/ Plan), Teyanna Veasy (Broadway Youth org/ larious, powerful, and revealing explo- Center), Marissa Miller (Howard Brown Intergenerational Panel Discussion rations of gender roles, sexuality, kink, Tuesday, Feb. 28 Health), Mary Miller (Chicago Women’s on Activism in Chicago Town Hall, an and relationships, all told through the The Conversation: Civil Disobedience AIDS Project) and will be moderated good tanners inter-generational panel discussion of bard’s sexiest scenes. $15. Through Feb. Each month, W&CF brings together a by Planned Parenthood of Illinois’ Di- Monday, Feb. 27 40 years of social justice activism. Mod- 27, 2017 8:00pm Mary’s Attic 5400 group of writers, artists, and politicians rector of Clinical Education and Initia- erator Imani Rupert-Gordon, Executive N Clark Chicago Tickets: http://www. together to talk about an issue of po- tives, Brenda Wolfe. Program 6:30pm Jeannie Tanner will host Director of Affinity, will challenge par- rediscovertheatre.com/fifty-shades-of- litical, social, or cultural importance. 6:00pm - 8:00pm Alphawood Gallery, “My Words and Music” ticipants to activate their activism with shakespeare These are not readings, but conversa- 2401 N. Halsted St., Chicago http:// at City Winery. an exercise focusing on current issues tions that include the audience. This identified by the audience. 6:00pm - www.artaidsamericachicago.org/event/ Image from Tanner Sunday, Feb. 26 month The Conversation’s theme is Civil art-aids-america-chicago-panel-women- 9:00pm Affinity Community Services, Academy Awards Viewing Party: A Night Disobedience. This edition will feature hiv-panel/ 2850 S. Wabash Ave. #108 http://www. with Oscar Benefits Center on Halsted. representatives from the ACLU, the la- LGBTQ Impact - Movers & Shakers meet- affinity95.org 6:00 pm live red carpet arrival and auc- bor movement, and the action-oriented ing Grass roots meeting of the LGBTQ Chicago Gay Men’s Chorus Lipstick & tion. 7:30pm Center on Halsted, 3656 group Lifted Voices. 7:30pm Women community, friends and allies. Discus- Thursday, Feb. 23 Lyrics Singing Drag Show returns with N Halsted St. Tickets: https://commu- & Children First Bookstore 5233 N Clark sion and planning to stand up for our HIV testing and sexual health resources the DragTones, a vivacious, no-lip- nity.centeronhalsted.org/ANWO St Chicago http://www.womenandchil- families, our friends, our neighbors, and Center on Halsted provides free confi- syncing drag extravaganza delvinginto LGBTQ Latinx Potluck Resistance drenfirst.com/event/conversation-civil- ourselves, register voters, get people to dential services here Thursdays 3:00pm the world of girl group stardom, with Strategies Grassroots Organizing for disobedience the polls, respond to basic rights being - 7:00pm Walgreen’s Pharmacy, 151 N. performers emulating such groups as Civic Engagement. Vives Q Lab part- attacked in D.C. and to anti-gay bills in State St. http://www.centeronhalsted. the Spice Girls, Andrew Sisters, and En ners with West Suburban Action Proj- the Illinois General Assembly. #RESIST org/the-nxt-lvl/ Vogue. Full cash bar. Another show Feb. ect, a community-based social justice 7:00pm - 8:30pm Mary’s Attic 5400 25. No drink minimum. 21+ First show organization. RSVP online 2:00pm N Clark 8pm. 10:00pm Uptown Underground - 5:00pm West Suburban Action Proj-

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