Windy City Times

Corn Productions presents Happy Endings: A Drinking Game Performance

2012-02-04T18:16:05-00:00

Opens at 11 p.m. Friday, Feb. 17 and runs Fridays and Saturdays at 11 p.m. through March 3.

Nathan Lane and Brian Dennehy in Goodman's Iceman Cometh

2012-02-04T17:36:07-00:00

Artistic Director Robert Falls announces the cast for his major revival of Eugene O'Neill's The Iceman Cometh at Goodman Theatre running April 21-June 10, 2012 in the Goodman's Albert Theatre.

Immigration Integration Summit here Feb. 4, LGBT community represented by elected officials

2012-02-04T17:30:16-00:00

Governor Pat Quinn, Congressmen Luis Gutierrez and Jan Schakowsky, Senator Dick Durbin, County Board President Toni Preckwinkle, and Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan to attend Immigration Integration Summit on Saturday

Wine tasting at KAFKA with Judge Celia Louise Gamrath

2012-02-04T15:57:28-00:00

On Thursday, Feb. 9th from 6 to 7:30 p.m, join Judge Celia Louise Gamrath and Lakeview friends for a wine tasting at KAFKA Wine Co., 3325 N. Halsted. Judge Gamrath is one of the first judges to perform and dissolve civil unions and is a strong ally to the LGBT community. Judge Gamrath is seeking election to the 8th Subcircuit, Chiola vacancy, the same she currently holds.

Time Stands Still

Mary Shen Barnidge — 2012-02-04T15:31:21-00:00

Playwright: Donald Margulies. At: Steppenwolf Theatre, 1650 N. Halsted St. Phone: 312-335-1650 or www.steppenwolf.org; $20-78. Runs through: May 13

New HUD rule called 'historic'

Lisa Keen, Keen News Service — 2012-02-04T15:19:38-00:00

In a speech before a national LGBT conference Jan. 28, U.S. Housing and Urban Development HUD Secretary Shaun Donovan said President Obama views the fight for LGBT equality "not as an issue, but as a priority" and that the president and administration "believe the LGBT community deserves a place at the table."

Military contractor to add LGBT workplace protections, Freedom to Work declares victory

2012-02-04T14:15:44-00:00

Based on this Victory, LGBT Advocates Re-New Call for President Obama to do More to Combat Anti-LGBT Workplace Discrimination By Signing an Executive Order That Has Been Approved by Two Cabinet Agencies and Now Sits in the White House Awaiting the President's Signature.

Penney's won't be firing Ellen despite protesters

2012-02-03T18:32:31-00:00

New York, NY, February 3, 2012- GLAAD, the nation's lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender LGBT media advocacy and anti-defamation organization, today applauded J.C. Penney's decision keep Ellen DeGeneres as their national spokesperson after OneMillionMoms.com - a project of the American Family Association - which is designated as a hate group by the Southern Poverty Law Center SPLC - demanded that J.C. Penney fire Ellen DeGeneres because she is gay.

Dennis LoBue

2012-02-03T03:20:41-00:00

Dennis LoBue died Feb. 1 at the age of 70. He was born in Chicago Heights, Ill., Aug. 31, 1941.

Athlete Eleonora 'Elo' Sears, a lesbian, profiled in new book

Ross Forman, Windy City Times — 2012-02-02T18:46:52-00:00

Eleonora "Eleo" Sears was ahead of her time, way ahead.

HRC Urges Minn. election board to investigate anti-gay group

2012-02-02T18:43:26-00:00

WASHINGTON Feb. 1, 2012 — The Human Rights Campaign released an analysis of campaign disclosure reports - made public today in Minnesota - that reveal the National Organization for Marriage has launched an unprecedented effort to avoid disclosing individual donors as required by law. Such secrecy once again reveals NOM is not a grassroots organization but serves the interest of a handful of wealthy anti-gay donors. HRC urges the Minnesota Campaign Finance and Disclosure Board to investigate NOM's financial activity around the Minnesota ballot measure.

HIV-positive man denied Atlanta police job wins day in court

2012-02-02T18:41:50-00:00

Atlanta, Feb. 1, 2012 - Today, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eleventh Circuit reversed a lower court ruling and remanded the case of Lambda Legal client, Richard Roe, back to district court. Roe applied to be a police officer with the Atlanta Police Department APD, but was denied employment because of his HIV status.

MTV and Logo 'It Gets Better' special Feb. 21 with Dan Savage

2012-02-02T18:40:31-00:00

NEW YORK, N.Y. February 1, 2012 — MTV and Logo, two Viacom networks, jointly announced today that Dan Savage, syndicated columnist, author, co-creator of the It Gets Better Project, and star of MTV's upcoming series "Savage U," will anchor a 60-minute "It Gets Better" special, which will spotlight the emotional and societal struggles many LGBT youth face. "It Gets Better" will air on both MTV and Logo on Tuesday, Feb. 21 at 11 p.m. ET/PT.

Yahoo! removes violent anti-gay comments from Adam Lambert interview

2012-02-02T18:36:01-00:00

New York, NY, February 2, 2012 - GLAAD, the nation's lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender LGBT media advocacy and anti-defamation organization, today announced that Yahoo! has removed violent, anti-gay comments posted to the site's Y! Music 'Reality Rocks' blog and will continue work to address anti-LGBT comments on its platforms.

9th Circuit: videotapes will remain under seal

Lisa Keen, Keen News Service — 2012-02-02T18:34:39-00:00

Most gay legal activists issued a subtle yawn in reaction to the 22-page decision Feb. 2 by a federal appeals panel to keep the Proposition 8 trial videotapes under seal.

GayCo show: Are you there, Judy? It's me, Cancer.

2012-02-02T17:51:33-00:00

Chicago, IL — Does your life really change forever once you have had Cancer? Is Global Warming a symptom of Chemotherapy? Do hospital socks have to be so uncomfortable? Judy Fabjance presents an evening of Comedy, Cries and Choreography as she takes you on her journey through Breast Cancer. Learn about the one who truly wasn't there for her and why she hates all holidays except one. And why cancer all she can think about is cancer so come cancer see this cancer show.

Woke Up Black Chicago screening in Chicago Feb. 27

2012-02-02T17:29:45-00:00

Filmmaker and activist Mary Morten's documentary Woke Up Black will screen at Loyola University Chicago's Water Tower Campus on Monday, Feb. 27, 2012, at 3 p.m.

Senate committee backs LGBT-inclusive anti-violence bill

2012-02-02T17:27:59-00:00

Washington — The Human Rights Campaign praised the Senate Judiciary Committee's Feb. 2 approval of the LGBT-inclusive reauthorization of the Violence Against Women Act VAWA. The reauthorization bill would make grants available for strengthening and enlarging programs to provide outreach and services to LGBT victims of domestic violence. In addition, the bill would prohibit grantees of VAWA funds from discriminating against survivors because of their sexual orientation or gender identity.

Equality Illinois gala Feb. 11

2012-02-02T16:49:23-00:00

The annual Equality Illinois Justice for All gala is Sat., Feb. 11, with the theme Celebrating Every Family. It is at the Chicago Hilton, 720 S. Michigan Ave.

Art meets rights in event marking Bayard Rustin's legacy

2012-02-02T16:43:54-00:00

Washington, DC —Last night a broad civil rights coalition and a poetry festival collaborated on a celebration of the life and legacy of Bayard Rustin. The product of this partnership was "Voices Out Loud," an evening of spoken word, film, speeches, and music in celebration of civil rights activist and pioneer Bayard Rustin, whose 100th birthday is next month. The event, sponsored by The Leadership Conference Education Fund and Split This Rock Poetry Festival, also brought attention to increasing efforts in states across the country to restrict access to the vote.

Chicago launches 2012 cultural plan initiative

2012-02-02T16:32:15-00:00

The Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events DCASE is asking residents, cultural organizations and community groups for their input in developing the 2012 Chicago Cultural Plan. The plan will deliver a set of recommendations to support the arts and artists throughout the city, as well as enhance economic growth and Chicago's reputation as a global cultural destination.

Coalition launched to repeal 'Defense of Marriage Act'

2012-02-02T16:30:39-00:00

WASHINGTON — A robust coalition made up of civil rights, labor, progressive, faith, student, health, legal, women's, and LGBT organizations today announced support of the Respect for Marriage Act — the bill to repeal the discriminatory so-called Defense of Marriage Act DOMA that withholds federal protections and respect for legally married gay and lesbian couples. The Respect for Marriage Act H.R.1116 and S.598 enjoys broad support with a majority of Americans and has a record number of Congressional cosponsors with 136 in the House and 32 in the Senate.

Sky basketball launches tribute to Title IX

Ross Forman — 2012-02-02T15:36:16-00:00

The Chicago Sky women's pro basketball association team launched a season-long, multi-level initiative to celebrate the 40th anniversary of Title IX and how its legislations have impacted women today.

Wash. senate approves bill legalizing same-sex marriage

2012-02-02T04:09:01-00:00

OLYMPIA — Washington United for Marriage, a broad statewide coalition of organizations, congregations, unions and business associations that will work to obtain civil marriage for lesbian and gay couples in Washington State in 2012, today cheered the Washington State Senate's vote in favor of legalizing same-sex marriage legislation in Washington State. The measure passed by a bipartisan vote of 28-21, with 23 Democrats and four Republicans joining together to advance the bill.

Daily news posts on www.WindyCityTimes.com also in the Feb. 1, 2012 print issue of Windy City Times

2012-02-02T00:03:01-00:00

2012-01-30

The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn Part I out on DVD Feb. 11

2012-02-01T23:01:42-00:00

Directed by Academy Award® winner Bill Condon, THE TWILIGHT SAGA: BREAKING DAWN — PART 1 reveals the mysteries of this romantic epic that has entranced millions. In The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn - Part 1, Bella Kristen Stewart and Edward Robert Pattinson, plus those they love, must deal with the chain of consequences brought on by a marriage, honeymoon, and the tumultuous birth of a child… which brings an unforeseen and shocking development for Jacob Black Taylor Lautner.

Avoiding a will contest: The ironclad will

Roger McCaffrey — 2012-02-01T22:45:53-00:00

January 25, 2012

Mostly LGBT cycling club to mark 20 years

Ross Forman, Windy City Times — 2012-02-01T22:42:39-00:00

The Windy City Cycling Club WCCC celebrates its 20th anniversary in March, with recreational, road and off-road bike rides for LGBT members.

Weir returns to competitive skating

2012-02-01T22:41:10-00:00

Out figure skater Johnny Weir, 27, has announced his return to competitive skating—with his goal being the 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi, Russia, according to Outsports.com.

'Stars on Ice' at Rosemont March 11

2012-02-01T22:40:49-00:00

The figure-skating tour "Stars on Ice" will visit Rosemont, Ill., Sunday, March 11, 2012, for a 5 p.m. performance at Allstate Arena.

SkiBudz going to Midwest Gay Ski Weekend Feb. 3-5

2012-02-01T22:40:27-00:00

SkiBudz, Chicago's gay ski and snowboard club, will travel to the 2012 Granite Peak/Midwest Gay Ski Weekend Feb. 3-5 in Wausau, Wis.

Billy Masters

Billy Masters — 2012-02-01T22:38:33-00:00

"For me, it is a choice. I understand that for many people it's not, but for me, it's a choice, and you don't get to define my gayness for me."—Cynthia Nixon explains that she's been attracted to both men and women. I'm not exactly sure where her "betrothed" fits in.

CIVIL UNION, Carr/Bachhuber

2012-02-01T22:27:23-00:00

Michael J. Carr, Jr. and Fredrick R. Bachhuber were united January 21, 2012, in a civil-union ceremony performed by William Healy at The Crystal Garden on Navy Pier in Chicago, Ill. This was the first civil-union performed at the Crystal Garden.

Business ethics and same-sex marriage

Michelle Thomas — 2012-02-01T22:20:40-00:00

When we think of business ethics, we think of corporations and financial institutions. We perceive them as hopefully having established good business ethics, as seen by their wholesome marketing campaigns backed by mandatory regulations. We search for corporate awards to back good corporate values and equate said values to the potential of monetary gain for stakeholders. As contented consumers, we encourage corporate and financial growth by purchasing products, services and stock options.

Watch312.com launches

2012-02-01T21:55:41-00:00

Watch312.com launched with a party at The James Hotel Jan. 26. The website provides an online resource for parties, nightlife and restaurants, among other subjects.

Graffiti6 returns to Chicago

2012-02-01T21:53:43-00:00

London group Graffiti6 landed at the Park West to open for Augustana, a rock band sounding like a mix of U2 and Bruce Springsteen. Graffiti6 could have easily been the headliner with the vocal range from the lead singer and backing musicians stronger than their recent appearance at Schubas. This star duo is quickly rising and the reaction from the audience was obvious that people were witnessing something special.

Antronio's opens in Berwyn

Jerry Nunn, Windy City Times — 2012-02-01T21:47:25-00:00

Jose Antonio Casco, former owner of Chesterfield's for more than 10 years on the South Side, opened his new bar at a Mexican restaurant over the weekend at 6319 W. Roosevelt Rd., Berwyn. The new venue is entitled Antronio's—after the Mexican slang "antro," meaning "hip bar," and playing on his name. The space has tons of potential, containing two large spaces for dancing, videos, drag shows and billiard-playing. Casco worked for months to install a new sprinkler system and new insulation to hold down the noise that neighbors complained about before at the location.

SLDN on lawsuit filed by Southern Poverty Law Center

2012-02-01T19:11:57-00:00

Washington, D.C. Army Veteran and Servicemembers Legal Defense Network SLDN Executive Director Aubrey Sarvis today released a statement regarding the filing of a new lawsuit Cooper-Harris v. U.S., that seeks equal recognition, support, and benefits for a disabled veteran and her same-gender spouse.

Joyce Awards info session for artists of color and nonprofits Feb. 2

2012-02-01T18:33:26-00:00

WHO: Angelique Power, The Joyce Foundation's New Senior Program officer for Culture will conduct an information session for artists of color and non-profit organizations interested in applying for a 2013 Joyce Award.

'The Wall' burlesque tribute opens Feb. 9

2012-02-01T18:26:22-00:00

Hot & Heavy Burlesque will present, for its third year, the Burlesque Tribute To Pink Floyd's The Wall.

'God vs. Gay?' book tour at center Feb. 16

2012-02-01T18:25:56-00:00

Writer Jay Michaelson will discuss his book, God vs. Gay?: The Religious Case for Equality, Feb. 16 at the Center on Halsted, 3656 N. Halsted St., at 7 p.m.

Backdrop

Sally Parsons — 2012-02-01T18:24:54-00:00

by Gayle E. Pitman, Ph.D. $16.95; Active Voice Press; 278 pages

Gayle Pitman: Sexual orientation research under the microscope

Sally Parsons — 2012-02-01T18:19:59-00:00

Gayle Pitman, author of Backdrop, is a clinical psychologist and professor of psychology at Sacramento City College, where she teaches a course on the Psychology of Sexual Orientation. She lives in Northern California with her partner Amy and daughter Rowan. Dr. Pitman responded recently to our questions surrounding the topic of her book.

Coming out on 'Top': Out chef Dale Levitski on his new Boystown spot

Tony Peregrin — 2012-02-01T18:18:00-00:00

A French bistro named frog n snail belongs in Boystown; after all, boys are made of frogs and snails and puppy dog tails—at least according to the beloved nursery rhyme. The new venture by chef Dale Levitski —located across the street from the Top Chef alum's apartment in the space formerly occupied by Sura—will offer casual bistro food, sweet and savory crepes, and a La Colombe coffee bar.

Quay red-carpet party to benefit JDRF

2012-02-01T17:56:09-00:00

Quay Restaurant & Bar, 465 E. Illinois St., and the JDRF Illinois Young Leadership Committee will host a red-carpet party Sunday, Feb. 26, at 6 p.m.

Alvin Ailey in Chicago April 11-15

2012-02-01T17:55:51-00:00

Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater will perform at the Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University April 11-15.

Paradise's 'Bell Book and Candle' Feb. 10-26

2012-02-01T17:55:16-00:00

Paradise Playhouse will run Bell Book and Candle—which originally inspired the '60s TV comedy Bewitched—Feb. 10-26 at Open Door Theatre's brand-new residence at 902 S. Ridgeland, Oak Park.

Steppenwolf to honor Julianna Margulies

2012-02-01T17:54:42-00:00

Emmy, Golden Globe and Screen Actors Guild Award® winner Julianna Margulies—known for her roles on the TV shows ER and The Good Wife—will be the guest of honor at the third annual Steppenwolf Salutes "Women in the Arts" fundraising luncheon Monday, March 12, at 12 p.m. at The Chicago Cultural Center, 77 E. Randolph St.

'Laramie Project' opens at Redtwist March 4

2012-02-01T17:54:03-00:00

The Chicago premiere production of The Laramie Project: Ten Years Later—directed by Jeff Award winner Greg Kolack—will open at Redtwist Theatre, 1044 W. Bryn Mawr Ave., will run March 4-April 7, at 3 p.m.

The Feast: an intimate Tempest; The Hunchback, Variations Opera

Jonathan Abarbanel, Windy City Times — 2012-02-01T17:52:51-00:00

The Feast: an intimate Tempest

CRITICS' PICKS

2012-02-01T17:51:39-00:00

Blizzard '67, Chicago Dramatists, through Feb. 12. A battered Ford in a snowstorm is like a bunker under enemy fire to the four car-pooling suburbanites, each facing his own personal crisis, in Jon Steinhagen's microcosmic portrait of the worst meteorological disaster in Chicago memory. MSB

Spotlight: Long Gone Lonesome

2012-02-01T17:50:08-00:00

Last seen in Chicago at the Broadway Armory in 2011 with its award-winning drama Black Watch, The National Theatre of Scotland continues its practice of presenting theater in unconventional spaces when its production of Duncan McLean's Long Gone Lonesome featuring the Lone Star Swing Band plays The Hideout for a brief run. Long Gone Lonesome is a musical celebration of Thomas Fraser, a Scottish fisherman who left behind a treasure trove of private country and blues recordings. Long Gone Lonesome plays at 7:30 p.m. Feb. 2 and 3, then at 5 and 9 p.m. Feb. 4 at The Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia Ave. Tickets are $25-$35; call 312-595-5600 or visit http://www.ChicagoShakes.com. Photo of McLean in Long Gone Lonesome by Rebecca Marr

Black Pearl Sings!

Scott C. Morgan, Windy City Times — 2012-02-01T17:49:48-00:00

Playwright: Frank Higgins. At: Northlight Theatre, 9501 Skokie Blvd., Skokie. Phone: 847-673-6300; $25-$60. Web: http://www.northlight.org. Runs through: Feb. 19

Race

Mary Shen Barnidge — 2012-02-01T17:46:36-00:00

Playwright: David Mamet. At: Goodman Theatre, 170 N. Dearborn St. Phone: 312-443-3800 or www.goodmantheatre.org; $25-$94. Runs through: Feb. 19

Talking with Victory Gardens' Chay Yew

Scott C. Morgan, Windy City Times — 2012-02-01T17:45:17-00:00
Typically when new artistic directors of theater organizations take over, they're often saddled with a planned-out season created by their predecessor. However, Chay Yew, the Singapore-born and out new artistic director of Chicago's Tony Award-winning Victory Gardens Theater, found a way to put his own personal stamp on the season when there was an unexpected opening.

A Gay in the Life: Mar Curran

Ross Forman, Windy City Times — 2012-02-01T17:41:09-00:00
Mar Curran doesn't have much free time these days, so he rarely watches TV and or sleeps for long.

Founder of Rape Victim Advocates dies

2012-02-01T17:38:28-00:00
Dr. Natalie Stephens Turner, the founder of Rape Victim Advocates RVA died of natural causes Jan. 13 in Fort Myers, Fla. She was 91.

Gloria Steinem at Columbia Feb. 7

2012-02-01T17:37:03-00:00
Iconic activist and lecturer Gloria Steinem will be the featured speaker for Columbia College Chicago's Conversations in the Arts at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 7. This season, the featured speakers are innovators who have shaped trends and topics in disciplines taught through Columbia College's School of Liberal Arts and Sciences.

Steans, Cassidy talk LGBT issues, public transportation

Kate Sosin, Windy City Times — 2012-02-01T17:32:46-00:00
State Sen. Heather Steans and state Rep. Kelly Cassidy are preparing to go back into legislative session, and among their priorities are anti-bullying efforts and the passage of same-sex marriage legislation. The two presented their plans at an Edgewater town hall meeting with constituents Jan. 26.

Queer Occupy members protest HRC in NYC for honoring Goldman Sachs

2012-02-01T17:27:03-00:00
York, NY, Feb. 1, 2012 -Queer/LGBTIQA2Z Occupy Wall Street, a caucus of the NYC based Occupy Wall Street movement, will protest a Human Rights Campaign HRC gala honoring Goldman Sachs Feb. 4, 2012 at the Waldorf Astoria.

J. Edgar screenplay available in book form

2012-02-01T17:24:36-00:00
J. EDGAR: The Shooting Script Newmarket Press / It Books; On sale: February 7; Paperback; $19.95 is the official tie-in book to the Warner Bros. Pictures film about the life of legendary FBI founder J. Edgar Hoover, written by Oscar® winner Dustin Lance Black, directed by Oscar® winner Clint Eastwood, and starring Oscar® nominated Leonardo DiCaprio. It includes: the film's complete shooting script; a foreword by producer Brian Grazer; an introduction by producer Robert Lorenz; a conversation with Eastwood and Black; scene notes by Black; a section of color movie stills and behind-the-scenes photos; and full cast and crew credits.

Twenty Days and 20 Ways to Celebrate the Chicago River

2012-02-01T17:22:10-00:00
Chicago River Watershed—Friends of the Chicago River is pleased to announce Chicago River Day 20/20: See What You Can Do, a 20-day celebration of the 20th anniversary of Friends' signature stewardship event, Chicago River Day. To celebrate this critical milestone and the river's improvement, from April 23 through May 12, 2012 Friends will host a series of events on and beyond the banks of the Chicago River culminating in Chicago River Day. Intended to appeal to people of all ages across the watershed, events range from family-friendly fish projects and habitat days to temporary river tattoos, a river-based scavenger hunt, and a contest for four to stay overnight in Friends' historic McCormick Bridgehouse & Chicago River Museum on the Michigan Avenue Bridge. Most events are free and open to the public. For A Night at the Bridgehouse Museum applications, scavenger hunt details, or other event information, visit www.chicagoriverday20-20.org or contact Meshawn Ayala at 312 939-0490, ext. 18. Events will be continually added and updated through the spring.

Gay man alleges discrimination at hotel restaurant

Ross Forman, Windy City Times — 2012-02-01T17:06:44-00:00
Michael Reid is taking a legal stand against anti-gay bullying.

Quotelines

Kate Sosin, Windy City Times — 2012-02-01T17:05:05-00:00
"What's the average lifespan of a homosexual? It's very short. Google it yourself."—Tennessee Sen. Stacey Campfield to Michelangelo Signorile, as posted to Huffington Post, Jan. 26.

Bisexual activist appointed supervisor in San Francisco

David-Elijah Nahmod — 2012-02-01T17:03:28-00:00
San Francisco Mayor Ed Lee has appointed bisexual activist Christina Olague to that city's Board of Supervisors.

Thousands of LGBTs attend Creating Change

Michael K. Lavers — 2012-02-01T17:00:27-00:00
Equality Illinois CEO Bernard Cherkasov was an activist with the Queer Unity Project when he attended his first Creating Change conference in Washington, D.C., in 1996. The LGBT-rights movement was on the defensive against a series of anti-LGBT proposals across the country. Then-President Bill Clinton signed the federal Defense of Marriage Act into law.

More Howard Brown departures and changes

Yasmin Nair, Windy City Times — 2012-02-01T16:58:51-00:00
Howard Brown Health Center HBHC has undergone more employee changes in the last couple of months, including one dismissal, amid continuing reports of a potential buyout by Near North Health Service Corporation NNHMC.

Jason Stuart on gay actors, stand-up act

Joe Franco — 2012-02-01T16:25:08-00:00
Jason Stuart's own web bio begins: "When you think one of the most prolific character actors, who's also an outrageous openly gay stand-up comedian, one name comes to mind … Jason Stuart. Stuart has been making people laugh out loud with his hysterical performances all over the country since coming out in 1993."

Center's Oscar party at Park West Feb. 26

2012-02-01T16:23:39-00:00
Center on Halsted's 2012 "On the Red Carpet" Oscar party will move venues, taking place at the Park West, 322 W. Armitage Ave., on Sunday, Feb. 26, at 6 p.m.

'The Help' dominates SAGs

2012-02-01T16:22:28-00:00
The Southern drama The Help won three awards Jan. 29 at the Screen Actors Guild Awards.

Knight at the Movies: The Innkeepers

Richard Knight, Jr., for Windy City Times — 2012-02-01T16:20:09-00:00
Writer-director Ti West is part of a new generation of filmmakers working in the horror field who have eschewed the gross-out shock of splatter porn and the ramped-up effects and thrill that have become hallmarks of the genre. Instead, these filmmakers have embraced atmosphere, character and stories marked by the slow build of more traditional fare.

AIDS 'Pizza and policy' at AFC

Erica Demarest, Windy City Times — 2012-02-01T16:18:03-00:00
The AIDS Foundation of Chicago AFC hosted Pizza and Policy Jan. 23 at its downtown Chicago office, 200 W. Jackson Blvd.

AIDS 'Life Skills' intervention may reduce HIV risk

2012-02-01T16:17:11-00:00
Young transgender women are at increased risk for HIV infection due to factors related to stigma/marginalization and participation in risky sexual behaviors, according to a study from Children's Memorial Research Center, the research arm of Children's Memorial Hospital.

Terry Angel Mason named Black HIV/AIDS Awareness spokesperson

2012-02-01T16:16:49-00:00
Writer Terry Angel Mason was selected as the National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Spokesperson for 2012. February 7, 2012 will be the 12th annual observance of National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day, a nationwide community mobilization effort to emphasize the HIV/AIDS "State of Emergency" among African-Americans. The theme is "I am my Brother/Sister's Keeper: Fight HIV/AIDS."

AIDS Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day event at Trinity

2012-02-01T16:16:19-00:00
On Feb. 7, the 12th National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day, Gilead Sciences and other experts will participate in a discussion and roundtable at Trinity United Christ of Christ, 400 W. 95th St. in Chicago. The free program is 9 a.m.-2 p.m. and includes food provided by Gilead and VITAS Innovative Hospice Care.

AIDS Brothers OutLive present: Bayard Centennial honoring Black AIDS Day

2012-02-01T16:15:48-00:00
On Thursday, Feb. 9—two days following National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day—Brothers OUTLive, will celebrate the life and legacy of gay civil-rights activist Bayard Rustin at Center on Halsted.

AIDS Getting personal with state Rep. Greg Harris

Andrew Davis, Windy City Times — 2012-02-01T16:13:00-00:00
The accomplishments of State Rep. Greg Harris, D-13th, are numerous. Since being elected to the Illinois General Assembly in 2006, one of the highest-ranking openly gay elected officials to date in Illinois has done everything from addressing the need of comprehensive breast-cancer services to being the chief sponsor of the Religious Freedom Protection and Civil Unions Act.

Forum looks at health issues facing older LGBTs

Carrie Maxwell, Windy City Times — 2012-02-01T16:10:47-00:00
Rush University Hospital hosted a symposium, "Aging with Pride," Jan. 25 to discuss health issues facing older LGBT adults.

Gerber/Hart move poses questions

Kate Sosin, Windy City Times — 2012-02-01T16:08:27-00:00
When a for rent sign appeared in the window of Gerber/Hart Library in late January, community members shared concerns that the library was being forced to move against its best interests.

Out filmmaker directs Meryl Streep

Chris Azzopardi — 2012-02-01T16:04:41-00:00
Nothing could stand in the way of the almighty Meryl Streep—except on this particular afternoon. At a New York City hotel, in front of a room full of journalists from mainstream press, she braced herself for what could be the ultimate career challenge. The mission? Answer a "gay" question.

Glenn Close: on roles in gender-bending 'Albert Nobbs' and 'Damages'

Lawrence Ferber — 2012-02-01T16:00:06-00:00
Glenn Close is doing some last-minute press from her Los Angeles Four Seasons hotel room, just twenty-four hours before the Golden Globes ceremony, for which she's been nominated as Best Actress in a Motion Picture Drama. While she ultimately didn't take home a statuette the next night, Close's performance is a bona fide winner as evidenced by her recent Oscar nomination—and represents "closure and joy" for a passion project 30 years in the making.

LGBTs and public accommodation

Natalie Chin — 2012-02-01T15:50:09-00:00
Q: The other week, a few friends and I were at a restaurant. We attempted to get the attention of the waitstaff but it soon became clear to us that we were purposefully not being served. I've heard that people can still be denied services at restaurants just for being gay. Does that still happen?

Baton owner Jim Flint subject of 'Fireside Chat'

Emmanuel Garcia — 2012-02-01T15:47:53-00:00
Leatherman Douglas O' Keeffe kicked off A Fireside Chat, a series of live interviews at the Hoover Leppen Theatre at the Center on Halsted, Jan. 25.

Out DePaul student honored with resolution

Ross Forman, Windy City Times — 2012-02-01T15:43:09-00:00
Anthony Alfano, the DePaul University senior who is the first openly gay student-body president in the school's history, was honored Jan. 18 at Chicago City Council with a resolution honoring him introduced by 46th Ward Ald. James Cappleman.

Chicago House hosts 'Wrapture' at Willis Tower

2012-02-01T15:28:52-00:00
ChicagoLocal HIV/AIDS agency Chicago House hosted Champagne Wrapture 2012: Clicquot in the Sky Jan. 26 on the skydeck 99th floor of the Willis Tower.

GLSEN 'Think Before You Speak' ads to run during Super Bowl

2012-02-01T14:33:28-00:00
NEW YORK — The Gay, Lesbian & Straight Education Network GLSEN and The Ad Council Feb. 1 announced the award-winning Think Before You Speak public service announcements PSA will appear at Super Bowl XLVI Sunday, Feb. 5. GLSEN will become the first LGBT organization in the country to share its PSA campaign targeting anti-lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender LGBT language among teens with Super Bowl attendees at the Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, IN.

Gov. Christie calls gay lawmaker "numbnuts"; Barney Frank gets engaged

Andrew Davis, Windy City Times. — 2012-02-01T14:07:41-00:00
N.J. Gov. Chris Christie called a gay state legislator numbnuts while trying to explain controversial remarks he recently made, according to an Advocate.com item that cited The Star-Ledger. At a press conference, Christie was attempting to clarify remarks about the civil-rights movement when he called Assemblyman Reed Gusciora numbnuts for comparing him to segregationists. Gusciora released a statement that said, The governor constantly reverts to name-calling when he is unable to address issues on their merits.

IN THE LIFE looks at HIV criminalization: Positive women stigmatized, prosecuted

2012-02-01T14:02:29-00:00
February 1, 2012 — Tonight, public television stations across the country will begin airing Perpetuating Stigma, an episode from the award-winning documentary series IN THE LIFE. This special report investigates the injustices that arise when a person's HIV status becomes a legal challenge, with a focus on how women have been stigmatized and prosecuted under these laws.

GetEQUAL to protest "The Family" outside National Prayer Breakfast

2012-02-01T14:00:08-00:00
Washington, D.C. — On Thursday, Feb. 2, GetEQUAL will protest "The Family" and their agenda of persecuting LGBT people around the world, by demonstrating outside the National Prayer Breakfast. The National Prayer Breakfast is an annual event -- often keynoted by the President and always attended by members of Congress, business leaders, and international heads of state. It is co-organized by certain members of Congress and a secretive, shadowy religious group to which they belong called The Family also known as "The Fellowship" or "The Fellowship Foundation", which pursues a viciously homophobic agenda in the United States and around the world. Members of "The Family" are tied to the Ugandan lawmaker who authored Uganda's "Kill the Gays" bill.

Crossroads Fund's reading looks at Union, LGBTQ organizing

2012-02-01T13:26:32-00:00
From a news release

Joan Rivers vs. Chelsea Handler; Spartacus: Vengeance creator defends sex scenes straight and gay

Andrew Davis, Windy City Times — 2012-02-01T13:05:38-00:00
Joan Rivers and Chelsea Handler are embroiled in a feud. According to the New York Post, Handler, 36, asked Howard Stern, What the f--k do I care about Joan Rivers? Rivers appeared with daughter Melissa on Stern's show the following day, saying, Handler made it on her back, f*cking the president [ of E! ] ... we all know how she got there. She's a drunk, Rivers added, warning Handler, Don't you come after me, you whore.

Restaurants' Valentine's Day offerings; Alpana Singh's new spot

Andrew Davis, Windy City Times — 2012-02-01T13:03:57-00:00
—Carnivale, 702 W. Fulton Market, has a $33 prix fixe menu on Thursdays. Menu items in the three-course meal include baby arugula salad with goat cheese, mandarins, onion, pepitas and muscatel vinaigrette; Spanish seafood stew; and a cinnamon ice-cream sandwich with a chocolate crunch cookie, among other choices. See http://www.CarnivaleChicago.com.

Manilow postpones Feb. 2-4 Chicago dates

2012-02-01T12:59:52-00:00
Following medical orders, singer Barry Manilow is postponing his Feb. 2-4 show dates at the Chicago Theatre.

Key West promotes gay trolley tour

2012-02-01T12:56:10-00:00
Key West Business Guild announces a new time, new location, and new partnership for the Gay Key West Trolley Tour, one of the nation's only gay and lesbian trolley tours. Beginning Saturday, Feb. 4, the tour will begin at 4 p.m. from the HTA Angela Street Depot corner of Angela and Duval and is being co-sponsored by Historic Tours of America.

Romney easily wins Florida

2012-02-01T12:05:38-00:00
Former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney easily won the GOP presidential primary in Florida Jan. 31—but his three opponents are still continuing the race.