08.12 by boiMAGazine & boiMAG.com

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Benefit Season

ISSUE 08.12

GOING GREEN ISSUE SIDETRACK ANNIVERSARY

Chicago House 25th Annual Spring Brunch and Fashion Show Sunday, May 6 at The Harold Washington Library Center. Celebrate 25 years of spring with Chicago House’s annual brunch and fashion show. Co-Chairs Brett Locasio and Tim Weber host a delicious Sunday brunch and a view into the new spring fashions from Mark Shale. Bid on silent auction items under the skylights of the Winter Garden Ballroom atop the Harold Washington Library. For further information, call 773.248.5200 x303. Interfaith House Annual Gala: “Ain’t We Got Fun” Wednesday, May 9, at Germania Place. The annual gala “Ain’t We Got Fun” features LeeAnn Trotter of NBC5 as host of a fabulous evening of food, drinks, and dancing. Funds raised go to support the GLBT supporting work of Interfaith House in its reach to the Chicago homeless. For tickets call 773.533.5013 X254 or go to www.interfaithhouse.org/ interfaith-house-2012-gala.

3700 N. Halsted St. #2S Chicago, IL 60613

773.975.0264

boieditorial@aol.com • boiads@aol.com Publisher Editor

Mike Macharello Rick Karlin

Layout & Design Titanium Graphics

Advertising Freddie Dave DeGraff

freddie@boimagazine.com dave@boimagzine.com

Photographers Oliver Aguilar Steve Starr Eamonn Sexton Cover: Dining Out For Life

Editorial Contributors Harry Taint Eddie Gormè

Gregg Shapiro Ace Magyar

VIEW BOI ONLINE AT www.boimagazine.com

2012 Human First Gala Saturday, May 12, at The Harris Theater for Music and Dance, 205 E. Randolph. The Center on Halsted hosts its annual Human First Gala to recognize individuals, businesses and organizations who have contributed to building and strengthening the GLBT community in Chicago. The 2012 Human First event welcomes emcee Andy Cohen, Bravo’s, Host of “Watch What Happens Live” with a musical performance by k.d. lang & the Siss Boom Bang. For more information visit their website at www.centeronhalsted.org. boi

Easy ways to help the enviroment green center on halsted green exchange cool eco products hot guys in green electric bikes sidetrack q&A SPOTLIGHT: pepe pena in the know, on the go! ask ace bars and clubs directory

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Easy Ways To Help The Environment by Anita Taylor Sorry to disagree with Kermit, but it is easy being green. Small changes can have a big impact on the environment. Most lists of things you can do to “go green” are geared towards homeowners, but what about those of us who don’t have a house and a big family? What difference does it make for us?

don’t need half of them. In addition to creating less waste, the change will lower your monthly drugstore bills, because you won’t be buying all of those unnecessary lotions and creams. Net annual savings: $250.

Make some of your own cleaning supplies. Even Martha Stewart endorses this technique. A bowl of vinegar or simmering lemon rinds can absorb smells just as well as manufactured air Actually, you’d be surprised. By making freshener. Scrubs made out of baking a few small changes in your habits and soda and water make kitchens sparkle environment, you can do a lot to save just like chemical-laden cleaners. the planet and save more than $1,500 a Vinegar is the best cleaner for stainless year. Here’s what you can do to help the steel and costs about $2.50 a gallon. environment and fatten your wallet. Homemade cleaning supplies using natural products put less stress on the Replace as many regular light bulbs environment and reduce packaging as you can with compact fluorescent waste. The Internet contains hundreds bulbs. A compact fluorescent light of do-it-yourself recipes. Net annual bulb (CFL) will save about $30 over its savings: $250. lifetime and pay for itself in about six months. It also uses 75 percent less Use less gas by driving more efficiently. energy and will last about 10 times Lighten up your car by emptying longer than an incandescent bulb, so the trunk of anything heavy, the less you save money two ways. Net annual weight-the more mpg. Drive smoothly savings: $100. without a lot of acceleration and deceleration to let your engine work Unplug cell phone and other electronic more efficiently; staying under 60 miles chargers when not in use. Even when per hour also helps. Also, consider your phone isn’t being charged, your carpooling with neighbors and visit the charger is using electricity. If your mechanic regularly to replace clogged computer is going to go unused for air filters, tune-up the engine, and make more than four hours, shut it down. sure tires are properly inflated. Net Leaving computers on all the time annual savings $250. shortens its lifetime due to heat stress and mechanical wear and sucks up Cook at home, using local ingredients more energy than you’d expect. Net and less meat. Replacing the meat in annual savings $200. at least four meals a week with lowercost proteins such as eggs, beans and Use fewer products. Instead of buying soy reduces the impact of large animal different products for bathing, shaving farming on the environment. Avoid and shampooing see if some of those waste by reinventing leftovers and using products can do double duty. Line up up what’s in the fridge. Cooking at home all the products you use when you is not only less expensive than buying get ready in the morning and look fast food, it also cuts down on packaging at them objectively. Chances are you waste. Savings: $500 and up a year. boi

A Green Home for the Rainbow Community A green home for the rainbow community The Center on Halsted (CoH), is not only the home to the growing strength Chicago’s diverse GLBT community; it is also a visible symbol of GLBT pride. It is also one of the greenest buildings in Chicago. The three-story, complex houses an entertainment venue, a Whole Foods grocery store, a café, office spaces, a technology center, a gymnasium, a theater, a public roof garden, an underground parking structure, as well as a number of other unique gathering spaces designed to enable Chicago’s wide array of GLBT organizations to come together to collaborate, grow and share resources. The unadorned clear glass façade exposes the inner workings of the CoH, proclaiming boldly that our community will is there for the world to see. An architectural nod to “We’re here, we’re queer, get used to it”. And the neighborhood has. The soaring lobby is a favorite gathering spot for all in the neighborhood. Because CoH serves as a meeting place for diverse organizations and communities the architects designed the interior around a central corridor that acts as a main street. The top floor of the three-story building includes a double-height space devoted to theater and other performances, while a similarly scaled volume contains a gymnasium with a basketball court that opens to the public roof garden. CoH is also an award-winning leader in green building technology. In 2008, CoH became one of the first buildings in Chicago to achieve a Leadership 10 boi

in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification. The original terra-cotta and brick façade of a 1924 building was removed before demolition of the building, and then incorporated back into the building’s design. In addition to recycling original building materials, the restored façade preserves the history of the neighborhood landmark. Center on Halsted’s dedication to building and strengthening the community included creating a healthier, greener environment for all. With this in mind, the building was designed not only to be functional and aesthetically pleasing, but also environmentally conscientious. Rainwater is captured and recycled using the natural filtering powers of specific plants and top soil found in the rooftop garden. After filtering the rainwater, it is stored in the basement, chlorinated and reused as non-potable flushing water. The roofing consists of white material – instead of traditional tar – reducing the overall energy consumption of the building and reducing dependence on fossil fuels. Additional green design principles can be found inside the building including recycled carpeting throughout, ‘fly ash’ concrete and salvaged brick. The building maximizes natural lighting and utilizes an automatically adjusting ventilation and lighting system designed to be used only when space is in use, decreasing the consumption of electricity.

Green Exchange Imagine a place where the country’s leading socially and environmentally responsible businesses share ideas, services and customers under one giant green roof. Envision a rich array of products, services and showrooms all available in an iconic, state-of-theart LEED certified building overlooking. Where would you expect to find such an environmentally advanced project? California’s Silicon Valley, perhaps? Try right here in Chicago in Logan Square. In 2011, Green Exchange opened its doors as the country’s largest sustainable business community, offering 272,000 square feet where the public can engage directly with leading green businesses, eco-speakers, events and ideas. The 272,000 square-foot historic landmark, formerly home to Cooper Lamp Factory was rehabbed and is now home to the largest hub of green businesses under one roof anywhere in the country. Green Exchange is committed to shifting the green marketplace from niche to mainstream, making green living easy and accessible for the public, and giving green businesses and innovators the national stage they need to grow exponentially. According to David Baum, co-developer of the exchange, “Years ago we saw there were people starting green businesses, but everyone was operating on their own. We thought if we could aggregate these folks and they could share resources, they could be more successful in a collective environment. We thought they could benefit from certain economies of scale, like shared conference rooms, an event space, a speakers forum and a web site. We’ve created a community of like-minded tenants that can help one another.” 12 boi

Among the tenants in Green Exchange are:

Coyote Logistics is the fastestgrowing privately owned logistics and transportation company in the country. Matching transportation partners with the shipping needs of its customer base, the company specializes in fleet backhaul, which utilizes clients’ trucks to transport loads on return trips reducing the number of trucks transporting half or empty loads, to reduce emissions and overall carbon footprint. GreenChoice Bank is the first “green” community bank in the Midwest, supports sustainable practices within the local economy, its customer base and among its employees. Funds on deposit are invested in local green businesses; GreenChoice Bank is the right choice for individuals who are looking for the opportunity to make a values-based decision about their banking services. Greenhouse Loft is the country’s premier sustainable event venue. From weddings and social gatherings to meetings and corporate events, Greenhouse Loft, from the folks behind West Loop Studio, seeks to redefine what an event venue can be. Institute for Workplace Education is the leading provider of dual-language workforce development services in Illinois. IWE provides training services including needs assessment, training deployment, and grant writing to underwrite the cost of training for all industries. Rainforest Learning Center is an early childhood learning center training tomorrow’s global citizens. With an environmental arts-based curriculum, its non-traditional approach to early

childhood education has received notice and acclaim from some of the city’s most prominent private and public elementary programs. 2 Point Perspective specializes in modern, eco-friendly architecture as well as interior and furniture design services for residential and commercial clients. Founders, Lisa and Ron Elkins are LEED accredited architects with more than a decade of experience.

Purple Asparagus is a non-profit that educates children, families, and the community about eating that’s good for the body and the planet. Nutrition education programs offer practical and engaging materials so children and their families can learn about healthy eating.

Distant Village Packaging is an innovator in custom branded packaging hand made by artisans in remote communities around the world, creating employment opportunities and fair trade for talented artisans. Eco-friendly materials and sustainable practices are essential to the company’s mission. Pivotal Production is a full service event design and production company committed to creating exciting, edgy and innovative celebrations while showing respect for the planet.

NewGrange Development is a building design, construction, and general contracting company with a focus on sustainable developments. LEED construction professionals offer Smithereen is a leader in integrated design, construction, and general and low environmental impact pest contracting services for home and management assessments along with green formulations as natural repellents business. and baits are included in the program. Climate Cycle creates green gateways of solar energy installations in schools, Rishi Tea offers organic and Fair Trade bike clubs, and other green school Certified loose-leaf teas, imported directly from gardens around the world. projects, inspiring students to green our world. Altro uses post-consumer wine bottles in the manufacture of resilient flooring, Resolute Image operates a business productivity and service center offering replacing PVC and phthalates, with a printing and business supply essentials bio-based material flooring and walls to small to medium businesses. for health care, pharmaceutical, and hospitality markets. Green Exchange is committed to shifting the green marketplace from WeFarm America is a social enterprise that is working to convert lawns to food niche to mainstream, making green living easy and accessible for the public, gardens and vacant lots to community gardens and urban farms across the city. and giving green businesses and innovators the national stage they need WeFarm’s work helps fund school and community garden projects in Chicago’s to grow exponentially. under-served neighborhoods. boi 13

Cool Eco Products Gone are the days when you had to choose between well-designed, quality functional products and eco-friendly purchases. While many mainstream manufacturers and retailers are claiming products that are “green” these products are not only certified ecofriendly, they’re cool.

Woodiees Undies

Cotton underwear is environmentally taxing. It takes about 400 gallons of water to make a single cotton undershirt, not to mention the use of pesticides. Woodiees forgoes the cotton and uses eco-friendly Tencel (a natural fiber made from the pulp of Eucalyptus trees) combined with a bit of Spandex to create great fitting boxers, briefs and boxer-briefs. Another benefit of the virtually pesticide-free Tencel material is that it’s easy on your skin, which is ideal for men with sensitive skin, and it’s moisture-wicking for greater comfort. Available at woodiees.com. Lexon Products Walk into store full of gadgets and home goods, and you’re generally hard-pressed to find things like clocks, radios, calculators and lighting made with something other than plastic or unsustainably produced metal. Lexon carries minimalist, modern gadgets and home goods made from bamboo, corn plastic and LED lights. Items such as the Dolmen Radio, Dolmen LED light and 14 boi

Safe Calculator, fit into modern interiors, and are eco-friendly. Check out the whole collection at lexonusacatalog.com.

Vodka 360

McCormick Distilling has really gone to town on its green credentials, by using all the latest methods in distilling as well using as much recycled materials in the production of all their packaging. Currently not available in Chicago, but can be ordered at vodka360.com. PrePeat Printer Going paperless has proven to be a difficult challenge for many companies. Printers are still an integral part of most offices. PrePeat is a new eco printer that uses zero ink or toner, and doesn’t even need fresh paper. With a special type of coated paper, the PrePeat can print on the same sheet repeatedly. The manufacturer claims that the thermal printing head can erase the document and, in the same pass, print a new one on the same sheet without degradation in quality. Available at sanwa-newtec.com Up-Cycled Products TerraCycle “upcycles” and recycles traditionally waste over-runs of packaging materials (including drink pouches, chip bags, tooth brushes and many more) into a large variety of consumer products. These products keep waste out of landfills and contribute to a cleaner world. TerraCycle products are available at a wide range of major retailers, such as Target, as well as online. Among this selection are an Eco Boombox and smaller speakers ranging from $15-$20 as well as totes and bags made with Starburst, Skittles, M&M and Lays chips marketing materials.

Guys In Green EarthFirst is a web site that rates everything eco-friendly from corporations to cleaning products. Therefore, it should come as no surprise that the site named the “Top 25 Hottest Guys in Green”. While all the eye-candy listed is easy on the eyes, we only have room for their top five.

Orlando Bloom isn’t

just another pretty elf (or pirate). He uses his celebrity to promote environmental causes such as Global Cool, Global Green and the Climate Star campaign. He’s also building a home using solar technology, and offsets his carbon emissions from all that traveling he does by donating money toward the planting of trees.

Brad Pitt may fly

around in a private jet more often than we’d like, but his work in environmental activism and programs helps the good outshine the bad. In 2006, Brad worked with Global Green USA on a sustainable design competition in New Orleans. Much of his environmental work centers around the city, which he says can benefit greatly from putting environmentally friendly design in place as the city is rebuilt. Brad’s also founded the Make It Right Project, which is building ecofriendly homes in New Orleans.

Leonardo DiCaprio is undoubtedly the real deal as celebrity environmentalists go. He flies commercial, drives a hybrid car, has a green home with as many ecofriendly features as he could fit in

and vocally speaks out for change in the face of global climate change. Leonardo’s documentary, The 11th Hour, illustrates the dangers facing the planet as well as hope for new technology and ways of thinking that just might save it.

Van Jones is one

of today’s most genuine, hard working, recognized environmental activists. His Ella Baker Center for Human Rights initiated a ‘Green Job Corps’ program in Oakland, California training youth for green collar jobs. Van also founded ‘Green for All’, a group that promotes green jobs policies and environmental justice. All of his programs combine environmental and humanitarian work.

David de Rothschild

founded Adventure Ecology, an organization that shares his expeditions with kids on the web to promote environmental awareness and activism. His latest Adventure Ecology mission took him on a four-month, 8,000-mile voyage from San Francisco to Australia in a 60-foot sailboat made of recycled plastic bottles. The trip helped call attention to pollution in the ocean, from trash to oil spills, and David hopes it will spur people into demanding a change in the way our oceans are treated.

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Electric Bikes By Rick Karlin We all know that biking to work is the responsible thing to do, for the environment and our own fitness. So, every spring I take my bike in for a tune-up and the first nice days I ride the seven miles each way. I don’t know about you, but when I do that I arrive at the office looking as wet as Liza Minnelli at the end of a concert. Let’s not even discuss the smell! Then I discovered the electric bicycle, giving new meaning to the term “don’t sweat it”. With an electric bike you can beat the traffic, say hello to a friend, take a shortcut to class, while you enjoy the cool breezes, take in the scenery, climb up a hill and smell the flowers, all while arriving fresh as a daisy. There are many different types of electric bikes. Most range in price from $800 to $1,000. In addition to ease of use, electric bikes are about as green as you can get, getting about 40 miles to a charge, more if you pedal a little. Last year a record number of more than 500,000 e-bikes were sold in the US alone, a figure that has doubled within the past two years. Another great bonus, no waiting in the lines at the DMV, no license, no city sticker, no insurance (well other than property insurance and it should be covered under whatever policy you have. In Illinois, as in most of the country, electric bikes with a maximum speed of 20 mph are classified the same as traditional bikes, all that is required is the use of a helmet-and c’mon, you’d be stupid not to wear one anyway. There are many different brands and types of bikes available, some look like

a traditional coaster bike; others offer a little more style. After researching a number of options (thank you, Internet!), I opted for the Jetson E-Bike. I have to say the name was a big selling point, followed closely by the design.

The specs though were what helped me make the decision. Jetson E-Bikes come with a rechargeable Lithium Ion battery that allows you to simply remove the battery, take it into your home and recharge it in any standard electric outlet. The top speed is up to 20 mph (probably a bit less for me, I’m a big guy) with a forty-mile range per charge of the 500 watt motor. An LCD digitally enhanced display illuminates current speed, voltage left on battery and blinker indicators. The bike can seat two people. There is a small storage compartment under the seat. Electric bikes combine the classic bike and pedal experience with the option of simply “going electric” when and where you want and need it to power up. They meet a growing consumer desire to find safe, green transportation alternatives. A trend that has steadily increased with the rapid rise of gasoline prices, continually clogged roadways, expensive taxi fares, and crowded subways. boi 17

Sidetrack Anniversary In honor of Sidetrack’s 30th anniversary

we decided to turn the tables and ask the bartenders and other staff a question other than “can I have a cocktail, please?” Name: Jeff Job Title: Bartender Years employed at Sidetrack: 4 Favorite video: Cell Block Tango-”Chicago.” Favorite night/event to work: IML Sunday. Best pick-up line you’ve ever heard: “I’m Latin. I have foreskin. Wanna meet me after work?” Worst pick-up line you’ve ever heard: “I’m Latin. I have foreskin. Wanna meet me after work?” Most memorable Sidetrack moment: Dressing as Spartacus for our 25th anniversary. Celebrity you’ would most like to meet at Sidetrack: Madonna Most popular drink order: Purple Slushie Weirdest drink order: Harvey Wallbanger Name: Brian Job Title: Bartender Years employed at Sidetrack: 11-ish Favorite video: Rhianna “S.O.S.” Favorite night/event to work: Monday, cause it’s my Friday. Best pick-up line you’ve ever heard: Haven’t heard one yet. Worst pick-up line you’ve ever heard: “While you’re down there…” Most memorable Sidetrack moment: When Kristin Chenoweth visited the bar. Celebrity you would most like to meet at Sidetrack: Cyndi Lauper (again!) Most popular drink order: Vodka & soda Weirdest drink order: Gin & O.J. Name: Bradley Job Title: Bartender/manager Years employed at Sidetrack: 10 Favorite night/event to work: Market Days and Pride Weekend Best pick-up line you’ve ever heard: “Are you into hate sex?” Worst pick-up line you’ve ever heard: “My boyfriend wants to fuck you.” 20 boi

Most memorable Sidetrack moment: Meeting and hanging out with Cyndi Lauper. Celebrity you would most like to meet at Sidetrack: Joan Rivers Most popular drink order: The frozens Weirdest drink order: I have a customer who orders a beer and insists I spit in it before he drinks it. Name: Ryan M. Job Title: Barback/ Bartender Years employed at Sidetrack: 2 Favorite video: Ultra Nate “Automatic” Worst pick-up line you’ve ever heard: “While you’re down there…” Weirdest drink order: “Can I get a virgin mojito?” “We don’t have mint.” “Okay, can I get a virgin margarita?” “So you want O.J. and sour mix?” Name: Jason Job Title: Bartender/ Manager Years employed at Sidetrack: 8 Favorite video: Celia Cruz “La Vida es un Carnival” Favorite night/event to work: Show-tune Sunday. Most memorable Sidetrack moment: Winning “Barlesque”. Celebrity you would most like to meet at Sidetrack: Ellen Degeneres Most popular drink order: Ketel One Krush Weirdest drink order: Scotch and half & half, tall Name: Jay Job Title: Doorman/Security Years employed at Sidetrack: 3 Favorite video: Ke$ha “Blow”, because I’ve always believed unicorns bleed rainbows. Favorite night/event to work: IML/Bear weekend

Best pick-up line you’ve ever heard: “Hey Daddy!” (I’m 32) Worst pick-up line you’ve ever heard: “I would eat anything that came out of your body.” Most memorable Sidetrack moment: The doormen dressing up as the girls from The Facts of Life for “Night of 100 Drag Queens”. Celebrity you would most like to meet at Sidetrack: Kathy Griffin Most popular drink order: A tall order of, “Sir I think you’ve had enough to drink this evening.” Name: Craig Job Title: Doorman Years employed at Sidetrack: 2 Favorite video: 30 Seconds to Mars “Hurricane” Favorite night/event to work:”Night of 100 Drag Queens” Best pick-up line you’ve ever heard: “Hi.” Worst pick-up line you’ve ever heard: “I’m drunk.” Most memorable Sidetrack moment: Celebrating my 50th birthday and the staff nearly setting the bar on fire with the candles. Celebrity you would most like to meet at Sidetrack: Ellen Degeneres Most popular drink: Ketel One Krush Weirdest drink order: Draft beer Name: Zach Job Title: Bartender/ Barback Years employed at Sidetrack: 2 ½ Favorite video: Sheena Easton “Morning Train” Favorite night/event to work: IML weekend Best pick-up line you’ve ever heard: I’m of the Grindr generation, do people still use pick up lines? Worst pick-up line you’ve ever heard: “You have sexy elbows.” Celebrity you would most like to meet at Sidetrack: Patrick Sharpe Most popular drink: Vodka & anything Weirdest drink order: “Make me something that tastes like the milk that’s left after you have Cinnamon Toast Crunch.”

The Bar That Ate Halsted Sidetrack celebrates its 30th anniversary this year. That means that many current patrons weren’t even born when the bar opened. When the bar opened in 1982, Michael Jackson had just released “Thriller” but “Bette Davis Eyes” won the Grammy as “Song of the Year” and Jennifer Holliday, who continues to be a show tune favorite at the bar, won her Tony for “Dreamgirls”. Pepe, Arthur, Chuck and the bar’s staff continue to attract and keep loyal customers by making Sidetrack a welcoming environment that is constantly evolving and improving , as its time line illustrates. 1982 Opened on Apr. 22, no name on door, beer cases line the wall, double as seating. 1983 Mondays show tunes begins. The bar’s softball team wins Gay World Series, 1984 First year with a float in the Pride Parade, bar expands into two storefronts, doubling the size, new white tile wall in front, but still no name on door. The décor changes quarterly, among the themes; “under the sea”, “outer space”, “bird houses” and “castle courtyard”. 1985 The first comedy night (a benefit for Open Hand). 1987 First country night, show tunes expands to include Sunday afternoons 1988 The first version of the back bar opens with a garden and roll down doors, show tunes adds a Friday cocktail hour slot, first live “broadcast” of pride parade on screens throughout the bar. 1992 First “Night of 100 Drag Queens” , frozen drinks debut with a frozen margarita. 1994 Expands into another store front, adding the upper level “Cherry” bar, as well as a redesigned main bar. 1999 The “Glass” bar opens and the upstairs deck is closed for renovations. It was also the year of first big Mardi Gras party. 2004 “Upper Deck” bar reopens with an outdoor area upstairs. 2006 Named best gay bar in U.S. by Out Traveler magazine. 2007 The “Cherry” bar is expanded to include the “Lounge”. 2009 The courtyard is redesigned and “Sidebar” opens. boi 21

Chicago Spotlight: Pepe Pena Interviews with leaders in Chicago’s GLBT community by Gregg Shapiro

As a pioneering video artist at Sidetrack, he has created a unique style of show-tune entertainment in a bar environment for thousands of Chicagoans and visitors to enjoy as they grow communally. Before Sidetrack he was a popular Chicago bartender throughout the 1970s at establishments as Shari’s, Ruthie’s, Carol’s Coming Out Pub, Alfie’s, and the Annex. With his business and domestic partner, Arthur Johnston, he has been instrumental in making Sidetrack into a cultural touchstone as well as a source of political and financial support for AIDS work and lesbian and gay rights efforts. When did you come out and what was the experience like for you? Coming out was a long process. I am from a very conservative Cuban family. I was never rejected, but some of my relatives and friends took longer than others. Today I cannot think of one single person who is not fully supportive. I changed them by coming out and they in turn changed me. Please name five of your GLBT heroes and say a few words about why you chose them. Reinaldo Arenas: a brilliant writer and poet who was born in the same year, in the same part of Cuba that I was. His life was both a cry for the natural right to joy and pleasure and a rebellion against the powerful machinery that is the communist system in Cuba. Ellen DeGeneres: because she is funny, smart and likeable - she’s the gay icon I want every non-GLBT person to meet. Danny Sotomayor: I was lucky to know 22 boi

him. He was the definition of courage and dedication. He also gave me a great gift, a loving green wing macaw named George. The Gang of Four: Jon-Henri Damski, Arthur Johnston, Rick Garcia and Laurie Dittmann. I

was fortunate to witness up close how four people changed the Chicago establishment for the better, by obtaining for the gay community the protections and rights that had been previously withheld from us. Lori Cannon: She’s not gay, but I cannot imagine the development of our community without her. She has been called a goddess and I agree. What do you consider to be your most significant contribution to the GLBT community in Chicago and at large? Two things: Sidetrack and show tunes. Sidetrack, because it is a challenging and rewarding experience. I am proud of what so many people through the years helped us accomplish, a fun, safe, nurturing space for everyone. Show tunes because we created it from scratch; because there is nothing like seeing young people singing along with the classics; because it is preserving an important part of our cultural history, and because it is fun. What are your future goals and aspirations? To keep busy and be able to expand on what I do now and to stay excited about the future. Words of wisdom to the next GLBT generation? Remain vigilant. All of our gains could easily be wiped out. Most of all, let’s keep on taking care of each other.

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In The Know, On The Go by Harry Taint

Divaliscious

It’s Spring and the divas are budding all around town. Not only is k.d. lang appearing with her new band The Sis Boom Bang at the Center on Halsted’s “Human First” benefit, but she’s also doing a show at the Genesee Theater in Waukegan on May 19… Rachel Dratch aka Debbie Downer, will be appearing at the Up Comedy Club (ironic!) located on the third floor of Piper’s Alley on Monday, Apr. 30… Kathy Griffin, is still coming to town, she just had to reschedule the date. Her May 17 appearance at the Rialto Square Theatre in Joliet has been rescheduled for Sunday, May 20 at 7 p.m. For more information go to Rialtosquare.com.

Spring Fever

Things to be grateful for: warmer weather, men in shorts, Sidetrack’s “Spring Wine Tasting Party” on Wednesday, May 9 5. The $20 entrance donation benefits EQIL and there’s wine and apps!... Cocktail reopens its patio soon and dining options will be available to go with the bar’s new infused vodkas… Cinco de Mayo parties at Las Mañanitas and Sidetrack, on May 5 of course, and the Vital Nights event at J Bar on Wednesday, May 2. The event’s a benefit for Vital Bridges… And, you can get done up fabulously for any of these events if you stop by Ragstock and check out its holiday selection.

Word on the Street

Smart Bar’s “Queen” party is drawing a large and happening crowd. Perhaps the $3 well drinks have something to do with that... Man’s Country is doing its best to promote safe sex, not only are free condoms available, but now they’re also passing out free flip-flops, so you can be a sexual athlete without athlete’s foot… What are doing next Tuesday, May 1? Well, after you watch “Glee”, head over to the CoH for the Gay & Lesbian

Travel Expo to find out about hot new destinations, travel deals and GLBT friendly hotels. For more info, check out glbttravelexpo.com.

Leather Weather

With IML bringing thousands of guys to town Memorial Day weekend, you might want to sign up for Steamworks’ new black card. Flash it and you get to bypass all the folks waiting to get in… You’ll look great at all the IML events if you stop by the blowout sale at Leather Sport on Saturday, Apr. 28… If you’re a novice to the leather scene stop in at Touché on Saturday, Apr. 28 and sign up for “Leather Eye for the Preppy Guy”. The event transforms one lucky preppy guy into a full-fledged leather stud. The winner receives leather gear and two tickets to IML. Applications available at the bar or SHEL-don, 3922 N. Broadway. The event’s a benefit for Vital Bridges’ Groceryland Pantry.

Stage Business

What’s going on with the ‘80s trend in Chicago’s performing arts community? About Face Theater is staging a revival of “Rent” at the American Theater Company. Chicago Gay Men’s Chorus’ spring concert on Friday, May 11 at the Francis Parker Auditorium is called “That ‘80s Show”. The wacky folks at A Reasonable Facsimile Theatre continues its monthly showcase at Mary’s Attic on May 15 with “TV Reruns” and is doing “Barney Miller”’ and “Saved by the Bell” (among others) both shows were big hits in the ‘80s… Definitively not based in the ‘80s “Alex In Wonderland” plays at Hydrate through May 26. These are the same sick and twisted (I mean that as a compliment) folks who produced “Snow White and the Seven Drag Queens” and “Twinkie and the Beast”… On Monday, April 30, the Hotel Allegro welcomes the cast of “Jersey Boys” for ”… “Dancing in the Street”, a one night only concert and auction to benefit Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS. boi 25

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Ask Ace

Relationship & Sex Advice

Drying Out in Tri-Taylor

I’ve decided to stop drinking. It never interfered with work or anything, but I realized it was getting out of hand. The problem is that my friends keep trying to get me to drink. They’ll get a round of cocktails and bring me a gin and tonic (what I used to drink) or buy a round of shots and include me. How can I get them to honor my decision to stop drinking.

him and you. If you are unwilling to share her (and that’s a perfectly justifiable desire) then you must stop seeing her. No matter how much you enjoy your time with her, if you’re not getting what you want out of the relationship you need to end it. The only way to do that is to make a clean break. No socializing or trying to be just friends. It sounds as if this relationship is an addictive one and, as with any addiction, you must go cold turkey. There’s no halfway in this situation. Be strong.

Dear DOIT,

Stranger in a Strange Land

Congratulations on tackling the problem before it became one. One of the hardest things about choosing not to drink is that so much of our community’s socializing is centered on going to bars. There are a few approaches to dealing with your friends in this regard. First, just keep refusing the drinks. Eventually they will tire of paying for drinks that aren’t consumed. Alternatively, you can tell a little white lie and say that you’re not drinking for “health reasons” or that you’re on medication, sometimes folks are a little more willing to honor that reason for not drinking. Also, if you have a regular bartender, inform him or her ahead of time and ask for juice shots or just tonic and lime. Good luck.

I’ve just gotten out of a long term relationship (14 years). It was an amicable break up-we both knew it was time to move on. I’m fine with the decision, but I’m 42 now, so the last time I went out as a single guy I was in my 20s. I feel so out of place when I go out to the bars and clubs. I’m not interested in starting a relationship, but some of the guys at the clubs don’t even acknowledge me, and when I speak to them they are often not even polite in dismissing me. Has something changed since I last went out as a single man?

Dear SISL,

Yes, you. You have developed the super power all gay men get when they turn 40; invisibility. Hopelessly Devoted Sometimes it does seem as if younger gay I met a woman through work and we men don’t even see men of a certain age. became friends. Her husband’s a great guy Although I’m willing to bet that there are a and I’ve counted them among my closest number of men in the clubs and bars you friends for a long time. About a year ago she frequent that might be just as happy to meet and I started an affair. She’s the woman of someone older. Many men in their 40s are not my dreams, and she told me she was going interested in hanging out in dance-oriented to leave her husband. She told him about clubs, and those that are may be looking for us and he said he has no problem with us younger men. If you are going to the club being involved (and no, he doesn’t want a and have a good time, other than this aspect, three-some). It’s been three years and she continue to do so, and don’t worry about who still hasn’t left him. At first it was because she acknowledges you. As the folks that go to that didn’t want to hurt him, then because she club see you more often, you’ll cease to seem lost her job, then it was that they couldn’t invisible. If you’re not having a good time sell their condo. It’s driving me nuts that otherwise, you might want to rethink where she won’t commit to us. When I tell her she you might find your social peers. There are a needs to make a decision, she tells me that number of clubs and bars which attract a more I’m being selfish. Am I? age-diverse clientele and getting involved in social groups and clubs is also an opportunity Dear HD, to meet people of all ages with similar interests. In a word, “No!” You’ve been waiting three ___________________________________________ years, which is more than a reasonable Ace Magyar has a BA in communications, a MA in sex therapy and a PhD amount of time. But, why should she leave him, in zoology. He is a registered couple’s counselor specializing in the GLBT she’s getting the best of both worlds? She has community. Send your questions to boieditorial@aol.com. boi 29

Chicago Bars and Clubs Boystown / Lakeview

3160 3160 N.Clark G&L, LM,DS Berlin 954 W. Belmont G&L, D, 4 Bobby Love’s 3729 N. Halsted G&L Buck’s Saloon 3439 N. Halsted G Cell Block 3702 N. Halsted G, LF Charlie’s 3726 N. Broadway G, D, W Circuit 2.02 3641 N. Halsted G&L, D, 4 Cocktail 3359 N. Halsted G, GB Elixir Lounge 3452 N. Halsted G, 4 F. O’Mahony’s 3701 N. Broadway G&L, R Hydrate 3458 N. Halsted G, D, DS, 4 Kit Kat 3700 N. Halsted G&L, DS, R Little Jim’s 3501 N. Halsted G, V, 4 Lucky Horseshoe 3169 N. Halsted G, GB Manhandler 1948 N. Halsted G, W, 4 Minibar 3341 N. Halsted G, R North End 3733 N. Halsted G Roscoe’s 3356 N. Halsted G, D, V, DS Scarlet 3320 N. Halsted G Sidetrack 3349 N. Halsted G, V Smart Bar / Metro 3730 N. Clark MS, D, 4 The Closet 3325 N. Broadway G&L, V, 4

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Chicago Southside

Chicago Downtown

Baton Show Lounge 436 N. Clark DS 312.644.5269 Club 720 720 N. Wells MS, D, 4 312.787.8720 Crimson Lounge 333 N. Dearborn MS, D, R 312.923.2473 Downtown Bar & Lounge 440 N State G 312.464.1400 Excalibur/Vision 632 N. Dearborn MS, D, 4 312.266.1944 Funky Buddha 728 W. Grand Ave. MS, D 312.666.1695 House of Blues 329 N. Dearborn MS, LM, 4 312.923.2000 Krush/Prop House 1657 N. Elston G&L, D, 4 773.486.2390 Second Story Bar 157 E. Ohio G, V 312.923.9536 Sound Bar 226 W. Ontario MS, D, 4 312.787-4480 Spy Bar 646 N. Franklin MS, D, 4 312.587.8779 Underground 56 W. Illinois MS, D, 4 312.644.7600 Vibe 1543 N. Kingsbury MS, D, 4 312.266.1900

Chicago Northside

The Anvil 1137 W. Granville G, V @mosphere 5355 N. Clark G&L, V, GB Big Chicks 5024 N. Sheridan G&L, D, R

Club Escape 1530 E. 75th G&L, D Escapades 6301 S. Harlem G&L, D, V, 4 Inn Exile 5758 W. 65th G&L, D, V Jeffrey Pub 7041 S. Jeffrey G&L, D, V, 4

Chicago Suburbs

773.973.0006 773.784.1100 773.728.5511

773.667.6454 773.229.0886 773.582.3510 773.363.8555

Hideaway 7301 W. Roosevelt Forest Park G, D, V, DS, GB Club Krave 13126 S. Western Blue Island G&L, D, V, DS, GB, 4 Hunters 1932 E. Higgins Elk Grove Village G, D, V, GB, 4 Mission 209 E. Chicago Downtown Elgin G&L, D, V Encompass 24215 Rush St. Lake Station, IN G&L, D, R, DS Velvet Rope 728 Lake St Oak Park G&L, D, V, R

Adult Entertainment

G------------------------------------------------------------------Gay Male L---------------------------------------------------------------------Lesbian G&L-------------------------------------------------Gay Male & Lesbian D-------------------------------------------------------------------Dancing V-----------------------------------------------------------------------Video GB-------------------------------------------------------------Go Go Boys DS--------------------------------------------------------------Drag Show R--------------------------------------------------------Restaurant, Food

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Chicago Northside CONTINUED

Crew 4804 N. Broadway G&L, V, R 773.784.2739 Davenport’s 1383 N. Milwaukee G&L, LM 773.278.1830 Debonair Social Club 1575 N. MilwaukeeAve. MS, D 773.227.7990 Fat Cat 4849 N. Broadway MS, R 773.506.3100 Green Dolphin St. 2200 N. Ashland G&L, D, LM, 4 773.395.0066 Green Mill 4802 N. Broadway MS, LM, 4 773.878.5552 In Fine Spirits 5420 N Clark MS, R 773.334.9463 Jackhammer 6406 N. Clark G, D, V, GB, LM, 4 773.743.5772 Joi de Vine 1744 W. Balmoral L, R 773.989.6846 Kinetic Playground 1113 W. LawrenceMS, D, LM, 4 773.769.5483 Marty’s 1511 W. Balmoral G&L 773.561.6425 Mary’s Attic 5400 N Clark G&L, D, V, R 773.784.6969 Parlour On Clark 6341 N. Clark 773.564.9274 Mary’s RecRoom 5402 N Clark G&L, D, V, R 773.784.6969 Scot’s 1829 W. Montrose G&L 773.528.3253 SoFo Bar 4923 N. Clark G 773.784.7636 T’s 5025 N. Clark G&L, R 773.784.6000 The Call 1547 W Bryn Mawr G&L, D, DS, V, LM 773.334.2525 The Glenwood 6962 N Glenwood G 773.764.7363 Touché 6412 N. Clark G, V, LF, 4 773.465.7400 Uptown Lounge 1136 W. Lawrence 773.878.1136

Banana Video 4923 N. Clark G, BK Bijou Theater 1349 N. Wells G, GB, BK Man’s Country 5017 N. Clark G, GB, BH Steamworks 3246 N. Halsted G, BH, FC The Ram 35111/2 N. Halsted G, BK, D

708.771.4459 708.597.8379 847.439.8840 847.488.0320 219.962.4640 708.358.8840

773.561.8322 312.943.5397 773.878.2069 773.929.6080 773.525.9528

4-------------------------------------------------------------Open til 4am MS--------------------------------------------------------Mostly Straight LF---------------------------------------------------------Leather / Fetish W-------------------------------------------------------------------Western LM--------------------------------------------------Live Music / Cabaret BH--------------------------------------------------------------Bath House BK----------------------------------Adult Book, Booth & Video Store FC-------------------------------------------------------------Fitness Club