Volume
16 No. 9 June 11,
2009Compiled & written by Mike Fitzpatrick
Top
Stories:
Rejects Anti-Gay Book Restrictions
West Bend - On June 2 the West Bend Library Board by a vote of 9-0 rejected efforts by a fundamentalist couple and their supporters to restrict access of young adults to books allegedly depicting explicit sex among teenagers and those alluding to teenage homosexuality or gay relationships. Sixty individuals presented their contrasting views on the subject for more than two hours prior to the board’s vote.
Board members reported that books with such controversial passages are already separated in the West Bend Library from children’s books. The books are placed in either in the young adult fiction section on the first floor of the library or shelved as young adult non-fiction alongside similar adult texts on the building’s second floor.
Debate
was evenly divided during the public hearing that preceded the vote.
Those offended cited the books’ allegedly “graphic” details of teenage
sexual encounters, most of which were cherry picked and published out
of context by would-be book banner Ginny Maziarka on her WISSUP blog.
Those opposing the book banner cited Constitutional protections against
censorship and the role of parents in monitoring their children’s
reading material.Unlike meetings that had to be cancelled last Spring due to overflow crowds, the most recent board meeting - held in the 600-seat gymnasium at McLane Elementary School - was only one-third full.
The contentious issue started earlier this year when Maziarka and her husband issued request that demanded that the library board remove books that the couple considers to be “child pornography” from the Young Adult section of the library and a related four-year old web page that listed a variety of books that addressed gay and lesbian issues. The couple later created a group named the West Bend Citizens for Safe Libraries and sought support from outside so-called “family” and “safe library” groups. The Maziarkas also held a petition drive that paralleled the Spring elections. Maziarka’s blog openly supported the conservative candidates and offered links to the Wisconsin Family Council.
In response to the Maziarkas’ original request, fellow West Bend resident Maria Hanrahan started an opposing group called the West Bend Parents for Free Speech. Hanrahan and her supporters also circulated a counter-petition. At the board meeting, both petitions were submitted with Hanrahan’s signatures outnumbering the Maziarkas’ 1,068 to less than 700.
The Maziarkas’ petition expanded their demands, asking the Library Board to “balance” its collection of books with gay and lesbian themes to with “faith-based” and “ex-gay” authored tomes on homosexuality and “traditional heterosexual perspectives.”
Hanrahan’s petition requested the board to protect the library from censorship by essentially rejecting all of the Maziarkas’ revised demands.
The Library Board’s 9-0 vote included four “nays” from members whose appointments were not renewed by an April West Bend Common Council vote denying their request. Council members felt the board had been stonewalling the Maziarkas. Board members had countered that the board was following the advice of the city’s attorneys who sought to avoid lawsuits on the issue.
About a dozen citizens have applied to accept an appointment on the board including free speech advocate Hanrahan. The West Bend council has yet to set a selection committee. Ginny Maziarka continues blogging on WISSUP about the issue.
Domestic Partner Protections Still In Budget Bill As Final Votes Near
Madison - June 10 vote had been scheduled in the Wisconsin Assembly on the 2009-2010 biennial budget. AB 75, as the bill is
officially
known, still
contained intact - as Quest
went to press - Governor Jim Doyle’s plan to provide over 40 legal
protections to same sex couples who register for them. The partner
protections plan is one of several policy items in the spending bill,
some of which - such as a new high end state income tax category,
allowing school district employees to use collective bargaining and
increased minimum auto insurance coverage requirements - are causing
nearly all Republicans and reportedly several members of the slim
52-vote Democratic majority to call for their elimination. In a memo circulated June 4, Assembly Representative Bob Ziegelbauer (D-Manitowoc) sought co-sponsors for an amendment to eliminate five such items. Second on Ziegelbauer’s was the same-sex domestic partner plan. Closed-door Democratic caucuses held June 5 discussed items in Ziegelbauer’s memo but the DP plan reportedly was not one of the items seriously reviewed.
The close vote also prompted Fair Wisconsin to urge its supporters to contact their representatives in both houses of the legislature, but especially the Assembly. In a June 3 email, the statewide LGBT civil rights equality group advised recipients “We need your support to get over this next hurdle!” and to “Encourage your state representative to do the fair and decent thing by voting for the budget containing these crucial protections for committed same-sex couples.”
The memo also addressed the worsening rate of tax revenues further crunching the budget by noting that representatives need to hear “even in difficult economic times, the government shouldn’t stand in the way of a couple’s ability to take care of each other.”
Insiders say that some policy items might fall from the final version of budget passed by the Assembly. However, they might be restored if passed by the Senate. A conference committee must resolve any differences in the budget bill passed by each house. The conference committee report is then voted on by each legislative body with an “up or down” vote with no further amendments permitted. The final budget is expected to reach Governor Doyle’s desk by the end of June.
Political strategists believe the domestic partner protections will still be part of the bill.
World & National News:
Obama Declares June Gay Pride Month
Washington, D.C. - For the second time in U.S. history a sitting United States President has issued a proclamation for “Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Pride Month.” President Barack Obama followed former President Bill Clinton in issuing such a
statement here
June 1. The
notable difference, however, is that Clinton’s proclamation came late
in his second term while Obama issued his honor in his first year in
office.
In the proclamation, Obama mentioned the legislative priorities, including overturning the Defense of Marriage Act, which defines marriage as between one man and one woman and allows states not to recognize gay marriages performed in other states, and the “don’t ask, don’t tell” policy, which bars gay men and women from serving openly in the military.
“I continue to support measures to bring the full spectrum of equal rights to LGBT Americans,” Obama stated in the proclamation. “As long as the promise of equality for all remains unfulfilled, all Americans are affected,” he adds, calling on Congress and the American people to “work together to promote equal rights for all, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.”
However Obama not make any promises on the timing of any action.
The month is timed to commemorate the 1969 Stonewall protest in New York City that in many ways launched the gay pride movement. “Thanks to that movement,” Obama wrote, “more LGBT Americans are living their lives openly than ever before.”
Some activists were quick to that the shine off the historic proclamation, however. “A proclamation, while encouraging, is far from enough at this point,” a gay critic from Kansas wrote on one gay news website. “He gave us a month but I still don’t have equal rights,” another from Ohio submitted.
But others urged patience, noting that President Obama has been in the White House for only five months. “I know everyone is frustrated by the perceived lack of progress,” a post from California stated. “But remember where we were only 6 months ago. We are in much better shape today.”
Washington, D.C. - For the second time in U.S. history a sitting United States President has issued a proclamation for “Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Pride Month.” President Barack Obama followed former President Bill Clinton in issuing such a
statement here
June 1. The
notable difference, however, is that Clinton’s proclamation came late
in his second term while Obama issued his honor in his first year in
office.In the proclamation, Obama mentioned the legislative priorities, including overturning the Defense of Marriage Act, which defines marriage as between one man and one woman and allows states not to recognize gay marriages performed in other states, and the “don’t ask, don’t tell” policy, which bars gay men and women from serving openly in the military.
“I continue to support measures to bring the full spectrum of equal rights to LGBT Americans,” Obama stated in the proclamation. “As long as the promise of equality for all remains unfulfilled, all Americans are affected,” he adds, calling on Congress and the American people to “work together to promote equal rights for all, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.”
However Obama not make any promises on the timing of any action.
The month is timed to commemorate the 1969 Stonewall protest in New York City that in many ways launched the gay pride movement. “Thanks to that movement,” Obama wrote, “more LGBT Americans are living their lives openly than ever before.”
Some activists were quick to that the shine off the historic proclamation, however. “A proclamation, while encouraging, is far from enough at this point,” a gay critic from Kansas wrote on one gay news website. “He gave us a month but I still don’t have equal rights,” another from Ohio submitted.
But others urged patience, noting that President Obama has been in the White House for only five months. “I know everyone is frustrated by the perceived lack of progress,” a post from California stated. “But remember where we were only 6 months ago. We are in much better shape today.”
State News:
Cancer Claims Center Project Co-Founder
Thompson
Green Bay - Thomas “Thom” N. Thompson, 59, Green Bay, died Sunday, May 31, after a brief battle with cancer. Thom was
born Nov. 18,
1949 in
Wausau. In 1985 Thompson, with then partner Mike Belinski and several
others founded Center Project, the first AIDS service organization to
serve northeast Wisconsin. The agency grew to serve HIV testing,
prevention and life care services needs for nine counties with three
offices prior to merging with ARCW in April, 1997.
Thom also taught English in the Green Bay School District for 33 years. Thom’s advice was to be a life long learner. Teachers should continue to learn; and teach the love of being a life long learner.
Thompson is survived by his life-mate of 21 years, John, Green Bay; and his sister, Judy Hirst, Monroe, Washington. He was preceded in death by his parents.
A private memorial service will be held at a later date. Proko-Wall Funeral Home is assisting the family. Online condolences may be sent to Thom’s family at www.prokowall.com.
Diversity Sunday Set For June 14
Milwaukee - On Sunday, June 14, the members of St. Paul’s Church, 914 E. Knapp, Milwaukee, will celebrate the diversity of the congregation and honor their tradition that all are welcome. The public is invited attend any or all to the planned events:
The programs will begin 9AM with an Adult Education Forum on “Saints and Diversity,” facilitated by William Stotts. At 10:15AM there will be the celebration of the Holy Eucharist with choral offerings, followed by a festive social hour with treats, Mimosas, coffee and conversation.
Attendees also my take an informal garden tour provided by the volunteer gardeners of St. Paul’s Layweeders. Participants will be able to enjoy the spring and summer splendors of over 100 species of plants found in the gardens surrounding the church.
At Noon Paul Haubrich, PhD will provide a tour of St. Paul’s windows that includes Wisconsin’s largest collection of Tiffany windows including the largest window ever made by the Tiffany Studio.
St. Paul’s is proud that their congregation includes an array of diversities: young and not-so-young; city dwellers and suburbanites, black, white, Asian, Hispanic and multiracial; gay, lesbian, bisexual and strait; single, married and partnered; PhDs, skilled workers and high school graduates; wealthy, on fixed incomes and struggling from paycheck-to paycheck; and, employed, retired and those seeking employment.
St. Paul’s Church was founded in 1838 and is the oldest Episcopal Church in Milwaukee. The congregation preceded both the incorporation of the city and Episcopal Diocese of Milwaukee. St. Paul’s has always been located in the downtown area.
Legal Protections Workshop Kicks Off Pride Alive Events
Green Bay - “Safeguarding Our lives Together,” a seminar and workshop on legal protections for same sex couples and LGBT individuals, is set for Wednesday, July 8 here. The two and a half hour workshop will begin at 6:15 PM in the Community Room at
the Harmony Café, 1660 W. Mason
St. The workshop is the kick-off event for this years Pride
Alive, the
northeast Wisconsin LGBT community’s pride celebration.
“With so many recent changes in gay marriage, civil union and domestic partnership laws, many same gender couples are at a loss as to what to do next,” workshop organizer Mike Fitzpatrick said. “However, the decision to do nothing until the legal landscape settles could be disastrous in a family emergency. That’s why Pride Alive is offering this important seminar.”
Featured speaker at the seminar will be Madison attorney Scott Mickelson, whose practice includes specializes in part on LGBT issues. Mickelson will outline the necessary legal documents individuals and same-sex couples need to assure their wishes are followed in times of emergency or unexpected death.
Workshop attendees will have the opportunity to complete a checklist of needed legal documents and complete standardized Wisconsin durable powers of attorney forms. Additional notaries public and attorneys are also scheduled to attend.
The workshop will also utilize materials prepared by the Partners Task Force for Gay & Lesbian Couples, a national project providing practical strategies for non-traditional couples. According to a survey taken by that advocacy group, less than 5% of all same-sex couples have all the legal documents necessary to protect themselves, their dependents, and their possessions.
Although there is no charge for the workshop, registration is necessary to ensure that enough copies of necessary paper work is available for attendees. Couples also will need to bring identification and other information that will be explained when registrations are confirmed.
Those interested in attending can register online at the Pride Alive website at: www.newpride.org or by sending an email to info@newpride.org. Phone reservations may be made by calling Mike at 920-437-0994.
Refreshments for seminar attendees also will be available for purchase at the Harmony Café.
Nominations Sought for OutReach Community Awards
Madison - OutReach, Madison & South Central Wisconsin’s LGBT Community Center, is seeking nominations of individuals,
organizations
and businesses that have made outstanding contributions to Madison’s
LGBT community in the past year. Awards will be presented at
OutReach’s 17th Annual Community Awards Banquet, to be held Friday,
July 17, at the Monona Terrace Convention Center.
Award categories are David Runyon Memorial Man of the Year, Susan Green Memorial Woman of the Year, Business or Organization of the Year, Ally of the Year (non-LGBT individuals or groups that support the LGBT community) and OutReach Volunteer of the Year.
Nomination forms are available at OutReach, 600 Williamson St, by phone by calling 608-255-8582 or online at: www.lgbtoutreach.org. Nominations must be received by June 21, 2009. A committee of community members reviews the nominations and selects award recipients. Past award winners, OutReach staff and board members are not eligible.
The OutReach LGBT Community Center has served Madison & Dane County’s lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender communities since 1973, providing counseling, advocacy, education, and information/referral services. The center also offers a lending library, free publications, and meeting space, and other services.
For more information, contact Harry Straetz, Program Director at OutReach by phone at: 608-255-8582, or by email at: harrys@lgbtoutreach.org.
AIDS Walk Wisconsin Names Bon Iver As 2009 Honorary Chair
Milwaukee - Bon Iver, the rapidly-rising internationally acclaimed singer-songwriter from Eau Claire, Wisconsin, will serve as the AIDS Walk Wisconsin 2009 Honorary Chair.
Bon Iver’s
popularity has soared through performances before
enthusiastic crowds across the United States, Europe and Australia.
Rolling Stone, Spin, JamBase and MOJO magazines have offered critical
acclaim for his work, with each including his album “For Emma, Forever
Ago” as one of the best of 2008.
Bon Iver’s music and lyrics has been described as both haunting and gorgeous. In a recent story, Entertainment Weekly tapped Bon Iver as quickly becoming one of the biggest names in indie rock today. Bon Iver also was named the Wisconsin Area Music Industry’s (WAMI) Artist of the Year.
“AIDS is a life threatening disease affecting millions of people all over the world, including thousands right here at home in Wisconsin,” Justin Vernon, whose stage name is Bon Iver, said. “I am pleased that my music can help AIDS Walk Wisconsin raise funds for the fight against AIDS, and I am proud to serve as its Honorary Chair.”
2009 marks the twentieth annual AIDS Walk Wisconsin which is expected to surpass a total of $10 million raised since its inception to support AIDS prevention, care and treatment services in the state. A major beneficiary of AIDS Walk Wisconsin is the ARCW Medical Center, the largest provider of HIV medical, dental and mental health care services in the state.
Bon Iver urges fans to register early for the event online at: aidswalkwis.org or by calling 800-348-9255. All proceeds from AIDS Walk Wisconsin stay in Wisconsin for the fight against AIDS.
Green Bay - Thomas “Thom” N. Thompson, 59, Green Bay, died Sunday, May 31, after a brief battle with cancer. Thom was
born Nov. 18,
1949 in
Wausau. In 1985 Thompson, with then partner Mike Belinski and several
others founded Center Project, the first AIDS service organization to
serve northeast Wisconsin. The agency grew to serve HIV testing,
prevention and life care services needs for nine counties with three
offices prior to merging with ARCW in April, 1997.Thom also taught English in the Green Bay School District for 33 years. Thom’s advice was to be a life long learner. Teachers should continue to learn; and teach the love of being a life long learner.
Thompson is survived by his life-mate of 21 years, John, Green Bay; and his sister, Judy Hirst, Monroe, Washington. He was preceded in death by his parents.
A private memorial service will be held at a later date. Proko-Wall Funeral Home is assisting the family. Online condolences may be sent to Thom’s family at www.prokowall.com.
Diversity Sunday Set For June 14
Milwaukee - On Sunday, June 14, the members of St. Paul’s Church, 914 E. Knapp, Milwaukee, will celebrate the diversity of the congregation and honor their tradition that all are welcome. The public is invited attend any or all to the planned events:
The programs will begin 9AM with an Adult Education Forum on “Saints and Diversity,” facilitated by William Stotts. At 10:15AM there will be the celebration of the Holy Eucharist with choral offerings, followed by a festive social hour with treats, Mimosas, coffee and conversation.
Attendees also my take an informal garden tour provided by the volunteer gardeners of St. Paul’s Layweeders. Participants will be able to enjoy the spring and summer splendors of over 100 species of plants found in the gardens surrounding the church.
At Noon Paul Haubrich, PhD will provide a tour of St. Paul’s windows that includes Wisconsin’s largest collection of Tiffany windows including the largest window ever made by the Tiffany Studio.
St. Paul’s is proud that their congregation includes an array of diversities: young and not-so-young; city dwellers and suburbanites, black, white, Asian, Hispanic and multiracial; gay, lesbian, bisexual and strait; single, married and partnered; PhDs, skilled workers and high school graduates; wealthy, on fixed incomes and struggling from paycheck-to paycheck; and, employed, retired and those seeking employment.
St. Paul’s Church was founded in 1838 and is the oldest Episcopal Church in Milwaukee. The congregation preceded both the incorporation of the city and Episcopal Diocese of Milwaukee. St. Paul’s has always been located in the downtown area.
Legal Protections Workshop Kicks Off Pride Alive Events
Green Bay - “Safeguarding Our lives Together,” a seminar and workshop on legal protections for same sex couples and LGBT individuals, is set for Wednesday, July 8 here. The two and a half hour workshop will begin at 6:15 PM in the Community Room at
the Harmony Café, 1660 W. Mason
St. The workshop is the kick-off event for this years Pride
Alive, the
northeast Wisconsin LGBT community’s pride celebration.“With so many recent changes in gay marriage, civil union and domestic partnership laws, many same gender couples are at a loss as to what to do next,” workshop organizer Mike Fitzpatrick said. “However, the decision to do nothing until the legal landscape settles could be disastrous in a family emergency. That’s why Pride Alive is offering this important seminar.”
Featured speaker at the seminar will be Madison attorney Scott Mickelson, whose practice includes specializes in part on LGBT issues. Mickelson will outline the necessary legal documents individuals and same-sex couples need to assure their wishes are followed in times of emergency or unexpected death.
Workshop attendees will have the opportunity to complete a checklist of needed legal documents and complete standardized Wisconsin durable powers of attorney forms. Additional notaries public and attorneys are also scheduled to attend.
The workshop will also utilize materials prepared by the Partners Task Force for Gay & Lesbian Couples, a national project providing practical strategies for non-traditional couples. According to a survey taken by that advocacy group, less than 5% of all same-sex couples have all the legal documents necessary to protect themselves, their dependents, and their possessions.
Although there is no charge for the workshop, registration is necessary to ensure that enough copies of necessary paper work is available for attendees. Couples also will need to bring identification and other information that will be explained when registrations are confirmed.
Those interested in attending can register online at the Pride Alive website at: www.newpride.org or by sending an email to info@newpride.org. Phone reservations may be made by calling Mike at 920-437-0994.
Refreshments for seminar attendees also will be available for purchase at the Harmony Café.
Nominations Sought for OutReach Community Awards
Madison - OutReach, Madison & South Central Wisconsin’s LGBT Community Center, is seeking nominations of individuals,
organizations
and businesses that have made outstanding contributions to Madison’s
LGBT community in the past year. Awards will be presented at
OutReach’s 17th Annual Community Awards Banquet, to be held Friday,
July 17, at the Monona Terrace Convention Center. Award categories are David Runyon Memorial Man of the Year, Susan Green Memorial Woman of the Year, Business or Organization of the Year, Ally of the Year (non-LGBT individuals or groups that support the LGBT community) and OutReach Volunteer of the Year.
Nomination forms are available at OutReach, 600 Williamson St, by phone by calling 608-255-8582 or online at: www.lgbtoutreach.org. Nominations must be received by June 21, 2009. A committee of community members reviews the nominations and selects award recipients. Past award winners, OutReach staff and board members are not eligible.
The OutReach LGBT Community Center has served Madison & Dane County’s lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender communities since 1973, providing counseling, advocacy, education, and information/referral services. The center also offers a lending library, free publications, and meeting space, and other services.
For more information, contact Harry Straetz, Program Director at OutReach by phone at: 608-255-8582, or by email at: harrys@lgbtoutreach.org.
AIDS Walk Wisconsin Names Bon Iver As 2009 Honorary Chair
Milwaukee - Bon Iver, the rapidly-rising internationally acclaimed singer-songwriter from Eau Claire, Wisconsin, will serve as the AIDS Walk Wisconsin 2009 Honorary Chair.
Bon Iver’s
popularity has soared through performances before
enthusiastic crowds across the United States, Europe and Australia.
Rolling Stone, Spin, JamBase and MOJO magazines have offered critical
acclaim for his work, with each including his album “For Emma, Forever
Ago” as one of the best of 2008. Bon Iver’s music and lyrics has been described as both haunting and gorgeous. In a recent story, Entertainment Weekly tapped Bon Iver as quickly becoming one of the biggest names in indie rock today. Bon Iver also was named the Wisconsin Area Music Industry’s (WAMI) Artist of the Year.
“AIDS is a life threatening disease affecting millions of people all over the world, including thousands right here at home in Wisconsin,” Justin Vernon, whose stage name is Bon Iver, said. “I am pleased that my music can help AIDS Walk Wisconsin raise funds for the fight against AIDS, and I am proud to serve as its Honorary Chair.”
2009 marks the twentieth annual AIDS Walk Wisconsin which is expected to surpass a total of $10 million raised since its inception to support AIDS prevention, care and treatment services in the state. A major beneficiary of AIDS Walk Wisconsin is the ARCW Medical Center, the largest provider of HIV medical, dental and mental health care services in the state.
Bon Iver urges fans to register early for the event online at: aidswalkwis.org or by calling 800-348-9255. All proceeds from AIDS Walk Wisconsin stay in Wisconsin for the fight against AIDS.
Arts & Entertainment:
PrideFest Celebrates 40th Anniversary of
Stonewall
Milwaukee - Last year’s torrential rains, lightening, and false reports that the festival was cancelled almost washed out Milwaukee’s Pride Festival. But rain also helps things grow, and this year PrideFest returns boasting the nation’s largest LGBT pride entertainment lineup. PrideFest 2009 will take place June 12, 13 and 14 at Henry Maier Festival Park - rain or shine.
Also simultaneously, PrideFest will celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Stonewall riots, when a group of gay and straight activists
stood up to the government-endorsed persecution of the LGBT
community after a police raid of the Stonewall Inn in New York City’s
Greenwich Village. PrideFest as well as many other LGBT events
nationwide were made possible by the fight to allow gay-friendly
institutions to support and patronize the LGBT community without fear
of negative government interference.
“Change is occurring today just as it did during the period of Stonewall riots,” PrideFest President Scott Gunkel said. “The United States has installed its first African-American president, more and more states are legalizing gay marriage, and the dreams of Stonewall and other advocates are turning into realities. PrideFest 2009 is a great opportunity for all of us to remember our past, rejoice over the progress made in the present, and welcome an even better future.”
According to organizers, PrideFest’s mission is to celebrate the diversity of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) culture and community. In addition to a smorgasbord of food, a variety of merchandise and fun educational activities, Milwaukee’s PrideFest presents full-length concerts from popular gay and straight performers.
“The truly wonderful aspect of PrideFest’s entertainment line-up is the mix of independent and successful gay artists along with A-list mainstream entertainers and icons who have clearly shown their support for equality and the gay community,” PrideFest Entertainment Director David Charpentier told Quest.
PrideFest will feature pop icon and gay rights activist Cyndi Lauper, R&B and television superstar Brandy, and the legendary Etta James. Other featured performers include R&B sensation Deborah Cox, the fun and funky Roots Band, Swedish dance singer September, drag performer Jade from RuPaul’s Drag Race, and more than 120 additional performers.
Cyndi Lauper is well-known for a number of popular hits including “Girls Just Want to Have Fun” and “Time After Time.” Brandy’s resume includes R&B chart topper as well as acclaimed actress in her sitcom Moesha and the 1997 television remake of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s musical “Cinderella.” And of course everyone knows of music legend Etta James, whose famous single “At Last” was featured at the U.S. president’s 2009 Inaugural Ball.
Many dedicated volunteers are working to bring attendees this year’s festival. This enduring commitment from the community has helped to keep the festival alive over the years. PrideFest serves the vital purpose of bringing us together to celebrate our common experiences as well as our incredible diversity. PrideFest is accomplished through the work of the Board of Directors, which oversees the festival year-round, and the production team, which develops and carries out the day-to-day planning of the festival.
For more information about PrideFest, visit the website at: www.pridefest.com or pick up the 52-page issue of Quest’s Pride Guide available at over a hundred locations statewide or at the festival grounds.
Vaudeville Vamps Return to Madison
Madison - Described as “unapologetically out of sync with the times” and “tunefully disarming” by the Washington Post, The musical duo The Ditty Bops will once again bring their unique spin on live performance here June 17.The Ditty Bops will perform in concert
on
Wednesday, June 17 at 7:30 PM at the
Barrymore Theatre, 2090 Atwood Ave.
If the line between Amanda Barrett and Abby DeWald’s personal relationship and artistic career does exist, it’s blurry at best. Romantically involved since the late 90s, Barrett and DeWald of The Ditty Bops first fused their creative musical talents together in 2004 with the release of their self-titled debut album. The Ditty Bops can’t help but find artistic beauty in all of life, an idea reflected not only in their partnership as musicians but also in their partnership with one another. After four successful years of sharing their artistic partnership with the world, the “Vaudeville Vamps” married in October 2008, confirming their commitment to each other and the art they live to create.
The darling duo put on a Vaudeville-esque performance complete with elaborate costumes, theatrical skits, and playful tunes as catchy as their name. Their irresistibly charming sound bounces from genre to genre, plucking out folk, swing, ragtime, and jazz inspired melodies on mandolins and ukuleles while layering simple vocal harmonies on top.
The forward-thinking females both share an intense passion for the environment and vigorously promote green living through example and their music. Hoping to inspire people to live a greener life, the Ditty Bops ditched the tour bus, strapped their guitars on their backs and biked across the country to promote their second album, “Moon Over the Freeway.” Further displaying their environmental activism, the group formed the environmental non-profit “You and I Save the World,” which helped pass America’s first plastic bag ban in San Francisco. The Ditty Bops incorporate their eco-friendliness directly into their music, passing out reusable bags at shows and creating vintage album covers with recycled paper and soy-based ink.
In 2008, The Ditty Bops toured through farming communities across the country, to bring attention the struggles and achievements of family farmers. Their tour raised money for sustainable farmers and culminated with a performance at Willie Nelson’s nonprofit concert Farm Aid.
With the release of their Grammy Award nominated album “Summer Rains, “The Ditty Bops continue to bewitch their listeners with iridescent golden harmonies, playful storytelling and a visionary lyrical world view. Their music has been described as genre-defying, bearing influence of Western Swing, Ragtime, Gypsy-Jazz, Pop, and Vaudeville-era Musical Theater. Teaming up again with Grammy-nominated producer Mitchell Froom (Suzanne Vega, Paul McCartney, Elvis Costello), The Ditty Bops have generated a work of whimsical invention and exceptional craftsmanship.
The Bops have been featured on Late Night with Conan O’Brian, The Late Late Show with Craig Fergusson, The L Word, Extra, NPR’s All Things Considered, and A Prairie Home Companion, and have toured with diverse performers including Tori Amos, Nickel Creek and Nancy Sinatra. Their music has also appeared on ABC’s Gray’s Anatomy, Men in Trees, and in numerous films and commercials.
Tickets for the Ditty Bops all ages concert are $16 in advance, $18 day of show. Tickets may be purchased by calling the Barrymore at: 608-241-8864 or online at the theater’s website: www.barrymorelive.com
Southeast Wisconsin LGBT Center Hosts Two June Art Exhibits
Racine - “Men for All Seasons” and “The Best of Friends,” two extraordinary exhibits unique to the LGBT Center of SE Wisconsin, will be on display at Center’s Art Gallery in June.
A whimsical and slightly naughty series drawn by Milwaukee artist Joe Simon, “Men for All Seasons” features large, full-color framed art of scantily clad, virile men posing or popping up in the most improbable places. As one viewer commented: “The art is scrumptious and all the men portrayed look good enough to eat!” Simon’s exhibit will be on display at the LGBT Center throughout June and July.
“The Best of Friends,” a collection of more than 50 vintage mid-19th century to early 20th century photographs, comprises cabinet cards, cartes de viste, and tintypes collected over the years by Dennis Harde that show loving poses between people of the same gender. “Not all affection between members of the same sex is sexual,” LGBT Center Director Bruce Joffe told Quest. “As prurient standards in American society changed over the years, it’s particularly interesting how unabashedly unequivocal people were over 100 years ago about public displays of same-gender relationships and affection.” This special collection also will be displayed for one day only, Saturday, June 20, at Uptown Racine’s Second Annual Festival and Open House Celebration.
The public is invited to visit and view these exhibits during the LGBT Center’s regular hours: Daily (except Tuesdays and Sundays) from 9 -11:00 AM and from 2 -4 PM. Saturdays, the LGBT Center and its Art Gallery are open from 10 AM until 2 PM. In addition, the LGBT Center will be open for visitors during Gallery Night. The Center is located at 1456 Junction Avenue, a half block off of Washington Avenue, in uptown Racine.
For more information, please visit the LGBT Center’s website at: www.lgbtsewisc.org or call the Center at: 262-664-4100.
“Milk” On The Menu At The Chippewa Valley LGBT Center
Eau Claire - “Saturday Night at the Movies”at the LGBT Center of the Chippewa Valley will feature the Academy Award-winning
film biography
Milk here June
20. “Milk” tells the story of San Francisco City Supervisor
Harvey Milk, the first openly gay elected official in the United
States. Sean Penn won an Oscar for his portrayal. The doors
will open at 7:15 PM and the “Milk” will spill on screen at 7:30.
Admission and popcorn are free. Beverages and movie snacks are also
available for purchase.
The Center will also sponsor a bus trip to Twin Cities Pride. Community members who want to save the expense of gas and parking, relax and let a professional do the driving so they can relax and hang out with friends are encouraged to sign-up. The bus will begin loading at 8:30 AM on Sunday, June 28 with departure from Eau Claire at 8:45. The group will arrive in downtown Minneapolis just in time for the Ashley Rukes LGBT Pride Parade. After the parade, riders will be free to walk around downtown Minneapolis or the festival grounds in Loring Park. The bus will begin loading at 6 PM for its departure back to Eau Claire at 6:15.
The ticket price includes free parking in Eau Claire, the round trip ride,a continental breakfast, and a welcome gag filled with information and treats. Tickets are $15 for Community Center members and $20 for non-members. To register for the trip, email PrideBusRide@yahoo.com or call the Center at 715-552-LGBT to make reservations. Registration deadline is Tuesday, June 16.
Positive Voice Sets June Events
Appleton - Do you love to have fun? Do you love to hang with your friends? Do you love wearing someone else shoes? Join members of Positive Voice at the 10th Frame bowing lanes, 618 W Wisconsin Ave. here Sunday June 14 at 3 PM for an afternoon of bowling.
Positive Voice also will be gathering on Saturday, June 27 at 6:35 PM for the Wisconsin Timber Rattlers baseball battle with the Peoria Chiefs. In addition to the excitement on the diamond there will be a fireworks show following the game.
Tickets are $6.50 for reserved setting. Reservation deadline is June 15. Ticket orders for this family event should be made with Lynn Nash via email at: ljohnson@pvinc.org or by calling 715-850-0841.
“Last Bash” Benefits LaCrosse Pride
LaCrosse - The last event at Players Lounge here before the club moves to its new location will by a major fundraiser for LaCrosse Pride. Illusions Productions will present “the Last Bash” featuring entertainers Averi, Champagne, Cory, Holiday, Liza and Scotty.
Doors will open at 8 PM with show time at 9 PM. Tickets are $7 each. Reservations for the show are strongly suggested. Request “Players Last Bash” at illusionsreservations@yahoo.com.
5th Rainbow Community Picnic Planned For July 18
Milwaukee - The 5th Annual Rainbow Community Picnic and Potluck has been set for Saturday, July 18 from Noon to 4 PM at the green space behind the Washington Park Senior Center, 4420 W. Vliet Street here.
Lunch served about 1 PM. Sponsors will provide burgers, brats, veggie burgers, buns, condiments and utensils. Attendees are asked to bring a potluck item using the following formula: those whose last name begins with A-L are asked to bring a side dish such as potato salad, macaroni salad, etc. Those with last names beginning M-S are requested to provide a desserts - cake, pie, melons, fruit, or other sweet treat. Attendees with last names T-Z should bring snacks such as veggies and dip, chips, candy, or other kinds of appetizers. Each item should feed six or more people.
All attendees are strong encouraged to call the SAGE Office at 414-224-0517 to RSVP. Organizers need reservations in order to purchase main dish meat items.
This event is a project of the Rainbow Community Pot Luck Committee that includes the following organizations: the Milwaukee LGBT Community Center-Project Q, PFLAG, SAGE/Milwaukee, Lesbian Alliance, Black and White Men Together (BWMT), Milwaukee Metropolitan Community Church, the Brew City Bears and Plymouth Church.
Rain date for the picnic will be Sunday, July 19
Capitol Pride Announces 2009 Festival
Madison - Wisconsin Capitol Pride (WCP) is proud to announce that the 2009 Pride Festival will be held on Saturday, August 15 and Sunday, August 16 on Willow Island at the Alliant Energy Center.
The Pride Festival will celebrate the diverse LGBT community in Dane County and Greater Wisconsin and will feature various events ranging from live concerts, to contests and family-oriented activities. Wisconsin Capitol Pride has embarked on an aggressive $25,000 fundraising campaign to fund the event.
The 2009 Pride Festival, which will commence on Saturday, August 15 from 2 – 9 PM, will feature a performance by comedienne Vicki Shaw and other local acts. Admission will be $5.
The focal point of Sunday, August 16activities will be a pride parade, beginning at 1 PM that will circle Madison’s Capital Square, starting at Café Montmarte and ending at the corner of Pinckney St. and East Washington Avenue. The parade will be followed by a community picnic celebration at Willow Island at the Alliant Energy Center from 2 – 7 PM. Family friendly activities and performances by local groups and organizations will be the focus of the day’s events. Admission on Sunday will be free, however Wisconsin Capital Pride will be asking for donations.
Individuals and groups who are interested in participating in the 2009 Pride Festival by performing, donating, advertising, or vending may contact any member of the WCP board at the festival website: www.wisconsincapitolpride.org. Parade participants also may register online. Any questions about the parade should be directed by email to Derwin Leigh at: dleigh@wisconsincapitolpride.org.
For additional information about Wisconsin Capitol Pride or on the 2009 Pride Festival contact Co-Chairs Scott Willems at: swillems@wisconsincapitolpride.org or Maria Parker at: mparker@wisconsincapitolpride.org. Additional details about the festival will be made available shortly.
Diamond Divas To Open NAGAAAFest World Series
Milwaukee - The Opening Ceremonies of the NAGAAAFest Gay Softball World Series (GSWS) will take on Grammy and disco
ball glitter as legendary disco divas Thelma
Houston and Martha Wash will be joined by critically- acclaimed
Madonna back-up singer Niki Haris and renowned Tina Turner impersonator
Larry Edward in a show being billed by organizers at the “Diamond
Divas.”
“Diamond Divas” will entertain at the Opening Ceremonies of NAGAAAFest on Monday, August 31 on the Briggs & Stratton stage of the Henry Maier “Summerfest” Grounds. The event is set to begin at 5:30 PM.
Grammy legend Thelma Houston will perform her #1 dance and pop hit “Don’t Leave Me This Way,” a song that some say defined the disco era. Houston will also sing several other classic R& B hits such as “Saturday Night Sunday Morning,” and offer a musical tribute to Motown, both part of her “very up beat” and electrifying show.
Houston has performed for over 41 years, recorded 22 albums, and won a Grammy. She recently headlined a show at the Hollywood Bowl with Niles Rogers and brought the capacity crowd of 18,000 people to their feet.
2009 finds Thelma busier than ever, with the recent release of her 22nd album called “A Woman’s Touch.” The new CD features classic songs originally recorded by men with songs such as, “Love and Happiness,” “Distant Lover,” “Brand New Day,” “Wake Up Everybody,” “Imagine,” “Try A Little Tenderness,” “By the Time I Get to Phoenix,” “Never Too Much,” “That’s The Way of the World,” and “Disco Heat/Mighty Real” - a tribute to her friend Sylvester.
Houston will share the stage with fellow diva legend Martha Wash. Martha’s signature vocals front some of the most recognizable pop and dance hits of the 80’s and 90’s. That’s Martha on The Weather Girls’ “It’s Raining Men,” and C & C Music Factory’s 6 million-selling “Gonna Make You Sweat (Everybody Dance Now)” plus Black Box’s “Everybody, Everybody,” and “Strike It Up.”
Wash is a notable star within the gay community and has continued to record new music into the 21st century including 2005’s sizzling hit “You Lift Me Up,” a fusion of gospel and house music, which was the first song produced on her own label, Purple Rose Records. Wash performed in the opening ceremony of the World’s first OutGames in Montreal in July 2006. She has also performed at numerous Human Rights Campaign events in the United States.
Martha also tore down the house in 2006 as a headliner at Milwaukee’s biggest annual party, PrideFest. In 2008 she appeared in June at the Chicago Gay Pride Street Fest and at Duluth-Superior Twin Ports Pride last August.
Also on the bill will be Niki Haris, someone who had been “in the shadow” (singing background) for the last 14 years from 1987 to 2001 to the super diva Madonna. What a lot of people don’t know is that Niki has a five octave voice, and has had several dance hits to her own credit.
Haris’ past hits with Junior Vasquez, and Jelly Bean include “What’s It Gonna Be,” “Do You Love As Good As You Look?.” Other songs “Dance Floor,” “Total Love,” “Do You See The Light?,” and her amazing dance version of the Al Green classic “Let’s Stay Together.”
Niki is also now performing two slammin’ new dance songs produced by DJ/remixer Eddie X: “Let Me Hear The Music” and “This Time Baby.” Haris could also be heard performing the song “Downtown” in the a Visa credit card commercial that aired nationally in 2007-8.
Haris’ vocal film work is also featured on the soundtracks of Corrina, Corrina, The Big Green, Noises Off, Coyote Ugly, and Anastasia. She has also recorded television themes, including co-writing and performing two songs for the Fox series Dark Angel. Haris also has released several jazz vocal albums including the critically acclaimed “Live In Switzerland.”
Rounding out the show is the amazing Tina Turner impersonator Larry Edwards. When he’s not bringing down the house in Las
Vegas as
his alter-ego “Hot Chocolate,” the acclaimed female illusionist is on
tour and also is also known for his impression of Patti LaBelle.
Edwards’ talent has landed him on Oprah in 2008, and on the silver screen with Sandra Bullock in a featured role in “Miss Congeniality 2,” where he transformed from Larry to Tina on screen. Edwards’ proudest moment was his role in in the Academy Award nominated movie, “What’s Love Got To Do With It - The Tina Turner Story,” where he actually performed as his idol.
Edwards has appeared on A&E’s hit TV series MindFreak, VH1’s Flavor Of Love and ABC’s The Next Best Thing. Larry also has been a guest on such programs as The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, Entertainment Tonight, Donahue, The Leeza Show, Sally Jesse, and Howard Stern.
Ever serious about his art, Edwards was central in the 2008 documentary “Pageant” which made its debut at the Sundance Film Festival. “Pageant” features five top contestants who are competing in the Miss Gay America Pageant, a tiara Edwards won back in 1980.
Admission for the NAGAAAFest opening ceremonies and “Diamond Divas” show will be free to all GSWS softball players on the rosters (18) and the 2 designated non-players on each roster. Additional tickets will be available for sale to the general public and team supporters before and on the day of the event. More details will be forthcoming shortly. Those with Facebook accounts can keep up to date by joining the GSWS 2009 group on the social networking site. Information also is available at: www.series2009.org.
Quest Talks With SOS’ Charming Corrine Drewery About Their Smash New Album “Beautiful Mess”
Interview by Mike Fitzpatrick
Drewery: Thanks to you also, it was great talking with you.
Milwaukee - Last year’s torrential rains, lightening, and false reports that the festival was cancelled almost washed out Milwaukee’s Pride Festival. But rain also helps things grow, and this year PrideFest returns boasting the nation’s largest LGBT pride entertainment lineup. PrideFest 2009 will take place June 12, 13 and 14 at Henry Maier Festival Park - rain or shine.
Also simultaneously, PrideFest will celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Stonewall riots, when a group of gay and straight activists
stood up to the government-endorsed persecution of the LGBT
community after a police raid of the Stonewall Inn in New York City’s
Greenwich Village. PrideFest as well as many other LGBT events
nationwide were made possible by the fight to allow gay-friendly
institutions to support and patronize the LGBT community without fear
of negative government interference.“Change is occurring today just as it did during the period of Stonewall riots,” PrideFest President Scott Gunkel said. “The United States has installed its first African-American president, more and more states are legalizing gay marriage, and the dreams of Stonewall and other advocates are turning into realities. PrideFest 2009 is a great opportunity for all of us to remember our past, rejoice over the progress made in the present, and welcome an even better future.”
According to organizers, PrideFest’s mission is to celebrate the diversity of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) culture and community. In addition to a smorgasbord of food, a variety of merchandise and fun educational activities, Milwaukee’s PrideFest presents full-length concerts from popular gay and straight performers.
“The truly wonderful aspect of PrideFest’s entertainment line-up is the mix of independent and successful gay artists along with A-list mainstream entertainers and icons who have clearly shown their support for equality and the gay community,” PrideFest Entertainment Director David Charpentier told Quest.
PrideFest will feature pop icon and gay rights activist Cyndi Lauper, R&B and television superstar Brandy, and the legendary Etta James. Other featured performers include R&B sensation Deborah Cox, the fun and funky Roots Band, Swedish dance singer September, drag performer Jade from RuPaul’s Drag Race, and more than 120 additional performers.
Cyndi Lauper is well-known for a number of popular hits including “Girls Just Want to Have Fun” and “Time After Time.” Brandy’s resume includes R&B chart topper as well as acclaimed actress in her sitcom Moesha and the 1997 television remake of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s musical “Cinderella.” And of course everyone knows of music legend Etta James, whose famous single “At Last” was featured at the U.S. president’s 2009 Inaugural Ball.
Many dedicated volunteers are working to bring attendees this year’s festival. This enduring commitment from the community has helped to keep the festival alive over the years. PrideFest serves the vital purpose of bringing us together to celebrate our common experiences as well as our incredible diversity. PrideFest is accomplished through the work of the Board of Directors, which oversees the festival year-round, and the production team, which develops and carries out the day-to-day planning of the festival.
For more information about PrideFest, visit the website at: www.pridefest.com or pick up the 52-page issue of Quest’s Pride Guide available at over a hundred locations statewide or at the festival grounds.
Vaudeville Vamps Return to Madison
Madison - Described as “unapologetically out of sync with the times” and “tunefully disarming” by the Washington Post, The musical duo The Ditty Bops will once again bring their unique spin on live performance here June 17.The Ditty Bops will perform in concert
on
Wednesday, June 17 at 7:30 PM at the
Barrymore Theatre, 2090 Atwood Ave. If the line between Amanda Barrett and Abby DeWald’s personal relationship and artistic career does exist, it’s blurry at best. Romantically involved since the late 90s, Barrett and DeWald of The Ditty Bops first fused their creative musical talents together in 2004 with the release of their self-titled debut album. The Ditty Bops can’t help but find artistic beauty in all of life, an idea reflected not only in their partnership as musicians but also in their partnership with one another. After four successful years of sharing their artistic partnership with the world, the “Vaudeville Vamps” married in October 2008, confirming their commitment to each other and the art they live to create.
The darling duo put on a Vaudeville-esque performance complete with elaborate costumes, theatrical skits, and playful tunes as catchy as their name. Their irresistibly charming sound bounces from genre to genre, plucking out folk, swing, ragtime, and jazz inspired melodies on mandolins and ukuleles while layering simple vocal harmonies on top.
The forward-thinking females both share an intense passion for the environment and vigorously promote green living through example and their music. Hoping to inspire people to live a greener life, the Ditty Bops ditched the tour bus, strapped their guitars on their backs and biked across the country to promote their second album, “Moon Over the Freeway.” Further displaying their environmental activism, the group formed the environmental non-profit “You and I Save the World,” which helped pass America’s first plastic bag ban in San Francisco. The Ditty Bops incorporate their eco-friendliness directly into their music, passing out reusable bags at shows and creating vintage album covers with recycled paper and soy-based ink.
In 2008, The Ditty Bops toured through farming communities across the country, to bring attention the struggles and achievements of family farmers. Their tour raised money for sustainable farmers and culminated with a performance at Willie Nelson’s nonprofit concert Farm Aid.
With the release of their Grammy Award nominated album “Summer Rains, “The Ditty Bops continue to bewitch their listeners with iridescent golden harmonies, playful storytelling and a visionary lyrical world view. Their music has been described as genre-defying, bearing influence of Western Swing, Ragtime, Gypsy-Jazz, Pop, and Vaudeville-era Musical Theater. Teaming up again with Grammy-nominated producer Mitchell Froom (Suzanne Vega, Paul McCartney, Elvis Costello), The Ditty Bops have generated a work of whimsical invention and exceptional craftsmanship.
The Bops have been featured on Late Night with Conan O’Brian, The Late Late Show with Craig Fergusson, The L Word, Extra, NPR’s All Things Considered, and A Prairie Home Companion, and have toured with diverse performers including Tori Amos, Nickel Creek and Nancy Sinatra. Their music has also appeared on ABC’s Gray’s Anatomy, Men in Trees, and in numerous films and commercials.
Tickets for the Ditty Bops all ages concert are $16 in advance, $18 day of show. Tickets may be purchased by calling the Barrymore at: 608-241-8864 or online at the theater’s website: www.barrymorelive.com
Southeast Wisconsin LGBT Center Hosts Two June Art Exhibits
Racine - “Men for All Seasons” and “The Best of Friends,” two extraordinary exhibits unique to the LGBT Center of SE Wisconsin, will be on display at Center’s Art Gallery in June.
A whimsical and slightly naughty series drawn by Milwaukee artist Joe Simon, “Men for All Seasons” features large, full-color framed art of scantily clad, virile men posing or popping up in the most improbable places. As one viewer commented: “The art is scrumptious and all the men portrayed look good enough to eat!” Simon’s exhibit will be on display at the LGBT Center throughout June and July.
“The Best of Friends,” a collection of more than 50 vintage mid-19th century to early 20th century photographs, comprises cabinet cards, cartes de viste, and tintypes collected over the years by Dennis Harde that show loving poses between people of the same gender. “Not all affection between members of the same sex is sexual,” LGBT Center Director Bruce Joffe told Quest. “As prurient standards in American society changed over the years, it’s particularly interesting how unabashedly unequivocal people were over 100 years ago about public displays of same-gender relationships and affection.” This special collection also will be displayed for one day only, Saturday, June 20, at Uptown Racine’s Second Annual Festival and Open House Celebration.
The public is invited to visit and view these exhibits during the LGBT Center’s regular hours: Daily (except Tuesdays and Sundays) from 9 -11:00 AM and from 2 -4 PM. Saturdays, the LGBT Center and its Art Gallery are open from 10 AM until 2 PM. In addition, the LGBT Center will be open for visitors during Gallery Night. The Center is located at 1456 Junction Avenue, a half block off of Washington Avenue, in uptown Racine.
For more information, please visit the LGBT Center’s website at: www.lgbtsewisc.org or call the Center at: 262-664-4100.
“Milk” On The Menu At The Chippewa Valley LGBT Center
Eau Claire - “Saturday Night at the Movies”at the LGBT Center of the Chippewa Valley will feature the Academy Award-winning
film biography
Milk here June
20. “Milk” tells the story of San Francisco City Supervisor
Harvey Milk, the first openly gay elected official in the United
States. Sean Penn won an Oscar for his portrayal. The doors
will open at 7:15 PM and the “Milk” will spill on screen at 7:30.
Admission and popcorn are free. Beverages and movie snacks are also
available for purchase.The Center will also sponsor a bus trip to Twin Cities Pride. Community members who want to save the expense of gas and parking, relax and let a professional do the driving so they can relax and hang out with friends are encouraged to sign-up. The bus will begin loading at 8:30 AM on Sunday, June 28 with departure from Eau Claire at 8:45. The group will arrive in downtown Minneapolis just in time for the Ashley Rukes LGBT Pride Parade. After the parade, riders will be free to walk around downtown Minneapolis or the festival grounds in Loring Park. The bus will begin loading at 6 PM for its departure back to Eau Claire at 6:15.
The ticket price includes free parking in Eau Claire, the round trip ride,a continental breakfast, and a welcome gag filled with information and treats. Tickets are $15 for Community Center members and $20 for non-members. To register for the trip, email PrideBusRide@yahoo.com or call the Center at 715-552-LGBT to make reservations. Registration deadline is Tuesday, June 16.
Positive Voice Sets June Events
Appleton - Do you love to have fun? Do you love to hang with your friends? Do you love wearing someone else shoes? Join members of Positive Voice at the 10th Frame bowing lanes, 618 W Wisconsin Ave. here Sunday June 14 at 3 PM for an afternoon of bowling.
Positive Voice also will be gathering on Saturday, June 27 at 6:35 PM for the Wisconsin Timber Rattlers baseball battle with the Peoria Chiefs. In addition to the excitement on the diamond there will be a fireworks show following the game.
Tickets are $6.50 for reserved setting. Reservation deadline is June 15. Ticket orders for this family event should be made with Lynn Nash via email at: ljohnson@pvinc.org or by calling 715-850-0841.
“Last Bash” Benefits LaCrosse Pride
LaCrosse - The last event at Players Lounge here before the club moves to its new location will by a major fundraiser for LaCrosse Pride. Illusions Productions will present “the Last Bash” featuring entertainers Averi, Champagne, Cory, Holiday, Liza and Scotty.
Doors will open at 8 PM with show time at 9 PM. Tickets are $7 each. Reservations for the show are strongly suggested. Request “Players Last Bash” at illusionsreservations@yahoo.com.
5th Rainbow Community Picnic Planned For July 18
Milwaukee - The 5th Annual Rainbow Community Picnic and Potluck has been set for Saturday, July 18 from Noon to 4 PM at the green space behind the Washington Park Senior Center, 4420 W. Vliet Street here.
Lunch served about 1 PM. Sponsors will provide burgers, brats, veggie burgers, buns, condiments and utensils. Attendees are asked to bring a potluck item using the following formula: those whose last name begins with A-L are asked to bring a side dish such as potato salad, macaroni salad, etc. Those with last names beginning M-S are requested to provide a desserts - cake, pie, melons, fruit, or other sweet treat. Attendees with last names T-Z should bring snacks such as veggies and dip, chips, candy, or other kinds of appetizers. Each item should feed six or more people.
All attendees are strong encouraged to call the SAGE Office at 414-224-0517 to RSVP. Organizers need reservations in order to purchase main dish meat items.
This event is a project of the Rainbow Community Pot Luck Committee that includes the following organizations: the Milwaukee LGBT Community Center-Project Q, PFLAG, SAGE/Milwaukee, Lesbian Alliance, Black and White Men Together (BWMT), Milwaukee Metropolitan Community Church, the Brew City Bears and Plymouth Church.
Rain date for the picnic will be Sunday, July 19
Capitol Pride Announces 2009 Festival
Madison - Wisconsin Capitol Pride (WCP) is proud to announce that the 2009 Pride Festival will be held on Saturday, August 15 and Sunday, August 16 on Willow Island at the Alliant Energy Center.
The Pride Festival will celebrate the diverse LGBT community in Dane County and Greater Wisconsin and will feature various events ranging from live concerts, to contests and family-oriented activities. Wisconsin Capitol Pride has embarked on an aggressive $25,000 fundraising campaign to fund the event.
The 2009 Pride Festival, which will commence on Saturday, August 15 from 2 – 9 PM, will feature a performance by comedienne Vicki Shaw and other local acts. Admission will be $5.
The focal point of Sunday, August 16activities will be a pride parade, beginning at 1 PM that will circle Madison’s Capital Square, starting at Café Montmarte and ending at the corner of Pinckney St. and East Washington Avenue. The parade will be followed by a community picnic celebration at Willow Island at the Alliant Energy Center from 2 – 7 PM. Family friendly activities and performances by local groups and organizations will be the focus of the day’s events. Admission on Sunday will be free, however Wisconsin Capital Pride will be asking for donations.
Individuals and groups who are interested in participating in the 2009 Pride Festival by performing, donating, advertising, or vending may contact any member of the WCP board at the festival website: www.wisconsincapitolpride.org. Parade participants also may register online. Any questions about the parade should be directed by email to Derwin Leigh at: dleigh@wisconsincapitolpride.org.
For additional information about Wisconsin Capitol Pride or on the 2009 Pride Festival contact Co-Chairs Scott Willems at: swillems@wisconsincapitolpride.org or Maria Parker at: mparker@wisconsincapitolpride.org. Additional details about the festival will be made available shortly.
Diamond Divas To Open NAGAAAFest World Series
Milwaukee - The Opening Ceremonies of the NAGAAAFest Gay Softball World Series (GSWS) will take on Grammy and disco
ball glitter as legendary disco divas Thelma
Houston and Martha Wash will be joined by critically- acclaimed
Madonna back-up singer Niki Haris and renowned Tina Turner impersonator
Larry Edward in a show being billed by organizers at the “Diamond
Divas.”“Diamond Divas” will entertain at the Opening Ceremonies of NAGAAAFest on Monday, August 31 on the Briggs & Stratton stage of the Henry Maier “Summerfest” Grounds. The event is set to begin at 5:30 PM.
Grammy legend Thelma Houston will perform her #1 dance and pop hit “Don’t Leave Me This Way,” a song that some say defined the disco era. Houston will also sing several other classic R& B hits such as “Saturday Night Sunday Morning,” and offer a musical tribute to Motown, both part of her “very up beat” and electrifying show.
Houston has performed for over 41 years, recorded 22 albums, and won a Grammy. She recently headlined a show at the Hollywood Bowl with Niles Rogers and brought the capacity crowd of 18,000 people to their feet.
2009 finds Thelma busier than ever, with the recent release of her 22nd album called “A Woman’s Touch.” The new CD features classic songs originally recorded by men with songs such as, “Love and Happiness,” “Distant Lover,” “Brand New Day,” “Wake Up Everybody,” “Imagine,” “Try A Little Tenderness,” “By the Time I Get to Phoenix,” “Never Too Much,” “That’s The Way of the World,” and “Disco Heat/Mighty Real” - a tribute to her friend Sylvester.
Houston will share the stage with fellow diva legend Martha Wash. Martha’s signature vocals front some of the most recognizable pop and dance hits of the 80’s and 90’s. That’s Martha on The Weather Girls’ “It’s Raining Men,” and C & C Music Factory’s 6 million-selling “Gonna Make You Sweat (Everybody Dance Now)” plus Black Box’s “Everybody, Everybody,” and “Strike It Up.”
Wash is a notable star within the gay community and has continued to record new music into the 21st century including 2005’s sizzling hit “You Lift Me Up,” a fusion of gospel and house music, which was the first song produced on her own label, Purple Rose Records. Wash performed in the opening ceremony of the World’s first OutGames in Montreal in July 2006. She has also performed at numerous Human Rights Campaign events in the United States.
Martha also tore down the house in 2006 as a headliner at Milwaukee’s biggest annual party, PrideFest. In 2008 she appeared in June at the Chicago Gay Pride Street Fest and at Duluth-Superior Twin Ports Pride last August.
Also on the bill will be Niki Haris, someone who had been “in the shadow” (singing background) for the last 14 years from 1987 to 2001 to the super diva Madonna. What a lot of people don’t know is that Niki has a five octave voice, and has had several dance hits to her own credit.
Haris’ past hits with Junior Vasquez, and Jelly Bean include “What’s It Gonna Be,” “Do You Love As Good As You Look?.” Other songs “Dance Floor,” “Total Love,” “Do You See The Light?,” and her amazing dance version of the Al Green classic “Let’s Stay Together.”
Niki is also now performing two slammin’ new dance songs produced by DJ/remixer Eddie X: “Let Me Hear The Music” and “This Time Baby.” Haris could also be heard performing the song “Downtown” in the a Visa credit card commercial that aired nationally in 2007-8.
Haris’ vocal film work is also featured on the soundtracks of Corrina, Corrina, The Big Green, Noises Off, Coyote Ugly, and Anastasia. She has also recorded television themes, including co-writing and performing two songs for the Fox series Dark Angel. Haris also has released several jazz vocal albums including the critically acclaimed “Live In Switzerland.”
Rounding out the show is the amazing Tina Turner impersonator Larry Edwards. When he’s not bringing down the house in Las
Vegas as
his alter-ego “Hot Chocolate,” the acclaimed female illusionist is on
tour and also is also known for his impression of Patti LaBelle. Edwards’ talent has landed him on Oprah in 2008, and on the silver screen with Sandra Bullock in a featured role in “Miss Congeniality 2,” where he transformed from Larry to Tina on screen. Edwards’ proudest moment was his role in in the Academy Award nominated movie, “What’s Love Got To Do With It - The Tina Turner Story,” where he actually performed as his idol.
Edwards has appeared on A&E’s hit TV series MindFreak, VH1’s Flavor Of Love and ABC’s The Next Best Thing. Larry also has been a guest on such programs as The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, Entertainment Tonight, Donahue, The Leeza Show, Sally Jesse, and Howard Stern.
Ever serious about his art, Edwards was central in the 2008 documentary “Pageant” which made its debut at the Sundance Film Festival. “Pageant” features five top contestants who are competing in the Miss Gay America Pageant, a tiara Edwards won back in 1980.
Admission for the NAGAAAFest opening ceremonies and “Diamond Divas” show will be free to all GSWS softball players on the rosters (18) and the 2 designated non-players on each roster. Additional tickets will be available for sale to the general public and team supporters before and on the day of the event. More details will be forthcoming shortly. Those with Facebook accounts can keep up to date by joining the GSWS 2009 group on the social networking site. Information also is available at: www.series2009.org.
Feature:
Swinging Out With Swing Out SisterQuest Talks With SOS’ Charming Corrine Drewery About Their Smash New Album “Beautiful Mess”
Interview by Mike Fitzpatrick
It
seems almost impossible that Swing Out Sister’s signature tune
“Breakout” is nearly a quarter century old. A recurrent staple in 
multiple radio formats, the song’s light,
upbeat feel possesses a timelessness that mixes perfectly with recent
chart-topping hits by Maroon Five, Coldplay or the Scissor Sisters.
For fans old and new, SOS’ newest album “Beautiful Mess” has just been released in the United States. In addition to a tasty mix of new tunes that some dub “sophisti-pop,” the British duo also revisit the song that brought them their first worldwide success.
Quest news editor Mike Fitzpatrick had the opportunity to speak with Swing Out Sister’s lead vocalist Corrine Drewery on an overseas call the day after the album’s May 19 debut in this country. The wide-ranging interview tapped in on the new album, SOS’ upcoming U.S. tour and even Drewery’s volunteered thoughts on recent changes at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue.
Quest: Thank you for taking the time to speak with us today. 2009 has been a great year so far for lovers of classy popular music: In March we got a new album from Basia Trzetrzelewska and just a few weeks later a fresh release from Swing Out Sister - “Beautiful Mess.” Do you want to talk a little bit about it?
Corrine Drewery: Well, it’s our ninth studio album. “Beautiful Mess” is the first album that we completely produced ourselves, mainly Andy (Connell), with a bit of intervention from me. In the past we’ve worked with producers: we recorded our first album with Paul O’Duffy. We’ve had a long history of working with him. He’s great, like a third member of the band.
But nine albums down the line, we actually wanted to prove to ourselves that we’ve learned something along the way and we could produce our own album. It’s been quite different - from the writing to the production. It’s just Andy and myself.
When you know someone that well, sometime there’s a familiarity. “Beautiful Mess” is our first self-produced album. I think it’s a bit more up close and personal than some of the other albums we’ve made because it’s like a conversation between Andy and myself - a musical conversation.
Quest: You also seem to have some
wonderful inspirations in that conversation. I just love the song
“Butterfly,” but I could have sworn that when you were writing it you
were channeling Marvin Gaye.
Drewery: Oh well, he has been a great influence on our work in the past. That song we actually co-wrote with Gina Foster. She’s recorded with us several times. So that song has more of a feminine balance - two girls and one guy. In the past we’ve written quite a bit with Paul O’Duffy. So its got a different kind of feel to it.
Quest: You also did an instrumental version of it which is completely re-imagining of the same piece. It was fascinating to listen to. I mentioned Marvin Gaye because I just keep hearing little hints of the “What’s Goin On,” “Inner City Blues” period of his creativity.
Drewery: That was a great year for (Gaye) and for his music. I think there are people whose influences have been with us right from the start. We’ve learned a lot from listening to other people’s music.
Quest: Who are some of those key influences? I believe you’ve mentioned Dusty Springfield in past interviews.
Drewery: Oh I think I wanted to be her when I was growing up - along with a handful of others. People like Lulu, Sandie Shaw, Shirley Bassey: the people I was surrounded by in the Sixties - all those divas. Though I don’t think that “diva” is quite the right word for them because they were down to Earth. They were British and really quite humble.
And we had the Beatles and the Rolling Stones and all the kind of beat groups: the Seekers and the Springfields before Dusty actually went solo. Then along came Mama Cass and the Mamas and The Papas, and the Association, Sonny & Cher and then Diana Ross & the Supremes. A whole load of American music suddenly came during that time.
I think its very difficult to pinpoint any one singer that’s been a major influence because it was a great time to be growing up. In the Sixties where you were surrounded by music. It was a golden era. There was a progression from more classical music to more popular, accessible music. There were a lot of classical influences in those little pocket symphonies as they called them - I think it was Brian Wilson (who said that).
It was a transient time.They were learning about how to make pop record and they were putting everything but the kitchen sink in there. We benefitted from that and were inspired by it.
Quest: There’s been a lot of reviews that have pegged your music as “ultimately commercial,” but I like the word that you used: “accessible.” I think that’s what makes your music so enjoyable.
Drewery: Well we make music to be heard by people who are going to enjoy it. I suppose sometimes it’s more accessible than others.
Quest: Last night I spent some time going through the videos that you’ve put up online (at www.swingoutsister.com). I was blown away by the “Shoo-Be-Doo” video that you put up from a concert in Japan. That’s what makes seeing you live so exciting.
Drewery: We take as much pride in putting together a live show as we do making a record. As we tour, the shows evolve and the songs evolve. We kind of re-arrange stuff and things just grow as we tour. I think your could come to one show at the beginning of the tour and one show at the end of the tour and it could be completely different. We like to keep a few surprises up our sleeve.
Quest: It sounds like you enjoy doing the shows as much as the people who come to experience those one-of-a-kind performances.
Drewery: Yes, and I think its because we don’t overdo it. We keep it quite small and intimate, so it’s possible to change something if we want to change it. It’s an interesting way to take the songs on the road.
Quest: I also see that you’ve also put up a number of your fans’ remixes of your songs. That’s kind of gutsy. Most artists are very protective of their music. How do you feel other folks re-interpreting your work to make it more accessible to different audiences?
Drewery: I don’t know. I suppose why complain if it reaches more people, but at the same time that wasn’t what we really intended the song to be. We spent hours in the studio honing and perfecting a song when we originally record it. In a way we are creating our own remixes when we go on the road and re-interpret the songs live.
Quest: So what is the first single out commercially off the album?
Drewery: Well, I’m not too sure how things work these days. It’s very confusing to me, having grown up with albums and singles. Now there’s downloads. The whole album’s available and “Butterfly” has been the song that people have picked up on. So, you know, you’ve got an ear.
Quest: Well I enjoyed them all but “Butterfly” was the song that blew me away on the first listen. But you’ve also done something special for the fans by putting out a new version of that classic hit, a song which I’m sure you’ve sung millions of times by now.
Drewery: You’re obviously talking about “Breakout.” Well that song is the song that opened many doors for us. It kind of our passport worldwide. It was great to interpret it in different way. It’s a joyous song. It makes me happy to perform it even now. We never grow tired of it and we like to re-interpret it in different ways.
Quest: Well its a wonderfully smoky, late night - as you call it - version (on “Beautiful Mess”). It brings up the whole idea that Swing Out Sister has been consistently been tabbed as a jazz pop group.
Drewery: I think the jazz influences have been there right from the start. But you can’t be jazz and pop, because it’s almost contradictory in some way. As we have matured, maybe we have transformed more into the jazz category.
Quest: Speaking of transformations, how has the Internet changed the making of music and the marketing of music in your view?
Drewery: I think its put the emphasis onto live performances more. All of the stuff that you can do without without seeing or speaking to anyone, without any visuals - album sleeves or artwork - maybe the Internet has made people have to prove that they are real by going out and performing live. The balance has changed from recording to performing.
Quest: Speaking of performing, you have a U. S. tour coming up, correct? Do you know the dates?
Drewery: We’re starting off in San Francisco on the third of June, performing at Bimbo’s. We’re in Los Angeles on the fourth. Then there’s the Capitol Jazz Fest between Washington (D.C.) and Baltimore on the sixth. We’ll be in Philadelphia on the seventh and in New York on the eighth.
Quest: So you’re going to be doing a bicoastal tour. Is there any chance you’re going to be hitting the Midwest any time in the near future?
Drewery: Not on this tour. But if this tour goes successfully and we’re invited back, then hopefully we can go a bit further afield. I’m always keen to explore and discover new places and I haven’t been to Wisconsin before. It would be great to include it on a future tour. It’s a big place, America. So we have to do it in little groups at a time.
Quest: Well I hope you have a lot of success with this great new album, “Beautiful Mess.” I know Quest will do its small bit to promote it to what others describe as your “cult following,” the gay and lesbian community here in the States.
Drewery: Well American has been very good to us in the past. We’ve done a lot of touring and I think we’ve got quite a following over there. We haven’t spent as much time the past few years as we would have liked to but I’m looking forward to coming to America much more now that you have a new President. (chuckles)
Quest: (laughs) Oh, you didn’t like our old one?
Drewery: Well you know I don’t have to go into too much detail but I’m so happy you have a brand new President. I wish Barack Obama and his family well. Hopefully he will have a very successful term. I don’t know, but he seems to have changed the face of America to me.
Quest: Well I think here, there really is a sense that “our long national nightmare is over,” to quote another American President.
Drewery: Yeah, I think that America is really a lot more optimistic now. We’re certainly more interested in coming and touring in America right now. The whole perception of America has changed in the eyes of the world. It seems like there’s a weight lifted off of your shoulders. Maybe I’m imagining things, but I’ll find out when we get there.
Quest: I think that’s true as well, and perhaps it’s time for there to be a pop-jazz sound for our national soundtrack, rather than - say - a redneck, country-western feel.
Drewery: Yes! This whole century is going to be about a shifting of balance. The are going to be changes because “that’s the way of the world,” to quote another great band (Earth, Wind and Fire).
Quest: Thank you so much for your time, Corrine.
multiple radio formats, the song’s light,
upbeat feel possesses a timelessness that mixes perfectly with recent
chart-topping hits by Maroon Five, Coldplay or the Scissor Sisters.For fans old and new, SOS’ newest album “Beautiful Mess” has just been released in the United States. In addition to a tasty mix of new tunes that some dub “sophisti-pop,” the British duo also revisit the song that brought them their first worldwide success.
Quest news editor Mike Fitzpatrick had the opportunity to speak with Swing Out Sister’s lead vocalist Corrine Drewery on an overseas call the day after the album’s May 19 debut in this country. The wide-ranging interview tapped in on the new album, SOS’ upcoming U.S. tour and even Drewery’s volunteered thoughts on recent changes at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue.
Quest: Thank you for taking the time to speak with us today. 2009 has been a great year so far for lovers of classy popular music: In March we got a new album from Basia Trzetrzelewska and just a few weeks later a fresh release from Swing Out Sister - “Beautiful Mess.” Do you want to talk a little bit about it?
Corrine Drewery: Well, it’s our ninth studio album. “Beautiful Mess” is the first album that we completely produced ourselves, mainly Andy (Connell), with a bit of intervention from me. In the past we’ve worked with producers: we recorded our first album with Paul O’Duffy. We’ve had a long history of working with him. He’s great, like a third member of the band.
But nine albums down the line, we actually wanted to prove to ourselves that we’ve learned something along the way and we could produce our own album. It’s been quite different - from the writing to the production. It’s just Andy and myself.
When you know someone that well, sometime there’s a familiarity. “Beautiful Mess” is our first self-produced album. I think it’s a bit more up close and personal than some of the other albums we’ve made because it’s like a conversation between Andy and myself - a musical conversation.
Quest: You also seem to have some
wonderful inspirations in that conversation. I just love the song
“Butterfly,” but I could have sworn that when you were writing it you
were channeling Marvin Gaye.Drewery: Oh well, he has been a great influence on our work in the past. That song we actually co-wrote with Gina Foster. She’s recorded with us several times. So that song has more of a feminine balance - two girls and one guy. In the past we’ve written quite a bit with Paul O’Duffy. So its got a different kind of feel to it.
Quest: You also did an instrumental version of it which is completely re-imagining of the same piece. It was fascinating to listen to. I mentioned Marvin Gaye because I just keep hearing little hints of the “What’s Goin On,” “Inner City Blues” period of his creativity.
Drewery: That was a great year for (Gaye) and for his music. I think there are people whose influences have been with us right from the start. We’ve learned a lot from listening to other people’s music.
Quest: Who are some of those key influences? I believe you’ve mentioned Dusty Springfield in past interviews.
Drewery: Oh I think I wanted to be her when I was growing up - along with a handful of others. People like Lulu, Sandie Shaw, Shirley Bassey: the people I was surrounded by in the Sixties - all those divas. Though I don’t think that “diva” is quite the right word for them because they were down to Earth. They were British and really quite humble.
And we had the Beatles and the Rolling Stones and all the kind of beat groups: the Seekers and the Springfields before Dusty actually went solo. Then along came Mama Cass and the Mamas and The Papas, and the Association, Sonny & Cher and then Diana Ross & the Supremes. A whole load of American music suddenly came during that time.
I think its very difficult to pinpoint any one singer that’s been a major influence because it was a great time to be growing up. In the Sixties where you were surrounded by music. It was a golden era. There was a progression from more classical music to more popular, accessible music. There were a lot of classical influences in those little pocket symphonies as they called them - I think it was Brian Wilson (who said that).
It was a transient time.They were learning about how to make pop record and they were putting everything but the kitchen sink in there. We benefitted from that and were inspired by it.
Quest: There’s been a lot of reviews that have pegged your music as “ultimately commercial,” but I like the word that you used: “accessible.” I think that’s what makes your music so enjoyable.
Drewery: Well we make music to be heard by people who are going to enjoy it. I suppose sometimes it’s more accessible than others.
Quest: Last night I spent some time going through the videos that you’ve put up online (at www.swingoutsister.com). I was blown away by the “Shoo-Be-Doo” video that you put up from a concert in Japan. That’s what makes seeing you live so exciting.
Drewery: We take as much pride in putting together a live show as we do making a record. As we tour, the shows evolve and the songs evolve. We kind of re-arrange stuff and things just grow as we tour. I think your could come to one show at the beginning of the tour and one show at the end of the tour and it could be completely different. We like to keep a few surprises up our sleeve.
Quest: It sounds like you enjoy doing the shows as much as the people who come to experience those one-of-a-kind performances.
Drewery: Yes, and I think its because we don’t overdo it. We keep it quite small and intimate, so it’s possible to change something if we want to change it. It’s an interesting way to take the songs on the road.
Quest: I also see that you’ve also put up a number of your fans’ remixes of your songs. That’s kind of gutsy. Most artists are very protective of their music. How do you feel other folks re-interpreting your work to make it more accessible to different audiences?
Drewery: I don’t know. I suppose why complain if it reaches more people, but at the same time that wasn’t what we really intended the song to be. We spent hours in the studio honing and perfecting a song when we originally record it. In a way we are creating our own remixes when we go on the road and re-interpret the songs live.
Quest: So what is the first single out commercially off the album?
Drewery: Well, I’m not too sure how things work these days. It’s very confusing to me, having grown up with albums and singles. Now there’s downloads. The whole album’s available and “Butterfly” has been the song that people have picked up on. So, you know, you’ve got an ear.
Quest: Well I enjoyed them all but “Butterfly” was the song that blew me away on the first listen. But you’ve also done something special for the fans by putting out a new version of that classic hit, a song which I’m sure you’ve sung millions of times by now.
Drewery: You’re obviously talking about “Breakout.” Well that song is the song that opened many doors for us. It kind of our passport worldwide. It was great to interpret it in different way. It’s a joyous song. It makes me happy to perform it even now. We never grow tired of it and we like to re-interpret it in different ways.
Quest: Well its a wonderfully smoky, late night - as you call it - version (on “Beautiful Mess”). It brings up the whole idea that Swing Out Sister has been consistently been tabbed as a jazz pop group.
Drewery: I think the jazz influences have been there right from the start. But you can’t be jazz and pop, because it’s almost contradictory in some way. As we have matured, maybe we have transformed more into the jazz category.
Quest: Speaking of transformations, how has the Internet changed the making of music and the marketing of music in your view?
Drewery: I think its put the emphasis onto live performances more. All of the stuff that you can do without without seeing or speaking to anyone, without any visuals - album sleeves or artwork - maybe the Internet has made people have to prove that they are real by going out and performing live. The balance has changed from recording to performing.
Quest: Speaking of performing, you have a U. S. tour coming up, correct? Do you know the dates?
Drewery: We’re starting off in San Francisco on the third of June, performing at Bimbo’s. We’re in Los Angeles on the fourth. Then there’s the Capitol Jazz Fest between Washington (D.C.) and Baltimore on the sixth. We’ll be in Philadelphia on the seventh and in New York on the eighth.
Quest: So you’re going to be doing a bicoastal tour. Is there any chance you’re going to be hitting the Midwest any time in the near future?
Drewery: Not on this tour. But if this tour goes successfully and we’re invited back, then hopefully we can go a bit further afield. I’m always keen to explore and discover new places and I haven’t been to Wisconsin before. It would be great to include it on a future tour. It’s a big place, America. So we have to do it in little groups at a time.
Quest: Well I hope you have a lot of success with this great new album, “Beautiful Mess.” I know Quest will do its small bit to promote it to what others describe as your “cult following,” the gay and lesbian community here in the States.
Drewery: Well American has been very good to us in the past. We’ve done a lot of touring and I think we’ve got quite a following over there. We haven’t spent as much time the past few years as we would have liked to but I’m looking forward to coming to America much more now that you have a new President. (chuckles)
Quest: (laughs) Oh, you didn’t like our old one?
Drewery: Well you know I don’t have to go into too much detail but I’m so happy you have a brand new President. I wish Barack Obama and his family well. Hopefully he will have a very successful term. I don’t know, but he seems to have changed the face of America to me.
Quest: Well I think here, there really is a sense that “our long national nightmare is over,” to quote another American President.
Drewery: Yeah, I think that America is really a lot more optimistic now. We’re certainly more interested in coming and touring in America right now. The whole perception of America has changed in the eyes of the world. It seems like there’s a weight lifted off of your shoulders. Maybe I’m imagining things, but I’ll find out when we get there.
Quest: I think that’s true as well, and perhaps it’s time for there to be a pop-jazz sound for our national soundtrack, rather than - say - a redneck, country-western feel.
Drewery: Yes! This whole century is going to be about a shifting of balance. The are going to be changes because “that’s the way of the world,” to quote another great band (Earth, Wind and Fire).
Quest: Thank you so much for your time, Corrine.
Drewery: Thanks to you also, it was great talking with you.
History:
Stonewall 40: Milwaukee Gay Life In The
1960s & 70s
By Don Schwamb
As the largest city in the state, Milwaukee’s gay bar history goes back further than that in other Wisconsin cities. While Madison could be considered a serious contender at many times for gay bar and organizational activity due to the liberal college crowd there, Milwaukee was large enough to make gay men slightly more open - safety in numbers - and provide more opportunities for finding ways to meet other men.
Due to the comparatively large number of bars and other ways for gay men to meet in Milwaukee, this discussion is split in two articles. This first article will look at what were largely regarded as “gay bars” in the city in the 1960s and 1970s. The next article in the June 9 issue of Quest will look at other ways to meet other gay men in Milwaukee:”cruise” opportunities, non-bar businesses that were gay hangouts, and the development of “gay” organizations in Milwaukee. As with other articles in this series, the major source for much of this information is listings in national gay men’s travel guides, plus the publication GPU News, which began publishing in 1971.
Up until the 1960s, gay life, even in Milwaukee, was hidden and in the underground. Many gay men met each other only by careful observation for gay traits in others, and socialized only at private houses or relatively secretive gathering places, often back rooms or slow periods of otherwise straight-identified bars or restaurants. There is some body of thought that some “queeny” behavior was necessary at that time, simply as a way to identify others like yourself - a need which has certainly declined in the past 40 years as other methods of meeting like people become accepted.
After years in the underground, the 1960s saw the beginnings of a vibrant and active gay life in Milwaukee, even before Stonewall. Milwaukee was notable in having, by far, the earliest acknowledged gay bar in the state. The Mint bar, at 422 W. State Street, opened in 1949, and was open in that same location until 1986, when it was razed to make room for the Bradley Center. There were literally dozens of bars known as gay bars or hangouts pre-Stonewall in Milwaukee: at least 30 by conservative count, and too numerous to list individually here. But just those indicated in the first two years of national bar guides (1962 and 1963) is a remarkable list: Mint Bar, 422 W. State St.; Riviera Cocktail Lounge, 401 N. Plankinton Ave.; The Columns, in Hotel Phister, 424 E. Wisconsin Ave.; Bourbon Beat, 400 N. Plankinton Ave.; Bridgeport, 3762 N. Green Bay Ave.; Fox Bar, 455 N. Plankinton Ave.; Castaways, 424 W. McKinley St.; Belmont Hotel Coffee Shop, 751 N. 4th St.; The Forum, 1801 N. 12th St.; Royal Hotel Bar, 435 W. Michigan Ave., Seaway Inn Restaurant and Bar, 744 N. Jefferson Ave.; Antler’s Hotel Bar (in the Wisconsin Hotel), 616 N. 2nd St. and Black Night, 400 N. Plankinton Ave.
These were not necessarily exclusively or even primarily gay-identified businesses. While some were recognized as primarily gay, many were simply popular hangouts for gay men. The openness of gay life in Milwaukee is evidenced by just the number of bars listed in consecutive years’ issues of gay travel guides: In 1962, 12 bars were listed. Two year later there were 20.
Icons of pre-Stonewall bars in Milwaukee include: Royal Hotel Bar, 546 E. Michigan- known variously as Club 546, Michelle’s and the Stud Club (1964-73); Your Place, 813 S. 1st St. (1965-95); Castaways South - later to become The Ballgame, 196 S. 2nd St. (1966-71); This Is It, 418 E. Wells St. (1968-present) and Ten Hundred East, 1000 E. North Ave. (1968-83).
The riots in and around the Stonewall Bar in New York were to open the door for many gay men and women to be even more open, and many of the Milwaukee gay bars open at the time became icons. Such gay bar icons as the following opened up in Milwaukee post-Stonewall: Beer Garden, 3743 W. Vliet St. (1971-89); Wreck Room, 266 E. Erie St. (1972-96); Cafe Melange, 720 N. Old World Third St. (1974-94) and the M&M Club, 124 N. Water St. (1976-2006).
More details about many of the above bars, a complete listings of known gay and lesbian bars throughout Wisconsin, and view the actual national gay guides referenced are available at the Wisconsin Gay History Project website at: www.wisconsingayhistory.org
The project welcomes photographs and personal recollections about any bars, businesses, or groups known to exist anywhere in the state before 1975. We need and welcome your support! Contact the project at: webmaster@mkelgbthist.org
Milwaukee’s history of gay and lesbian life in the 1960s and beyond will again be documented in a History Project exhibit at PrideFest in Milwaukee, on June 12-14. Part of the exhibit will offer large maps showing locations of bars and gay life each decade, and view an interactive time line, where visitors can add their own notes as well.
Editor’s Note: This is the third in a series of articles which together comprise The Stonewall 40 Project, documenting what gay and lesbian life was like in Wisconsin at and just after the time of the Stonewall riots. For more detailed informtion and numerous vintage photos and other memorabilia, visit project displays at Milwaukee’s PrideFest June 12-14 and other pride celebrations statewide during 2009. Those unable to make it in person may also visit the project website at: www.wisconsingayhistory.org.
By Don Schwamb
As the largest city in the state, Milwaukee’s gay bar history goes back further than that in other Wisconsin cities. While Madison could be considered a serious contender at many times for gay bar and organizational activity due to the liberal college crowd there, Milwaukee was large enough to make gay men slightly more open - safety in numbers - and provide more opportunities for finding ways to meet other men.
Due to the comparatively large number of bars and other ways for gay men to meet in Milwaukee, this discussion is split in two articles. This first article will look at what were largely regarded as “gay bars” in the city in the 1960s and 1970s. The next article in the June 9 issue of Quest will look at other ways to meet other gay men in Milwaukee:”cruise” opportunities, non-bar businesses that were gay hangouts, and the development of “gay” organizations in Milwaukee. As with other articles in this series, the major source for much of this information is listings in national gay men’s travel guides, plus the publication GPU News, which began publishing in 1971.
Up until the 1960s, gay life, even in Milwaukee, was hidden and in the underground. Many gay men met each other only by careful observation for gay traits in others, and socialized only at private houses or relatively secretive gathering places, often back rooms or slow periods of otherwise straight-identified bars or restaurants. There is some body of thought that some “queeny” behavior was necessary at that time, simply as a way to identify others like yourself - a need which has certainly declined in the past 40 years as other methods of meeting like people become accepted.
After years in the underground, the 1960s saw the beginnings of a vibrant and active gay life in Milwaukee, even before Stonewall. Milwaukee was notable in having, by far, the earliest acknowledged gay bar in the state. The Mint bar, at 422 W. State Street, opened in 1949, and was open in that same location until 1986, when it was razed to make room for the Bradley Center. There were literally dozens of bars known as gay bars or hangouts pre-Stonewall in Milwaukee: at least 30 by conservative count, and too numerous to list individually here. But just those indicated in the first two years of national bar guides (1962 and 1963) is a remarkable list: Mint Bar, 422 W. State St.; Riviera Cocktail Lounge, 401 N. Plankinton Ave.; The Columns, in Hotel Phister, 424 E. Wisconsin Ave.; Bourbon Beat, 400 N. Plankinton Ave.; Bridgeport, 3762 N. Green Bay Ave.; Fox Bar, 455 N. Plankinton Ave.; Castaways, 424 W. McKinley St.; Belmont Hotel Coffee Shop, 751 N. 4th St.; The Forum, 1801 N. 12th St.; Royal Hotel Bar, 435 W. Michigan Ave., Seaway Inn Restaurant and Bar, 744 N. Jefferson Ave.; Antler’s Hotel Bar (in the Wisconsin Hotel), 616 N. 2nd St. and Black Night, 400 N. Plankinton Ave.
These were not necessarily exclusively or even primarily gay-identified businesses. While some were recognized as primarily gay, many were simply popular hangouts for gay men. The openness of gay life in Milwaukee is evidenced by just the number of bars listed in consecutive years’ issues of gay travel guides: In 1962, 12 bars were listed. Two year later there were 20.
Icons of pre-Stonewall bars in Milwaukee include: Royal Hotel Bar, 546 E. Michigan- known variously as Club 546, Michelle’s and the Stud Club (1964-73); Your Place, 813 S. 1st St. (1965-95); Castaways South - later to become The Ballgame, 196 S. 2nd St. (1966-71); This Is It, 418 E. Wells St. (1968-present) and Ten Hundred East, 1000 E. North Ave. (1968-83).
The riots in and around the Stonewall Bar in New York were to open the door for many gay men and women to be even more open, and many of the Milwaukee gay bars open at the time became icons. Such gay bar icons as the following opened up in Milwaukee post-Stonewall: Beer Garden, 3743 W. Vliet St. (1971-89); Wreck Room, 266 E. Erie St. (1972-96); Cafe Melange, 720 N. Old World Third St. (1974-94) and the M&M Club, 124 N. Water St. (1976-2006).
More details about many of the above bars, a complete listings of known gay and lesbian bars throughout Wisconsin, and view the actual national gay guides referenced are available at the Wisconsin Gay History Project website at: www.wisconsingayhistory.org
The project welcomes photographs and personal recollections about any bars, businesses, or groups known to exist anywhere in the state before 1975. We need and welcome your support! Contact the project at: webmaster@mkelgbthist.org
Milwaukee’s history of gay and lesbian life in the 1960s and beyond will again be documented in a History Project exhibit at PrideFest in Milwaukee, on June 12-14. Part of the exhibit will offer large maps showing locations of bars and gay life each decade, and view an interactive time line, where visitors can add their own notes as well.
Editor’s Note: This is the third in a series of articles which together comprise The Stonewall 40 Project, documenting what gay and lesbian life was like in Wisconsin at and just after the time of the Stonewall riots. For more detailed informtion and numerous vintage photos and other memorabilia, visit project displays at Milwaukee’s PrideFest June 12-14 and other pride celebrations statewide during 2009. Those unable to make it in person may also visit the project website at: www.wisconsingayhistory.org.