Where does an actress come from that can guide us through performance to the promised land of self comprehension and acceptance? South Carolina of course! Myrtle Beach…it’s not just for grandparents anymore! Rather it is where a well educated, polished storyteller began her life. Hendrix is now settled in the colony of Providence, RI, where she sharpens her performance artistry. I had the chance to ask Hendrix a few questions recently.

Me: I know this piece began in college and has been recently “polished”, but why did you feel it was something you had to continue to develop?

Hendrix: The piece was a graduate project while I was studying at Emerson College, but I began developing the character of Butchy McDyke and imagining ways to tell my story outside of the university setting. I felt like I was being told there was only one way to talk about being a lesbian, that there was this prescription for how to look, what music to listen to, what kinds of friends to have, what your history must look like. And I am a performer; I am a storyteller, so I made a show that challenges some of those prescriptions. It’s mine.

Me: Who are you speaking to with this performance and what emotions are you trying to conjure?

Hendrix: I am speaking to anyone who wants to listen, really. It isn’t a show only for dykes and in fact it is only recently that my audiences have even had more than one or two lesbians! I want people first of all to have a good time, to laugh and be swept up in the story and be a part of the show. I want people to find the places they connect to the story, recognize the ways their experience of the world is different. It’s pretty personal, but it’s not sappy or heavy – it’s silly and fun but earnest too.

Me: Are you trying to provoke dialogue and if so what are you hoping people are talking about? What have you heard people discuss after seeing your show?

Hendrix: I would love for people to talk about new things, ask questions of me or of one another, of themselves. I’ve gotten a lot of questions about the “truth” of the personal stuff in the show, if those are things that really happened, and I have certainly had people talk about the ways they connected unexpectedly to a story really different from their own.

Me: So, your character Butchy McDyke, is she single? What kind of places does Butchy hang out at? Do you think Butchy would have a chance against CLLAW reigning champion ARMMEGEDON in a foot race or hot dog eating contest?

Hendrix: Butchy McDyke is married to the job of being a motivational speaker and expert lesbian – she can’t commit to one lady because she is committed to helping all lesbians be the best lesbians they can be. She likes to hang out in lady-owned coffee shop slash bookstores and karaoke bars, always looking out for a talented partner to harmonize on “Closer to Fine.” Butchy is pretty competitive and would totally be in it to win it against ARMeggedon in a foot race but the hotdogs would need to be vegetarian – she’s a dyke after all.

I know one thing, Butchy McDyke, I wanna be a lady with a lot more lady in my life and I think you can help me… this show seems to be right up my alley and most likely hits home for you, too. So, I hope to see each and every one of you out at Mary’s Attic (5400 N Clark, upstairs from Hamburger Mary’s, look for the big purple door on Clark just North of Mary’s main entrance )on February 23rd at 8pm. Tickets are $10, let them know that you heard about the show from The L Stop you’ll get in for $8. Mary’s home brews are $4 and DJ Catnip is spinning after the show until 2am! Check out http://www.howtobealesbianin10daysorless.com for more information.

How To Be A Lesbian in 10 Days or Less Trailer from Leigh Hendrix on Vimeo.

You May Also Like:

• Get a Reality Check This Thursday at Berlin
• Salonathon
• Valentine’s Day Comedy Show

Back to blog

Every year she brings the party to Berlin night club and this year is no exception. Whitney Mixter of Showtime’s The Real L Word series, will be hosting the night’s festivities which includes DJs Zebo & The Emports and a very special debut performance from rising electronic act, ShutEye.

Those of you who can get your asses in gear and get to the club early will be treated by the birthday girl to some beer and champagne. I will be there early because I really like free beer and because I am an old lady who needs her beauty sleep. Make sure you RSVP on Do312 for free admission before 11pm.

You May Also Like:

• Salonathon
• Valentine’s Day Comedy Show
• Why we are accepting the cutest heteros – and why you should too

Back to blog

“Back to my question please?” Dana redirects.

Alice informs, “OK, Trimming is essential. You know, just do it a few days before you get laid. Assuming you ever do.” (Dana glares at Alice)

“Whatever you do, you have to deal with it. Otherwise you’ll never have Bush Confidence. If you don’t have Bush Confidence, you’ll never feel good about your bush, and you’ll never get laid,” Tina advises.

“So get over it,” Alice reiterates.

Moving to Chicago from Ohio was a shock for several reasons. While the winters are freezing and the taxi drivers are insane the biggest thing that struck me was so many ladies on the 3rd coast are getting rid of their hair. Now I speak purely as a connoisseur and love of variety, but seriously where has all the hair gone? Trimming is necessary, you always want to frame the goods you’re presenting, but whatever happened to women looking like women. After all I don’t look like a little girl anymore.

Perplexed, I asked the native Chicagoan GF if she knew why all the Chicago lesbians were going Brazilian. “I don’t know. I just figured all lesbians did it,” she casually replied. “Plus I prefer it,” she punctuated.
(Record Scratches in my head)
Suddenly for the first time I became a little self-conscious about my dark red carpeting. So onto the waxing table I jumped, convincing myself that after all, I’ll try anything once. Plus, everyone says it’s better than shaving.

I had no idea what I was getting myself into. Reflecting, I have to say that there is something oddly masochistic about most beauty maintenance. No woman can tell me that they voluntarily go through this process because they like it. I can understand, if out of consideration for your partner’s preference, choosing to wax, but if you are single why on earth would anyone go for a wax? I think as a community of women we need to collectively “Just say no” to this waxing business.

I went to Sonia’s because it was conveniently located in Andersonville and Sonia’s gives full Brazilians for $30 (which is a good deal for Chi town). The service is great, but there is nothing quite as awkward as trying to hold a conversation with a woman who is waxing your cooch.
“What do you do for a living?” <Rip>
<Whimper>”Oh..I’m a Social Worker.”
“Do you have to have a degree for that?” <RIP!>
<Whimper> <Tears> <deep Breath>”At least a Bachelors, but a Masters if you want to be a counselor.”
“Are you going somewhere for vacation?”
“Nope just hanging around.”
“New Boyfriend?” <Riiiiiipppppp>
<YELP!> “Girlfriend.”
“That’s pretty common these days.” <Riiiippppp!>
<Oh God!><tears><Tilts head> “I guess you could say that. <awkward pause> I’m really lucky my family is really supportive and they love Andrea.”
<Riiiip> “You have a big family?”
<Tears> <Deep Breath> “Yes, I’m one of four girls.”
<Riiiiiiiiiiipppp> “That’s why you’re gay, you’re used to being around all those women,” Sonia concluded.

<Tears, with a chuckle> “I never thought of that, maybe.”(Considers the possibility of my sister’s contribution to my sexuality, but shakes at the thought, too Freudian for me).

Maybe it’s just me but I think that women look better with a nice confident trimmed bush. Whatever the type you have it’s beautiful in all the different textures and colors. Changing it up with different shapes can be fun (and a fun surprise for your partner) but don’t just assume that every lady prefers hard wood floors over soft cozy carpeting. Ultimately, you should always do what makes YOU feel confident as a woman, even if that means waxing. Otherwise, you’ll never have BUSH CONFIDENCE

TIPS and Tricks:

To soften try using a small amount of conditioner when you shower, just make sure to put on the outside to avoid irritation.

Trim periodically with scissors and a razor along the bikini line a few days before the Big Show.

Shave in the same direction as the hair growth and lotion afterwards to reduce razor burn.

Consider the possibilities:

Full Brazilian: Completely bare skinned, brrrrr!

Bikini: Cleaning up the edges just inside the swimsuit line

Landing Strip (Confusingly referred sometimes as simply Brazilian): Half inch patch of hair from top to

Heart: For those romantic types, another way to celebrate Valentine’s Day.

The Triangle: Typically this refers to butt waxing and cleaning up around the edges. But, I have seen bottom salons take this quite literally waxing the lips and front to form an actual triangle.

The L Stop got the inside look at Salonathon through Jane Beachy, producer.

The L Stop: How long has Salonathon been running?

Jane Beachy : The first Salonathon was July 18th, so about 6 months.

The L Stop: What inspired the beginning of Salonathon?

Jane Beachy: This is a format that’s captivated me for many years. I hosted a monthly salon in my basement in Seattle in the early 2000s and then did the same in Kansas City and Brooklyn when I lived there. Since moving to Chicago, I’ve been experimenting with different environments, and Beauty Bar has been a great home. I’ve really enjoyed seeing some of the folks who put on puppet plays and created ridiculous songs and the like over the years go on to really exciting careers as artists. It’s just so great to be in an environment of unbridled creativity. You never know what might come of the things people are trying out!

The L Stop: Did you begin as a solo producer, or were you always working with a group? If so, who helped you pull this together?

Jane Beachy: I’ve mostly produced solo, but the best thing about producing is that you’re never truly working alone. It’s all about bringing together the most interesting, talented & vibrant people you can find and convince to go along with your crazy plan. Salonathon in particular came about because I do some management & booking for local “queer electro fuck” band DAAN. I got them a spot as the opener for Diamond Rings at The Empty Bottle and they were a tremendous hit. Pete Toalson, one of The Bottle and Beauty Bar’s owners, was kind enough to meet with me at the time and he offered me Monday nights. It really was a wonderful opportunity, and I’m so grateful to all the staff at Beauty Bar for being open to trying it out. That same week, lo and behold, I got an email from a woman named Kelly Kerwin who was interested in getting some more experience curating events, and she came on to help me with the series. I’ll never know how I got so lucky for her to just emerge from the ether at that moment!

The L Stop: The Salonathons I’ve seen have a wide variety of talent. How do you find so many amazing artists for a weekly revue?

Jane Beachy: I love to meet people, so that helps. I’m always on the lookout for interesting work. But more and more I also realize how important it is to be on the lookout for really great “connector” people and people who are involved in scenes with which I might not be as familiar. It’s amazing how fast that expands the possibilities. I realized pretty early on that it would start to get boring if I just programmed every single week with the folks I already know. This is why I put different hosts/curators in place for each week. I curate & program one night a month, Kelly Kerwin curates the Applied Studies Showcase once a month, Chicago Underground Film Festival curates once a month, Trandroid curates Shits & Giggles once every other month, and then there are guest curators like DAAN and Big Dipper.

www.reidcompton.com

The L Stop: Why did you choose the Beauty Bar?

Jane Beachy: Really, because Pete suggested it. But what’s funny about that is that I’d long been obsessed with the idea of doing a salon there. The opportunity just arose when I wasn’t expecting it.

www.reidcompton.com

The L Stop: What are your goals for Salonathon in 2012?

Jane Beachy: I’d like to continue to expand the horizons of what’s possible in that space. When DAAN guest curated the night, they were so inventive with where and when and how things happened that it really was tremendous.

The L Stop: How would you describe the evolution of Salonathon? Has it changed a great deal over time, or has it simply continued to amass a diverse group of artists in a similar fashion?

Jane Beachy: It’s definitely evolved quite a bit! The basic concept is the same, but the work and the artists are always giving me new ideas for of what’s possible and what might make the series better or more nuanced.

The L Stop: What do you most want readers to know about Salonathon if they haven’t already checked it out?

Jane Beachy: It’s fun! It’s not a pretentious environment. It’s about the simple & pure experience of sharing something for no other reason than to share it. It’s also about never giving up or getting narrow or bored or limited. That’s the energy I hope it conveys, anyhow!

The L Stop: Do you have any particular moments/performers that you’re most proud of? (that might be impossible to pin down, but feel free to share any highlights)

Jane Beachy: It really *is* hard to narrow that down. I’m always proud of anyone with the courage and verve to perform at all!

The L Stop: Many people describe Salonathon as a very queer friendly event. The L Stop caters to trans/queer/bi/lesbian women. Have you consciously reached out to the queer community, or has Salonathon simply addressed great artists first and thereby included all gender identities, expressions, orientations as a by product of that?

Jane Beachy: I was fortunate to be exposed to a lot of amazing queer artists right when I moved to Chicago, as I worked at About Face Theatre for three years. The organization’s mission is to enhance the national dialogue on gender and sexual identity, and the network of talent that surrounds that organization is tremendous. I was just so lucky to drop into the middle of such a brilliant community in this city.

Salonathon continues to support emerging Chicago artists each week with a Monday night event. Cocktails began at 8, and the show starts at 9. Highly recommended.

You May Also Like:

• Get a Reality Check This Thursday at Berlin
• Valentine’s Day Comedy Show
• Why we are accepting the cutest heteros – and why you should too

Back to blog

In order to understand everything in a transgender perspective, there are certain basics that people have to get through. Creating this list is one of them. And holy moley, there’s so many lists of this and that, and yeah it gets tiring, but for my purposes, and my writing, these are essential to understand. Not only was this list therapeutic for me, but also constructive to think of how trans women are not victims, but survivors.

1. Transgendered

Oh sweet Mary, this is one of my biggest pet peeves. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve not only seen this in cisgender² people’s vocabulary, but also in some important transgender-written pieces.

Ok, so what’s the big fuss with adding an –ed at the end? Well, if you look at the history of its usage, it becomes a linguistic nightmare.

Take the case of the now common term, “people of color.” Once upon a time anyone who was not white, particularly African Americans in the U.S., were called “colored.” In this day and age, in our society, people frown at this and correctly label it as racist. Why? Well, because it was a derogatory word for someone who was non-white. Its weight comes from its usage as a passive verb. That this defect, in this case “coloration,” happened to someone and there’s nothing they can do about it.

Simply put, transgender is not a passive verb. It is not something that has happened to someone—they have always been transgender. Transgender, or simply “trans,” is usually used as an adjective to that person’s real gender. In my case, I say I’m a trans woman because I want others to know that I was coercively assigned “male” at birth. That’s what the doctor said when I came out, and that’s how I was raised for a big chunk of my life. Now I am open to others that I am transgender and a woman: “trans woman.”

Also, notice the space between them—trans is the adjective, woman is the noun. So none of this transwoman or transman business for me. I am a woman who happens to be trans.

“Transgendered” seeks to belittle one’s trans status by obscuring it. It makes someone think that this is something that happened to them, or maybe that it was them, and always be them, rather than placing it as an affirmative “transgender person.”

2. “Have you had the surgery?”

I cannot tell you how many strangers ask me this after I come out to them. I’ve got it at bars with a “liberal” crowd, dive bars, and bars where there’s a lesbian majority. Yep. It’s all over.

This question is so intrusive. The first time I was asked it I immediately said “no, but I may in the future.” Later, I felt horrible. I just exposed what’s in my pants to someone I don’t know because I felt like I needed to validate my existence.

This question aims to dehumanize trans people, and in my opinion, it almost always falls on trans women rather than trans men. There are a couple reasons for this that I’ll try to paraphrase here.

No one else needs to claim what’s in their pants except for transgender folk. Everyone assumes other people’s gender in a blink of an eye. If something challenges that assumption, we have to know what their parts are. Our society is obsessed with gender roles and conformity to it—even down to your nether regions. But particularly we’re obsessed with the effeminization³ of male-assigned people.

And, of course, there’s the oft-used assumption that in order to be a “real” transgender that you must get “the surgery.” That’s just not true. I know many, many trans people who either can’t afford it or simply don’t want it. As trans folk, many of us know that the sum of our parts do not reside in our pants. We are not defined by our genitals, and neither should anyone else be.

3. “I couldn’t tell you were transgender!”

Hearing this is so awkward.

Ok. I know this is one of those sticky issues, but “looking” transgender to most people is not a compliment. We live in a society where we’re bred with bizarre (and boring!) standards of beauty. The more feminine a woman looks, the better—same goes for men’s masculine features. Ew!

My transfemininity is beautiful. And if you don’t think I look transgender, so what? Unlike the misled assumption that all trans women want to conform to femininity as much as possible, I don’t I aspire to be a flawless cisgender woman at all.

Now inside the transgender community, it’s different. It can come from a place of internal transphobia, where someone will compliment you by saying that you “pass” as a cisgender woman, and thereby degrade “looking” transgender.

Or it can come from a place of, let’s say, “a queer superiority complex” where if you do not show enough physical traits of transgenderism (jaw line, facial hair shadow, chest, etc.) that you are committing the crime of assimilating to cisgender norms of beauty. These are both wrong.

Final word on this: even if you think it, just don’t say it out loud. It’s not a compliment, because all trans people are beautiful.

4. “What’s it like?”

This is another one of those intrusive questions. How does one even begin to describe what it’s like to be trans? It’s full of complexities. That’s all.

Also, treating trans people as your encyclopedia is not nice. Somehow, it’s way more acceptable to ask a trans person what “it’s like” than, say, a cisgender Latina woman what it’s like being in their shoes.

5. “You’re so brave. Good luck!”

This is pretty condescending. I didn’t choose to be brave, this is just how I am and how I live my life. I don’t need your good luck. I’ve got all the strength that I’ve built up from going through this and am a fully capable person.

6. Tranny / Chicks with Dicks / She-male / He-she

Ok. There’s like of debate inside the transgender community, but I and many other trans women firmly believe that if you are not a transfeminine person, do not say tranny. Ever.

One time someone plainly asked, like it was completely normal, “what kind of tranny are you?” I was kind of stunned. Since it was just after a question about if I had “the surgery,” I sighed and explained that I enjoyed being soft butch and was in a loving relationship with another woman.

Saying the “t word” is similar to saying the “n word” to an African American. This is not comparing oppressions point-blank. These words have very different oppressive histories. But they are similar in the fact that many black folk have reclaimed the n word as many trans women have begun to reclaim the t word.

I won’t get into the “trans male vs. trans female use of tranny” debate here. But there are a lot of opinions, by people I respect dearly. But I do strongly believe that only transfeminine / trans female people have a right to reclaim that word.

Finally, chicks with dicks / she-male / he-she is just plain transphobic. Don’t say it. And correct people who do!

Be an ally to trans folk. Educate yourselves, but more importantly, educate others. Everyone makes mistakes, and these are really hot-button mistakes that so many people do. It’s so important that we develop better allyship and respect trans people.

_____________________

You May Also Like:

• Bush Confidence
• Old Lady Advice
• Remember Your Valentines

Back to blog

I had the chance to talk with Kelly Beeman, the host of Gay Chicago TV’s show Among Girls, and get a look into the show that displays honest conversation about the lives of lesbian and bisexual women in Chicago.

The L Stop: How did you get involved with Gay Chicago TV?

I saw an audition notice for hosts for the new network. I couldn’t be there for the audition but they were letting people submit video auditions. They were due that day at 6pm. So I had to quickly make one at work. You can see it here. I was very surprised when they picked me to host Among Girls, considering that my audition was comical and I’m a comedian. But it’s great to be able to do something more serious for a change.

The L Stop: Have there been any funny bloopers yet during filming?

No, I do everything correct on the first take. Just kidding. I’m very good at memorizing lines and saying them exactly as written and I’m good at making things up on the spot. But when someone tells me to say something like this is what the show is about and maybe say that we are in this business, I always screw it up. Those little introductions take forever for me. I’m looking forward to a show where I have to interview an ostrich. Things always go wrong when an ostrich is involved.

The L Stop: What has been your favorite part of hosting the show so far?

I love talking to the girls. Everyone has an interesting story. And it’s not very often that lesbians really get to sit down and talk about what means a lot to them. I feel like a lot of “gay culture” is centered around gay men. So having this show be just for the girls is great. And the green screen. We have a green screen where we take our promo photos. In the first episode we discussed stereotypes and I got to dress up a lot of them. What was seen in the show wasn’t even half of what I dressed up as. I really want a green screen now.

The L Stop: What can we expect to look forward to in future episodes?

Next episode we have 2 couples, one that is engaged and one that is married and we discuss what has changed and stayed the same. Our 3rd episode we’ll be talking with some of the major lesbian event planners in the area. I’d like to do a show about health and fitness. Something that specifically focuses on lesbian women’s health. And of course a lot of shows involving me and the green screen. I think I can find a space suit somewhere.

Gay Chicago TV also supports local businesses by filming in town and plugging the local business on their shows. So not only do they have entertainment, news, and shows to keep you informed, they also give back to the community. Watch Among Girls here. And keep an eye out for Gay Chicago TV’s cameras around town and check their website to stay updated on everything LGBTQ in Chicago!

You May Also Like:

• Dykes on Bikes are finally a chapter of San Francisco
• Kristin Clifford
• Top ten Chicago lesbians to look out for in 2012

Back to blog

I wanted to say some things to the young women who are just starting their journey or are just figuring out which path they want to explore in this short race called life. I wanted to take a look over my shoulder and put some thoughts out there that I wish to God someone had mentioned to me just a couple of decades ago….it might have made some of the difficult times seem a lot less difficult….

Here we go…..

Take care of your bodies. Take care of your health. Take care of yourself. Stay active and make connections to the mind, body and spirit – not even kidding here. Remember what is feels like to run fast and strong and have no fear of falling – and keep on running. Roll around and get dirty – take out that shortstop when you slide into second and chase that foul ball until you smash into the fence – go all out – every single day. Stay balanced and active and keep your muscles young and supple. Reach for the sky and Namaste your ass into the very best physical specimen you can be. You were born to be the subjects of the great painters of our times and the models who turn lumps of clay into everlasting sculptures of perfection. You are young and powerful – work it girls – don’t find a reason not to put yourself in the front of the fitness line – take care of your body and it will take care of you.

Go to the damn doctor – get that physical – do your woman stuff and get in the stirrups once a year – such a jolly good time (shit) – just do it. Get your pap smear – examine those boobies and make sure your overall health is good. Eat the right foods more often than the wrong foods – party like a rock star but not like a rock star who never reaches 30. Get out and breathe that fresh air – have good conversations with strangers and open your mind to the possibilities that all our differences are amazing and necessary and worth fighting for. Be kind – just be kind. Karma is a beautiful thing – and through kindness and generosity of spirit – we find our heart beats more true and steady – and our health will benefit from an open and forgiving heart – trust me on this one.

Have integrity – with your word – with your hopes and dreams – with each action you put forth into this world. Mean what you say and say what you mean. Listen more than you speak and tell the truth in soft whispers when necessary and loud pounding screams when all is almost lost. Surround yourself with good people – keep your friends close and try to trust those friends as much as you possibly can. Be a good person – make eye contact with the person behind the register at the grocery store – hold the door for the old lady at Walgreens and pick up whatever that stranger just dropped because her hands were too full of too much. Take a moment to look outside of yourself and mesh into the sounds and lives and moments that make up your life. Be a part of something bigger than yourself. Just try.

Don’t worry about getting older. If you are blessed and lucky – it will happen. Don’t count the grey hair or the worry lines – time will change so many things – but it cannot take your youthful spirit – not without your permission. Live for today – live for the moment and don’t get stressed or excited about the trip until you step on that plane baby. Don’t be afraid to be who you are – authentically true – fuck what the people might say. Follow your heart from beginning to end and back again – it will never steer you wrong. Love the one you love – and accept the package they come in and take that crazy chance. Don’t ever settle for less than you deserve and don’t try to fool yourself into thinking that something so wrong could ever possibly be so right. Laugh loud and often and believe that the thing you dream is actually a possibility waiting to happen.

Simplify – remove the clutter in your life and your home and your mind. Accept the good with the bad – and make the bad good whenever you find a way. Go out and see the world – travel and see how the rest of the planet is doing. Taste a beer in Dublin and a pizza in Napoli – gaze at the stars from the North Woods and watch the sun rise in Montauk. And don’t forget to drink that amazing Pinot Noir as you watch that same sun set in Leucadia.

I know – what the hell – will my mind ever stop rambling?? Probably not – but I simply had to share. The bottom line to all of this is that life swings my friends – it just does. Slow down for a minute – live life well – take care of yourself from the inside out and make every single moment matter.

You May Also Like:

• Bush Confidence
• The T Word and 5 Other Things You Should Not Say to Trans Women
• Remember Your Valentines

Back to blog

We were particularly surprised by all the heterosexual couples that submitted their photo. We use “heterosexual” loosely because we didn’t ask if these couples identify in the LGBTQ umbrella. People come in all shapes, colors, and orientations but what brought this group together is LOVE. Take a look at our Top 11 loving couples. Let’s celebrate LOVE everyday, not just today. Thank you to all who voted and participated! We can’t wait for next year.

Gianna and Stefan – Our Cutest Couple of 2012 and Straight Allies

In their own words – Gianna:

Though we are a straight couple, we both believe everyone deserves to find happiness like we have. If that so happens to be through ones sexual orientation, all the more power. We firmly stand by our beliefs and are willing to stand up for those who want to find happiness. By becoming more conscious of what is happening in society about gay rights and spreading the word when appropriate has always been our contribution for LGBTQ awareness and will be our continuing service. Also, introducing the L Stop community to all of our Facebook friends who did not know it existed has extended the word about this wonderful organization. We intend on being proud supporters of The L Stop and LGBTQ communities for many years to come.

Their love story

Stefan and Gianna have been together for over one year. Fate and mutual friends brought them together one night and the rest was history. Away at separate Universities, Stefan- an aspiring doctor and pilot, and Gianna- studying business, only get to see each other every other weekend. They believe their distance makes their hearts and love for one another grow stronger. When they do getto spend time together, Stefan always finds new and exciting ways to spruce their relationship by taking Gianna on fun and surprising dates. Gianna has a sweet personality is always appreciative of the creative and spontaneous ideas Stefan creates. Stefan and Gianna both complete one another and cannot wait until they can see each other every day after they both graduate.

Yhin and Ivane

Our Cutest Lesbian Couple – Winning Photo

Yhin and Ivan with their love Pnutt!

Included in this photo is our baby Pnutt. He is the love of our life. Without him, we wouldn’t be as complete as we are now.

We enjoy motorcycle rides, snowboarding and skiing, or just hanging out, making music,and cooking. We have a very simple yet crazy life. We still have a long way to go and we make sure every moment counts. We are still madly in love with each other and that is surely enough to make us happy for Valentine’s day.

Nancy and Avery

Our Third Cutest Couple – Winning Photo

Their story
Nancy and Avery are shameless do-gooders. They like to open doors for people with groceries and are the first to give up their seats to the elderly. In their free time, they’re starting a counter-recruitment group on the Northside to provide alternatives to the military for high school students. If you’re interested, contact them via facebook. In the meantime, here’s a video of them playing music together.

From Nancy to us
This is how you made me feel today, a quote for dailygood.org:
“We’ve heard it said that this day — which once belonged to a legendary saint in whose wake loving deeds flowed like a river — was hijacked so many years ago by corporations looking to cash in on a beautiful state-of-the-heart technology. They who strode in preaching a catchy new religion: I love therefore I buy. And maybe we bought it. At any rate we’ve been blaming them ever since. Why give them so much attention? This time around why not make this day about something more than either cliched consumerism or ritual ranting … why not attempt a daring coup? Maybe all it requires is for you and me to listen deeply — to ourselves. Because sometimes just listening to your heart can be a revolutionary act. What if we all started? Now. Perhaps we might start a trickle of loving deeds that grows into a river … and somewhere an old saint will smile.”

Jenae and Nicki

Their love story – When Puff met Brownie: A tale of 2 relationship tools

Puffalump, Puff for short, had always been alone. Puff never minded as long as his mom was there for cuddles and good music was around for him to dance to. Puff was so happy in his own little world he never realized there was much for him to see. It had been awhile since he had seen his mom and he missed her dearly, so the next time she came home to grab different panties or a skin care product he spoke up and said “MAAAAAOOMMM! I wanna go with you this time! Its no fun here alone, there is nobody to dance with!!!” Puff’s mom was quite startled. Not because he spoke, but because she had almost abandoned her friend of 27 years. Quickly she packed Puff up and made the short trek to where she had been hiding. On the trip there, Puff explained that he googled what “Uhauling” was and that he was advising against it.

They climbed up the stairs, turned the borrowed key in the door and was greeted by none other than a Brown Bear named Brownie and his mom! Puff had heard of brown bears, (I mean he DID have puffbook) but he had never been in the home of one. Brownie said with a grin“Awww man! You’re too cute to be mean to. I was going to get territorial, ‘cause that’s what bears do, but you’re all perfect and well, you should stay here and be my brother forever!!” Puff was overjoyed!! So happy in fact he started to do The Tootsie Roll! (because you know, the butterfly is old? ) The next few months were filled with happiness for Puff. He learned a lot about stuffed life from Brownie. This is surprisingly similar to thug life. So much so that Puff has suggested matching stitched belly tattoos. He has even gotten to travel to other countries with one or the other of his moms when they were on business!! How many Puffalumps do YOU know that have seen Warhol originals at The Tate? And Music? There was always music. Sometimes different music in different rooms!! He could even dance in front of his new mom’s camera and record videos for you tube!

Puff had always wanted a family and that is exactly what he got. And although that family has two moms that work too much, and a brother Bear that may or may not drink too much fermented honey, he knows it could be worse. I mean, his last name COULD be Santorum.

Who they are
Jenae is a Boutique Specialist, Cultural Curator and founder of The Chicago Dirty Girls. She has hosted lesbian and queer events for the last 10 years. Upcoming events include her birthday gala hosted by Whitney Mixter (The Real L Word) 2/23 & The Chicago Michfest

http://chicagodirtygirl.tumblr.com/ https://www.facebook.com/#!/Chidirtygirl

Nicki (DJ Narz) is Columbia’s premier On-Air Talent/ Producer for 88.1 WCRXFM Chicago’s Underground. Narz DJ’s with The Emports and The Chicago Dirty Girls. She currently finished a documentary about her recent coverage of Iceland Airwaves, the annual showcases for new music – Icelandic and otherwise – in the world.
www.twitter.com/djnarz http://djnarz.tumblr.com/

Stacy and Rebecca

In their own words:
From Rebecca: I never realized that I could ever be as happy as I am with Stacy.  Every morning that I wake up next to her, I can’t believe how lucky I am. Stacy and I met under less than perfect circumstances.  She stood by me even though it was so much easier to run away.  Every moment I am with her, is the greatest second of my life.  We were married just after civil unions were declared legal.  We had every intention of having a cermony regardless of current marriage inequality, but timing couldn’t have been better.  Nothing about marriage is easy, but at the end of the day, we are still always holding eachother.

From Stacy: When I first met Rebecca at the high school we both worked at on the South Side, I was completely nervous and awkward.  Luckily Rebecca was (and continues to be) extremely charming, and she made it easy to fall in love with her.  Having served in Iraq and dedicated her life to education after her return, it’s really impossible not to love her. Ask anyone : )

Between the two of us, we have worked at 4 schools in Chicago, starting GSAs at 3 of them.  Helping expose our students to LGBT issues and introducing them to our community has been one of the most rewarding things about our jobs.  We both believe that it is our resposibility to be open with our students, because everyone needs positive gay role models in their lives.

Julie and Jackie

Their story
Julie and Jackie have been together for 6 years! They met through mutual friends a long time ago. The picture is of the couple about to cross the finish line at the 2011 Chicago Marathon. They were at the 25 mile mark and their friend snapped a photo. They train together for many races throughout the year. They keep each other in check! Julie inspires Jackie every single day.

Macie Roman and Wife

In their own words:
My wife and I are into extreme couponing. Dont think I remember the last time I paid full price for any shampoo, conditioner, laundry detergent ect. I try to donate as much as possible.

Kelly and Cassie

Kelly Calderone is a proud Special Olympic Coach and on March 4th she is going to jump into Lake Michigan to raise awareness and funds for Special Olympic Chicago.

Cassie Wolgamott works in theatre and it currently stage managing Steppenwolf’s production of “fml: how Carson McCullers saved my life.” The play chronicles the inspirational story of Jo, a high school junior from LaGrange IL, as she negotiates what it means to be queer at the age of 16. When Jo becomes the victim of a violent gay-bashing incident at school, the trust and faith she once had in her classmates and community are put to the test.

The piece explores the often forgotten struggle of knowing you’re gay at a young age, and the tribulations associated with finding oneself – a subject that audiences of all sexual orientation will undoubtedly be able to relate. It’s an important piece to both of us, and we hope you can make it (Tickets can be found at steppenwolf.org)
In their own words:
From Cassie: I never thought I’d find anyone as patient, respectful and willing to find the good in people as I am. Kelly is a great person, someone who is always on my side, and I’m so lucky to have found her! From Kelly: I have never been happier, Cassie brings out the life in me! And to
respectfully quote Dan savage ” it does get better!” They’ve been together for 8 months. They met during high school, however the remained acquainted through Facebook. They went to a high school reunion and got together. Also, in the past they found themselves continuously running into one another. After a few years they got the hint that fate wanted them together. What keeps them together? Laughter and love!

Liz and Kim

Who they are
Liz is a member of the Chicago Force, women’s tackle football team. Pumped for the 2012 season, you can find MORE pictures of Liz and her teammates in 2012 calendar (buy yours at http://chicagoforcefootball.com/news.asp?id=152).

Kim is a  die-hard Force fan, and can be found at games rocking a mohawk and giant red Force fist! Come see the Force in action, the first home game is April 21st. Kim is a sign language interpreter for a suburban school district. She loves the freedom her career offers. She gets to be silly with pre-school students one moment and mentally challenge high school students the next. Kim can normally be found after school in the field house coaching. Kim is the PB to Liz’s J. We’ll be sticking together!

Krys Tyn and Mary Rose

In their own words, from Mary:
“In the summer of 2010, my good friend Justina would always talk about this client of hers who she thought would be perfect for me. The occasional bad seeds that we are, admittedly had reputations of being “heart breakers”. Hair stylists are often considered therapists, and with the bi weekly visits justina had with krystyn it made it apparent that we were a match. Around September this so called client added me on facebook and we immediately started chatting.

When Halloween came around, Justina suggested krystyn come to see me because she wasn’t familiar on how to cut and style a pompadour. The night I did her hair was the first time we officially met. The second I saw her there was an attraction right away and once we started talking an instant connection. The girl loves gorey flicks, food and the weirdest things that you could imagine, her and I are both into. On top of that our taste in music is identical.

The night she took me to Simones for rockabilly, I knew I needed to keep her. Over the past year, I admit our relationship has been rough. There has been plenty of ups and downs to the point that we took a break. After a couple of months krystyn found me and we settled our differences and decided to reconnect.

Although, our relationship hasn’t been typical we are now happier than ever and act as though we are married. We shoot pool together, watch movies on her vcr and she cooks dinner and I wash dishes. Our future plans are to get a sphynx cat to start our family and since she’s a dog groomer and I’m a hair stylist we hope to be that ultimate power couple and open a salon of our own.”

Jess and Peg

Their story
They have been together for 2 years and 8 months. They met through a mutual friend in Lafayette, Indiana but are both from the Chicago area. They now know that if they can survive together in a small town in Indiana, they can get through anything that life hands them while they are on their journey getting back home to Chicago!

Who they are
Jess is an artist and art teacher in Lafayette, IN and Peg is a shipping clerk and student. They visit Chicago as often as they can until hopefully moving back for good this summer, as long as Jess can find a teaching job! They love doing new things together and spending time with their rescue cat/fury daughter, Squeaky!

Jess and Peg have volunteered together for Pride Lafayette, the local LBGTQ center in town. Peg is a drag king in the local clubs and has even performed as a headliner for OUT Fest, Lafayette’s version of Pride, for the past two years!

You May Also Like:

• Love is a four letter word
• A Love Story For the Jaded and Cynical
• Why am I single

Back to blog

….. until someone comes along and gives it meaning.

Some people may feel that Valentine’s Day is a made up holiday, a spoof that Hallmark created to sell cards. It may be. But, we at the L Stop are making lemon drop ‘tini’s out of lemons and we are going to use it to celebrate a friend, profess our love to our special someone, or thank our better halves. A few of our staffers wanted to share their feelings this year and say thanks to those who have loved us.

We may not be a couple in the traditional sense of the word. We aren’t dating or moving in together any time soon. We are friends. We are like minded spirits who have lived a little and strive to practice what we preach. We have exceptionally young hearts and we see the world through funky rose colored glasses. We believe in real love and happily-ever-afters. We strive for equality and peace in our community and this crazy world we live in. We met and are connected through The LStop and cherish the team we are so privileged to work with each and every day.

Happy Valentine’s Day from Alma and Kathy.

Happy Valentine’s to the woman who saves her best jokes for me. You are a wiz in the kitchen, a fantastically anal cleaner and take care of animals better than anyone I’ve ever known.

You’re beautiful, smart, and you didn’t run away when I made you take a picture of my naked butt so that I could see how bad the bruise was when I fell down a flight of stairs. I saw that picture and I wanted to run away myself! You are mah Boo and I love you xo

Mia

Dawn Brown to Mandy Regnier:

My now official fiancée is my Valentine. She wooed me with her one liners and I marvel in her patience. She is the balance in my life. When things get stressful she reminds me to breathe and relax. When my views are pessimistic she reminds me to see the positive side of things. And I know that she is the one I will love spending the rest of my life with because whenever I am with her I feel that I am home. My balance, my home, my wifey!! I am blessed to be able to spend the rest of my life with you!

~Always and Forever <3

Mystic Images Photography

Tina would like to share the reason she is excited about Valentines Day.

The story of how Kathi and Tina C. got together is something that would be a great movie. Instead of a romance, however, the movie would be a comedy/drama, since Tina C. wasn’t quite ready when Kathi entered into the picture. Although Tina C. resisted being with Kathi initially, the pair was able to work through the tumultuous beginning. Going against her own steadfast rule of “a break is a break,” Tina C. invited Kathi to the L Stop launch party. It was that night (this picture in fact) where Kathi was slowly convinced to give Tina C. a do-over. As evidenced by the article Tina C. wrote last week, the two have been smitten ever since.

Photo by Sam Hamilton

And to My Joey…

Thank you for being the strong woman you are, together no threats of illness or ignorance can stand in the way of our dreams. You taught me that you can’t find true happiness by only giving love away, you have to be willing to let it in. Thank you for becoming not just my best friend, but my mother’s friend as well. Thank you for making me laugh and cry, often times in the same moment. Thank you for making the bed everyday and for never leaving a coffee cup out, just because you know it bothers me. Thanks for baby Bear and Ash-holy, though we haven’t met them yet, I already love them. But most importantly…thank you for letting me trick you into marrying me in a few short months. It can’t come soon enough.

Meghan

Happy Valentine’s Day to each and every one of you.

Love,

The L Stop

You May Also Like:

• Cutest Couples of 2012 Top 11
• A Love Story For the Jaded and Cynical
• Why am I single

Back to blog

Come check out what New York magazine hails as “brilliant” and celebrate the day of hearts in hilarious style. As a hysterical singer-songwriter, Ben Lerman engages audiences in a unique format. TimeOut Chicago cited his original voice as “So damn funny!” A fan myself, it is exciting to know that he will be in the Windy City for this event. As a popular guest on radio and podcast shows like The Frank DeCaro Show on Sirius XM and the Keith & the Girl Podcast, Ben Lerman doesn’t limit his talents to a singular format. Appearing on LOGO and Here TV, he made his debut music video through Atom.com. No stranger to critical acclaim, Ben was nominated for an Excellence in Comedy in New York Award for Best Musical Comedy Act in 2011.

If you’d like to view some of Ben’s comedy before the 14th, Ben Lerman Plays Ukulele – and Lullaby -  will give you an excellent idea of what you have in store. For more information about Ben Lerman, visit www.benlerman.net.

Show info

Ben Lerman, Heart Doctor
A Valentine’s Day of music and comedy
8pm / $10 / Mary’s Attic / 5400 N. Clark

You May Also Like:

• Get a Reality Check This Thursday at Berlin
• Salonathon
• Why we are accepting the cutest heteros – and why you should too

Back to blog