People (577)

A Person Abbey Rhodes Pageant titles include: Miss Gay Wisconsin 1983-84 (1983-84) at Marc Plaza. Person · Milwaukee Adrian Ames Inspired by the Jewel Box Revue and other female impersonator shows, drag made a major comeback in midcentury Milwaukee. A Person · Milwaukee Al Berry Al Berry, who had previously run the Rooster bar, opened Milwaukee's legendary River Queen in the Cross Keys Hotel in 1971. He sold the business to James O'Connor in 1973. Person · La Crosse Al Graewin, "20 Giving 20" was part of the AIDS Resource Center of Wisconsin's commemoration of its 20th anniversary combating the AIDS epidemic. View all 20 of those honored on the ARCW "20 giving 20" page. Al G A Person · Madison Al Reichenberger Al Reichenberger (1940–2021) co-founded the Dangle Lounge in Madison, Wisconsin with his brother Thomas in 1966. The venue became one of the state's first and most controversial adult-entertainment ba A Person · Milwaukee Al Thomas Al Thomas, formerly of Kenosha, bought the Milwaukee lesbian bar D.K.'s in late 1987 and reopened it as the gay bar Triangle in June 1988. He owned the bar until about 1995. Alan Thomas purchased the A Person · Milwaukee Alan Kettering Alan Kettering bought Woody's Bar in Milwaukee on January 1, 2019, leaving an engineering career to run it. He aimed to make gradual improvements while preserving the bar's laid-back character and its A Person · Milwaukee Albert Tusa Albert Tusa opened Milwaukee's Tic Toc Club in 1940 and ran it until it was sold at auction in 1955. He afterward operated the Pink Pony, a cocktail lounge that became a longtime gay favorite. A Person · Milwaukee Alex Korchunoff Alex Korchunoff was the longtime owner of the Empire Lounge, a small piano bar at 716 N. Plankinton Avenue in downtown Milwaukee. A Person Alexis Pageant titles include: Miss BallGame 1986-87 (1986-87) at BallGame. Person · Green Bay Alexis St. James Search the Drag Titleholders page for other titles and titleholders. Person · Milwaukee Alexis Winter Alexis Winter is truly one of the up and coming Milwaukee legends. Miss Winter has been active in a variety of causes and participates in whatever venue she will not only have fun at but will also mak A Person · Milwaukee Allanah Powers Allanah Powers was a drag performer in Milwaukee. Person · Milwaukee Alyn W. Hess Alyn Hess was one of Milwaukee's earliest gay rights activists. He helped to bring about Milwaukee's Gay Rights Ordinance, which prohibits discrimination in employment, housing and public accomodation A Person · Kenosha Amanda Love Amanda Love was a drag performer in Kenosha. Person · Milwaukee Amy Luettgen Bi+ Pride-Milwaukee co-founder Advisory Panel, Wis. LGBTQ History Project Amy Luettgen is a retired civil servant with a passion for fostering inclusive communities. Person · Waukesha An artist's haven Just a stone�s throw from a bustling commercial area in Waukesha County, the Dix home, wrapped in woodland plantings, seems like a northern retreat. Built in 1971, the structure, which serves as Dix�s A Person Andretta Pageant titles include: Miss Gay Wisconsin 1974-75 1st (1974-75) at Factory. Person Andrew (Drew) Kovaleski Andrew (Drew) Kovaleski, also known as drag performer "Miss Bambi", passed away in January of 2014. Drew was known in the gay bar community both as a popular bartender at such bars as the Ball Game an A Person · Milwaukee Angelo Aiello Angelo "Angel" Aiello owned and managed the Mint Bar, one of Milwaukee's longest-running gay bars, from around 1960 until his death in 1978. His long-term success was widely admired in the local bar s A Person Ann E. Freeze Pageant titles include: Miss Club 5 2000 (2000) at Club 5. A Person · Milwaukee Anna Gravelyn Anna Gravelyn (1876-1944), widely known as "Sailor Ann," was the proprietor of the Milwaukee dockside tavern she opened as the Sail & Rail Hotel & Buffet in 1900. Famous as the "Queen of the Marine Di Person · Milwaukee Annabelle Havlicek Annabelle Havlicek was a business owner in Milwaukee. Person · Milwaukee April May More information on this performer is welcomed. Person Arnie Malmon's "Positively HIV" articles Arnie Malmon's "Positively HIV" articles is part of Wisconsin LGBTQ history. Person · Milwaukee Arnold M. Malmon Community Activist Fundraising HIV and AIDS education Arnie Malmon, an AIDS activist and leader of the LGBT community, was a founder of the Cream City Foundation (CCF) and served on its Board of Direc A Person Art Wille Pageant titles include: Mr. Groovy Guy 1976-77 (1976-77) at Centre Stage. Person · Milwaukee Audrey Nowakowski NPR Media coverage of LGBTQ community Advisory Panel, Wis. LGBTQ History Project Audrey Nowakowski is a host, producer, and reporter for Lake Effect on WUWM 89.7 FM-- Milwaukee's NPR. She is involved Person · Milwaukee B.J. Daniels Pageant titles include: Miss Gay Wisconsin 1984-85 (1984-85) at Marc Plaza.According to a 'Carte de Reine' "Queen card", "BJ Daniels is an exciting and dynamic performer. She is a professional MC and Person · Milwaukee Baby Jane Hudson Baby Jane Hudson has been one of Milwaukee's most versatile and in-demand entertainers for some 40 years. Performing at drag shows and many other entertainment venues, Baby Jane's talents include such B Person Bailey Domino Pageant titles include: Mr. Triangle 2005 (2005) at Triangle. Person Barbara Ericson "20 Giving 20" was part of the AIDS Resource Center of Wisconsin's commemoration of its 20th anniversary combating the AIDS epidemic. View all 20 of those honored on the ARCW "20 giving 20" page. Barb Person · Milwaukee Barbara Gibson Faculty Sponsor for first Gay Rights group at UW-Milwaukee Barbara Ann Gibson volunteered to be faculty advisor for what was then unthinkable: a gay rights organization at UWM. She later recommended t Person · Appleton Barbie Mason Barbie Mason was the winner of the "Miss 1101 West" contest in mid-1984. (1101 West was a bar in Appleton.) Person Beau Beaumont Beau Beaumont is a 6'1" Wisconsin native who made it big in Hollywood. He got into gay porn movies in 1988 when he was "discovered" while dancing with the Chicago Meat Packers. Beau completed more tha B Person BeBe Douglas Pageant titles include: Miss Gay Wisconsin 1992-93 (1992-93) at Marc Plaza. Person · Milwaukee Becky Furmann Victim of Cryptosporidium outbreak Rebecca Ann Katherine Elizabeth Furmann was the adopted child of one of the men in the gay couple of Larry and Ric Furmann. B Person · Milwaukee Becky Persin Becky Persin co-owned Walker's Pint with Elizabeth Boenning when the Milwaukee women's bar opened in 2001. She left the business around 2003-2004 and went on to manage the Pumphouse bar. B Person · Wausau BeeBee Fox BeeBee Fox was a drag performer in Wausau. B Person · Milwaukee Bettie Aiello Bettie Aiello took over the Mint Bar after the 1978 death of her husband, owner Angelo Aiello, and continued running it through its 1986 relocation to South 2nd Street. B Person Betty Boop Pageant titles include: Miss Gay Wis-USofA 2013 (2013). B Person · Milwaukee Bev Nilsson Bev Nilsson, with Pete Nilsson, operated the Leaded Shade bar in the 1970s and went on to own the Milwaukee women's bar Lost & Found. B Person Bianca Martine Pageant titles include: Miss Gay Wisconsin 1976-77 (1976-77) at Centre Stage. Person Bill Frank Bill Frank served on the Board of Directors of the Cream City Foundation from 1989 to about 1995, serving one year as its President (1993). Frank was also active in the Metropolitan Community Church a B Person · Milwaukee Bill Kindt Bill Kindt co-founded the Wreck Room bar in Milwaukee in 1972 with his partner Wayne Bernhagen. He took sole ownership after Bernhagen's death in 1987 and ran the bar until it closed in 1996. Person Bill Lalicata David was a popular long-time bartender and staffer of the Wreck Room and the M&M Club bars. He passed away after a battle with AIDS ralted complications. B Person · Milwaukee Bill Lison Bill Lison was a co-founder and co-owner of the Hybrid Lounge on Brady Street in Milwaukee, opened in 2010. He sold his interest in the bar to co-owner Nate Fried in 2014. B Person · Milwaukee Bill Wardlow Bill Wardlow was a Milwaukee bartender who, with a partner, opened the martini bar Fluid in 1998 after both had worked at the Triangle. He later bought out his partner and became the bar's sole owner Person · Milwaukee Billie Blaze You can find Billie Blaze along-side her 'CAGE' Sisters in Milwaukee as part of the Jail House Revue every Friday and Sunday nights. Along with Nova D'Vine, Jackie Roberts, Christina Chase & other spe B Person Billie Shepherd Pageant titles include: Miss Gay Milwaukee 1972-73 (1972-73) at Neptune. Person · Milwaukee Billy Herrero aka Billie Herreroaka the Brazilian Gypsy Rose Lee aka the Brazilian Carmen Mirandaaka Senorita Herrero, the Brazilian Sensation "The floor show is on, and it's something unusual for Milwaukee entertainment: female impersonators." Person · Milwaukee Bjorn Nasset Drag Performer Board member, Wis. LGBTQ History Project Bjorn Nasset, widely known as drag performer B.J. Daniels, has a long history with the LGBTQ community. For over 40 years their name has been sy Person · Milwaukee Bob Much like Chantal, Bob needs no last name. In fact, all you have to mention is "Bob" and you realize that any event with his pipes participating in will be a great one! At the ripe old age of over "24 Person · Milwaukee Bob Adams In 1972, at the age of 20, Adams was the head of the Billie B. Shears Film Society, showing mostly underground films. He was proud of his work with underground and gay films, but planned to move to Sa B Person · Milwaukee Bob Dietz Bob Dietz co-owned the Milwaukee bar BJ's Mint, later renamed BJ's, with Jim Jones, taking over the former Mint Bar in 1991. B Person · Milwaukee Bob Minzloff Bob Minzloff was a co-owner of the 1100 Club, a Milwaukee bar that operated from 1994 to 2003 and was popular with the city's leather community. B Person · Milwaukee Bob Schmidt He bought out his partners by 1985, ran the bar for decades, and sold the business in 2002 while remaining a fixture of the city's LGBTQ community. B Person · Milwaukee Bob Schnicker Bob Schnicker was one of four friends who opened the Milwaukee bar 3B's in 1991; the bar's name referenced the initials of three of its owners. B Person · Milwaukee Bobby Bell A locally known fashion designer and nightlife figure, he went on to open the bar Papagaio in December 1981. B Person · Milwaukee Bobby Cole Bobby Cole was one of four friends who opened the Milwaukee bar 3B's in 1991; the bar's name referenced the initials of three of its owners. B Person · Milwaukee Bobby Lyons A patron's recollection recounts a property dispute between Lyons and C'est La Vie owner John Clayton. Person · Milwaukee Bobby Schendel Bobby Schendel was a bartender at the Milwaukee gay bar Finale who purchased the business in 1983 and owned it until it closed following a 1986 fire.Bobb Schendel was active in various Milwaukee commu Person · Milwaukee Bonnie Bitch Bonnie Bitch was a drag performer in Milwaukee. Person · Milwaukee Bouji Bouji was a very popular and well-liked drag queen in the 1980s and 1990s. He died of cancer (approx. 2015). Person · Milwaukee Boyd M. McGranaghan Originally from Philadelphia, Boyd McGranaghan moved to Milwaukee to attend Marquette University in 1972. After attaining a bachelor's degree in political science in 1976, he graduated from Marquette Person · Milwaukee Brad Burdick, a.k.a. Antler "Antler (born 1946, Wauwatosa, Wisconsin, USA) is an American poet who lives in Wisconsin. His work reflects the influences of Walt Whitman, Allen Ginsberg, and the American traditions of transcendent Person · Milwaukee Brad Schlaikowski andNick Schlaikowski Brad Schlaikowski and Nick Schlaikowski were recognized by the Milwaukee County Board of Supervisors in June 2023. Person · Milwaukee Bradley S. Babush Volunteer Club Bath staffer Bradley S. Babush Bradley was known by many because of his outgoing personality and 'ready to pitch in and help' attitude. He had worked at the Club Milwaukee for a number B Person · Kenosha Brandi Wyne Brandi Wyne was a drag performer in Kenosha. Person · Milwaukee Brenda Coley Brenda Coley was recognized by the Milwaukee County Board of Supervisors in June 2023. Person Brian Buggy, "20 Giving 20" was part of the AIDS Resource Center of Wisconsin's commemoration of its 20th anniversary combating the AIDS epidemic. View all 20 of those honored on the ARCW "20 giving 20" page. Bria B Person · Milwaukee Brian Firkus Brian Firkus, known by the drag stage name Trixie Mattel, became a co-owner of the Milwaukee bar This Is It in February 2021, in part to help ensure the historic venue survived the COVID-19 pandemic. Person · Milwaukee Brittany Morgan Pageant titles include: Miss Gay Milwaukee WI-USA 1990-91 (1990-91).The following information is largely from the former "DairylandDrag website circa 2004 (that site, www.dairylanddrag.net, no longer B Person Bruce Pageant titles include: Mr. Groovy Guy 1974-75 (1974-75) at Factory. Person · Milwaukee Bruce J. "Jeff" Poniewaz Bruce J. Poniewaz, commonly known as "Jeff Poniewaz�, was born September 28, 1946, in Milwaukee Wisconsin. His obituary read as follows: Bruce J. �Jeff� Poniewaz of Riverwest, passed away December 13 B Person · Milwaukee Bruce Lemke Bruce Lemke was one of four friends who opened the Milwaukee bar 3B's in 1991; the bar's name referenced the initials of three of its owners. B Person Bryanna Banx$ Pageant titles include: Miss Gay Wis-USofA 2011 (2011). Person · Appleton Busty St. Clair You saw her at State! You see her at Club 94! You never know where she's going to turn up. A crowd energizer whose batteries are fully charged and ready-to-go! You should be seeing a lot more of Busty Person · Green Bay C.C. Domino Pageant titles include: Miss Gay Wis-USofA 2001 (2001).Search the Drag Titleholders page for other titles and titleholders. Person · Milwaukee Candi Stratton Candi Stratton was Miss Gay Continental WIsconsin for 1983-1984, as well as Miss Continental Indiana the following year. Person · Milwaukee Carl Bogner In addition to being a lecturer at the University of Wisconsin- Milwaukee, Bogner was the Director of the Milwaukee LGBT Film Festival for most of that festival's lifetime (from about 1997 until its d C Person Carl Clive Pageant titles include: Mr. Triangle 1988-89 (1988-89) at Triangle. C Person Carl Cliver Pageant titles include: Mr. Gay Wisconsin 1988-89 (1988-89) at Marc Plaza. Person · Milwaukee Carl M. Szatmary Szatmary was an early Director of the Milwaukee LGBT Film Festival (at the time called the Milwaukee Gay/Lesbian Film Festival' and sponsored by 'Lavender Commitment' at UWM), until around 1987. In th C Person Carmichael Pageant titles include: Mr. Black Gay Wisconsin 1991-92 (1991-92). Person · Madison Cass Marie Domino Here she is Madison's Baby Girl...The Illusion that creates Confusion, This current Show Director of the Rainbow Room has held many titles and been a top contender for Miss Gay WI USofA, a Former Miss C Person · Kenosha Cassie Meyers Cassie Meyers was a drag performer in Kenosha. C Person Chanel Capri/ Miki Chanel Pageant titles include: Miss Gay Wisconsin 1975-76 (1975-76) at Centre Stage. Person · Kenosha Chantal Our luminescent friend from Southeast Wisconsin has been a frequent performer at Club 94 North in Kenosha, Miss Jo'Dee's International in Racine, Club 219 in Milwaukee, Club 5 in Madison and a host of C Person Chantel Pageant titles include: Miss Triangle 2005 (2005) at Triangle. Person · Milwaukee Charles 'Chuck' F. Brotz Charles F. Brotz (known to most as 'Chuck') is one of those people who you never know where he'll pop up. He was one of the backbones of the community, not drawing too much attention to himself but li Person · Milwaukee Charles 'Chuckie' Betz Charles Betz, known to everyone as 'Chuckie', was born in 1951 and had an exciting and event filled life. He visited many of the most well-known gay bars in Milwaukee of the 1970s, and was one of the Person · Milwaukee Charles A. Dix View one Milwaukee gay man's private collection of Charles Dix art. Dix's immense output in artwork ranged from placid, nature-inspired watercolors to flamboyant visions of an inter-galactic future. I Person Charles Dix Gallery Charles Dix Gallery is part of Wisconsin LGBTQ history. Person Charles Dix: Art Themes One of Charles' earliest themes of major interest to many collectors is the Acrylics series. These are bold three-dimensional paintings, with many of the shapes and forms rising off the canvas in dram Person Charles Dix: artist reflections I am primarily self-taught. I have been inspired by color since boyhood and have always been known as an adept colorist. It was a natural phenomena - the interplay of color on color, color transposed, Person Charles Dix: Design and Decorating Tips Charles Dix: Design and Decorating Tips is part of Wisconsin LGBTQ history. Person · Milwaukee Charles M. (Chuck) Poulson Chuck Poulson, also known as "Charlotte Lorraine", was a popular member of Milwaukee's LGBT community, doing entertainment, being involved in such activities as softball league, and may have done some C Person · Milwaukee Charles Piscuine Charles Piscuine co-owned Milwaukee's Lampost Bar with his brother John. He later managed the Towne Room Bar at the Towne Hotel and died in 1969. Person · Milwaukee Charlotte Partridge Founder, Layton School of Art Wisconsin state chair for the federal Works Project Administration (WPA) Supervised the Wisconsin Federal Art Project At Downer College, Charlotte sought to liberate, mod Person · Milwaukee Chris Search the Drag Titleholders page for other titles and titleholders. Person Chris Ahmuty Chris Ahmuty has been involved with ARCW (AIDS Resource Center of WIsconsin) and other organizations, but is primarily known for his long-time involvement as leader of the local ACLU/ American Civil L C Person · Milwaukee Christ Mares Christ Mares opened the Mint Bar on State Street in downtown Milwaukee on New Year's Day, 1949. The bar became one of the city's longest-running gay bars. Person · Milwaukee Christina Chase Christina Chase has been a fixture of Milwaukee for some time and has made quite and impact! Christina was a regular performer at Club 219 and then moved down the street to headline for "LaCage Presen C Person Christopher Alex Pageant titles include: Mr. Gay Wisconsin 1993-94 (1993-94) at Marc Plaza. Person · Milwaukee Christopher David Fons Christopher Fons was co-founder of the Milwaukee chapter of the AIDS Coalition to Unleash Power (ACT UP). "I think Christopher was the conscience of the AIDS community", said Doug Nelson, Executive Di Person · Milwaukee Christopher R. Gorski AIDS Activist Christopher R. Gorski ('Chris') was described as "a vital part of the community". Early on he volunteered at the Senior Center, Italian Fest, and made craft projects for local grade scho C Person · Milwaukee Chuck Cicirello Chuck Cicirello was a Milwaukee bar owner who founded several gay dance venues, including the original Factory, the Factory II (1982–1984), and Factory 3, as well as the 27th Street Danceteria. He lat Person Cindy Schumann Cindy Schumann was Ms. Gay Wisconsin in mid 1984. Person Cindy Taylor The following is from the article "PrideFest's Cindy Taylor to Leave Festival", by William Attewell, appearing on the WisconsinGayNews.com website early in July 2005: Person · Milwaukee City of Milwaukee "20 Giving 20" was part of the AIDS Resource Center of Wisconsin's commemoration of its 20th anniversary combating the AIDS epidemic. View all 20 of those honored on the ARCW "20 giving 20" page. City C Person · Milwaukee Clarence Germershausen Clarence Germershausen, known in the community as "John Clayton," founded the Milwaukee gay bar C'est La Vie in 1974 and operated it for many years. During the 1980s he became a prominent figure in th C Person · Milwaukee Clark Williams Born and raised in western Wisconsin to a family of beekeepers, Clark A. Williams was a resident of the Milwaukee area from 1991-1995. He lived in Milwaukee during the LGBT community's most tumultous Person · Milwaukee Cody Barron Pageant titles include: Mr. Gay Wisconsin USofA 2004 (2004).Search the Drag Titleholders page for other titles and titleholders. C Person · Milwaukee Connor Goggans Connor Goggans was recognized by the Milwaukee County Board of Supervisors in June 2023. Person · Milwaukee Corey Search the Drag Titleholders page for other titles and titleholders. C Person · Milwaukee Corey Grubb Corey Grubb was a co-founder and longtime co-owner of the Milwaukee dance club La Cage, which opened in 1984. The club's basement restaurant, Grubb's Pub, was named for him. C Person · Milwaukee Cory Bartel Cory Bartel co-opened the Milwaukee bar D.I.X. with his sister Elizabeth Kujawa, moving from New Orleans to help launch the venue in 2010. Person Dan Austin Dan Austin served on the 1989 Lavender Hill party planning committee. Person · Milwaukee Dan E. Dance Dan E. Dance was a male 'King' performer with various titles. Person · Milwaukee Dan Gordon In 1988, Dan established AIDS Information Milwaukee (AIM), and educational group for individuals with HIV infection. In spring of 1989 Dan was hired by AIDS Resource Center of Wisconsin (ARCW) as Busi D Person · Milwaukee Dan Hewett Dan Hewett operated the Milwaukee bar Shadows II- The Top Shelf, which he co-owned with Matthew Gorden from its opening in December 1987 until it closed in 1989. Person · Kenosha Dan Seaver Founding member, Kenosha Pride Advisory Panel, Wis. LGBTQ History Project Dan Seaver is one of the founding members of Kenosha Pride where he now serves as president. Dan works as the Business Manager Person Dan Terrio Diversity and Motivational Speaker Advisory Panel, Wis. LGBTQ History Project For over 25 years, Dan Terrio has inspired countless youth and adults from all walks of life with his story of perseveranc Person · Milwaukee Daniel Cupertino Jr. Daniel Cupertino Jr. was for 24 years a visible and vocal politician known as "Coop" to his south side constituents. While not gay, Cupertino is remembered in the gay and lesbian community as an hones Person · Milwaukee Daniel Fons HIV and AIDS activist Cable program Producer and Host Dan Fons is a former Milwaukee activist and (with Michael Lisowski) former co-producer / co-host of "The Queer Program", a live cable access LGBT D Person Danny Mapp Pageant titles include: Mr. Gay Madison 1986-87 (1986-87). D Person · Madison Dave Eick Dave Eick became owner of Madison, Wisconsin's Club 5 in 2008 after working there as a bartender and general manager. He renamed the venue FIVE Nightclub in 2012 and, with community fundraising and re Person · Milwaukee David E. Clarenbach 26, 1953. Passage of historic 1982 Wisconsin Gay Rights measure In 1982, then Wisconsin State Rep. David Clarenbach along with Milwaukee gay activist Leon Rouse and others were widely credited with he Person · Milwaukee David Kotke aka David Rogers Waiter, Bartender, Host, Manager Male dance performer David Kotke (aka 'David Rogers') was born in Cudahy Wisconsin, attending Cudahy High School and then studying communications at UW-Parkside, where Person · Milwaukee David L. Callentine, Reverend Reverend Pastor, New Hope Metropolitan Community Church in Milwaukee Reverend David Luther Callentine was the Pastor of New Hope Metropolitan Community Church of Milwaukee when he died at the age of 3 Person David L. Neitzel David Neitzel was a member of the Gay Youth. He had come out only about 4 years before, dealing with his sexual orientation, contacting the Gay Youth center, talking on the phone to counselor Michael Person David Paul Iraci David was a very talented, intelligent and special person, with a gift for graphic artistry. He was a co-founder of In Step magazine (along with Ron Geiman). Late examples of his work included the 199 D Person David Pope Pageant titles include: Mr. Gay Wisconsin 1990-91 (1990-91) at Marc Plaza. D Person · Milwaukee David Skwarek David Skwarek co-opened the PumpHouse, an LGBTQ bar in a converted Bay View pumping station, with Michael Murray in 2006. They sold the business in 2007. Person · Milwaukee David Wiggins "20 Giving 20" was part of the AIDS Resource Center of Wisconsin's commemoration of its 20th anniversary combating the AIDS epidemic. View all 20 of those honored on the ARCW "20 giving 20" page. Davi Person · Milwaukee Dawn Michaels Search the Drag Titleholders page for other titles and titleholders. D Person · Milwaukee Dawn Musbach Dawn Musbach co-owned and operated Milwaukee's Nut Hut with her partner Michelle Murphy after they acquired the women's bar in the early 2000s. A customer favorite known for her candor, she helped run Person Dawn Wolff "20 Giving 20" was part of the AIDS Resource Center of Wisconsin's commemoration of its 20th anniversary combating the AIDS epidemic. View all 20 of those honored on the ARCW "20 giving 20" page. Dawn Person · Sheboygan Dean Dayton Bar owner LGBTQ Activist, ROW/ Rainbow Over Wis. Dean Dayton was best known to many as owner and operator of the Blue Lite gay bar in downtown Sheboygan. To others he was best known for his work with Person Dean McBride Dean McBride was an in Wisconsin. Person Debbie Thomae (The following from an obituary written for In Step by Mary Shafer.) Debbie Thomae was a bartender at D.K.s' Tavern and was well liked by all who knew her. A quick wit, sparkling sense of humor, and g Person · Milwaukee Debi Vance She is best known for working many years at Club 219, and later at the M&M Club for a few years prior to its closing in 2006. Debi was also active in BAM, Business Association of Milwaukee when that o D Person Dee Richards Pageant titles include: Miss Gay Great Lakes USA 1989-90 (1989-90) at Pivot Club. Person · Milwaukee DeeDee Winters Search the Drag Titleholders page for other titles and titleholders. D Person Deja Voo Pageant titles include: Miss Gay Wis-USofA 2006 (2006). Person Del Slowik Del Slowik was a common name to hear and a common face to see during the years that he co-owned and operated (with Tony) the bar known variously as Circus-Circus and Club 219. Slowick was interviewed Person · Milwaukee Delbert E. Pascavis Delbert E. Pascavis was Milwaukee's representative to national "Black And White Men Together", a past Milwaukee chapter secretary, and editor of BWMT's newsletter. In 1984 the Milwaukee Chapter of BWM Person · Milwaukee Denise Blu Her nickname "Little Bit" is a little misleading! There is nothing little about the performances of Denise Blu; her small stature leads to the shock of her bigger than life performances! A classy blen Person · Milwaukee Denise Wandke Denise Wandke was recognized by the Milwaukee County Board of Supervisors in June 2023. Person Denise Wise Denise Wise, President of the Cream City Foundation board and a member of the PrideFest Task Force will be leaving Wisconsin to take a new job in Gunn, Colorado. �One of the things I�ve always wanted D Person Dennis Pageant titles include: Mr. Groovy Guy 1975-76 (1975-76) at Centre Stage. Person Dennis Carlson Dennis 'Justin' Carlson worked for many years at Jim Manders Floral Shop in Shorewood. But when events were held at the old Mint Bar on State Street, Dennis was the first to offer to help decorate. He Person · Milwaukee Dennis K. Wesela He was called "King" by family, serving as Best Man at his brother's wedding and Godfather to a nephew. At one time married and the father of two girls, Dennis also worked as a police officer for 5 ye Person · Milwaukee Dennis R. Thomas He was reportedly one of the original volunteers who helped form Pridefest, and was also very involved with AIDS activism. Person Dennis Wolke Dennis Wolke & Mike Murphy met in February 1981. Mike had started bartending at C'est La Vie, then went over to Club 219. Both Mike and Dennis later worked as bartenders at LaCage, where Mike spent 16 Person · Milwaukee Denny (Chris) Welch Denny (Chris) Welch wasn't born in Milwaukee, but he made it his home. He lived here, worked here, found a lover here and together they bought a home. Chris worked at several bars in the 1980s, includ Person · Madison Desiree Mathews Desiree has held title to many Preliminaries to America, USofA, and Continental Pageants. Well know for her "The Illusions of Wynonna Judd and Eartha Kitt", she can be seen every Thursday and most Sun Person · Madison Destiny Mathews Currently the reigning Miss Rainbow Room Forever, she is in a semi-state of retirement. Destiny has held many titles in the USofA pageant system within Wisconsin such as Miss Southern Wisconsin USofA Person · Madison Diamond Girl This Latina Goddess hails to us all the way from Puerto Rico. She is the current reigning Miss Gay Madison Continental 2003 and is working towards the title of Miss Gay Continental Wisconsin. The illu Person · Milwaukee Diane 'Legs' Gregory Female Stage Dancer/ Performer, Bartender, Activist Diane Gregory, known by many simply as 'Legs', was a pioneering and popular member of Milwaukee's women's community: as a stage performer, as a bart Person · Milwaukee Dixie Diamonds Dixie Diamonds was a drag performer in Milwaukee. Person · Milwaukee Dominique Mahon The performer known as Dominique is remembered by many as doing an Anita Baker impression 'SPOT ON'. D Person · Milwaukee Don Krause Don Krause co-founded Milwaukee's Art Bar with his partner John Tomlinson in 2004. The couple later expanded their holdings to include the neighboring Two Bar & Lounge and the Wonderland Diner. D Person · Milwaukee Don Martinson Don Martinson was a co-owner of The TAZZbah Bar & Grille in Milwaukee (2004-2007), where he handled much of the building's rehabilitation. Person · Milwaukee Don Schwamb Donald F. Schwamb, known to everyone as Don Schwamb, was perhaps a typical 1950s child dealing with coming out as gay. He remembers telling his parents when he was 12, "I don't like girls, I like boys Person · Milwaukee Don Schwamb — Milwaukee County Board citation (2022) In June 2022, Don Schwamb received recognition from the Milwaukee County Board of Supervisors for his work in the LGBT community. The full text of the citation reads as follows: WHEREAS, Don Schwamb b Person · Milwaukee Donald J. Hebein Bartender Don Hebein was a bartender at C'est La Vie bar in Milwaukee. He passed away of complications due to AIDS. Person · Milwaukee Donna Burkett 1971). A biographical panel was created by the Milwaukee LGBT History Project about Donna Burkett and Manonia Evans, and was featured in a display first appearing at PrideFest 2011. The text from that Person · Milwaukee Donna Utke She was one of five founding members of the Gay Peoples Union (GPU) in 1970 and an active member of Grapevine, the Feminist Writer's Guild, and the Milwaukee chapter of the National Organization of Wo Person Doug Johnson, "20 Giving 20" was part of the AIDS Resource Center of Wisconsin's commemoration of its 20th anniversary combating the AIDS epidemic. View all 20 of those honored on the ARCW "20 giving 20" page. Doug Person · Milwaukee Doug Nelson Doug Nelson was selected to become the second Executive Director of the ARCW/ AIDS Rescource Center of Wisconsin after the resignation of his predecessor, Sue Dietz, to join the CDC (Centers for Disea Person · Milwaukee Dr. Andrew Petroll Dr. Andrew Petroll was recognized by the Milwaukee County Board of Supervisors in June 2023. Person · Milwaukee Dr. Ian Martin Dr. Ian Martin was recognized by the Milwaukee County Board of Supervisors in June 2023. Person · Milwaukee Dr. Karen Lamb Karen Lamb was the wife of long-time mayor of Milwaukee, Henry Maier, but in the LGBT community is best known as a consistent supporter of the community and its causes, primarily in the areas of healt D Person · Madison Dudley Howe Dudley Howe (c.1910–1992) was the proprietor of the 602 Club, a Madison, Wisconsin tavern he opened in 1951 and ran for more than four decades. The bar was unusually tolerant for its era and became a Person · Milwaukee DuWanna Moore Search the Drag Titleholders page for other titles and titleholders. Person · Madison Earl Bricker Earl Bricker lived in Wisconsin for 21 years, moving there in 1978, right after serving in the Peace Corps. Bricker worked for a while for the American Civil Liberties Union of Wisconsin as its Madiso E Person · Milwaukee Earl Thalacker Earl Thalacker co-founded the east-side Milwaukee gay bar Finale in 1975 with his partner, Frank Thalacker. Person Ebbie Duggins Ebbie Duggins served on the 1989 Lavender Hill party planning committee. E Person Echo Chambers Pageant titles include: Miss Black Gay Wisconsin 1986-87 (1986-87). E Person · Madison Ed Grunewald Ed Grunewald (died April 21, 2008) was a Madison, Wisconsin bar owner. He operated Manoeuvres in the mid-1990s and in 1998 opened the much larger Club 5 complex to meet community demand after a 1996 f E Person · Milwaukee Eddie Carver Eddie Carver was a co-owner of Milwaukee's Harbor Room and the married partner of founder Gregg Fitzpatrick. He died in June 2021. Person · Milwaukee Edward Joseph Schicker, Jr. a.k.a. Tiger Rose Drag personality Edward Joseph Schicker, Jr. was best known as drag performer "Tiger Rose". His life is described in the In Memoriam column of In Step magazine by his friend 'Ned': Person · Milwaukee Eldon Murray Community Activist Gay People's Union GPU STD Clinic Sage After Eldon's death, a biographical panel was created by the Milwaukee LGBT History Project, and was featured in a display first appearing at Person · Milwaukee Elizabeth (Bet-z) Boenning Elizabeth (Bet-z) Boenning has been best known as owner of one of the country's few remaining lesbian bars, "Walker's Pint". Elizabeth "Bet'z" Boenning opened Walker's Pint, a women's bar in Milwaukee E Person · Milwaukee Elizabeth Kujawa Elizabeth Kujawa opened the Milwaukee bar that became D.I.X., first launching it in 2007 as The General's before relaunching it as D.I.X. in 2010 with her brother and co-owner Cory Bartel. Person · Green Bay Elsie Bovine Search the Drag Titleholders page for other titles and titleholders. E Person · Green Bay Emir Illuzion Emir Illuzion was a drag performer in Green Bay. E Person Erica Stevens/ Tina Capri Pageant titles include: Miss Gay Wisconsin 1986-87 (1986-87) at Marc Plaza. Person Erv Uecker & Ross Walker Erv Uecker & Ross Walker is part of Wisconsin LGBTQ history. Person · Milwaukee Erwin Albert Uecker View the Erv Uecker and Ross Walker Images & Articles Gallery of articles and photos from LGBT media referencing Ross and Erv. Reverend Erwin A. Uecker (known to everyone in Milwaukee as simply "Erv U E Person · Milwaukee Ester Flonaze Drag personality 'Ester Flonaze' was recognized by the Milwaukee County Board of Supervisors in June 2023. Person · Milwaukee Father Mike Hammer "20 Giving 20" was part of the AIDS Resource Center of Wisconsin's commemoration of its 20th anniversary combating the AIDS epidemic. View all 20 of those honored on the ARCW "20 giving 20" page. Fath Person · Milwaukee Francis Leon(born Francis Patrick Glassey) aka 'The Famous Leon'aka 'The Only Leon' Francis Leon (born Francis Patrick Glassey in 1844) was billed as "The Leon" or "The Only Leon." On June 7, 1884, he performed what is believed to be the first "drag" show in Milwaukee history, at Nun F Person · Milwaukee Frank Demling Frank Demling opened the Fox bar on Milwaukee's Plankinton Avenue in 1948 and operated it until his death in 1955. F Person · Milwaukee Frank Thalacker Frank Thalacker opened Shadows, a gay-owned restaurant and bar in Milwaukee's Walker's Point, in February 1980. The establishment earned a strong reputation for its American food. Person Fred (Casey) Reilly Fred Reilly, better known as "Casey", passed away following a heart attack on November 15 of 2007. Casey was known in the LGBTQ community as Director and CEO of STD Specialties Clinic, which offered f Person · Milwaukee Garold (Gary) Dalton Born deaf, Garold Dalton, known as Gary, graduated from Lincoln High School in the late fifties. Up to and during his teen years, Gary, was a state champion skater in singles and pairs. Later in life, G Person Garrison Pageant titles include: Mr. Triangle 2004 (2004) at Triangle. Person · Milwaukee Garrison Fraser Garrison has been involved in music and dancing most of his life. He currently is a music and show designer for over 30 music and touring groups - with 17 winning championships to his credit. Person · Milwaukee Gary Kampe & David Roberts Gary Kampe and David Roberts were two men who, within a year of the June 26, 2015 U.S. Supreme Court ruling legalizing same-sex marriage, became married. They had met back in 1978 in the legendary 'Fa Person Gay Side cartoon gallery Gay Side cartoon gallery is part of Wisconsin LGBTQ history. G Person · Milwaukee Gene O'Brien Gene O'Brien co-founded the Ball Game, a Milwaukee gay bar, with Rick Kowal in 1974. He remained a co-owner until his death in March 1985. G Person · Milwaukee George Bemis George Bemis was a former Milwaukee police sergeant who became a gay bar operator, taking over the Fox bar in 1964. He also owned the nearby New Yorker Lounge until the mid-1970s. G Person · Milwaukee George Prentice George Prentice was a co-founder and longtime co-owner of the Milwaukee dance club La Cage, which opened in 1984. He and Corey Grubb sold the club in 2005 but later resumed ownership. Person · Milwaukee George R. 'Bunny' Opper Spirited, sassy, carefree and colorful, "Bunny" began his life as George Opper in rural Grafton, Wisconsin on April 21, 1936. Bored with the country life, the thrill-seeking teen hitchhiked his way do G Person · Milwaukee George Schneider George Schneider joined the staff of This Is It around 2010, became part owner, and assumed ownership of the Milwaukee bar after Joe Brehm's death in 2016, helping modernize it while preserving its ch Person · Milwaukee Gertude Ann Ambelang Health care, AIDS prevention Gertude Ann Ambelang, along with her husband, Bob, was a dedicated volunteer at the BESTD Clinic. Affectionately known as Granny & Grandpa Condom, she and Bob assembled th G Person · Green Bay GiGi Lexus GiGi Lexus was a drag performer in Green Bay. Person · Milwaukee Ginger Spice aka Richard J. Wyatt Ginger Spice, born as Richard J. Wyatt but known to friends and thousands of fans as simply 'Ginger', was a pioneering and popular member of Milwaukee's 'drag' scene. In 2022, LGBT historian Michail T Person Glenway Wescott Glenway Wescott (1901-1987) was a major American novelist during the 1920-1940 period and a figure in the American expatriot literary community in Paris during the 1920s. Wescott was a homosexual. Wes G Person Gloria Holloway Pageant titles include: Miss Gay Wisconsin 1982-83 (1982-83) at Marc Plaza. G Person · Milwaukee Gregg Fitzpatrick Gregg Fitzpatrick founded the Harbor Room, a Milwaukee levi and leather bar, in 2000, purchasing and renovating the historic building. He operated it with his partner Eddie Carver until his death in D G Person Gregory Diring Pageant titles include: Mr. Gay Wisconsin 1991-92 (1991-92) at Marc Plaza. G Person · Milwaukee Gus Hosseini Gus Hosseini was a Milwaukee bar owner who operated the Unicorn (1984) in the basement of the Sidney HiH building, which he managed. He had earlier run a gay disco, the Golden Shaft, in the same space H Person · Milwaukee Harry Buettner Harry Buettner was one of the founders of Loose Ends, a Milwaukee bar he opened with Karen and Loren Buettner on Fond du Lac Avenue in February 1986. Person · Milwaukee Harry Hynesaka Millie Brown We cannot imagine the bravery required to live an authentic transgender life in 1890s Milwaukee. We salute the few known transgender elders who attempted to be their best selves in a cruel world. They Person · Milwaukee Helen L. Joslin, aka "Dirty Helen" Helen L. Joslin was working for the George Webb Restaurant on 1st and Mitchell in Milwaukee when she had a spat with her boss. At the time, the Ski Glow Cafe needed a waitress for the night shift, and H Person · Stevens Point Henry Duda Henry H. "Hank" Duda (1921-2008) was the owner of the Platwood Club, a gay-friendly bar in Stevens Point, Wisconsin. A lifelong area resident, he served as Portage County Sheriff in the early 1950s, f Person · Milwaukee Holly Brown Tongue The singer, comedienne, and dancer Holly Brown started out performing at Club 219, then headed up "Holly and Company", a troupe whose shows at La Cage in the 1980s gained for them an enthusiastic foll Person · Green Bay Holly Hot Damn Search the Drag Titleholders page for other titles and titleholders. Person Ian Gilson, "20 Giving 20" was part of the AIDS Resource Center of Wisconsin's commemoration of its 20th anniversary combating the AIDS epidemic. View all 20 of those honored on the ARCW "20 giving 20" page. Ian Person · Milwaukee Ilet 'Tina' Terry Ilet Terry, known to everyone as "Tina", owned a series of LGBT bars catering to the African American (black) community from about 1982 to 1993. All the bars were named "Tina's RTI" which was located Person · Milwaukee Israel Ramon First Latino Constitutional Officer in Wisconsin Recognitions were made in the categories of "Community Leaders and Activists," "Government Leaders," "Business and Cultural Leaders," and "Health and W Person · Milwaukee J. Robert Moore(Bob Moore) J. Robert Moore, known to everyone as Bob Moore, was an activist in Milwaukee gay life of the 1970s through the late 1990s. He was active in Gay People's Union and many other organizations, and was a Person · Milwaukee J.J. Newman Gay WIsconsin at the Pageant in Milwaukee in November, 1989, serving until the crown was transferred in November, 1990. A former Marine sergeant, J.J. was described in contemporary articles as seeming J Person · Madison J.J. O'Connell He opened it in 1986, briefly rebranded it as the dance-oriented Phaze II from 1991 to 1994, and then restored the Shamrock name, under which the bar continued for decades. J Person J.T. Held(or Jimmy Helm?) Pageant titles include: Mr. Groovy Guy 1979-80 (1979-80) at Centre Stage. Person · Milwaukee Jack H. Smith He advertised extensively in local GLBT media, and was generous with his donations and funding worthy causes. Recognitions were made in the categories of "Community Leaders and Activists," "Government Person · Milwaukee Jackie Christine Jackie is a featured performer at C'est La Vie with the Saturday Night Sirens but has also been on stage at Club 219 during the hey-day of Kyllie West and the Femme Fatales! Watch the stages around to Person · Milwaukee Jackie Roberts (The following are excerpts from a biography of close friends Jackie Roberts and Rudi D'Angelo by Michail Takach for this website in 2023.) Jackie Roberts was born John Paul Jaccard. While attending M Person · Milwaukee Jaime Hernandez aka Jamie Gays Best known as an early cross-dressing performer in Milwaukee, Jamie Gays opened the gay bar 'Jamies' in the early 1970s. Jamie Gays (also known as Jaime Gays, legal name: Jaime Hernandez) was intervie Person · Milwaukee Jamakaya Jamakaya was one of the founders of the Milwaukee LGBT History Project, and conducted some of its first Oral History interviews, also developing interview guidelines. She has also been an active membe Person · Milwaukee James "Jimmy" Dorn James "Jimmy" Dorn was one of the original owners of the Your Place (YP) gay bar, located at 813 S. 1st Street in Milwaukee from 1965 to 1994. He was a regular at meetings of the Gay People's Union an Person · Milwaukee James 'Jamie' Taylor Bartender Media: Photographer, Writer Historian 'Jamie' Taylor was born James Taylor, but is known as Jamie to all his friends in Milwaukee. Jamie first became active in the gay community as a bartend Person James Faulkenberg Jim obtained his inspirations from such diverse sources as the French Symbolists, British Pre-Raphalites, turn-of-the-century children's book illustrators, medieval tapestries, Art Deco, 1930s cartoon Person · Milwaukee James J. Schnieders James J. Schnieders was manager of the Wreck Room when he passed away in 1987, but worked with many others in the community on various community projects. He was a driving force in the Wreck Room's an Person · Green Bay James Lacey, "20 Giving 20" was part of the AIDS Resource Center of Wisconsin's commemoration of its 20th anniversary combating the AIDS epidemic. View all 20 of those honored on the ARCW "20 giving 20" page. Jame Person · Milwaukee James Mark Skybergaka Jimmy Von Milwaukeeaka Leo Feldman Artist/ Leo Feldman Art Galleries owner James Mark Skyberg (aka 'Jimmy Von Milwaukee') was born in 1954, in Duluth, MN, and raised in an intellectually liberal family. From an early age his Norwegian J Person · Milwaukee James Marr James Marr, who performed as Lana St. James, owned the Milwaukee gay bar Triangle from 2000 until his sudden death in March 2011, after which ownership passed to a family member. J Person · Milwaukee James O'Connor James O'Connor purchased the River Queen bar in Milwaukee from Al Berry in 1973 and operated it through the mid-1970s, a period during which the bar drew a major police corruption investigation. Person James Vergeront, "20 Giving 20" was part of the AIDS Resource Center of Wisconsin's commemoration of its 20th anniversary combating the AIDS epidemic. View all 20 of those honored on the ARCW "20 giving 20" page. Jame Person James W. Kallas (aka 'Tiny') James Kallas, known to everyone as 'Tiny', was a popular and well-known bouncer at The Factory Bar. 'Tiny' reportedly left the bar late the night of April 28, 1979 with two men. After being missing fo Person Jamie Nabozny Civil Rights Advocate Gay teens who are harassed by classmates have legal options because of Jamie Nabozny, who won a $900,000 settlement in 1996 from a school district in Ashland, WI. That case marke J Person · Milwaukee Janet Mueller The venue was remembered as one of the city's most evenly mixed gay and lesbian bars. Person · Milwaukee Janice (Colby) Brown Janice is also one of Milwaukee's legendary entertainers (going by the stage name 'Janice Colby') and has won many titles throughout the state as well as in other states. She has also held several nat Person Janice Hand "20 Giving 20" was part of the AIDS Resource Center of Wisconsin's commemoration of its 20th anniversary combating the AIDS epidemic. View all 20 of those honored on the ARCW "20 giving 20" page. Jani J Person · Milwaukee Jarica Jordan Jarica Jordan was a drag performer in Milwaukee. Person · Milwaukee Jason Rae Jason Rae was recognized by the Milwaukee County Board of Supervisors in June 2023. J Person · Kenosha Jazmine Roberts Pageant titles include: Miss Club 94 North 2003 (2003) at Club 94 North. J Person Jazzy St. James Pageant titles include: Mr. Triangle 2007 (2007) at Triangle. J Person · Milwaukee Jean Stellick Jean Stellick purchased the Milwaukee bar Loose Ends in December 1992, becoming its owner during the later years of its operation. Person Jeanette, aka Jet Jet is best known as owner of the bar, Jet's Place, from 1986 to 1991. J Person Jeff Jennings Pageant titles include: Mr. Gay Wisconsin USofA 1995 (1995). J Person Jeff Schulz Pageant titles include: Mr. Groovy Guy 1973-74 1st (1973-74) at Factory. J Person Jeff Waldecker Jeff (Wolf) Waldecker was born approximately 1951. Jeff was the son of 'Colonel Hope', a woman who adopted the 'Colonel' monicker both from her army experience and from her rank as an Auctioneer. She J Person Jeffrey Lee Pageant titles include: Mr. Gay Wisconsin USofA 2003 (2003). Person · Milwaukee Jeffrey P. Clark Bartender Bowler, H.I.T. Hall of Fame AIDS Activist Jeffrey P. Clark was born on April 20, 1957 in Shawano, Wisconsin. He attended grade school and Shawano High School, where he graduated in 1975 with Person · Milwaukee Jen Murray Jen Murray was recognized by the Milwaukee County Board of Supervisors in June 2023. J Person Jennifer Pageant titles include: Miss Gay Madison 1986-87 (1986-87). J Person · Green Bay Jennifer Alyce Jennifer Alyce was a drag performer in Green Bay. J Person · Milwaukee Jerry Bentley Jerry Bentley was the partner of Jim Dorn and co-opened the Milwaukee gay bar Your Place in 1965, helping run it as a family-operated establishment. J Person · Milwaukee Jerry Breiling Jerry Breiling was a longtime Milwaukee gay-bar bartender and manager who, with his partner Serge Bellitelli, opened the bar Kruz in 2006. He died unexpectedly in October 2023. Person · Milwaukee Jerry Johnson Community Activist PrideFest history displays The Wisconsin Light co-founder/publisher Jerry Johnson has become a well-known person in Milwaukee and Wisconsin�s GLBT community. J Person Jesse Rivera Pageant titles include: Mr. Gay Wisconsin USofA At-Large 2004 (2004). J Person · Milwaukee Jim Balistreri Jim Balistreri was the owner of Partners, a Milwaukee bar at 813 S. 1st Street that operated from 1989 to 1992 in the former Your Place location. J Person · Milwaukee Jim Dorn Jim Dorn opened Your Place, one of Milwaukee's first openly gay bars, in 1965 with his partner Jerry Bentley. A former Navy sailor, he chose the bar's discreet name so patrons could make plans without J Person · Milwaukee Jim Jones Jim Jones co-owned the Milwaukee bar BJ's Mint, later renamed BJ's, with Bob Dietz, taking over the former Mint Bar in 1991. J Person · Milwaukee Jim Melotte Jim Melotte helped form the Milwaukee Pride Parade in 2005. The Parade had in earlier years been part of the Pridefest celebration and event, until Pridefest abandoned parade organization and concentr J Person · Milwaukee Jim Moes He remained a partner in the business until owner Bob Schmidt bought out the partners by 1985. J Person · Milwaukee Jim Rodell Jim Rodell is believed to have been the owner of Mama Roux Bar Americain & Grill, a Milwaukee east-side bar and restaurant that operated from 1994 to 1999. J Person · Milwaukee Jim Schlief Jim Schlief was involved with the AIDS Resource Center of Wisconsin (ARCW), and worked on development of the Milwaukee LGBT Community Center. Denise Wise, who served for some time on the board and as J Person · Milwaukee Jim Seeboth Jim Seeboth co-founded the Circus dance club in Milwaukee in 1976 with George Prentice, operating it until the business was sold to new managers in 1978. Person · Madison Jim Yeadon Attorney Politician- Madison city council Jim Yeadon has been a gay activist since 1969. He was instrumental in framing the revised equal opportunities ordinance which extended protections against dis J Person · Wauwatosa Jimmy Swittel Jimmy Swittel ran Jimmy's Hi-Fi Lounge, later known as Swittel's, a bar in Wauwatosa where he operated a gay bar on the upper floor. He was known to sing for patrons and came from a family prominent i Person · Milwaukee Jimmy Zingale Jimmy Zingale may be best known as one of the original owners of the Castaways South Bar from the mid-1960s to the early 1970s. Jimmy was a cousin of gay bar mogul Chuck Cicirello-- and Jimmy is said J Person · Milwaukee JoAnn Kilsdonk JoAnn Kilsdonk co-founded the Sugar Shack, Milwaukee's first lesbian-owned bar for women, in 1975 with Sharon Dixon. She ran it until selling the business around 1981 and died in November 2019. Person · Milwaukee JoCasta Zamarripa Politician- First openly LGBT City of Milw Alderperson JoCasta Zamarripa is the City of Milwaukee's first openly LGBTQ member of Milwaukee's Common Council. As alderwoman for Milwaukee's 8th District, Person Joe Arneth Joe Arneth served on the 1989 Lavender Hill party planning committee. J Person Joe Bradshaw Pageant titles include: Mr. Gay Wisconsin 1984-85 (1984-85) at Marc Plaza. Person · Milwaukee Joe Brehm It seems as if time has stood still when you walk into the unmarked bar on Wells Street across from Real Chili. The gold-flecked mirrors and the black leather booths that line the red-carpeted walls a Person · Milwaukee Joe Feldhausen Father Joseph Feldhausen was a native of the Milwaukee area, and attended St. Francis Seminary High School. After spending two years at Marquette University, he transfered to the University of Wiscons J Person · Milwaukee Joel Castillo Joel Castillo, known as J.C., opened JC's Rainbow Bar on Milwaukee's south side in December 1990. The bar closed about five months later due to his health problems. Person · Milwaukee Joey Black More information on this performer is welcomed. Person · Eau Claire John A. Klinger John A. Klinger was well known in the Eau Claire region's LGBT community for his service as a founding member of the Chippewa Valley LGBT Center and as a member of both the Wisconsin HIV/AIDS Preventi J Person · Milwaukee John Clayton In 1975 he opened the south-side bar Advent while also running the bar C'est La Vie. Person · Milwaukee John D. Vanden Busch Jack died on Saturday, April 8, 1989 in a Milwaukee hospital of complications due to kidney failure. J Person · Milwaukee John George John George was recognized by the Milwaukee County Board of Supervisors in June 2023. Person · Milwaukee John M. Cowles John was happy and proud to be gay, and was proactive in LGBT issues. He was a founder and first president of GAMMA, a board member of the Cream City Foundation (CCF), and was active in AIDS awareness J Person · Milwaukee John Piscuine John Piscuine co-owned Milwaukee's Lampost Bar with his brother Charles during its years as an underground gambling and bar venue. J Person · Milwaukee John Tomlinson John Tomlinson co-founded Milwaukee's Art Bar with his partner Don Krause in 2004. The couple later expanded their holdings to include the neighboring Two Bar & Lounge and the Wonderland Diner. J Person · Milwaukee Jonathan Cervero Jonathan Cervero opened the downtown Milwaukee pub JC's Pub & Grill in 2009. He had previously been a popular server at Harry's Bar and Grill in Shorewood. Person · Milwaukee Joseph E. Amato a.k.a. Joseph E. Amato was known to many in the gay community as entertainer Josie Blake. Born in Chicago, he moved as a child to Wonder Lake, Illinois, south of Lake Geneva. Amato was a special education te J Person · Milwaukee Joseph Enea Joseph Enea purchased the Empire Lounge in Milwaukee in 1975, intending to operate it as a gay bar, and briefly reopened it as a small disco. He had previously been associated with the Ad Lib club. Person · Milwaukee Joseph L. Carter aka 'Josie' Carter Drag personality, Activist Joseph L. 'Josie' Carter was an early Milwaukee LGBTQ drag performer and unsung hero for over five decades. J Person Josie Lynn Pageant titles include: Miss Gay Wis-USofA 1997 (1997). J Person · Milwaukee June Brehm June Brehm founded This Is It in downtown Milwaukee in 1968, after previously running a supper club in Butler, Wisconsin. She owned the bar for over four decades until her death in January 2010. J Person · Green Bay Justine D'Zire Pageant titles include: Miss Gay Wis-USofA 2003 (2003). Person · Green Bay Justis Tenpenny LGBTQ Advocate Advisory Panel, Wis. LGBTQ History Project Justis Tenpenny is an LGBTQ advocate who has served the Northeastern Wisconsin queer community for over 9 years. He has developed and led the K Person · Milwaukee Karen Buettner Karen Buettner was one of the founders of Loose Ends, a Milwaukee bar she opened with Harry and Loren Buettner on Fond du Lac Avenue in February 1986. K Person · Milwaukee Karen Gotzler Karen Gotzler was recognized by the Milwaukee County Board of Supervisors in June 2023. Person · Milwaukee Karen Snider Karen Snider was the subject of an interview by the Milwaukee LGBT History Project early in 2003, and was featured in a display first appearing at PrideFest 2003. Karen Snider's life raises the import K Person · Milwaukee Karla Farr Karla Farr managed the Lost & Found, a women's bar and disco on Milwaukee's North 27th Street, from its 1978 opening, and is credited with creating a popular and distinctive space for women. Person Kathy Busch Kathy Busch was for a time librarian for the AIDS Resource Center of Wisconsin (ARCW). Person · Appleton Kathy Flores Anti-racism and anti-violence Advocate Advisory Panel, Wis. LGBTQ History Project Kathy Flores has served on dozens of boards and committees over the years including Planned Parenthood of Wisconsin an K Person · Milwaukee Kathy Kau Kathy Kau took over a Milwaukee neighborhood bar and reopened it as Kathy's Nut Hut in the early 1980s, building it into the city's longest-running women's bar. She brought the bar openly into the gay Person · Appleton Katrina Roberts Katrina Roberts is a frequent fixture both on stage and in the back of many clubs. As always, a joy to be around whether in or out of a dress. Katrina started "accessorizing" in North West Wisconsin, K Person Keenan Jamison Pageant titles include: Mr. Black Gay Wisconsin 1993-94 (1993-94). K Person · Green Bay Kelli Jo Klein Pageant titles include: Miss Gay Wis-USofA 1999 (1999).Pageant titles include: Miss Gay Wis-USofA At Large 2003 (2003). K Person Kellie Greene Pageant titles include: Miss Gay Wisconsin 1991-92 (1991-92) at Marc Plaza. Person · Milwaukee Kelly Kelly was a drag performer in Milwaukee. K Person Kelly Green Pageant titles include: Miss Gay Milwaukee WI-USA 1991-92 (1991-92). Person Ken Reed Ken Reed served on the 1989 Lavender Hill party planning committee. K Person Kenya Sanchez Pageant titles include: Miss Triangle 2008 (2008) at Triangle. K Person Kevin Kline Pageant titles include: Mr. Gay Wisconsin USofA 2002 (2002). Person · Milwaukee Kevin Rotar Over his years of service, he worked at the Wreck Room, Your Place, and Triangle, and Club 219, where he was working at the time of his death. Long time friends and customers recount that Kevin was so K Person Keyon St. James Pageant titles include: Mr. Triangle 2008 (2008) at Triangle. Person Kim (Kimberly) Anne Kimberly Ann was on the staff of In Step when that publication began operations in 1984. He became best known as the popular DJ "Kim" at various dance bars, including Factory, Club 219 and La Cage. K Person · Wausau Kitenah Kim Kitenah Kim was a drag performer in Wausau. Person · Madison Kristen Whitson LGBTQ Archives Advisory Panel, Wis. LGBTQ History Project Kristen (she/her) has a master's degree in Library and Information Science from the University of Wisconsin–Madison, and she has worked in dig Person · Milwaukee Krystal Styles Krystal Styles was a drag performer in Milwaukee. K Person Kyle-Ean Haggerty Pageant titles include: Mr. Gay Wisconsin USofA 1996 (1996). Person · Milwaukee Kylie West Pageant titles include: Miss Gay Wis-USofA 2000 (2000).Wisconsin USofA Preliminary Titles Held: Miss Racine - 1992 Miss Fox Valley - 1993 Miss Appleton - 1994 Miss Kenosha - 1995 Miss Emerald City - 1 Person · Madison Kyllie Stevens Madison's Newby into the Mathews Family! She's Bigger then Life and Eating Desiree out of the Buffet Queen Status! She can be found usually at Club 5 in Madison... Sometimes in the bushes!!! L Person · Milwaukee Lael Anthony MacLellan Lael Anthony MacLellan was recognized by the Milwaukee County Board of Supervisors in June 2023. L Person Lamarr Pageant titles include: Mr. Gay Wisconsin 1980-81 (1980-81) at Marc Plaza. L Person · Milwaukee Lana St. James Lana St. James was a drag performer in Milwaukee. Person Lanny Studdard According to a friend at the time, Lanny wouldn't say very much about his background except that he grew up in Mississippi. L Person · Appleton Larinda Pageant titles include: Queen of Queens 1984-85 (1984-85) at 1101 West, Appleton. L Person Larinda Kelly Pageant titles include: Miss Gay Wis-USofA 1991 (1991). L Person · Appleton Larry Pageant titles include: King of Kings 1984-85 (1984-85) at 1101 West, Appleton. L Person · Milwaukee Larry Fleege Larry Fleege co-owned the Milwaukee bar First Street Tavern with Leroy Stern, which the couple opened and lived behind in 1982. L Person · Milwaukee Larry Krueger Larry Krueger owned and operated Cafe Melange, a lounge, cabaret, and restaurant in Milwaukee's Hotel Wisconsin, from 1987 until its closing in 1997. Person · Milwaukee Laura Sutherland Laura Sutherland has been involved with various organizations over the years. In addition to lesbian groups, she was involved with the Milwaukee LGBT Community Center, and was one of the primary force L Person · Kenosha Layla DelRio Layla DelRio was a drag performer in Kenosha. L Person · Kenosha Layonna Kootch Layonna Kootch was a drag performer in Kenosha. Person · Milwaukee Lee Scherz Lee Scherz was active in Milwaukee's leather community in the late 1980s. L Person · Milwaukee Leo Peters He remained a partner in the business until owner Bob Schmidt bought out the partners by 1985. Person · Milwaukee Leon Rouse Passage of historic 1982 Wisconsin Gay Rights measure As of the anniversary of AB70 in 2012, Rouse is still living in his home state of Hawaii, and is said to occasionally visit relatives in Wisconsin Person Leonard J. Sobczak Activist Community Philanthropist LGBT periodical Publisher Real Estate In the 1980s, Leonard Sobczak was extremely active in the Cream City Business Association and other organizations, and was a fri L Person · Milwaukee Leroy Stern Leroy Stern co-owned the Milwaukee bar First Street Tavern with Larry Fleege, which the couple opened and lived behind in 1982. Person · Milwaukee Lewis Alfred Broyles, Reverend Rev. Lew Broyles died on Tuesday, 16-May-2005 of an apparent heart attack while in Mississippi. Person · Milwaukee Liberace Pianist Entertainer known worldwide as "Mr. Showmanship" Liberace was born Wladziu Valentino Liberace at 1649 60th Street, in West Allis, Wisconsin, on May 16, 1919, the survivor of twins. L Person · Kenosha Lily D'Lite Lily D'Lite was a drag performer in Kenosha. Person · Milwaukee Lily White She's been performing for 11 years, hosting pageants and emceeing shows. It all began in 1992, she gave her first performance: Diamonds Are A Girl's Best Friend, as Marilyn, for a friend's birthday pa L Person Lisa Spencer Pageant titles include: Miss Gay Wisconsin 1993-94 (1993-94) at Marc Plaza. Person · Milwaukee Loree Cook-Daniels A biographical panel was created by the Milwaukee LGBT History Project about Loree Cook-Daniels, and was featured in a display first appearing at PrideFest 2011. The text from that display is as follo L Person · Milwaukee Loren Buettner Loren Buettner was one of the founders of Loose Ends, a Milwaukee bar he opened with Karen and Harry Buettner on Fond du Lac Avenue in February 1986. L Person · Green Bay Loretta LaMour Pageant titles include: Miss Gay Wis-USofA 1996 (1996). Person Louis Stimac Community Activist Pioneering LGBTQ Historian Louis Stimac completely dedicated his life to community activism, equity, and advancement. He was Wisconsin's first true LGBTQ historian, teaching a ten-p L Person · Milwaukee Lusinda Andrews Lusinda Andrews was a drag performer in Milwaukee. Person · Wausau Lyle Duranceau In the late 1980s, when people say R-Bar in Wausau is the friendliest bar in the state, part of the reason was this one-man welcome wagon: Lyle Duranceau. Called the "Half Fast bartender", he would in Person · Milwaukee Mabel Meyers Leviash Mabel Meyers Leviash was their fiercest supporter and devoted caretaker. Over the span of her lifetime, she ran several hotels and defended the right of gay men to live and play in privacy. M Person Mahogony Pageant titles include: Miss Gay Wisconsin 1979-80 (1979-80) at Centre Stage. Person · Milwaukee Manonia Evans 1971) and died (unknown). A biographical panel was created by the Milwaukee LGBT History Project about Manonia Evans and Donna Burkett, and was featured in a display first appearing at PrideFest 2011. Person · Milwaukee Marc Haupert Marc's partner in the early-mid 1980s was Bobb Schendel, who bought and owned for a time the popular neighborhood gay bar The Finale on Center Street. In 1985, Marc met Kurt Swanson. Early history: Ac M Person · Milwaukee Margaret Daun Margaret Daun was recognized by the Milwaukee County Board of Supervisors in June 2023. M Person Margo Ruark Pageant titles include: Ms. Gay Madison 1986-87 (1986-87). Person · Milwaukee Marisabel Cabrera Marisabel Cabrera is a lawyer and Democratic politician from Milwaukee, Wisconsin. She is a member of the Wisconsin State Assembly, representing Wisconsin's 9th Assembly district since 2019. Person · Milwaukee Mark Behar In activist politics, Mark served on Governor Tony Earl's Council on Lesbian & Gay Issues in the mid 1980s, and helped guide the State's response to the HIV/AIDS, and gay & lesbian health issues. As a Person · Milwaukee Mark Hagenaka 'Dear Ruthie' or 'Ruthie Keester' Mark Hagen is best (almost entirely) known to the Wisconsin LGBTQ community as drag persona 'Dear Ruthie'. M Person Mark Hemmerlein Pageant titles include: Mr. Gay Wisconsin 1992-93 (1992-93) at Marc Plaza. M Person Mark Madison Pageant titles include: Mr. JoDees 2004 (2004) at JoDees. Person · Green Bay Mark Mariucci Bar owner Drag organizer Advisory Panel, Wis. LGBTQ History Project Mark Mariucci is a long-time who has been making Wisconsin LGBTQ history for decades. M Person · Madison Mark Pocan U.S. Representative; openly gay member of Congress from Wisconsin. Person · Milwaukee Mark Shepard Mark Shepard was active in Milwaukee's leather community in the late 1980s. Person · Milwaukee Martin C. Baum Martin C. (Marty) Baum was born in the Milwaukee area and spent most of his early years here, attending college here as well. After completing his education he spent a short time living in Atlanta. Up M Person · Milwaukee Marvin Klein Marvin Klein was the license holder of the Pink Glove, a short-lived 1958 Milwaukee gay bar that he and Harold Klein opened in a remodeled Broadway cocktail lounge. Person · Milwaukee Mary Richards More information on this performer is welcomed. M Person · Milwaukee Matthew Gorden Matthew Gorden owned the South 2nd Street building that housed several Milwaukee gay bars and was co-owner of Shadows II- The Top Shelf, which opened there in 1987. M Person · Milwaukee Megin McDonell Megin McDonell was recognized by the Milwaukee County Board of Supervisors in June 2023. Person · Milwaukee Mel Powelland partner Jerry Frelke (Powell) Mel Powelland partner Jerry Frelke (Powell) was a performer in Milwaukee. M Person Mi Ami Knight Pageant titles include: Miss Gay Wis-USofA 2012 (2012). M Person Mia Dumar Pageant titles include: Miss Gay Wis-USofA 2009 (2009). Person · Milwaukee Miami Richards Congratulations are in order for Miami, she is newly crowned Miss Rainbow Over Wisconsin USofA and 1st Alternate for Miss Gay Wisconsin USofA 2004. Congratulations! Person Michael D. Roberts Drag Performer, Business (restaurant) owner AIDS fundraiser Michael's purchase, remodeling and running of his Miss M's Walker's Point Cafe, the after-hours cafe on South 1st Street, became his life; i Person · Madison Michael Hanson Michael Hanson, affectionately dubbed "mother" by those who knew him, became a recognizable face in the La Crosse, Wisconsin LGBTQ community throughout the 1970s, 1980s and 1990s. He was out, open, an Person · Milwaukee Michael James Hinderer AIDS Prevention Activist Deaf community educator Michael Hinderer was a pioneer in AIDS prevention education in Wisconsin's Deaf community. Person · Milwaukee Michael Johnston a.k.a. 'Karen Valentine' Drag Performer Social columnist Bartender View the Images & Articles Gallery of Michael. M Person Michael K. Pageant titles include: Mr. Gay Wisconsin USofA 2000 (2000). Person · Milwaukee Michael Lisowski Community Activist Cable program Producer and Host Michael Lisowski is an best known for producing and hosting "The Queer Program", a cable access program in Milwaukee which held live news, interview Person · Milwaukee michael munson A biographical panel was created by the Milwaukee LGBT History Project about michael munson, and was featured in a display first appearing at PrideFest 2011. The text from that display is as follows: M Person · Milwaukee Michael Murray Michael Murray co-opened the PumpHouse, an LGBTQ bar in a converted Bay View pumping station, with David Skwarek in 2006. They sold the business in 2007. Person · Milwaukee Michail Takach Historian Activist Social Media management Photographer, Writer As a contributing writer to QLife News, QUEST and other publications, Michail is also an active producer for the Wisconsin LGBT History M Person · Milwaukee Michelle Murphy Michelle Murphy, a former bartender at Kathy's Nut Hut, purchased the Milwaukee bar around 2002 and ran it with her partner Dawn Musbach, shortening its name to the Nut Hut. They operated the women's Person Mike Fitzpatrick "20 Giving 20" was part of the AIDS Resource Center of Wisconsin's commemoration of its 20th anniversary combating the AIDS epidemic. View all 20 of those honored on the ARCW "20 giving 20" page. Mike Person Mike Murphy Mike Murphy met his future partner Dennis Wolke in February 1981. Mike had started bartending at C'est La Vie, then went over to Club 219. Both Mike and Dennis later worked as bartenders at LaCage, wh M Person · Milwaukee Mike Petri Mike Petri was a co-owner of the 1100 Club, a Milwaukee bar that operated from 1994 to 2003 and was popular with the city's leather community. Person Mike Phillips Mike Phillips served on the 1989 Lavender Hill party planning committee. M Person · Milwaukee Milton Rickun Milton Rickun is listed in Milwaukee city directories as the owner or licensee of the French Quarter bar in the late 1960s. M Person Mini Marks Pageant titles include: Miss Gay Wisconsin 1989-90 (1989-90) at Marc Plaza. Person Miriam Ben Shalom Gay Rights Activism in the Military Lesbian Activism View a Picture & Article Gallery of Miriam's life and career. Person · Milwaukee Miriam Frink Miriam Frink was born in Elkhart, Indiana, where her father was a local physician. Her mother was liberal beyond her time – and inspired Miriam to be an open-minded, progressive, and critical thinker. M Person Misha Mahon Pageant titles include: Miss Triangle 2006 (2006) at Triangle. M Person · Milwaukee Miss M. Pageant titles include: Miss Gay Wisconsin 1987-88 (1987-88) at Marc Plaza. M Person · Kenosha Monique Marquette Monique Marquette was a drag performer in Kenosha. Person · Milwaukee Natasha Marques She has a busy and hectic schedule with her regular life so we don't get to enjoy her talent and company nearly as much as we'd like. When she does arrive however, she pulls out all the stops! Person · Milwaukee Natasha Simms Natasha Simms - Now here's an interesting study! Originally from the Dairyland state...then off to Texas and back to Wisconsin! Natasha doesn't do the pageant circuit on stage - she prefers of late to N Person · Milwaukee Nate Fried Nate Fried was a co-founder and owner of the Hybrid Lounge on Brady Street in Milwaukee, which he opened in 2010 with Bill Lison and owned solely after 2014. Person · Milwaukee Nate Koch Nate Koch was recognized by the Milwaukee County Board of Supervisors in June 2023. Person · Madison Nathan Imig Media professional Advisory Panel, Wis. LGBTQ History Project Nathan Imig is a lifelong Wisconsinite and media professional committed to amplifying the state's LGBTQ+ history. N Person Neely O'Hara Pageant titles include: Miss Gay Wis-USofA 1998 (1998). Person · Milwaukee Neil Albrecht Community Activist Milwaukee LGBT Community Center AIDS Resource Center of Wisconsin Neil Albrecht came out in 1983, and has been a driving force in Milwaukee LGBT life for most of the time since. N Person · Milwaukee Nicholas Marmigas Nicholas Marmigas operated the Legion Bar at 745 N. 6th Street in Milwaukee through the 1940s, an early and discreet gathering place for gay men. Person · Milwaukee Nicole More information about this performer is welcomed. N Person Nicole Saunders Pageant titles include: Miss Gay Wisconsin 1985-86 (1985-86) at Marc Plaza. N Person · Milwaukee Niko Stathis Niko Stathis owned Niko's, a short-lived bar on Milwaukee's south side in the early 1980s, and was a longtime part of the city's gay community. Person · Milwaukee Nile Sandeen "20 Giving 20" was part of the AIDS Resource Center of Wisconsin's commemoration of its 20th anniversary combating the AIDS epidemic. View all 20 of those honored on the ARCW "20 giving 20" page. Nile N Person · Milwaukee Norman J. Komassa Norman J. Komassa was listed as the owner of the Forum, a Milwaukee gay bar at 12th and Vine Streets, in a mid-1960s city directory. N Person · Milwaukee Norman Ver Bruggen Norman Ver Bruggen owned the Wildwood, a Milwaukee lesbian bar, from 1959 until he sold it in early 1963. He held interests in several inner-city taverns and was later convicted in a 1963 robbery spre Person · Milwaukee Nova D'Vine Nova D'Vine - She's been around a while and is still one of the top acts in the Cream City! A while back, Miss D'Vine was the State Title Holder for Miss EOY (Entertainer of the Year) and Miss Wiscons Person · Milwaukee One Milwaukee gay man's collection of Charles Dix art One Milwaukee gay man's collection of Charles Dix artTM Artwork Charles Dix Themes: Spacecraft Desert Sentinel Lily pads Peonies Wall strips Watercolor High-texture Acrylic Miscellaneous paintings Don O Person · Wausau Ophelia Junque Ophelia Junque was a drag performer in Wausau. O Person · Milwaukee Otto Schuler After that building was demolished, he relocated the business, opening a new Seaway restaurant and the bar Jamie's on South 2nd Street. He died in November 1973. P Person Parker Christan Pageant titles include: Mr. Gay Wisconsin 1994-95 (1994-95) at Marc Plaza. Person · Milwaukee Patrick Batt He was heavily involved in the Gay Peoples' Union (GPU), including serving for a time as Chairperson of the Board of Directors of GPU. He was also a friend of Robert Uyvari, Milwaukee's premier artist Person · Milwaukee Patrick Johnson Advocate of LGBTQ representation in Journalism Advisory Panel, Wis. LGBTQ History Project P Person · Milwaukee Patrick Prudlow Patrick Prudlow was one of four friends who opened the Milwaukee bar 3B's in 1991. P Person Patsy Parks Pageant titles include: Miss Gay Wisconsin 1980-81 (1980-81) at Marc Plaza. P Person Patti Cakes Pageant titles include: Miss Gay Continental Wisconsin 1985-86 (1985-86). Person · Milwaukee Paul DeMarco He moved to Milwaukee to manage the local Club Bath from the time it opened in July 1974. Once in Milwaukee, Paul became very active in the community. He served as President of the Gay Peoples Union ( P Person Paul Zinthefer Pageant titles include: Mr. Groovy Guy 1977-78 (1977-78) at Centre Stage. P Person Peaches Toy Pageant titles include: Miss Black Milwaukee 1971-76 (1971-76). P Person · Milwaukee Pete Nilsson Pete Nilsson, with Bev Nilsson, operated the Leaded Shade bar in the 1970s and went on to own the Milwaukee women's bar Lost & Found. P Person Peter Pageant titles include: Mr. Gay S.E. Wisconsin 1986-87 (1986-87). P Person · Milwaukee Peter Antross Peter Antross operated Sally's Cocktail Bar in Milwaukee and, after being required to rename it as a condition of a 1944 tavern license, ran it as the Gaytime Bar with his brother George. He died in 1 Person · Milwaukee Peter Burgelis Politician- First openly LGBT Milw County Supervisor Mortgage Professional Peter Burgelis is the first openly LGBT person elected to the Milwaukee County Board of Supervisors, elected to represent Mil Person · Milwaukee Peter Case Hair Designer Dancer, Club 219 Volunteer, BESTD Clinic Peter Case Peter lived in Milwaukee from 1982 to 1990, where he worked as a hair designer and as a dancer at Club 219. He also volunteered at the Person Peter Havens, "20 Giving 20" was part of the AIDS Resource Center of Wisconsin's commemoration of its 20th anniversary combating the AIDS epidemic. View all 20 of those honored on the ARCW "20 giving 20" page. Pete P Person Peter Johnson 1987. Peter Johnson was very active in the Cream City Business Association. and the Cream City Foundation, serving on its Board of Directors in the mid 1980s. Person · Milwaukee Peter Neubert Peter Neubert was active in Milwaukee's leather community in the late 1980s. P Person · Appleton Peter Steinfort (or Robert?) Pageant titles include: King of Kings 1985-86 (1985-86) at 1101 West, Appleton. P Person Phil Stevens Pageant titles include: Mr. Triangle 2002 (2002) at Triangle. P Person · Milwaukee Phillip Bailey Phillip Bailey was recognized by the Milwaukee County Board of Supervisors in June 2023. Person · Milwaukee Queerscout Dennis LeRoy Bunch was active in various aspects of the community. We have thus far located articles mentioning his work to help with a phone fundraising drive for the PrideFest group, and he is liste R Person · Green Bay Rachel Vanders Rachel Vanders was a drag performer in Green Bay. R Person · Milwaukee Ralph F. Navarro Ralph Navarro was an outspoken activist in Milwaukee gay life of the 1970s through the late 1990s. He was active in Gay People's Union, the Cream City Business Association (CCBA), a founding member of Person · Milwaukee Ralph Kerwineo Ralph Kerwineo was arrested by Milwaukee police. The official charge was disorderly conduct, but the accusation was that he was biologically, in fact, a she. Person · Milwaukee Ralph Navarro- death notice: InStep, June 14, 2001 Milwaukee � Ralph F. Navarro, a prominent gay activist in Milwaukee and Wisconsin over the past 20 years, passed away on June 1 at the age of 51. Navarro died in his Milwaukee home after a battle with Person · Milwaukee Ralph-Paul Gernhardt Ralph-Paul Gernhardt (publishing mostly under the name "Ralph Paul"), was the founder and publisher of many gay-oriented periodicals in the Midwest. Ralph's career is probably best summarized by the f Person Randy Frank Randy Frank was a very popular bartender at the M&M Club bar in the 1980s and 1990s. Person · Milwaukee Randy Rosploch Randy Rosploch was well known in Milwaukee's gay community, where he was socially active for over 10 years, having worked at various gay oriented business including Club Baths Milwaukee. R Person Randy Wray Pageant titles include: Mr. JoDees 2003 (2003) at JoDees. R Person Raphael Pageant titles include: Mr. Groovy Guy 1978-79 (1978-79) at Centre Stage. R Person · Milwaukee Ray Arce Ray Arce co-founded Woody's Bar in Milwaukee in 1997 with Steve Behl, and was interviewed about the bar's plans in the gay press ahead of its opening. R Person · Madison Ray Jacobson Ray Jacobson opened Ray's Bar & Grill in Madison, Wisconsin in December 1992. Over roughly fourteen years he operated the business through several relocations and name changes—including Geraldine's (n R Person Ray Valask Pageant titles include: Mr. Gay Wisconsin 1983-84 (1983-84) at Marc Plaza. Person Raymond Bachhuber, "20 Giving 20" was part of the AIDS Resource Center of Wisconsin's commemoration of its 20th anniversary combating the AIDS epidemic. View all 20 of those honored on the ARCW "20 giving 20" page. Raym Person · Milwaukee Raymond Vahey Ray Vahey and Richard Taylor were a gay couple, partners from 1956 until 2006, when Taylor passed away at the age of 81, of cancer. Vahey spent most of his career in communications; by the age of 30 h R Person · Milwaukee Reginald LeClaire Reginald LeClaire operated the Bull Ring, a discreet gay bar near Milwaukee's Mount Sinai Hospital, from about 1953 to 1962. Person · Milwaukee Ric Sullivan Ric Sullivan's hometown was South Bend, Indiana (IN), he originally grew up in Cleveland, Ohio area. He loved Green Bay and Milwaukee, and was elected Mr. Northwoods 1999-2000 by Argonauts leather clu Person · Milwaukee Ricardo (Ric) Correa Ricardo (Ric) Correa worked as a waiter most of his adult life, but was a gifted artist, avid reader, and a very creative home interior designer. He was also a business owner (part owner of Grand Aven R Person · Madison Ricardo Gonzalez Ricardo Gonzalez opened the Cardinal Bar in Madison, Wisconsin in 1974 and operated it for most of its history until its closure in 2017. He developed the venue into one of the city's leading dance cl Person · Milwaukee Richard Allen Kowal Richard Allen Kowal is best known by members of the LGBT community in Milwaukee as the owner of the 'Ballgame' bar for over 30 years. Michail Takach wrote the following summary of Rick's career as a b Person · Milwaukee Richard Beaudoin Richard Beaudoin was recalled as a bridge-builder and advocate for Gays and Lesbians. His colleague Gary Hollander told the Milwaukee Journal: "At a large medical center, it might be easy to assume th Person · Milwaukee Richard K. Bjurstrom Milwaukean Richard Bjurstrom joined Bill Mole in his 25,000 mile walk around the world to raise money for AIDS. Bjorstrum served as advance publicity agent in 1990, setting up interviews in advance of R Person · Milwaukee Richard Shannon Richard (Dick) Shannon operated the Regency East Lounge, a Milwaukee gay bar on North Water Street, from 1965 through the end of the decade. Person · Milwaukee Richard Taylor Richard Taylor and Ray Vahey were a gay couple, partners from 1956 until 2006, when Richard passed away at the age of 81. According to partner Vahey's recollections, recounted in an article in the Mil R Person Rick Pageant titles include: Mr. Gay Wisconsin 1981-82 (1981-82) at Marc Plaza. R Person · Milwaukee Rick Banks Rick Banks was recognized by the Milwaukee County Board of Supervisors in June 2023. Person · Milwaukee Rick Chris Shortly afterward, Rick started his own gay publication: GLIB. Rick recalls the experience: "I was a pioneering gay publisher back in the mid-70s. Bad idea on my part and the paper only lasted a few i R Person · Milwaukee Rick Kowal Rick Kowal (Richard Kowal) co-founded the Ball Game, a Milwaukee gay bar, with Gene O'Brien in 1974. After O'Brien's death in 1985, Kowal continued to operate the bar on his own for nearly three decad Person · Milwaukee Rick Stevens Richard D. Stevens, known to his friends as Rick, was born January 18,1953 in Sheboygan. He died in the early hours of Sunday, March 30, 2008 in Sarasota, Florida. Rick spent most of his early adult l R Person · Milwaukee Rob Bruckner Rob Bruckner owned the Milwaukee gay bar Triangle from about 1995 to 2000, succeeding founder Al Thomas. R Person Robert Pageant titles include: Mr. Gay Wisconsin 1985-86 (1985-86) at Marc Plaza. Person · Milwaukee Robert Anthony Uyvari Robert A. Uyvari was a well known gay lifestyle artist in the midwest and San Francisco, and became internationally known by the cover art displayed in "Places of Interest Map Guide Book" for three ye Person · Milwaukee Robert Bennett Rivers Jr. aka Bobby Rivers Robert Bennett Rivers Jr., widely known as Bobby Rivers, was born in Los Angeles on September 20, 1953, coming to Milwaukee in 1972 to attend Marquette University. His life and career are well summari Person · Milwaukee Robert D. Arnold Cartoon artist, Poet Robert D. Arnold's popular "Life's a Drag" cartoon was published in In Step for over ten years. Person · Milwaukee Robert R. Panasuk Robert R. (Randy) Panasuck was born in Connecticut, and moved to Milwaukee in 1975. For over seven years, Randy (a.k.a. Ruth Ann) had been a bartender/ waiter at the M&M Club/ Glass Menagerie restaura Person · Milwaukee Robert Starshak, M.D. Dr. Robert Starshak and Ross Draegert are two names that Milwaukee will likely never forget. Their community involvement spans decades, and includes both extensive community service roles, and signifi Person Robert Uyvari Robert Uyvari is part of Wisconsin LGBTQ history. R Person · Milwaukee Robert Wisler Dr. Robert Wisler was a native of Milwaukee and attended medical school at the Medical School of Wisconsin. He was a highly regarded anesthesiologist in Milwaukee. As a physician practicing in Brookfi R Person · Madison Rodney Scheel Rodney Scheel was a Madison, Wisconsin bar owner and a significant figure in the city's LGBTQ business history during the 1970s through the 1990s. He was a proprietor of the Back Door (opened 1972) an Person Roger A. Gremminger Physician Long-time volunteer to BESTD Clinic Philanthropist Dr. Roger Gremminger's professional and volunteer career began in 1978. In his own words (as published in the first article he contributed Person · Madison Roland Richard (Dick) Wagner Activist/ Scholar/ Author Politician- Madison County Board Scholar and activist Roland Richard "Dick" Wagner was the first openly gay member of the Dane County Board of Supervisors, where he served fo Person Ron Geiman Ron Geiman is part of Wisconsin LGBTQ history. Person · Milwaukee Ron Thate, aka 'Rona' Bartender Drag Performer View the Images & Articles Gallery of Rona. R Person · Milwaukee Rona 'Miss Rona' Pageant titles include: Miss Gay Wisconsin 1981-82 (1981-82) at Marc Plaza. Person · Milwaukee Ronald F. Geiman Newspaper/ media publisher and contributor Ron Geiman was the subject of an interview by the Milwaukee LGBT History Project early in 2003, and was featured in a display first appearing at PrideFest 20 Person · Milwaukee Ronnie Grace Ronnie Grace was a significant leader in the BIPOC, transgender and HIV/AIDS care communities in Milwaukee. Person · Milwaukee Ronnie Rivera Ronnie Rivera was recognized by the Milwaukee County Board of Supervisors in June 2023. R Person Rosa Riviera Pageant titles include: Miss Gay Madison 1985-86 (1985-86). Person · Milwaukee Ross Draegert Ross Draegert and Dr. Robert Starshak are two names that Milwaukee will likely never forget. Their community involvement spans decades, and includes both extensive community service roles, and signifi Person · Milwaukee Ross Walker View the Erv Uecker and Ross Walker Images & Articles Gallery of articles and photos from LGBT media referencing Ross and Erv. Ross Walker was half of the couple known around Milwaukee as "Erv and Ros Person · Milwaukee Rudolpho Rogelio Jr. transitioning and performing as Rudi D'Angelo (The following are excerpts from a biography of close friends Jackie Roberts and Rudi D'Angelo by Michail Takach for this website in 2023.) Rudi D'Angelo was born Rudolpho Rogelio Jr. She became close Person · Milwaukee Rudy More information about this performer is welcomed. Person · Madison Salmonella Suzie Sasquatch Salmonella Suzie Sasquatch (otherwise known as S.Suzie S. - Professional Goddess from Madison) is one of Madison's favorite performers and entertainers. Frequently at the microphone for numerous chari S Person · Milwaukee Sam Mazur Sam Mazur opened the Oregon House at 235 S. 2nd Street in 1976, the first of many LGBTQ businesses to occupy that Milwaukee address. S Person · Kenosha Samantha D'Carlo Samantha D'Carlo was a drag performer in Kenosha. Person · Milwaukee Samantha Stevens (Sam Saglin) Personality: Pageant Queen Drag Show Producer Born 'Sam Saglin' in 1950, he became widely known as 'Samantha Stevens', entering drag queen pageants in Milwaukee, Ohio and San Francisco, and eventually S Person Sandi Alexander Pageant titles include: Miss Gay Milwaukee 1973-74 (1973-74) at Factory. Person · Milwaukee Sarah Wallish After growing up in small-town central Wisconsin, Sarah Wallisch came to Milwaukee to attend UWM. As a young adult, Sarah felt pretty disconnected from the local LGBT community, but also felt hungry f Person · Milwaukee Sasha Mitchell Sasha Mitchell has done it all! One of our very first Miss Gay Wisconsin USofA winners and numerous other titles, she continues to be a sought after performer in the Milwaukee area. She has performed S Person · Appleton Sass DuBois Pageant titles include: Queen of Queens 1985-86 (1985-86) at 1101 West, Appleton. S Person Saundra Peron Pageant titles include: Miss Gay Wausau WI-USA 1990-91 (1990-91) at Masquers. Person · Milwaukee Savannah She doesn't get out much! This long reigning Miss LaCage wows them on stage and has a legion of supporters that follows her where ever she might wind up! Love the crown, girl! S Person Scott Sowlles Pageant titles include: Mr. Gay Wisconsin 1987-88 (1987-88) at Marc Plaza. Person Scott Stokes Scott Stokes was Director of Prevention Services with the AIDS Resource Center of Wisconsin (ARCW). S Person · Milwaukee Serge Bellitelli Serge Bellitelli co-founded the Milwaukee bar Kruz in 2006 with his partner Jerry Breiling, and continued to operate it after Breiling's death in 2023. Person · Milwaukee Shannon DuPree The following information is largely from the former "DairylandDrag website circa 2004 (that site, www.dairylanddrag.net, no longer exists). S Person Shanti Pageant titles include: Miss Gay Continental Wisconsin 1986-87 (1986-87) at Club 219. Person · Milwaukee Sharon Bumps Who would have guessed that Sharon Bumps would be the hottest ticket in town? Her adoring fans, that's who! Sharon has made quite a splash for herself as one of the biggest acts at Club219. Sharon's b S Person · Milwaukee Sharon Dixon Washington Street in the early 1980s and operated a succession of venues at that address, the last of which was Studio 200 (2011–2018). Person Sharon Otto Sharon Otto was elected as President of the ARCW (AIDS Resource Center of Wisconsin) in 1990, the 2nd person to hold that position in the organization's 5 years history (succeeding Marc Haupert). Shar Person · Milwaukee Shirley A. Fitzpatrick (Shirley Fitzpatrick was the subject of an interview by the Milwaukee LGBT History Project early in 2003, and was featured in a display first appearing at PrideFest 2003.) Fitzpatrick created, and rel S Person · Milwaukee Si Smits Si Smits was the owner and operator of the Boot Camp Saloon, a Milwaukee levi/leather bar he ran from 1984 until the building was destroyed by fire in 2011. He was known for hosting frequent community S Person Sidney Johnson Pageant titles include: Miss Black Gay Wisconsin 1991-92 (1991-92). S Person · Milwaukee Sophie Uzelac After the city shut the bar down, she was barred from operating a business in Milwaukee. S Person Starr E. Night Pageant titles include: Miss Club 94 1993-94 (1993-94) at Club 94. Person · Milwaukee Stephanie Hume Organizational Leadership Police liaison Advocate Advisory Panel, Wis. LGBTQ History Project Stephanie joined the Advisory Panel of the Wisconsin LGBTQ History Project in November 2023. Person · Milwaukee Stephen Andre Walther 14, 1977. Stephen Andre Walther graduated from the University of Wisconsin- Stevens Point in 1971, and attended Holy Cross Seminary in La Crosse before moving to Milwaukee. Walther became one of the e S Person · Milwaukee Steve Behl Steve Behl co-founded Woody's Bar in Milwaukee in 1997 with Ray Arce. He championed the idea of a gay sports bar, installing a large-screen television to draw crowds for Packers games. S Person · Milwaukee Steve Byers Steve Byers was a business owner in Milwaukee. Person · Milwaukee Steve Schaffer Historian/ Archivist Advisory Panel, Wis. LGBTQ History Project Steve Schaffer is the lead archivist at the Milwaukee County Historical Society. Steve received his Master of Library and Information Sc Person · Milwaukee Steve Steinhauer Steve Steinhauer was the founder of an annual garden party to benefit AIDS causes, called the Lavender Hill garden party. The first such party was held in 1984, and the last party was held in the earl Person · Appleton Steve Tucker Steve Tucker was the winner of the "Mr. 1101 West" contest in mid-1984. (1101 West was a bar in Appleton.) Person · Milwaukee Steven B. Campbell Steven B. Campbell passed away on September 28, 1990. He was survived by his mother, brothers, sisters, nephews, nieces and many friends in Sparta, La Crosse and Milwaukee. A memorial service was held S Person Steven Lloyd Pageant titles include: Mr. Club Wisconsin USofA At-Large 2004 (2004). Person · Milwaukee Sue Black Sue Black gained the spotlight as an open lesbian figure with her appointment first as State Parks Director, and then as Director of the Milwaukee County Park System. Person Sue Burke Sue Burke served on Governor Tony Earl's Council on Lesbian and Gay Issues, in the mid-1980s. In 1984 she received the Cream City Business Asscoiation's "Pace Setter award", "presented to the gay woma Person · Milwaukee Sue Cook (Susan Cook was the subject of an interview by the Milwaukee LGBT History Project early in 2003, and was featured in a display first appearing at PrideFest 2003, excerpts of which appear below.) She g Person · Milwaukee Susan Dietz Susan Dietz (known while in Milwaukee as 'Sue') was a groundbreaking worker at the 'Brady East STD Clinic' (BESTD Clinic), helping to form and then running the 'Milwaukee AIDS Project' (MAP) and then S Person · Milwaukee Symone Symone was a drag performer in Milwaukee. T Person T.C. Hammond Pageant titles include: Mr. Gay Wisconsin USofA 1999 (1999). Person · Madison Tammy Baldwin Tammy Baldwin is a prominent Wisconsin politician who has been openly lesbian virtually her entire career. Her public career began in Madison as a Dane County Supervisor. She then ran for and won a se T Person Tammy Faye Pageant titles include: Miss Club 5 1999 (1999) at Club 5. T Person Tania Michaels (aka Tonya) Pageant titles include: Miss Gay Wis-USofA 1989-90 (1989-90).Pageant titles include: Miss Gay Fox Valley 1986-87 (1986-87) at Pivot Club. Person · Milwaukee Taylor Roberts Taylor has made quite a name for herself in the short time that she's been involved in the circuit. A native of Chicago she performs at Charlie's, Hydrate and various other establishments. All this is Person · Milwaukee Tempest Heat aka Jonathan Carthell Hughlett Drag performer Advocate, Black Queer inclusion Advisory Panel, Wis. LGBTQ History Project Tempest Heat has been a staple in the Wisconsin Drag community for over 20 years. Tempest was an advocate and T Person Terry Pageant titles include: Mr. Gay Wisconsin 1982-83 (1982-83) at Marc Plaza. Person · Milwaukee Terry Boughner Author Historian Editor, 'Wisconsin Light' newspaper Dr. Terry Boughner was editor and co-owner of the Wisconsin Light newspaper from its founding in 1987 until 1998. Boughner also authored a book, "O T Person Terry Nichol Pageant titles include: Mr. Gay Madison 1985-86 (1985-86). Person · Racine Thomas Pawzun Thomas Charles Pawzun (widely known as 'Thom') of Racine WI was an artist and worked to create displays for various retail businesses. He did five artwork pieces for covers of 'In Step' magazine (two Person · Milwaukee Tiffany Thomas Founding member of 'The Hive' Advisory Panel, Wis. LGBTQ History Project Tiffany Thomas is a Milwaukee native who currently serves the City of Milwaukee's Department of Employee Relations. Tiffany is Person · Milwaukee Tim Baack Tim Baack was recognized by the Milwaukee County Board of Supervisors in June 2023. Person · Racine Tim Bowen Sign language interpreter Tim Bowen Tim attended UW-Parkside as a computer science major, and then attended UW-Milwaukee's Sign Language Interpreting program. Tim also volunteered as a helpline operat Person · Milwaukee Tim Carpenter, "20 Giving 20" was part of the AIDS Resource Center of Wisconsin's commemoration of its 20th anniversary combating the AIDS epidemic. View all 20 of those honored on the ARCW "20 giving 20" page. Tim Person Tim Kraetsch Tim Kraetsch helped create the "Make A Promise" fundraising dinner for ARCW (AIDS Resource Center of Wisconsin). He also served for a time on the Lavender Hill party planning committee. Person · Milwaukee Timothy E. Mande aka 'Mandi McCall' Drag performer Mandi McCall Timothy Mande was best known as drag performer 'Mandi McCall'. T Person Tina Pageant titles include: Miss Gay Wisconsin 1978-79 (1978-79) at Centre Stage. Person · Milwaukee Tina Renea Tina is also the most sought after source for gals going to competition. Her unique gowns are designed and created by her - her hair is more sought after than gold bullion, and her advice and comments T Person · Green Bay Tippi Tippi was a drag performer in Green Bay. Person · Milwaukee Tom Boll In addition to helping create the "Make A Promise" fundraising dinner for ARCW, he also served for a time on the Lavender Hill party planning committee. Tom was also active in other community organiza Person · Milwaukee Tom Butenhoff Tom (aka Thom) Butenhoff was part of Milwaukee's gay social scene in the late 1960s and early 1970s. He moved away from Wisconsin in 1974, but has fond memories of his time here. He contributes the fo Person · Milwaukee Tom Martin Thomas E. Martin was a native of Milwaukee, generally known as a brilliant man. He attended the University School of Miwlaukee before going on to graduate Phi Beta Kappa from Brown University, and the Person Tom Rezza During that time, he did the artwork for many covers, and in almost every issue, his "Gay Side" cartoon appeared as well. View the Cover Galleries of In Step magazine (primarily volumes 1 thru 10) to Person · Milwaukee Tom Theis Tom was a sportsman for all seasons, actively supporting the Packers, Brewers, Badgers and Warriors. But softball was his first love. Tom was co-founder of the Saturday Softball Beer League (SSBL) in Person Tony A. Keil Tony was a popular bartender at various local gay bars, including the Red Baron, Circus, Factory, and Club 219. Person · Milwaukee Tony Aiello Disc Jockey (DJ) Business (bar) management Visit Tony's personal web site at this link (will open in a separate browser window). T Person · Milwaukee Tony Machi Tony Machi took over Milwaukee's Riviera cocktail lounge around 1951, operating it as "Tony's Riviera," regarded as the city's premier gay bar of the 1950s, until a fire destroyed it in 1964. He later T Person · Milwaukee Tony Snell Rodriguez Tony Snell Rodriguez was recognized by the Milwaukee County Board of Supervisors in June 2023. T Person Topher Chase Pageant titles include: Mr. Triangle 2006 (2006) at Triangle. T Person Traci Ross Pageant titles include: Miss Club 219 2003 (2003) at Club 219. T Person · Milwaukee Tracy Michaels Tracy Michaels was a drag performer in Milwaukee. Person · Madison Trinity Scott Mathews Trinity has been a well known entertainer in Madison where you can often catch her at her favorite haunt - Club 5. She is very goal oriented and looks forward to the coming pageant season to add a few Person · Milwaukee Tuna More information about this performer is welcomed. Person · Milwaukee Tyrone King Organization Advocate DJ at LGBTQ events Advisory Panel, Wis. LGBTQ History Project 'Ty' King came out at age 14 and became a DJ at age 17. He's been involved with multiple LGBTQ community organizatio Person Ulysses Swanson Independent LGBTQ Scholar Advisory Panel, Wis. LGBTQ History Project Primary Location: Western Wisconsin Ulysses Swanson is an independent scholar with a passion for LGBTQ history and its accessibilit Person · Milwaukee Vanessa More information about this performer is welcomed. V Person Vanessa Alexandre Pageant titles include: Miss Gay Wisconsin 1990-91 (1990-91) at Marc Plaza. V Person · Green Bay Venus Love Venus Love was a drag performer in Green Bay. Person · La Crosse Victor M. Macias-Gonzalez Professor of History, UW-La Crosse Advisory Panel, Wis. LGBTQ History Project Victor joined the Advisory Panel of the Wisconsin LGBTQ History Project in November 2023. V Person Vince Cortese Pageant titles include: Mr. Gay Madison 1984-85 (1984-85) at UW Memorial Union Commons. Person · Milwaukee Vincent C. Heflin Vincent was a volunteer for MLGPC (Milwaukee Lesbian/Gay Pride Committee, the precursor to PrideFest) in 1990-1991, and also was a Mass Pageant Productions Committee member. W Person · Milwaukee Wade Twamley Wade Twamley managed JC's Rainbow Bar and went on to open and operate the Rainbow Revue in 1991. He later donated photo albums documenting both bars to the UWM Archives' LGBT Collection. W Person · Milwaukee Wally Whetham Wally Whetham operated several early Milwaukee gay-friendly taverns, including the Black Nite, its renamed successor the Bourbon Beat, and the Captain's Cabin. His run of bar businesses ended with a b Person Warren Breitlow Community Activist Philanthropist Photographer Warren Breitlow for many years ran the Breitlow Photography Studio in Wauwatosa, doing an business in portraits for families, weddings, school portraits, W Person · Milwaukee Warren O'Connor After Warren's death (around 1990), his mansion was sold by the family, which was largely in denial of his sexual preference. Any additional information about this person is welcome. W Person · Milwaukee Wayne Bernhagen Wayne Bernhagen co-founded Milwaukee's Wreck Room bar in 1972 and was active in the city's leather community and gay softball, helping organize the Wreck Room Classic tournament. He died of AIDS in 19 W Person · Milwaukee Wilbert German Wilbert German bought the Wildwood in early 1963 and ran it as German's Wildwood, a butch lesbian bar, until it closed in 1964. Person William (Bill) Wood Bill was the Assistant Pathfinder (Vice President) of the Oberons Levi-Leather Club, and an associate member of Panther L/L of Atlanta; Knights of Leather and the Blackguard of Minneapolis; Alliance o W Person · Madison William Attewell William Attewell was born in Madison, Wisconsin in June of 1961. W Person William Edwards Bill Edwards was shot and killed during an attempted armed robbery at a popular northwest neighborhood gay bar, Loose Ends. W Person · Milwaukee William Mansfield William Mansfield operated the Clifton Tap, a small tavern in Milwaukee's Clifton House Hotel and one of the city's earliest known gay bars. W Person · Milwaukee Wilma Fingerdoo Wilma Fingerdoo was a drag performer in Milwaukee. W Person Wy Nonna Pageant titles include: Miss Gay Wis-USofA 2014 (2014).