THE ONLY MAGAZINE CREATED FOR & BY COMEDIANS
SEESTANDUP.COM MAGAZINE Staying Positive in Comedy
Anthony Bonazzo Windy City Cigar Lounge Is The Place
Chicago Has A King Of Comedy
DAMON WILLIAMS The Beginning Issue | SeeStandup.com
1
2
SeeStandup.com
TABLE OF CONTENTS
10
Damon Williams: The King of Chicago Comedy
DEPARTMENTS 12.
NIGHTLIFE
Heaven- Windy City Cigar Lounge is worth the drive
15 FINE DINING Jilly’s Pure Romance 16 OPEN TAB God of Fire | Malbec 20 07
ADVERTISE WITH US Evanston Magazine is part of the marketing system to bring your product to the Northshore.
SAYING GOODBYE Vincent Hickney (RIP)
FEATURES
ALEX ORTIZ Hilarious And On His Way
10
MARK SIMMONS Four Important Facts
18.
JACKIE MASON A Well Deserved Tribute
Copyright Evanston Magazine, all rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without written permission from Evanston Magazine. Photoe courtasy of inernet, Facebook and Google per fair use laws.
Circulated throughout the North Shore with a focus core of Evanston. The great city leading the country toward a more equitable future.
For more information on forthcoming deadlines or to book a space in a future magazine. Call 773-441-4044 or sales@evanstonmagazine.net
The Beginning Issue | SeeStandup.com
3
Editor’s Letter As the Philistine started forward to attack him, David ran quickly toward the battle line to meet him. Then David reached into his bag, took out a stone, and slung it, striking the Philistine on the forehead. The stone sank into his forehead, and he fell facedown on the ground. Thus David prevailed over the Philistine with a sling and a stone; without a sword in his hand, he struck down the Philistine and killed him. (Samuel 17:48)
The above quote symbolizes the effort to overcome any challenge using faith and hard work. I realize that post-COVID-19 is probably going to be harder than going through COVID-19. Some of the same symptoms of insecurity, and confusion are apparent. There may not be the looming threat of death but there’s still an uncertain end. This is the first issue of what I believe will be an incredible asset and addition to the comedy world in the Chicago area I am very proud even though it took me longer than I thought it should have taken me the magazine is full of direct Chicago comedy history starting off celebrating the advancement of one of Chicago’s top Latino performers Alex Ortiz who has now received lots of accolades leading to a manager and an agency that will only expand his brand to the level of greatness he deserves the magazine also pays homage to Mark Simmons one of the comedians you’ll see if you book a cruise and one of Chicago’s most underrated and highly talented comedians what’s most special about this is it pays homage to 2 of Chicago’s of comedies children one famous in Jackie Mason and one not so famous and and honoring Vincent hickeys life both we lost. Please take the time to enjoy some of the other aspects of this magazine that make it special open Tab and fine dining are two things you don’t necessarily think about when you think of comedians however we do come with a certain style and Flair and this will show it and prove it thank you for taking the time out to read this magazine please write to me and let me know how you enjoy it
Publisher Editor In Chief Aaron Foster
In Partnership Evanston Woman Magazine IG: evanston_woman FB: evanstonwoman Seestandup.com Contributing Writers
Dobie Maxwell Damon Williams Alex Ortiz Anthony Bonazzo Demona Hoffman Linda Del Bosque Photographers Jeremy Pardoe Karen Kring Robert Vega
Marketing Director Erik Hulon - Account Executive
Aaron Foster Publisher/ Editor in Chief
Seestandup. com Magazine EVANSTON Magazine
4
SeeStandup.com
STAY IN TOUCH afoster@evanstonmagazine.net FB.com/EvanstonMagazine IG evanstonmanmagazine Phone Number 773.441.4044
© Evanston Magazine, All Rights Reserve
Now Touring
Live Exceptional. Every Day.
BY SOLERA SENIOR LIVING
INDEPENDENT LIVING | ASSISTED LIVING | MEMORY CARE
The Beginning Issue | SeeStandup.com
5
6
SeeStandup.com
Hilarious and on my way
Alex Ortiz One of most sought-after comedians working today. He has both headlined and featured at the Apollo, Funny Bones, and more famous comedy venues in various major cities across the U.S. Over the years, Alex has shared the stage with the late Bernie Mac, Damon Wayans, Eddie Griffin, D.L. Hughley, and Bobcat Goldthwait, just to name a few. Aside from winning the “TKO Comedy Champion of 2002” on Showtime at the Apollo, he has toured internationally including venues in Japan, Italy, Spain, England, and Bosnia. Alex’s high-energy, laugh-a-minute style is guaranteed to keep you in stitches and wanting more. With a combination of life stories and voice impressions that are uncanny, Alex Ortiz puts on a show you will not soon forget. Been Waiting To Share This News! After A Long Career Of Working Without Representation I Have Enjoyed Some Degree Of Success, TV Shows, Commercials, Movies And Some Really Great Comedy Clubs, Well Today I Have Been Signed By RLH Talent Out Of LA And Am Forever Grateful! Want To Thank All Of The People Who Have Always Had My Back! From The First Time I Stepped Out On Stage At All Jokes Aside Damon Williams And Maryella Lindsey Have Been My Staunchest Supporters! Coming Up With Deon Cole, George Wilbourne, Tony Sculfield, And Too Many Comedian Friends To Mention Without Whom None Of This Would Be Possible! But Mostly It’s My Fans That Kept Me Going, And Some Select VIP’s In My Personal Life That Have Made My Decision To Follow My Dream A Reality, My Wife Of Course Is The “Stone Upon Which I Built My Church” Having. A A Wife Who Truly Supports You Makes All The Difference In The World, So Thank You Babe. I Thank My Children Who Are The Reason I Am A Better Man, And Last But Not Least, My Daughter Jenny Skulski Who Has Always, And I Mean Always Had My Back And Been My Rock, My Strength And The Person I Turn To In My Darkest Moments. So Thank You Jenny, Thanks Babe, Thank You Fans And A Special Thank You To Rod L Harrell For Taking Me Into His Family At RLH Talent And Possibly Making All My Dreams Come True! Keep you eye on Seestandup.com for Details of Alex Ortiz performing near you.
The Beginning Issue | SeeStandup.com
7
WINDY CITY CIGARS
Windy City Cigar Lounge
A
HEAVEN
s a person that did not go to Evanston Township my connection to E-Town was through my mother. She lived in Evanston from 1985 til 2017 when she passed away. I had never touched a tobacco product before 2019 and Covid seem to influence me to investigate cigars. At first I was resistant to becoming a cigar smoker. I had feelings about it because, my mother had issues with her lungs based on a long life of using cigarettes. Cigarettes are tobacco and cigars are also tobacco. However as an adult I have actually been seduced by the culture surrounding the cigar world. Right now it seems that it is fashionable to be a cigar smoker. Yes, it’s a fad right now however, I enjoy it and after 2020 its very hard to find something that promises to make me happy. Cigars wont be the full source of my happiness but it can put me in a direction I wish might show me paradise. If you are like me a short drive into Chicago for a little 8
SeeStandup.com
paradise might become a consistent thing. I have found Cigar Smoker’s Paradise. If you like to sit back with your favorite stick, a glass of your favorite beverage, and engage in adult conversations then I have the place for you. Paradise is located at 43rd and Prairie and is named Windy City Cigar Lounge. This newly renovated space with an outdoor patio is something special. You would be surprised by the fact that it is in an area not known for such a luxury. This place symbolizes that 43rd street is on its way back to the glory of the 30’s- Chicago’s Brownsville yesteryear. The level of cleanliness and class that is connected with this venue might surprise a true cigar snob. A snob used to ashes and smoke Will Find That No Issues Like That Exist Here. There is not doubt Windy City Cigar Lounge will go down as the best on the South-side if not -Chicago. With its leather chairs and updated ventilation you will feel right at home here. A bigger surprise is the array of DJ’s and other entertainment. If you are a fan of house music, great music, with
NIGHTLIFE
televisions and can carry the conversation that surrounds cigar smokers, this is the place for you. I feel it is the place for me.
You should get in your car and drive in. You will relax in style in this South side premiere cigar lounge. Open daily from 5pm – 11pm, Windy City Cigar Lounge is the perfect place to close an important business deal, entertain a client, have your next private event, or your next social gathering. (Closed on Monday) The location is proud to serve the surrounding communities of Brownsville, South Loop and Kenwood. The newly renovated lounge offers the Chicago community a place to unwind, and connect to other unique individuals. Those personalities that make our city unique. Windy City Cigar Lounge is an unparalleled experience in luxury and personality. Escape reality, sit back and relax, on the plush leather seats located in the inside private lounge. Whether you need to relax or conduct a meeting, they will be sure to make your experience memorable inside. The outdoor enclosed patio will help you take your summer to the next level. Due to the increased popularity of cigars and stringent anti-smoking regulations in cities around the country this back yard / patio area is a god send. Its the ambiance that makes it special. Fire pits and heating lamps will balance out the drafts if that Chicago weather change grabs you. The array of communal chairs and benches will make it so your business and social circles will widen. You and your guests can choose your own snack menu, liquors, including and especially single malt Scotches and Cognacs, because its BYOB. The crowning glory is that you can pair your drinks with the marques of cigars, including General Cigar’s Macanudo, LA AURORA (see Open Tab page), Partagas and Canaria D’Oro, as well as brands from other manufacturers such as Ashton, Fonseca and Dunhill. You are required to buy as an entry fee. Real cigar culture is here and it is absolutely worth the drive into Chicago. Evanston has nothing like this and its within 30 minutes. You can be there, you should be there. Windy City Cigar Lounge 4310 S Prairie Ave, Chicago, IL 60653 Health & safety: Mask required More details Phone: (773) 855-2143 The Beginning Issue | SeeStandup.com
9
Chicago Has A King Of Comedy
DAMON WILLIAMS 10
SeeStandup.com
I
don’t look like it but I grew up fully engaged in sports football, basketball, baseball, soccer, hockey, any sport I could get my hands. I even played ping pong. I grew up in a park named Oakdale on 95th and Vincennes. There were lots of personalities in Oakdale and one day I hope a screen play could be developed.
in the business such as Aretha Franklin, Pattie Labelle, Luther Vandross, Ray Charles, Harry Belafonte, Chris Rock, James Brown, Jamie Foxx, Little Richard, and even President Barack Obama – where he served as host for a campaign brunch.
I was about thirteen years old when I first took notice of one of the guys. Damon would periodically be on the court or around the court. He lived across the tracks but it was before the crack epidemic divided our neighborgoods. One day he came to the court with a record. He was a rapper “now” and was about to make his money and his name on this album. What’s Gucci D? Oakdale was a place where camaraderie was high and so after a few brutal cracks about the album etc Damon went on about his business.
You’ve also seen Damon recently on tours and shows such as Host of HBO’s Martha’s Vineyard Comedy Fest, The US Comedy Arts Festival in Aspen, the Cedric the Entertainer Revue, HBO’s Def Comedy Jam, Martin Lawrence’s 1st Amendment, Comics Unleashed, Black Pack Comedy Tour, Laughin’ on the Outside – Cryin’ on the Inside, most Funny Bone & Improv Comedy Clubs nationwide and maintains his monthly showcases in Chicago for Funny First Mondays.
Years later he and I will become a team on Wednesdays at All Jokes Aside. Damon was the host and at the time I was the DJ on Wednesdays. I think neither one of us understood the impact that All Jokes Aside (a comedy club) would have on our lives. Damon has now become one of the most sought-after acts in the nation rubbing elbows with some of the highest-profile comedians and singers in the entertainment business. If you were to look at his calendar like me you would wonder when does this guy get a chance to sleep he’s either always in an airport or always onstage somewhere I personally feel like if Chicago comedy where to be a organize zacian like the mafia he would be the Don
He’s caught the acting bug with starring roles in films Not Another Black Movie, lead in Heaven on Seven, and also an appearance on the Bounce TV sitcom Grown Folks. Damon is keeping Chicago on the map as co-owner of Riddle’s Comedy Club where he’s providing a stage for new and veteran comedic talent. With his life motto of “Don’t Stop and Don’t Quit,” Damon previously held the “Funny Chair” seat as co-host on the legendary nationally syndicated Tom Joyner Morning Show, and is seen consistently on Chicago’s #1 Day Talk Show, Windy City Live.
From (https://www.damonwilliamscomedy.com/) With 25 years in the industry, Damon Williams is a former Subway sandwich shop owner from Chicago, IL who began his comedy career at All Jokes Aside Comedy club. Damon’s previous television appearances include BET’s Comic View dating back to 1994, including his own onehour special. He’s been featured on BET LIVE, Comedy Central’s Premium Blend, The Tom Joyner Sky Show on TV ONE, and HBO’s P Diddy’s Bad Boys of Comedy. The Funny Man from Chicago even hosted several episodes of the legendary Showtime at the Apollo, following seasoned host & TV star Steve Harvey. In 1999 Damon performed for over 300,000 fans as the opening act for the highly successful Kings of Comedy Tour, establishing him as one of the elite comics in the nation. Internationally Damon is a fan favorite in the Cayman Islands and has made regular appearances in Canada with stops in Vancouver, Montreal, and Edmonton. Damon has even been featured on The Real Deal Comedy Jam, which airs in the UK. Monthly comedy shows for the House of Blues came were the result of one appearance on the Jenny Jones Show. He was contracted to write, perform, and produce over 50 episodes. His material is universal and there’s something for all ages. His popularity has provided him the opportunity to work with some of the biggest stars
The Beginning Issue | SeeStandup.com
11
@MarkSimmonslive
World Traveler y l e t u l o s b A d n a Hilarious
Mark Simmons
T N A T R O P M I 4 Facts About
12
SeeStandup.com
Where Did You Fall In Love With Standup Comedy? fell in love with being a comedian. It had to be at all jokes aside. Wednesday nights open mics. That’s where all of us started. Myself Leon Rogers D re Mon and Michiko j. d. Alex Ortiz. Big O. As when all of us started at the open mics day hosted by Damon Williams does when I fell in love with being a comedian. The person who first brings you to the stage is important. Who was the FIRST person who brought you to the stage? the first time I got brought to the stage. I think it was Kenny Howell. Yeah. I was on this was 1993 and never did comedy before. And, um, I entered the Miller genuine draft comedy search. And I ended up making it into the contest. And the first round of the contest, Kenny had brought me on stage and it has been a first time person on stage and never doing comedy. I went all the way to the semifinals. And the only reason I didn’t go to the finals is because I was a nobody. And I ended up not doing comedy again until three years later in 1996. That’s when I decided to start pursuing comedy for real . Who Is Your Favorite Comedian? My favorite comedian did we have to be Patrice O’Neal? Patrice O’Neal was super funny. And when I moved to New York in 2013 that was my man. He took care of me he opened doors for me out there in Patrice was huge. He didn’t have to do that. He didn’t have to do that. And my favorite comic alive Why now? Okay, really save. Okay really say so budget comedians, it made me laugh so i don’t know i don’t really have a favorite alive you know so it’s a bunch of cats and and females I think that male and female that I think a funny so I don’t really have a favorite comedian that’s alive right now. What Is Your Favorite Or Most Notable Achievement? Question for my favorite achievement as a stand up comedian is being able to to just make a living off of being a stand up comedian. Um, I got started in 1996 and by 2003 I made the decision to pursue GE as being a comedian as my only source of income I had no other job since 2003 as a comedian as just a stand up comedian and I think I’ve been pretty successful with that. I’ve been in three major motion pictures barber shop barber shop too, and roll bows have been on numerous TV shows. I did bt comicview like six times I was on p Diddy’s bad boys of comedy I was on our Martin Lawrence for first amendment men men stand up and I was also in the Las Vegas Comedy Festival and as one of the lucky 21. And also I was able to put all three of my daughters through college being a stand up comedian. So that’s my favorite achievement. Transcribed by https://otter.ai
The Beginning Issue | SeeStandup.com
13
This Restaurant Is Pure Romance. It Made My Wife Love Me Again
-Anonymous
14
SeeStandup.com
FINE DINING
Jilly’s Cafe 2614 Green Bay Road-Evanston, IL
I
f you are driving down Green Bay Road in the Evanston area you might pass it. The naked eye might blink and you may miss it, as it is a little french restaurant. The quaint building sits next to Heart automotive and on a busy corner. If you’re aware and you are looking for an incredible worldly top-notch experience you will see this diamond of a restaurant. Its name is Jilly’s Cafe. Jilly’s Cafe is a french inspired throwback to the days of Restaurant Glory. Described as Intimate & popular establishment featuring French bistro fare with an American twist plus brunch. It is a place where your waiter understands fully how to take care of the people who patronize this white table cloth environment. The Service is only over shadowed by the menu.
The bouillabaise had the biggest and most succulent shrimp, and fish chunks in all of Evanston dining. It is a celebration of the sea crowned with an expertly prepared lobster tail (optional) The whole plate is covered in mussles and the dish is swimming in flavor. You must try this restaurant- immediately call for reservations. ((847) 869-7636)
This French Bistro in the middle of Evanston serves food you would find in a Fendi or a Gucci ad. The menu is stacked with the type of food you may find in a movie. The mussels marinara alone should make any wife happy you did the extra work to make her happy. This restaurant has an Escargot A La Bourignonne (Appetizer) and where else can you get that? The veal dish is to die for. While dining at Jilly’s you might feel like Elizabeth Taylor might have dined there. It is a place of Pure Romance. It is the place couple go to enjoy love. Personally, I had a conversation with a friend who was having trouble in his marriage. His wife was not happy and he could not find out why. My suggestion was that even though he lived over an hour away that he should drive into Evanston and take her to Jilly. The restaurants reservation list can fill up sometimes weeks in advance. Nonethe less he took her. He stated that his wife said, “I believe it probably was the most romantic thing he is probably ever done”, while on the phone with his mother. It was reported that for his wife to make that call felt like he had saved his marriage. He had made the right choice and taking her there now his problems seem to be erased. Jillys is the experience women dream of. His wife stated “it is such a beautiful intimate restaurant”. After dining there no woman could feel neglected especially while she stares across the table from her lover and orders the bouillabaisse. (pictured left)
The Beginning Issue | SeeStandup.com
15
OPEN TAB
God of Fire
I
by Don Carlos Toro Cigar
am one to usually stay away from Super high-end cigars, they just seem to cost too much. One day while drinking with some high-net-worth friends one specific buddy stood up went to the front of the Cigar Lounge. He purchased a box of high-end cigars were named God of Fire, by Don Carlos Toro cigars. I had never heard of it but I could tell by the way they came to the table that this was going to be something special. I must say there is a difference between $12 cigars and $200 cigars. The burn of the cigar was slower. There was no tobacco sting in the cigar. The taste was extremely smooth had a nutty flavor, an earthy flavor, and almost a cinnamon caramel hint. If I were to say there was some maple in there- I don’t know if I would be challenged. What I would say is this was the best cigar that I’ve ever had and I look forward to one day trying it again All God of Fire cigars can be considered mediumbodied, and all deliver a smooth, refined character and a satisfying, full flavor. Beyond those common traits, though, no further generalizations can be made. One must sample all of the God of Fire cigars to experience the wealth of flavors this line offers.
16
SeeStandup.com
Le Malbec the best Cigar Pairing
T
he pairing of a nice cigar and a bottle of wine is as old as the ritual of “talking to your friends”. Red wine has become a favorite of Evanston Magazine.
This Malbec from -Le Malbec has stolen my heart. The flavors brought out by the combination SWARTHY natural comb of a fine cigar and this wine should only be enjoyed by the person who has earned the opportunity. The hard working high value executive is to enjoy- a fine glass of wine and a smooth cigar. Originally from the south-west of France, the Malbec grape goes by a number of different names including Auxerrois and Côt. It is said to be the result of a cross between the Magdeleine Noire des Charentes and the Prunelard Noir. Malbec is a powerful and fruity varietal. It produces a masculine red wine with a lively, frisky character and Latin spirit. The Malbec thrives on the clay and limestone hills of the western Languedoc, terroirs that help it to obtain perfect maturity. This wine is a joint venture between Vianney Castan and JP Bourgeois. Vianney owns the Chateau St Jean d’Aumiere, neighbor of the Mas de Daumas Gassac in Gignac. This wine is created under the watchful eye and extensive knowledge of Florencia Stoppini.
THE GRA a TEFUL GRA a PE THE GRATEFUL GRAPE
WINES FOR THE PEOPLE. WINES FOR THE WORLD.
WINES FOR THE PEOPLE. WINE FOR THE WORLD
SEI QUERCE WINES, AN ALLEGIANCE TO THE LAND The hills of Northern California are unique. They’re golden and round, speckled with groves of lush green shrubs. They smell of eucalyptus and dry grass, sweet and spicy and warm. On the hottest days, it smells of straw so strongly that the air can feel thick and humid. In 1897 a family bought a piece of land in these hills, in more specifically what is now the famed Alexander Valley. At the time it was even more rural than it is now, and while agriculture was the major industry of the area, it wasn’t until 2010, when the current (and only second) owner, Hal Hinkle discovered the true potential for this land… to make wine. And ‘make wine’ he has. After a few years of selling their fruit to the most prestigious labels in Napa and Sonoma, in 2014 Hal Hinkle and winemaker Jesse Katz released their first vintage. They named the estate Sei Querce after the six oak trees that pepper the center of the property and knew at first sip that they had crafted something pure and beautiful. Among Sei Querce’s outstanding wines are two elegant Cabernets: Six Oaks and Ranch House. Both are distinguishably unique, but each is as delightful as its other half. Six Oaks, made from grapes harvested first, is silky and smooth with pronounced notes of boysenberry, pomegranate, marzipan, and chocolate. Ranch House, made from grapes picked a few weeks later, is warm and toasty, with notes of sage and orange peel. At my first tasting, I was determined to declare a favorite, but after countless sips back-and-forth, the only declaration I could make was that these wines are intoxicating. Beyond the exceptional quality of the wine, something of even greater importance lingers beneath the label – a vow to care for the land. Hal has made every decision based on sustainability and is working tirelessly to produce the country’s first certified carbon neutral wines. They use bottles that are made from 40% recycled material which weigh the smallest amount legally possible, reducing waste and allowing for a lighter load in the shipping process. They have eliminated the traditional cork enclosure, keeping one additional piece from our bins, and in an attempt to keep their footprint as small as possible, Hal and Jesse use a communal
Images Courtesy of Sei Querce
winemaking facility instead of building their own. Wine is a luxury, and the price should not be paid by the land. In our time, it is not enough to make something delicious if it depletes the earth. And it is not enough to feed the earth if we are left unnourished and uninspired. Hal understands this. In celebration of the land, he will leave it better than he found it, and while he’s at it, he will give us a glass of something impressive to toast it with. It seems to me - and I would wager to all who have tasted these remarkable wines - that Hal Hinkle has struck gold in the magical hills of Northern California. How sweet it is to have your wine and drink it too. Sei Querce is imported by JP Bourgeois. To find Sei Querce wines near you, please contact: Anna@JP-Bourgeois.com
ABOUT JP BOURGEOIS IMPORTS
JP Bourgeois is a highly specialized wine importer of French, Spanish, Slovenian, and US wines, focusing solely on handcrafted, sustainably farmed, and certified organic wines. Written by Anna Henscey, Midwest Account Manager for JP Bourgeois Imports. Henscey grew up in San Francisco and currently lives in Chicago, IL with her fiancé Nick and two dogs, Garcia and Mavis (named for two of her favorite musicians). Henscey is a WSET Level 3 Award recipient and feels inspired to make wine a more approachable topic for all.
FOLLOW US: @JP.BOURGEOIS
Jp Bourgeois | Organic | Sustainable | Biodynamic The Beginning Issue | SeeStandup.com
JP BOURGEOIS :
ORGANIC,
SUSTAINABLE,
BIODYNAMIC
17
on DON RICKLES I was fortunate enough to be sidled up at Dave Letterman’s desk for 17 years during every commercial break on The Late Show. I got to meet many of the guests because of my proximity to them at the taping. As a result I got to interact with some of the greatest cultural figures of our time. Most of the interactions were brief, yet thrilling.
Dobie Maxwell : Author
The Great Jackie Mason
W
(Born Yacov Moshe Hakohen Maza; June 9, 1928 – July 24, 2021)
ell deserved tributes continue to pour in for the great Jackie Mason, and here is an article that appeared in the Chicago Tribune.
Here is an especially compelling quote from Jackie: “A person has to feel emotionally barren or empty or frustrated in order to become a comedian,” he told The Associated Press in 1987. “I don’t think people who feel comfortable or happy are motivated to become comedians. You’re searching for something and you’re willing to pay a high price to get that attention.” Comedians (the best ones anyway) are traditionally dented cans, and that’s what drives us through what can be a jungle of a journey that most “normal” people could never endure. We keep going because we have no choice but to plow forward. Here’s hoping Jackie was at peace with himself at some point, and is reaping his just rewards for the laughter he brought to so many. The sacrifices a comedian makes over a lifetime are enormous. Know that as you get started, and whatever you decide may it be the correct choice for you. Jackie Mason paid his dues and then some. Let the tributes continue, he earned every one.
18
SeeStandup.com
I have had hundreds and hundreds of experiences that I never dreamed would come true, and I reminded myself often to never take them for granted. As a staff member at the Late Show, we were asked not to bother guests in their dressing rooms, unless we knew them. If we ran into the guests in the green room or in the hall, we were welcome to chat with them, as long as they seemed willing. (by Dobie Maxwell)
Anthony Bonazzo
Staying Positive In Comedy is
S
So Hard
taying positive in Comedy is so hard. But you have to. There is so much behind the scenes work of endless emails, no responses, Bookers overlooking you, seeing peers advance and feelings of jealousy. I laugh when a comic talks to me about how a club isn’t responding to them or they are frustrated, like I am not familiar with it. I’ve been doing stand up for almost 13 years. I have experienced every high and low there will ever be.
And truly the only way to be happy in this is to love it so much you don’t let anything else get in the way. Of your pursuit of it, and your love for it. You literally have to be like a running back looking only ahead of you and not what’s behind you or on the sidelines. The moment you spiral into “How did they get that?” you will be caught in a downward spiral of unproductively. And trust me, it’s toxic. Instead be honest with yourself. Are you really working as hard as you think you are? Are you pushing yourself to be a better writer? Are you challenging yourself? Are you becoming an undeniable performer? Do you have a website? Busniness cards? Merch? If the answer is no, don’t worry about what anyone else is doing and work on yourself. You are a business: The CEO, Marketing Director, Payroll. Chicago is one big Playground to fail, get up, and fail again. Utlilize it! I don’t think comics realize it’s OK to be happy for other people and their success. Trust your time is coming. You are on your own path. Right now I am on the verge of popping in my career. I can feel it. So I am caught somewhere in the middle of trying to trust and manifest, and steer the ship. But sometimes, like when you are on stage, you just have to ride the wave. And try and enjoy it. Trust in yourself, the process, your hard work, God, the universe, whatever you believe. Everyone’s time will come, and you want to be ready. There are so many wonderful things you will may miss along the way: Your growth, your performance, your comfort level, and your belief in yourself. I am not saying any of this advice is easy. And I still struggle with it. But when I find myself in a wallowing moment, I dust myself off and get back to work. Because I am in love. And nothing will stop me. And I am learning to trust I am exactly where I need to be. This quote sums it up perfectly: “Something Deep in my character has allowed me no other option but to take the hits, get up, and then get on with trying to win” The Beginning Issue | SeeStandup.com 19
Saying Good Bye Is Never Easy
Comedian VINCENT HICKEY
September 20, 1978 ~ September 5, 2021 (Age 42)
I
n an article on the University of Illinois hospital website our friend, Vinny Raponi was diagnosed with aggressive leukemia but he never stopped smiling.
According to the article, he was generally doing comedy around the city and one night woke up with a swollen tongue. He went to the hospital. They ran tests and of course, he had feelings when they said “you might want to sit down”. That’s how Vinny Raponi found out that he had leukemia. Nonetheless, Vinny was tough. In fact, he beat leukemia. Then a short time later was diagnosed with a different kind of brain cancer. Vinny disappeared and friends of his like me wondered where he was? We did not worry about him because he was a strong Chicago guy. In fact, he was from the Bridgeport area. An area is known for its blur collar “grit”. I’m sure he had many battles and we watched him win consistently against cancer, but as you know cancer never loses. Cancer only waits for its next moment and if you don’t win. One and done- the game is over.
20
SeeStandup.com
Yep, you guessed it, unfortunately, we lost Vinnie Raponi and so we got together. The couple of comedians that had the opportunity to spend time with him celebrated his life with his family. The pictures of the event Vinny appeared all across Chicago. Vinny will be missed. He will always be best known for his appearances in the plays he specialized in. The biggest play: Death of a Cannoli Salesman. We miss you Vinny and we look forward to seeing you in the afterlife my friend go up there and make them laugh. I wanna thank Vinnies mom for sharing him with us one last time.
Make it a Family Night! STUDENT STUDENT TICKETS TICKETS $15 $15
RECOMMENDED RECOMMENDED FOR FOR AGES AGES 8+ 8+
PLAYING NOV 26 - JAN 2 FOR TICKETS:
The Beginning Issue | SeeStandup.com
northlight.org | 847.673.6300
21
A NEW WAVE OF LIVING. STUDIO, ONE BEDROOM, & TWO BEDROOM APARTMENTS 1500 SHERMAN AVENUE, EVANSTON, IL, 60201 22
SeeStandup.com
ALBIONEVANSTON.COM | (224) 300 - 7900
The Beginning Issue | SeeStandup.com
23
0
$
DOWN SECURITY DEPOSIT 1 ST M OT H PAY M E N T D U E AT S I G N I N G
AUTOBARNNISSAN.COM 24
SALES CENTER 1012 CHICAGO AVENUE SeeStandup.com EVANSTON, IL 60202 877 291 0752
SERVICE CENTER 2 2 0 1 AU TO B A R N W AY EVANSTON, IL 60202 877 294 3502
