Publisher and managing editor of Chicago's largest and still-growing chain of gay and lesbian media, Tracy Baim, will be honored for her journalism at the Studs Terkel Awards April 6.
Baim helms Windy City Media Group, which reaches 50,000 readers weekly with its mothership Windy City Times, Nightspots and Identity. WCMG also produces Chicago's oldest gay radio program Windy City Radio on WCKG 105.9 FM Sunday nights 10-11 p.m. Baim has also written a novel Half Life, which has been adapted for stage and screen, depicting gays serving in the Gulf War. The film version of the story is currently in development.
'This is one of the biggest honors that an independent journalist can receive,' said Baim. 'Studs Terkel is one of the most revered journalists of our time. I feel so grateful to be receiving this award.'
Baim, who co-founded Windy City Times 20 years ago, was also inducted into the city's Gay and Lesbian Hall of Fame more than a decade ago. She has received local and national media awards, and has been honored by groups including the ACLU and NOW. She was recently profiled by the Q Syndicate gay media newsletter and GFN.com .
The Studs Terkel Awards, presented by the Community Media Workshop, honor community activists, downtown policy experts, dedicated journalists and media who have kept the flames of hope and spirit of grassroots Chicago alive. This year the Workshop celebrates 16 years of promoting news that matters. The night will honor not only Baim but also John Conroy ( writer, Chicago Reader ) , Mary Schmich ( columnist, Chicago Tribune ) and James Weinstein ( founding publisher, In These Times ) .
To join in the celebration on Wednesday, April 6 from 5-8 pm contact ( 312 ) 344-6400 or visit www.NewsTips.org . The event will take place at The Arts Club of Chicago, 201 E. Ontario and include Hors D'Oeuvres, Buffet, Cash Bar and Jazz by the Curtis Black Quartet. Tickets are $85 and very limited.
