Meet the outstanding men of Men Alive

“There are two ways of spreading light: to be the candle or the mirror that reflects it.” -- Edith Wharton
 
The idea of putting someone in the spotlight suggests a need for illumination emanating from an outside source.  However, the light source is really the people within Men Alive who share their stories. Although you will ultimately determine how well the intent is realized, we hope you agree that the goal of “Man in the Spotlight” is to act as a mirror reflecting the light that each man brings to the Chorus. If you end up seeing a little clearer because of it, then so much the better.

Doug Leffin (Tenor I)
It’s amazing that, in contrast to all the public doubt about the effect gay and lesbian contact may have on children, so many of us have devoted our lives to either raising them, teaching them, caring for them, or volunteering for organizations that support and nurture them. For us, being advocates for children is more than just a calling; it’s a passion that transcends obligation, financial rationality, or even available stores of energy. That description, meant in an entirely admirable way, is an ideal one to introduce First Tenor Doug Leffin.
 
Doug works as a Child Life Specialist in the medical field, providing psychosocial support to hospitalized children. Part of his work is preparing children for surgery and other medical events. “As one can imagine, children may be very fearful and anxious about their pending medical care. My job is to assist them during this care.” Doug’s history with theatre and music has come in handy, providing opportunities to establish a rapport with children through singing and laughter. As Doug puts it, “it helps to know the words to ‘Winnie the Pooh.’”
 
A native Southern Californian, Doug is thankful for the “wonderful family” that has made coming out a “very easy” process for him. His friends and coworkers have also been loving and supportive. “I count my blessings every day,” Doug says. He is also thankful for the “Men Alive” family that he has gotten to know since joining in 2008. “It came as a great surprise how quickly I was welcomed into the chorus; everyone was so very warm and welcoming to the ‘newbies’.”
   
Doug enjoys belonging to something that reaches out to other gay men who need support, role models, and encouragement. It seems fitting that a man who dedicates his life to providing precisely those crucial life needs for children would end up singing with Men Alive. After all-- laughter, singing, and connecting with others aren’t just reserved for children; it’s something that all of us would benefit from devoting our lives to.

Bill Eadie (Tenor II)
Walk into any Tuesday evening practice and you'll observe the spectrum of personalities, some talking chorus business, some relating personal matters. But we don't often get to spend time to really learn about the sum total of one's experiences that has made him the person he is today. So this is your opportunity to spend a few moments with second tenor Bill Eadie, a gentleman in every sense of the word.
 
Bill is the oldest of four children and enjoys a close relationship with all his siblings. While growing up in Southern California, he sang in a large and active church choir and performed in theater. He was captain of the debate team and played the tuba and acoustic bass throughout secondary school, college, and the army. Bill was named “Soldier of the Year” at Fort Ord, which he says, “was certainly ironic for someone who made it out of basic training without passing the physical training exam.” Bill worked at Disneyland and attended UCLA, where he did publicity and press relations for the UCLA Band. After time in the army, he returned to school where he earned a Ph. D in communications and later became the youngest Department Chair at Cal State Northridge.
 
Bill was given the opportunity to relocate to Washington D.C., serving as the Associate Director of the National Communication Association-- the largest of the scholarly societies in his field. It was there that, after many years of living in “denial about being gay,” Bill decided to “make a clean start as an out, gay man.” He joined the Gay Men's Chorus of Washington D.C. and experienced first-hand the effects of the AIDS crisis. “My sweet chorus big brother died of AIDS during some of the hottest and most humid weather I have ever experienced, and I still cherish the fact that I braved the heat to be at his bedside on the day that he died.” It was also during his time in Washington D.C. that Bill was diagnosed with a chronic heart condition and underwent a double bypass. “Chorus members streamed to my hospital room to provide support, and cards and phone calls kept coming when I went home.”
   
These experiences would eventually play a part in Bill's working with Men Alive as the Chorus Care Coordinator, but they were just two of many important events in his life at this time. During his tenure with GMCW, Bill sang both at Carnegie Hall and later as part of Bill Clinton's second inaugural celebration- the first gay men's chorus to be invited to do so. “We were given a Sunday 11:00 a.m. time slot at the National Museum of American History's auditorium, and I figured that no one would come to hear us. We were amazed when the hall was not only full, but the crowd also filled a second auditorium, which only had the sound piped in.”
Bill continues to dedicate himself to not only two choruses, but to writing and directing as well. This past April, he directed a twenty performer production of "To Kill a Mockingbird." for St. Paul’s Episcopal Cathedral, and next February, he’ll stage “The Little Prince” in the same space. He's also been reviewing theater for two websites, SanDiego.com, and TalkinBroadway.com. It is difficult to compact a full, rich life into the space of a five-minute read. So, if you would like to know more about Bill's fascinating experiences, or if you just want to know how he manages the drive from San Diego to Orange County every week, you'll find him in the Tenor II section. Carve out some time to spend with this intriguing man.

Patrick Clarke (Baritone)
Families are often a puzzle inside a riddle wrapped in an enigma. We can spend the bulk of our lives attempting to free ourselves from the family ties that bind, while longing for that which we wished had existed in those innocent days of youth. But for baritone Patrick Clarke, the word family does not precede a question mark- following it is a resounding exclamation point.
 
A native Orange Countian, Patrick is the fifth child in a family of eleven. He cites his extended family as not only being supportive of who he is, but as ardent educational advocates. "My parents could not afford private school for all of us.  My aunt and uncle decided they would pay for me to go to private school,  which put me on a much more academic path than I think I would have been on had I stayed at the public school." Patrick's commitment to family was later demonstrated when he and his partner of eighteen years volunteered to take in four nieces and nephews. He says the eight years his partner's family has been with them have been exceptionally rewarding. "Having the opportunity to return the favor in taking care of my partner's family has brought it all full circle.  I look at it as a real opportunity to change these kids lives just like mine was when my aunt and uncle took me in."
 
Patrick has even seen change demonstrated in his own family. He states that the mission of Men Alive really hit home with him when his "very conservative Catholic aunt" asked if she could auction off tickets to a Men Alive concert at her church. "I was not worried that she wouldn't love me if I was gay, but that she was so taken with what we were doing on stage and to want to bring it to all her friends was amazing to me."
   
A sense of dedication has been evident in the work Patrick's done with the Orange County Gay Men's Chorus. From his earlier days of singing commercial jingles along with the TV ads and with his sister as they cleaned the dinner dishes to performing various roles in high school and college and his participating with Men Alive, Patrick has demonstrated the same enthusiasm that is evident in his willingness to care for family. He notes the quality of the product and the sense of pride he feels as important by-products of the time and commitment that goes in to each concert.

Wilson Raiser (Bass)
Whether or not you believe that we are all connected, like some cosmic web with lives overlapping and intersecting, you can’t deny that we do all have some effect on those with whom we come in contact. Case in point- bass Wilson Raiser. Who can forget the effect he had on those who were fortunate enough to witness his transformation into Glinda, the good witch, during last year’s “Wicked to Oz” show? Wilson’s story is one which illustrates the effect one person can have over countless others.

Although Wilson has also worked maintaining computer systems and designing websites, he studied at BYU and trained as an actor at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts. He has been seen on TV, and in theater, movies and commercials. If you’ve been around L.A., you might have seen Wilson interacting with audiences through his stand-up comedy and Cabaret acts, or when working as a singing waiter. Wilson even gathered together with others on a global scale, traveling with the Gay Men’s Chorus of Los Angeles in 1999 to perform at “the first gay-organized event in Russia.”

But it’s not only through Wilson’s performing that he has had an effect on others. Since he never had the opportunity to have children, he decided to sponsor 2 children in Ecuador, about 5 years ago, “it has been a very rewarding and heartwarming to know that you are making a difference in someone’s life, and the pictures and letters the kids send are worth it. I highly recommend everyone do it”.

His quiet humor and gentle demeanor continue to affect others from inside and outside the Men Alive community. He appreciates the chorus not only as a great support group and social outlet but also because of the how “phenomenally talented most of the members are.”

Very true. But no one can make an entrance like a pink-satin-clad Wilson in a large, flying bubble, and he continues to positively affect those with whom he comes in contact through his work in Men Alive and in other areas of his life. As a result of our interaction with Wilson, many of us can say we’ve definitely been changed for the better.

Robert Samuel Hazelton (Baritone I)
In his book, Too Soon Old, Too Late Smart, Gordon Livingston explains that “happiness is the ultimate risk.” All people, gay men in particular, are too familiar with the fear that must be befriended in order to take those risks and attempt to build what one would call a “happy” life. Baritone Robert Samuel Hazelton’s life is indicative of someone who has done just that.

From his early years, Robert has worked to showcase his talents. “In high school and college, I performed in the choir and musicals. I had the opportunity to perform in "Guys and Dolls,” "Fiddler on the Roof," and in my senior year, I had the lead in "Grease." He danced for Disneyland and juggled performance work with fine arts courses in college. Robert’s effort resulted in a gallery display of his artwork and an award from the college Patrons of the Arts Association. After college, he managed a craft store, worked as a display artist, and served as a national coordinator of craft classes for his employer. Robert has used his creative and managerial talents at Nordstrom, but states that his real love is in costume designing. “Through what I felt was a revelation in my life, the choir gave me a chance to create costumes for Men Alive shows. Although I had always created costumes, I never really had an opportunity to showcase my talent. It inspired me to take a risk and become a full time costume designer.” Currently, Robert owns his own small business and feels he has achieved something very rewarding and important. He says the road is long, but he has had success and enjoys getting up every day to sew.

Robert’s cites his tenure with Men Alive as being an important part of his life. He acknowledges how supportive people are, “not only to your personal situations but the support of your part in each show.” He feels Men Alive has helped him realize that he could make a difference and have his voice heard. Through the help of his family, including his partner Pascal and a variety of four-legged and finned animals, and with the support of his chorus family, Robert feels certain that he can not only change his life but help to change the world.

It is quite clear through the story of Robert Samuel Hazelton that with risk comes the possibility for immeasurable growth. As for happiness, one might argue that it’s not the destination that counts but the trip one makes along the way. And Robert has definitely had one interesting trip so far.

Stephen Brothwell (Tenor I)
Being human is definitely not for the faint of heart. We all have stories describing trials and challenges of life, and most of us get battered along the way. Hopefully, we all find a way to fly above the adversity that blocks our path. For Stephen Brothwell, that element of flying has taken on both a figurative and a literal meaning.

A Southern California native, Stephen attended El Toro High School and later went on to complete a degree in Law and Society at U.C. Santa Barbara. Stephen is fortunate to have his parents and brothers nearby, as well as his boyfriend Chad, who sings baritone in the chorus. “I am out to my family and they are very supportive. They come to all of the Men Alive shows and really enjoy them.” He sang with the Pacific Youth Chorale and later in high school was honored for his choral singing. But Stephen really flew high in the recent Men Alive production of “Wicked to Oz.” “My favorite experience so far has been performing ‘Defying Gravity’. How many people ever get the chance to fly in a show? I can proudly say that I have; all while belting out some high notes!”

Stephen has been noteworthy in his job working with college students at the University of California, Irvine. Through the role of crisis intervention counselor, one of many that Stephen adopts in his job, he has helped students maneuver through difficult times, including sexual assault and attempted suicide. “I was surprised to find how calm I am in the face of trauma. I found that indicative of my ability to take life experiences as they come and learn and grow from each one.” He cites his own college experience as instrumental in developing the confidence needed to fly in the face of challenge.

According to Stephen, Men Alive has offered great role modeling for what being a gay man in this world can be. “The choir is filled with men in long-standing, committed relationships, and people involved in the community and interested in making change.” One could see how the description of “role model” easily applies to him as well.

Robb Neale (Tenor II)
Each individual member of Men Alive has his own story, his own set of circumstances resulting in the wearing of that tux, vest, and tie. Some desire to express what they have already identified as a driving creative force. Others see the chorus as an opportunity to move forward in their lives, only to find inner talent they never realized existed. Whether second tenor Robb Neale fits in the former or latter category is unimportant; what is important is that he has demonstrated both drive and talent in his tenure with the chorus.

Robb grew up in San Diego and went to Vassar College in Poughkeepsie, NY. “My first glimpse of New York City opened my eyes to the world and taught me that I could see any part of it I wanted to.” After college, he lived in London, Seattle (WA), Japan, and Honolulu, where he worked both backstage and singing in front of audiences with the Honolulu Men’s Chorus as well as other local theater companies. Robb returned to California in 1999, took a sabbatical from singing, and decided to audition for Men Alive after his partner died in 2004. “I needed to meet new people and get active again. So, I decided to look for another local chorus, since I'd enjoyed Honolulu so much. I kept missing the [Men Alive] concerts for one reason or another, so finally decided just to audition sight-unseen, figuring if I didn't enjoy it, I'd just quit. Needless to say, I enjoyed it and stayed!”

The Orange County Gay Men’s chorus has benefitted greatly from Robb's presence. He has been a creative force and has not shied away from being on-stage in some memorable scenes, wearing some extraordinary costumes, having played at various times a Marvelette, a member of the Lullaby League and George Frideric Handel. Robb's favorite moment with Men Alive was having a substantial role in the conception and production of the “Wicked to Oz” concert. His dream is to one day actually set foot on a Broadway stage.

Robb has high praise for Men Alive. “Where else do we find well over 100 gay men who get together for a common purpose? I see the complete range of generations, giving a history and reality to the gay experience.”

Robb's creative effort is part of that reality.

Tim Storey (Baritone)
Spend any amount of time watching the preparation for a Men Alive concert and you’ll see that there is incredible dedication to service and excellence. This loyalty is indicative of the depth of commitment made from each member, and it is not limited to chorus functions alone. For baritone Tim Storey, commitment and dedication to service have been consistent threads throughout his life.

Tim, an Illinois native, has demonstrated dedication and commitment to his family, which includes a mother and two younger brothers. He spent a year in the pre-med program of the University of Illinois before joining the Navy, and spent many years serving his country in active duty and the Naval Reserve. With Tim’s knowledge and dedication to the medical field, he has continued to provide excellent service as a Microbiologist. Tim is currently working on a degree in Human Services and Management, and he may one day be the first person in his family to earn a Ph.D.

It has been Tim’s dedication to music and service that brought him to Men Alive. He has fulfilled many leadership roles as a member of “Shoreline Squares”, a square-dancing group, and he began working with the chorus in 2002.  “I had been singing off and on in a few different church choirs. When I went to see “This is Our Time”, I saw in the program the notice about auditions and figured I would try. I am so glad that I went.”  Tim has enjoyed being a “Sister of Perpetual Silence” and cites the Gay and Lesbian Association (GALA) of choruses’ festival in Miami as one life experience that has been very memorable. He was also very proud to have sung with the chorus in celebrating the life of Jill De Freitas.

Tim continues to look for opportunities to serve the chorus. “Men Alive makes me proud that we have touched people making a positive difference in their lives. I feel like I’ve found a place where I belong.”

Richard Triplett (Bass)
Whether you’re straight or gay, or somewhere in-between, we all seek to be comfortable in our own skin. The search for dignity and contentment is difficult. But if we work hard enough, and if it’s important enough to us, we continue the two-steps-forward-one-step-back foxtrot slowly toward that goal. For those of us still dancing, it might be beneficial to let Richard Triplett lead for a while.

One of four children from a very independent family, Richard has taken a very pragmatic approach to his life. “I am who I am and I am not shy about it. I do not feel I need to broadcast my life to others, nor do I ever hide my orientation.” He keeps a Facebook page where his extended family and friends are able to glimpse his life without filters or masks. He sums up his philosophy by stating that the finest moment is yet to come in any circumstance.

Richard has neither been afraid to relocate when a good opportunity presented itself for personal or professional growth, nor has he allowed himself to be overwhelmed by the experiences he’s had. “During all of my adult life I had never lived in the same location for more than two years at a time until Orange County. This included various states over several sections of the country, various locations within those states, and included three, let's just say, relationships meant as educational experiences.” While employed in the banking and mortgage lending industry, he worked toward obtaining the Certified Mortgage Banker designation, a feat he lists as “the most respected and difficult designation available in my industry.”  Due to this designation, his stature in the industry has enabled him to speak, write, and teach in many media.

Richard has found contentment through music and performing. Starting as a preschooler in a tiny suit and tie, he caught the performance bug and continued playing musical instruments and performing in marching bands, eventually adding musical theatre, choral singing, and conducting to his list of accomplishments. He sang with the Boston Gay Men's Chorus for 5 years, as well as the Gay Men’s Chorus of Houston, and arrived in the bass section of Men Alive in 2002.

Richard believes that the chorus “demonstrates an unparalleled image representing a slice of the community in a positive, professional manner,” and he cites an event with Men Alive as being one of his most touching. “For several years I dedicated a large portion of my time to Men Alive in a multitude of ways." During the rehearsal period for a concert in the summer of 2007, he had to tell chorus Artistic Director Rich Cook he was moving to Houston for work. “As a complete surprise to me, Rich in a very somber and emotional way announced to the chorus that I was leaving and moving to Houston. The reaction from the chorus, the complete and pure love I experienced in that spontaneous moment from the whole chorus was so incredibly emotional for me, it captured a piece of my heart forever. That moment in time -- that unabashed feeling of pure love -- will be with me for the rest of my life.”

Lt. Dan Choi (Bass)
On Tuesday July 7, 2009, Men Alive chorister First Lt. Dan Choi, a graduate of the U.S. Military Academy at West Point and an Iraq War veteran, faced a panel of New York National Guard officers who recommended that Choi be discharged for admitting his homosexuality. Choi, a bass in Men Alive, came out in March on the Rachel Maddow show, arguing against the ban on gays serving in the military. Days later at our Spring Show, Choi moved the audience when he shared his story and his experience in fighting against “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” (DADT).

A California native, Choi currently serves in the New York Army National Guard, although he makes Orange County his home. He is the son of a Baptist minister. Born in 1981, he has been in the armed forces all his adult life.

Dan Choi is man of great courage and conviction in his beliefs and morals. He is an inspiring warrior, fighting for our country and fighting against discrimination. And he is a treasured friend and great singer to the Chorus.

To help Choi, please visit Knights Out, the organization of out Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) West Point Alumni at http://knightsout.org/.

Learn more about Dan Choi. Links to TV interviews and articles are below:

• The Rachel Maddow show part1 (March 19, 2009) click here
• The Rachel Maddow show part2 (March 20, 2009) click here
• The Anderson Cooper show (May 12, 2009) click here
• The Advocate: "An Officer & A Gentlemen" (July 6, 2009) click here