Tag: Iron Hinge

Alvine Bell

Alvine Bell pic

June 17, 1949 – August 27, 1998

Detroit native Alvine Eugene Bell performed as Elaine St. Jacques at such venues as Bookie’s, My Fair Lady, and the Other Side, winning the titles of Miss Iron Hinge in 1974, Miss Todd’s in 1981, and Miss Michigan in 1982, as well as the first Miss Gigi’s crown in 1975.  Bell held an administrative position with the HIV/AID service organization Project Survivor.  He died from AIDS-related complications at age 49.

No known obituary

Joseph Maldonado

Joseph Maldanado pic

March 22, 1949 – July 25, 1989

Born in Detroit, Joseph Daniel Maldonado grew up in Saginaw and moved back to Detroit following high school.  Through much of the 1970s he performed as Dani DiLetto at such clubs at Morey’s, the Iron Hinge, and Bookie’s Club 870.  DiLetto was awarded the title of Miss Gay America in 1976 when the original winner had the crown rescinded.  He died from AIDS-related complications at age 40.

Saginaw News, July 27, 1989

This Week in Texas, August 11, 1989