Category Archives: Recommended
Iconic Boystown Chicago to Get a Name Change
History is about to be erased and changed –
This is making National AND International news!
Chicago’s LGBTQ ‘hood has long been called ‘Boystown’, but business leaders have decided its time for a re-brand.
The move comes after a petition gained steam over the summer which described Boystown as the “only gendered nickname” of any city’s LGBTQ district. (The petition gained over 1,500 signatures, although a counter-petition to keep the name had over 2,000.)
HISTORY – The Boystown section of Lakeview was the first officially recognized gay village in the United States.
It is also the cultural center of one of the largest lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) communities in the nation. Boystown has grown into a cultural center for the LGBT residents living within the Chicago metropolitan area. The district’s informal boundaries, overlapping with Lakeview East, are Irving Park Road on the north, Broadway on the east, Wellington Avenue on the south, and Sheffield Avenue on the west. The Center on Halsted, an LGBT community center, is also located in this area.
Boystown is known for its colorful, lively nightlife and inviting atmosphere. Boystown also includes some of Chicago’s off-Loop theater, specialty restaurants, greystone and brownstone walk-up buildings and other historic architecture, trendy fashion outlets, wine boutiques, chain stores, and independent shops. The city’s annual Gays and Lesbians Chicago Pride Parade begins at the intersection of Montrose and Broadway, runs south along Broadway then Halsted to Belmont, turns east on Belmont to Broadway again, then south to Diversey, and then east to Sheridan Road.
From QUEERTY –“Systemic transphobia, racism, and sexism have plagued our neighborhood for decades, and it begins at the top, with the all-male board of the Northalsted Business Alliance. It begins with the BOYSTOWN signs down our street announcing that this neighborhood is ‘for the boys,’ though the signs hang above our diverse Legacy Walk of several LGBTQ icons in our history.
“To promote the inclusion of transgender, nonbinary, lesbian, and intersex individuals, we submit this petition for the Northalsted Business Alliance to simply follow the other LGBTQ neighborhoods across the world by marketing the area based on its location, North Halsted, not the majority gender of those people who sit on the Northalsted Business Alliance board This is only the beginning of the many changes needed in the North Halsted area.”
So what’s going to be the new name?????? WHO KNOW’S ?!
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Wing it with Wendy Sitti Chicago’s Hilarious Socialite
SHE IS thee Chicago Socialite and a woman of the world!
Laughter is best medicine and Wendy Sitti knows how to serve it up!
It’s true: laughter is strong medicine. It draws people together in ways that trigger healthy physical and emotional changes in the body. Laughter strengthens your immune system, boosts mood, diminishes pain, and protects you from the damaging effects of stress.
Wonderful, witty, wild and wacky, EVERYONE loves Wendy! With her infectious laugh and her wacky ways she will have you forget your troubles in a few short minutes.
Wing it with Wendy! Wendy Sitti now has a channel and a show! “I will have episodes of DIY Do it Yourself Shows, of various domestication from cooking, gardening, home improvement, travel to unique places and landmarks, in Drag Queen style. We will also have guest appearances by celebrities and film episodes from exotic places around the world to also my home!”
Truly entertaining! – BestGayChicago.com
We hope this channel will entertain you and teach you a new trick or two! At press time, 3 episodes are out now!
“I was born in Warsaw, Poland. The apple of my parents eye! I was raised on a farm and later went to work in my dads sausage factory. That is where I met Stanley in high school and where we went to prom. He was nice but I knew I needed something bigger, it must of been from being around all of that sausage. I wanted to go to America.” Wendy tells us.
“After saving enough money, I flew to Chicago and realized I had no place to stay. I called my cousin Rich and moved in with him.”
“I know America is the land of opportunity and I was excited to make it big. I dyed my hair black to fit in and have a different look. But then some woman, Mrs. Richfield told me I was moving in on her scene. I went back to my natural color and started doing all kinds of odd jobs. Cleaning rooms at a hotel on Halsted called Steamworks, to cleaning the rooms at the Elysium Hotel in Mykonos. I kind of became a big thing and I’m not talking about my boobs!”
“I enjoy fashion, drinking, socializing and hanging out with nice people. If you want your event to Pop, like my cherry then invite me!”
also Wendy on Instagram
and her website
Art of Healthy Cooking with Chef Tong Oct. 26th
Chef Christopher Tong of the upscale Chicago-based private gourmet dining service, My Private Chef returns to Bloomingdale’s for a Healthy Cooking demonstration during the Wellness Event. He will give tips about ingredients and serving. And, everyone gets to have a taste!
Chef Chris will serve some of his favorite recipes:
-Roasted Cauliflower Soup with Cumin and Curry
-Baked Salmon with Fennel, Bell Peppers, Kalamata Olives, Cherry Tomatoes and Basil
-Crustless Apple Pie, Vanilla Bean Ice Cream
The demonstration will take place on Saturday, October 26, 2019 from 2-4 p.m. at the Bloomingdale’s Home & Furniture Store at Medinah Temple, 600 N. Wabash Avenue,Chicago. Culinary Kitchen on 1. Come early because the seats fill up fast.
For more information about My Private Chef, contact Event Services at 773.370.8131
or visit our web site: www.myprivatechef.net
One Night Only Special Dinner Sept 5th
Exclusive Maestro Dobel Agave Dinner
Thursday, September 5th, 2019 | 7:00 p.m. | Chicago
Nothing makes us happier than a good tequila cocktail…and this event has THREE!
We’ll spend the night dining and drinking on El Mariachi’s patio with special guest speaker and field brand specialist, Dean Stojanov from Maestra Dobel Tequila.
For only $50/person Dean will take Lakeview Supper Club members through a 3-course Agave Dinner (see above for menu). *Gratuity not included. Members can bring up to 4 guests at membership pricing.
The password to purchase tickets is: TeAmoTequila
> Click Here to Purchase Tickets!
Mothers Day Brunch with a Mexican Twist
This May 12th, treat Mom to something you know will make both of you smile: a delightful brunch or dinner with you!
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Best Cinco De Mayo WEEKEND in Lakeview!
Sure, Cinco de Mayo is one day – but celebrate all weekend!
Weather is looking nice! The patio will be open!
Friday, Saturday and Sunday, drink specials, brunch deals and more at two of favorite restaurants;
El Mariachi Tequila Bar & Grill 3906 N. Broadway
and Revolucion Mexican Steakhouse 3420 N. Broadway.
Cinco de Mayo, or the fifth of May, is a holiday that celebrates the date of the Mexican army’s 1862 victory over France at the Battle of Puebla during the Franco-Mexican War. The day, which falls on Sunday, May 5 in 2019, is also known as Battle of Puebla Day. While it is a relatively minor holiday in Mexico, in the United States, Cinco de Mayo has evolved into a commemoration of Mexican culture and heritage, particularly in areas with large Mexican-American populations.
New Years Day Never Afters Party 7am
If you are like me, I hate the crowds, the lines and the high prices on New Years Eve!
We like to go out early, have some drinks with friends and be in bed by 11! I know, we’re old! But we have already done New Years Eve many many MANY times!
So this party sounds amazing! It starts at 7am New Years Day! So whether you stay up all night or want to take a break in between, the amazing folks at Neverland are presenting this Never Afters Party!
TUESDAY January 1st from 7:00am-1:00pm or later: Regarded by industry vets as one of the best afterhours dance parties in circulation right now, Happily Never Afters has taken the Chicago scene by storm.
This is a NO FRILLS event: No dancers, no hosts, no drama, no attitude, no one bothering you, and no fucks given. Party starts at 7:00am on New Year’s Day, so either stay up all night New Year’s Eve, or take a puppy nap. If you’re trying to look fresh for the party, don’t bother: it’ll be too dark and foggy for anyone to see clearly. Plus, Happily Never Afters isn’t about getting all dolled up. It’s about letting loose in a safe space and having the time of your life, all while ringing in the New Year.
MUSIC by DJ Serving Ovahness (Los Angeles) and DJ Alex Cabot (Neverland Resident)
Presale tickets NOW for just $20!
FYI – The best resource for New Years Eve parties in the gay community can be found at GRAB MAGAZINE.
AIDS Run Walk Chicago Sept 23rd
2018 AIDS Run & Walk Chicago Encourages Community to “Live True. Be You.”
On Sunday, Sept. 23, HIV advocates from across Chicago will live true at the 2018 AIDS Run & Walk Chicago. Held at Soldier Field, the 17th annual event will raise awareness and funds for the AIDS Foundation of Chicago (AFC) and 34 CommunityDirect partners, with proceeds benefiting programs and services improving the lives of Chicagoans living with and vulnerable to HIV.
Approximately, 2,500 participants gathered last year to participate in one of the city’s most vibrant annual runs and walks. This year’s event will mobilize the community under the theme “Live true. Be you.”
“When individuals live authentically and are encouraged to share their truth and stories, it fosters a sense of community, understanding and acceptance,” explains Dustin Erikstrup, AFC’s Senior Manager of Special Events. “In this unpredictable political climate, it is important to live openly, unapologetically and free from stigma. AIDS Run & Walk Chicago provides that safe place for participants to express themselves freely.”
AFC isn’t the only beneficiary of this event; 34 community organizations serving Chicago’s South, West and North sides, as well as surrounding counties, are beneficiaries of the funds raised at AIDS Run & Walk Chicago as part of the CommunityDirect program. To kick off the race’s fundraising efforts, each participating organization will be entering their own team into the 5K walk or the 5K and 10K runs. Many CommunityDirect partners have been a part of AIDS Run & Walk Chicago for a number of years, which provides many opportunities for organizations to participate.
Recently, AFC, the Illinois Department of Public Health, the Chicago Department of Public Health, and other statewide partners launched the planning phase for the Getting to Zero Illinois (GTZ-IL) campaign. The goal of this state-wide joint initiative is to end the HIV epidemic in Illinois by 2030 through partnerships with community-based organizations, health care providers, local government agencies and local members of the Illinois’ HIV community. If Illinois increases current rates of PrEP (a daily prevention pill that is up to 99 percent effective when taken consistently and correctly) and HIV treatment substantially, Illinois can reach fewer than 100 new HIV cases per year. The epidemic will then be unable to sustain itself, reaching, “functional zero.”
Approximately 43,500 Illinoisans are living with HIV, and AIDS Run & Walk Chicago provides the perfect opportunity to raise money to support those in the community and help end the stigma around HIV.
Since its 2001 acquisition by the AIDS Foundation of Chicago, the event has netted more than $5 million to battle the epidemic. For more information or to participate, visitaidsrunwalk.org or call 312-334-0946.
The pre-registration deadline is just a few weeks away!
Wanda Sykes and Adam Rippon September 14th!
The Chicago House Speaker Series Luncheon never disappoints! This year I am SO EXCITED, two people I think are just fantastic, Wanda Sykes and Adam Rippon will be speaking September 14, 2018!
I think everyone knows both of these names. Neither needs much an introduction.
In November 2008, Wanda Sykes publicly came out as a lesbian while at a same-sex marriage rally in Las Vegas regarding Proposition 8. Her career was really just taking off. A month earlier, Sykes had married her partner Alex Niedbalski, a French woman, whom she had met in 2006. The couple also became parents on April 27, 2009, when Alex gave birth to a pair of fraternal twins, daughter Olivia Lou and son Lucas Claude.
Wanda was not planning to come out publicly as a lesbian during her impromptu 2008 speech in Las Vegas. But she did!
“When I came out, it wasn’t a planned thing at all. It was a national day of protest against the passage of Prop 8,” Sykes says in an exclusive clip from the documentary. “I said, ‘Okay where’s the rally, we are going to go to the rally.’ And I did. And in my speech I said that I got married and I’m p—–.”
She realized later the magnitude of the statement.
“I get to the hotel, turn on the TV and on the CNN scroll it says ‘Comedian Wanda Sykes: ‘I’m proud to be gay.'”
“I was like, ‘Oh, this is a big (expletive) deal. I’m a black woman. A celebrity. And I’m out.’ It was big deal. No regrets
In 2009, she was named in Out magazine’s “Annual Power 50 List”, landing at number 35. In 2010 she won a GLAAD award for promoting a good image of equal rights for gays and lesbians.
ADAM RIPPON was everywhere this past year and became a household name.
If you hadn’t heard of figure skater Adam Rippon before the Pyeongchang Olympics, there’s no doubt you know him now. Rippon won a bronze medal with the U.S. in the team skate competition … and he stole the show with his personality and courageous story. Before posing for ESPN’s Body Issue, the “Dancing With the Stars: Athletes” champ weighed in on coming out, overcoming injury and competing at the highest level.
Adam is an inspiration to so many !
The first openly gay man to qualify and win a medal for the U.S. Winter Olympics team, Rippon went on to win Dancing With the Stars: Athletes.
He recently signed up to be a judge on Dancing With the Stars: Juniors, which premieres October 7 on ABC.
Time said he is one the most influential people of 2018! CHER said, “He has humility, grace and an incredible sense of humor.”
We all know and understand the importance of coming “OUT”. 30 years ago, we did not have these awesome role models we have today!
His mother, Kelly, raised her kids with tolerance. They went to Catholic school, but she exposed them to various religions and wouldn’t let them use words such as “stupid” or “hate.” But kids at school and things he watched and read made him feel like something was wrong with him. His voice was always a little higher. He tried to speak lower so no one would notice. His mannerisms were different from the other boys’. He tried to change those, too.
“I think about it now, and it’s so sad,” Rippon said. “. . . I hope young kids don’t ever have to feel like that.”
Chicago House, the leading social services provider for housing and support for those living with HIV/AIDS, is thrilled to announce the 2018 Speaker Series headlined by Wanda Sykes and Adam Rippon on Friday, September 14th. Held at the historic Hilton Chicago Grand Ballroom from 11 AM – 2 PM, the luncheon will feature an exclusive VIP meet and greet reception and premier cuisine benefiting Chicago House. Emceed by NBC Chicago reporter Chris Hush, guests can expect laughs, stories of triumphs and resilience from these two dynamic and prominent figures in the LGBTQ community as the 8th Speaker Series highlights the theme of “Authentic Selves.” Tickets $200-$500.
Sexy Meat STK Steakhouse
Sexy chic lounge meets modern steak house. STK.
The ONE Group, based in New York, has positioned STK as “women friendly,” trying to break the conception that steakhouses are only meant for men. A DJ booth brings a curated playlist to diners, creating more of a nightclub vibe, hoping diners opt to party after their meal, or even while they’re digesting their wet-aged beef. No need to bar hop, as STK’s other spots haven’t been as concerned about the menu as they are in developing a trendy, and sexy, scene to draw the clientele who would normally roll their eyes at the notion of dining at a steakhouse.
From Forbes to Zagat to Facebook, dinners are loving this place!
Recently we had the chance to sample some of their new recipes from their Fall menu, being unveiled in October. But first, we started with their Strawberry Cobbler Martini.
Fresh strawberries, Belvedere vodka and a graham cracker rim.
Another classic that I could live on is their signature tuna tartare!
Besides what they are known for we got a sampling of some excellent new dishes!
*NEW Roasted Root Vegetable Salad: Squash, parsnip, celery root, living water greens, brown butter vinaigrette
*NEW Roasted Slagel Chicken: Celery root purée, celery salad, jus
*NEW Roasted Rack of Lamb: Charred broccoli, huckleberry vinaigrette, black garlic jus
*NEW Grilled Branzino: Roasted thumbelina carrots, kale, carrot purée, grilled lemon
Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad: Apple, cranberry, aged goat cheese, marcona almonds
Potato Bar: Creamy yukon potatoes and sweet potatoes, bacon, scallion, sour cream, cheese, marshmallows, candied pecans, short rib. TO DIE FOR!
How about finishing your meal with fresh warm doughnuts covered in various toppings?
Or perhaps their signature Chocolate mousse layered cake?
Their menu features a nice variety of re-imagined classic American cuisine with signature dishes. STK defines the modern fine dining experience with incredible food, world-class service and the perfect atmosphere.
Aside from steak, signature items also include Parmesan Truffle Fries, Lil BRG’s, and sweet corn pudding. Incredible food and a wonderful hip atmosphere!
This is not your daddy’s steakhouse!
STK Chicago, 9 W. Kinzie St., (312) 340-5636
all photo credit goes to the incomparable Matthew Mitrick of Mitrick Photography!
Private Night at Six Flags Sept. 8th
Out In The Park at Six Flags Great America
Returns in 2018 for Year 7!
A Private Night in the Park to Celebrate Diversity
Presented by Toyota & BestGayChicago.com
That Will Help Benefit Lakeside pride Music Ensemble
Saturday, September 8th, 2018 from 7:30PM to 12AM
Out In The Park is an annual private diversity event featuring unlimited riding of ALL Six Flags Great America’s amazing THRILL rides (with much shorter than usual lines! The park is only 35% full!) with a portion of all ticket sales each year helping to benefit various non-profits.
For 2018, it will benefit LAKESIDE PRIDE MUSIC ENSEMBLE! “One of the best elements of this event is that it is closed to the general public and this year our event piggy-backs a daytime corporate buyout so our attendees will be entering an EMPTY PARK!” explains Michael Snell, co-owner of BestGayChicago.com. “The LGBTQ community, their family, friends and supporters can enjoy the park with shorter lines and without homophobic or bigotry from anyone. It’s like a Fall Pride Celebration!”
It’s important to us that everyone—no matter who you are, how you identify, or where you’re from—feel comfortable and confident. Our message is simple: You are welcome here.
Singer, songwriter, producer and DJ ADAM JOSEPH will be playing his music in JB’s bar for 2 hours at the event. Then he play again from 1am – 3am at CHARLIE’S, the Official After Party in Boystown. (Charlies will also be offering a limited number of bus seats to and from the park – details soon!
“We are honored that some of our peers including GRAB Magazine, ChicagoPride.com and QUEST Magazine in Wisconsin also help us by donating advertising space for this event! It’s truly a community event where everyone comes together for the greater good!” says Derrick Sorles.
Advance $43 tickets can be purchased NOW HERE
Attendees get FREE parking for this special event!
September 1st the price goes up to $48.
$53 at the gate, IF AVAILABLE.
This event is capped at only 5,000 tickets, to ensure lines stay short for the rides.
Season Passes cannot be honored for special events.
All ages event.
Drinks are available for purchase to those 21+
Chicago Market Days Entertainment
Northalsted Serves Up Summer’s Best Fest
Market Days Returns August 11-12
The Northalsted Business Alliance delivers a diverse and dance heavy line-up for this year’s Market Days set for August 11 and 12. The must-do Midwest fest returns to the heart of Boystown with non-stop entertainment from four stages, shopping, food and more.
Multi-faceted entertainer Todrick Hall graces the stage as part of his Forbidden tour on Saturday, while Betty Who brings the beat on Sunday with her power pop. MAX, of gold single “Lights Down Low” fame closes out the festival on Sunday night. Additional national and local acts round out the line-up.
Northalsted Business Alliance Executive Director Chad Honeycutt explains the popularity of Market Days. “For more than 30 years Northalsted Market Days has set the bar for Chicago festivals and this year is no exception. We can’t wait to welcome our neighbors and visitors alike to celebrate summer in Boystown.”
About the Northalsted Business Alliance (NBA)
Formed in 1980, NBA represents more than 100 businesses along the Halsted Street corridor. The organization hosts major events throughout the year including Chicago Pride Fest, Northalsted Market Days, the Halloween Parade and Frost Fest. For information about NBA visitwww.northalsted.com.
Northalsted Market Days
North Halsted (From Belmont to Addison)
August 11-12 11 am – 10 pm $10 Suggestion Donation
Northalsted Market Days 2018/Saturday, Aug 11th
Addison North Stage
1:30P-3:30PM Drag Show
2:30PM-3:30PM Todrick Hall
3:30PM-4:15PM Trenyce
5:00PM-6:30PM Cat Fight
7:00PM-7:45PM Kimberly Locke
7:50PM-8:35PM Ultra Nate
8:40PM-9:25PM Martha Wash
Roscoe Stage
1:15PM-2:30PM Hello Weekend
3:15PM-4:30PM Girl Power Night
5:00PM-5:45PM DJ
5:45P-6:25PM Crystal Waters
6:25PM-7:00PM DJ
7:00PM-7:45PM Ty Herndon
8:20-9:45PM Hank & Cupcake
Aldine Jazz Stage
130PM-3:00PM Sam Fazio Quartet
5:30PM-7:30PM Feathered Beaus
NORTHALSTED MARKETDAYS 2018/Sunday, Aug 12th
Addison North Stage
1:00PM-2:00PM DJ
2:00PM-2:45PM Betty Who
3:30PM-4:30PM Sushi Roll
4:45PM-6:15PM DJ
6:15PM-7:00PM Expose
7:00PM-9:00PM DJ
9:00PM-9:55PM MAX
Roscoe Stage
1:00PM-1:45PM Chicago Gay Men’s Chorus
2:15PM-3:45PM Boy Band
4:15PM-5:00PM Kristine W
5:15PM-7:15PM Rod Tuffcurls
7:45PM-9:45PM 16 Candles
Aldine Jazz Stage
1:30PM-3:00PM BMR4
3:30PM-5:00PM Joe Policastro Trio
5:30PM-7:30PM The Flat Cats
Best Cinco De Mayo in Chicago
Cinco de Mayo is a cultural phenomenon in the United States. It’s a time to celebrate Mexican culture and, for some, an opportunity to drink a lot of margaritas and cerveza.
Contrary to popular belief, Cinco de Mayo is not Mexico’s independence day.Mexican independence is celebrated Sept.16. Cinco de Mayo commemorates theMexican army’s unlikely victory over the French forces of Napoleon III on May 5, 1862, at the Battle of Puebla.
In the United States, Cinco de Mayo has taken on a significance beyond that in Mexico. In the U.S. the date has become associated with the celebration of Mexican-American culture. In Mexico, the commemoration of the battle continues to be mostly ceremonial, such as through military parades.
The 2 BEST places to celebrate are in Lakeview!
Revolucion Steak House & El Mariachi Tequila Bar & Restaurant!
SATURDAY AND SUNDAY! 2 days, 2 ways to celebrate! Brunch and Dinner!
Chicago Apartment Hunting Season
Don’t waste hours hunting online for an apartment, booking appointments, finding old ads where the apartment has already been rented 🙁
Use ME, a “renter’s agent” who will work for YOU!
And there is NO COST to YOU!
At SPACES Real Estate we work with over 100 landlords and property management companies. We have over 2000 apartments listed PLUS another 2000+ high rise listings. We have access to the biggest database of apartments in the city!
Let’s find YOU a Space you LOVE!
Call Michael “LOVE” Snell
773-206-8359
Apartment Leasing Specialist / Renter’s Agent
Spaces Real Estate
3223 N Sheffield, Suite C, Chicago 60657
Sarah and Rachel – Lesbian Vloggers
We recently discovered these lesbian vloggers, who have been creating YouTube content for some time now! They recently relocated to Chicago. They create new vlogs as frequently as possible, plus unscripted comedy, challenges, travel and entrepreneurship videos, and LGBT advice content. Vegetarians and devoted moms to their kitten, Mumford.
Well it looks like you moved here from Iowa? How long have you been here in Chicago?
Yeah! We moved to the city in July and have loved every minute of it so far!
What brought you here?
Besides the appeal of a vibrant city with so much energy and activity, we were attracted to the opportunities to advance our career goals. There’s such a great LGBTQ+ community here that we love and we do a lot of traveling, so it’s a great centrally located hub with a big airport! There are, of course, it’s other perks: deep dish pizza, the amazing Chicago sports teams, and tons of vegan restaurants for us to try out!
How long have you been together?
We have been together for 5 and a half years! It’s been such a crazy ride, but we’ve loved exploring the world and starting a business together. It’s so special that we get to share our relationship online to help so many other people and document the things we do together.
How long have you been doing videos?
We started making videos in March of 2015. At that time we wanted to start a channel as a way to have a creative outlet and a place to practice our cinematography and editing skills, because of our interest in film. As we started to pick up a following, we realized that we really had an opportunity to share some of the difficult experiences we’ve been through with coming out, self acceptance, etc with our audience. We began to share our stories online and have since been able to help literally thousands of people who send us messages and use our channel as a resource for similar struggles. Our videos have led us across the world to countries in Europe and the Caribbean to create travels films, vlogs and attend conventions for YouTube creators. We would love to see one of these conventions come to Chicago someday!
Besides vlogging, do you both do other work in Chicago?
We both have small part time jobs within the city, but what we spend the most of our time doing and what we love the most is our work on YouTube and other social platforms. Being in Chicago has already afforded us some opportunities to attend events and get involved locally using our videos. We’re looking forward to continuing to grow that more and more!
Check them out here!
Also check their podcast “Between The Sheets” that comes out every Wednesday on iTunes and soundcloud!
SOFA Art and Design Show 2017 Nov 2-5
The Sculpture Objects Functional Art and Design (SOFA) Fair in Chicago is the premier gallery-presented art fair dedicated to three-dimensional art and design. On par with Art Basel and TEFAF Maastricht, SOFA is produced by Urban Expositions, a Clarion Events company.
Critically acclaimed and continuously running since 1994, what distinguishes SOFA from other top art events is its focus on three-dimensional artworks that cross the boundaries of fine art, decorative art and design. SOFA is noted for its exceptional presentation, with an elite selection of international dealers presenting for sale one-of-a-kind masterworks in handsome, custom-designed gallery exhibits.
SOFA is held annually in the fall at Chicago’s major destination, Navy Pier, with an average of 80 dealers and 35,000 people attending. Sales at the fair are estimated at 15-20 million dollars per show.
With a strong educational emphasis, SOFA CHICAGO includes an acclaimed lecture series and special exhibits exploring the artworks on view and surveying new trends in the art world. A VIP program includes exclusive events tailored to high-profile gallery clients and collector/museum groups.
SOFA has evolved into a dynamic international marketplace and community – a confluence of perspectives where art, design and people intersect. BUY TICKETS ONLINE!
Cirque style Show Flip FabriQue Oct 7
“Flip FabriQue projects an irrepressible spirit of fun and, yes, it’s catching.”
–The New York Times (Photo by Benoit Lemay)
In the mood to party with friends? Then join Flip FabriQue for their stunning, gravity-defying show Catch Me! Leave your troubles behind and settle in for an astonishing, lively show that will leave you smiling from ear to ear. Spectacular acrobatics, a one-of-a-kind trampowall and humor are all part of the spellbinding fun.
The company was created in 2011 by graduated students of Quebec City Circus School. They performed extensively with esteemed companies around the world such as Cirque du Soleil and Cirque Éloize.
The company adopts a creative and collaborative approach developed entirely by its artists and director. This approach spotlights each performer’s qualities and strengths to create pure magic on stage.
The identity of the troupe comes from the true emotions behind each artist’s eyes. They are all true friends that journey in the same direction. Their show is about their friendship and the feelings they have for each other. The public can still feel their raw emotions even when they perform very high acrobatics and hard circus skills during their performances.
Flip FabriQue wants to promote joy, playfulness and friendship.
Tickets: $30 General Public
$25 Seniors, Staff
$15 Students
BUY TICKETS
THE LARK opens in Boystown Chicago!
LKH Management (LKH), the group behind Andersonville’s recently opened Replay and Elixir, announced that its eighth property, Lark, will officially open to the public Thursday, June 16.
The first 50 people through the bar and restaurant’s doors that day, beginning at 5 pm, will receive a voucher for one free pizza, available for redemption by July 31, 2016. Between 5 pm and 2 am, everyone who visits the new venue will be eligible to enter to win free pizza for a year*.
Located at 3441 N. Halsted, in the former Halsted’s Bar + Grill space, Lark will offer an ideal environment for drinks seven nights a week, where guests can listen to music from the 80s and 90s until 2 am Sunday through Friday and 3 am Saturdays, as well as watch music videos from those eras playing on the 13 large screen TVs.
“We’re excited to bring this new addition to the bar scene in Lake View, which features the beautiful original wooden bar from the former Cullen’s Bar & Grill on Southport,” said Mark Liberson, LKH president. “Our weekend guests will enjoy having the chance to select albums from our collection of LPs, play retro board games and dine on our artisanal pizzas with their drinks.”
Lark will also offer authentic Neapolitan wood-fired pizzas, as well as pasta, sandwiches, entrées, salads, appetizers and weekend brunch. Lark plans to be among a handful of officially certified Neapolitan pizza establishments in Chicago. In order to obtain certification from The Associazione Verace Pizza Napolitana (VPN), Lark must adhere to strict guidelines, including what ingredients are used, how the dough is made and how long the pizzas are cooked.
Chefs Bernardo Ibarra (Girl and the Goat) and Kaz Medhat (Magnolia Café), recently leading the culinary team at Replay and Elixir in Andersonville, will helm the Lark kitchen. Creating a menu rich in flavors, the chefs will incorporate inspirations from Italy and beyond while Lark’s beverage director, Vlad Novikov, will curate drink offerings consisting of craft cocktails, extensive wine by the glass options and 16 tap beers.
The 2,400 square foot venue will accommodate approximately 90 people, and open onto one of Lake View’s largest existing patios, doubling the venue’s capacity with nearly 100 additional seats. In addition to bar and table seating, guests can choose to sit and watch the chefs prepare and cook the pizzas around the Mugnaini pizza oven, dine and drink at the historic handcrafted wooden bar, or lounge in comfortable seating surrounding Lark’s working fireplace.
“We can’t wait for everyone to join us and enjoy a taste of something they won’t find elsewhere in the neighborhood,” said Chef Bernardo. “We’re thrilled to share all the special features of the new oven, and to create delicious dishes beyond pizza, incorporating wood-fired items throughout the menu.”
Exposed brick and handcrafted wooden details will line the walls of the new venue. DJs will play 80s and 90s records Thursday through Sunday nights from 10 pm to close.
Lark will be open Monday through Friday 5 pm – 2 am, Saturday from 10 am – 3 am, Sunday 10 am – 2 am. Dinner will be served every night from 5-10 pm. Brunch will be available 10 am – 3 pm Saturday and Sunday. Late-night pizza and limited menu options will also be available nightly until close.
Please visit http://www.larkchicago.
*One winner will receive one free pizza per week for one year (52 total pizzas) starting Monday, June 20, 2016. Limitations will apply.
Chicago Personal Trainer Fitness Tips
Right Fit for You
Chicago Trainer Pat Charette will be a new fitness contributor to BestGayChicago.com with tips to keep you fit!
For Pat Charette, healthy living is a passion and lifestyle. He helps promote and educate this lifestyle through sports nutrition, training, strength and conditioning, flexibility/mobility, and safe/effective supplementation. In college, Pat earned a degree in Sports Medicine which taught him how to train athletes as well as the general public.
He loves the fitness industry and looks at it as prevention, not treatment. Let Pat help you fully optimize your life!
THIS WEEK on YouTube he talks about BURNING BODY FAT!
7 Steps to help with Fat Loss! of course – it takes will power too – be he reveals some tips that you may not be doing….. WATCH
The Client/Trainer relationship is very intimate. Personal Trainers not only help their clients get into tip-top shape, but many of them become a client’s friend and someone they confide in and trust. If you aren’t comfortable and can’t truly be yourself with your Personal Trainer, chances are you will not reach your full potential.
“Right Fit for You wasn’t solely created because of a fear of running into a close minded Personal Trainer, but because I wanted to provide the LGBT community with an online marketplace of Personal Trainers that the LGBT community can relate to– no questions asked, no insecurities. At the end of the day, Right Fit for You is all about ensuring a comfortable personal training atmosphere for the LGBT community from beginning to end. Every certified Personal Trainer profiled on Right Fit for You will not only will help you get into shape, but will also identify as LGBT or as a straight ally to the community.” says founder Sam Provenzano
Cuddle and Touch for Emotional and Physical Needs
We all want love, acceptance and connection with other people. We’re social beings, and this connection with others is part of our emotional, physical and spiritual DNA.
Touch plays an important role in building these connections, increasing scientific evidence clearly shows a connection that lack of touch can lead to depression, anxiety and a myriad of heath issues, and an inability to connect with others.
Most of us don’t get enough touch in our lives.
We’re touch-deprived, and most of us don’t even know it consciously. All we know is that there’s loneliness and stress and a deep sense of missing out. We feel this because there’s a biochemical yearning for something that is missing in our lives. And there is something missing: touch and the connection with others that it fosters.
“That’s why we started Cuddlist,” says Adam Lippin, Co-founder and CEO of CUDDLIST. “Safe, non-sexual, consensual touch fills a need that’s badly neglected in our society. Cuddling relaxes us and reduces stress at the very least, and on the deeper level it nourishes our soul and helps us get in touch with our higher self. Much like yoga and meditation, non-sexual touch is healing and transformative.”
Cuddlist brings together those who need touch (and that would be just about all of us!) with Certified, professional cuddlers who are experienced, safe, well-versed in cuddling techniques and follow a code of conduct that set the conditions for a great session. There have been LOTS of press on this group over the last year – check it out HERE.
THE CHICAGO NETWORK IS GROWING!
Become a certified CUDDLIST or FIND a CUDDLIST in Chicago
While any two people can cuddle, of course, what sets Cuddlist apart is that we are creating the marketplace for transformative cuddling, and we bring the professionalism and best practices that make it work; Cuddlist training is overseen by my co-founder, Madelon Guinazzo, and she both has years of experience as a full-time Cuddlist and knowledge of what works in practice.
While Cuddlist is something special, and fills an important gap in our world, I also want to share what it means to me personally.
“I’ve been a yoga and meditation practitioner for more than 20 years. Yoga has been an animating principle in my life that has seen me through college, drug addiction, the corporate world in New York, loss and death, and the birth of my son and my relationship with my amazing spouse. I’m also a touchy-feely “hugger,” and when I go to shake someone’s hand I’m keenly aware how restricted touch is in our society.”
Most would agree that touch is therapeutic, and the rush of oxytocin we produce when we cuddle is great, but in my experience cuddling also can be something deeper.
American Buddhist Jack Kornfield, in his book, After the Ecstasy, the Laundry: How the Heart Grows Wise on the Spiritual Path, talks about how the simple act of being present can be a deeply spiritual practice. I think cuddling, if non-sexual and approached without expected outcomes in mind, can help us be present and raise our spiritual awareness.
So while I’m a “hugger,” and I immediately see the value that cuddling can play as a corrective in our society, I also think it contains a deeply spiritual component.
Indian civil rights leader Mohandas Gandhi said we must be the change we want to see in the world, and I want to play my part by encouraging non-sexual touch and the emergence of what might be called cuddle yoga.
“Touch is important, and we don’t get enough of it. I want to change that, and that’s why I, along with my Co-Founder, started Cuddlist. Will you join us?”
Are you ready to give yourself the gift of nurturing touch?
Book a therapeutic, non-sexual, cuddle session with a Certified Cuddlist today.
Find out more at CUDDLIST. Learn more; FIND a CUDDLIST and/or become a CUDDLIST!
