Category Archives: Outdoors
Market Days Chicago 2016
Northalsted Market Days® is the largest outdoor street festival in the Midwest! Famous for its vast array of national talent, unique vendors, arts, crafts, food and drink, Northalsted Market Days® gathers a crowd of over 180,000 people from across the globe to celebrate right here on Halsted Street. Past performances include En Vogue, Jennifer Holliday, Lynda Carter, Salt n Pepa, Wilson Phillips and David Cassidy.
Celebrating its 35th anniversary this year, Northalsted Market Days® is set to be the biggest and best it has ever been!
A $10 suggested donation helps keep our neighborhood safe, beautiful, and fun. Also benefiting from your donation is The Legacy Project, the worlds first outdoor museum, featuring LGBTQ icons throughout history, serving to tell their stories.
A Walking Play – NATURE
Here is something really unique and different, in Chicagoland for a limited time!
TigerLion Arts presents Nature, the mythic telling of Emerson and Thoreau’s mutual love affair with the natural world. Grounded in the story of their friendship, this virtuosic production offers a perspective on their lives that is strikingly relevant, richly complex, and yet utterly simple. Nature is performed outdoors as a “walking play.” A professional ensemble of actors takes the audience on a journey through the natural environment as scenes unfold around them. Bagpipes, ancient flutes, drums and rich choral arrangements are intricately woven into the experience.
Nature is an extraordinary, family-friendly journey that co-mingles story, spirit, and nature, as a means to reconnect its audience with the natural world. This original work is collaboratively created with writer/actor Tyson Forbes, a direct descendant of Ralph Waldo Emerson.
In today’s world, we are so estranged from our natural environment, and at TigerLion Arts, we feel that humankind must reconnect with nature in order to survive.
As oil spills into our oceans, as we race through our lives, as we look further and further outside ourselves for the answers, it is our hope that Nature can be a catalyst for our collective healing.
The 2016 tour of NATURE is currently making it’s stop at the 1,700 acre Morton Arboretum in Lisle – about 45 minutes west of Chicago.
Here through July 31st!
Thursdays through Sundays at 6:00 p.m.
Saturdays and Sundays at 1:30 p.m.
Thornhill Shelter at Parking Lot P21
How long is the show?
90 mins/No Intermission
Come early for a 30-minute pre-show performance that includes bagpiping and choral music to enjoy! If possible, plan your trip so you can spend some time on the grounds. Bring a picnic to enjoy before or after the show.
BUY TICKETS HERE!
More details about the show HERE!
Six Flags Private Night September 10
Out In The Park at Six Flags Great America
Returns in 2016 for Year 5!
A Private Night in the Park to Celebrate Diversity
Presented by MINI Cooper Chicago & Fireball
That Will Help Benefit TPAN’s Ride For Aids
Saturday, September 10th, 2016 from 7:30PM to 12AM
Singer, actor, director, choreographer and YouTuber TODRICK HALL performs live this for this year’s fifth annual Out In The Park Celebration of Diversity!
All night, attendees can follow the bass to the Hometown Square dance area where The DJ’s of SCARLET Bar Chicago/Honolulu, hostess Khloe and some dancers will keep the party jumping.
Out In The Park is an annual private diversity fundraising event featuring unlimited riding of ALL Six Flags Great America’s amazing THRILL rides (with much shorter than usual lines!) with a portion of all ticket sales each year help benefit various non-profits. “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 little to short lines and without homophobic hassles from anyone. It’s like a Fall Gay Pride Celebration with even MORE amusement and entertainment!”
In an interview with ChicagoPride.com: “We are very excited that this private night for charity continues to grow every year and we have gifted over $35,000 to various groups,” said Derrick Sorles, Snell’s husband of 17 years and business partner, “We are more than thrilled that the amazing Todrick Hall has signed on to be with us this year. He is in the middle of his “Straight Outta Oz” tour and took a break to be with us and perform!”
“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 $41 tickets can be purchased NOW at www.CelebrateDiversityChicago.com
Attendees get FREE parking for this special event! September 5th the price goes up to $46. $51 at the gate, IF AVAILABLE. This event is capped at only 5,000 tickets, to enure lines stay short for the rides. All ages event. Drinks are available for purchase to those 21+
Hotels –if you are coming to Chicago for the weekend, we have 3 hotel choices in the heart of Boystown! CITY SUITES, WILLOWS HOTEL and MAJESTIC HOTEL. All the hotels are on our website GaySixFlagsChicago.com
BestGayChicago.com
Since 2007, BestGayChicago.com has been providing the best of everything gay and gay-friendly in the greater Chicago area. Owned and operated by Best Gay Inc., their sites provide news, information, travel tips and entertainment for the LGBT community.
Garden Chefs July 24th
JULY 24-CHICAGO BOTANIC GARDEN GARDEN CHEF SERIES
Chef Tong will appear again this year at the Garden Chef Series sponsored by the Colorado Tourism Board and Food Network Magazine.
Chef Tong will show how to make a delicious dish featuring Colorado bison.
Bison Steak with Ancho Chile Blueberry Sauce and Sweet Mashed Potatoes
Chef Chris will appear on Sunday, July 24, 2016 at 1:30 and 2:30 p.m. in the
Regenstein Fruit & Vegetable Garden, Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe, Illinois.
Chef Tong will give tips on ingredients, and serving. And, everyone gets to have a taste! Seating is limited and on a first-come, first served basis.
Admission to the Chicago Botanic Garden and Garden Chef Series is free.
For more information about this Garden Chef Series event and parking fees, please call 847.835.5440 or visit www.chicagobotanic.org.
My Private Chef is enjoying popularity as ne of Chicago’s favorite private gourmet dining services.Trained in European-style fine cuisine, Chef Tong established his reputation at fine restaurants and hotels in Florida, California, and Chicago. Now he has adapted his impressive skillsto the world of private entertaining. My Private Chef offers enticing
cuisine for a wide range of events, from intimate dinners to weddings to corporate parties.
Chef Chris says: “Every event is different and I’ve met some wonderful people including many celebrities. Being part of very special occasions makes my work worthwhile. I also love conducting cooking demonstrations where I get the feeling that audience members will go home and try some new
dishes!”
For more information about My Private Chef, contact Event Services at 773.370.8131 or visit our web site: www.myprivatechef.net
Kenosha Pride July 15-17
3 days of pride in Kenosha!
Join us for the best Kenosha Pride yet!
The Pride March will begin organizing at Library Park in downtown Kenosha. We will begin around Noon with the March stepping off around 12:30 PM.
The Pride Party will begin at 1:00 PM with music by DJ Lomax. Entertainment for the day will include comedians, drag performances, and a band. There will be a Children’s Area with face painting and a bounce house. The Pride Party will be at Harbor Park Parcel A, the green space across from Trolley Dogs Restaurant on 6th Ave and 55th St. Facebook page HERE.
Neverland Pool Party July 2
The Neverland Pool Party is back! One of the most unique summer parties in Chicago (the ONLY big LGBT dance party with a pool) returns for 4th of July weekend on SATURDAY, JULY 2nd. All-day party from noon-8pm with music by Neverland alum DJ JALIL Z (Miami). Deuce’s and the Diamond Club 3505 North Clark Street, Chicago, IL 60657
PRIVATE CABANAS: There are 8 private poolside cabanas. Purchase of a cabana comes with a premium bottle of Belvedere vodka & mixers, and admission for 4 people.
VIP POOLSIDE LOUNGE: There are 2 premium VIP poolside lounges; chic setups along the pool with sofas, a bottle of Belvedere vodka & mixers, and admission for 4 people.
**BEEFED-UP SOUND** provided by ILC, the masterminds behind Neverland’s Metro stage installations & lighting.
or Egoist Underwear (3526 N Halsted) has hard-copy tickets (no service fee) for $15 to the pool party.
Navy Pier LGBT Event June 25th
“Navy Pier Pride 2016” Celebration Salutes Chicago’s LGBT Community
Chicago’s first-ever family Pride celebration outside of Lakeview
takes place at Navy Pier on Saturday, June 25
WOW!!! THIS IS BIG NEWS!
As it marks its 100th anniversary, Navy Pier will make Chicago history as it proudly hosts “Navy Pier Pride 2016,” the city’s first LGBT Pride celebration outside of the Lakeview neighborhood. This family-friendly event features entertainment and events throughout the Pier on Saturday, June 25. As part of the celebration, and for the first time in 28 years, Navy Pier is especially honored to display Chicago-centric sections of the internationally renowned The NAMES Project’s AIDS Memorial Quilt. All events for “Navy Pier Pride 2016” are free and open to the public, as part of the Fifth Third Bank Centennial Celebration®.
As one of Chicago’s top cultural destinations, “Navy Pier Pride 2016” is one of Navy Pier’s new arts, cultural and community programming initiatives. In addition to a lively atmosphere and a pier adorned in rainbows, highlights of this special Pride day-long event will include (times are approximate):
Noon – About Face Theatre’s IT’S FOR REAL is a collection of stories that connects issues around race, class, sexuality, age, gender, self-esteem, and family. Based on the true experiences of the performers in the show.
· 1 p.m. – A kickoff parade, led by the Lakeside Pride Marching Band.
· 1:30 p.m. – Performances by the legendary MILLY’s ORCHID SHOW, featuring Brigid Murphy as “Milly” and with an entire cast of such celebrities as Yuri Lane (“The Harmonica Beatbox Man”) and introducing rising gay icon, his 8-year old daughter, Delilah Rose, along with Alexa Grae, Robert Cornelius (former member of the group, “Poi Dog Pondering”), House-O-Matic, and many others.
· 5 p.m. – “Chicago’s Biggest Wedding,” officiated by Angelica Ross (a leading figure in the movement for transgender and racial equality, and star of the hit series, “Her Story”). Make history with us and your loved one, as we hold a massive marriage ceremony on The Pier.
· 7 p.m. – For outdoor dancing, with the Chicago skyline as a backdrop, join house music superstar and Grammy Award-nominated producer, DJ RALPHI ROSARIO, in the Miller Lite Beer Garden.
· 10:15 p.m. –Guests will observe a moment of reflection to honor those lost in the tragic events in Orlando, followed by a celebration of life with a special Pride-themed fireworks spectacular.
Another historic and moving part of the day is the return of The NAMES Project’s AIDS Memorial Quilt. The much-celebrated Quilt began to take shape in 1987 with a single 3 x 6 foot panel created in San Francisco. Today, it weighs 54 tons and is composed of more than 48,000 individual panels, each one commemorating the life of someone who was lost to AIDS. In 1988, Navy Pier became one of the first venues nationally to put The Quilt on public display.
“Throughout its 100-year history, Navy Pier has led the way in demonstrating compassion and commitment, while celebrating diversity and inclusiveness. Welcoming people of all backgrounds is at the heart of Navy Pier’s core values. We are, truly, ‘the People’s Pier,’” said Marilynn Gardner, President and Chief Executive Officer for Navy Pier, Inc., the non-profit organization that operates Navy Pier. “We believe ‘Navy Pier Pride 2016’ will be an event that embraces the ideals of respect, tolerance, love, and inclusiveness.”
“Navy Pier Pride 2016” has been in the planning stages for months and is one of the initial projects as part of Navy Pier’s bold, new Arts & Discovery programming initiative. Leading the vision and direction of this 18-month Arts and Discovery strategic planning initiative is Navy Pier’s leadership team, consultants from Dickerson Global Advisors, as well as more than 100 Chicago non-profit arts and culture organizations. Navy Pier’s cultural and community programming is supported by the Polk Bros. Foundation.
Recently appointed Guest Artistic Director, Steve Abrams, brings creative leadership and vision to the first series of Arts and Discovery programs. The programs launch this summer as a pilot initiative. As a driving force in Chicago’s diverse cultural landscape for the last three decades, Abrams brings an innovative arts background to Navy Pier. His prior experience includes senior and executive leadership roles at Steppenwolf Theatre Company and the Harris Theater for Music and Dance at Millennium Park, and producing numerous theatrical productions.
For more details on “Navy Pier Pride 2016,” and the Fifth Third Bank Centennial Celebration®, please visit the Navy Pier website at www.navypier.com or the Navy Pier Facebook, Twitter and Instagram pages.
About Navy Pier
Located on Lake Michigan, Navy Pier is the top-attended leisure destination in the Midwest, stretching more than six city blocks and welcoming more than 9 million guests annually. Originally opened in 1916 as a shipping and recreation facility, this Chicago landmark showcases more than 50 acres of parks, restaurants, attractions, retail shops, sightseeing and dining cruise boats, exposition facilities and more. In 2016, Navy Pier celebrates its 100th anniversary with a series of special events and programming, the grand opening of its new Centennial Wheel and ongoing pier-wide redevelopment efforts as part of the “Fifth Third Bank Centennial Celebration.” Navy Pier, Inc., a 501(c)(3) not for profit organization, maintains and oversees Navy Pier and its redevelopment into a bolder, greener and more contemporary urban space. For more information, visit our website at www.navypier.com.
Rooftop Pride June 24th
Center on Halsted presents TKO!
Start your Pride Parade weekend with community for Center on Halsted’s annual pride bash overlooking Halsted Street on the Richard M. Daley Roof Terrace. Jump in and groove to the killer sound of our dueling djs:
DJ Billy Brown vs. DJ Gemini Jones
Lady Bunny PERFORMS & OFFICIATES
$20 entry includes admission with two drinks, nibbles, and cash bar
PRICE
$20 entry includes admission with two drinks, nibbles, and cash bar
FOR MORE INFORMATION
Purchase tickets here: https://community.centeronhalsted.org/TKO
Chicago PrideFest 2016 Jordin Sparks
IT’S OUR STORY | TAKE PRIDE
As the Northalsted Business Alliance prepares to welcome thousands of celebrants for Chicago Pride Fest on June 18-19, the organization marks the month by sharing Pride stories. Be it individual, collaborative community memories, or examples of neighborhood initiatives, NBA will share narratives across social media using the #OurStory hashtag.
Northalsted Business Alliance Executive Director Christopher Barrett Politan explains the initiative. “As our collaboration with The Legacy Project continues to take shape, it’s an honor to celebrate Pride Month with the LGBT trailblazers who adorn the neighborhood on The Legacy Walk. Most importantly, it is a reminder to take pride in not only our individual accomplishments, but our collective pride in the neighborhood and community.” Collective Pride is weaved throughout the festival as Pride Fest goers are encouraged to donate at the gates to support the neighborhood initiative to provide a clean, beautiful and safe space for everyone to celebrate.
A centerpiece of Pride Month is the two-day Chicago Pride Fest, which celebrates the past, present and future of the LGBT community. Entertainment options abound with Jordin Sparks lighting up the stage on Saturday, while former Danity Kane members Aubrey O’Day and Shannon Bex of the Dumblonde duo shake things up on Sunday. pridefestRising star Daya of ‘Hide Away’ fame joins Dumblonde in the Sunday line-up.
Other performers over the two-day festival include:
Boy Band Review, Chicago Gay Men’s Chorus, Chicago Spirit Brigade, Emii, Fabio Campos, Goldhouse, Jason Maek & Zaena, Lakeside Pride Orchestra, Luciana, My Gold Mask, One Night Band, Rod Tuff Curls, Sushi Roll and Wedding Banned.
In addition, the perennially popular Pride Pet & Family Parade at 12:30PM on Sunday Funday, hosted by Ms. Foozie will open the second day of the festival.
Chicago Pride Fest June 18-19 11 am – 10 pm
Halsted from Addison to Grace $10 Entry Donation
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, Frost Fest, Pride Prom and the Halloween Parade. For information about NBA and The Legacy Project visit www.northalsted.com
Help Chicago Homeless Start Over
From Alderman James Cappleman –
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I have worked hard to encourage the City of Chicago to adopt a housing first model to reduce the number of people living with homelessness after noticing its success in other parts of the country. This strategy works best when two components are in place: a sufficient amount of subsidized housing coupled with wrap-around services. The most difficult piece to this model is having a dedicated source of funding to make an investment for long-term cost savings. I’m working with Mayor Emanuel to have a steady stream of funds available so that we can remain focused on housing. Some of this funding will be through a 4% surcharge for a new Airbnb Ordinance and there will be some additional funding coming from the Clarendon-Montrose TIF development. Our pilot program to get 70 people living under the viaducts along Lake Shore Drive directly into housing is now underway. We have had a number of meetings with housing advocates, the folks living under the viaducts, city departments, and other community leaders to create a plan that will work. After all of these individuals without homes are in their new apartments, the Dept. of Family & Support Services (DFSS) will assess what worked well with this project and where improvements can be made. Afterwards, DFSS will select more areas throughout the city where people are living outside in encampments to implement this housing-first strategy.
How You Can HelpI’ve asked Inspiration Corporation to help me with a “New Home Starter Kit” drive. This starter kit will provide these 70 individuals going into new apartments with some of the needed supplies to start life in their new homes. To organize this process of purchasing this starter kit, my office has created a registry with Target. If you’re able to help, please click here to go to the registry and purchase needed items that will assist these individuals start their new life in an apartment. Inspiration Corporation will host a day at their Uptown headquarters where you will be invited to help put these starter kits together so that they can be distributed. A substantial number of people living on the streets have told me that they became homeless right after they were released from Cook County Jail with no employment or disability in place and no family available to help them start over again. Without these necessary supports in place, it’s no wonder why we have such a high recidivism rate in our prisons. Later this month, I will be meeting with Cook County Sheriff Dart’s Office, DFSS, and the Dept. of Public Health to discuss how a more effective transition could be made when people are released from jail. I am pleased that so much is coming together to help those in need. It’s a very complex process, but lasting solutions require thoughtful planning with everyone working together. Best,
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BEST Summer Vacation Rentals
Beaches, boats, lighthouses, quaint shops, a variety of restaurants, and exciting nightlife awaits you as you enjoy one of our beautiful waterfront condos…
Majestic Getaways offers premier condo rentals in major locations throughout the Midwest;
including Saugatuck and Douglas Michigan. 140 miles from Chicago, these Small towns = BIG Fun! Visit the twin cities of Saugatuck and Douglas Michigan for a welcoming, casual atmosphere that makes you feel like part of the community. Lots of LGBTQ folks from the Midwest flock here to get away from the bigger city life to enjoy the small town feel and great outdoors. Grassy dunes, white sand beaches and quaint streets of shopping make these harbor towns the perfect getaway.
St Joe Michigan. St. Joseph is carefully nestled on the southern tip of what has been termed “The Riviera of the Midwest.” This deepwater port town is a growing resort community – part of a “small town” chain stretching from the state line in a spectacular arc along Lake Michigan. The lakeshore is peppered with remarkable sand dune formations and lined further inland with a lush countryside that produces some of the nation’s finest orchards and vineyards. It is the largest non-citrus fruit growing region in the nation.
Located just 90 miles from downtown Chicago, St. Joseph is a quaint community situated within the larger Benton Harbor/St. Joseph MSA.
South Haven Michigan. One of Michigan’s featured Beachtowns, South Haven defines resorting on Lake Michigan’s eastern shore with majestic vistas and dazzling sunsets.You’ll feel this rich heritage as you gaze over our 100-year old lighthouse -a welcoming beacon in an often turbulent world.
Sandusky Ohio. Sandusky is midway between Toledo to the west and Cleveland to the east. Thrill seekers will have no trouble getting their kicks in Sandusky, home to the world-renowned Cedar Point Amusement Park, boasting 17 roller coasters, plentiful children’s attractions and carousels.
Outside the park, the city entices travelers with its sandy white Erie shores, stunning coastal trails, mysterious Seneca Caverns and numerous refreshing water parks. The downtown waterfront boasts historic architecture, charming boutiques and unparalleled views over Lake Erie.
and Chicago Illinois – Besides Pizza, hot dogs, skyscrapers and world class shopping, Chicago is also known for it’s waterfront. Spanning Over 30 miles of beaches and waterfront that offer the perfect settings for playing, relaxing and soaking it all in. An 18 mile bike path, kayak rentals, dinner cruise on Lake Michigan it’s all here! And you can rent a place Downtown Chicago located in the heart of the city, overlooking the Chicago River!
WATERFRONT VACATION RENTALS by MAJESTIC GETAWAYS offers premier condo rentals! Visit their website for more details and photos. Call them at (269) 349-7700!
Chicago Rising Star New Years Eve
This graphic is hard to see – but the Tines Square Ball is 12′ and the Chicago star will be 70′!!!!!
This year, Chicago is starting a new tradition to ring in the New Year
with the inaugural celebration Chi-Town Rising. Corona Extra is the Presenting Sponsor of Chi-Town Rising and Hyatt Gold Passport is the Official Host Sponsor.
At 70’ 6” feet tip-to-tip and ascending to 360 feet into the night sky to welcome in the New Year, the Rising Star is truly the star of the show. Located on the West Tower of Hyatt Regency Chicago, the Rising Star will overlook the TV audience zone on Broadcast Boulevard and the Corona Beach House across the Chicago River.
Bucking the trend in the vast majority of cities around the world, the Rising Star will ascend at midnight versus descend. “Chicago has always been ‘a city on the rise,’ and never more so than in the aftermath of the Great Fire of 1871 when the City rose from the ashes to become the fastest growing city in the world by the end of the 19th century,” said Arena Partners President John Murray, “A Rising Star is fitting for a populace that rises to meet challenges head-on, and it is aspirational – symbolic of looking forward to the opportunities that the New Year holds in store for us.”
The Rising Star is inspired by the second star on the city’s flag, which represents the Great Fire of 1871 and the city’s phoenix-like rise in its aftermath.
The Chicago flag has four six-pointed stars on the center white stripe each representing a significant event in the city’s history. From left to right on Chicago’s flag, the first star represents Fort Dearborn; the second, the Great Chicago Fire of 1871; the third, the World’s Columbian Exposition; and the fourth, the Century of Progress Exposition.
“Our city’s spirit inspired our choice to have an icon rise – not fall – on New Year’s Eve,” said John Murray. “Our city’s flag inspired our choice to use the Chicago Star as that icon; and these combined to inspire our choice of “Chi-Town Rising” as our name.”
The Rising Star, designed and built in Chicago by ONE618 and The Chicago Flyhouse Incorporated, is a thing of beauty. With a span of 70’6” tip-to-tip, it dwarfs icons used in cities around the world. It weighs 12,000 pounds, which is the equivalent of three pick-up trucks, and it has amazing lighting and video capabilities that will be revealed on New Year’s Eve.
How Chi-Town Rising’s Star compares to other cities’ New Year’s Eve icons
Approximately 34,000 pounds of steel make up the support structure; 24,000 pounds of steel I-beams are used on the front of Hyatt Regency Chicago, which act as guides for the Rising Star and the remaining 10,000 pounds of steel are on the roof of the building to support the cantilever. The structural steel portion of the Rising Star contains 900 bolts and the Rising Star itself contains over 250 bolts.
The Rising Star is comprised of over 2,600’ of 2” tube, which is close to half a mile of 2” tube. An additional 850’ of 1” tube is used in the assembly of the Rising Star. There are four control boxes, each containing 200 electrical terminations that will guide the motors to allow the Rising Star to ascend the building. Each of the four winch motors weighs nearly 1,000 pounds.
Chi-Town Rising will be broadcast live on NBC 5 and Telemundo Chicago for those wishing to view the event for free. Those interested in attending the event live have multiple options for securing a guaranteed spot, including purchasing tickets to the outdoor audience area, the Corona Beach House party, or other partner events nearby. Official Hotel Partners have packages available that include admission to the event as well. Chi-Town Rising is a privately-produced, ticketed event. At the present time, the city has not designated any formal public viewing areas for the Countdown, Rising Star, and fireworks.
To learn more about Chi-Town Rising and be kept up to date on talent information, please sign up for the Chi-Town Rising newsletter on www.Chi-TownRising.com. For ticket information or to book your New Year’s Eve stay, please visit www.Chi-TownRising.com, and join the conversation on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.
Shirtless Chicago Guy Spreads Prayer
A couple weeks ago Ethan Renoe, a hot shirtless jogger crashed a TV weather forecast in Chicago. During the rainy broadcast Renoe said, “It’s a great day for a run. Too wet to wear a shirt, you know?” He added, “I love running in the rain, and I’m also single!” – the video went Viral!
Renoe, an evangelical Christian, also made sure to get in a shout out to Jesus during the impromptu interview he did with WGN.
Now, NBC Chicago reports that Renoe, who attended a Christian Bible college and says he is a virgin who is saving himself for marriage, founded a ministry that has been offering “free prayers” outside gay bars in the city’s Boystown gayborhood for the last four years! – Damn, I keep missing him!
“My primary purpose of going there is to show this community love that has been severely damaged by those who claim to be Christians. That area has been hurt by people who claim Christ’s name.” – – Is it good? or bad? how do you feel about this?
One student member remarked that he understood the backlash the group sometimes receives while in the gay community:
“Some people come at us angrily, but I can understand that because that community is their stronghold and that’s where their identity lies and they feel like we’re attacking it, but that’s before they talk to us,” said student Andy Wood. “Regardless of lifestyle decisions we have the same opportunity to share the gospel and love people.”
Mario Lopez in Chicago Dec. 31
Chi-Town Rising, Chicago’s inaugural New Year’s Eve celebration Presented by Corona Extra and Hosted by Hyatt Gold Passport, today announces the celebrity talent set to host the New Year’s Eve broadcast both on NBC 5 Chicago and Telemundo Chicago. Mario Lopez will be the host talent for NBC 5 with Matt Iseman, Akbar Gbajabiamila, Courtney Lopez, and Marley Kayden as co-hosts. Penelope Menchaca and Maria Elena Ponticiello will be the host talent for Telemundo Chicago with Maricela Vázquez and Lily Fragoso as co-hosts. In addition to NBC 5 Chicago, Chi-Town Rising will air on over 40 NBC affiliates in the central United States. The program will also air nationally on COZI TV and in Spanish on TeleXitos.
The Chi-Town Rising live broadcast will be centered between Michigan Avenue & Columbus Drive, with the Chi-Town Rising Countdown Stage directly in front of the Hyatt Regency Chicago along Upper Wacker Drive. The broadcast will feature the musical performances of Billboard 2014 Top Artist American Authors and legendary rock band Chicago®, a dazzling midnight countdown with a 75-foot tall Chicago Star rising 360-feet into the night sky, and an epic fireworks display linking the event site with Navy Pier’s annual fireworks in one grand display synchronized to a musical soundtrack.
NBC 5 Chicago and Telemundo Chicago will broadcast the event live starting at 11:08 p.m. and Telemundo Chicago will begin at 11:00 p.m.
NBC 5 CHICAGO BROADCAST: 11:08 p.m., Thursday, Dec. 31, 2015
Puerto Vallarta Contest
The start of winter in Puerto Vallarta is cause for celebration as December marks the beginning of the whale watching season, traditional pilgrimages in honor of the Virgin of Guadalupe, free daily guided Artwalks in historic downtown, culinary treats all around town, the International Pro Am golf tournament, the release of baby sea turtles, perfect weather with temperatures in the low 80’s and a calendar full of holiday festivities and free activities.
The Puerto Vallarta Tourism Board is inviting everyone to join in the celebration with the launch of a mega “12 DAYS OF WINTER” (#12DaysOfWinter) promotion and participate for a chance to win daily prizes during the first 12 days of December, including artworks, bottles of tequila and raicilla and trip getaways, with the top prize being a 12-day all-expense paid vacation for two in Puerto Vallarta.
To participate register at visitpuertovallarta.com/12daysofwinter and tell the Puerto Vallarta Tourism Board what you would do on a 12-day all-expense paid holiday for two in the destination. All registrants will have a chance to win one of 12 prizes. Drawings will take place every day from December 1st to 12th. Following are the details of the prizes that will be awarded:
Winners of the getaway prizes to be awarded between December 5th through 12th will also receive a choice of 2 activities in Puerto Vallarta courtesy of Vallarta Adventures and Dolphin Discovery.
ENTER!
AIDS Walk Chicago 2015 Sept. 26th
Runners, walkers will put their feet down at AIDS Run & Walk Chicago on Saturday, Sept. 26
Thousands expected to gather at annual day of remembrance, fundraising and awareness
WHAT: Chicago-area residents will gather to change the HIV epidemic at the 14th annual AIDS Run & Walk Chicago on Saturday, Sept. 26. The event will start and finish at Soldier Field in Chicago, and courses for the 5k walk and the 5k/10k runs will stretch along Lake Michigan.
WGN-TV’s Dean Richards will be the master of ceremonies for the morning’s festivities, which will include brief speeches by AFC President/CEO John Peller and two longtime HIV advocates, Evany Turk and Patricia Johnson.
The opening ceremony will also include a performance from the Broadway musical RENT by Artists Giving Back, which is producing a production of “RENT” to benefit AFC on Dec. 1. Afterward, participants will warm up before their run or walk with Fitness Formula Club trainer Joy Miles.
Panels from the NAMES Project AIDS Memorial Quilt will also be on display, and free HIV testing will be available on site.
Funds raised through AIDS Run & Walk Chicago will benefit programs and services for the AIDS Foundation of Chicago and 35 other metropolitan organizations that provide life-saving services to people living with HIV and AIDS. Since it was established in 2001, AIDS Run & Walk Chicago has netted nearly $5 million to battle the epidemic.
For more information, visit aidsrunwalk.org or call 312-334-0946.
WHO: Media are invited to attend the event and speak with the AIDS Foundation of Chicago’s President/CEO, John Peller, as well as additional AIDS Foundation of Chicago representatives, event volunteers and race participants.
WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 26*
7:15 Registration and packet pickup open
8:00 Opening Ceremony begins
8:25 Warm-up stretch led by Joy Miles of Fitness Formula Clubs
8:45 10k run start
8:50 5k run start
9:05 Walk start
9:30 The NAMES Project AIDS Memorial Quilt display opens
10:00 Closing Ceremony begins
*Times are subject to change. Check aidsrunwalk.org for more details.
WHERE: Soldier Field (1410 Museum Campus Dr., Chicago, IL 60605)
*Media may park at Waldron Garage (600 E Waldron Dr., Chicago). Parking fees apply.
Chicago Green City Market Event
Chef Christopher Tong, of My Private Chef, will share his culinary
expertise as he presents a cooking demonstration featuring locally
produced seasonal ingredients offered by the Green City Market. The
demonstration is on Wednesday, August 26, 2015 at 10:30 a.m.
able to taste it on the spot.
between Clark and Stockton Drive (approximately 1750 N. Clark).
AIDS RUN WALK Chicago 2015
AIDS Run & Walk Chicago is AFC’s grassroots fundraising event where people from all walks of life help change the story of HIV in our lifetime.
As beneficiaries of the event, AFC and our CommunityDirect partners are greatly impacted – beyond just the obvious ways.
AIDS Run & Walk Chicago stands up to the stigma associated with HIV/AIDS allowing progress to continue toward ending the epidemic. Run & Walk invigorates the sector by increasing awareness for the cause, growing our passionate community and allowing new leaders to emerge.
In 2014, AIDS Run & Walk Chicago raised over $394,000 net to benefit the AIDS Foundation of Chicago.
Over and above that, we granted $240,000 to our CommunityDirect partners. These funds allow us to continue saving and improving the lives of those living with or at risk for HIV.
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Chicago AIDS Walk Sept. 26th
“Put your foot down.” That’s the message behind this year’s AIDS Run & Walk Chicago, hosted by the AIDS Foundation of Chicago (AFC) and benefiting 35 other community organizations — known as CommunityDirect partners — on Sept. 26 at Chicago’s Soldier Field.
“We want supporters to put their foot down and make a difference in this epidemic, especially among communities most impacted by HIV,” said AFC President/CEO John Peller. “At the biggest annual HIV awareness event in Chicago, we want to make it clear that new HIV infections can be a thing of the past if we put the right resources in the right places — including AFC and our 35 CommunityDirect partners.”
The 35 CommunityDirect partners that will raise funds through this year’s event will receive 90% of all money raised by their teams. Last year, the 32 CommunityDirect teams raised a combined $270,000.
The aim of the event — and the CommunityDirect program — is to support HIV/AIDS programs and services across Chicago, particularly in neighborhoods most affected by the epidemic.
“There are uncertain times ahead for many human services providers in Illinois,” said Simone Koehlinger, Senior Vice President of Programming. “AIDS Run & Walk Chicago brings funds and awareness to organizations having a significant impact on the HIV community — organizations that are making communities healthier and stronger.”
The CommunityDirect partners serving the South Side are Black Methodists for Church Renewal, COIP/UIC School of Public Health, Greater Full Gospel Pentecostal Church, Men & Women in Prison Ministries, Michael Reese Research & Education Foundation and the University of Chicago (Care2Prevent).
Those serving the North Side are Asian Human Services, Center on Halsted, Chicago House and Social Service Agency, Howard Brown Health Center and Test Positive Aware Network (TPAN).
CommunityDirect partners on the West Side include the Austin CBC Initiative, CALOR, Children’s Place Association, Erie Family Health Center, Mount Sinai Hospital, New Age Services, Project Vida, Puerto Rican Cultural Center (Vida/SIDA) and Taskforce Prevention and Community Services.
Organizations that provide citywide services are the AIDS Foundation of Chicago, AIDS Legal Council of Chicago, Alexian Brothers Housing and Health Alliance, Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Chicago, Chicago Black Gay Men’s Caucus, Chicago Recovery Alliance, Chicago Women’s AIDS Project, FCAN, Heartland Health Outreach, Illinois Caucus for Adolescent Health (ICAH), The Night Ministry, Pediatric AIDS Chicago Prevention Initiative, Ruth M. Rothstein CORE Center and Season of Concern.
And finally, AFC is proud to partner with organizations that serve people outside of Chicago: Canticle Ministries, Open Door Clinic and Youth Outlook.
Event registration is $40 in advance for 5k walkers and $50 for 5k or 10k runners. To register as an individual or as a team, or to donate to a CommunityDirect team, visit aidsrunwalk.org or call 312-334-0946. Online registration ends Sept. 20
Put your foot down to end new HIV infections
To give both AIDS Run & Walk Chicago participants and HIV advocates a way to express their demand for better support for HIV prevention and services, AFC is leading a social media campaign from now through Sept. 26 that invites people to “put their feet down” for the cause.
Participants are invited to print a template and write the reason they “put their foot down” to change the epidemic. They can then take a photo of the template with their foot, post to their social media platforms with the hashtag #aidsrunwalkchicago and share it with their communities. More information about the campaign and a link to the template can be found at aidsrunwalk.org.
Best Chicago Hotel Pools
We love the site THRILLIST! They are obsessed with everything that’s worth caring about in food, drink, and travel.
In a recent article, they visited 14 top hotel pools around Chicago to see which were easily diveable and which were just plain impenetrable. You would be surprised how easy it is to get into some of the pool areas for FREE!
