Monthly Archives: October 2010

  Uncategorized

Wild Pug in Uptown Chicago has Closed its Doors

Sadly,

we have lost the
 
Wild Pug in Uptown.

However, CREW is still

going strong at 

4804 N. Broadway!

Drinks, food and 20 HD TVs
to watch your favorite sport on!

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  Film, News and Happenings

REELING Gay and Lesbian Film Festival in Chicago November 4-13th

REELING 
Gay and Lesbian Film Festival
kicks off this week on November 4th running thru the 13th. It is is the second oldest film festival of its kind in the US, and prides itself on showcasing the best LGBT films and videos each and every year.

From award-winning international feature films to social documentaries to experimental shorts, Reeling has always presented a range of genres that demonstrate the rich diversity of work being produced. Not only has Reeling become one of the most important cultural events for Chicagoans, it also attracts LGBT people from throughout the Midwest who consider the festival to be the highlight of their cinematic year.
Reeling 2010 is presenting 54 programs over 10 days.

Film Schedule

Thursday, November 4, 2010

Opening Night! Children of God
Location: ShowPlace ICON
Time: 7:00 PM

Friday, November 5, 2010

The Stranger In Us
Location: Landmark’s Century Centre Cinema
Time: 7:00 PM

The Men in the Mirror
Location: Landmark’s Century Centre Cinema
Time: 7:15 PM

Elena Undone
Location: Landmark’s Century Centre Cinema
Time: 9:30 PM

Glitter & Guts
Location: Landmark’s Century Centre Cinema
Time: 9:45 PM

Saturday, November 6, 2010

Gen Silent
Location: Landmark’s Century Centre Cinema
Time: 12:00 PM

Grown Up Movie Star
Location: Landmark’s Century Centre Cinema
Time: 12:15 PM

Lost in the Crowd
Location: Landmark’s Century Centre Cinema
Time: 1:45 PM

Role/Play
Location: Landmark’s Century Centre Cinema
Time: 2:30 PM

Over the Moon, Also Showing “Hens and Chicks”
Location: Landmark’s Century Centre Cinema
Time: 3:30 PM

JoJo Baby
Location: Landmark’s Century Centre Cinema
Time: 5:00 PM

Kill the Habit
Location: Landmark’s Century Centre Cinema
Time: 5:15 PM

I Killed My Mother (J’ai Tué Ma Mere)
Location: Landmark’s Century Centre Cinema
Time: 7:15 PM

The Four-Faced Liar
Location: Landmark’s Century Centre Cinema
Time: 7:30 PM

Amphetamine
Location: Landmark’s Century Centre Cinema
Time: 9:15 PM

Eloïse’s Lover
Location: Landmark’s Century Centre Cinema
Time: 9:30 PM

Sunday, November 7, 2010

The Secret Diaries of Miss Anne Lister
Location: Landmark’s Century Centre Cinema
Time: 1:00 PM

Love is a Battlefield
Location: Landmark’s Century Centre Cinema
Time: 1:15 PM

The String (Le Fil)
Location: Landmark’s Century Centre Cinema
Time: 3:00 PM

Mother Earth (Tierra Madre), Also Showing “NU2”
Location: Landmark’s Century Centre Cinema
Time: 3:15 PM

Is It Just Me?
Location: Landmark’s Century Centre Cinema
Time: 5:15 PM

Young & Sapphic
Location: Landmark’s Century Centre Cinema
Time: 5:30 PM

Strapped
Location: Landmark’s Century Centre Cinema
Time: 7:15 PM

Fighting for “I Do”
Location: Landmark’s Century Centre Cinema
Time: 7:30 PM

Violet Tendencies
Location: Landmark’s Century Centre Cinema
Time: 9:15 PM

Bloomington
Location: Landmark’s Century Centre Cinema
Time: 9:30 PM

Monday, November 8, 2010

The Adults in the Room
Location: Landmark’s Century Centre Cinema
Time: 7:00 PM

Her Beautiful Disaster
Location: Landmark’s Century Centre Cinema
Time: 7:15 PM

From Beginning to End (Do Começo ao Fim)
Location: Landmark’s Century Centre Cinema
Time: 9:00 PM

Goodbye My Lover
Location: Landmark’s Century Centre Cinema
Time: 9:15 PM

Tuesday, November 9, 2010

A Marine Story
Centerpiece Film!
Location: Landmark’s Century Centre Cinema
Time: 7:00 PM

Rock Hudson: Dark and Handsome Stranger
Location: Landmark’s Century Centre Cinema
Time: 7:15 PM

Fantasy Man
Location: Landmark’s Century Centre Cinema
Time: 9:15 PM

Handsome Harry
Location: Landmark’s Century Centre Cinema
Time: 9:30 PM

Wednesday, November 10, 2010

Going South (Plein Sud)
Location: Landmark’s Century Centre Cinema
Time: 7:00 PM

The Fish Child (El Niño Pez)
Location: Landmark’s Century Centre Cinema
Time: 7:15 PM

I Love You Phillip Morris
Centerpiece Film!
Location: Landmark’s Century Centre Cinema
Time: 9:00 PM

Eyes Wide Open (Einayim Petukhoth)
Location: Landmark’s Century Centre Cinema
Time: 9:15 PM

Thursday, November 11, 2010

Flight of the Cardinal
Centerpiece Film!
Location: Landmark’s Century Centre Cinema
Time: 7:00 PM

You Will Be Mine (Je Te Mangerais)
Location: Landmark’s Century Centre Cinema
Time: 7:15 PM

Dearest Mother (Madre Amadísima)
Location: Landmark’s Century Centre Cinema
Time: 9:15 PM

Leading Ladies
Location: Landmark’s Century Centre Cinema
Time: 9:30 PM

Friday, November 12, 2010

The Last Summer of La Boyita (El Último Verano de la Boyita)
Location: Instituto Cervantes
Time: 6:00 PM

Other Nature (Tritiya Prakriti), Also Showing “Nobody Passes Perfectly”
Location: Chicago Filmmakers
Time: 7:00 PM

Plan B
Location: Instituto Cervantes
Time: 9:00 PM

Fit
Location: Chicago Filmmakers
Time: 9:15 PM

Saturday, November 13, 2010

Our Gender Identities
Location: Film Row Cinema – Columbia College Chicago
Time: 12:00 PM

Destination: Unknown
Location: Film Row Cinema – Columbia College Chicago
Time: 1:45 PM

The Topp Twins: Untouchable Girls
Location: Film Row Cinema – Columbia College Chicago
Time: 3:30 PM

Holding Hands
Location: Chicago Filmmakers
Time: 3:30 PM

The Game of Juan’s Life (Ang Laro Ng Buhay Ni Juan)
Location: Film Row Cinema – Columbia College Chicago
Time: 5:15 PM

Across Lesbian Borders
Location: Chicago Filmmakers
Time: 5:15 PM

The Owls, Also Showing “Chained!”
Location: Film Row Cinema – Columbia College Chicago
Time: 6:45 PM

Closing Night! Undertow (Contracorriente)
Location: Instituto Cervantes
Time: 7:00 PM

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  News and Happenings, Theater in Chicago

Execution of Justice THIS WEEKEND at Roosevelt University’s O’Malley Theatre

The 1978 murders
of San Francisco Mayor George Moscone
 and Supervisor Harvey Milk,
the first openly gay elected official in America, shocked the nation—and the subsequent trial of the accused killer, fellow Supervisor Dan White, exposed a community in the throes of divisive conflict. In Execution of Justice, playwright Emily Mann reinvestigates the trial and its explosive outcome, bringing to dramatic life the questions of class, morality, and social acceptance which lay at the heart of one of the century’s most notorious crimes.

In the play the trial itself is on trial in the court of theater and is found guilty of a miscarriage of justice parallelling the actual case which resulted in White being convicted of a lesser charge of voluntary manslaughter, rather than two counts of first-degree murder, and sentenced to less than eight years. The play references the urban legend  that White’s defense strategy was primarily the so-called “Twinkie defense” — painting his junk food consumption as a significant or even in some versions the sole cause of his actions.

The highly emotional play combines live stage action, videos, taped voices and music including a video camera on stage projecting its image onto large screens throughout the performance which uses the drag nun Sister Boom Boom, an AIDS activist,  as a voice of consciousness representing human rights for all marginalized groups, not just gays.

Directed by Goodman Theatre Associate Producer Steve Scott, Execution of Justice will play at Roosevelt University’s O’Malley Theatre (430 S. Michigan Avenue)  on Friday, October 29 and Saturday, October 30 at 7:30 PM, and Sunday, October 31 at 2:00 PM.

For tickets, call the Roosevelt Theatre box office at (312) 341-3831.

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  Film, FREE

Free Movie Tickets for I Love You Phillip Morris


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  Boystown, Celebrity, Gay Bars, News and Happenings

Gay Pimp Jonny McGovern Appears At Roscoes With Julie Goldman

You  know him from SOCCER PRACTICE ! 

You know him from Gay Pimpin  Podcast !

You know him from the Logo and Rosie O’Donnell show
Big Gay Sketch Comedy Show !

Writer/Performer Jonny McGovern is probably best known as a cast member on “The Big Gay Sketch Show” produced by Rosie O’Donnell and for his hilarious music videos including “Soccer Practice” and “Somethin’ for the Fellas (That like the Fellas)” which have played on MTV, VH-1 and LOGO. He was also the host of iTunes’ #1 LGBT podcast “Gay Pimpin’ with Jonny McGovern” which reached 15,000 listeners weekly. –  and you can listen to it.

If David Beckham and Rip Torn had a love child, his name would be Jonny McGovern. Also known as the Gay Pimp  , this in-your-face comedian is quickly taking the world by storm. From comedy and music to television and night life, there seems to be no realm McGovern hasn’t conquered.

Gay pop superstar, TV personality, and nightlife legend, “Gay Pimp” Jonny McGovern blazed onto the New York scene in 2000 with his satirical mix of his character comedy and dirty gay hits  and his fire continues to burn bright. 

These days he is more known for his comedy.  Jonny will be in Chicago October 28th at Roscoes!  Along with one of his partners in crime, Julie Goldman !  Julie is a comedian, actress, and musician.  She is ethnically Jewish, and an open lesbian.
 
Jonny recently moved to Los Angeles, with Julie, and is re-launching the very popular podcast he was doing!

You don’t want to miss this rare Chicago appearance by these 2 talented peeps!

See you at Roscoes
3356 N. Halsted
Thursday Oct. 28th   @    9pm.
Tickets  ONLY $5  in advance – $10 at the door.

Best Gay Chicago

 

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  Gay Bars, News and Happenings, Special Events

Best Gay Bar Outside of Boystown and Best Mens Underwear in Chicago host Project Runway Finale

 CREW Bar
in Uptown (4804 N. Broadway) 
will host a PROJECT RUNWAY
 Grand Finale party and
underwear fashion show!
Thursday Oct. 28th

Do you think you know who will win Project Runway this year? You pick the winner and CREW will buy you a drink! 

The show starts at 8pm –  I would get there a little early, if I was you.  $3  pints  all night 

PLUS, following the finale,  EGOIST UNDERWEAR  will put on a fashion show. EGOIST is new to Chicago and provides Mens premium underwear & clothes. Andrew Christian, Cocksox, Baskit, Gigo, XTG, N2N, Pistol Pete, Joe Snyder, Obviously, Ajaxx63, Ginch Gonch, Gia, Good Devil, Frank Dandy, Man Zone, Pipe, Intymen and MORE.

CREW BAR   4804 N. Broadway
EGOIST    3706 N. Halsted

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  Chicago Information, Political

Pat Quinn Trailing Bill Brady in the Polls

 GLEE inspired campaign!  Pat Quinn has a clever idea  to capture the attention of voters!  Recent polls  show Quinn is behind in the polls against Republican (and anti-gay)  Bill  Brady .

From receiving an “F” for his voting record on minority rights, to multiple attempts to restrict rights for LGBT Illinoisans, it’s clear that Senator Brady wants to “return Illinois and America to John Wayne’s America.”

Brady has sponsored or co-sponsored a disturbing number of anti-LGBT bills in Springfield – from a constitutional ban on civil unions to gutting the Illinois Human Rights Act.

PLEASE  GET OUT AND VOTE!  VOTE  PAT  QUINN  FOR GOVERNOR!

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  Boystown, Cabaret, Recommended, Restaurants and Dining

One of the Best Brunches in Boystown Chicago – with Live Entertainment

 Where else can you have
Brunch on a Sunday afternoon in
Chicago AND get treated to
live vocal stylings and
top-notch entertainment?! 

The Madam X Brunch on Sundays at KIT KAT LOUNGE will WOW YOU! Often voted  Best Martini Bar in Chicago and Best Entertainment, the creative team behind the Kit Kat Lounge  re-launched their Sunday Brunch earlier this year, with the help of Kit Kat veteran  Madam X.

“We used to do brunch a long time ago and stopped. But  this past summer, Edward and Ramesh decided to bring brunch back and I host every Sunday!  It’s  a  DIVA-LICIOUS Brunch,  Sundays 11am-3pm. !”

You can choose the 2-course $25  gourmet  brunch which includes free flowing Bloody Marys and Mimosa’s or Select a delicious Big Brunch item and get unlimited Bloody Marys or Mimosa’s for just $10 more.  PLUS, martini’s are half-off.

Everything here is BIG – so come hungry!  Big Fat Greek Wedding  ($12) is an Omelette with feta cheese, spinach and grilled chicken.  Big Daddy ($12) is  Eggs Florentine topped with smoked ham and a spicy bernaise sauce. My favorite is  BIG  BUSINESS!  ($18)  Butter poached Maine Lobster with fresh avocado and Applewood smoked bacon!  YUM!  See the whole menu online .  

YOUR HOSTESS  Madam X is a critically acclaimed entertainer based in Chicago and has been a Kit Kat Diva since 2000. Known for her dazzling costumes, she has graced numerous entertainment venues showcasing her live vocal stylings of past and present female icons with her own special twist.

“I was 6 years old when I first sang in public.” says  Madam X. “I was born in the Philippines and performed in a church full of Methodists! I ended up moving to Iowa and went to school there. During college, I came to Chicago and studied the city, for one of my classes. I always  liked it here, but never thought I would end up living here.”

“I love it here. I love Chicago and I love the Kit Kat Lounge. We are a family here. I support them and they support me, and all that I do!  I am so excited to be hosting the Diva-Licious Brunch again!”

For HALLOWEEN , Sunday October 31st, Madam X and the Kit Kat Lounge serve up a special Rocky Horror Brunch from 11am-3pm!

Kit Kat Lounge    3700 N. Halsted   Chicago  773-525-1111

BEST GAY CHICAGO

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  Uncategorized

Chicago’s Final Full Moon Fire Jam of the Season Sunday Oct. 24th

 

The Full Moon Fire Jam
 is a FREE event that happens every Full Moon during the summer months in Chicago. Started in 2004 by a group of friends celebrating a birthday, the jams have grown in size to accommodate the increasing amount of drummers, fire spinners and families that come to enjoy.

Fire & Ultraviolet (UV) Performances – We specialize in fully-immersive Fire and Ultraviolet (UV) kinetic performances. We continue to evolve our craft with an ever-increasing repertoire of fire and ultraviolet-based tools, weapons, and performance pieces, including, but not limited to:

* Poi, Staff & Double Staff
* Meteor
* Rope Dart, Fire Juggling
* Fire Hoop, Fire Fans
* Fire Eating and Bodywork
* Scimtars / Swords / Knives
* Snakes / Bones
* UV Flags
* Special effects like immersive fire ropes, torches, and lanterns
 

FINAL  ONE OF THE YEAR – Sunday October 24th . Rain or Shine. The location is the usual place about a half mile south of Foster Beach between Foster and Lawrence on the west side of the parking lot on the lakefront. SUNSET is 6:00PM  Jams and show should start about 7pm. 

C’mon down to the Chicago Lakefront for this Full Moon Fire Jam  performance!

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  Benefits, Music, Theater in Chicago

Disney’s The Lion King and Billy Elliot will join together to present City of Hope: Chicago Cares October 25

For one night only,
the talented cast and crew of Disney’s The Lion King and Billy Elliot will join together to present City of Hope: Chicago Cares-a concert featuring song, dance, and spoken word.

Audience members will enjoy performances by the casts of The Lion King and Billy Elliot featuring classics, pop, R&B, and Broadway. A silent auction will also include theater tickets, restaurant packages, and “one-of-kind props” from The Lion King.

When: Monday, October 25th

Time: 7:00 PM

Where: The Royal George Theatre,
1541 N. Halstead St.

Tickets:

$40 General Admission

$75 VIP (includes post show reception, meet & greet with cast, desserts, and complimentary cocktails by Grey Goose Vodka)

 TICKETS ONLINE NOW

All proceeds benefit Chicago House and Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS (BC/EFA )

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  Boystown, Gay Bars, Restaurants and Dining

D.S. Tequila Company – A Tex-and-Mex bar and eatery from the owners of Minibar, in Boystown Chicago

D.S. Tequila Company  is the home of D.S. Company brand tequila.  This flagship store-resturant-bar in Chicago at 3352 N. Halsted,  is the first location of its kind to incorporate retail tequila with a full dining and party experience.

Delicious burgers, tacos and D.S. Company tequilas are the real deal.  The burgers are made with a half pound of Allen Bros. 100% Prime Beef.  Allen Bros supply other top restaurants like Gene & Georgetti and Lawry’s.  Choose from the Classic Burger with applewood smoked bacon, white cheddar and tequila grilled tomotoes or maybe the Buffalo Blue Cheese with jalapeno bacon, blue cheese, guacamole and a special DS Tequila original buffalo tomotoe sauce.

The  tortillas are made fresh, by hand, daily in their kitchen.  Tasty tacos include Crispy Fried Chicken (for those NOT watching their weight!), Tequila Grilled Shrimp and my favorite, BBQ Pulled Pork. Margaritas are made with 100% Agave Tequila and real lime juice with no added sugars. 

 There are also some starters worth mentioning. Fresh Guacamole, Loaded Fries, and the knock your socks off XXX Jalapeno Poppers!  If you save any room for desert, they offer a S’Mores Sunday and delicious cupcakes like Tres Leches and Ancho Chocolate Brownie.  Prices here are reasonable.  Burgers are $8.49. Tacos are $2.69.

More about their signature tequila…

D.S. Tequila is serious tequila.  Unlike some of the other “premium” tequila producers, their  Weber Blue Agave plants are grown for eight years with no artificial accelerants to speed their production.  The sugars from blue agave plants that are allowed to develop naturally.  This produces a taste so smooth and rich, you won’t believe its tequila.

 

D.S. Company Tequila should hit store shelves in about 6 months.  For the time being, they  have selected Don Modesto, their sister brand of tequila, to carry at their retail store/bar & restaurant.  Don Modesto grows within the same plantation as D.S. Company tequila.  Both products are  100% organic.  With a taste profile similar to D.S. Company tequila,  Don Modesto is the best representation of their product to carry at D.S. Tequila Company.  Read more about their Tequilas online .

 
DS TEQUILA   

M-TH: 5PM-2AM | F: 12PM-2AM | SA: 12PM-3AM | SU: 12PM-3AM      ph 773-697-9127 (Call in for take-out)

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  Chicago Information, Outdoors, Recommended

Absolutely The Best Segway Tours in Chicago!

This past weekend I had the pleasure of going on my first Segway Tour. Absolutely Chicago Segway Tours  had been highly recommended to me, so that is who we chose. And it was  a great tour and experience!

The owners of the company have over 50 years of combined experience in the hospitality industry, having owned and operated some of the most successful, recognized and reputable restaurants and companies in the Chicagoland area. When starting Absolutely Chicago Segway Tours it was clear that they wanted to create that same memorable service, and to leave visitors with a wonderful impression of Chicago.

The Segway itself is only one part of the total touring experience. “We believe that your tour guide will have the biggest impact on your experience. At the risk of bragging, we have the best guides in the business, bar none. That’s because we only hire the best. They have undergone extensive Segway certification training. They have to be professional, courteous, and articulate. So whether the group is comprised of teens, grandmas, or corporate execs, our guides can connect with everyone.” says owner Timmie McGuire Cortina.

They offer several different tours and those can change with the season, and the weather. We took the 8 mile / 2 hour Museum Campus tour. Before you can go on a tour, you have to watch a short safety film, then there is a short “class” learning session. Many people think you jump and go, and control your speed and braking with your hands and handlebar. This is not true.

Riding the Segway  feels like nothing you’ve ever experienced because there’s never been anything like it. Step on and your instinct will be to steady yourself, as you would on anything with two wheels. But almost immediately you’ll realize that the Segway  is balancing for you, almost like it has become an extension of you. Just lean forward a little and you’ll see that the Segway  isn’t moving you on its own; it’s moving in response to you and what you tell it to do. It all feels natural and really cool.

The Segway  uses LeanSteer™ Technology to move you from Point A to B. Gently move the LeanSteer frame and handlebar left or right in the direction you want to travel and feel the machine respond almost instantly.

The Segway  balances by using five micro-machined angular rate sensors and two accelerometers that sense the changing terrain and your body position at 100 times per second.

For HALLOWEEN  SEASON: There is the  Chicago Haunted Tour!  The first of its kind in Chicago. “Our Guides will be your ghost hunters on this guided segway tour. They will escort you to the most mysteriously haunted locations in Downtown Chicago while relating the stories of Chicago’s Haunted Hotels, houses, ghosts, murders, and gruesome disasters. Eerily we will creep through the shadows and darkness of the park to the sites that have claimed the lives of many tortured souls, places where paranormal experiences have been shared, where lingering spirits have appeared in the air.

This extraordinary Chicago Ghost Tour will visit the sites of Haunted Fort Dearborn, the Iroquois Theatre disaster, the Morgue on State, the Dead Alley, and the past home of Al Capone’s haunted yacht. Some say that the sounds of screaming can still be heard. We have more haunted places and stories to share, so come along and glide with us … if you dare!”

HAUNTED  DISCOUNT!  Get a group together of 4 or more for the 9:15 Wednesdays or Thursdays Haunted Tours and each person gets a $10 discount!   or  Get a  $5  discount on Friday or Saturday tours IF YOU MENTION THIS ARTICLE !

Most tours are about $60-$65 – and well worth it! Explore Chicago by day or night on this picturesque Lakefront tour of Chi-Town. We travel along fragrant garden paths while viewing the famous Chicago attractions of Grant and Millennium Parks, Soldier Field, Buckingham Fountain, and the Museum Campus. Our evening tours provide views of Chicago’s fabulous skyline at dusk.

Absolutely Chicago Segways  is located right near Millenium Park at 337 E. Randolph.
If you drive downtown and tour with them, you can park with them for $10 for the day.
Call 312-552-5100 to make your reservations
Tell them Best Gay Chicago.com  sent you!

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  Celebrity

Warren Blosjo Kole from NOMADS – New CW TV Show

HAVE YOU SEEN
      THIS MAJOR HOTTIE?!

I happened to run into this guy today!  Warren Blosjo aka Warren Kole is in Chicago filming a new show for the CW network called NOMADS.

I thought he looked familiar. I had seen him on “24″ and also “Mental“. 

Nomads  is about a group of nearly broke young backpackers – including Scott Porter and Luke Ford  (two more  hotties!)  – traveling the world, who agree to earn money by working secret missions for the CIA. Michaela McManus (Law & Order: Special Victims Unit) has also been cast in this pilot.

The show has  a blog set up  and also Twittering, if you want to check in. 

Warren  was last seen at North and Clyburn!

Be on the lookout for this hot rising star.

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  Boystown, Hotels

Fall Holidays and Winter Fun in Gay Chicago – Best Hotels to Stay At



FALL is upon us and the holiday season is right around the corner!  Boystown, Lakeview and North Halsted areas all have lots going on, PLUS there are 3 great choices to pick for accommodations, that are conveniently located near everything.!
City Suites , The Majestic  and the The Willows .

The historic City Suites Hotel in Chicago offers the upscale traveler an unmatched degree of service with upgraded premier amenities to compliment its beautiful Art Deco interior. Accenting the architecture details of this 1920’s “Roaring Twenties” gem, the City Suites Hotel exudes a sleek Art Deco architecture style, inviting ambiance and striking visual detail. The hotel exudes a sleek Art Deco architecture style, inviting ambiance and striking visual detail.



The Majestic Hotel often leaves behind an enduring impression on many guests and visitors. Built in the style of an English Manor Estate, this breathtaking boutique hotel combines the majestic allure of a Victorian boutique hotel with a welcoming ambiance. The luxurious Majestic Hotel in Chicago is set in the picturesque and famous Chicago neighborhood of Lakeview and Wrigley Ville just minutes away from downtown and a block from the scenic Lake Michigan.



Inspired by 19th century French Victorian décor, the Willows Hotel in Chicago is the epitome of modern day elegance. Built during Chicago’s “Roaring Twenties”, a rich historical past surrounds the Willows Hotel located in Chicago’s most exclusive and famed Lakeview and Lincoln Park neighborhood area. In 2005, the Willows Hotel was officially recognized as a historic Chicago landmark building.



OCTOBER if full of fun and excitement as Halloween approaches. Kicking off October 17 and running thru October 31st, there are lots of Halloween  events in Boystown . And you want to definately stay right here in the heart of all the action!

NOVEMBER  a chill is in the air, the leaves are off the trees, and Chicago gears up for the upcoming holiday season. THANKSGIVING is the kick off of the holiday shopping season, but many locals  and tourists start their shopping earlier, as merchants start displaying all of their offerings earlier. Who wants to wait to the last minute and get stuck with limited selections? If you are in town for Thanksgiving, make your reservations early! All the best spots fill up quickly, as many people dine out this day. Christmas Around the World starts the 19th at the Museum of Science and Industry and the official lighting and holiday parade  downtown is November 20. And of course, there is also a Thanksgiving Day Parade downtown.



DECEMBER of course, the whole month is a peak time – full of shoppers and holidays parties, and holiday walks. Christkindlmarket  is in full swing downtown, Michigan Avenue bustles with shoppers, and the Lincoln Park Zoo Lights  are on every evening. North Halsted and Boystown and Lakeview are full of retail sales and specials and there are lots of holiday events which will posted on Best Gay Chicago , as December gets closer. But every weekend is a busy weekend in December. On the 11th is Northalsted Naughty Elves Pub Crawl, and there will be many more events announced soon!

The City Inns Collection of Hotels pride themselves on their personalized care, premier service and exceeding the needs of their discriminating leisure and business travelers. The staff is passionate here and  ensure an enjoyable and memorable stay – something you don’t often see in the big hotels downtown. These properties boast a welcoming “neighborhood” charm yet with all the services and amenities of a full-service hotel. Many packages are available depending on your interests.

BOOK TODAY FOR YOUR HOLIDAY IN CHICAGO
City Suites , The Majestic  and the The Willows .


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  Celebrity, Comedy

Josh Wolf and Chris Franjola – 2 Straight Guys Work Their Comedy at ZANIES Chicago October 15-17

Comics JOSH WOLF and CHRIS FRANJOLA flex their metrosexual muscles for 3 nights of comedy in Chicago at Zanies October 15-17.

Both these guys are straight; allegedly! (Not that there is anything wrong with that…) No really they are! On Josh’s MySpace page , it says so. It also says he is 103 years old. I’m just sayin….

Josh Wolf,  with his trademark backwards baseball cap and quick wit, is always a welcome sight on the round table on the Chelsea Lately show  on E!

When he’s not appearing in his weekly spot on Chelsea Lately, he’s filming his top rated web series “College Experiment ” for foxsports.com. (It’s sort of a Talk Soup of the Sports News World).  Josh Wolf’s unique, honest and high energy style of storytelling has made him a favorite at comedy clubs across the country.

Josh first got on stage when he was 15 years-old.  His parents had to drive him to the show at which he was told by a “veteran” comic to “talk about what you know”.  Since the only thing he knew was his family, Josh proceeded to do his entire set about how bad his parents’ gas was.  The combination of the crowd’s laughter and parents’ humiliation was enough to hook Josh for life.

He currently is writing a feature film for Adam Sandler’s company.  You can also see Josh on the road most weekends either opening for Chelsea Handler or Larry the Cable Guy , with the Comedians of Chelsea Lately or at comedy clubs across the country.

 

 In a recent interview Josh was asked..Last year Chelsea Lately did a shirtless round table and if you didn’t know you had a gay following, you probably did after that!

JW:  I heard a rumor!  You know, when we did that I wasn’t sure…you know, they asked me to do it and I was like ‘Oh, boy…”  And the funny thing is they said they wanted me to leave my hat on and they’re going to tape the mic right to my chest so it’s going to be funny.  So, as long as we’re going for funny and ridiculous, I’m in.  I got a few shirtless autograph pic requests.  My response was always, ‘Do you really think I have a shirtless picture of myself?  I don’t have a stack of them anywhere.’

I think that’s how we know you’re straight because if you were gay you’d be handing them out to everyone.

JW:  [laughs]  Did you see the picture of Guy [Branum] holding me in Mexico?  I think I get more comments from that than for anything else.

 I talked to Guy recently and he said about you, and I quote, ‘that torso is ridiculous.’  Has he been as vocal to you about his appreciation for your attributes?

JW:  He told me a couple weeks ago, ‘I get jealous when you’re doing the panel and I feel like you’re flirting with other gay men.’  I said, ‘Guy, you know you’re the only guy for me.’  And he said, ‘I want to let you know as long as you can continue to have the definition of your torso that you’re the guy for me.’  [laughs]

 

In town performing with Josh, is another Chelsea Lately regular, Chris Franjola. Chris needs a good PR agent, I think!  (We’ll discuss this Chris, when we see you next month!) There is very little information about him online!

Chris Franjola is a writer-comedian from Long Island, New York. Chris has been living and working in Los Angeles for the past 12 years in that time he has written on several shows including Family Guy and the original Chelsea Handler Show on E!. Chris is currently a writer and regular performer on Chelsea Lately and he is very excited about being a part of The Comedians of Chelsea Lately tour. Chris also feels weird about writing this bio in the third person.

But seriously, he is a very nice guy. We had the pleasure of meeting him last fall in Atlantic City for the Out in the AC Gay Weekend . He and the totally gay Guy Branum were in town for the 3 day LGBT event.

We asked Chris about the infamous  “Topless Roundtables” on Chelsea.
 
Are there any lines you wouldn’t cross for a laugh?

CF: Umm … yes, I don’t know what they are yet, but I’m sure I’ll know when they’re asked of me. I’ll never do a pantless roundtable … it’s just too cold in the studio!”

JOSH  WOLF and CHRIS FRANJOLA at ZANIES  in Chicago for  6  shows, October 15-17.
Tickets are on sale now online!  Get them while they last!
All 6 shows are expected to sell out!     $25 plus a 2 drink minimum. 

Josh Wolf website          Josh Wolf  Facebook           Chris Franjola Facebook

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  Boystown, Gay Bars, Recommended, Restaurants and Dining

Cocktail and the gardens Bring More Swank to Boystown and Halsted

 The recently rehabbed Cocktail
is the original swanky chill lounge of Halsted in Boystown. It is one of the most inviting  bars in Lakeview, appealing to a broad-based clientele that is short on attitude and long on fun. 

Its two attractive bars (cocktail & new garden bar) feature chic black crystal chandeliers, gorgeous onyx-lit bar tops (imported from Greece) and a swank sidewalk café, known as the gardens. Cocktail is the perfect place to sip libations, enjoy great food and converse with friends, both old and new. –  Plus, new room is great for private parties!

The city dragged their feet in signing off on final approval and permits. So unless we get an Indian Summer, you’ll have to wait to enjoy the gardens @ cocktail…a lush  1,192 square foot sidewalk cafe is a breathtaking addition to the corner of Halsted and Roscoe.

the gardens will be open Sunday-Thursday 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. (weather permitting) until  November 1st 2010, and will re-open in the spring of 2011. 

The gardens are lined with lush green box hedge, with Jasper Morrison “Air Chair” furnishings from Italy, and plenty of golden shaded seating under the posh cover of our distinctive Vueve Cliquot umbrellas. It feels like a swank New York hotspot!


FOOD, FOOD, FOOD!  ALWAYS AVAILABLE!

Cocktail serves up their new menu with all the style you’ve come to expect! The new expansion brings a whole new Cocktail, now serving brunch from 11a-4p daily, and the  full menu daily till 10pm.

Erin Baker is the food director and events coordinator. I HIGHLY recommend the Artichoke Terrine! Very Delicious! And for brunch I have tried the Breakfast Tacos and the Benedict. Bot very good. The table next to me was eating BBQ Chicken wrap and gave it high props.

When the lights go down, the scene gets a bit more lively thanks in large part to a stage area that hosts the “Spank Go Go Boys” five nights a week.

Dubbed the “home of house music on Halsted Street”, Cocktail boasts an impressive line-up of resident DJs that includes Michael Serafini, Tracy Tobey, Freddie Bain, Carla Starla, Timmy Loop, DJ Dhanna, Miss Michaela, and Pete Augusta.

Coming soon, Psycho Bitch and Heather Doble. Mixing the latest dance grooves from Chicago and around the world as well as presenting some of the hottest dancers in the city, Cocktail consistently serves up a fun atmosphere with an amazingly diverse crowd.

Whether you want a Pink Pussy or a Salty Dog – this is the spot to check out. Delicious music, go-go boys, and now food!

Cocktail Bar Chicago

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  Community, FREE, News and Happenings

Candlelight Vigil in Remembrance of Gay Teen Suicides October 8th

A collective of grassroots organizations in Chicago have joined
together to hold a community-wide candlelight vigil honoring nine LGBTQ teens that committed suicide due to homophobic bullying. The vigil will be held on Friday, October 8, 2010, at 7:30 PM on DePaul University’s quad near the corner of Fullerton and Seminary, in Chicago’s Lincoln Park neighborhood.

“After the recent suicide of Tyler Clementi,” said DePaul University sophomore and event co-organizer Jeremy Kauffman, “I felt compelled to do something that would raise awareness of this crisis.” Over the past several months, a number of homophobia-induced suicides have come to national attention, including the deaths of children as young as thirteen and as old as nineteen.

The organizers believe these senseless deaths did not occur in a vacuum, but rather in a society that lacks respect for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ) people and their right to dignity and equality. This vigil is being held in the hopes that both the LGBTQ and straight communities will come together to remember those lost, to provide support for the living, and to inspire hope and action for the future.
 
“LGBTQ teens are four times more likely to commit suicide than their straight counterparts,” stated Anthony Martinez of LGBT Change. “With the outrageous number of deaths this past month it has become very clear that as a community we cannot wait to take action.  We must stand together and work harder to address bullying and homophobia in schools. In September alone we lost eight teens. It is truly horrifying“
 
Organizers request that those attending bring a candle and lighter if they have one. There will also be an opportunity to leave behind something for those we are remembering. “We want to allow people to offer something in the remembrance of these kids,” said Andrea Crain of Join the Impact Chicago. “A flower, a balloon or something personal to you – a remembrance.”
 
The collective of organizations coordinating  the event includes:  LGBT Change, Join The Impact Chicago, Illinois Safe Schools Alliance, Gay Liberation Network, All Saints’ Episcopal Church, 50 Faggots, Adler Pride, The Civil Rights Agenda, Genderqueer Chicago.

 

For more information please contact endgaysuicide @   gmail.com
Facebook event page

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  Boystown, Recommended, Restaurants and Dining

The New Pie Hole Pizza Joint is Open for Business on Broadway in Boystown

FINALLY, The Hole is OPEN once again serving up the tastiest sausage, delicious pizza creations and the best 10″ you can find at 2am! The new PIE HOLE PIZZA JOINT is located at 3477 Broadway @ Cornelia just 1 block over from Halsted.

Formerly located at the heart of the Boystown  epicenter on Halsted and Roscoe, Pie Hole used to offer contemporary pizza in a charming atmosphere with stunning views of the 7-11 parking lot. Now they offer the same great pizza’a (or create your own)  with stunning views of the Treasure Island parking lot on Broadway and Cornelia!

Owner Doug Brandt says, “The original Hole served its purpose: We offered a place to eat for people coming out of bars,” said Brandt. “They would be drunk and belligerent, and it gave them a chance to put something in their stomach and go home a little more safely.”

After looking around in a few other Chicago neighborhoods, Brandt said he decided to keep Pie Hole in Boystown because of the established clientele. But with the decision to open earlier, Brandt hopes to cater more of a dinner rather than a late-night crowd.

While the late-night pizza spot will retain features like its hours, the décor and the specialty pizza-by-the-slice, Brandt said he wasn’t sure if the former late-night clientele will follow. He said the after-hours crowd can be “fickle” and added that their new location is further from the bars on Halsted. Pie Hole’s early morning hours will be experimental at first.

 

“We’re going to stay open until 3 in the morning. If people come then, we’re going to capture the business,” said Brandt. “If nobody comes, we aren’t going to kill ourselves to stay open so late.”

 

Pie Hole will still offer pizza by the slice until 3 a.m. It will now also be open for lunch starting at 11 a.m. Pizza prices will remain the same, starting at $3.50. And customers will be able to customize their pizza, select their toppings and watch their slice being cooked.

Diners can also choose from a menu of 15 pizzas like the WHITE PARTY, BUFF CHICK and CHER AND CHER  ALIKE. Pizza sticks, Cheese Sticks, Salads and finger-licking Toffee Pie are available as well. And the new location is  BYOB friendly.

Brandt said Pie Hole was known for its specialty pizza of the month. Past favorites included the “after-school special” with sausage and marshmallow, and the “Thanksgiving” pizza with turkey, mashed potatoes and gravy.

The same oven, the same dough – but on a recent visit,  somehow it even tasted BETTER than before!

Pie Hole Pizza Joint   773-528-8888   

Pie Hole on Facebook     Pie Hole on Twitter

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  News and Happenings, Political

Is Chicago Ready for a Gay Mayor? George Pudlo Thinks So!

For the first time in 64 years, an incumbent will not be running for the office of Mayor of the City of Chicago. It’s time for the people of Chicago to dissolve the machine politics and elect a Mayor for the People.

Meet George Pudlo !  “I am a regular Chicago denizen just like you and I am running for Mayor of the City of Chicago. I am the owner of Chicago Savvy Tours  and Second City Pizza Tours  and I am also a concierge at the Sheraton Chicago Hotel & Towers. It is my full time job to promote this city to its highest standards and reveal all the magic within. I live for this city. Chicago is my pride and joy. Ask anyone who knows me and you’ll find out that my greatest passion is Chicago.”

“You are probably wondering what’s in store for our city over the next couple of months with the decision of our current mayor to not seek reelection. I promise you that if I’m elected for mayor, I will be a Mayor for the People. I’m not here for power, I’m not here for political gain -I’m here for you and I’m here to put a halt to the machine politics of Chicago. It’s about time we elected someone to take responsibility and accountability for the actions of the city; someone to help create jobs, to lower the city deficit, and bring democracy back to Chicago. It’s time we elect one of us!”

George Pudlo for Mayor !
George on FaceBook

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  Benefits, HIV, News and Happenings

Masquerade Ball at Crimson to Benefit AIDS Foundation Chicago October 16th

Be sexy,
be mysterious,
be anything you desire as premier special event marketing and media firm, K Dock Media, hosts Chicago’s tastemakers and movemakers

at The Masquerade Ball on Saturday, October 16th,
at the ultra chic Crimson Lounge,
333 N. Dearborn, from 10p – 3a in Chicago. 

Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the door. 
Formal attire and masks are required. 
 
K Dock Media’s not-for-profit partner for The Masquerade Ball is the AIDS Foundation of Chicago .  Founded in 1985 by community activists and physicians, the AIDS Foundation of Chicago is a local and national leader in the fight against HIV/AIDS. We collaborate with community organizations to develop and improve HIV/AIDS services; fund and coordinate prevention, care, and advocacy projects; and champion effective, compassionate HIV/AIDS policy.  Proceeds from the event will benefit the organization.
 
“We are proud to support the AIDS Foundation of Chicago, states David Dodd, director of public relations for K Media. “They have been an incredible force in Illinois and in the nation to eradicate the disease as well as support thousands of people who have been affected by HIV/AIDS.”
 
Dress to impress, mingle and groove to the sounds of music provided by guest DJs for the night all for a good cause.  To purchase tickets and for more information about The Masquerade Ball, please visit K Dock Media .

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