Monthly Archives: December 2011
Equality Illinois Contributions to Help LGBT Rights Advancement
A personal letter, from Bernard Cherkasov, Equality Illinois..
As you know, this year has indeed been a year of tremendous successes for LGBT people in the state, including Illinois becoming just the sixth state to legalize civil unions. Because of your generous support of LGBT equality work and the efforts of supporters like you, we have taken a significant step toward full equality for every family in Illinois!
There is so much more to do to achieve full equality for LGBT Illinoisans. We have an incredible about of work to do in 2012. If you have not yet done so, please make an additional tax-deductible, end-of-year contribution to help Equality Illinois move forward with our statewide educational work next year.
My thoughts keep returning to the individuals and families for whom we fight every day. I think of the impact that our LGBT-rights progress has on them and our larger community. I am thankful for the greater protections and safeguards that are available in Illinois. Yet, there is still so much work to be done.
That is why I ask you to stand with us as we move forward in our battle for equal protections under the law. Will you, please, make an additional tax-deductible, end-of-year contribution to help us advance our aggressive statewide LGBT-rights agenda?
LGBT Illinoisans are counting on your support, and we cannot succeed in achieving full equality without you.
Thank you again for your support. Let’s keep moving forward!
Sincerely,
Bernard Cherkasov
Chief Executive Officer
P.S. Remember that your generous end-of-the-year donation to Equality Illinois Education Project, a 501(c)(3) organization, is tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law.
306 a Short Gay Film by Elliot London, Filmed in Chicago
Check out the short gay film ‘306’; written, directed and produced by
film maker Elliot London.
Set in Chicago, IL, this 11 minute short film
shows a day in the life of a young man. Without a single word spoken,
‘306’ is full of emotion and shows us exactly how Eric (played by Brian
Estel, from Wisconsin) feels at all times. Beautifully shot and great acting.
In just 25 days, ‘306’ received over 44,000 hits on Vimeo and was viewed in over 150 countries in every continent of the world.
When you watch ‘306’ you will think you know it all, but you don’t. Judge for yourselves.
Elliot London is an OUT film maker living in Los Angeles. “I love
making film and had a great success with my short last year titled
(306). You can follow me on my weekly video Blog called the E Life on
Vimeo or Youtube. Currently I am putting a feature together titled
Perfect Lies. I think it is very important to make film that you love.
Right now it is about making film for my community and sharing it with
the world. “
UBER New Chicago Black Car Service Taxi
Going to a nice party and you’re all dressed up…and you have to crawl into a dirty smelly yellow cab? ICK!
What about fighting for a cab on a busy Saturday night? How fun is that? Especially if it is freezing cold outside?!
Personal car service has arrived in Chicago! UBER. Everyone’s private driver. A black car service, on demand, from your phone! What could be easier? While most black car or executive car services require a 24 hour advanced notice, this is on demand.
For years I have used black car services in New York City. But still, you usually need to give some kind of advance notice.
Now you can request a car from any mobile phone—text message, iPhone and Android apps. Uber will send the nearest driver to pick you up, and text message you an estimated arrival time. Cars usually arrive within 5-10 minutes. You can even track your driver right from your phone.
Your licensed professional driver will park curbside in a sleek black car. Uber will text you again when the car arrives. Hop in the car, tell the driver your destination and you’ll be on your way.
The fee’s are automatically charged to your credit card on file, and tip is included. No fuss with money and change. It is the law in Chicago, a cab driver MUST take your credit card. But how many times do they grumble or say their machine is broken?!
“We’re changing the way people are getting around by offering a convenient, cashless, and stylish on demand car request service from your mobile phone.”
Sign up with Uber.com and download the app. It’s that easy!
Sign up at UBER or by downloading the app and inputting “BESTGAY”. These special promo codes for our readers will get your $10 off your first ride.
Sure it’s a few dollars more than a cab. But it’s worth it to arrive in style and comfort. For me, I found it most economical to ride from Boystown to downtown for events, via Lake Shore Drive. If the cars have to cut through the city,and zig zag in traffic, the bill can get a little higher. But it’s about convenience. And a luxury ride.
Uber takes GPS data from your ride and charges for distance or time depending on your speed. When your Uber is traveling over 11mph, they charge a distance fee. When your Uber is traveling at or below 11mph, they charge a time fee. There is never extra charges for late night rides, weekend rides, extra passengers, or luggage fees, it’s always the same rate.
“We carefully select which fleet partners we work with and ensure that they have all the proper licensing. We’ve also implemented a rating system for drivers. If his or her rating goes beneath a certain level, we will no longer do business with them. We’re careful to maintain a standard of only doing business with quality, licensed drivers.
When Uber was started it was a service used by us and our friends. We will never allow our friends to be put into an uncomfortable or dangerous situation because of our service. One of the most important points about Uber service is to get away from those types of situations when looking for transportation around the city.“
Currently “UBER – Your Private Driver” in 7 cities:
San Francisco, NYC, Seattle, Boston, Washington, DC, Paris and now Chicago!
Cardinal Francis George compared Gay Pride Parade to the Ku Klux Klan
Cardinal Francis George compared next year’s Gay Pride Parade to the Ku Klux Klan! (Appearing on Fox’s Chicago station).
“You don’t want the gay liberation movement to morph into something
like the Ku Klux Klan, demonstrating in the streets against
Catholicism,” Cardinal George said.
“That’s a little strong analogy, Ku Klux Klan,” Fox Chicago’s Dane Placko noted.
“It is,” Cardinal George agreed. “But you take a look at the
rhetoric, the rhetoric of the Ku Klux Klan, the rhetoric of some of the
gay liberation people. Who is the enemy? The Catholic Church.”
State Rep. Sara Feigenholtz (D) on Wednesday called on Cardinal George to apologize.
The CCWC coordinators, already imagining a New Years/Epiphany ad in the
Windy City Times, are exploring options for a paid ad which will in
some way be a counter message to George. Watch for it in this week’s
WCT. And, watch Facebook and listserv traffic for further updates
including a press release which you might consider tailoring and using
yourselves.
You may call the Cardinal’s office (312-534-8230) and demand an apology for this offensive and hurtful statement.
La Cage Aux Folles in Chicago Till Jan 1
Winner of three 2010 Tony Awards® including the award for BEST MUSICAL
REVIVAL, this hilarious new production of LA CAGE AUX FOLLES was the
biggest hit of the 2010 Broadway season, leaving audiences in stitches
night after night!
LA CAGE starring George Hamilton and Christopher Sieber tells the story
of Georges (George Hamilton), the owner of a glitzy nightclub in lovely
Saint-Tropez, and his partner Albin (Christopher Sieber), who
moonlights as the glamorous chanteuse Zaza. When Georges’ son brings his
fiancée’s conservative parents home to meet the flashy pair, the bonds
of family are put to the test as the feather boas fly! LA CAGE is a
tuneful and touching tale of one family’s struggle to stay together…
stay fabulous… and above all else, stay true to themselves!
Playing at the Bank of America Theatre, this is an awesome theatre for this show!
2000 seats – not too big and no bad seats.
With a glorious score of hummable melodies and a dynamite cast featuring
the “notorious and dangerous Cagelles,” LA CAGE is an indisputable
musical comedy classic… and this extraordinary new version shows you
why!
Now thru January 01, 2012
Ticket prices are $32 to $100. LA CAGE AUX FOLLES
Christmas Day and New Years Eve at Kit Kat Lounge
Looking for something to
do Christmas Day?
or Christmas evening??
Look no further!
Christmas Day Jingle Bell Brunch!
With live entertainment by Madam X.
At KIT KAT LOUNGE.
With half-price Martinis!
Then Christmas Evening, get 50% off your entire bill – if you bring a canned good donation
for VITAL BRIDGES.
5:30pm-2am
NEW YEARS EVE Kit Kat will offer 2 seatings at 7pm and 10pm
Four course dinner , Traci Ross and more! Get your reservations now!
PH 773.525.1111
KIT KAT
3700 N. Halsted, Chicago, IL
Boystown Landmark COCKTAIL to re-open Jan. 6th
STOP THE GOSSIP AND THE RUMORS, OK?
Cocktail DID NOT go out of business
Their landlord DID NOT take possession of the bar
They WERE NOT busted for drugs or any other violations
They WILL re-open Jan. 6th!
Chicago House Champagne Wrapture 2012 at Willis Tower
SAVE THE DATE! January 26th, 2012
Chicago House and Veuve Clicquot bring CHAMPAGNE WRAPTURE 2012 to WILLIS TOWER!
Date: Thursday, January 26, 2012
Time: 6pm
Where: The SkyDeck, Willis Tower, 233 South Wacker Drive, Chicago, IL
The top winter event has finally reached the
highest high! On the 99th floor of the Willis Tower, high flying
treats and bubbly drinks await you!
Soar to new heights and join Veuve Clicquot and Co-Chairs David
Kaufman, Tom Segal, Matthew Harvat, Dennis Remer, Scott Silverman, and
Christopher Hubbard for Champagne Wrapture 2012: Clicquot in the
Sky.
New this year, when you purchase the VIP Ticket for
Champagne Wrapture receive a VIP Gift Pack that includes surprises from
Garrett Popcorn, Terry’s Toffees and Sweet Miss Giving’s Bakery. Plus,
you will receive a commemorative SkyDeck photo taken on The Ledge!
Tickets $99 and $130. Get yours now – this party is always a hit!
BestGayChicago.com
El Mariachi Chicago Celebrates New Years Eve and New Years Day
Our FAVORITE Mexican restaurant,
El Mariachi Tequila Bar,
3906 N. Broadway,
is celebrating with New Years Eve
& New Years Day Specials!
New Years Eve –
enjoy a fabulous 3 course prix-fixe dinner
The menu will include a glass if champagne, soup or
salad, a choice of entree (Surf&Turf, Chicken, or their famous Tilapia) and a dessert. $29.99
(regular menu will also be available)
There will be 3 seatings on New Years Eve:
5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
9:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. Reservations are recomended (773) 549-2932
NEW YEARS DAY –
$20 FREE FLOWING MIMOSA BRUNCH NEW YEARS DAY SUNDAY 11:00A.M. TO 3:00P.M.
Arbonne Health and Wellness Products Come to Chicago
I recently discovered ARBONNE!
And wanted to tell you about it! Arbonne is a highly
regarded, premium brand with a Swiss heritage. The products are healthy,
botanically based and inspired by nature. The Arbonne experience starts
with changing the appearance of your skin, then it’s about changing
your life. – And with harsh, dry, cold Chicago winters, we can all use a little Arbonne!
“We
know that when it comes to buying skin care, cosmetics and nutrition
products, the recommendations and advice from people you trust are
important.“
pure, safe, beneficial™
I was on a search for better anti-aging products, than the ones I was using. And I found Arbonne. They have a line called RE9 for Men. 4 easy to use products with ingredients to soften and minimize signs of aging and helping with fine lines!
I also love the beach and sun in the summer – and I found that they offer before and after sun products. And again, these are made with natural ingredients, which is important to me.
Arbonne products are dermatologist-tested and botanically
based. Arbonne offers premium-quality beauty, health and wellness
products with targeted results. “We employ consumer and clinical testing
to reinforce our research and ensure our proprietary formulas deliver
unparalleled performance.” – and in most cities, there are local reps to help you make your purchases and offer advice.
Troy Karnoff is my local Chicago specialist.
CHECK IT OUT!
2012 – Get The Body You Want with Farrell’s Extreme Body Shaping
This year, as I turned 45, I realized my body WAS NOT what it used to be.
When I had to buy a bigger pant size, THAT WAS IT. ENOUGH. I am getting my body back. I did just quit smoking – now I need to back on a fitness regimen.
A friend told me Farrell’s Extreme Body Shaping was about to open in Lincoln Park. I looked at the photos, talked to the owner (who is gay) and joined!
Farrell’s located on 821 W. Blackhawk Street in Lincoln Park is the newest of the FXB facilities. (Right near North and Clybourn).
It is owned and operated by Jason Hedden and Bret Sharp. Jason is a long-time member, Instructor and Coach in the FXB program. He began his journey in 2007 having lost 32 pounds in 10 Weeks and 9% body-fat.
He has a background in Martial Arts and holds a black belt in Tae Kwon. He has managed and operated two facilities in Iowa. He moved to Chicago from Iowa with his husband, Danny, in order to open his own FXB facility.
“Our fitness facilities provide a
family atmosphere where everyone, regardless of their beginning fitness level,
feels welcome. We stand proudly on our track record of helping real
people see real results. Our graduation rate is very strong. More
than 80% of people who begin our 10-Week program, finish, and everyone who
completes the 10-Week Challenge will see results.” says Jason.
Farrell’s eXtreme Bodyshaping®
is a body changing, life-style transforming fitness program designed to help you quickly improve your fitness level.
“In ten weeks, our students make positive, permanent changes to their health, strength, appearance and confidence.”
Farrell’s is different than the traditional health club, gym or fitness center.
Every class is an instructor led group fitness experience. Your coach and teammates are always right there to help you stay motivated and to push you to find your level 10.
Farrell’s® 10-Week Challenge combines exercise through fitness kickboxing and strength training, nutrition, a coach, certified instructors, teammates and a $1000 contest to motivate you to transformation. The Farrell’s team will lead you to a healthy lifestyle, weight loss, increased lean muscle mass and complete body transformation.
COME JOIN ME ON MY JOURNEY!
First session launches in just a couple weeks!
Make it your New Years Resolution, like I did, to live a better, healthier, more fit lifestyle!
Call Jason for more details
319-325-6620
And Mention US!
Farrells Extreme Body Shaping Chicago
JACKIE BEAT Brings NUTCRACKER to Chicago Dec. 9
Drag superstar JACKIE BEAT
has been
entertaining audiences across the U.S. and in Europe for over two
decades with her razor-sharp comedy and hysterical song parodies.
Jackie not only warps hits by Britney Spears, Madonna, Mary J. Blige,
Christina Aguilera, Cher, Lady Gaga, Katy Perry, Mariah Carey and many
others, but she flawlessly sings her twisted new versions LIVE — hitting
every last note.
Her hilarious music videos on YouTube
are huge hits that have been seen by millions of people. Her one-woman
show “Jackie Beat Is A Whole Lotta’ Love” ran a record 18 months at
NYC’s premiere cabaret, Fez, and she returns to The Big Apple every year
with her award-winning, standing-room-only holiday show.
FRIDAY DEC. 9th
ONE NIGHT ONLY
Jackie brings her outrageous NUTCRACKER to Chicago
@ Hydrate, 8pm.
THIS IS A MUST SEE SHOW!!!
She is one of the Fashion Police in US Magazine. She says, ” It’s always big fun to make fun of people who are younger, thinner and more successful than I am!”
Jackie’s stand-up has been featured in
comedy clubs across the country and on Comedy Central, VH-1 and MTV.
She was a staff writer for the WB comedy series “Hype!”, has written for
the Sci Fi Channel and was one of US Magazine’s Fashion Police top
cops. Her scathing song parodies have been featured on America’s Top
Forty with Ryan Seacrest, The Howard Stern Show, Much Music TV, Yo on E!
and PerezHilton.com.
She has appeared on many TV shows such
as “Sex and the City” and in several movies including “Flawless” with
Robert DeNiro, the MEGA festival hit WIGSTOCK
(with LADY BUNNY and RuPaul) and the camp cult
horror favorite “Gingerdead Man 3: Saturday Night Cleaver.”
Jackie has toured with Roseanne Barr as her opening act (including a
7 week run at the New York New York in Las Vegas!), enjoys a sold-out
8-week run in Provincetown every summer, and is lead singer of the
popular electro-rock band DIRTY SANCHEZ .
When asked if Roseanne is Nice? or a Bitch? Jackie jokes, “She’s a real nice bitch!”
Show-stopping, jaw-dropping numbers — of music
and comedy — Jackie Beat is your “girl”!
WORD OF WARNING! If you are lucky enough to meet her, DO NOT KISS HER! “It takes me over 2 hours to put this face on. Do you know that kissing a drag queen is TABOO?! I kindly ask people, Would you go to the Louvre and kiss The Mona Lisa? Well, I took almost as long to paint, as she did!“
Air kisses darling, air kisses!
Miss Jackie Beat
Jackie Beat on Facebook
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 9 @ 8:00 PM
Hydrate: 3458 North Halsted Street, Chicago IL 60657
VIP tix are only $30 which includes seating in the first three rows and a complimentary cocktail!
General Admission tix are $20!
Doors open @ 7:00PM, showtime @ 8:00PM!
Tickets or more info: Hydratechicago.com
DEC. 12th Benefit at HYDRATE
Originally from Detroit, the flamboyant Cyon Flare (facebook, twitter) is creator, promoter and host of United House, the Monday night residency at Hydrate that aims to bring House Music back in Chicago’s Boystown. He’s also a vocalist that’s recorded tracks with DJ Dealer, Georgie Porgie and Edson Pride. His fabulous personality brings light into every community, crossing every boundary.
“The vision is simple. It’s in the title: “United House, A Night of Unity
in House Music”. The bigger vision is to see more people – black,
white, latino (no matter the race), straight, gay, bisexual,
transgender, lesbian, all those that love House Music – come together.
And if you don’t love House Music, come to United House and experience
the energy in the room and I think you’ll change your mind!” (Read a great interview with CYON online).
Legendary LINDA CLIFFORD will also perform!
Rosie O’Donnell and Michelle Rounds Engaged
ROSIE O’DONNELL IS ENGAGED!
She broke the news to her audience today in Chicago during a break set aside for
commercials during the taping of her new show, at the Harpo Studios.
Rosie did not say if it would be a civil union in the state of Illinois or just what the plans would be.
On Friday, she posted a photo of Michelle Rounds
on her Instagram page with the word “love.” She also Tweeted a link –
this time with the caption “happy – in love” – of her new fiancée the
same day.
The lesbian couple met at a Starbucks. In October, O’Donnell joked
that her “gaydar was way off” because she thought Rounds was
heterosexual and just 28 years old, when really she is a gay woman and
40.
“It’s fun and very exciting,” O’Donnell recently said about the relationship. “I did not expect it.”
Santa Speedo Run comes to Chicago Dec. 10
The famous Santa Speedo Run is now happening in Chicago!
It began in Boston in 2000 with 5 guys just looking to spread some
holiday spirit. Since then it has attracted thousands, intent on
raising money for children in need, to run through the streets of
Boston, and several other North American cities, in December dressed
in Speedo’s and holiday flair.
SATURDAY Dec. 10th
12:00 – 3:00
The run will launch it’s first ever Chicago Santa Speedo Run in Andersonville!
Introducing
the new Santa Speedo Run in Andersonville! This first year, folks will be
running for Vital Bridges!
“We are asking for a $20 minimum donation to
participate in the race, so start your fundraising!”
Dress Code for the Run:
As the name of the event implies, you will
want to wear a speedo and a Santa hat. Elves, Reindeer, Hanukkah
Harrys, etc. ALL are welcome! Bags will be provided for you to check
your clothes at The Sofo Tap. 4923 N. Clark.
Schedule of Events:
12:00pm – 1:30pm / Sign-in @ The Sofo Tap (4923 N Clark)
1:30pm / A few words while we get ready, then sing our Christmas Carol!
2:00pm / We begin our run along Clark St. north to Balmoral and back to Sofo (1 mile)
2:30pm / Awards
Spread the word and invite your friends!
RSVP on Facebook
World Aids Day – FREE HIV Testing Today
TODAY IS WORLD AIDS DAY.
observed December 1 every year, is dedicated to raising awareness of the pandemic caused by the spread of HIV infection.
AIDS
has killed more than 26 million people. and an estimated 35 million
people worldwide live with HIV, making it one of the most destructive
epidemics in recorded history. It is NOT OVER.
Here
in the U.S. about 50,000 people become infected with HIV annually. New
numbers from the CDC indicate that nearly 1 in 5 people (about 240,000)
don’t know they are infected.
Today from 2 p.m. – 5 p.m., staff members from Howard
Brown will offer free HIV testing at the Brown Elephant
(Andersonville), 5404 N. Clark.
Model, actor,
athlete, designer Jack Mackenroth has quickly become the most visible,
out HIV+ advocate and educator in the country… if not the world. With the release of his gorgeous, sexy 2012 calendar,
he is raising both money and awareness for AIDS research, and to
show through his photographs that a person living with HIV can be in top
physical form, healthy and sexy.All proceeds Benefit AMFAR.
His AUTOGRAPHED, high-quality, glossy, limited edition, 15-month calendar has been selling like hotcakes since September.
The calendar begins in January 2012 and continues through May
2013. Each month features a different photographer with a very different
style. $14.95!! Buy a couple. One for you and one for friends! This
is sure to be a sell out!! And every calendar sold helps the fight!
BUY ONLINE NOW
3 Men Acquitted in Chicago Gay Bashing
BEWARE OF THESE 3 MEN –
Sean Little, Benjamin Eder, and Kevin McAndrew were acquitted this week in the beating of gay man Daniel Hauff on a Chicago ‘L’ train in January 2010. A judge found the three Evanston men innocent!! WTF?!
A cell phone photo may have captured the
punch of a gay Chicago man by one of three Evanston men accused of
beating him on the CTA Red Line because of his sexual orientation.
But a Cook County judge acquitted the three
Wednesday, questioning the credibility of Daniel Hauff, the victim who
was cross-examined for about seven hours during the trial.
I happen to know Daniel personally – and this is appalling these 3 are getting off the hook!
the Sun-Times reports:
“The victim is not to be believed,” Judge Cannon said. “His inability to recall who did what is understandable. His inability to recall what he did the day after this incident is not understandable.”
Hauff, 35, testified during a bench
trial last month about what happened to him between 2 and 3 a.m. Jan.
10, 2010, as he rode the northbound CTA Red Line L toward his home.
He said the three men punched and kicked
him while calling him a “stupid faggot” after he asked them to stop gay
bashing another young man on the train. He replied dozens of times on
cross-examination that he couldn’t remember — where he’d been earlier
that night, who he spoke with the next day and more.
“We don’t choose our victims and we
don’t choose our witnesses,” Assistant State’s Attorney Dan Kirk said
during closing arguments. “This picture” he said, holding up the cell
phone photo a witness took of Eder punching Hauff, “is a perfect
witness.”
The witness who took the photos turned
out to be a convicted drug dealer, defense attorneys pointed out. And
his testimony was at odds with Hauff’s.
It’s very sad the system did not work. And three haters got off.
