Author Archives: Gay Lesbian LGBT Travel
HOMOPHOBIC Schuyler County Sheriff Don Schieferdecker Should Resign
OH NO HE DIDN’T!
Oh, But YES HE DID. And he got caught!
The Civil Rights Agenda (TCRA), an Illinois’ statewide LGBTQ advocacy and political organization, is calling for the resignation of Schuyler County Sherriff Don Schieferdecker after it was reported that he posted a comment on Facebook that referred to a co-worker as a
“little fag Jew boy.”
“It is absolutely incomprehensible that an elected official would use such language to refer to a subordinate. I don’t care if it was meant in jest or not. I don’t care if he meant for everyone to see it or not. The fact is, the comment is now public and there should be consequences for statements such as this,” stated Anthony Martinez, Executive Director of The Civil Rights Agenda. “Not only is this remark extremely hurtful to many Illinoisans, it sends a message to folks that it is okay to use such language. It sends the message that it is appropriate to mock Jewish people and people who are gay or part of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) Community.”
“There is no room for bigots in this state,” said Lowell Jaffe, Political Director of The Civil Rights Agenda. “As a Jewish descendent and a member of the LGBT Community, this comment turns my stomach. The Sheriff is a very public figure and an elected official; he is a leader. His comments do not show leadership, they reek of discrimination and ignorance. Think of what this says to a child, especially a child who may be struggling with their sexual identity.”
CALL TO ACTION; CALL HIM OR EMAIL HIM!
The Civil Rights Agenda is asking residents of Illinois, especially residents of Schuyler County, to contact the Sheriff and respectfully ask him to step down. Schuyler County Sheriff Don Schieferdecker can be reached at (217) 322-4366, or by email at schuylercoso@casscomm.com.
“I am extremely sorry,” Schuyler County Sheriff Don Schieferdecker told AOL News this afternoon. “I have spent over 30 years of my life here giving public service, and I have never intentionally done anything to hurt anyone for any reason. … All I can do is say I am sorry. … I am extremely sorry [and] I beg people’s forgiveness.” – he is sorry he got caught!
Schieferdecker apologized for making a derogatory post on Facebook.Schieferdecker made the comment under a photo of what appears to be a young boy with his mouth hanging open. The poster wrote: “Look, I found a fag,” to which Schieferdecker replied in a post that has apparently been removed:
“Yup and his mouth is open, his glasses are off, he’s ready, little fag Jew boy.”
Contacted by AOL News, Sheriff Schieferdecker admitting making the comment:
“It was a — what I thought to be a harmless joke between friends and employees that I wasn’t aware of that was going out worldwide,” Schieferdecker said. “I mean it was a response to a joke and it was sent out as a joke.” WTF?
“We will be watching this very closely,” said Anthony Martinez. “We will be contacting the elected officials in the area, and other organizations and groups within the state that will work with us to ensure that the Sheriff is held accountable for his discriminatory remarks.”
Best Gay Chicago.com
(Who you calling a fat jelly doughnut?!)
CHARO in Chicago One Show Only May 14th
aka CHARO!
Will make her only Chicagoland
appearance on MAY 14th!
You DO NOT want to miss this! She was in New York City in February and I had friends see the show and they said the 60 year old entertainer “WORKED IT OUT!”
The Spanish-American actress, comedienne, and flamenco guitarist, is probably best known for her flamboyant stage presence, her provocative outfits, and her trademark phrase (“cuchi-cuchi”).
Only a few people in show business are recognized by just one name. Charo is one of them. She one of the few who’s name brings a smile to everyone’s face.
She’s one of the few who deserve to be called a Master Performer. Since the 70’s, Charo, the musician, singer, comedienne, stage and screen performer, has been an integral proponent of contemporary Latin music.
The spotlight on Charo has been shining brighter than ever since her acceptance of the Female Pop Album of the Year Award. She received this accolade at the Billboard International Latin Music Conference for her flamenco inspired platinum album, Guitar Passion.
CHARO!
Get tickets now .
Moraine Valley Community College, 9000 W. College Pkwy., Palos Hills, IL 60465-0937
Best Gay Chicago.com
Chicago Red Dress Party Event – Red Hot Runway March 29
Just weeks away,
The Chicago Red Dress Party happens
on April 16th.
Have you seen the display window at BEATNIX?
(Corner of Roscoe and Halsted)
Delicious red dresses galore!
To support the mission of the Chicago Red Dress Party, PRSSA is hosting a fashion design competition, “Red Hot Runway,” highlighting Columbia College fashion designers. It will serve as a pre-event to the April 16 Chicago Red Dress Party while simultaneously working to benefit the organization and its beneficiaries-AIDS Foundation of Chicago and Equality Project. Donations for the Red Dress Party organization will be taken and tickets to their April 16th fundraiser will be sold at that time.
Fifteen student designers have designed one red dress that will hit the runway on March 29, 2011. Each piece will be judged based on execution, design quality, and wear-ability. The 900 Shops are donating a window featuring the top three dresses April 1-18. Various other prizes will be awarded to winners.
Judges will include:
Candace Jordan | Candid Candace
Kevin Aeh | Editor at Timeout Chicago
Miriam Cecilia Carlson | Designer & Owner at Miriam Cecilia
Jerry Svec | Founder of XOXO & Columbia College faculty
8 PM Reception
9 PM Runway Show
Donations for the Chicago Red Dress Party will be taken all night.
Dress is formal attire.
**TO ATTEND: You MUST RSVP to rhrRSVP@gmail.com
This event will fill up fast, so send your RSVP’s before the list cuts off!
Best Gay Chicago.com
Run Off Election Between James Cappleman and Molly Phelan April 5th
I have to say, I am a little shocked. We have strongly supported Cappleman since day one. Yet we see a lot of people in the gay community throwing their support behind Phelan…..and that worries me. Did we learn nothing from Schiller? I hear Molly say that she will work with landlords to ensure that the ward continues to have ENOUGH AFFORDABLE RENTAL HOUSING to maintain cultural diversity.- I think we have ENOUGH. STOP! She sounds just like Schiller talking and I for one, do not want more of that!
HUD actually says a community needs to offer at least 20% affordable housing. The 46th ward has 24% already.
James on the CRITICAL ISSUES:
Economic Development:
1. He will work with the area businesses to assist them with discouraging aggressive panhandling, public drinking and graffiti
2. Will work with social services to hold their clients more accountable for their behavior
3. Will work with community members and businesses to create a Ward Development Master Plan
4. Will overlay this master plan with a retail market survey to identify needed businesses for the area.
5. Will use the $1.3 million dollars in menu funds for improvements including more streetscaping, pedestrian lighting, planters, and public art to attract foot traffic in the area
6. Will promote more street fairs, music festivals, and farmers’ markets in retail areas to bring more consumers to the ward.
Public Safety within the Ward:
1. Will immediately respond to any violent incident within the ward and inform the community of plans to address the situation
2. Will collaborate with the police and CTA to reduce the rate of crime around El stations and bus stops
3. Will continue to work with police commanders from 20th & 23rd Districts to assist with coordinating public safety issues that border one another within the 46th Ward
4. Will identify residential buildings with high rates of 911 calls and require their managers to create a plan to address the causes of crime on their property or face serious consequences
5. Will encourage area schools to participate with Explorers, a Police-sponsored program that helps reduce gang activity.
Community Input:
1. Will create a committee involving community organizations to vote on development, zoning, and TIF issues. 2. Will have monthly community-wide forums to get community input on controversial matters before a City Council vote.
3. Will have an up-to-date ward website
4. Will hold expanded office hours into the evenings and every weekend
5. Will require City departments to offer random customer service surveys and have the cumulative scores from these surveys made available to the public.
James is an active neighbor and regularly attends Belmont Harbor Neighbors Association, East Lakeview Neighbors, Lakeview Citizens Council, Buena Park Neighbors, and Truman Square Neighbors.
MOLLY IS NOT!
He also has been involved with Clarendon Park Neighborhood Association, Lakeside Neighbors, Magnolia-Malden Neighbors, Beacon Block Club, Fix Wilson Yard, Uptown Neighborhood Council.
MOLLY HAS NOT!
James also is active with the following CAPS Beats 2024, 2311, 2312, 2313, 2322, and 2323.
MOLLY IS NOT!
For the past ten years, James has been on the board of directors for the Uptown Chicago Commission (UCC), a not-for-profit neighborhood organization that seeks to improve the quality of life for all Uptown residents. He just finished serving his second term as the board president. James has helped form block clubs, organize service projects, and create open access to necessary information for residents throughout the 46th Ward.
James’ long-time partner of 18 years, Richard Thale, is chair of the 23rd Police District’s Court Advocacy Committee and a CAPS facilitator for Beat 2312. In response to gang violence within a block of their home, they both organized and attended positive loitering events for 14 straight Fridays in late 2009.
Just this week, Cappleman announced the support of more progressive leaders: State Senator Heather Steans and Alderman Mary Ann Smith!
BOTTOM LINE- JAMES WANTS TO MOVE THE WARD FORWARD. And it’s time for a change!
Equality Illinois PAC, a political action committee affiliate of Equality Illinois, has announced its endorsement of James Cappleman for 46th Ward Aldeman.
Mark your calendars for the next debate…Thursday, March 24 at 7pm. Location to be announced soon.
If you’d like to know more about James give us a call at 312-725-VOTE (8683)
or James for Change.
BestGayChicago.com
Equality Illinois Hosts Baseball Season Kickoff Social March 31st
Equality Illinois, the state’s largest organization advocating for full equality for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people, is kicking off the 2011 baseball season with a pre-opening day social aimed at bringing together fans of the Chicago Cubs and of the White Sox.
Attendees will have the chance to mix and mingle with current and former baseball players such as White Sox great Minnie Minoso, and meet the editor of the best-selling Baseball Prospectus, Christina Kahrl. Contributing authors to the Baseball Prospectus will also be in attendance.
Attendees will have a chance to win tickets to 2011 season games, team memorabilia, copies of the newest edition of Baseball Prospectus, among other prizes.
The event will take place on Thursday, March 31st from 6–9pm at Sluggers Bar, one of Wrigleyville’s most renowned hotspots, at 3540 N. Clark Street. Tickets are $10 at the door and include 2 complimentary cocktails, light bites, and a ticket for the drawings.
For more information about Equality Illinois, visit Equality Illinois.
Kickoff for Equality
Thursday, March 31, 2011 6:00pm-9:00pm
Sluggers Bar 3540 N. Clark Street Chicago, IL 60613
Civil Union Tracker PLUS LGBT Wedding Expo
We know that many couples are looking forward to celebrating their civil union with family and friends after the law goes into effect on June 1, 2011.
The LAMBDA LEGAL/Equality Illionis Civil Union Tracker system aims to ensure that same-sex and different-sex couples who have a civil union (either because they have applied for one in Illinois, or because their out-of-state marriage, civil union, or domestic partnership qualifies as a civil union in Illinois) are treated fairly under Illinois law.
We know from experience in other states that have adopted civil union laws, that many couples and their children encounter problems getting respect for their relationships, whether in hospitals settings, by insurers, employers, schools or in other situations. While not all unfair treatment leads to legal action, knowing more about your rights will help you respond.
Please join our Illinois Civil Union Tracker. Complete the form and you will be connected to our team of experts who will help you navigate this new territory in Illinois. If you or someone you know is having trouble getting proper treatment as a couple in a civil union, contact the Illinois Civil Union Tracker Team.
SIGN UP TODAY .
ALSO – LGBT WEDDING EXPO in Chicago Sunday March 27th.
The Wedding Expo, presented in partnership with the Rainbow Wedding Network will take place on Sunday, March 27 from 1 to 4pm at the Holiday Inn Mart Plaza in Chicago. The event is open to the general public, and tickets, required for admission, can be obtained at http://eqil.org/civil.html.
“Same-sex couples across the State have waited for a long time for their relationships to have legal recognition. Now that civil unions are law, we want to support these happy couples in planning their celebrations.” said Bernard Cherkasov, CEO of Equality Illinois.
With the theme of “Same Love, Same Rights,” the 3rd annual LGBT Wedding Expo will provide a backdrop for couples to connect with LGBT-friendly business professionals who can assist blissful couples with planning their civil union weddings or other ceremonies. Representatives from Equality Illinois will be available to answer any questions attendees may have about civil unions in Illinois. A diverse group of gay-friendly businesses will participate, including photographers, event coordinators, officiants, ceremony and reception venue representatives, cake decorators, entertainment representatives, floral designers, travel planners, and legal resource professionals.
Chicago Gay and Lesbian Wedding Expo
Sunday March 27, 2011 1:00pm-4:00pm
Holiday Inn Mart Plaza 350 West Mart Center Drive Chicago, IL 60654
Michael Snell and Best Gay Chicago.com is now offering Civil Union Photography for your special event!
Contact us at 773-878-5323 if you want details about hiring us!
Cinema Q – Free LGBT Films On Wednesdays
presents Cinema Q,
a new film series celebrating outstanding LGBT movies made in Chicago.
The free screenings will take place on four Wednesdays: March 16, 23, 30, and April 6, 2011 in the Chicago Cultural Center’s Claudia Cassidy Theater. All screenings will feature a discussion and Q&A following the film. Films contain mature subject matter. Viewer discretion advised.
Wednesday, March 16
Quearborn & Perversion (2007): Join filmmaker Ron Pajak for a screening and discussion of his documentary about the history of gay and lesbian culture in Chicago.
Wednesday, March 23
Go Fish (1994): Rose Troche’s shot-in-Chicago lesbian romance has become an indie classic! Also showing, never before seen outtakes from Fish Out of Water, the acclaimed 2009 documentary that explores the relationship between homosexuality and the Bible, with filmmaker Ky Dickens in person!
Wednesday, March 30
JoJo Baby (2010): The Clive Barker executive produced documentary portrait of artist and Chicago nightclub legend JoJo Baby, with JoJo in person! Also showing, Peter Neville’s music videos of local gender bending rock-n-roll group The Joans with Peter Neville in person!
Wednesday, April 6
Were the World Mine (2008): The award winning gay musical reimagining of Shakespeare’s “A Midsummer’s Night Dream,” with local cast and crewmembers in person! Followed by a complimentary dessert reception in the G.A.R. Rotunda (courtesy of J & L Catering)
ALL SHOWS at 6:30 ALL SHOWS ARE FREE
Chicago Cultural Center’s Claudia Cassidy Theater 78 E. Washington
BestGayChicago.com
Simon Cowell Holds Search for X Factor in Chicago
The X Factor?
It’s Simon Cowell’s new prime-time television show of make it or break it competition and it’s hitting the small screen this fall. And this time, there are no restrictions.
Solo singers, vocal groups and anyone over the age of 12 will have the chance to win a $5 million recording contract with Sony music.
If you think you’ve got what it takes, auditions start on March 27 in Los Angeles and will travel to Miami, Seattle, Chicago, Newark and Dallas. Now is your chance to sign up, who knows, you could be the next big star.
Los Angeles March 26/27
Miami April 6/7
New Jersery April 13/14
Seattle April 19/20
Chicago April 26/27
Dallas May 25/27
Be sure to visit Fox X Factor for a step-by-step guide for your audition – everything you need to know to show up and be prepared.
Isaiah Grass….Model and Singer in Chicago
You know the saying…
Don’t judge a book by it’s cover..
You may look at this young man and would never guess he has a powerful voice, but in fact he does!
Meet ISAIAH GRASS from Chicago.
Isaiah was recognized at a young age where he raised attention to a voice that carries with potential, soul, and purity in its sound. Since middle school he has performed at many different venues such as special events, celebrations,weddings to name a few… When Isaiah writes and composes his music, he is inspired and influenced by an array of genres which carries a deep respect for hip-pop, soul, R&B, rock and others.
Isaiah’s Single “I’M A FREAK” was released in January with an immediate success with more than 100,000 hits in 3 weeks on his website and over 3,000 “likes” in the well-know Facebook website. The song is a mix of pop and dance.
The agents for Isaiah released “Starting Over” in February. This song is totally different from his first single “I’m a Freak”. Think Levi Kreiss / Jay Brannan.
Over the years, Isaiah had explored into what most guys his age only dream of. He has captivated those from many facets of entertainment and revealed incredible potential to make his mark in not only music and modeling, but also as a positive influence and inspiration to those who follow.
While I was trying to figure out the direction to take about my singing career, I was contacted by a modeling agency to attend one of their castings, which after some serious talking with my parents, I went.
Out of over 300 people at this casting I got selected. For the first time, I learned what a contract was but it wasn’t for music instead for modeling. I had mixed feelings because I knew music was my main goal and passion so I juggled the thought in my head of which I really wanted to do…”
So here he is DOING BOTH!
ISAIAH GRASS….One to Watch in 2011!
Dan Savage and Terry Miller Read in Chicago March 23
Equality Illinois,
the State’s largest organization advocating for full equality for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (“LGBT”) people, is pleased to partner with Unabridged Bookstore to bring Dan Savage and Terry Miller to Chicago to read, discuss, and sign their newest book, IT GETS BETTER, based on the immensely popular web video series.
Come see why millions of people have taken to this positive and touching message for LGBT youth.
This event is free and open to the public.
Dan Savage and Terry Miller Read, Discuss, and Sign IT GETS BETTER
Wednesday, March 23 at 7:00pm
Nettelhorst Elementary School 3252 N Broadway Chicago, IL 60657
Equality Illinois was founded to secure, protect and defend the civil rights of lesbian, gay bisexual and transgender Illinoisans. It is one of the Midwest’s largest gay civil rights organizations.
BestGayChicago.com
Chicago Takes Off Raises Over $150,000 for TPAN
They started out fully clothed…..
and the clothes gradually came off!
The 5th annual Chicago Takes Off / Lido des Boyz was a HUGE SUCCESS.
More than $150,000 was raised for TPAN with 2 SOLD OUT back to back shows!
It was an AMAZING production produced by Todd Kiech and Keith Elliott. The annual burlesque revue-style show featured over 125 talented male and female dancers, who donate their time and energy to strut their stuff in support of TPAN. Colorful and energetic choreographed performances and entertainment engage audiences in this sexy celebration of life. It was so well done and some amazing costumes!
Much more photos on Facebook and some of the more risque shots are in a slide show.
MARK YOUR CALENDAR FOR NEXT YEAR!
March 3rd, 2012
BestGayChicago.com
Eat Right Get Fit with the Trainers from World Gym Chicago
Many gay men are obsessed with their body image.
American men spend over-
•$4 billion a year on exercise equipment and health club memberships
•$3 billion on grooming aids and fragrances
•$800 million on hair transplants
•$1 BILLION on male cosmetic surgery procedures, procedures such as pectoral implants, chin surgery, and penis enlargement and procedures such as liposuction and rhinoplasty (nose jobs).
A Playgirl centerfold model of 1976 would need to shed 12 lbs of fat and gain 27 lbs of muscle to be a centerfold of today! OK- we get – many of us are obsessed!
But if you have a desire for a great body – what are you doing about it? And do you know what you are doing?
Are you eating sensible and healthy??
I can’t tell you how many guys I see at the gym, spending as much as 2 hours a pop working out – then eating garbage food.
Or my favorite, the guy who is on a treadmill with his coffee in one hand and his cell phone in the other!
You have to eat right. It’s about learning to control caloric intake throughout the year, in addition to working out. It is a lifestyle adaption, and many people don’t follow through or don’t have the knowledge to make the right decisions.
We could write pages and pages of nutritional tips – and that’s what well do in coming months, so this is just the tip of the iceberg. Some of the trainers at World Gym of Chicago on Montrose shared their thoughts and expertise and a few tips.
I like World Gym because of its comfortable atmosphere. The owner says, “World Gym is not a “health club”, but a gym dedicated to the improvement and maintenance of our members’ health and fitness.
Our philosophy is not to enroll hundreds of new members, induced to sign up by an endless string of “special offers”…but to build a strong base of loyal members and work hard to earn that loyalty in continuum. We have found that this philosophy has created an environment where men and women of all ages, from the “just getting started” to the “top athlete,” all exercise in a comfortable, non-frantic atmosphere. We are a result producing, not stress producing, gym.”
So here we go – 5 quick tips and pointers –BASIC RULE #1: Our body weight is determined by the amount of energy that we take in as food and the amount of energy we expend in the activities of our day.
In basic terms, you can not eat more than you expend. OR you must burn more than eat. And you have to make healthy choices when you eat. You can’t consume buckets of sugar and fat and expect to get lean and build muscle.
When it comes to Protein; Drink whey protein 20 minutes before a meal. The Minnesota Applied Research Center in Minneapolis found that the protein consumption caused a much greater loss in body fat than the placebo. The whey protein maintains blood sugar levels, which decreases appetite. And, the protein provides the building blocks your body needs to recover from your exercise program.
You can have TOO MUCH protein. The next time you urinate, take a gander into the toilet bowl. I’m serious.
Now tell me if your urine is bubbly and has a frothy consistency. Like beer.
If you’ve been supplementing your diet with protein in line with a bodybuilding routine, I’m going to bet you that chances are, you have bubbly urine. Now what does bubbly urine imply? proteinuria.
Proteinuria is a medical condition whereby too much protein is ingested for the body to utilize. The kidneys then work overtime to filter out this excess protein, and out it goes through your urine. Excess protein = bubbly urine.
2. Go nutty for nuts. Nuts are high in calories and fat – so it might seem strange that they’re a great weight release food. But they are. Researchers from Purdue University found that nuts are high in nutrients and antioxidants, that they help prevent degenerative diseases and that they are linked to reduced body fat. Nuts prevent hunger (consume a handful before going out to eat!), and they take a long time – and lots of energy – to digest. This research is providing new support for the caveman diet – which holds that we should eat nuts, berries, vegetables, lean meats, etc. – just like our ancestors.
3. Green tea is a fat loss miracle. Research from Maastricht University in Holland is making me a green tea believer. Green tea promotes weight release, weight maintenance, improved blood sugar regulation and even decreases abdominal fat! Of course, green tea doesn’t do it alone – you need to combine it with a comprehensive exercise and nutrition program.
4. SUGAR. Eat foods that are low on the gylcemic index. The glycemic index measures how fast certain foods increase blood sugars. Foods like white bread are very high on the index, and foods like whole grains are ranked much lower. Those foods that are high on the index seem to trigger fat storage – though researchers aren’t quite sure why. Here’s a list of how some of the most common foods rank .
5. SLEEP. Poor sleep = increased abdominal fat. Researchers from Wake Forest embarked on a multi-year study and found that too little – or too much – sleep led to increased risk of obesity and abdominal fat. 6 – 7 hours a night was found to be ideal.
THANKS to the trainers at
World Gym of Chicago !
With 7 locations!
Some recommended reads:
Chicago Red Dress Party is Just Weeks Away!
Chicago’s First Annual Red Dress party! a national event that draws over 800 attendees per city to create awareness and visibility for raising funds dedicated to the research and care of HIV/AIDS patients. Sure to be one of the most dynamic events of the year, this acclaimed event will feature international entertainment – including recording artist Kristine W. and Chicago’s very own Miss Foozie. Hosted by Marcus Riley (NBC) and Candace Jordan (Candid Candace) the event will be taking place at 525 W. Monroe St., compliments of Tishman Speyer Properties. The Chicago Red Dress Party is honored to have named AIDS Foundation of Chicago and Equality Project as the official beneficiaries.
WHAT WILL YOU WEAR????
As a strict requirement: all attendees must wear red. In honor of the “Red Dress” – everyone is encouraged to attend wearing a red dress – even men are invited to join in on the fun!
Date: April 16, 2011
Time: 8:30p.m. – 2:00a.m.
(VIP Admission: 8:30p.m. | General Admission: 9:00p.m.)
Venue: 525 W. Monroe St.
Tickets: General Admission: $80 | VIP: $150 | VIP Exclusive: $1000
More info here: www.chicagoreddressparty.org/tickets
The History….While it’s hard to trace the roots of a long-standing tradition, we’ll do our best to bring you the history of this grand standing event. In the early 1990’s, two gentlemen were dating when they both contracted HIV/AIDS. To show their love and dedication they vowed that when one of them passed away, the other would attend their funeral adorned in a red dress. From this promise the concept of the Red Dress Party began. Currently there are Red Dress Parties all over the United States from Seattle, Washington to Chicago, IL. Oh and yes… You must wear your best red attire to attend!
BestGayChicago.com
Center on Halsted Raises $50,000 from Oscars Party
Over 83 BILLION
people watched
the Oscars this year!
Here in Chicago 300+ patrons raised $50,000 for Center on Halsted programs and services, at their annual Oscar Extravaganza!
It was a first class production with Las Vegas style showgirls, televisions everywhere, delicious foods and drinks galore.
The rooftop at The Center was enclosed and heated to provide a very cool lounge type room. And a wonderful silent auction helped raise a lot of money!
Chicago has sure come a long way!
Starting with Gay Horizons, founded in 1973 as a volunteer-run telephone helpline and meeting place for gays and lesbians, growing into The Center on Halsted, 175,000 square feet offering an abundance of services to the LGBT community . It is a world-class center we should be very proud of, and support any way we can.
NEXT UP –
HUMAN FIRST 2011 .
May 14th with Wanda Sykes and
Linda Eder at the Harris Theater.
Sure to be a great evening!
Anti-Gay Rev. Byron Brazier Joins Rahm Emanuels Team
Chicago mayor-elect Rahm Emanuel’s transition team cochairs include the Reverend Byron Brazier (pictured), whose denomination denounces homosexuality.
The transition team has no LGBT people among its cochairs, but it does have a minister from an antigay religious denomination…..should we be worried?
“We look forward to working with the team of co-chairs to help identify the priorities for the city of Chicago, including the priorities of the LGBT community, and figure out a path to addressing them as soon as the mayor is in office,” Cherkasov said.
Brazier’s presence on the transition team is an eyebrow-raising choice, however. Brazier’s father and the previous pastor of the Apostolic Church of God, the late Bishop Arthur, supported the Federal Marriage Amendment. Additionally, the church is affiliated with the Pentecostal movement, which generally condemns homosexuality as sinful.
Rev. Irene Monroe, coordinator of the African American Roundtable of the Center for Lesbian and Gay Studies in Religion and Ministry at the Pacific School of Religion, said Emanuel’s selection of Brazier while not including any LGBT co-chairs was an intentional, and troubling, choice.“It is a great concern,” Monroe said. “Why that particular church when there are so many progressive churches he can choose from?
Monroe added that the inclusion of Brazier reminded her of Obama’s inclusion of anti-gay leaders in his team: “I think what bothers me most about that is that progressives like Rahm and Obama don’t mind taking LGBT money for their campaigns and don’t mind our vote, but when it comes to full-throated advocacy, they invariably either let us down or leave us waiting like this time is never the right time for them to hit these particular issues.”
What Exactly Does the Center on Halsted Do?
I am really amazed when I talk to friends here in Chicago who really have no idea of what goes on at the CENTER ON HALSTED . They just think it’s a place to hang out and have no idea of what the Center has to offer!
Everyone should sign up for their monthy newsletter . And from time to time, we’ll provide a snapshot of some of the months highlights. There really is something here for everyone!
For March –
“When Romeo Was A Woman,” a presentation of the Out at CHM series
Thursday, March 10, Cocktails at 5:30 p.m. event at 6:30 p.m.
$12/ $10 students/CHM members
Charlotte Cushman, 1816-1876, was the nineteenth century’s most famous cross-dressing and woman-loving actress. Her performance of Shakespeare’s star-crossed lover was legendary, and she wowed male and female audiences alike at local theaters, like McVicker’s in Chicago, during her American tours. Join cultural historian Lisa Merrill for a behind-the-scenes look at how spectators and critics talked and wrote about sexuality on stage. Jill Austin, museum curator, will begin the program with a brief introduction to LGBT-related life and themes in mid-19th-century Chicago. About Face Theatre Artistic Director Bonnie Metzgar and the Laramie Project’s co-author Leigh Fondakowski will join the discussion to talk about how gender-bending pioneers continue to impact our stages.
Speed Dating for Men 21+
Thursday, March 10, 7PM $12 at the door
Looking to date, make friends or to meet that special someone? It’s time for some real-time, fun-time speed dating at Center on Halsted. You will have an opportunity to meet everyone and leave with contact information for your matches! Cash bar opens at 6:45 PM.
a conversation with Atty. Ray Koenig
Tuesday, March 15, 6:30PM FREE
Beginning this summer, Illinois will offer civil unions to same-sex couples. Hear from legal expert Ray Koenig about what this will mean for you—whether you have partnership arrangements or not.
Ray J. Koenig III, is a member in Clark Hill’s Litigation Practice Group in its Chicago office. He practices in the areas of probate litigation, trust litigation, fiduciary litigation, elder law and estate planning. Ray has represented individuals, families, financial institutions, medical institutions, and governmental organizations in all areas of his practice. Ray has extensive trial, appellate and mediation experience in state and federal courts.
Ray is frequently appointed Guardian Ad Litem and defense counsel by judges in guardianship cases, and has been appointed Special Administrator in probate matters. Ray has also been appointed Special Assistant Attorney General in numerous matters. Ray served on a task force formed by the Commissioner of the City of Chicago Department on Aging to develop and draft legislation to significantly revise the Illinois Elder Abuse and Neglect Act.
Introduction to PowerPoint
Begins Thursday, March 17, 10AM (3-week series) $15. Sliding scale available.
Call (773) 661-0730 to register. Pre-registration required.
This class is designed for the beginning PowerPoint user and includes: creating a presentation, working with text in slides, working with slides, using design templates, different presentation views, and printing presentations.
Thursday, March 17, 6PM FREE. Pre-registration required.
Interested in a night of fine dining, smooth live jazz, and apple martinis –and getting home by 10pm? Want an alternative to your traditional St. Patty’s Day celebration? Then come on out for the SAGE Early Bird Jazz Supper Club. Bring a date, rendezvous, or live on the edge and meet someone new! Come for the sumptuous cuisine prepared by Center on Halsted’s “What’s Cookin’” program and stay for our three sassy song stylists and apple martinis. Space limited to 36.
Bisexual Movie Night
Monday, March 21, 7PM (3rd Mondays)
A casual, FREE movie night with popcorn and refreshments.
SAGE Women’s Creative Writing
Thursday, March 24, 6PM (Thursdays weekly)
Experienced facilitator from Northwestern University will guide the group through expressions of self through poetry, fiction, and journal writing. Class is limited to 15; please call or e-mail (773) 472-6469 to register.
Speed Dating for Women 21+
Thursday, March 24, 7PM $12 at the door
Looking to date, make friends or to meet that special someone? It’s time for some real-time, fun-time speed dating at Center on Halsted. You will have an opportunity to meet everyone and leave with contact information for your matches! Cash bar opens at 6:45 PM.
Legal Clinic at Center on Halsted
Tuesdays 4PM-7PM and Wednesdays 6PM-8PM
(please call to make an appointment)
Center on Halsted’s free legal clinic allows LGBT and Ally people to speak one-on-one with a licensed attorney about their specific legal concern and receive appropriate information and referral options. There is no fee for this service. For more information or to make an appointment, please contact 773.472.6469, ext. 290.
This is just a small glimpse into the Center on Halsted. Every day more than 1,000 visitors, participants and clients walk through the doors of Center on Halsted. Come experience the richness of their theatre, gallery exhibits and cultural programs. Take a class in the Computer Technology Center or use the free wi-fi throughout the building. Be a part of The Center .
Deep In A Dream: The Long Night of Chet Baker March 19-20
has played at The Castro Theater in San Francisco, CA and at Chicago’s famed Green Mill in 2009.
New York Times Best Selling Author James Gavin will be joining with some of my favorite artists and the author himself to celebrate in spoken word and music Deep In a Dream, James Gavin’s biography of jazz giant Chet Baker.
James Gavin, a contributing writer to the New York Times since 1992, has been published in Vanity Fair, New York Magazine, TV Guide, JazzTimes, Town & Country, and other periodicals. His second book (DEEP IN A DREAM) went into its second printing in its first five weeks. It has been covered in the London Times, the New York Times, Entertainment Weekly, the Wall Street Journal, and numerous other publications.
James Gavin has been interviewed on NPR a dozen times, including by Terry Gross, and will do his fifth interview for the BBC this month. The European printing of “Deep In a Dream” will appear in October. James Gavin has been featured on television from Coast to Coast, as well as over one hundred newspaper reviews in support of Deep In a Dream. He has written liner notes for over 300 albums, including Ella Fitzgerald: The Legendary Decca Recordings, which won Gavin a Grammy nomination in 1996. Gavin recently wrote STORMY WEATHER: The Life and Music of Lena Horne which was nominated for an NAACP Image Award in 2010.
Celebrate Chet Baker on Saturday, March 19 (6:30pm) at Katerina’s Supper Club
(1920 W Irving Park Rd, Chicago, IL)
Deep In A Dream: The Long Night of Chet Baker A narrated concert featuring the author of Deep In A Dream, James Gavin. Featuring vocals by Spider Saloff with Dennis Luxion, piano, Art Davis, trumpet
RESERVATIONS REQUIRED BY CALLING 773-348-7592
ALSO – On Sunday, March 20th (4pm to 6pm) the Salon Series. Best-selling Author James Gavin. Gavin will discuss and then open up an interactive Q & A as he leads discussion and remembers American icon, Lena Horne and jazz star Chet Baker.
Tickets officially tickets available now online for March 20th featuring James Gavin with special guest Spider Saloff
More details at KMP
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Cocktail and Svedka Infused Vodkas – Tuesday and Saturday Deals and Fun
Infused liquors
are the new medium for creative expression in the realm of cocktail mixology, and vodka is the ideal spirit, as any number of ingredients easily infuse into this neutral-tasting liquor and shine through with clarity.
Beyond the basic citrus infusions, you can even take the concept to the next level of creativity by using, for example, a combination of tropical fruits, or adding fiery bite with hot peppers. Subtle herb infusions perfect for exotic vodka martinis are obtainable with just a sprig or two of rosemary or basil. Infusions are surprisingly easy to make, with an end result of wonderful depth of flavor. These are exceptional when served chilled and neat, and are handy for quick cocktails with nuance and complexity.
COCKTAIL has started infusing with SVEDKA vodka!
Cocktail and SVEDKA have teamed up to create delicious organic in house infused Vodkas!
Starting in March, please join us every Tuesday 4:00-5:00 pm and Saturday 2:00-4:00 pm for our in house “Infusion 101.” We will teach all about the infusion process and what makes our infusions with SVEDKA so good.”
Some of their current creations are lemon, lime, orange, smoked green pepper, and cucumber. And more to come.
“Infusion 101” is not all work and no play….
You can enjoy any of our infusions for 50% off !
Plus Tuesdays are $2 Taco Tuesdays.
Eat and Drink, at COCKTAIL with food by the Gardens! 3359 N. Halsted.
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Ellen DeGeneres to do The Ride for AIDS Chicago
Someone on
Facebook revived BETTY WHITE’S CAREER
for Gods sake! This is the power of the people in the 21st century!
Local entrepreneurs and fundraisers Jason Mora and Michael Ross Steffen are once again doing the Chicago Ride For AIDS this year. And this year, they are asking out and proud lesbian ELLEN DEGENERES to join their team!
Through a Facebook campaign, you can join in the fun! ELLEN RIDE FOR AIDS .
Come on ELLEN! Come to Chicago and Ride with us!
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Tim Weber and Restoration Hair Salons….What Makes Them One of The Best in Chicago?
While there is no shortage of hairs salons in the Chicago area, there is definitely a clear distinction between high quality professional salons, and other average haircut salons.
WHAT MAKES A
GREAT SALON?
Without customers there would not be a hair salon. Therefore, amazing customer service must be a priority. However, it is surprising how many salons forget how import this is.
Customer service is not just about being cordial and providing the minimum service requirements. Hairdressing salons are in an extremely competitive market. Therefore, hair stylists must go above and beyond to create a great experience for you. Doing all the little things (Ensuring you know the cut a person wants, being friendly, and giving customers your undivided attention) will go a long way to be a great hair salon.
And you want to feel comfortable – not intimidated. And at Tim Weber’s RESTORATION salons , they make you feel comfortable, and deliver a great experoence.
Tim opened the original Restoration salon open in Chicago’s historic Lincoln park district in 1993… starting out as a tanning salon. Restoration has since grown into the established salon it is today. With the success of the first salon, Weber then had a vision to open a second salon in the quaint and up-and-coming Andersonville neighborhood. This dream came to fruition in December of 2008.
“Our focus is on hair. Our goal is to restore. Our desire idea is to make you happy. Our commitment is to the needs of our clients. We really do strive to bring you a relaxed yet professional environment. 0ur salons are comfortable, stylish and reflect the creativity of our staff.” says owner Tim Weber.
How do you find a great staff to ensure a good fit with a salon?
Weber reveals, “To ensure the highest quality of cosmetologisty, Restoration sets up an “audition” instead of a traditional interview process. The audition assesses personal style, professionalism, cut and color technique, versatility and personality. We want to make sure you get great service and a high-quality experience that will leave you feeling relaxed rejuvenated and restored!”
Customers RAVE about RESTORATION!
“I always look forward to my appointments at Restoration Salon which boast a clean, comfortable and relaxed setting.”
“Most salons make you feel like your being evaluated and judged from the minute you walk in, all the stylist are friendly and fun they have a work dynamic that allows everyone to sit back, relax and truley enjoy themselves, which is more then I can say for”
“Restoration Salon is lovely and the staff are always fun and friendly.”
“Tim Weber and his team know how to have fun, provide great service, and offer a full complement of hair treatments at affordable prices.”
We don’t know ANY OTHER SALON in Chicagoland that gets perfect scores, across the board.
Amazing reviews on MetroMix!
A perfect score on City Search !
Rave reviews at YELP !
Restoration Hair Salons
5349 N Clark St (between Summerdale Ave & Balmoral Ave) (773) 769-3237
2151 N. Sheffield Ave (south of Webster) (773)327-2151
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