Category Archives: Boystown
HOUSE INFUSION at Cocktail July 20
Hi Frequency Productions and its affiliate
Seven Presents, a Chicago based LGBT event’s production company will present
HOUSE INFUSION on July 20, 2011 from 7:00pm-2:00am at Cocktail Bar Chicago,
3359 N. Halsted at the corner of Roscoe & Halsted in Chicago’s Boystown
neighborhood.
An exciting party showcasing Chicago’s elite house music Dj’s, Go-
Go boys and tantalizing food and special libations brought to you by GRIND.
Dj Teri Bristol, Dj Carla Starla and Dj DuBCuB will spin the newest and provocative, soul stirring music that will bring everyone together.
Anthony Jay (Go-Go dancer)
will headline the stage at 10pm. Appetizers will be served at 9pm and Seven’s Signature $4 Grind (Espresso Liquor with a hint of Rum) Infusion Cocktails will be the featured beverage throughout the evening.
Other specials include $60 Veuve
bottles, table service and ½ price appetizers and salads. $5 Cover.
Event brought to you by Hi Frequency Productions,
For table service reservations and Private parties at Chicago’s premier nightclubs email James Baptist at hifrequencyjb@ymail.com.
Center on Halsted ROOFTOP Alfresco Dining Returns July 13
Intimate dining experience on the Richard M. Daley Rooftop at Center on Halsted!
Led by celebrity chef Dan Smith of The Hearty Boys, sixteen burgeoning chefs enrolled in the Center’s Silver Fork Culinary Arts Program will present two weeks of fantastic four-course al fresco dining. Each week will focus on a different regional cuisine and feature dishes from guest celebrity chefs.
The Silver Fork Program at Center on Halsted is a twelve-week vocational training program for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and allied young adults and adults (ages 18+), especially those who are unemployed or underemployed. The Dining on the Rooftop series is an opportunity for Silver Fork participants to showcase their new knowledge about fine cuisine and front-of-house dinner service. Potential employers will be in attendance at the dinners to discuss employment opportunities with the new graduates. Wednesday, July 13 and Thursday, July 14; 6PM Italy Under the Stars In our first week of the Dining on the Rooftop series, our young chefs will explore the savory and bold flavors developed over the centuries in the rolling hills of Italy. Expect refreshing appetizers, hearty pasta dishes, and tasty sweets from the birthplace of the Renaissance. Wine lovers should consider bringing a Chianti or a Cabernet Sauvignon to compliment tomato sauces. Beer lovers will prefer an American blonde ale or light lager for the evening. Wednesday, July 20 and Thursday, July 21; 6PM Une Nuit a Paris In the second week of our series, our chefs will make Julie and Julia blush as they master the art of French cooking. Traditional and modern techniques will be employed to achieve the refined flavors of several regions of France. Guests should consider bringinga Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc to balance the French flavors, or sneak across the French border by pairing with a tasty Belgian beer. Tickets are $25, and reservations can be made online at
During each session, 16 participants receive hands-on training in the culinary arts and job readiness training. Graduates of the program leave with BASSET (Beverage and Alcohol Sellers Servers Education and Training) Certification and State of Illinois/City of Chicago Food Safety and Sanitation (FSS) certification, along with the knowledge and skills to be successful placed in the hospitality and restaurant industry. COH also provides case management services to participants to link them to needed resources, and support them through the training, job search, and employment process.
The Schedule:
Centeronhalsted.org. The rooftop will be open for seating at 6pm, and dinner will begin promptly at 6:30pm. “Dining on the Rooftop” is BYOB, and drinks will be chilled and filled throughout the night. Artisanal iced teas and water will also be served. Please be sure to note all food allergies and dietary restrictions on the online registration form to ensure a positive dining experience. Vegetarian dishes will be available.
July 2 TAKE BACK Chicago BOYSTOWN From Gang Violence
STABBINGS!
THIS HAS TO STOP!
Boystown has been under attack for months now, with muggings and robberies….now in the last 2 weeks, 2 serious stabbings have taken place, with both victims being taken to the hospital.
We are being targeted. They rob, mug, stab, and rape us out of fun.. that is their answer. As the assailant on the 18th told the Hydrate Security Staff, we do it to “Just Cause Trouble”.
The Almighty Black P-stones Nation gang is targeting Gay Men. Both Knife Stabbings occurred in the 7-11 parking lot at Roscoe and Halsted. The brightest park lot on Halsted The stabbings occured on 18th and the other on the 28th. – But prior to that, there have been countless muggings.
SATURDAY July 2nd. @ 11:30, join us at the 7-11 parking lot. Halsted and Roscoe
We are going to do a Walk-About in the Neighborhood and a Positive Loitering at 7-11 ‘s parking lot.
The 23rd Precint Commander will be at the event to support the LGBTQIA community.
TAKE BACK OUR STREETS!
Chicago Pride Fest 2011 is a Awesome DIVA Fest!
It’s all about GLBT pride at Chicago Pride Fest®!
June 24-25, 2011 – immediately before Chicago’s iconic Pride Parade on June 26 – this festive two-day event marks the first official party of summer.
Hosted by the Northalsted Business Alliance, this crowd-pleasing gay and lesbian celebration of community pride showcases an eclectic lineup of arts and crafts, food and other vendors. It also features entertainment on two stages with one dedicated to some of Chicago’s fine performers in the gay community.
Pride Fest showcases an eclectic lineup of arts & crafts, food and other vendors. It also features entertainment on two stages including one dedicated to some of Chicago’s fine performers in the gay community.
(Deborah Cox , above)
Entertainment
Friday, June 24
South Stage
6:00pm – The Personnel
7:30pm – Chicago Spirit Brigade
8:15pm – Sixteen Candles
North Stage
5:00pm – Drag Show featuring Chicago’s Best Female Impersonators
7:00pm – Deborah Cox
8:00pm – Drag Show featuring Chciago’s Best Female Impersonators
9:00pm – Ultra Nate
Saturday, June 25
South Stage
Noon – Lakeside Pride Show Band
1:00pm – Pet Parade with Miss Foozie
2:30pm – Chicago RedLine
3:30pm – ROTC
5:00pm – ROTC
6:00pm – Rock Candy
7:30pm – Windy City Cowboys
8:00pm – Wedding Banned
North Stage
1:00pm – Pet Parade with Miss Foozie
1:30pm – Drag Show featuring Chicago’s Best Female Impersonators
2:30pm – Mya
3:00pm – Drag Show featuring Chicago’s Best Female Impersonators
4:30pm – Xelle
5:30pm – Drag Show featuring Chicago’s Best Female Impersonators
7:00pm – Crystal Waters
8:00pm – Kim English
8:45pm – Inaya Day
Your gate donation benefits the Northalsted Business Alliance.
The Northalsted Business Alliance works cooperatively to maintain a diverse, safe and thriving shopping and entertainment district. In 1980, a small group of retailers in a four-block area along Halsted Street joined forces to promote the street and improve business conditions.
Since its inception, the Northalsted Business Alliance has grown to represent more than 80 businesses along North Halsted Street from Barry Street to West Irving Park Road. The Association has been recognized by the media, the City of Chicago and local residents as a major force in the community, championing positive change and growth.
BestGayChicago.comAnti Circumcision Advocates March in Chicago this Weekend
may be the
first city in the United States
to outlaw circumcision.
But here in Chicago the number of anti-circumcision activists is growing as well.
Intactivists from Illinois and beyond will march in the Chicago Pride Parade on Sunday, June 26th to promote genital integrity for all. This is fun for the whole family and a great opportunity to get a human rights message to a very receptive crowd. We will hand out about 8000 intactivist leaflets.
“We will line up on Halsted Street south of Belmont at noon. I’ll know the precise address just days before, so contact me to be notified of that, or just have my cell phone number (847 414-1692) with you.
It’s a rain or shine event. Have an umbrella, sun hat, sunscreen, and water bottle, plus comfortable shoes. Backpacks and other gear can be stowed in our float (station wagon) during the parade.
TLC Tugger and the Chicago NORM group are sponsoring this event. Please help us make it a success. Email me at TLCIntactivist@GMail.com with questions – and to let me know you’re coming.
Thanks,
-Ron Low
ARF Brings Taste for a Change to Chicago June 9th
Abzyme Research Foundation Holds Taste For Change Benefit in Chicago
The Event Raises Funds and Awareness for Innovative Therapeutic HIV Vaccine Candidate
The Abzyme Research Foundation will host a benefit in Chicago to raise funds to propel HIV E-VAC, an innovative HIV vaccine candidate, into human trials. The work is being conducted at the University of Texas Houston Medical School and California Public Health Service with support from the National Institutes of Health.
Abzyme Research Foundation is committed to propelling HIV E-VAC into human trials because of its preclinical testing that show its incredible promise for both a prophylactic and therapeutic HIV vaccine. Despite over 27 million in NIH support of the past 25 years, the innovations of catalytic antibodies and covalent vaccination have not attracted the Pharmaceutical support of an industry discouraged by an inability to produce an effective HIV vaccine after 30 years of trying.
“We are so excited to announce the launch of our Taste For Change Program in Chicago. This grassroots wine tasting series to support a promising therapeutic HIV vaccine candidate has already launched in NYC, LA, Miami, and now we are thrilled to be launching in Chicago.
As Founder and Executive Director at ARF, I am thrilled at the opportunity to connect to Chicago and share w the enthusiasm that has me fighting with everything I’ve got to make sure this vaccine makes it to trial.
“What’s the big deal?” you may ask. My favorite piece of media to share is this CBS newstory entitled “Possible HIV Cure?’ (the most viewed YouTube clip under “hiv cure“).
For a modest $20 donation come taste delicious wines at Mini Bar paired with flatbread pizzas, tapas tastings, and small bites from Mini Bars delicious selection and TASTE FOR CHANGE.
RSVP on Facebook, and we look forward to seeing you there!”
Zachary Barnett, ARF.
@ Mini Bar 3341 N. Halsted Thursday June 9th, 7-9pm.
ARF is funding advancing a promising new therapeutic HIV vaccine into human trials through a national grassroots event series. Join us, and support hope for a future without HIV/AIDS.
To learn more about ARF and the vaccine candidate HIV-EVAC , visit endhiv.com
BestGayChicago.com
Best Underwear and Swimsuits for Men in Chicago is at EGOIST
The beaches in Chicago officially open this weekend…but I am not sure if the weather is going to cooperate! This is Chicago, after all. Regardless, beach season is upon us and do you have a fabulous new swimsuit to wear to Hollywood beach??
EGOIST Underwear has ALL OF MY FAVORITE brands of underwear and now has lots of hot new styles of swimsuits in stock!
Egoist Underwear offers you the finest, coolest premium male underwear from all over the world. MANY BRANDS you will find NOWHERE else! And it’s more than underwear. Cool tanks and t’s plus an amazing collection of swimsuits making it THE BEST of GAY CHICAGO!
“We think that underwear says a lot about the owner’s personality. That is why on our shelves you will find a great selection of one tone classic underwear as well as a large range of colorful, sexy prints with edgy graphics and eye-catching styles. Egoist Underwear gives you the opportunity to touch and see the products yourself instead of having to choose from a picture only. After all, this is your package we are talking about!
Egoist Underwear offers a wide selection of men’s underwear (bikini, brief, pouch, boxer brief, long boxer brief, g-string, jock strap, thong and mesh), men’s enhancing underwear, men’s swimwear (board shorts, boy shorts, square cuts, bikinis, euro cut trunks and Brazilian cut trunks) as well as short and long sleeve t-shirts, v-necks, tank tops, shorts, designer sleepwear and accessories. We specialize in brands that cannot be found at department stores and shopping malls. At our boutique, you will find eco-friendly products, like underwear by Obviously, and exclusive brands that you will not find anywhere else in Chicago, like Cocksox and 2eros (Australia), Skmpeez (Canada), Gigo (Colombia) or XTG (Spain). “
Personally, I have never been a fan of the knee length board shorts! I wanna see what he’s got, OK? And at Mercedes Benz Fashion Week this year they actually discussed fashion trends in mens swimsuits for this year. I know what you’re thinking: there are no fashion trends in men’s swimsuits. But this year, there is ONE; Men will show more leg this year.
Aside from a strong showing of retro-looking swim trunks, board shorts are rising to volleyball short length (according to that old adage about hemlines and the economy, this should herald a recovery from The Great Recession).
The fashion-forward customer will quickly embrace the thigh-grazing looks as soon as they hit store shelves this month. Already slimmer silhouettes are quietly replacing the baggier below-the-knee styles in retail…well, on-the-trend retail.
Also look for: Americana plaids; solids with color blocking; neon hues; glossy finishes and vintage prints.
SYLVESTER, the owner of EGOIST says, “we’ve been selling lots of square cuts and trunks and right now selection of those is the biggest in my store. Hot this season are the Brazilian style trunks with no pouch – Skmpeez offers them too. Plaid is big, as usual. As far as brands go, Skmpeez and Pistol Pete rule!”
When it comes to gay men’s underwear and swimwear – there are only two requirements–they have to look great and they have to make you look great. Today’s fashion undergarments come in more styles, colors and patterns than you can possibly imagine, and that’s exactly what you need to show off your stuff. There’s a lot of competition on the gay scene, and you can’t afford to let your goods fade into the background.
Egoist Underwear is located at 3706 N Halsted St, Chicago IL 60613.
You can also shop and buy online.
From Australia to Chicago! Only at Egoist.
Male premium underwear & swimwear in Chicago. Andrew Christian, Timoteo, Cocksox, Pistol Pete, 2(x)ist, XTG, N2N, Gigo, Mundo Unico, 2eros, Joe Snyder, Obviously, Baskit, Ajaxx63, LASC and Good Devil. Sizes XS to 3XL.
BestGayChicago.com
1VU Annual Memorial Day Ceremony May 30th
1VU was founded on the belief that one person can make a difference, but by forming alliances we can share One View:
A United World.
“Our goals are simple: to reinvent what pride means to the LGBTQ community, take that new found strength, apply it to our causes, and with this knowledge and experience that we have gained, reach out to help other communities and causes.
We all benefit and achieve our goals sooner when we pull together as a family and work as one. Our passion is to inspire everyone to understand that it is not What we have or What we are, but Who we are and What we leave behind.”
STEVE CRAWFORD is one of the Founding members of 1VU. Being a Chicago native, he has always had strong sense of Pride for the city and it’s people. With Steve’s dedication and desire to help others and the environment, he is very excited to be a part of 1VU and it’s efforts.
Steve and his organization is featured in Time Out Chicago this week. He wants to create a monument (Radiance) in memory of LGBT Service Members, which will stand at Space Park, 815-817 W Roscoe st. The monument will cost about $100,000 and fundraising is underway now, and we’ll be covering some of the upcoming events here!
They will holding their 2nd Annual Memorial Day Ceremony May 30th, 2011 @ 2PM CST
at Space Park.
But check out the new Time Out Chicago for the full story and stop by thier site 1VU.
BestGayChicago.com
The Right Side of Forty…Increasing Happiness for Gay Men May 26th
With over two decades of clinical experience working with gay men, Bergeron provides insight into how being gay impacts comfort with aging. All ages of gay men welcome, and for gay men over forty – even decades over forty – this workshop is for you!
Right now is an unprecedented moment in our gay history. Today: we are the first large group of openly gay men to deal with the issues of getting older. How is that possible? The earlier generation, the Stonewall men: were decimated in numbers by AIDS in the 80’s and early 90’s.
“Think about how monumental that makes what we are going through now. I turn forty-nine this year and I cannot even imagine the added security and comfort I would possess with getting older if I saw packs of older gay men in their sixties, seventies and eighties. If they were still around, it does not guarantee I would be inspired by how they were aging. But because there would be so many examples of older gay men: it would assist my decisions building my own list of the do’s and the don’ts with getting older. I am painfully aware that I am forced to figure out my version of success and failure being older without this help.”
“The Right Side of Forty: The Complete Guide to Happiness for Gay Men at Midlife and Beyond is the first book on aging for the gay men of the twenty-first century that are struggling through this watershed moment. With its release in January, my book mobilizes us for taking on our next crucial assignment: helping each other’s aging. There’s a role for you to make a difference, my book is filled with thirteen chapters of options on how to get involved supporting other gay men while increasing your happiness about your own aging.”
This workshop is presented at Center on Halsted 3656 N Halsted, Chicago
Thursday, May 26, 2011 – 7:00 PM – 8:30PM $5 suggested donation
Get a sneak peak online.
Registration required – call Zach Zimmerman, SAGE Special Projects Coordinator, at 773.472.6469 x 437
BestGayChicago.com
Equality Illinois Wine Tasting Benefit May 11th
$20
75 WINES!
Join EQIL and Sidetrack for Spring Wine Tasting on May 11 from 6:00 to 9:00pm!
Tickets are now available. For just $20 you have access to over 75 wines from around the world and hors d’oeuvres provided by J&L Catering!
This super-popular event caters to all palates and budgets. Plus, those who preregister will be entered into our 3 DRAWINGS FOR 4 BOTTLES OF WINE EACH!
Due to the nature of PAC fundraising, each attendee must register and pay individually. A phone number is required to complete your online registration, but will ONLY be used as an identifier at the door at Sidetrack.
GET A TICKET NOW!
The Mission of Equality Illinois is to secure, protect and defend equal rights for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people in Illinois. Come show your support!
Cocktail Bar Chicago Celebrates 15 years! And Patio Opening
The temps are on the rise and
patios across the city are opening!
There is nothing like sitting outside dining
and sipping cocktails in Chicago summer!
Cocktail introduced us to The Gardens at the end of last season, and even though we could dine in all winter, it is with great anticipation they bring back their beautiful outdoor space, in just a couple weeks!
The gardens are lined with lush green box hedges, furnished by Chicago’s own Orange Skin you will find our Jasper Morrison Furniture as comfortable as Air! Plenty of golden shaded seating under the posh cover of our distinctive Veuve Clicquot umbrellas.
Join your host geNo & the Cocktail Family as they celebrate 15 years!
The Return of the gardens! Outside Dinning.
DJ’s Freddie Bain, Uncle Milty, Sadie Woods, Psycho Bitch & Carla Starla
Plus Sexy Go Go Boys Dancing up a Storm.
Cocktail Bar and the gardens Cocktail on Facebook
bestgaychicago.com
Latin Star Elvis Crespo in Chicago April 6th-7th
International Merengue star
Elvis Crespo proudly joins
the LGBT Community in their fight against discrimination and in support of equal rights, with the “Indestructible” promotional tour.
The singer will perform songs from his latest release “Indestructible” as well as his classic hits. The tour will include shows at Gay clubs as well as the biggest LGBT Pride celebrations in the US.
“All Humans are created equal and should be entitled to the same inalienable rights, and among them are life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness, as stated in the Declaration of Independence of the United States,” said Grammy Winner Elvis.
The tour, presented by Granda Entertainment and Club Papi, will also include a Meet & Greet for his fans where they will be able to take pictures and get signed autographs.
Tour Dates:
Wed, April 6th – Chicago – Press and Media interviews throughout Chicago
Thursday, April 7th – Club Papi @ Circuit Nightclub, Chicago, IL
Then to Texas, Miami, Hollywood and more. GET TICKETS ONLINE.
Best Gay Chicago.com
New Theater Classes from Center on Halsted
PRIDE FILMS AND PLAYS
and CENTER ON HALSTED
Announce New Co-operative
Venture in LGBT Acting
and Writing Classes
New theater classes will explore LGBT issues on stage. The acting class on Mondays is for working actors regardless of their sexual orientation who are interested in exploring great same-sex scenes in LGBT literature. The class on Tuesday is for LGBT writers, performers, and community members interested in creating performance pieces that tell their own story. The classes are a part of Center on Halsted’s ActOUT program
Honesty and Authenticity in Same-Sex Scene Study
This class is for working actors of all ages and types regardless of their sexual orientation who are interested in exploring great same-sex scenes from both classic and new LGBT theater. Work for honesty and authenticity through great scenes from The Children’s Hour, Boys in the Band, Angels in America, and great contemporary scripts. The cost is $300 for an 8-week session that runs from Monday, April 18 to Monday, June 6, from 6:30 to 9 pm. The class will culminate in a free, open performance on Monday, June 13 in the Hoover-Leppen Theater at Center on Halsted. The class is taught by PFP’s Executive Director David Zak, and will have a maximum of 12 students.
Tell Your Own Story And Shape It For Performance
This class is for LGBT performers, writers, and community members who are interested in creating theatrical work meant for performance. These works could be audition-length or longer works, and could be performed by the author or another performer. Students will work on developing their own written material in their unique “voice,” and then shape it for performance. The cost is $300 for an 8-week session that runs from Tuesday, April 19 through Tuesday, June 7, from 6:30 to 9 pm. The class will culminate in a free, open performance on Monday, June 13 in the Hoover-Leppen Theater at Center on Halsted. The class is taught by PFP’s Executive Director David Zak, and will have a maximum of 14 students.
All classes are at Center on Halsted, 3656 N Halsted.
Register on line. For further information email PrideClasses @ gmail.com
BestGayChicago.com
Equality Illinois Baseball Social March 31
Join Equality Illinois and our friends at Sluggers Sports Bar on Thursday, March 31 from 6 to 9pm for a casual social to celebrate Opening Day 2011!
Come meet White Sox great Minnie Minoso (stay tuned for other names to be added!) and enjoy cocktails and the chance to win door prizes. Tickets, which include 2 complimentary cocktails and a drawing ticket are $10 at the door. Come meet some new friends and let’s celebrate the beginning of the 2011 baseball season!
EQIL 2011 Baseball Season Opening Social
Thursday, March 31 6 to 9pm
Sluggers Sports Bar 3540 N. Clark Street in Chicago
Tickets $10 at the door (2 complimentary cocktails and a drawing ticket)
Best Gay Chicago.com
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
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:
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!
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 .
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.
Best Gay Chicago.com
Cazwell and Amanda Lepore! Saturday Feb. 12th at Hydrate
comes to Chicago!
The queen and king of New Yorks nightlife scene arrive in Chicago, this weekend!
Amanda Lepore has always been the bearer of curiosities, and it’s commonly known that her parties come hand-in-hand with brusque displays of exhibitionism: all skin and sparkle, and anything less would be an insult.
Cazwell. What can we say?
Few new artists embody the spirit of downtown NYC more completely than Cazwell. A leading figure in the renaissance of New York City nightlife that has taken place over the last five years, Cazwell’s music—a ridiculously fun mix of electrified dance music and old school hip hop—is the perfect example of the new spirit of pop music. Says Caz, “When people ask me how to describe my style sometimes I say ‘Just imagine if Biggie Smalls ate Donna Summer for breakfast.’”
Hydrate and Jagermeister is proud to present …..AMANDA LEPORE AND CAZWELL, Saturday, February 12th!!!! Cazwell will be live at 10pm. and he will spin the night away! Amanda performs at Midnight. Cazwell will be spinning all night long for you until 5am!
These 2 always put on an excellent show. And these two have been collaborating for years!
Cazwell is executive producer, brainchild and songwriter behind Amanda Lepore’s upcoming debut album “I…Amanda Lepore” also due this Spring.
The album features such Caz-penned Lepore classics as “Champagne,” “My Hair Looks Fierce,” (which has already been tapped for a television theme song!) and the rambunctious pop punk ode to love “Cotton Candy.” Caz also guest stars in the “Cotton Candy” music video directed by Bec Stupak which will be Amanda’s premiere release for her album!
About being Sonny to a traninternational Cher, Caz says, “I love working on the Amanda record because she’s so interesting and has had such a crazy life. She has a very different point of view. I think that is makeup for an amazing album. I think we definitely achieved that with ‘I…Amanda Lepore’”
DON’T MISS IT!
General Admission tickets are only $15 in advance, $20 at the door. There will also be a VERY LIMITED quantity of VIP meet and greet tickets for only $25!
Hydrate 3458 North Halsted Street
Best Gay Chicago.com
