Category Archives: Community
Sarah and Rachel – Lesbian Vloggers
We recently discovered these lesbian vloggers, who have been creating YouTube content for some time now! They recently relocated to Chicago. They create new vlogs as frequently as possible, plus unscripted comedy, challenges, travel and entrepreneurship videos, and LGBT advice content. Vegetarians and devoted moms to their kitten, Mumford.
Well it looks like you moved here from Iowa? How long have you been here in Chicago?
Yeah! We moved to the city in July and have loved every minute of it so far!
What brought you here?
Besides the appeal of a vibrant city with so much energy and activity, we were attracted to the opportunities to advance our career goals. There’s such a great LGBTQ+ community here that we love and we do a lot of traveling, so it’s a great centrally located hub with a big airport! There are, of course, it’s other perks: deep dish pizza, the amazing Chicago sports teams, and tons of vegan restaurants for us to try out!
How long have you been together?
We have been together for 5 and a half years! It’s been such a crazy ride, but we’ve loved exploring the world and starting a business together. It’s so special that we get to share our relationship online to help so many other people and document the things we do together.
How long have you been doing videos?
We started making videos in March of 2015. At that time we wanted to start a channel as a way to have a creative outlet and a place to practice our cinematography and editing skills, because of our interest in film. As we started to pick up a following, we realized that we really had an opportunity to share some of the difficult experiences we’ve been through with coming out, self acceptance, etc with our audience. We began to share our stories online and have since been able to help literally thousands of people who send us messages and use our channel as a resource for similar struggles. Our videos have led us across the world to countries in Europe and the Caribbean to create travels films, vlogs and attend conventions for YouTube creators. We would love to see one of these conventions come to Chicago someday!
Besides vlogging, do you both do other work in Chicago?
We both have small part time jobs within the city, but what we spend the most of our time doing and what we love the most is our work on YouTube and other social platforms. Being in Chicago has already afforded us some opportunities to attend events and get involved locally using our videos. We’re looking forward to continuing to grow that more and more!
Check them out here!
Also check their podcast “Between The Sheets” that comes out every Wednesday on iTunes and soundcloud!
Boystown Halsted Halloween Parade 2017
Summer is over and it’s time to think about what to wear this fall?
The Annual Northalsted Halloween Parade will be here before you know it!
HAUNTED HALSTED SET TO SPOOK BOYSTOWN FOR HALLOWEEN
Haunted Halsted is the theme for this year’s Halloween. The Northalsted Business Alliance invites ghouls, goblins, zombies and all haunted beings to go above and beyond for this year’s parade theme. Thousands will line the route, while hundreds compete for who rules the street.
The legendary parade, now it its 21st year, happens Halloween night at 7:30 pm.
Kicking off from the corner of Halsted and Belmont and traveling north to Addison, the competitive costume contest will award winners in four categories: Drag, Group, Scariest and Theme. Registration is now open at https://www.northalsted.com/northalsted-halloween-parade-registration/
A host of Halloween queens will adorn the parade route, as a ‘Thriller” dance party breaks out. Fire eaters and more complete the spooky scene.
Northalsted Halloween Parade
Tuesday, October 31
5 pm- 7 pm Registration at Halsted/Belmont
7:30 pm Parade kicks-off and travels north to Addison
Free to participate
Northalsted Business Alliance Executive Director Chad Honeycutt explains what sets Halsted Halloween celebrations apart.
“Simply put, there’s no other city neighborhood that does Halloween better. This year will be no exception, we expect everyone to bring their ‘A’ game for the contest and parade.”
Day of the Dead Chicago 2017
|
|
|
Day of the Dead: Xicágo
Join the National Museum of Mexican Art for the annual Día de los Muertos Xicágo celebration on Sunday, October 29th from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Bring your friends and loved ones to celebrate Día de los Muertos as we transform the Museum and surrounding area into a beautiful work of art. To commemorate this special day, guests will enjoy face painting, art activities, ofrenda (altar) demonstrations, live musical performances, and Pan de Muerto (traditional Day of the Dead Bread). This year we are thrilled to be joined by Fernando Sic (Rimiyoho), who will create live animations projected on the Museum’s exterior.
Additionally, families and individuals are invited to participate by creating their own ofrenda (Day of the Dead altar) or sharing a photograph of a departed loved one as part of the large illuminated ofrenda. Read more about the event and how you can contribute.
|
Enjoy a spectacular fall event complete with live musical and DJ entertainment, delicious culinary treats, and cocktails, all in support of the Museum’s programs.
More details to come! But early birds can purchase tickets now and take advantage of discounted pricing.
TPAN 30th Anniversary September 28th
TPAN: 30 Years of Hope
TPAN’s 30th Anniversary and Looking Forward
TPAN (Test Positive Aware Network) will celebrate 30 years of service to Chicagoans who are living with or vulnerable to HIV and related health conditions at TPAN: 30 Years of Hope. The event will be held on Thursday, September 28, 2017 at Moonlight Studios, 1446 W. Kinzie St., in Chicago’s West Loop. The evening begins with a VIP reception from 6-7 p.m., where supporters will be able to meet some of TPAN’s founding members and renowned HIV activist Peter Staley. The general reception begins at 7 p.m. and will feature the founders and keynote speaker Staley, who is an early member of ACT UP New York. 2016 Barlesque 9 winner Rob Racine will be the emcee for the evening, with music from Marc “DJ Moose” Moder, an open bar, and hors d’oeuvres will be served. Tickets are $175 for the VIP Reception and $125 for General Admission. Tickets may be purchased online by visiting tpan.com/tickets.
Bernie Brommel, one of the first members of TPAN, recalls what it was like in 1987 when the world had very little information about HIV/AIDS. “You couldn’t go in [to the hospital] and see somebody who was sick or dying. I went to see many, many people… and we had to wear gloves and masks.” TPAN has maintained a steadfast loyalty to clients and community throughout its 30-year history. In a time when people living with HIV can be expected to live a near-normal lifespan, TPAN has a lot to celebrate. However, the battle against HIV/AIDS is far from over. On September 13, 2017, Windy City Times published a five-page account of Brommel’s experience with HIV/AIDS in the 1980s and the beginning of TPAN. Those who can recall the experience of not knowing what was happening to their community during the early years of the epidemic, as well as those too young to remember, are invited to come together at TPAN: 30 Years of Hope. The evening will truly be one of reflection, honor, and hope, while looking toward to the future of TPAN and the eradication of HIV and AIDS.
About TPAN: TPAN is a nonprofit (501c3) agency located in the Edgewater neighborhood of Chicago. TPAN serves those living with and vulnerable to HIV/AIDS and related health conditions, and is publisher of the leading national HIV treatment magazine Positively Aware.
Out in the Park Chicago 2017
Out In The Park at Six Flags Great America
Returns in 2017 for Year 6!
A Private Night in the Park to Celebrate Diversity
Presented by MINI Cooper Chicago & BestGayChicago.com
That Will Help Benefit Howard Brown Health
Saturday, September 9th, 2017 from 7:30PM to 12AM
Out In The Park is an annual private diversity fundraising event featuring unlimited riding of ALL Six Flags Great America’s amazing THRILL rides (with much shorter than usual lines! The park is only 35% full!) with a portion of all ticket sales each year help benefit various non-profits. “One of the best elements of this event is that it is closed to the general public and this year our event piggy-backs a daytime corporate buyout so our attendees will be entering an EMPTY PARK!” explains Michael Snell, co-owner of BestGayChicago.com. “The LGBTQ community, their family, friends and supporters can enjoy the park with shorter lines and without homophobic or bigotry from anyone. It’s like a Fall Pride Celebration!”
This event started in 2012, as an LGBTQ night. In 2015 there was a huge shift in the public’s opinion on Marriage Equality and Equal Rights. (Joe Biden says Will & Grace was a huge influencer for the shift in public opinion!) Friends and allies “came out of the closet” as the showing of support more than doubled. It is for this reason, we chose to change the theme to a Celebration of Diversity. People of any color, size, body type, gender, gender expression(s), and sexual orientation are all welcome. Bullies and Bigotry will not be tolerated.
It’s important to us that everyone—no matter who you are, how you identify, or where you’re from—feel comfortable and confident. Our message is simple: You are welcome here.
Singer, model, author SIR JET will do a meet and greet in the parking lot at 7pm, as we await the gates to open for the evening. Then he will perform live at 1:30am, at Charlie’s, the host of the Official After Party! 3726 N Broadway St, Chicago, IL 60613. $5 cover.
In an interview with ChicagoPride.com: “We are very excited that this private night for charity continues to grow every year and we have gifted over $40,000 to various groups,” said Derrick Sorles, Snell’s husband of 18 years and business partner,
“We are honored that some of our peers including GRAB Magazine, ChicagoPride.com as well as Our Lives Madison and QUEST Magazine in Wisconsin also help us by donating advertising space for this event! It’s truly a community event where everyone comes together for the greater good!” says Derrick Sorles.
Advance $42 tickets can be purchased NOW at www.CelebrateDiversityChicago.com
Attendees get FREE parking for this special event! September 5th the price goes up to $47.
$52 at the gate, IF AVAILABLE.
This event is capped at only 5,000 tickets, to ensure lines stay short for the rides.
Season Passes cannot be honored for special events. All ages event.
Drinks are available for purchase to those 21+
Chuck Renslow Final White Party August27
| WINDY CITY TIMES | ||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
||||||||||||
FREE TICKETS for SUPERHERO Resistance @ Aragon Aug 12
Market Days Saturday night will never be the same. After six consecutive years of sold out dance parties at House Of Blues, Circuit Mom / Matthew Harvat has moved the wildly successful Superhero themed party closer to Lakeview and into an epic venue that doubles our party’s size.
More lights, more lasers, more production, more sound and more people from around the globe to dance with.
After thirteen years, The Aragon Ballroom welcomes us back for what will become the biggest event of the year. You will not believe your eyes once you enter the space. They have tons of surprises in store for you and will welcome over 2,500 party goers to this new Market Days home.
PLUS this is the Chicago debut of DJ Grind and DJ Gauthreaux spinning together for this main event.
WHO WILL YOU COME AS????
WHO WANTS TO GO FOR FREE???
Leave a comment, any comment below with your email – your email is hidden from the public and we are not adding you to any lists. Just click READ MORE and you can leave a comment!
We will randomly draw 2 names, MONDAY Aug 7th 2 NOON. We will email the winners.
Each winning name will get one free ticket for the event!
This is going to be an amazing event, not to be missed! CircuitMom.com for ticket info
Tickets are available online now and with a new VIP option.
Visit www.circuitmom.com for all options.
People of any colour, size, body type, gender, gender expression(s), and sexual orientation are welcome. Bigotry will not be tolerated. Must be 21+ to attend.
Northalsted Market Days 2017
Prince Poppycock
Northalsted Market Days Brings Bevy of Entertainment Options
The Northalsted Business Alliance brings a bevy of entertainment options to this year’s Market Days, set for August 12 and 13. The Boystown bash, known for its five stages of entertainment, features a veritable bazaar of shopping and food options in addition to the live music.
The sheer diversity in entertainment guarantees there’s something for everyone to enjoy. From national headliners like Jody Watley to local favorites, from cabaret style singers to funk and beyond, Market Days delivers on its reputation as a must-do fest in the Midwest.
Northalsted Business Alliance Executive Director Chad Honeycutt expands on the appeal of the festival. “To host one of the biggest and longest running festivals in Chicago in such a vibrant neighborhood, naturally draws people from all over the city, state, country and beyond. It’s truly a welcoming and wonderful weekend to experience a fantastic array of music and enjoy the area and all of our offerings.”
Northalsted Market Days/Saturday, Aug 12th
North Stage
1:30P-3:30PM Drag Show
345P-4:30PM Prince Poppycock
4:45PM-5:30PM Inaya Day
5:40PM-7:30PM Drag Show
7:45PM-8:30PM Linda Clifford
845P-930PM Jody Watley
Jody Watley
Steve Grand
7-11 Stage
1PM-2PM DJ
2PM-2:45PM Steve Grand
2:45PM-3:15PM DJ
3:15P-4PM TIFFANY
4PM-445PM DJ
445P-5:30PM Brian Justin Crumb
5:30-7PM DJ
7PM-7:45PM ROBYN S
7:45-9PM DJ
9PM-945PM Maxine Nightingale
Maxine Nightengale
Belmont Stage
2PM-3PM KC Ortiz
3PM-3:30PM DJ
3:30P-5PM Michael McBride & Friends
Michael McBride
5PM-5:30PM DJ
5:30P-7PM Wedding Banned
7PM-7:45PM DJ
745PM-945PM Satisfaction
Jazz Stage (Aldine)
130PM-3PM Joe Policastro Trio
330PM-5PM Whiskey & Cherries
530PM-730PM BMR4
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
NORTHALSTED MARKETDAYS 2017/Sunday, Aug 13th
Big Freedia
North Stage
115P-3PM Drag Show
3:15-4PM BIG FREEDIA
4-6PM Drag Show
615P-755PM Rod Tuffcurls
8PM-8:30PM DJ
835P-955PM Purple Xperience
Belmont Stage
130P-230PM Girl Power Night
2:30-3:15PM DJ
3:15PM-4PM Cece Peniston
Frenchie Davis
4:15-5PM Frenchie Davis
5-6PM DJ
6P-7:30PM Boy Band Review
7:30-8:15PM DJ
815PM-9:45PM Catfight
7-11 Stage
1:15PM-2PM Chicago Gay Men’s Chorus
2:15P-3:30PM Don’t Speak
3:30PM-4PM DJ X-Tasy
4P-515PMJC Brooks & the Uptown Sound
5:15PM-6PM DJ X-Tasy
6PM-720PM 10,000 Maniacs
7:20PM-7:50PM DJ X-Tasy
7:50P-9:50PM 16 Candles
Jazz Stage (Aldine)
130PM-3PM The Winchester Sound
330PM-5PM The Flat cats
About the Northalsted Business Alliance (NBA)
Formed in 1980, NBA represents more than 100 businesses along the Halsted Street corridor. The organization hosts major events throughout the year including Chicago Pride Fest, Pride Prom Northalsted Market Days, the Halloween Parade, Frost Fest and the Legacy Live Series. For information about NBA visit www.northalsted.com.
SUPERHERO Chicago Markets Days Event Aug. 10
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Chicago’s Chuck Renslow Passed, 87
Pioneering Chicago Gay Activist and Leather Community Leader Chuck Renslow Passes Away At 87
It’s with a sad heart that we must report that Chuck Renslow, the pioneering gay activist who opened the first gay leather bar in the country, the Gold Coast in 1958, has passed away at the age of 87.
Mr. Renslow was the founder and photographer of Kris Studios, one of the earliest and most durable of the physique houses ( and one where leather always had a place ) He was the publisher of Triumph, Mars and Rawhide Male magazines. He was a founder of Second City Motorcycle Club, the first club in the midwest in 1965.
He was among the earliest members, often among the founders, of many gay liberation organizations and movements. He was the publisher of GayLife Newspaper and has sat on the Board of fourteen different GLBT organizations. He was also the founder of many gay bars and sex clubs including Man’s Country, which has survived for more than 30 years.
He is the founder, in of the International Mr. Leather, which meets yearly in Chicago and was inducted into Chicago’s Lesbian and Gay Hall of Fame in 1991.
At the Leather Archives & Museum’s September 2016 Board of Directors meeting Chuck was elected “Chairperson of the Board” of the world famous museum that he himself founded.
Specific details of his passing have not been released as of yet.
Venezuela Benefit July 5th Uptown Underground
Verbena for Venezuela’s Freedom
Wednesday July 5th @ 8pm General Admission $20
Verbena for Venezuela’s Freedom is a benefit for UCV First Aids in Venezuela (Organization that provides medicine and treatment to the people affected by the violent protests against the government). Venezuela has been under the same government for over 18 years and the people are asking for a change. 100% of the ticket sales from this event will be donated to UCV First Aids in Venezuela
Venezuela is a country know for its diversity, get ready to be immersed in a bowl of different tastes, cultures and rhythms as pole dancers, queens, and a bevvy of beautiful burlesque and BOYlesque performers make you dance, scream and LIVE your LIFE!
The line up includes:
Kat Sass
Lady Jack
Bazuka Joe
Camille Leon
Lucky Bucky
Miss B La Rose
The Vixen
Willy LaQueue
Dizzy Lizzy
Switch
Coco Sho-Nell
Gaea Lady
Anghell from Venezuela!
PLEASE SUPPORT THIS EVENT!~ TICKETS HERE!
OUT IN THE PARK Volunteer Event June 13
HEY EVERYONE! This is year 6 for OUT IN THE PARK @ Six Flags Great America.
Every summer we NEED VOLUNTEERS! Anyone interested should join this page.
we will have our first meeting at Charlies in Boystown, Tuesday June 13th at 6:30 pm.
We will provide some pizzas and couple drinks for those who can make it.
There are many different ways to help.
And you can earn FREE TICKETS to the event and other cool stuff.
Each year, a portion of money for the ticket goes to a different charity.
This year HOWARD BROWN HEALTH will benefit!
Chicago Pride Fest 2017
Chicago Pride Fest. Taylor Dayne, Thelma Houston, Kristine W. and many more are ready to take over the Chicago Pride Fest stage June 17-18! Held during National Pride Month, celebrates our achievements as a community in our annual two-day street festival leading up to Chicago’s world famous Pride Parade.
The non-stop entertainment features strings, queens and everything in-between.
Two main stages deliver a host of national and local talent. Well Strung brings the strings with their fuse of classic music meets pop blend, while Taylor Dayne delivers her iconic hits and local legends 16 Candles go retro. The DJ stage at Waveland pumps with dance ready beats, while the best divas in the business strut their stuff on the Kit Kat Runway.
Chicago Pride Fest (June 17-18)
11 am – 10 pm North Halsted from Addison to Grace $10 Suggested Donation
| Saturday, June 17 | ||
| North Stage | ||
| 12:30PM | Drag Show | |
| 2:30PM | Thelma Houston | |
| 3:30PM | Drag Show | |
| 5:30PM | Vassy | |
| 6:00PM | Drag Show | |
| 7:30PM | David Hernandez |
|
| 8:30PM | Taylor Dayne | |
| South Stage | ||
| 1:00PM | Gay Men’s Chorus | |
| 2:00PM | Catfight | |
| 4:00PM | One Night Band | |
| 6:00PM | Girl Power Band | |
| 8:00PM | Boy Band Review | |
| Sunday, June 18 | ||
| North Stage | ||
| 12:00PM | Pet Parade | |
| 12:30PM | Drag Show | |
| 2:30PM | Carlito Olivero |
|
| 3:30PM | Drag Show | |
| 5:30PM | Well Strung |
|
| 6:30PM | Pride Talent Show | |
| 8:00PM | Symon | |
| 8:30PM | Kristine W. | |
| South Stage | ||
| 1:00PM | Pet Parade | |
| 1:30PM | 2 the 9s | |
| 3:30PM | Rod Tuffcurls | |
| 6:00PM | Abba Salute |
|
| 7:30PM | 16 Candles | |
About the Northalsted Business Alliance (NBA)
Formed in 1980, NBA represents more than 100 businesses along the Halsted Street corridor. The organization hosts major events throughout the year including Chicago Pride Fest, Pride Prom Northalsted Market Days, the Halloween Parade, Frost Fest and the Legacy Live Series. For information about NBA visit www.northalsted.com.
Chicago Red Dress Party April 22
HURRY! Save 15% on all tickets.
Use Promo Code Red2017 at checkout.
Ends March 31th, 2017.
CHICAGO RED DRESS PARTY will be Saturday, April 22, 2017!
The Chicago Red Dress Party is dedicated to creating awareness and visibility for the HIV/AIDS movement and raising funds for organizations that provide vital community services and to build a strong, unified LGBT and allied community.
The only rule: all attendees MUST WEAR RED to honor the spirit of the “Red Dress” (Guys are allowed to wear Red Shirts or Red Pants)
The VIP Party starts at 7:30 PM, with a Special Performance at 8:30pm. At the end of the night VIP’s don’t forget to pick up your Goodie Bags!
The Main Event will start at 9:00pm, with DJ Ryan Bejlovec, over a 3 dozen Silent Auction Items, The Host of the Night Miss Foozie, line up of entertainment feature Boylseque with Ben D Mann, Alexis Hex and a SPECIAL performance that is to big to announce!
Remember… You MUST wear a red dress/skirt/kilt/toga/
Tickets Prices: General Admission $45
VIP Admission (includes entry to VIP Party & Main Event) $65
Tickets can be purchased the day of the event at the door.
Pre Order tickets NOW::
https://
Chicago Red Dress Party is under a New Founder and New Board of Directors. 100% of the proceeds goes towards local non for profit organizations in Chicago that help those affected with HIV/AIDS.
Howard Brown Health Celebrates Womens Health
Howard Brown Health Celebrates Women’s Health at Garden of Eve: Forward
Music, Dancing, Specialty Cocktails, Food and More Will Benefit Howard Brown Health
Howard Brown Health invites Chicago’s LGBTQ women and allies to join together to celebrate queer and lesbian women’s sexual and reproductive health at Garden of Eve: Forward, taking place on Friday, April 28 from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Venue SIX10.
Partygoers will enjoy delicious food, cocktails, photo booth, silent auction, raffle, a very special night of dancing to music spun by DJ Slo ‘Mo, and other wonderful surprises!
Funds raised at Garden of Eve: Forward will enable Howard Brown Health to continue providing clinical, behavioral health, and community health services, which include gynecological care, alternative insemination, breast and cervical cancer screening, HIV and STI testing, and prevention and wellness education for the LGBTQ community.
WHEN: Friday, April 28, 2017 from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.
WHERE: 610 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago, IL.
TICKETS: Early Bird: $75 per person (limited time offer)
General Admission: $100 per person
(at door $150) VIP: $200
For more information and to reserve tickets, visit www.howardbrown.org.
Founded in 1974, Howard Brown Health serves more than 18,000 adults and youth each year in its diverse health and social service delivery system focused around four major programmatic divisions: clinical care, research, education and advocacy. Howard Brown Health is also one of the nation’s largest lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender organizations. To learn more, visit www.howardbrown.org.
Howard Brown Health provides affirming, sliding-scale healthcare to all LGBTQ women and allies, including breast / chest cancer screenings, contraceptive management, alternative insemination, transgender healthcare and more.
Northalsted Boystown Beer Fest Feb 25 26
Northalsted’s winter street festival takes place in our huge outdoor HEATED tent.
Featuring over 40 craft beers you will have the opportunity to sample your choice of 15 beers while dancing at this unique party!
2 different sessions are available.
For more information please visit:
www.northalsted.com/events/frost-fest/
The frosty fun continues on Sunday, February 26th at our 4th Annual Soup Walk presented by the Northalsted Business Alliance and the Lakeview East Chamber of Commerce.
Taste great soups, from all over the area!
From Chicago to Mexico…
OFFICIAL FILM TRAILER RELEASED for “EN ALGUN LUGAR”
The official video trailer has been released by Iconoclast for the motion picture “En Algun Lugar” (A Place to Be), which stars Nelson Rodriguez (Pride Films and Plays, Easy Abby) as Abel, and Andrew Saenz (Chicago PD, Sirens) as Diego, and written and directed by award winning filmmaker Tadeo Garcia (On the Downlow, Under Covers).
“En Algun Lugar” follows the relationship between Abel & Diego, from Chicago to Mexico.
When tragedy strikes and Diego’s undocumented immigration status is revealed, their love and sacrifice is put to the test through uncertain times that will affect their relationship. Set against the foundation of a broken U.S. immigration system, “En Algun Lugar” sheds light on the mantra of love overcomes all and love knows no borders.
Alongside Nelson Rodriguez and Andrew Saenz the cast includes Jessie Prez as Braulio, Ian Tranberg as Stephen, Sandra Marquez as Lilly, Charin Alvarez as Rita and Erica Cruz Hernandez as Carolina. Other cast include J.J. Romero, Caitlin Jackson, Blaine Thomas Childers, Enrique Guzman, Juan Martinez, Artemio Gonzalez, Carolyn Hoerdemann, Mickey O’Sullivan, Nick Mikula, Zach Livingston, Will Clinger, Diego Sanchez, Michael J. Sanow, Ayssette Munoz, Chris Acevedo, Matt Nikkila, Carmen Cenko, Daniel Hansen, Cole Reed, Frank Menolascino, Davon Suttles, Jon Jackson, Alex Knoll, Mike Hynek, Richard Cotovsky, Rudy Galvan, Diego Colon, Lane Flores, Cole McMillan and Caitlin Boho.
Tadeo Garcia’s provocative and intimate tale of love and fear of the unknown comes to life in a never before seen cinematic perspective produced by Aric S. Jackson (www.aricjackson.com) and Michael J. Sanow (Under Covers, Blood Brothers). Featuring the people, culture, dynamic geography and architecture of both Jalpa, Zacatecas; MEX and Chicago, Illinois; USA, the wonder of Tadeo Garcia’s story has captivated those involved both in front and behind the camera. The producers stress this would not be possible without the talents of cinematographer Charlie Garcia, production designer Pablo Ponce, casting director Stephanie Diaz, costume designer Freddy Rocha, makeup artists Lilien Harvey and Ruby Ortiz, and music from Los Pecados and The Pinto Bean.
The producers of the film also announce the release of “behind-the-scenes” photos and video clips via the film’s official website at www.enalgunlugarmovie.com and its social media profiles (Facebook, Twitter and Instagram) showing the cast and crew during the production of “En Algun Lugar.”
En Algun Lugar aims for a mid-2017 release.
The new trailer can be viewed at www.enalgunlugarmovie.com/trailer .
Equality Gala Feb. 4th 2017
THE MIDWEST’S LARGEST LGBTQ GALA and FUNDRAISER
SUPPORTS THE WORK OF EQUALITY ILLINOIS
Saturday, February 4, 2017
Hilton Chicago Hotel, 720 South Michigan Ave.
The Equality Illinois 2017 Gala on February 4, 2017 is a celebratory winter-fest of the accomplishments that advanced LGBTQ rights over the last year and a gathering of forces for the challenges that remain in our fight for full equality for all Illinoisans.
This is a formal evening with a cocktail reception and silent auction at 6:00pm,
a sit-down dinner and speaking program at 8:00pm,
and dancing and live music beginning at 10:00pm.
HONOREES THIS YEAR:
The Equality Illinois Freedom Award to Mona Noriega and Terry Cosgrove
Tickets and Tables HERE.
Art Aids America Chicago
More than a groundbreaking visual art exhibition, Art AIDS America Chicago will serve as the catalyst for a citywide dialogue on the cultural impact of HIV/AIDS through robust public programming at the newly constructed Alphawood Gallery (2401 N. Halsted Street) and via a constellation of related events presented in association with local arts and advocacy community allies.
Art AIDS America Chicago opens at the Alphawood Gallery on World AIDS Day, Thursday, December 1, 2016, and continues through Sunday, April 2, 2017. Admission to the exhibition and all programming held at the Gallery– artist & expert talks, panel discussions, performances, gallery tours, and HIV testing — are free and open to the public.
LOTS AND LOTS OF PROGRAMMING GOING ON FOR THIS – CHECK OUT THE SITE!
“Art AIDS America tells a story of struggle, pain, loss, and, ultimately, hope. It’s about the power of art to help us overcome insurmountable odds,” said Christopher Audain, program officer at Alphawood Foundation. Audain, who is working on programming and events for the exhibition, continued, “To help us tell this story, and to broaden the impact and access of this great work, we have joined with organizations and individuals from across the city who have eagerly embraced this project. Our joint programming provides a space for the multitude of people impacted by HIV/AIDS—across intersections of race, sexuality, gender, age, and artistic disciplines—to tell their story, particularly those we don’t often hear, from their own voice. We want to spark conversations that don’t happen nearly enough about how this disease has affected each of us in immeasurable ways. We know that artists, activists, and advocates standing together can create real change.”
About Art AIDS America
This is the first exhibition to explore how the AIDS crisis forever changed American art. Since the first reports of mysterious illnesses in the early 1980s, HIV and AIDS have touched nearly every American in some way, and operated as an undeniable, though often unacknowledged, force in shaping politics, medicine, culture and society. While acknowledging and honoring the enormous anger, loss and grief generated by the epidemic, the exhibition refutes the narrative that AIDS is only a tragic tangent in American art. Instead, Art AIDS America offers a story of resilience and beauty revealed through the visual arts, and of the communities that gathered to bring hope and change in the face of a devastating disease.
Art AIDS America Chicago is the local – and largest – iteration of this groundbreaking national exhibition which underscores the deep and unforgettable presence of HIV in American art. The exhibition will feature some 140+ significant contemporary works on display at the Alphawood Gallery, a temporary space created in a former bank by the Alphawood Foundation to bring the exhibition to its only Midwest venue. The Alphawood Foundation, a Chicago-based, grant-making private foundation working for an equitable, just and humane society, is proudly presenting Art AIDS America here. Each year the Foundation awards grants to organizations, primarily in the areas of advocacy, architecture and preservation, the arts and arts education, promotion and protection of the rights of LGBT citizens and people living with HIV/AIDS, and other human and civil rights.
Experience Barefoot Walking!
