Category Archives: Community
AIDS Run Walk Chicago Sept 23rd
2018 AIDS Run & Walk Chicago Encourages Community to “Live True. Be You.”
On Sunday, Sept. 23, HIV advocates from across Chicago will live true at the 2018 AIDS Run & Walk Chicago. Held at Soldier Field, the 17th annual event will raise awareness and funds for the AIDS Foundation of Chicago (AFC) and 34 CommunityDirect partners, with proceeds benefiting programs and services improving the lives of Chicagoans living with and vulnerable to HIV.
Approximately, 2,500 participants gathered last year to participate in one of the city’s most vibrant annual runs and walks. This year’s event will mobilize the community under the theme “Live true. Be you.”
“When individuals live authentically and are encouraged to share their truth and stories, it fosters a sense of community, understanding and acceptance,” explains Dustin Erikstrup, AFC’s Senior Manager of Special Events. “In this unpredictable political climate, it is important to live openly, unapologetically and free from stigma. AIDS Run & Walk Chicago provides that safe place for participants to express themselves freely.”
AFC isn’t the only beneficiary of this event; 34 community organizations serving Chicago’s South, West and North sides, as well as surrounding counties, are beneficiaries of the funds raised at AIDS Run & Walk Chicago as part of the CommunityDirect program. To kick off the race’s fundraising efforts, each participating organization will be entering their own team into the 5K walk or the 5K and 10K runs. Many CommunityDirect partners have been a part of AIDS Run & Walk Chicago for a number of years, which provides many opportunities for organizations to participate.
Recently, AFC, the Illinois Department of Public Health, the Chicago Department of Public Health, and other statewide partners launched the planning phase for the Getting to Zero Illinois (GTZ-IL) campaign. The goal of this state-wide joint initiative is to end the HIV epidemic in Illinois by 2030 through partnerships with community-based organizations, health care providers, local government agencies and local members of the Illinois’ HIV community. If Illinois increases current rates of PrEP (a daily prevention pill that is up to 99 percent effective when taken consistently and correctly) and HIV treatment substantially, Illinois can reach fewer than 100 new HIV cases per year. The epidemic will then be unable to sustain itself, reaching, “functional zero.”
Approximately 43,500 Illinoisans are living with HIV, and AIDS Run & Walk Chicago provides the perfect opportunity to raise money to support those in the community and help end the stigma around HIV.
Since its 2001 acquisition by the AIDS Foundation of Chicago, the event has netted more than $5 million to battle the epidemic. For more information or to participate, visitaidsrunwalk.org or call 312-334-0946.
The pre-registration deadline is just a few weeks away!
Private Night at Six Flags Sept. 8th
Out In The Park at Six Flags Great America
Returns in 2018 for Year 7!
A Private Night in the Park to Celebrate Diversity
Presented by Toyota & BestGayChicago.com
That Will Help Benefit Lakeside pride Music Ensemble
Saturday, September 8th, 2018 from 7:30PM to 12AM
Out In The Park is an annual private diversity 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 helping to benefit various non-profits.
For 2018, it will benefit LAKESIDE PRIDE MUSIC ENSEMBLE! “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!”
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, songwriter, producer and DJ ADAM JOSEPH will be playing his music in JB’s bar for 2 hours at the event. Then he play again from 1am – 3am at CHARLIE’S, the Official After Party in Boystown. (Charlies will also be offering a limited number of bus seats to and from the park – details soon!
“We are honored that some of our peers including GRAB Magazine, ChicagoPride.com 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 $43 tickets can be purchased NOW HERE
Attendees get FREE parking for this special event!
September 1st the price goes up to $48.
$53 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+
Free Hiv Test June 27th
Greater Than AIDS has partnered with Walgreens and the Howard Brown Health Clinic to provide free, confidential HIV testing at the Boystown Walgreens (Broadway & Waveland) Wednesday, June 27th, from 10:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m.
Members from the clinic will be on site at Walgreens in private rooms administering tests, providing results, answering questions, and providing counseling on prevention, early treatment, and PrEP – no appointment needed.
National HIV Testing Day will provide free HIV tests in 180 cities this year, including 22 Walgreens locations in Chicago.
Greater Than AIDS is a leading public information response to the U.S. domestic HIV/AIDS epidemic with a focus on areas and people most affected.
Emphasizing hope, unity and personal empowerment, Greater Than AIDS is about what is possible when we come together. Whether HIV negative or positive, we all have a role to play in ending HIV/AIDS.
PRIDE DAY at El Mariachi and Revolucion!
EL MARIACHI has been a supporter of the LGBTQ community since forever!
“Established in 1996, a father and his 2 sons opened a small 10-table restaurant in the East Lakeview community and gradually grew over the years by following a strict policy of only serving top quality, authentic dishes and the best margaritas in town.”
Celebrate all weekend at one of their 2 great restaurants!
El Mariachi Tequila Bar & Grill
Phone: 773.549.2932 / 3906 N. Broadway
Website: http://www.
Revolucion Mexican Steakhouse
Phone: 661.9893 / 3443 N. Broadway
Website: http://www.
Undocumented and QUEER April 24th
Join us as we showcase the struggles and activism of undocumented queer people in this age of uncertainty. Delve into the history of the fight for immigrant rights in Chicago’s LGBTQ community. Take a closer look at the gripping stories, legal avenues, and layered past of undocumented queer persons in this lively panel discussion with immigration and queer activist Egle Malinauskaite, organizer and scholar Tania Unzueta Carrasco ofMijente, Antonio Gutierrez of Community Activism Law Alliance – CALA and LGBTQ immigration attorney Michael Jarecki.
Now in its fifteenth year, the Museum’s popular and provocative series delves into the storied history of Chicago’s LGBTQ communities. This season, join us as we explore the connections between activism of the past and today and how calls to action propel cultural disruption.
Schedule:
5:30 p.m. Reception with refreshments and appetizers
6:30 p.m. Program begins
-Introduction by Nancy Villafranca, CHM Elizabeth F. Cheney
Director of Education
-Two audio recordings from the Immigrant Youth Justice League
(IYJL)
-Panel discussion, Q&A to follow
8:00 p.m. Program concludes
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
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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.
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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
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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.
SUPERHERO Chicago Markets Days Event Aug. 10
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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.