Category Archives: News and Happenings
Chicago Jazz Musician Justin Hayford at Davenports Benefit Jan 20 and 27th
Chicago Jazz Musician Justin Hayford Plays Gershwin at Davenport’s
Fourth annual benefit for AIDS Legal Council of Chicago
On January 20th and 27that
7pm, Chicago musician Justin Hayford will host “The Gershwins in Love,”
evening of classic Gershwin love songs—from the sublime to the
ridiculous. This is the fourth annual benefit for AIDS Legal Council of
Chicago (“ALCC”) at Davenport’s Piano Bar in Wicker Park. Hayford, who
just released his fourth studio album on December 1, will treat
attendees to well-loved Gershwin hits like I’ve Got a Crush on You, ’Swonderful, Let’s Call the Whole Thing Off, They All Laughed, and Someone to Watch Over Me. Fans should also be prepared for a few rarities that few have ever heard. Hayford has been called “a superb talent” by the Chicago Tribune and a “hip piano-playing saloon singer who should be heard more often” by Rex Reed.
All
proceeds raised from “The Gershwins in Love” shows go directly to AIDS
Legal Council of Chicago. Attendees simply pay whatever they like at
the end of the show.
Reservations can be made online at davenportspianobar.com or by phone at 773-278-1830.
Founded in 1987, AIDS Legal Council of Chicago works to preserve,
promote, and protect the legal rights of men, women, children, and
families in the metropolitan Chicago area impacted by HIV
and
AIDS. The Council provides free direct legal services to people in
need, educates the public about HIV-related legal issues, and advocates
for social policies that ensure fair treatment for all people affected by HIV and AIDS.
Chicago House, Willis Tower and Absolute Wrapture Jan 24th
Chicago House & Co-Chairs Dennis Remer, Sean Kotwa, David Kaufman,Tom Segal, Christopher Hubbard & Sean Ward invite you to enjoy a fresh new fusion of one-of-a-kind artwork up for auction and windy city views alongside the premiere of a tasty new tune from Absolut!
Thursday, January 24th
Willis Tower Skydeck 99th Floor
233 South Franklin (Building’s East Lobby Entrance)
5PM: VIP Early Arrival
6PM-9PM: General Guest Arrival
LIMITED VIP TICKET 50% Sold Out: $150, includes EARLY ARRIVAL at 5PM, a commemorative visit and photo opportunity on The Ledge, plus a VIP swag bag of treats from Garrett Popcorn, Kiehl’s, Teuscher Chocolates of Switzerland, and much more!
GENERAL TICKET: $99
New In 2013!
Expedited Entry through Willis Tower’s multiple passenger elevators!
Early arrival for VIP’s!
Paperless auction with cellular bidding!
More unique artwork!
NEW year, NEW tune, SAME great cause
Chad Michaels Comes to HYDRATE Jan 19th
Chad Michaels’ career as one of the world’s
premier Cher Impersonators now spans two decades of acclaim and
celebration! Chad has been granted the opportunity to collaborate with
and entertain for Industry favorites such as David Foster, Bruce
Roberts, Elton John, Christina Aguilera, Cyndi Lauper, Gene Simmons,
RuPaul, and even the Diva Herself, Cher. For Chad Michaels, the “Beat
Goes On”!
Chad placed 3rd on Ru Pauls Drag Race Season 4, but came back for the ALL STARS and took the crown as WINNER!
Hydrate Presents Rupaul Drag Race AllStars Champion Chad Michaels
Hydrate is proud to present Chad Michaels for two special performances at 11 PM and 1 AM.
She is joined by Rupaul Drag Race Season 4 star DiDa Ritz.
Limited number of meet and greets are available for $25, which includes a complimentary cocktail.
Stay and dance till 5 AM with the sounds of DJR
Hydrate Nightclub Chicago | 3458 N Halsted Street in Chicago, IL 60657
Historical Chicago Walking Tours with Broughton Hotels and Tour Guide Sawyer
My name is Sawyer, like Tom Sawyer and Huckleberry Finn. I’ve been
guiding individuals, middle school and high school groups, and senior
citizens for over two years.
I’m a midwestern boy with a love for our
region’s natural beauty, farmers markets, craft beers, small-batch
coffee roasters, antique shopping, thrift stores, vintage fashion, and
boutiques. I spend my free time studying Chicago’s rich history and
architecture, without which, Al Capone would never have been able to
host his most important clients and friends at the infamous Stratosphere
lounge in the crown of the Jeweler’s Building on the Chicago River. I
hope to see you on my next tour!
From JANUARY 7 – FEBRUARY 23, Join Sawyer (The Friendly Greeter!) and Broughton Hotels, on one of three historical walking tours and shop-alongs that take you off the beaten path in Chicago’s Loop, River North and East Lakeview Area’s. – I don’t care how long you have lived here! These tours are sure to show you new things. These are great tours for friends visiting and/or locals wanting to learn more about Chicago!
Majestic-chicago.com/chicago-hotel-deals Chicagocitysuites. com/packages Willowshotelchicago.com/ packages
Breaking News! Illinois Senate PASSES Marriage Equality
We’re getting there!!!With your help, the first legislative step has succeeded. The Senate Executive Committee just voted for the freedom to marry!
This is a historic moment: For the first time ever, an
Illinois legislative body took a vote on extending the freedom to
marry. And thanks to the work that all of you have done, the measure
won!
the House of Representatives.
with your Senator to make sure that a “yes” vote is recorded.
If you haven’t already, please call or email your legislators today. If you need contact information, click HERE.
Illinois
Senate Democrats delayed a floor vote Thursday on legislation to make
the state the 10th in the nation to legalize gay marriage, but the sponsor expressed confidence there would be enough votes to pass it soon.
Sen. Heather Steans said two supportive Democrats and a Republican
weren’t present for the General Assembly’s lame-duck session, forcing
her to pull back from pressing the issue that had momentum from the
November elections and public encouragement from President Barack Obama.
But Steans, a Chicago Democrat, said the delay would only
push a vote into next week or, at the latest, soon after the new
Legislature is sworn in Jan. 9.
“This is definitely a question of when, not if,” Steans said. “This is the right thing to be doing.”
Beautiful Thing in Chicago Jan 17-Feb 17
A 20th Anniversary Production of Jonathan Harvey’s Acclaimed
Beautiful Thing
January 17 – February 17, 2013
at the Athenaeum Theatre
Beautiful Thing, is theheartwarming story of two teenaged boys coming to terms with their sexuality. Director John Nasca directs a cast that includes PFP Artistic Ensemble Members Michelle McKenzie-Voigt and Patrick Rybarczyk as Sandra and Tony, with Robert Hilliard as Jamie, Charlie Wein as Ste, and Kiah McKirnan as Leah.
Jamie,
a boy who skips school to avoid playing sports, is attracted to his
next-door neighbor Ste, an athletic teen who is regularly beaten by his
father and brothers. One night, Jamie’s mother Sandra offers Ste refuge
from his abusive family, setting off a chain of events that changes
their lives forever. Set in a working-class area of southeast London, Beautiful Thing illustrates the struggle of growing up in a world that can be cruel and unforgiving to anyone perceived as different.
Written in 1993, Beautiful Thing was
initially produced by The Bush Theatre, London, England. It received
its American premiere in 1998 by Famous Door Theatre Company in Chicago
and then transferred to New York in 1999 at the Cherry Lane Theatre. “As 2013 marks the 20th anniversary of Beautiful Thing and
with bullying issues still very much a part of today’s headlines, this
is the perfect time to revisit this play, which feels more relevant than
ever,” says director John Nasca.
Curtain Times Thursday through Saturday at 7:30 p.m.,
Sunday at 2:00 p.m.
Prices
$15 for Previews, $23 on Thursdays and Sundays, and
$25 on Fridays and Saturdays.
Tickets 773-935-6875 or www.athenaeumtheatre.org
Athenaeum Theatre, 2936 N. Southport Avenue, Chicago.
Jesse Tyler Ferguson and Prez Obama Push for Illinois Gay Marriage
President Obama
has waded into a same-sex marriage debate in his home state of Illinois
– with the White House saying the president would vote for the measure
if he were still in the legislature.
considered by state legislatures, he believes in treating everyone
fairly and equally, with dignity and respect,” White House spokesman
Shin Inouye told the Chicago Sun-Times on Saturday.
couples who are in loving, committed relationships, and want to marry,
from doing so,” Inouye continued. “Were the President still in the
Illinois State Legislature, he would support this measure that would
treat all Illinois couples equally.”
Freedom and Marriage Fairness Act,” as early as this week, the Sun-Times
reported.
Boystown and Gay-borhood Happenings New Year’s Eve Chicago 2012
“What Are You Doing New Year’s Eve?”
Undisputedly, no other holiday evening offers more event happening choices than New Year’s Eve! Whether you’re a lover or a hater or just indifferent, fact is New Year’s Eve returns every December 31st.
For Michael and I, unlike Thanksgiving and Christmas, our choices of who and where we spend New Year’s Eve with is not based on traditions (other than consuming an exorbitant amount of alcohol), but instead, what were going to do that night to celebrate is based on random criteria each year.
Today, we are still uncommitted to where exactly you’ll find us throughout the night, but we have narrowed or choices and want to share our recommended options with you (below list in alphabetical order).
Bonjonos Pizzeria: Sometimes the best New Year’s Eve simply requires having an amazing thin crust pizza and some buffalo wings, and staying in to watch the ball drop! Our favorite in Chicago, delivered to your doorstop and you can wash your edible indulgence down with plenty of your favorite elixir(s) of choice while ringing in the New Year.
Bonjono’s Pizza opened in 1996 at 4185 North Clarendon and Buena Avenue with a plan to make the best pizza, pasta and sandwiches in the neighborhood. The idea was to make everything as fresh as possible, crusts made by hand on site daily, sausage, pasta sauces, salad dressings and soup are also made from scratch. Owner Craig says “We think our customers appreciate our extra efforts and while not all menu items can be made in house, you can be assured that we only buy top quality ingredients and add our own special touches to them.”
Trust us as loyal customers of 13 years, they’ve stayed true to their original plan since opening. Our standing order with Bonjono’s is: a large, thin crust Margherita pizza with fresh tomato, basil and grilled chicken added with a couple side orders of buffalo wings with both ranch and blue cheese dressing sides-delicious! HEAVEN!
Bojono’s Pizzeria 4185 North Clarendon 773.404.9700
Delivery: from Bryn Mawr to Webster; from the lake west to Ashland.
Open daily from 11:00 AM until 10:00 PM
last pizza order 9:45, last delivery order 9:45
Cocktail
3359 North Halsted Street. Cocktail is one of the sexiest, most inviting, playful upscale bars and restaurants on the Boystown strip, less any attitude! Cocktail’s two gorgeous bars feature black crystal chandeliers, onyx-lit bar tops and pay homage to our favorite French Champagne, Veuve Clicquot Ponsardin’s Brut Yellow Label available by the glass or a full or 1/2 bottle everyday!
Cocktail is the perfect place to sip sinful libations, especially near the front window to enjoy all the familiar and friendly faces passing by Halsted and Roscoe, enjoy great food and converse with friends old and new, or groove to the DJ’s beats while drooling over their world-class go-go boys bumping and grinding!
As you can see on New Year’s Eve at Cocktail expect doors open at 7pm with Hostess Cyon Flare, sexy sounds of REDUX, champagne toast at midnight and of course sexy go-go boys dancing up a storm!
Downtown Bar – 440 S. State Street. We’re so glad this place re-opened. Once the Gentry, then a straight bar for a short time, Downtown Bar and Lounge is now here to stay! I love the layout , because there nooks and crannies and want private space with somesome or you can join the gang downstairs or up at the big bar. Brian has recently done remodeling and repainting to create even more lounge spaces.
$6 stoli cocktails all night and NO COVER.
elixir Lounge 3452 North Halsted Street. For someone who “less is more” when it comes to sports bars, it was so refreshing to learn that when Elixir opened it was not a sports bar!!!
More and more, Michael and I actually prefer to go into and enjoy a place with no TV’s at all! When were out and about town were looking to get caught up with friends and make new ones. Not watch TV. Nothing more annoying than music too loud or so many TV’s its a struggle to talk to the person next to you.
I would definitely describe Elixir as upscale and friendly, the kind of place were proud to take our parents visiting us this week and sit and visit over a nice stiff cocktail! Be prepared, their specialty cocktail list, along with prohibition era classics, might put a little hair on Mama’s chest New Year’s Eve at elixir Lounge we think is a great deal (they would definitely lose money on us) $50 is all that is asked for an open Premium bar and light hor d’oeuvres from 10pm -1am. As you can imagine, it is an extremely smaller space than many, so tickets very limited, not a bad thing at all, so contact an elixir staff member and get your ticket!
HYDRATE – 3458 North Halsted Street. NYE 2013 at Hydrate! PREMIUM OPEN BAR!The Ultimate NYE Dance Party is here!
Don’t delay! Buy your tickets today! This event sells out every year!
NYE at Hydrate includes a premium hosted bar and hors d’oeuvres from 8pm
to 11pm, champagne toast at Midnight, and party favors for every
guest!!!
General Admission Tickets are only $30 before 12.15.2012!! $35 if purchased before 12.31.2012!
$50 VIP Tickets include all of the above plus in and out privileges all night long!!! Don’t get stuck out in the cold!
DJ Laura B spins from 8 till midnight
Greg Drescher finished out the night till 4 AM…
Hosted by Sorraya Dash!!
NEXT STOP: Established in 1996 by a father and his two sons, the original El Mariachi at 3420 North Broadway and Roscoe (still in business today) is a quaint, but small 10-table restaurant! Again, I’m sure it was the first Mexican restaurant Michael and I ate at when we first moved to Chicago in 2001.
El Mariachi grew in popularity over the years due to their commitment to only serving top quality, authentic, mostly family recipes, traditional dishes and the best margaritas made with fresh squeezed lime juice.
At the newest location opened in 2010, El Mariachi Tequila Bar & Grill at 3906 North Broaway and West Sheridan, you’ll find everything you came to love and expect at their original restaurant plus SO MUCH MORE!
No longer prohibited by lack of space, the new restaurant has a much bigger menu, fresh tableside guacamole that is made to order and an extensive selection of over 175 tequilas! (all 100% Blue Agave). This makes it the biggest tequila bar in Chicago!
In October of this year, their newest endeavor opened to rave reviews: Revolucion Mexican Steakhouse. 3443 N. Broadway. So take your pick or mix and match.
EL MARIACHI will have 2 seatings for a fabulous 3 course pre-fix menu ($30.00 per person) ( regular menu will also be available on new years eve) * 6 pm and 8 pm seatings available. 773-549-2932
After Party At Revolucion Steakhouse...$60 Drink package from 11:00 pm to 2:00 a.m. which includes: Unlimited margaritas, sangria, house wine, selected beer, appertizer buffet
served through out the evening with party favors and champagne toast at midnight Reservations are HIGHLY recommended 773-661-9894.
Roscoe’s Tavern 3356 N. Hasted . A boystown favorite! I love this place. As always, never disappointed in the music. Crowd is always friendly. I always meet new people here. Great dance floor. And fantastic pitchers of unlimited flavors of specialty drinks.
NYE2012 – New Year – New Tune – Presented by Absolut Tune – a sparkling fusion of vodka and Sauvignon Blanc
$25 General Admission Hors d’ouevres, Champagne Toast and $1000 Balloon Drop
$75 VIP Advanced Purchase*
-Dedicated Separate Entrance with Express Entry
-Unlimited In & Out Privileges
-Gift Bag
-Complimentary Coat Check
-5 Premium Cocktails
*Limited Quantity Available
Hydrate Naughty Nice Underwear Party
Skin Productions Presents Naughty & Nice
o was Santa good to you this year?
Did you get everything you want?
Got the cute man-tees or the fabulous swimsuit for the next vacation and anxious to give them a try?
WELL JOIN US TO KICK IN THE NEW YEAR
WEEKEND EXTRAVAGANZA AT HYDRATE!
Come out for another night of dancing and celebrating in your holiday themed undies.
…but…normal undies, swimsuits, and jockstraps are welcomed too.
We at SKIN Productions are equal opportunity skivvies.
Must be in undies, swimsuits and jockstraps or at least have your shirt off to be in the Red Bar. Woman must be in their bra.
Dancing in clothing…BAH, HUMBUG!
You’ll definitely get coal next year
Santa and his elves will be on hand to make your spirits bright!
SHY TOWN GIRLS Series of Books By Local Authors
A group of four women authors
in Chicago were looking to share their best tips on
the collaborative publishing process with you!
Four Shy Girls
Four Big Dreams
One Awesome City
Novel 1 in the Shy-Town Girls 4- Book Series
When beautiful, but shy 24-year-old, Bobbie Bertucci, arrives at her
new digs, an elegant brownstone in Chicago’s historic Gold Coast
neighborhood, she has no idea what her new life will be like. Between
balancing her job as a modeling agent and escaping a bad relationship,
she’s hit rock bottom.
But things change when she moves into the same building as her close
friend Meryl. Additionally, her two new twenty-something roommates, Ivy
and Ella, help bring Bobbie out of her shell. Barbara, landlady and
mother-hen of the house, watches out for the girls while sharing sage
advice.
Bobbie, Meryl, Ivy, and Ella, all variations of shy girls, brave the
city of Chicago together, forming a powerful bond of friendship. Their
nighttime roof deck conversations over glasses of wine instigate
laughter and even some tears.
Bobbie takes a bold step to redesign her life completely to ensure
she doesn’t fall into the romantic trap she fell into before. But
there’s a new suitor in the picture, and she will have to decide between
an old flame or a new one, taking a risk, something hard for any
girl–even harder for a shy girl.
writing and creating a technique that you can learn to use yourself or
with other writing partners.
Listen to a recent interview
with all four authors to learn how we got started on down this writing
path. We hope you’ll gain some valuable insights on writing, publishing
and marketing your own books and products. You’ll get to know each
author individually as we’ll write from our own perspectives and share
our own experiences.
Feel free to contact us for collaboration and speaking opportunities, to talk to your book club or just a drop us a line to say hello!
Sign up now to get free updates on that latest publishing techniques and best practices for writing!”
HYDRATE Purity Ball Dec. 22
Among devout Christians,
the Purity Ball is a gathering of young people who sign a vow of
chastity. NVRLND is about to do its take on this evangelical classic. On
SATURDAY, DEC. 22ND, we regain our virginity for the new year.
This will be the fiercest White Party to hit Chicago. NVRLND’s heavy
arsenal of lights and lasers…new LED dance boxes…the return of the
photo booth…white confetti…bad-ass costumes…CO2…3D
carnage…we’re putting on a f**king show.
DJ JALIL Z (Miami, FL) returns after his highly successful NVRLND Labor Day party
DEBBIE FOX hosts
Live Drums by Mo Kabre, Lighting by Joe Gillan
Production/Costumes by Eddie Couture, Damian Martin, Raul Redaggio, and CHOKE by Shawn Satterfield
NVRLND dancers. NVRLND production. NVRLND lasers.
Marriage Equality is Coming to Illinois!
WE NEED 30 SECONDS
Assembly are ready to move the legislation to a vote. Equality Illinois
is dedicating their efforts to leaving no stone unturned to achieving that
goal.
However, as you may have heard from reports today, our opposition is
gearing up as well, attempting to flood the lawmakers with their
negative messages.
We need to keep the momentum going and make sure the legislators hear from you! Can you take a moment and send an email to your legislator TODAY?
Please be sure to include why marriage equality matters to YOU and make
it personal. AND, don’t forget to share this on Facebook, Twitter and
with your friends and family!
We can’t pass this bill without your help. That is why in
the weeks leading up to lame duck session we will be keeping you
regularly updated and asking you to take regular action.
The time is now to act and make marriage a reality!
Just fill out your zip code! And you can automatically send out a message to your legislators! It’s so fast. PLEASE HELP SPREAD THE WORD!
Getting Into Face with JoJo Baby and Sal-E
Legendary club kid, doll maker, makeup artist, costumer, and penis-sculpture enthusiast JoJo Baby costars with his clubbing companion, Sal-E, in Bernard Colbert’s lush new 12″ x 12″ coffee-table book Getting into Face: 52 Mondays Featuring Jojo Baby and Sal-e
(Schiffer).
For 17 years, Bernard has been perfecting his craft, working in the field of commercial and advertising photography.
‘In the vibrant community where I live and work, I find what I have
always been searching for- a sublime energy. Nightlife activity blends
with the arts and diversity of self expression abounds. Here, I can
freely pursue my dream: to document and celebrate that spark within,
which defines the unique nature of our human experience.’
performance artists JoJo Baby and Sal-E use their bodies as canvases to
become inspired and whimsical conceptual characters, executed with
expert skill using original, theatrical makeup and costumes. In more
than 100 portraits, photographer Bernard Colbert rigorously captures
these two performance artists in genius moments as psychedelic Hindi
gods, comic book villains, fantastical creatures, astronauts, and much,
much more.
Colbert’s stunning portraits document these delightful
transformations over a five-year period and are the same body of work
featured in the Clive Barker documentary titled JoJo Baby. Through
Colbert’s collaboration with JoJo and Sal, viewers can experience a
front row seat to an ongoing show which has been entertaining club goers
in Chicago for two decades. This is a portfolio for the visually
adventuress and fans of true creative vision.
Every Monday night, JoJo Baby with friend Sal-E have gone to work as
hosts of Chicago’s largest and longest running house-music dance party,
the Boom Boom Room, which is currently on hiatus from its usual location
at Green Dolphin St., 2220 N. Ashland Ave., while the building
undergoes renovation. It took the duo hours to prepare, and Colbert was
there every week to capture the endlessly entertaining process. He said
he usually only had 10 to 15 minutes to photograph them before they went
on stage.
“Sometimes they would show up and I would look at what they were
wearing and try and quickly comprehend what they were up to, because
sometimes it’s high concept and it’s not obvious right away,” Colbert
said. “It’s interesting right away, but it’s like, ‘What the heck is
going on?’ So I scramble and try and make it happen.”
Colbert, who took courses in commercial photography at Columbia from
1989–1991, said he loves portrait photography and has been drawn to
performers such as models, musicians and athletes—people who are both
interesting and like being photographed.
The combination of unplanned imagination and spontaneity kept Colbert
continually inspired. He said the most successful images captured an
indescribable magic that would often occur.
“It was something that would elevate it from an interesting time to
really high art, and it’s something that fascinates me,” Colbert said.
“It feels elusive, but when you find that you can do it time and time
again, it’s really fun to keep trying to do it.”
The book will also be available at local
bookstores in Chicago and Amazon.com.
Getting into Face: 52 Mondays Featuring Jojo Baby and Sal-e
Glitz and Glam with Aurora Sexton New Years Eve @ KIT KAT Lounge
AN EVENING of
The Entertainer Of the Year F.I. (EOY) contest system is a Fund Raiser
Event presented for The SLS Pride Foundation, Inc., a non-profit Arts
and Humanities foundation, “Dedicated to the betterment of Diverse
Cultures.”
Many community non-profit organizations have benefited from
the funds raised by The SLS Pride Foundation, Inc., including Metropolitan Community Church of Louisville, Kentucky Theater Project,
Louisville International Film Expo, Louisville Youth Group, Gallopolooza
Louisville Sidewalk Derby, Crusade for Children, Louisville Deaf Oral
School, Bluegrass Classic Tournament, William-Nichols Institute
Educational preservation fund, Fairness Education Fund, Beaux Arts Ball
for Voices of Kentuckiana, University Of Louisville Foundation, Inc.,
Kentuckiana Pride Festival, The Chance School & The Louisville
Visual Arts Association.
Aurora lives in Nashville but gets back to Chicago about once a month.
NEW YEARS EVE, see Aurora live – with 3 choices for the evening.
BOOK EARLY!
SLOTS WILL SELL OUT!
IT’S NEW YEARS EVE!!
Born and raised in Denver, CO, Aurora Sexton is no stranger to the
stage. With an early childhood start in theater and the arts, Aurora has
always been in the spotlight putting her creative talents to work.
With an illustrious career spanning over a decade and an accolade of
titles/crowns and accomplishments to her name, Aurora has become a
staple and well respected icon of nightlife in Chicago since moving to
the windy city 5 years ago.
From her dead on illusions of Dolly Parton to Marylin Manson, exciting
dance routines to swaying the melodies of a ballad, gorgeous glittering
showgirl pieces to barely there sex symbol, this multi-faceted blonde
bombshell will keep you guessing what she’ll come out with next and
always leave you wanting more.
In her time away from stage Aurora works as a freelance makeup artist
for weddings & fashion events, runs party events/promotions and is a
print ad model, most recently becoming the face of Starr Jewels, a top
of the line jewelry company for stage.
Roka Akor Steak and Sushi Welcomes Winter with Special Menu
Roka Akor Steak & Sushi, 456 N. Clark Street, proudly presents Executive Chef Ce Bian’s six-course kaiseki, $85.00, a traditional multi-course Japanese dinner balancing the taste, texture, appearance and colors of cuisine.
Celebrate the winter season with artistic Japanese cuisine and culture featuring the premiere fresh seasonal, natural and local ingredients. This new seasonal menu will launch with the Winter Solstice, on December 21, 2012 and end with Spring’s start, March 20, 2013.
First Course: Oyster Trio; Kumamoto with ponzu mignonette, fresh chive, lime; Hama Hama Tempura with chile ginger, parsley puree, shaved vegetables; Roasted oyster with yuzu koshu soy butter. – These are all AMAZING! I got a taste the other night, and thought nI had died and went to heaven!
· Second Course: Flame Seared Uni Nigiri; Truffled Hotate Nigiri; Chef’s Special Sashimi Selection.
· Third Course: Gobo Soup with root vegetables.
· Fourth Course: Robata Grilled Alaskan Halibut with chile miso butter, parsnip chips and micro green salad.
· Fifth Course: Robata grilled Wagyu confit Short Rib with truffle maitake mushroom; Robata grilled Sweet potato with ginger teriyaki sauce.
· Dessert: Apple tartar with Fig puree, and Sancho pepper cream; Toasted Rice Ice Cream.
Roka Akor, voted one of the Top 10 Sushi Spots in the United States by Bon Appétit
magazine, is a stylish Prime steak and sushi restaurant that features
Robatayaki style “open charcoal” cuisine.
For Chef Ce Bian’s dining room
menu, the freshest fish is flown in daily, and sushi and sashimi are
carefully handpicked by region and seasonality. The menu also features a
variety of succulent steak cuts including Prime Rib Eye with Wafu
Dressing and Prime New York Strip Loin with Truffle Aioli, as well as
the highest quality of domestic and Australian Wagyu Beef. Inside the
Sake & Shochu Lounge — Roka Akor’s informal, yet sophisticated
dining environment — guests can feast on a selection of Japanese small
plates, which are designed for sharing.
Roka Akor,
owned by JNK Concepts, is located in the heart of Chicago’s River North
neighborhood at 456 N. Clark. The restaurant is open for lunch Monday
through Friday and Sunday from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Dinner is served
Sunday through Wednesday from 5 to 11 p.m., Thursday through Saturday
from 5 p.m. to 12 a.m. The Sake & Shochu Lounge is open Sunday
through Wednesday from 5 p.m. to 1 a.m., Thursday and Friday from 5 p.m.
to 2 a.m. and Saturday from 5 p.m. to 3 a.m. For more information about
Roka Akor, please call (312) 477-7652 or visit www.rokaakor.com or the restaurant’s Facebook and Twitter pages.
Jackie Beat at HYDRATE – Holiday Show Dec 20
Jackie Beat is a very well known drag persona and actor, singer, songwriter and screenwriter.
with love of my life, Alexis Arquette and Lady Bunny.
Get a CD here…Dirty Sanchez
Jackie Beat: A Different Christmas Show!
Hydrate presents….JACKIE BEAT!
SHE’S BACK!!! Jackie Beat is back with her hysterical antics and she’s
giving you something to look forward to this holiday season!
ONE NIGHT ONLY!
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 20, 2012
Door open at 7pm and show starts at 8pm!
VIP TICKETS which included seating in the first 3 rows and a complimentary 4 Rebels Cocktail are only $30!
General Admission seating is only $20 in advance and $25 at the door!
Get your tickets today!
THIS WILL SELL OUT!!!
Big Gay Brunch Club Chicago Does EL MARIACHI for a Holiday Brunch Special
ANOTHER AMAZING
12-16-12
Mariachi Salad with Guajillo-Agave Vinaigrette
Chilaquiles con Huevo a la Mexicana y Queso
Scrambled eggs
Taquitos de Papa con Chorizo
Pollo a la Mexicana
Garlic-Epazote Rustic Potatoes
Primavera Rice
Salsa de 4 Chiles & Guaca Salsa
Kahlua 3 Leches Cake
Unlimited mimosas, Mexican Coffee and soft drinks
Homemade Chocolate Abuelita (Hot Chocolate)
$30 Per Person includes tax, gratuity and cash only.
TPAN Barlesque Winners Announced
RECORD BREAKING FUNDRAISING
Online
“Strip-a-thon” raises almost $26,000;
Winner is Mark from Jackhammer
Contestants representing a dozen
bars and restaurants competed for the title of “
Network’s (TPAN) fifth Bar-lesque fundraising event and online strip-a-thon
which took place during the month of November. Bars competing in the contest included
Avenue Tavern, Downtown Bar and Lounge, DS Tequila, Co., Halsted’s Bar and
Grill, Hydrate, Jackhammer, The Lucky Horseshoe Lounge, Minibar, The North End,
Sidetrack, Taverna 750, and Touché. In total, the bars and contestants raised
$25,841 to support TPAN’s HIV programs and services.
The online competition ended promptly at 11:59 p.m. on Friday, November
30. The winner was named shortly after midnight on Saturday, December 1st
at the Closing/Victory Party held at The North End. Contestant Mark,
representing Jackhammer, was named “
Sexiest,” for raising $8,297,(photo 1) the most ever raised by a single contestant in
the contest’s five-year history.
The runner-up was Edwin, representing Avenue
Tavern, (photo 2) who raised $4,558.
Third place went to Kenny,(my favorite bartender – at one of my favorite bars! photo 3) representing DowntownBar and Lounge, who raised $3,130.
For more information about the 12
contestants and to see their sexy photos, visit www.barlesque.org. Donations are
still accepted online, but will not affect the contest winners.
WATCH for CHICAGO TAKES OFF 2013! The sexiest show of the year that ALWAYS sells out!!!
About TPAN
TPAN is the
oldest peer-led HIV/AIDS social service organization in
everyone living with or at risk for HIV/AIDS to live open, healthy, and
productive lives. TPAN delivers innovative peer-led support programs and
collaborative wellness services and communicates accurate, comprehensive
information. TPAN will do so until HIV/AIDS is eradicated.
$500 Poster Contest for 2013 Gay Six Flags Event
“Out in the Park” at Six Flags Great America returns in 2013 with a BANG!
500 Posters and 30,000 Postcards will be printed and distributed in
Chicagoland, Wisconsin, parts of Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota and Indiana!
Plus we’ll have ads and banners on websites everywhere including
Facebook. Your name will be on everything, giving the artist amazing exposure!
- The competition is open to all interested artists and graphic designers.
- All submissions must be received before the deadline to be considered in the competition.
- There is no limit to the number of submissions entered.
- There is no cost to submit.
- Entries will be accepted from individuals, collaborative teams, or design firms, with prize money being split between the entrants listed on the submission.
- The winner will be given credit for design on artwork to include a name or website reference on all printed material and on www.BestGayChicago.com, www.GaySixFlagsChicago.com and other websites that run the official press release.
The winning design as chosen by BestGayChicago.com will receive $500 and 2 tickets to the “Out In The Park” at Six Flags Great America 2013 Celebration ($80.00 Value).
*This was the BACK of last years postcard – we’ll be looking to totally redesign the back, with much less information:
Tickets for admission to the park are $39 includes FREE PARKING! A portion of all tickets sold will benefit (Charity TBD 2/1/13).
BestGayChicago.com is looking for artwork and a design that immediately grab your attention visually and look like something REALLY FUN that you feel compelled to buy a ticket for , grab some friends and get out and have a BLAST!
Entries must include:
- OUT IN THE PARK official logo
- BestGayChicago.com official logo
- All text necessary to create the sell message
- Additional sponsor/media partner logos
- Beyond bright and colorful!
- Use of park ride(s) and feeling of fun and/or movement
- The rest is up to you and your vision!
Entries will be judged using the following criteria:
- Overall impact of eye-catching appeal
- Visual attractiveness
- Ability to draw the viewer in
- Clear and concise messaging
- Appropriateness of graphics used
- Off the-chart creativity
- Must be appropriate for all ages.
Include your name, address, email and phone number on with each submission to
BestGayCities (at) gmail (dot) com.
All submissions will be judged based on content, appeal and marketability. The decisions of the judges will be final.
Guidelines are as follows:
Poster:
– Size 11″ X 17″ Entries should be developed at least 300dpi, but can be submitted at a lower resolution.
– Final winner will submit 300dpi PDF – and be able to tool poster theme into postcard size and various sized ads.
– Must be original artwork. Do not submit copyrighted work. BE CAREFUL using stock images for rides that do not exist at Six Flags Great America. We can not show a full ride image, of a ride that does not exist. However, you could cut out portions of a generic ride and riders, if needed.
Michael or Derrick 773-878-5323
Holiday Gifts Galore at Randolph Market Dec 15-16
Get your holiday shopping and party planning off to the
right start with wares in all price ranges, from thrifty to extravagant, and
not to mention the brilliant ideas you’ll get in regards to your own holiday
displays.
You will discover fabulous keepsakes from embroidered hankies to
estate jewelry with everything in between. Timeless antiques and modern
treasures including vintage and indie fashion, furniture, jewelry, art,
decorative objects, house wares, and more will make this holiday show a
memorable experience. Get a jump on the holiday season, beginning with vintage
cheer spanning the decades!
Have all your holiday decorating, party planning, fashion and entertaining questions answered by the vintage kings and queens at the Randolph Street Market’s 6th Annual Holiday Market, December 15 and 16.
The Randolph Street Market is the perfect one stop shop for your holiday needs when it comes to tabletop, indoor/outdoor décor, holiday fashion and jewelry, and so much more. Make this season as unique as the selection of wares you’ll find at the market with free giftwrap on site and free furniture delivery in Chicago.
Randolph Street’s 6th Annual Holiday Market
WHEN:
Saturday, December 15– 10:00 am to 6:00 pm
Sunday, December 16– 10:00 am to 5:00 pm
WHERE:
Beaux Arts Plumber’s Hall, 1340 W. Washington Street, Chicago FREE PARKING in huge onsite parking lot only steps away from entrance
PRICE: Discounted $8 tickets are available in advance (click here); general admission $10, students with ID $3 or $5 at the gate. Children 12 and under free.
NEW IN 2012: Every paid admission gets a $5 or $10 shopping voucher good toward purchases. For more information, visit www.randolphstreetmarket.com
