Category Archives: News and Happenings
Cyndi Lauper Kinky Boots Music for Broadway
Iconic performer Cyndi Lauper has released “Sex is in the Heel” and a selection of remixes from the upcoming musical Kinky Boots. The remixes are now available on iTunes http://bit.ly/SexIsInTheHeel-
Kinky Boots, the new musical that brings together four-time Tony® Award-winner Harvey Fierstein (Book) and Grammy® Award-winning Cyndi Lauper (Music & Lyrics), will have its pre-Broadway world premiere in Chicago this fall.
Directed and choreographed by Tony® Award-winner Jerry Mitchell, Kinky Boots will play the Bank of America Theatre (18 West Monroe Street, Chicago, IL) beginning October 2 through November 4, 2012, in anticipation of a 2013 Broadway opening.
For tickets for the Chicago engagement of Kinky Boots, visit BroadwayInChicago.com.
In Kinky Boots, Charlie Price is forced to step in and save his family’s shoe factory in Northern England, following the sudden death of his father. Help comes from the unlikeliest angel, a fabulous drag performer named Lola. Together, this improbable duo revitalizes the failing business, while helping one another grow into the men their fathers always dreamed they would become and transforming an entire community through the power of acceptance.
Inspired by a true story and based on the film, Kinky Boots features a warm and witty book by Mr. Fierstein (La Cage, Torch Song Trilogy, Newsies) and a richly diverse musical score from Ms. Lauper, in her stunning theatrical debut. Mr. Mitchell (Hairspray, La Cage, Broadway Bares) has crafted a production bound to move, inspire and set audience’s feet dancing.
CAN’T WAIT!!!!
www.cyndi lauper.com
Steamwerkz The Musical Selling out! And Extended!
EVERYONE IS LOVING THIS!
Even Steamworks!
And is SELLING OUT EVERY FRIDAY!
In a brand new musical from The Annoyance, a wide-eyed gay boy comes to Chicago and makes friends with a ragtag group of characters at Chicago’s most beloved gay bathhouse – Steamwerkz.
“Steamwerkz The Musical” is directed by Clay Goodpasture. Goodpasture is a writer, actor, producer and director that has worked at The Second City, iO, The Playground, and The Annoyance. He is an ensemble member of GayCo Productions and is fresh off of a year-long run of last summer’s blockbuster hit spectacular, “The Boy Scout Musical, Knot Prepared” which he co-created with Mick Napier. His directing credits include “Cockettes: A Christmas Spectacular” and “Dread Pirate.”
IT IS SELLING OUT EVERY FRIDAY! AND NOW HAS BEEN EXTENDED UNTIL OCTOBER 5TH
CHECK OUT THE CAST ONLINE
“Steamwerkz The Musical” plasy every Friday at 10:00PM.
Tickets are $20, $15 for students and can be purchased at the company’s website theannoyance.com or by calling the box office: 773.561.HONK (4665). The Annoyance is located at 4830 N. Broadway, Chicago, Illinois. AND it’s a cute little space. You can have a drink and see some cool shows!
Steamwerkz-The Musical
“Think Alice in Wonderland with glory holes. In this delightfully filthy
musical comedy, a lunkhead from Nebraska follows the stud of his dreams
into a Boystown bathhouse and finds himself in an alternate universe
full of eccentric inhabitants (twinks, trolls, the “King of Steam”),
mind-altering substances, and unique customs (everybody wears towels,
humps anything that moves). Though the comedy goes limp (sorry) as the
through-the-looking-glass premise gives way to a story about lonely
souls “looking for love and settling for less,” the show is redeemed by
Tara Trudel’s peppy score and some sharply drawn characterizations from
the cast. Zach Zimmerman and Chris Kervick are especially good as a pair
of empty-headed front-desk clerks. -Zac Thompson”
Chicago Reader
Rahm Emanuel Say he will Block Chick Fil A From Opening any More Stores in Chicago
Chick Fil A backlash continues!!
Chicago Alderman
Proco “Joe” Moreno says he won’t allow Chick-Fil-A to open a restaurant
in his Northwest Side ward because of the company’s anti-gay worldview,
and Mayor Rahm Emanuel is offering his support, the Chicago Tribune reports:
“If
you are discriminating against a segment of the community, I don’t want
you in the 1st Ward,” Moreno told the Tribune on Tuesday.
Moreno
stated his position in strong terms, referring to Cathy’s “bigoted,
homophobic comments” in a proposed opinion page piece that an aide also
sent to Tribune reporters. “Because of this man’s ignorance, I will now
be denying Chick-fil-A’s permit to open a restaurant in the 1st Ward.”
The alderman has the ideological support of Mayor Rahm Emanuel.
“Chick-fil-A values are not Chicago
values,” the mayor said in a statement when asked about Moreno’s
decision. “They disrespect our fellow neighbors and residents. This
would be a bad investment, since it would be empty.”
The proposed restaurant, in the Logan Square neighborhood, would be the second to open in the Windy City.
SuperHero Revolution At House of Blues Aug 11
The “Superhero Revolution” is coming to Chicago’s Market Days 2012!
CircuitMOM Productions is hard at work preparing to transform the House Of
Blues into a Saturday night Revolution party like no other. Saturday, August 11th.
“We have done “Wild West”, “Zombie”, “Pride”, “Neon” and “IML Victory” parties, but we are most
excited about our “Superhero” theme for Market Days. Last years’ sold out Market
Days event has us amped up and ready to make this year bigger and better than
ever. You will “marvel” at the soaring two-story set design and long to be rescued
from the perilous dance floor by the spectacularly heroic go go dancers poised atop
their platforms on stage.”
Armed with his trusted CDJ 2000 CD players, powerful headphones, stealth
collection of custom remixes and super human talent, DJ Joe Gauthreaux returns to
save you from the chaos of the street fair and is ready to spin you and your cape into
a frenzy with his almost 7 hour set. You will not want to miss one note.
With an army of Superhero GoGo boys from around the globe being flown in, there will be plenty of sexy caped crusaders there to make sure you have a great time. Plenty of surprises and special effects lined up to give
you an out of this world party.
SO! Dust off your mask, pull on your tights, fire up the invisible plane and get
ready to experience the best Market Days party yet!
Join us on Facebook
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW:
Limited $40 early bird tickets are on sale in Chicago now at CRAM FASHION
3329 N. Broadway or at the House Of Blues box office. Online credit card
We say this every time, but BUY YOUR TICKETS EARLY TO SAVE MONEY!
Tickets will be $60 once the limited early bird tickets are gone.
SuperStar Sundays Party Aug 12 at The Mid
BOX BOY RICH presents
Superstar
Sundays
Sunday Aug 12, 2012
A Market Days weekend closing party fun with a brand
new improved venue! @ The MID. Located in Chicago‘s meatpacking district in the West Loop, it meets somewhere in the middle of the city between Chicago‘s downtown and the neighborhoods within the city; somewhere in the middle of a live music venue and an upscale nightclub. The Mid seems to be in tune with live music and nightlife to give music lovers the ultimate concert experience. It’s a fantastic music-centric club!
SuperStar Sunday Aug. 12th will feature DJ PAULO!
$25 pre sale ticket price! clubtix or just scan the QR code!
Help Chicago’s Gay Homeless Youth July 25th
that benefits the Chicago queer community by raising funds and
awareness, will be raising money for queer homeless youth. The event
will be called Show Support With Showtunes and will feature live musical
theater performances and take place at Sidetrack Video Bar at 3349 N
Halsted, Chicago, IL at 7pm. Performers donating their talent include
Jeff nominated Jayson Brooks (lead singer from JC Brooks And The Uptown
Sound,) Jess Godwin (nationally touring
recording artist,) Sharriese Hamilton, Joey Stone (Pippin,) Ryan Lanning
(Alien Queen) and Bethany Thomas (Hairspray) and hosted by Benny
Stardust (Steamworkz: The Musical, Windy City Gay Idol.) The night will
also include a silent auction. The proceeds will benefit The Night
Ministry’s queer homeless shelter The Crib.
We Are Halsted
was organized in the summer of 2011 in response to rising numbers in
queer homeless youth. Twenty-six percent of LGBTQ youth were kicked out
of their homes when they came out (that’s over a quarter of LGBTQ
youth.) Queer youth are seven times more likely to be victims of crime
and three times more likely to engage in survival sex. There are 15,000
homeless youth in Chicago and up to 40% of them identify as queer. July
25th will be the third edition of We Are Halsted and organized by its
creator Adam Guerino and the creator of Over The Rainbow, Jimmy Kays.
Our beneficiary combats this issue like no other organization in
Chicago. The Night Ministry’s The Crib not only provides queer homeless
youth with food and shelter throughout the night, but with a sense of
community and confidence–empowering them as they search for housing and
employment. It is the only shelter of its kind in the Midwest and the
only resource for youth from Chicago and several surrounding states.
Unfortunately, due to lack of funding, it has gone from being a
year-round homeless shelter to only being available from October 1st to
April 30th. If there are 15,000 homeless youth in Chicago and 40% of
them identify as queer, that means 6,000 homeless youth no longer have a
safe place in Chicago over night. Where will these youth go? Statistics
can’t say but whether they are empowered enough to ask or not, queer
homeless youth are hoping for your help.
A personal belief
from the organizers of We Are Halsted is that when a youth is kicked out
of a straight home for being queer, whether admitted or only
suspected–they belong to the queer community. These youth want what the
entire queer community wants, to be accepted for who they are, who they
love but most importantly, to feel safe with food, shelter and a future
in the wider community. They need your support to achieve these simple,
basic goals.
We Are Halsted: Show Support With Showtunes.
Wednesday July 25th doors open at 7pm at Sidetrack on 3349 N Halsted.
Tickets are $12 in advance ((go to www.thenightministry.org
– donate – and choose “We Are Halsted” in the drop-down menu, select
$12 donations and your name will be added the door list,)) and $17 at
the door. All tickets include a drink ticket. Proceeds benefit The Night
Ministry’s The Crib.
Help spread word by “liking” our community page on www.facebook.com/
La Soiree with Bath Boy David O’Mer in Chicago until August 5th – MUST SEE Show!
The sexy, funny and dangerous world of LA SOIRÉE! Has arrived in Chicago for a LIMITED engagement!!
A theatrical phenomenon, a unique and inspirational night of live entertainment, LA SOIRÉE’s heady cocktail of cabaret, new burlesque, circus sideshow and contemporary variety has taken the world by storm. Showcasing the crème de la crème of twisted cabaret entertainers from around the world, including stars of the Olivier-Award winning La Clique, LA SOIRÉE is an international sensation. And we are very lucky this show has made their North American debut in Chicago!
Fresh from record-breaking and awarding-winning seasons in London and Australia, taking in the iconic Sydney Opera House and Camden’s legendary Roundhouse, LA SOIRÉE is limbering up for a world-wide tour this Summer.
Playing at the The Riverfront Theater, 650 West Chicago Ave., this is Chicago’s newest
destination for music, theater, dance, spectacles and more. Now in its
second year, the 70-foot tall, 20,000 square foot temperature-controlled
tent is the cornerstone of a 80,000 square-foot entertainment complex
that includes dining and refreshment options located on the scenic
Chicago River. (Right behind Japonais Restaurant, across the river).
But what is so cool about La Soiree is everything happens on a tiny round stage that is about 12 feet around. And the audience surrounds the stage, so it is extremely intimate. Winner of the 2012 London Cabaret Awards, La Soiree is very sexy, very funny, and I encourage you to run see this show while it is in Chicago for a very short run!
Denis Lock and Hamish McCann are two delightful and devilish English Gents (above) who perform inconceivable feats of acrobatic skill, strength and balance, all whilst casually puffing a pipe and sporting the stiffest of British upper lips. The act mixes their highly skilled stunts with a dry English wit, unexpectedly climaxing with the two hilariously baring near-all for Queen and country and in the process displaying more pure sex appeal than ever before seen under a bowler hat.
And that’s not all! In a UK first the Gents will be premiering their solo acts with LA SOIRÉE, offering audiences the chance to see beyond the pinstripes and breeches. Denis pays homage to the Far East with a kimono-clad display of towering strength, with an amazing balancing chair act! And Hamish’s pole performance, imagine Fred Astaire from Singing in the Rain meets Cirque du Soleil! will blow you away! Two amazing talented men with bodies that are incredibly strong and rock solid.
It’s been quite a year for Le Gateau Chocolat, the opera-singing diva with a penchant for being wrapped in body hugging lycra and a passion for laughter.
Since first guesting with us at the Hippodrome, La Gateau Chocolat exploded onto London’s cabaret scene and has been garnering praise and adoration across the globe – from Edinburgh to Melbourne, and from TV screens to the cover of Time Out.
This delicious confection is a killer baritone who delivers outrageous yet moving renditions of everything from pop-rock to opera.
A real showstopper, Le Gateau Chocolat has a warmth that will see the whole world addicted to chocolate; that is if you aren’t hooked already!
And then David O’Mer..….sigh. Affectionately known as Bath Boy.
Hailing from Berlin and originally trained as a gymnast, David has been a cornerstone of this dysfunctional family for many years. His now world-famous incarnation as ‘Bath Boy’ leaves audiences damp and breathless in admiration – the combination of wet jeans and awe-inspiring aerial ballet is once-seen, never-forgotten.
David IS the Adonis in denim.
We first discovered David through You Tube a couple years ago. And we thrilled to see him in Chicago and bring his jaw dropping talents to Chicago!
Low lighting, rippling muscles, a near-naked man in a bathtub and
sultry music… his act is probably seven of the sexiest minutes you will ever
experience! Of course, we had to run backstage after the show and meet the infamous “bath man” – and have him autograph the washcloth we caught during his act!
David says, “It’s pretty easy to meet people
after the show because they’re all excited about the act!”
Obviously, his act is highly appealing to gay men and women. But David says straight men seem to enjoy it as well.
“I’ve always waited for guys to just not be into it but I’ve never had a
bad response. Even in corporate performances where the audience is 90
per cent male everyone has loved the show. It made me realise that even
straight guys can just look at the act and not worry about it. “
About 10 acts in all – La Soiree delivers an adult evening of fun and sexy entertainment! Their is a striptease act with mischievous disappearing hankies. From high brow to low brow and from live art to loquacious party tricks,Susannah Martinez treads where few performers dare to go, with the audience right there along for the ride. Expect to emerge from her act with a rudimentary knowledge of bawdy Spanish and a surprising awareness of anatomy.
And then the Supple, sexy, skilful and stunningly handsome, Bret Pfister brings the finest of New York’s cabaret talent to LA SOIRÉE. Equally inspired by the neo-Weimar cabaret movement and the nu-wave, synth-pop sounds of the 1980s, he blends awesome physical skill and a cool insouciance into his exquisite, punked-up aerial ballet.
We could go on and on – but go see this show!
La Soiree
NOW through Sunday 5 August
Show times:
Sunday – Thursday 8pm
Friday & Saturday 6pm and 9pm
Please check here for full performance schedule.
Prices from $ 50.00 – ask about the POSH on stage seating!!!
Click here to book your tickets Telephone: +1 (0) 888 556 9484
“Unite: For the Love of Fashion” benefiting EdgeAlliance Aug 1
Unite for a good cause and a fashion show!
We’ll join together in Boystown with some of Chicago’s hottest fashion
designers…and all to benefit EdgeAlliance.
Sponsored by Designs by Rosa
Hosted by Mission 2 Organize
Designers: J. TOOR and SHAH RIAZ
*Fashions will be available for sale at event.
Hair & Makeup: Siren Salon
Nosh: Garrett Popcorn Shops
Silent Auction Donations:
element wellness center
J.TOOR
Stuart Rodgers Photography
Trunk Club
Ward Nipper
Aligned Modern Health
Garrett Popcorn Shops
Mission 2 Organize
TICKETS AVAILABLE NOW $15 in advance, $20 at the door
100% OF THE PROCEEDS TO BENEFIT EdgeAlliance. EdgeAlliance transforms
the lives of people impacted by HIV/AIDS and those living on the edge of
society.
Chicago House and Linda Clifford Present Unique Party September 15th
Chicago House is excited to
premiere an all new event fundraiser to support the organization’s
ongoing efforts to assist families and individuals affected by HIV and AIDS.
“ONE NIGHT STAND is an explosive, multi -sensory dance party wrapped
around a live concert,” explained Jeremy
Hilborn, Chicago House’s Manager of Special Events.
“It’s a full buffet of sights and sounds, built around an
experiential concert,” Hilborn continued.
For its inaugural year, the new
event, inspired by a popular dance recording artist and icon Linda Clifford,
will feature the singer in a custom designed, immersive nightclub
environment.
From
grinding go-go boys to a diva belting it with a full band to DJ Mathew Harvat
offering up the beats, ONE NIGHT STAND will rock a very transformed Park West on Saturday, September 15th beginning at 8:00 pm.
Chicago House brought some major
players to the table in developing the event in its first year. Keith Elliott (Dance
for Life Chicago/ Chicago Takes Off) and Tony Savino (Dance for Life Palm Springs) bring over twenty
years’ of experience in performance based fundraising to create this exciting
new addition to the Chicago House event calendar. Over the organization’s
27 year history, events like the Speaker Series Luncheon, Champagne Wrapture,
and Brunch & Fashion Show have become synonymous with Chicago House.
ONE
NIGHT STAND aims to make that same impact, while attracting a new system of
support to the organization in an imaginative and fun way.
Be a part of a glittering new addition to the Chicago House collection of annual events… ONE NIGHT STAND!
Tickets to ONE NIGHT STAND start
at $35 for balcony seating, and range up to $200. For more information or to
purchase tickets, please visit Chicagohouse.org or call 773-248-5200 x303.
Gay Liberation Network August 1st Meeting
Direct Action Group!
attention to equality and liberation for LGBTs, against America ‘s wars,
supporting labor and immigrant rights, and more, the Gay Liberation Network
is there.
We meet at 7 PM on the first Wednesday of each month at the
Berger Park Cultural Center , at the northeast corner of Sheridan Road
and Granville Avenue (about 3 blocks east of the “Granville” Red Line el
stop). Gayliberation.net
See you AUGUST 1st! at 7pm.
Abbey of West Hollywood Getting Closer to a Boystown Chicago opening?
For months now, it has been speculated the famed ABBEY bar from West Hollywood was coming to Halsted St. in Boystown. Abbey is making no comment.
As previously reported it was speculated that SBE had purchased a lot, at 3514 N Halsted St. Rumors were that SBE had looked at the old Brompton garage at 3532 N. Halsted, but a real estate source we talked to said the garage had way too many environmental problems that looked too costly for the investors.
No one is saying BOO about the project. However last week huge EFFEN vodka signs went into the Brompton garage windows – leaving very little room to peer inside! So it would appear, the ABBEY might in fact be going in now!
ChicagoPride.com confirmed several weeks ago, that a local businesswoman, Wendy Berger
Shapiro, is under contract to purchase the 12,100 square-foot building
at 3532 N. Halsted and that meetings have already been held with city
officials and neighborhood groups, including Triangle Neighbors and the Northalsted Business Alliance, to discuss plans for The Abbey. Shapiro confirmed the contract but also noted that the purchase has not been finalized.
The Abbey and SBE are still playing it cool. Saying nothing is really happening. – But come on – the EFFEN vodka signs – what’s that all about??
Stay tuned for more details. If the Abbey opens in Chicago, nightlife will be given a BIG shake up!
UPDATE 7-17-2012
THE DEAL WITH BROMPTON GARAGE WILL NOT HAPPEN, says broker Wendy Berger Shapiro. SBE has walked away from the table at this time.
New Yorker Ernest Kohl New Love Song
HE’S BACK! Our good friend and International Recording Star ERNEST KOHL has just done a WORLDWIDE RELEASE of “ANYONE
WHO’S EVER BEEN IN LOVE” direct from the studio and from the HOT NEW
MUSICAL and UPCOMING MOVIE “THE COSMOPOLITAN” written by Golden Globe,
Grammy and Emmy Winners Lance Horne and Josh Rhodes! This is going to be great!
This musical
masterpiece contains no less than 30 sexy sizzling remixes to choose
from for your listening pleasure! When you look into someone’s eyes, the
words to “ANYONE WHO’S EVER BEEN IN LOVE” should echo in your mind and
resonate in your heart.
WATCH / LISTEN NOW
Chicago’s New Savon Spa Promises a Unique Organic Spa Experience
Savon Spa announces the grand opening of its luxury day spa in
the Lakeview area of Chicago. Savon is a five star luxury day spa offering a unique organic product portfolio and holistic concept in line with the traditional Eastern spa experience.
“The concept behind Savon Spa is to bring truly unique, high end services to Chicago and offer those services at an affordable rate,” said Savon Spa owner, Vince Dinh. “From head to toe, Savon Spa will spoil clients with experiences and services that are good for the body, soul and environment.”
Savon Spa offers indulgent, organic products and treatments in an atmosphere of warmth and serenity. The Spa stands by a commitment to caring for the Earth by offering only the purist of
organic products. Some of the Spa’s more unique services offered include:
The Manicure/Pedicure Vegan Deluxe Spa: A chemical-free service- using organic
scrubs, masks, lotion and essential oils from the Eminence Organic skin care line.
The Placenta Treatment: Hollywood’s best kept secret to beautiful skin. A complete
natural source that is high in protein, vitamin and minerals with concentrations of the
amino acid glycine.
The Cleopatra 24K Gold Mask: This unique treatment not only rejuvenates the skin
but also accelerates cell renewal, reverses oxidation damage, evens out skin tone and
assists lymphatic drainage.
Diamond Microdermabrasion: A crystal-free, diamond tip 1-hour treatment removes
dead skin cells, promotes blood circulation, invigorates collagen and elastin production
for a more youthful appearance, removes unhealthy toxins and leaves the face with a
gorgeous polish.
Out of the ordinary massage services with oriental techniques such as Ayurveda, Tui
Na, Shiatsu, Bamboo and Hot Lava Shell. And many more…
In celebration of its Grand Opening, Savon Spa is offering 20 percent off all services throughout
the month of July until August 5, 2012.
Savon Spa is located at 3635 N. Halstead Street (across from Center on Halsted and Whole Foods)
For more information text Savon to 21777.
Barry Manilow and Chris Colferl in Chicago with Windy City Live
BARRY MANILOW
Singer Songwriter icon Barry Manilow will be joining Windy City LIVE Friday morning, July 12th performing some of his chart-topping songs.
He’s also here to cap off the week-long Manilow Music Project (MMP)-sponsored instrument drive for Chicago Public Schools and to discuss his upcoming concert at the Chicago Theatre.
Windy City LIVE audience members will be bringing a musical instrument to donate to Chicago Public Schools and Barry will have a surprise of his own.
If you miss it – you can watch it on their site!
WINDY CITY LIVE
CHRIS COLFER
Chris Colfer, best known for his role on the critically acclaimed, award-winning show “Glee,” will be on Windy City LIVE next Friday, July 20th, to talk about his life, career and playing a gay teen on Glee.
Colfer will also discuss his first novel, LAND OF STORIES: THE WISHING SPELL, part one in a series for children. The novel is due to be released on July 17 of this year.
Ride for AIDS Chicago $10,000 Matching Challenge
From Robert Garofalo:
Preparing for the Ride for AIDS Chicago has been an extremely
challenging and rewarding endeavor for me and for the more than 250
other Riders who have been preparing for this two-day, 200 mile bike
ride.
I think we’re ready. It’s the support of friends, family and
complete strangers that make this adventure worth it for me and the
entire team.
A good friend has offered to match dollar for dollar, up to $10,000,
every contribution posted on my page starting July 10, 2012. Your
contribution today will be doubled! Please show your support for me, my
fellow riders and for the people who receive services at TPAN.
100% of donations directly support services at TPAN. For 25 years TPAN
has empowered people living with HIV through peer-led programming,
support services, information dissemination, and advocacy. For friends
who rely on them, these services are vital.
The Ride for AIDS Chicago has already surpassed last year’s recording
breaking $535,000. We have a goal of raising $600,000. Please join us
in this challenge!
**I know many of you are being directed to my page due to the generosity
of other riders. KNOW that we are all raising monies toward the same
goal and please make note of who you are honoring with a donation. I
have met some of the most remarkable, generous and talented people as
part of this ride and I know TOGETHER we can reach this challenge
!
Please make a donation now.
Chicago AIDS Run Walk Kick Off July 17th
Organizers of the AIDS Run & Walk Chicago will kick-off its recruitment and fundraising efforts on
Tuesday, July 17 from 5:30-7:30 p.m.
at Cactus Bar & Grill, 404 S. Wells St.
At the July 17 event, interested parties will be able to register and get more information on the AIDS Run & Walk Chicago. Proceeds from select Patron tequila cocktails will also partially benefit the AIDS Foundation of Chicago.
To date, 36 beneficiaries and 26 other teams had registered for AIDS Run & Walk Chicago, which will take place on Sunday, Sept. 30, at Soldier Field and offer a 5K and 10K running routes and a 5K walk route. Organizers expect more than 150 teams to register.
AIDS Run & Walk Chicago is the city’s largest outdoor fundraiser for organizations that provide life-saving services for people living with HIV/AIDS. The event is produced by the AIDS Foundation of Chicago and Special Events Management.
Pre-registration ranges from $30-$45 before September 14. Registration is $50 after the pre-registration deadline. To register as a fundraising individual or as a team, visit aidsrunwalk.org or call (312) 334-0946.
Founded in 1985 by community activists and physicians, the AIDS Foundation of Chicago is a catalyst for local, national, and international action against HIV/AIDS.
AIDS Foundation of Chicago “Change My Story” Campaign Debuts Smartphone-Driven Ads
Smartphone-Driven Ads to Connect People to HIV Prevention and Care Services
To
mark National HIV Testing Day, the AIDS Foundation of Chicago (AFC)
debuted a series of smartphone-driven bus shelter ads on the South and
West Sides of Chicago to
help African Americans connect to HIV testing and care services.
The
larger-than-life ads, featuring community ambassadors, are part of the agency’s community-level educational campaign, known as
Change My Story, designed to inspire communities of color to connect to life-extending health care services. A
2010 report
from the Pew Research Center on technology trends indicated
African-Americans boast the highest rates of any demographic group when
it comes to interacting with the community via text message
and other non-traditional platforms.
“Change My Story
is about empowering people to take control of their life and health,
with respect to HIV/AIDS and all life-changing illnesses,” said David
Ernesto Munar,
AFC President and CEO. “Nowadays it seems people rarely go anywhere
without their cell phone. But it’s actually more than a phone – it’s a
lifeline to testing, care and support.”
The
smartphone-driven bus shelter ads feature scannable “quick response”
(QR) codes to instantly direct mobile users to videos from community
ambassadors and to the HIV testing
and care website, ChangeMyStory.org. The videos are
It Gets Better-style testimonials from young Black men, women,
clergy, and members of the “ball community,” a dynamic LBGT subculture
in which individuals compete for prizes and respect by “walking” or
“vogueing.”
Change My Story asks individuals to “join the movement” in three distinct ways:
Say yes to the test. It’s about getting tested for HIV/AIDS, but also other diseases that can steal moments from your life (hypertension, high cholesterol, hepatitis, diabetes, and cancer). Make your health a priority and experience more of the moments in life that are important to you.
Connect to care. ChangeMyStory.org will help you connect to care services that are right for you and the experts who can help. Find out what you need to know to take control – whether or not you have health insurance.
Spread the word. Each one, reach one. Spread the word to your friends and family. Encourage them to take control of their own health – like you did.
For more information, visit aidschicago.org.
Center on Halsted offers many Transgender focused and HIV Programs
July at the Center on Halsted….
July 2nd, 2012 – Charm School
– 7:15 to 8:30 PM
– Charm School is hosted by Mamma Gloria and topics include transgender image, etiquette, and charm. This event is open to all young, transgender persons.
July 3rd, 2012 – Intersex Chicago
– 6:30 to 9 PM
– Are you intersex? Have you ever felt you fall between the male and female check boxes? Intersex people physically differ from the “standard” male and female. These differences might be genetic, hormonal, or genital. We have features typical of both male and female at once or may have no clearly defined sexual features at all. There are many different kinds of intersex people.
– Intersex Chicago is a peer-led casual conversation group for those who identify as intersex or think they might be. It is also open to significant others, family, friends, allies, or anyone with questions.
– Meet other intersex people at Intersex Chicago. Make new friends. Find out more about intersex. Explore and celebrate your difference.
July 3rd, 20102 – Bisexuality Discussion Group
– 7 to 9:30 PM
– An evening for bisexuals, bi-curious and bi-allies to form community, share ideas and connect with peers
July 4th, 2012 – HIV+ Support Group (22-34)
– 6 to 7:30 PM
– For anyone living with HIV regardless of length of diagnosis, we offer HIV+ Support Groups. Our support groups run on 10-week cycles and are age-specific. The groups are facilitated by a mental health professional with extensive training in HIV and STDs and are a safe, confidential space for people who are living with HIV to share their experiences, to learn from each other, and to find support from others who may be going or may have gone through similar circumstances. Pre-registration required.
July 4th, 2012 – GenderQueer Chicago
– 6:30 PM
– GenderQueer Chicago is a grassroots, peer-led group that works to create safe spaces for all of us to talk about, think about, explore, and express gender. Meetings are intended to be a safe, encouraging and supportive environment. They are open to those who wish to talk and think about gender!
July 6th, 2012 – Trans Amor
– 6:30 to 9 PM
– A peer-led, casual conversation group open to current partners of gender non-conforming/transgender identified individuals, as well as those considering entering a relationship with someone who is gender non-conforming/transgender. T-Amor is always open to individuals of any gender identity/sexual orientation.
July 6th, 2012 – Man Cave
– A peer lead, casual conversation group, for those 18 and older, who identify as female to male, transgender individuals, or are female bodied and are questioning their gender. First and third Fridays of each month.
July 7th, 2012- HIV+ Support Group (22+)
– 12 to 1:30 PM
– For anyone living with HIV regardless of length of diagnosis, we offer HIV+ Support Groups. Our support groups run on 10-week cycles and are age-specific. The groups are facilitated by a mental health professional with extensive training in HIV and STDs and are a safe, confidential space for people who are living with HIV to share their experiences, to learn from each other, and to find support from others who may be going or may have gone through similar circumstances. Pre-registration required.
July 9th, 2012 – Charm School
– 7:15 to 8:30 PM
– Charm School is hosted by Mamma Gloria and topics include transgender image, etiquette, and charm. This event is open to all young, transgender persons.
July 10th, 2012 – The Confident Modern Family
– 5:30 to 7:45 PM
– Join us for wine and hors d’oeuvres to learn how to create the modern family. There will be a panel discussion on the emotional, legal and financial complexities that LGBTQ families face. In addition, we will also give an overview of adoption and surrogacy options.
July 12th, 2012 – Parents of Transgender Individuals
– 7 PM
– A peer lead, conversation and support group for those who are the parents of individuals, who identify as Transgender, or are questioning their gender.
July 12th, 2012 – HIV+ Support Group (35+)
– 6 to 7:30 PM
– For anyone living with HIV regardless of length of diagnosis, we offer HIV+ Support Groups. Our support groups run on 10-week cycles and are age-specific. The groups are facilitated by a mental health professional with extensive training in HIV and STDs and are a safe, confidential space for people who are living with HIV to share their experiences, to learn from each other, and to find support from others who may be going or may have gone through similar circumstances. Pre-registration required.
July 14th, 2012 – 3656 Trans Ave
– 6:30 PM
A series of seminars and workshops of interest to members the broad Trans community, including, those who identify as female to male, male to female, as well as, gender queer as well as, their significant others, family members, friends, and allies.
Northwestern Memorial Hospital Ranks High with Gay LGBT Healthcare
Northwestern Memorial Hospital is one of only three hospitals in Illinois named a “Leader in LGBT Healthcare Equality” in the 2012 Healthcare Equality Index (HEI) report.
The HEI is an annual survey conducted by the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) Foundation, the educational arm of the country’s largest lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender (LGBT) organization. Northwestern Memorial was commended for its commitment to equitable, inclusive care for LGBT patients and their families who can face challenges in accessing adequate healthcare.
My partner and I both see Dr. Eric Christoff, at the NMPG office on Halsted. He has been our doctor for 8 years and we highly recommend him and NMPG to EVERYONE WE KNOW!
“We are proud to be recognized for our commitment to serving the LGBT community in Chicago,” said Dennis Murphy, executive vice president and chief operating officer at Northwestern Memorial. “We treat a very vast, diverse patient population and have long recognized the value of tailoring care to an individual’s unique healthcare needs. Our Patients First mission drives us to assure every patient receives the best care—period. And we think this recognition underscores that commitment.”
Northwestern Memorial was named a Leader in Healthcare Equality after demonstrating its ability to meet several key indicators for equitable care, including nondiscrimination policies for LGBT patients and employees, a guarantee of equal visitation for same-sex partners and parents, and training in LGBT patient-centered care for key staff. Only 234 healthcare facilities nationwide were recognized as leaders.
To further meet the needs of the LGBT community, Northwestern Memorial Physicians Group (NMPG) employs several physicians who specialize in the needs of gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender individuals. They strive to educate both patients and other medical providers about the unique healthcare needs of LGBT patients. They are also strong advocates for creating a welcoming environment where their patients can receive quality non-judgmental care. To learn more about NMPG’s program, visit http://www.nmpg.com/internal-
Beyond its commitment to serving LGBT patients, Northwestern Memorial also strives to provide an inclusive work environment for its employees with nondiscrimination employment policies and same-sex domestic partner benefits. An affiliate-wide networking group called the Northwestern Chicago Out Network exists for the support and encouragement of LGBT faculty, staff, students, fellows, and residents on the Northwestern Chicago campus.
University Club in Molene Refuse to Host Lesbian Wedding
The historical University Club in Molene created a stir this week. When a Taylor Shumaker, a lesbian got a tour and inquired about renting the hall, the manager Kristen Stewart said she could rent to homosexuals.
In a phone interview with WQAD, Stewart says it is all true, and defended her right to refusal.
“I am a biblical Christian and I do not
believe in homosexual marriage, that’s correct. And because marriage is a
covenant that God created for man and woman, as a biblical Christian, I
cannot help them into or celebrate that sin,” said Stewart.
Stewart is the wife of the president of the University Club, and daughter-in-law of its owners.
According to Illinois laws, this is against to law to refuse homosexuals couples!
Kristen Stewarts husband, who is President of the University Club, says his wife mis-spoke, and they WILL rent to homosexuals! – Perhaps his lawyer said he’d better correct the issue….
