Category Archives: News and Happenings
Whoopi Goldberg to Speak at Chicago House Luncheon
That surprising remark was made by Whoopi Goldberg to the audience at the Absolutely Fabulous 2002 Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgendered Pride Awards in 2002. Given Whoopi’s history of public support for gay, lesbian, and bisexual issues, and the multiple lesbian and bisexual characters she has played on film, the announcement that Whoopi is bisexual probably shouldn’t come as a big surprise.
“There was a time I played on
both sides of the street.
Now I just go straight down
the middle of the street.”
Goldberg will be in Chicago Friday, November 4, 2011
for The 3rd Annual Speaker Series Luncheon
to benefit Chicago House.
Time: 11:30am-2:00pm
Where: Palmer House Hilton, Grand Ballroom
17 East Monroe Street, Chicago, IL
GET TICKETS ONLINE
Love Sucks Comes to Chicago November
Pride Films and Plays
presents the award-winning play
LOVE SUCKS, the company’s first fully staged production
Love Sucks by Rob Mersola, a not-so-romantic comedy of bad manners, opening November 3. In Love Sucks, we follow six romantically challenged philanderers through a 48-hour maze of the bars, back seats, and bathroom stalls of New York’s Lower East Side.
Love Sucks was recently named Best Production of a Comedy by the L.A. Scenie Awards, and Backstage Magazine hailed it as “90 minutes of down and dirty fun!”
PFP Artistic Associate John Nasca directs the comedy, which features PFP Artistic Ensemble members Valerie Heckman, Cyra K. Polizzi, Chad Ryan, Kevin Webb, and guest artists Edward Fraim and Adam Habben.
Executive Director David Zak says, “We are excited to take the next step in the growth of Pride Films and Plays. With scene study classes running at Center on Halsted beginning October 6 and the Screenplay Finale Weekend at COH October 20-23, this is an exciting time of growth for us.”
Love Sucks will be performed at Hydrate, 3458 North Halsted, with press opening Thursday, November 3 at 8 pm. Show times thereafter are Friday and Saturday at 8 pm through November 26. All tickets are $15 and can be purchased at Brown Paper Tickets, or by calling 1 800 838 3006.
Director John Nasca is an Artistic Associate of PFP and co-founder and Artistic Director of Glitterati Productions. His directing credits include Gypsy, Mr. Shaw Goes to Hollywood, Beautiful Thing, The Ritz, and Moon Over Buffalo. He is also a 3-time Jeff-recommended costumer and the proud recipient of an After Dark Award. His costume work includes Vampire Lesbians of Sodom (Hartzell Productions), Anyone Can Whistle (Pegasus Players), Noises Off for producer/director Michael Leavitt, the Midwest premiere of Metropolis for Academy Award-winner Joseph Brooks, and Phantom (Porchlight). For Hell in a Handbag Productions, he designed Pussy on the House, Die! Mommie, Die!, Poseidon: An Upside-Down Musical, and Lady Ex. Other favorites include Follies, The Miracle Worker, Guys and Dolls, Chicago, Me and My Gal, The Little Foxes, Rigoletto, Annie, The Great White Hope, Tintypes, The Women, On the Waterfront, and at Drury Lane, Something’s Afoot.
About Pride Films and Plays
Pride Films and Plays, based in Chicago, links an international network of writers with professionals working in film and theater. PFP fosters excellent writing for the stage and screen that speaks not only to the LGBT community, but is essential viewing for our friends, family, and co-workers. Using stories with gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender characters or themes, Pride Films and Plays develops human stories that become a cultural bridge to understanding. Through readings, contests, classes, screenings, and full theater productions, PFP engages artists and audiences in the full developmental process needed to make great artistic experiences. For more information, visit Pridefilmsandplays.com.
Mary Chapin Carpenter in Chicago area Oct. 15th
Acclaimed singer-songwriter, fierce animal lover, and long-time activist, Mary Chapin Carpenter‘s most recent album, The Age of Miracles , is a testament that she has indeed traveled so far, as her first song,”We Traveled So Far,” says.
Mary has been a dedicated supporter of organizations including Noah’s Wish, Campaign for a Landmine-Free World, Artists Against Hunger and Poverty, and other organizations.
Her music is poetic, pure and graceful, with her charm and storytelling evident throughout. “Zephyr” is my favorite track with lyrics: “I tried to be constant just like a star / I tried to be steady and yar / But the storms keep breaking over my head / I’m aching for blue skies instead”. A good ole-fashioned country song in “I Put My Ring Back On” about giving a relationship another go. “Holding Up The Sky” poetically and tenderly expresses her experience battling her health concerns, and feeling helplessness, scared and wanting to be free from pain.
When country singer Chely Wright publicly came out, the ONLY music artist who was publicly been supportive was Mary Chapin Carpenter. Others have been so privately but apparently do not want their fans to know they are LGBT friendly…”only one of those artists — Mary Chapin Carpenter — made a public statement about my coming out,to the positive.” said Chely….. “Mary Chapin Carpenter said, ‘Chely should be commended for what she’s done.’ My other artist friends reached out to me privately and said they loved me and that they were proud of me, but when asked publicly they said no comment…”
The Age of Miracles is the twelfth studio album from five-time Grammy award-winning Carpenter, including one Grammy-winning and two Grammy-nominated albums. By combining folk, country, acoustic, rock and blues, Carpenter has proven herself to be an artist for whom the conventional boundaries of the music business disappear; she has always professed a love for all kinds of music, and those influences come together in songs that speak to the most personal of life’s details as well as to the most universal.
Don’t miss this Chicagoland appearance!
Dominican University October 15th! Get Tickets Online!
Mary Chapin Carpenter
World Gym – Voted #1 in Chicago! Try it Now For Free and Sign up For Deals
Are you looking for the best gym
in the Lakeview/Uptown area?
WORLD GYM! at Montrose and Sheridan.
And there is no better time than NOW to try them! FREE DAY PASSES available Now thru Oct. 19th to give them a try!
Memberships as low as $19!
They give the most for the best price in town.
And on Oct. 19th They are hosting an OPEN HOUSE.
-No enrollment fees
-Sweet deals
-Food and cocktails
-Free Fitness Assessments
Stop in and tell them you saw it here!
World Gym Chicago 909 W. Montrose 773-348-1212
My Private Chef at Chicago Botanical Garden for Food Network Hawaiian Food Oct 2
Chef Tong, from My Private Chef, Prepares Chef Tong’s cooking demonstration will take place on Sunday, October 2, 2011 at 1:30 and 2:30 p.m. in the Regenstein Fruit & Vegetable Garden, Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe, Illinois. Chef Tong will prepare Hawai‘i-style Chicken Curry with carmelized Apples, Pears and Bananas; served with Coconut rice. People who are casual cooks or lovers of gourmet food get to ask questions and come away with a fabulous recipe that you can try at home. Chef will give tips on preparation and serving. And, everyone gets to have a taste. The Hawai‘i Tourism Authority will be demonstrating lei making with fresh flowers and will provide coffee, tea, cacao and macadamia nut samples. Come join the fun! Admission to the Chicago Botanic Garden and Garden Chef Series is free. Parking is $20.00. For more information about this Garden Chef Series event, call 847.835.5440 or visit Chicagobotanic.org. My Private Chef is enjoying popularity as one of Chicago’s favorite private gourmet dining services. Trained in European-style fine cuisine, Chef Tong established his reputation at fine restaurants and hotels in Florida, California, and Chicago. Now he has adapted his impressive skills to the world of private entertaining. My Private Chef offers enticing cuisine for a wide range of events, from intimate dinners to weddings to corporate parties. For more information about My Private Chef, contact Event Services
a Hawaiian-Themed Dish during
Food Network Magazine FREE Weekend
at Chicago Botanic Garden.
Put on your grass skirt and Hawaiian shirt for delicious tropical food! You will learn how to prepare a Hawaiian-themed dish by Chef Christopher Tong during the
Food Network Magazine and Hawaiian Islands weekend at Chicago Botanic Garden’s popular annual Garden Chef Series.
at 773.981.8131 or visit them online: Myprivatechef.net
Coyote Art Festival in Wicker Park Sept 30-Oct 2
The Coyote is back!
Early in 2008, the Around the Coyote organization set sail on a new course. No longer was the “Around the Coyote” art festival to be an open, Wicker Park Bucktown, neighborhood festival. Around the Coyote was to transform into a professional, serious, curatorial organization, “convincing the broader art community that they have moved up in quality and that they were becoming something more edgy and interesting”.”
The end result…… early 2010, Around the Coyote “Bites the Dust”…… But the Coyote remained alive.
With the support of the neighborhood, in the fall of 2010, The Flat Iron Artist Organization brought the Coyote back by sponsoring “Beyond the Coyote”, drawing several thousand visitors to the neighborhood.
This fall the Coyote is alive in Wicker Park. We continue to honor the artistic spirit of Wicker Park Bucktown and invite you to join us September 30th, October 1st and 2nd.
$10 donation at the door.
Start at 1579 N. Milwaukee @ Flat Iron Bldg.
More than 150 neighborhood artists pay tribute to the Around the Coyote art fest with a showcase of works spanning painting, sculpture and photography. The fest also features performances, a silent auction and refreshments. Grab an event map to find out which local bars and galleries host live music, exhibits and giveaways in conjunction with the fest.
Flat Iron Artists
ALEXANDRA BILLINGS Oct 7-8, An Improvised Evening With Katharine Hepburn
DARK BLUE THEATRICALS
and STAGE 773
are proud to announce
ALEXANDRA BILLINGS !
Returning to Chicago in
“KATIE’S CORNER: LIVE!”
An Improvised Evening With
Katharine Hepburn
PRODUCED AND DIRECTED
BY SEAN ABLEY
“KATIE’S CORNER is an evening of fun, fun, fun, no matter what you go in expecting. Alexandra Billings is a masterful actress and her sustained speech patterns and overall demeanor as the aging Hepburn are deliciously & devilishly perfect.”
KATIE’S CORNER: LIVE! returns to Chicago after a previous, sold-out performance in April 2011, and extended runs in Los Angeles and Fresno, CA. The performances will feature Chicago favorites Honey West, Molly Brennan (500 Clown), David Cerda (Handbag Productions, The Joan Band), Mitchell Fain and many more surprise guests.
Performances October 7-8, @10:30pm
Stage 773, 1225 W. Belmont , Chicago IL, 60657
Box office – 773.327.5252 or Stage773.com
BestGayChicago.com
Chicago Antique Market Randolph Street this Saturday Sept. 24
The Early bird gets…the DEALS!
And helps Charity!
Chicago Antique Market Randolph Street this Saturday!
Chicago House will be on site collecting gate donations during the early buy! Early buyers get the BEST deals, and $10 in shopping vouchers!
Come early, stay late…and shop til you drop!
This European-style, indoor-outdoor urban antique market in the historic West Loop neighborhood features 200 select purveyors of high quality, amazingly priced “finds”, offering unlimited creative inspiration and hours of fun. Shoppers can find furnishings, vintage clothing, jewelry, collectibles, etc.
Early Buying for Chicago House!
Date: Saturday, September 24, 2011 Time: 8 – 10 am
Where: Randolph Street Market, 1340 W Washington
Advance Ticket: $20 Day of Ticket: $25
(PS – Whoopi Goldberg is just weeks away! Do you have your tickets yet??)
Rosie is Ready to Launch in Chicago and Moving to Lakeview!
AS YOU KNOW,
Rosie O’Donnell is now in
Chicago, filming at Harpo Studios.
At her annual Rosie Theater Kids Gala recently in New York City, O’Donnell showed off her new girlfriend, Michelle Rounds. A knockout blond with a stunning figure, Rounds is a corporate headhunter for an I.T. company, People reports. And apparently the two women share a love of coffee.
“They met at a Starbucks a few months ago,” a source tells People. “They are adorable together and are very, very happy.”
The Rosie Show debuts on Oprah Winfrey‘s OWN network on Oct. 10.
Rosie reportedly just purchased a new $2.5 million townhouse in Lakeview! 6,000 sq. foot with a huge huge rooftop. The seller is an executive at the Oprah Winfrey Network, which will air O’Donnell’s new show, the sources told the Tribune. Somoene told me Rosie accidentally got LOCKED OUT. Stuck on the roof of her new digs! She and her realtor had to shout down to passerbys on the street, to get help!
The daytime host joked about her new gal pal, onstage at her gala, that she had just bought a new red bra “with the underpants that match and everything.”
The Emmy-winning working mama has four children with her ex-spouse Kelli Carpenter, whom she married in 2004. They divorced in 2007.
“(The divorce was) humbling. And humiliating,” O’Donnell told Oprah in the October issue of O magazine. “In the O’Donnell family , no one had ever been divorced.”
BEST GAY CHICAGO has been invited to a test taping for the new show – we’ll keep you posted!
Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams Arrives in Chicago
In 1989 when the economy was unstable, Mitchell Gold and his partner, Bob Williams, naively created The Mitchell Gold Co. Since then, despite tough economic times and upheaval in the furniture industry, sales have reached in excess of $100 million. The combination of Gold’s years of marketing experience with Williams’ talents as art director set the course for Mitchell Gold and changed the furniture industry.
One of their earliest ideas, “Relaxed Design,” was based on trends they saw in the apparel industry. Designing furniture Bob Williams would want in his own home – comfortable, classic, affordable – he dressed his pieces in relaxed slipcovers of pre-washed fabrics like denim, khaki and velvet. He also addressed the need for a less-intimidating shopping experience by limiting choices to avoid confusing consumers. Along the way, Williams has received numerous awards, including Design 100 awards from Metropolitan Home magazine.
The company is now a leading home-furnishings brand, carried in such national chains as Pottery Barn, Restoration Hardware, Williams Sonoma Home, and Bloomingdale’s, as well as in more than 60 independent retailers nationwide. In addition, there is a growing chain of Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams Signature Stores – and they have arrived now in Chicago at 1555 N. Halsted, Lincoln Park, across from the new Apple store.
The grand opening happened last week was filed with hundreds of Chicago’s designers, movers and shakers. And DJ Lady Bunny. Bunny is a longtime freind of Gold and Williams and spins at every store opening.
Also there was very special guest: expert photog Tipper Gore, was there. Since moving on with her spirited journey through life, she’s had the chance to document some of the most photogenic people and places. Mitchell and Bob have decided they just love her so much, they needed to share her talent with the world, and they now carry a signed collection of her work in their stores. To celebrate Tipper’s skilled camera work and introduce her to Chicago’s interiors crowd, they’re having a 20% promotion on all of Tipper’s work.
In the mid 90’s, Gold and Wiliams lead the way in gay media advertising. They were one of the very first companies, to stand up and place major ads in LGBT media. Here was a nationally recognized furniture brand, portraying gay couples in ads! Recently, Mitchell Gold and Bob Williams received the Public Visibility Award from GLAAD for including LGBT stories in the advertising for their company Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams, and for their personal efforts to advocate for LGBT equality. “As with other forms of media, advertising has the power to change hearts and minds,” said GLAAD President Jarrett Barrios. “Companies that promote fair, accurate and inclusive images of the LGBT community in advertising send an important message to their customers, to corporations and to any consumer who sees their ads. We will be recognizing those companies that do just that, and in so doing, set a standard to which other companies may aspire.”
Also in attendance was 2011 HGTV Design Star winner Meg Caswell. Her show GREAT ROOMS airs on HGTV weekly 5pm (C) on Saturdays.
Her Design Studio is at 1242 N. Wells, is in an old firehouse with some antiques and accessories! You can see it, on some of her shows. Currently by appointment only. 773-883-6004
Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams
Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams
1555 N Halsted Street
Lincoln Park Centre
Chicago, Illinois 60642
312-397-3135
Powerful New Music Video “I Will” Released: Emotional Story Line Seeks To Stop The Stigma of HIV
This week the groundbreaking music video “I Will” made its debut at Chicago’s Jackhammer in front of a large crowd and rave reviews. Singer/songwriter Marshall Titus and Photographer/Director John Gress were on hand for a Q & A session with the night’s host Jay Lacey.
The music video was very well received and immediately went viral, having been sent to over 100 bloggers nationwide. It is hoped that the music video will be watched by tens of thousands of people over the next few weeks and start to spur discussions in gay communities throughout the country. Titus and Gress created “I Will” out of a desire to both move and educate the gay community about the tendency to stigmatize those who are HIV positive.
The music video, with the help of a very moving plot and superb acting, tells the powerful story of an African-American charecter who discovers that he is HIV positive. The video follows his initial struggle with the diagnosis and reveals subsequently the growth that happens to him through a process of self-acceptance with the love and support of his friends. The lyrics, “on this walk of faith, I will be strong, I will be brave,” mirrors the inner strength that the protagonist summons within himself to overcome his fear both of the disease and of the rejection oftentimes met with the disclosure of one’s status.
It is hoped that “I Will” will spark discussions about the tendency for gay men, out of fear to separate themselves on the basis of HIV status. This fear and division are causing many people to not get tested.
The result is that the HIV transmission rate continues to climb for gay men and shows no signs of abating. “I Will” strives to inspire gay men to stop dividing the community on the basis of HIV status. Titus and Gress hope that if fewer people live in fear, more people get tested and more people will be treated with dignity and tolerance.
Watch I WILL now on YouTube.
SEPTEMBER 21st! Stop The Stigma: A Day With HIV In America
Positively Aware magazine released a video in order to help publicize the second annual A Day with HIV in America. The national campaign features an online photo essay project focused on destigmatizing and demystifying HIV. Because whether you’re negative or positive, we are all affected by HIV.
On Sept. 21st, grab your digital camera or smartphone. Take a snapshot and capture a moment of your day. Each photo tells a story. So, get in the picture, and tell your story. Photo submissions will be posted on www.ADayWithHIVInAmerica.com. Select pictures will be published in the November+December issue of Positively Aware. Submit your photo by Sept. 26 to artdirector@tpan.com.
BestGayChicago.com
Chicago Gay and Lesbian Hall of Fame 20th Anniversary
The persons honored in 2011 are:
Eleven individuals and four organizations will be inducted in November into the Chicago Gay and Lesbian Hall of Fame, the country’s only known government-sponsored hall of fame that honors members of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) communities.
“It makes us proud that, even 20 years after our first ceremony, there are still important figures from the past and a constantly growing list of current Chicagoans whose accomplishments and community contributions merit being honored by the Hall of Fame,” said Lourdes Rodriguez, co-chairperson of the Hall of Fame Committee and of the Friends of the Chicago Gay and Lesbian Hall of Fame.
“Though municipal budget problems have restricted government financial support for the Hall of Fame this year, we are grateful that individual Chicagoans have stepped forward to assist us, through Friends of the Chicago Gay and Lesbian Hall of Fame, in maintaining a needed and historically significant institution,” said Gary Chichester, the other co-chairperson of the committee and of the Friends organization.
The Chicago Gay and Lesbian Hall of Fame was established in 1991 under the auspices of the Advisory Council, with support from the Chicago Commission on Human Relations and then-Mayor Richard M. Daley. Its purpose is to recognize the achievements of LGBT Chicagoans, their contributions to the development of the city, and the help they have received from others. In 2011, it marks its 20th anniversary, holds its 21st annual induction ceremony, and enjoys continuing status as an official recognition by city government of Chicago’s LGBT residents and their allies.
Individuals
Paul Adams (1954-2000), an early AIDS campaigner who helped form Chicago for AIDS Rights (CFAR) and turned his status as a Mr. Windy City contest winner into an effective activism vehicle. Other involvements included Open Hand Chicago, the Pink Angels anti-crime group, Chicago Anti-Bashing Network, and a press column.
Greg Cameron, 53, an arts administrator and fundraiser. He formerly served as deputy director and chief development officer at the Museum of Contemporary Art, creating partnerships with LGBT groups. He has helped lead and fund several LGBT organizations and is now chief operating officer of broadcasters WTTW and WFMT.
Antonia “Tata” Flores (1958-2008), founder in 1987 of Chicago’s Dykes on Bikes motorcycle contingent, which appears in parades as a symbol of lesbian visibility. She coordinated and hosted its activities for the rest of her life, ran lesbian-affirming nightclubs, and aided diverse community causes before her death of breast cancer.
Grant Lynn Ford, 72, a former Assemblies of God minister who became an LGBT press pioneer and a dynamic Metropolitan Community Churches pastor in the Chicago area and in Florida, where he now lives. He was founding publisher of GayLife in 1975 and ran for election as 44th Ward alderman in 1978.
Robert Garofalo, M.D., 45, a national expert on promoting the health of LGBT youth and of youth affected by HIV/AIDS. He was director of youth services and deputy director at Chicago’s Howard Brown Health Center and now directs Children’s Memorial Hospital’s Gender, Sexuality and HIV Prevention Center.
Ted Grady, 42, co-owner of Chicago’s J&L Catering, through which he has helped to underwrite and sponsor many nonprofit groups. He has also helped to lead and raise funds for such causes as About Face Theatre, Equality Illinois, and Chicago House, and he works on global LGBT issues with Chicago’s Heartland Alliance.
Marcia Hill, 53, a participant, promoter, organizer, and official of LGBT sports teams and events for almost three decades. She was a chief force in growing the Chicago Metropolitan Sports Association from about 200 members in 1983 to almost 4,000 today. She was also active in helping Chicago to host the 2006 Gay Games.
Tony Jackson (1876-1921), a pioneer in early-20th-century popular music. He brought musical influences from his native New Orleans to Chicago, gained fame as a talented and colorful performer, mentored such jazz figures as Jelly Roll Morton, wrote the 1916 hit “Pretty Baby,” and lived as an openly gay man when that was rare.
Owen Keehnen, 51, a writer, interviewer, editor, and activist. His articles have appeared in local and national LGBT newspapers and magazines, and his work includes short stories, novels, and historical essays. He has served on the board of Chicago’s Gerber/Hart Library, and a book of his interviews will appear this autumn.
Brett Shingledecker, 48, co-founder of People Like Us, which operated as Chicago’s only exclusively gay and lesbian bookstore from 1988 to 1997. The store became not only a source of books for thousands of customers but also an LGBT community information center, and it donated gift certificates to numerous organizations.
Jon Simmons (1955-1994), a city government liaison to LGBT Chicagoans under three mayors. Before being appointed by Mayor Eugene Sawyer in 1988, he had been Joseph Holmes Dance Theatre’s executive director and a freelance writer and researcher. He was found murdered in Beverly Hills, Calif., while on a 1994 vacation.
Organizations
Good Shepherd Parish Metropolitan Community Church, the first Midwestern congregation of the LGBT-oriented Universal Fellowship of Metropolitan Community Churches. Active for some 37 years, the Chicago congregation met for the last time in 2007 after serving thousands of persons who were seeking religious support.
Lakeside Pride Music Ensembles, the umbrella group for a succession of instrumental ensembles that began in 1979 with the Chicago Gay Pride Band. Today, its four major components are still helping to promote LGBT equality and social acceptance through music, frequently appearing in parades and concerts.
Friends of the Community
Jenner & Block LLP, a distinguished national law firm headquartered in Chicago, which often has represented LGBT individuals and organizations in successful precedent-setting cases, besides providing pro bono legal assistance to others and financially sponsoring LGBT charitable and community organization events.
The Night Ministry, a social service organization that is Chicago’s leading provider of emergency housing for runaway and homeless youth, of whom LGBTQ youth constitute a disproportionate (20 to 40 percent) number. It also provides them with HIV testing, counseling, and referrals.
The chosen nominees will be inducted at the Chicago Gay and Lesbian Hall of Fame’s annual ceremony, which will take place on the evening of Wednesday, November 9, at the Chicago History Museum,1601 N. Clark St., Chicago. The event will be free and open to the public.
Gay Lesbian Hall of Fame
Best Gay Chicago GAY SEGWAY Tour September 22
Join Michael and Derrick of BEST GAY CHICAGO and Absolutely Chicago Segway Tours on Sept. 22nd for an LGBT evening Segway Tour! (Photo of Steve and Drew) $10 parking available in the MILLENIUM PARK GARAGE – If you enter from the street level, the address is 337 E. Randolph Street
Something fun and different! Explore Chicago on the most original Segway tour Chicago has to offer.
The guided sightseeing tour covers 7 to 8 miles along the Chicago Lakefront. View the spectacular Chicago architecture, statues and fountains while we glide through the fragrant garden paths of Grant Park, Millennium Park, the Museum Campus, and Soldier Field.
Other highlights of this tour will be the sun setting on the skyline, viewing the skyline in all of its evening splendor is breathtaking. The buildings all look like they are highlighted in gold.
Capture the memory with the many photo opportunities of Chicago attractions along these spectacular Chicago tour routes. Invitations are being sent out all over the LGBT community – so it should be a fun networking event with a diverse group of people. Bring a friend or just make some new friends!
Segways are easy to learn and safe to ride.
This special tour is limited to 30 people.
Normally $65, this tour is being offered at $55.
Includes rentals, tour and taxes.
(gratuity to your tour guide that night is appreciated!)
Thursday, Sept. 22nd!
The tour is at 6:15 pm -8:15….People should arrive at 5:45-6:00
To make a reservation Call 312-552-5100 ask for Timmie.
NOTE – EAST MONROE GARAGE is closed.
Follow the Segway signs inside the parking structure.
Afterwards, we can swing by Downtown Bar, if people are up for it!
Dog Adoption Sat. Sept. 10 in Andersonville
Over a dozen dogs need a home, this Saturday, Sept. 10th!!
Dogs who really need
Loving and Happy Homes will be on hand and available for adoption at the event –
These dogs are all saved from Kill-Shelters and REALLY need your support!
Saturday, September 10, 2011 9:30am – 5:00pm
Famous Fido Rescue and Adoption Alliance
5430 North Clark Chicago, IL 60640 Rear Parking Lot
Please call us at: 773.907.0305
or visit us us at: Famousfidorescue.com
Big Gay Brunch Club Chicago Goes to ROY’S Sept. 18th
1st Course is a Variety of Mini Muffins With a Passion Fruit Whipped Butter
BIG GAY BRUNCH CLUB Chicago goes Hawaiian this month @ Roy’s, Sunday September 18th.
Nowhere else will you find a culinary experience quite like the flavors, textures and colors found in Roy’s Hawaiian Fusion Cuisine. Combining the freshest local ingredients with European sauces and bold Asian spices, each creation leaves you with the feeling that you’ve just found paradise.
Roy’s restaurants feature the finest seafood, with a focus on delicacies from the oceans surrounding Hawaii. Tonight you may find Ono, Opakapaka and Onaga in addition to an array of hand-cut meats, sushi and fresh shellfish—not to mention an award-winning wine list that was designed to perfectly enhance every meal.
BRUNCH is a special treat at Roy’s! The Brunch season is technically over at Roy’s but they are hosting this special BGBC Brunch just for us! Normally, BGBC says, THE MORE THE MERRIER! But for this special brunch, it is being capped at 60 people.
$36 includes food, beverages, tax and gratuity.
Main Course, you can choose from ….
Hawaiian Sweetbread French Toast w/ Candied Pecans, Blackberry Coulis
Banana Macadamia Nut Pancakes w/ Maple Syrup
Maui Wowie Salad w/ Avocado, Lemongrass Poached Shrimp, Caper Lime Vinaigrette
Hawaiian Omelet w/ Portuguese Sausage, Scallions, Tomatoes, Peppers, American cheese
Egg White Omelet w/ Scallions, Shiitake Mushrooms, Sprouts, Peppers, Bok Choy
Unlimited P.O.G. mimosas, O.J. mimosas or Bloody Marys
Offerings also include coffee, ice tea and soda
RSVP on Facebook – will be confirming reservations the week of the event.
BestGayChicago.com
Lakeview East Festival of the Arts 2011 Sept. 10-11 in Boystown
The Lakeview East Chamber of Commerce is proud to present the seventh annual Lakeview East Festival of the Arts. The Festival takes place Saturday, Sept. 10 and Sunday, Sept. 11 on Broadway Avenue, just north of Belmont. Lakeview East is a dynamic and diversified neighborhood community rich in culture, history and the arts. The Lakeview East Chamber of Commerce works hand in hand with their local residents and business owners and is pleased to offer its neighbors and the Chicagoland area with one of the premier fine art outdoor festivals. The 2011 Lakeview East Festival of the Arts showcases more than 150 juried artists featuring world class original paintings, sculpture, photography, furniture, jewelry and more. Artists in almost every medium will be represented including photography, printmaking, mixed media, ceramics, clay, collage, fiber, glass, sculpture, furniture and more. Unique and original artwork is on sale in all price ranges. In addition to the art on sale, the Festival features live demonstrations and entertainment stages where some of Chicago’s favorite musicians play throughout the weekend. This year, sculpture artist Lucy Slivnski will contribute her designs to the Chirsty Webber urban garden.
September 10 & 11 Sat 10am-6pm, Sun 10am-5pm
Along Broadway • Belmont to Roscoe
LAKEVIEW FESTIVAL OF THE ARTS
Over 150 Juried Artists Showcased!
GREAT ART • MUSIC • FOOD •Beer and Wine Garden – SCULPTURE GARDEN
Celebration of Life Planned to Honor Christina Santiago Sept. 10
On September 10th at 1pm, friends and loved ones will gather to remember and celebrate the life of Christina Santiago. Santiago was killed in the Indiana State Fair stage collapse on August 14, and is survived by her wife, Alisha Marie Brennon, who was injured in the collapse. The celebration in memory of Christina Santiago’s life will be held at the Chicago History Museum, and is open to the public. Santiago, a self-identified ‘Nuyorican’ lesbian feminist, was committed to empowering queer women of color and advocating for access to healthcare in the LGBTQ community. She was a board member and programming chair for Amigas Latinas, and worked full-time as the manager of programming for the Lesbian Community Care Project (LCCP) at Howard Brown Health Centers. Amigas Latinas, LCCP, and Howard Brown have worked closely with Brennon to plan this event. Celebration of the Life of Christina Santiago Saturday, Sept 10, 2011 at 1pm @ Chicago History Museum 1601 North Clark Street, Chicago, IL The Chicago History Museum parking lot is located at the corner of Stockton and LaSalle. CHM is also accessible by the #22 Clark bus and by the Sedgwick Brown and Purple lines. Event is open to the public. For more information, contact Marissa Ellenby at Public Communications Inc. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to several funds created in Santiago’s honor: Howard Brown and LCCP are collecting donations for two funds. The first provides assistance to Santiago’s relatives. The second supports the work of the Lesbian Community Cancer Project. (Howardbrown.org)
Restoration Hair Salon Opens 3rd Location
In 1993, Tim Weber opened his first salon at 2151 N. Sheffield in Chicago. Then came a salon in Andersonville at 5349 North Clark Street.
September 6th, Tim opens his 3rd salon, 3255 N. Broadway in Boystown/Lakeview.
“Our focus is on hair. Our goal is to restore. Our desire is to make you happy!” says Tim. “We strive to have a relaxed but professional environment. Our salons are comfortable, stylish, and reflect the creativity of our staff.”
We got a sneak peak of the new salon last night! It’s very stylish!
Tim’s Top 5 Tips For Flawless Hair
1. Get a great precision haircut.
2. Use the right shampoo for your hair type.
3. Learn to style your hair with product.
4. Get a cut every four weeks.
5. Tip your stylist well!
Restoration
Tim Weber Salons
Crystal Bowersox Returns To Chicago – One Show Sept. 17th
Packed and ready for a move to Nashville, the “Farmer’s Daughter” singer now juggles married life as the mom of an infant son, Tony, and a blossoming music career thanks in large part to her stellar performances on the show that won her praise from none other than the notoriously picky Simon Cowell.
“I’m always writing,” she said of her songwriting prowess. “The move to Nashville will just be an asset to me. I want to be there, able to access all of the talent there…and plus, our house will have a bigger back yard!”
The woman who grew up poor began shaping a music career even before she was in high school. The idea to super size her goals came about when she learned she was pregnant and wanted to “give my son everything I never had growing up.”
“I don’t really consider myself an ‘Idol’ contestant,” she said while acknowledging her gratitude to the show. “I was a performer starting at ten years old and I played gigs all over. When I found out I was pregnant, I was playing $100 gigs. I had to find a way to do what I loved and provide for my family.”
Although she’s been embraced by the country music community, Bowersox is ready to let her music muse guide her into whatever genre feels right.
“I love country and pop and rock and all kinds of things,” she said rattling off her favorite performers including Eric Church whose latest single “Homeboy” she deemed “really cool” and the New Jersey-based duo Hoots & Hellmouth.””It used to be when I was a single lady living alone whenever the moment struck me I would write. Now I write down little phrases and lines and when it comes album time, I have all these notes. Sometimes, though, songs come from somewhere else and it could be pop or country or I don’t know.”
Crystal Bowersox returns to Chicago Septempber 17th, with one show at Dominican Univerisity, Lund Auditorium, 7900 West Division St. GET TICKETS ONLINE!~
Chicago Series 2011 – 35th Annual NAGAAA Gay Softball World Series is Underway
Nine Chicago teams are participating with at least one team in each division. The softball tournament consists of 150 teams from 41 cities in North American in five divisions. Many of the athletes will sing, dance, perform sketch comedy or show other special talents, at the annual NAGAAA Talent Show. This year’s event will take place in the Grand Ball Room at the Hyatt Regency O’Hare with all proceeds to benefit the designated Series 2011 charities. Emceed by: Tajma Hall, You will not want to miss this year’s Talent Show. This will be like no other! When: August 31, 2011 Then – When: Saturday September 3 The 35th annual Gay Softball World Series (GSWS), wrap-up a week of softball and social events with a closing awards ceremony and street fair in Boystown on Saturday, September 3, from 4:00-10:00p.m. “We’re proud to partner with CMSA and the Northhalsted Business Alliance to close out a week of softball and social events in Boystown,” said Ted Cappas, President, Series 2011. Series 2011 plans to recognize all of the tournament’s championship teams during the closing event. Additionally, the Chicago Cubs (a Series 2011 sponsor) will welcome representatives from the winning teams onto Wrigley Field on Sunday, September 4 for a special recognition ceremony prior to their 1:20pm game against the Pittsburgh Pirates. That Sunday is also Pride Day at Wrigley, brought to you by the Windy City Times, a Series 2011 media partner. Admission is free for all Series 2011 participants and CMSA Members.
LAST NIGHT was the Official Opening Ceremonies for the 2011 Gay Softball WorldSeries!
The huge event was in the Grand Ballroom at Navy Pier and it is estimated there were over 4,000 in attendance!
Athletes from around the country are here for a week of games and special events. The games are taking place at three separate complexes in Schaumburg, Elmhurst and St. Charles. Organizers say the games are expected to bring in more than $5 million in business to the city.
* CHICAGO SINGER Michael Scott McBride will be sharing his amazing vocals and music which can best be described as ‘Gospirational’ with a hint of dance.
Show starts at 7:00pm
Where: Hyatt Regency O’Hare Grand Ballroom
Closing Ceremonies
SERIES 2011, INC. IS ‘TAKING IT TO THE STREETS’
FOR CLOSING STREET FAIR IN BOYSTOWN
“Final Say” and “DJ Bill Bennett” Help Wrap Up
World’s Largest Annual LGBT Sporting Event
Time: 4:00pm – 10:00pm
Where: Waveland Ave in Boystown between Halsted and Broadway
The event, which is presented in partnership with the Chicago Metropolitan Sports Association (CMSA), will take place on Waveland Avenue between Halsted and Broadway streets and feature local cover band Final Say and world-renowned DJ Bill Bennett.
“We have received incredible support from the community and are especially grateful to our co-sponsor, CMSA, and Alderman James Cappleman, who understand the significance of this event for our community and our local businesses.”
ALSO ON SUNDAY – there is a post game party event at SIDETRACK. Singer Michael Scott McBride will perform.
Sports enthusiasts and members of the LGBT and greater Chicagoland community are welcome and encouraged to attend the Closing Street Fair for a $5 suggested donation at the gate, which will benefit Series 2011 charity partners.
See more photos on
OUR Facebook Page –
get up to the date news on
GSWS Facebook Page
