Category Archives: News and Happenings

  Boystown, Gay Bars, News and Happenings

Cocktail Bar in Boystown Being Harrassed by Landlord…Cocktail Files Lawsuit….And Now Have Sold The Business


Chicago’s Boystown bar Cocktail
 is suing its landlord and two former employees for $10 million over an alleged conspiracy to ruin the bar’s good name and put it out of business.


John “Geno” Zaharakis, who owns Cocktail, and general manager Dustin Hoffman filed suit July 29. The suit alleges that the building owner and management company worked with two former employees to tarnish the bar’s reputation and oust Cocktail to open a new bar.


The suit names Robert Brumbaugh Jr., who has owned the building on 3359 N. Halsted since June of this year; Brumbaugh’s company, 3357 Halsted LLC;  also named are David Sikora, Cocktail’s former manager; Alexander Stoykov, a former Cocktail go-go dancer; and Key Management and Realty, Inc., the building’s management company, which employs Stoykov.




Windy City Media  reported that according to the suit, Sikora and Brumbaugh allegedly told Cocktail customers that the bar was going out of business.

The suit claims that “on July 22, 2011, in a face-to-face meeting with Zaharakis and Hoffman, Brumbaugh stated that, unless Zaharakis and Cocktail voluntarily agreed to move out of the Premises and surrender possession of the Premises before the end of August 2011, he, Brumbaugh, intended to destroy Zaharakis financially and put Cocktail out of business so that he and Sikora could open their own bar on the Premises.”


Brumbaugh did not respond immediately to a request to comment.


 Sikora declined to comment on the allegations.


The complaint accuses Stoykov of ruining Cocktail’s relationship with its lender of 10 years, Capital Access Network, by telling the company that Cocktail was “a terrible tenant and that Cocktail was going to be evicted.”


It also accuses Stoykov of delivering a false “ten days notice” to vacate the property on the 4th of July weekend in front of customers.

Brumbaugh and Sikora also met with Ald. Tom Tunney (44th) early last month, the suit alleges, to ask for his support in obtaining a liquor license for Sikora’s, telling him that Cocktail was “going out of business” and that he planned to evict them. Zaharakis said he was subsequently assured that Tunney told Brumbaugh and Sikora that they couldn’t apply for a license since Cocktail already has a license for that location.

HOW CRAZY IS ALL OF THIS???

The stress has been to much for Geno and Dustin. Cocktail has now been sold.

“It’s just made it all  living nightmare,” Zaharakis said. “I wish it hadn’t gotten to this, but it’s just for the best. I just need to take some time off.”

The new owner  will take over as managing partner of the bar Sept. 1 .
Then it takes the city time to transfer licenses and approve the deal. It could be a couple months before the new owner is fully in place.

The bar will continue to be called Cocktail, with Zaharakis licensing the name to the new owner, and the current staff will be retained.


“The person who’s buying it has a good track record with the community,” Zaharakis said. “He’s managed bars before  in the community.”


Zaharakis said he plans to look at owning and running a bar again after taking a break, though he’s not sure where. The lawsuit is still pending and Zaharakis said he  intends to pursue it.






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  Dance, News and Happenings, Non-Profits, Special Events, Theater in Chicago

Dance For Life Chicago 20th Anniversary Aug. 20


CHICAGO’S PREMIER
DANCE COMPANIES
featured in

“DANCE FOR LIFE”

To Raise Funds for HIV/AIDS Prevention and Services
on August 20, 2011
 
Five of Chicago’s most renowned and talented top dance companies will come together for one spectacular, celebratory evening of dance – on one stage! 

Currently honoring a milestone 20th anniversary this year, Dance for Life is the largest performance-based AIDS fundraising event in the Midwest and has raised nearly $4 million since 1992. 
 
This highly anticipated event is held annually to raise awareness and funds for HIV/AIDS prevention and care programs and is hosted by Dean Richards, Entertainment Critic and Reporter for WGN-TV (CW), Chicago; National Cable Channel, WGN America and News Talk 720, WGN Radio.




·         The Joffrey Ballet

·         Ron De Jesus Dance

·         Giordano Jazz Dance Chicago

·         Hubbard Street Dance Chicago

·         River North Chicago Dance Company






To commemorate 20 years for the event, Dance for Life will host two world premiere dances by renowned choreographers Harrison McEldowney and Randy Duncan.
 
Saturday, Aug. 20, 2011

4:45 p.m. – Gala Reception
7:30 p.m. – Dance for Life performance – Auditorium Theatre
 

$50-$75 (performance only)  
$175-$500 (includes admission to 5 p.m. gala reception and premiere seating at the performance.)

To purchase tickets, please call 312-922-5812
or visit 
Danceforlifechicago.com
 

Auditorium Theatre
50 East Congress Parkway
Chicago

Photos by SANDRO



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  Benefits, Celebrity, Film, HIV, News and Happenings, Non-Profits, Outside the City

Patty Duke in Chicago Area to benefit Open Door Clinic




 Patty Duke Live


September 18, 2011 at 2:00 P.M.


Aracada Theater
105 East Main Street in St. Charles


 Buy your tickets online now!



 


The afternoon starts with the showing of Patty’s Academy Award winning film “The Miracle Worker” After the film there will be a ‘Question & Answer’ interview with Patty.


Patty will not be signing after the show due to the ‘Meet & Greet’ after the show for the VIP ticket holders only. Photos and books signed by Patty will be available for purchase in the theater lobby.


 


General admission: $25.00 each (Includes film and Q&A with Patty)


VIP admission only: $55.00 each (60 tickets available. Includes film, Q&A and ‘Meet & Greet’ with a photo of your choice for Patty to be personalized) Patty will have many photos to choose from her collection. You may also bring items from your personal collection for Patty to sign at $20.00 per signature. You may also bring your own camera to take photos with Patty.


Light Hors D’oeuvers will be served at the ‘Meet & Greet’ with a cash beer & wine bar.


All proceeds benefit Open Door Clinic.






 

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  Art, Boystown, Center on Halsted, News and Happenings

Center on Halsted Artist Reception Aug 19th


Join us for the opening of two exciting art galleries at Center on Halsted!  Brian Hofmeister will present his collection, titled “free/ not free,” in the second floor gallery with Ron Reason displaying his collection, titled “Everything’s Going (to turn out just fine),” in the third floor art gallery space.  Both shows will run from August 19th to September 27th.

EVENT DATE     Friday, August 19, 2011     7:00 PM – 9:30 PM   $5  donation


For Free / Not Free, (left,  by  Brian Hofmeister)  “the pieces I’ve created consist entirely of works on panel, utilizing the media of oil painting, screen print and collage. The intersection of the imagery in this work, specifically birds and either corsets, text or nature, reveal for me an allegory of my exploration of beauty and my attempt to capture it.”


Everything’s Going (to turn out just fine) Ron Reason (right)

The exhibit will give a glimpse into the unusual experience of art, music, survival, fashion and fun the two Chicago residents shared at the annual Burning Man festival. (This year’s installment of Burning Man, the first ever to sell out, begins one week after this exhibit’s opening.) The festival is a unique, impromptu experiment in creating art, culture, and community, whereby an ad-hoc “city” of 45,000 pops up for one week each year, inhabiting campers, tents, and RVs in harsh federal desert land in Nevada. The by-products of the interaction of daring souls from around the world are some of the most unusual art, music and fashion seen anywhere.  

Find out More online about the artists and the event!


BestGayChicago.com

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  News and Happenings, Sports, Summer Fun

35th Annual Gay Softball World Series in Chicago Aug 29-Sept 3



It’s hard to believe that we’re just DAYS  away from the start of the 2011 Gay Softball World Series.  

Chicago is ready and excited to host you and your teammates for an incredibly memorable week!  



The 35th Annual
NAGAAA Gay
Softball World Series

Opening Ceremonies –
Navy Pier

Monday, August 29, beginning at 5:00p.m.


“We can’t think of a better venue and more picturesque setting to host the Opening for the 2011 Gay Softball World Series, said Ted Cappas, President, Series 2011. “We’ve assembled an incredible program for the evening, which will welcome our athletes and feature national and local entertainers alike.”



The GSWS Opening Ceremony will feature a top-notch talent lineup (see attached bios), including Leslie Jordan, star of the stage and screen; Ben Cohen, Rugby World Cup Champion and founder/chairman of the Ben Cohen “Stand Up” foundation; Pandora Boxx, Drag Superstar; and hometown favorites Amy Armstrong, singer and entertainer; and Matthew Harvat, DJ and event producer. 

Sports enthusiasts and members of the LGBT and greater Chicagoland community are welcome and encouraged to attend the Opening Ceremony for a $10 suggested donation at the door, which will benefit the Ben Cohen “Stand Up” foundation. 



MORE DETAILS   AT  CHICAGO SERIES 2011







The 35th annual Gay Softball World Series (GSWS), which will take place in Chicago beginning August 29, will 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. 

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.


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. 
 
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 the Ben Cohen “Stand Up” foundation. 
 
The softball tournament, which begins on Tuesday, August 30, is expected to draw 175 teams from 43 cities in North America in five divisions: A, B, C, D and Master’s.  Play occurs at three separate complexes in Schaumburg, Elmhurst and St. Charles, with the championships (Schaumburg Complex) on Saturday, September 3.

GET ALL THE DETAILS   AT  CHICAGO  SERIES  2011!

Find them on Facebook and RSVP





BestGayChicago.com


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  Benefits, HIV, News and Happenings, Restaurants and Dining, Summer Fun

TPAN Up on The Roof BBQ – Almost Sold Out! Aug. 25



On Thursday, August 25, TPAN will present 
Up On The Roof, Chicago’s premiere rooftop event. 
 
In 2010, Greg O’ Neill and Ken Miller, owner’s of Pastoral, aware that public funding of social service agencies like TPAN was drying up, created Up On The Roof as a way to help pick up the slack from the shrinking federal dollars.

“We were  huge fans of the way that TPAN works efficiently and without fanfare, so we wanted to help the organization continue to thrive despite an economic downturn,” said O’Neill. Through hard work and dedication, Greg and Ken were able to produce an event of the highest quality with virtually no cost to TPAN. The result of their labors was more money returned to TPAN to further its mission. O’Neill went on to say “Hopefully others will see that these types of events are relatively easy to organize, and will do similar events.”
 
We invite you to experience Up On The Roof,  an event created out of a true desire to be of assistance, and fueled by a passion for helping  those whose lives are most affected by HIV in the Chicago area.
 
About the event:
Up On The Roof, a gastronome’s delight, is a fundraising event benefiting TPAN that provides guests with an evening of amazing food prepared by some of Chicago’s star chefs from the top restaurants in the City, sumptuous sweets, and views of the city that are unmatched by any other event. In it’s inaugural year, Up On The Roof was a sell out and this year proves to be the same. The menu includes dishes from: The Bristol, HB Home Bistro and Old Town Social. Desserts will be provided by  Cookie Bar, Sweet Margy, Salted Caramel,  Rich Chocolates and Das Caramelini.   
 
The only thing missing from the event is you. Space is limited and reservations are going quickly. If you have not already made a reservation, do so today by clicking here.  

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  Art, News and Happenings, Outside the City, Retail and Services

Carlton Gardens…A unique Gift shop in West Michigan Just Past Saugatuck


 Saugatuck and Douglas
are filled with all sorts of little gift shops and art galleries…but once you have seen them all, then what? 

On a recent trip  to Saugautuck someone told me about CARLTON GARDENS. This is West Michigans Best Kept Secret!  But not for long!

Just about 40 minutes from the Saugatuck area, this is an amazing little piece of land, beautifully landscaped and full of all kinds of gifts and art., in Grand Rapids.

Carlton Gardens is much more than an enchanting gift shop with unusual wall hangings, floral arrangements, antiques, and garden décor—with nooks and crannies around every corner. The main house is the first stop.  Lot’s of clothes, jewelry,  purses and accessories, mostly all for women, but also lots of lamps, lights and home decor.


In the surrounding yard and gardens you with find walkways leading to a vast array of yard art, benches, baskets, and unique gifts.

Here in this acre of country hidden right inside the city are 4 gazebos, 2 ponds, 2 bridges and 9 out-buildings: the Barn, the Garden House, the Christmas House, the Potting Shed, the Outhouse, the Coop, Breton Cottage, the Apple House, and Chapel by the Bridge, complete with stained glass windows.

Gifts and trinkets and yard art everywhere. You can literally spend a couple hours here.

In fact, owner Ruth Tucker told us she encourages folks to pack a basket lunch and come on out and spend an afternoon.  One of the lovely screened gazebos has great lawn furniture inside, and shoppers are encouraged to come and hang out and enjoy this hidden gem.




While I find many of the galleries and gift shops in Saugatuck and Douglas, a bit overpriced, I found Carlton gardens  EXTREMELY reasonable!  Huge pieces of metal yard art ran $15-$350.  With many in the $60-$80 range.  It is  so beautiful and very affordable.

The property is filled with all of these little  “sheds”  and buildings, each filled with more art and more gifts!

There is even a little Halloween  building and a Christmas building.

Ruth runs the shop and keeps the grounds up with her husband John. Ruth is actually quite the trailblazer!  (Google her!) 

Ruth A. Tucker was for six years a professor of missions at Calvin Theological Seminary in Grand Rapids, and before that taught for seventeen years at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School in Deerfield, Illinois. She is the author of seventeen books, including From Jerusalem to Irian Jaya, Another Gospel, Women in the Maze and Walking Away from Faith.

Ruth was the first full-time woman professor in  Calvin Theological Seminarys 125-year history.    
In 2003, less than 3 months after Cornelius Plantinga, Jr. was installed as the new president,  “I was, without warning, removed from tenure track and given a terminal appointment. I have repeatedly asked that all the evidence be opened only to be blocked by a dishonest cover-up. When independent mediators were retained by the seminary board in 2005, they called for “retroactive pay to 2003,” among other things. That report was buried. I finished my second terminal appointment on August 31, 2006.”   Talk about an emotional roller coaster!

 


 So these days she and her husband devote all of their time to  the gift shop and all of its grounds. It really truly is enchanting! I have never seen anything like it. And I encourage anyone looking for unique gifts to give, or for yourself or your yard, make the drive to see Ruth and her amazing gardens!  Plan to spend a couple hours, and bring your checkbook. I don’t see how anyone could possibly leave this place without buying something. Four of us went to the shop and all left with bags of gifts!

Ruth said a lot of gay people have discovered her little shop over the last few years and word has been spreading. 

Her and her husband have actually had the store since 1996. But in recent years have made a lot of changes and additions. They are ALWAYS working on it. In fact, since I was there in July, they have made more changes and additions!



 And they are always getting in new merchandise.
“Much of unique yard art comes from various artists around Michigan.



Ruth says, “Sure, we sell sculptures (and chimes, bird houses, furniture, floral, baskets, pillows, paintings, clothes, collectibles, jewelry and much more). But you need not purchase a thing. Just come and enjoy our wonderful grounds. Bring a lunch and eat it in one of our four gazebos, two of them by waterfalls. Wander over the bridge into our sculpture garden where magic unfolds! 

Hope to see you soon!”

CARLTON GARDENS
3140 Breton Rd. S.E. ,  3 blocks south of 28th St. S.E.
See lots of  photos on the website  and on Facebook.
Phone: 616-974-1062
Hours: Mon-Fri: 10 am-5 pm ,   Sat: 10 am-3 pm

*PS –   While you are in Grand Rapids, you might want to visit  Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park. Comprised of 132 acres of natural wetlands, woodlands, meadows and display gardens, Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park is a year-round experience with indoor tropical, arid, carnivorous, Victorian and seasonal gardens, changing sculpture galleries with exhibitions by international artists, and outdoor acreage featuring an internationally acclaimed Sculpture Park, Children’s Garden, Michigan’s Farm Garden, amphitheater for summer concert events, nature trails and boardwalks.


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  Boystown, News and Happenings, Summer Fun

Deep Fried Twinkies and Dill Pickles!



Deep Fried Twinkies?!
and Deep Fried Dill pickles!

Oh My!

*DID YOU KNOW, Twinkies were invented in River Forest, IL. in 1930


A traditional deep-fried Twinkie involves freezing or chilling  the cake, dipping it into batter, and deep-frying it to create a variation on the traditional snack cake. It was described by a The New York Times story in this way: “Something magical occurs when the pastry hits the hot oil. The creamy white vegetable shortening filling liquefies, impregnating the sponge cake with its luscious vanilla flavor… The cake itself softens and warms, nearly melting, contrasting with the crisp, deep-fried crust in a buttery and suave way”.

The Texas State Fair had introduced the fried Twinkie to great popular acclaim, and the notion spread to other state fairs across the U.S., as well as some establishments that specialize in fried foods.







Fried pickles are a snack food found commonly in the American South. It is made by deep-frying a sliced battered dill l pickle.


Fried Dill Pickles were popularized by Bernell “Fatman” Austin in 1963 at the Duchess Drive In located in Atkins, Arkansas.   The Fatman’s Recipe is only known to his family and used once each year at the annual Picklefest in Atkins, held each May.


GET A TASTE  THIS WEEKEND  AT  MARKET  DAYS 
at the DEEP FRIED TWINKIE & DILL PICKLE BOOTH!
Located right across from Steamworks!  Where else?!




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  Boystown, Celebrity, Chicago Information, News and Happenings, Outdoors, Summer Fun

Chicago’s North Halsted Market Days 2011 Full of Surprises!


The 2011 Northalsted Market Days® will take place this weekend August 13-14, when a crowd of more than 100,000 from across the country will converge on Halsted Street to celebrate our annual event.
 
It’s the largest two-day street fair in the Midwest and lives up to its reputation as one of the country’s finest festivals!

It was recently announced  GLEE  STAR hottie Darren Criss will be here to entertain us – as well as the singing sensation Prince Poppycoock.





With temperatures expected to be 75-80, expect  BIG  CROWDS!
Other top names include  Gloria Gaynor, Lisa Lisa  and Expose.

See the full schedule online.


(check out the deep fried TWINKIES and DILL  PICKLES
across the street    from Steamworks!)


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  Music, News and Happenings, Special Events, Summer Fun

Chicago Market Days Main Event August 13th with 2 Major DJ’s



 


People always say, “whatever happened to our Saturday nights??  Why isn’t there big fun dance parties in Chicago anymore??”

Guess What??  THEY’RE  BACK!

Wild West Revolution Dance Party
The Market Days Main Event.
 Saturday, August 13. 2011

When’s the last time you played cowboys and indians? It’s been 8 years since there was a major dance party happening during Chicago’s famed Market Days weekend. The 2-day boystown street fest features over 200 vendors, 3 stages and over 175,000 hot, friendly and sexy attendees.

But come Saturday night at 10pm when all the booths close down and the bars are at capacity, where should everyone go to get their groove on and throw down on some hot bass beats and go go boy treats?

 Circuit MOM Productions is featuring superstar DJ’s ROLAND BELMARES and JOE GAUTHREAUX in a twin spinning, bucking bronco, tomahawk throwing DJ showdown at the old House Of Blues Corral.


Dust off your cowboy boots, saddle up your pony and ride on down before the doors open at 10pm to stake your claim in the dance hall. This barn dance ain’t over ’til 5am, so get ready to party ’til them cows come home.


Hey, Chicago! Tickets are only $30 in advance and you can get them at CRAM FASHION 3329 N. Broadway or at the House of Blues Box Office-329 N. Dearborn. OR CLICK HERE for ONLINE Tickets!


TICKETS WILL BE $40 AT THE DOOR on Saturday night.




***  MARK YOUR CALENDARS – Prepare yourself for THE ZOMBIE REVOLUTION
Coming Saturday, October 29, 2011
with Grammy nominated Producer/Remixer
DJ TONY MORAN   featuring a special surprise performance.
REVOLUTION CHICAGO!
Circuit MOM Productions, Inc
LiveNation and House Of Blues



BestGayChicago.com

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  News and Happenings, Theater in Chicago

Jai Von Block Brings LIFE AFTER CRAIGSLIST to 3160


 “Life After Craigslist”
Laugh your ass off, have a few cocktails and support a great Chicago Foundation at the same time!


“Is it normal to check missed connections 3-5 times a day?”- yes…says funny guy Jai  Von Block


An evening of
Sketch * Stand-Up * Musical Parodies


$15 suggested donation. Portion of the proceeds go towards the AIDS Foundation of Chicago.


Featuring:
Jai Von Block, Sarah Garner, Chanté Linwood, Abel Castro,
Jonathon Shaw on piano and Hosted by Christine Gutierrez


All 5 shows start @ 8PM

Thursday Aug. 18th, Friday Aug 19th, Saturday Aug 20th
****
ALSO   Thursday Aug 25th, Friday Aug 26th


PLACE:  Thirty-one Sixty  3160 North Clark   Chicago, IL

This show is not recommended for people with sensitive ears OR any past craigslist tricks……I’m just kidding you can come.


Invite your friends.  Find it on Facebook!

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  Dance, Deals, News and Happenings, Theater in Chicago

OVO Announces 50% off certain shows and certain seats



OVO is a headlong rush into a colourful ecosystem teeming with life, where insects work, eat, crawl, flutter, play, fight and look for love in a non-stop riot of energy and movement.

The insects’ home is a world of biodiversity and beauty filled with noisy action and moments of quiet emotion.

Currently at the United Center, OVO has announced 50% off certain tickets.  Check it out online!

The theatre/tent is smaller this time  – Ovo only uses about 75% of the tent. I don’t think there is a bad seat in the house!

Get a sneak peak of OVO online.

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  Benefits, Boystown, Gay Bars, News and Happenings, Restaurants and Dining, Special Events

MiniBar Gives Back: Chicago House July 27th



Do something great for Chicago House, just by going out to eat!


Minibar is hosting a dinner event in which 20% (before tax) of all dinner and liquor sales off the regular menu will be donated to Chicago House!



Wednesday, July 27th       5-11pm


Great drinks, great food, all for a great cause! Put together a group, and dine out for the men, women, and children of Chicago House!


We hope you can join us!


Reservations are recommended!
Call Minibar at 773-871-6227


Check out the Facebook page  and see who all is coming!



BestGayChicago.com

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  Andersonville, Gay Bars, News and Happenings

New Ownership Team Purchases Sofo Bar

4923 N. Clark Street, Inc.
d/b/a Sofo Bar (“Sofo”)
announces the completion of a transaction
under which 100% of the shares of Sofo have been acquired by Mark Robertson, Mike Sullivan,
Steve Milford and Brian Wells.

“Sofo is a terrific neighborhood bar, with a great staff and loyal customers,” says Mark
Robertson, the newly named President of the corporation. “All of Sofo’s bartenders are staying on, and we look forward to working with all of them to grow the business in the years to come.”

Milford and Wells opened Crew Bar + Grill in 2004, at 4804 N. Broadway, in the Uptown
neighborhood. Sullivan and Robertson joined Milford and Wells as principal owners of Crew in
January of 2010. Sofo will be operated as a separate corporate entity and S.W. Crew, Inc., the
corporation that operates Crew Bar + Grill, does not have any ownership interest in Sofo.


BestGayChicago.com


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  Dance, Deals, News and Happenings

Chicago Dancing Festival Returns FREE TICKETS

The Chicago Dancing Festival, co-produced by internationally renowned choreographer and Chicago native Lar Lubovitch and highly esteemed Chicago dancer Jay Franke, celebrates its 5th Anniversary season with expanded programming to include five days of free dance-related events, in venues throughout downtown Chicago, August 23 – 27, 2011. 
 
While all events are free, tickets for the indoor performance showcases must be reserved in advance.  In 2010, tickets for the Festival “sold out” within two hours of being released.
Tickets will be available to the general public beginning Tuesday, July 19 in a staggered format so that each venue releases its tickets on a different day, as follows: 
 
Tickets for performances at the Museum of Contemporary Art, including the MCA Moves programs on Wednesday, August 24 and the Muses program on Friday, August 26, will be released on Tuesday, July 19 beginning at 10:00 am.  Tickets will be available in person at the MCA Stage Box Office, 220 E. Chicago Avenue, on line at MCAchicago.org or by calling 312-397-4010.  Limit of two (2) tickets per order, per evening of performance, while available.  Any tickets unclaimed at 15 minutes prior to curtain time will be released to customers on wait list.  Wait list begins one hour before the performance, in person only.  
 
Tickets for all performances at the Harris Theater for Music and Dance, including both Moderns programs on Tuesday and Wednesday, August 23 and 24, will be released on Wednesday, July 20 beginning at12:00 pm.  Tickets will be available in person at the Harris Theater Box Office, 205 E. Randolph Street, or by calling 312-334-7777.  Limit of two (2) tickets per order.
 
Tickets for the performance at the Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University, Masters on Thursday, August 25, will be released on Thursday, July 21 beginning at 11:00 am.  Tickets will be available in person at the Auditorium Theatre Box Office, 50 E. Congress Parkway, online at http://www.ticketmaster.com/event/070046EB7F991A75 or by calling 1-800-982-ARTS.  Limit of two (2) tickets per order.
 
All seating for all venues is general admission. 
Unclaimed tickets will be released 15 minutes prior to curtain time.
 
Because of the popularity of the Festival, audience members not able to secure tickets to the indoor venues are encouraged to attend the Celebration of Dance Grand Finale on the stunning outdoor stage of the Jay Pritzker Pavilion in Millennium Park.  No tickets are required for this outdoor performance and all seating is on a first-come, first-serve basis.
 
Also, no tickets are required for the Movies program at the Chicago Cultural Center, an all-day screening of classic dance films on Friday, August 26 from 10 am to 6 pm.

FULL SCHEDULE  AT  CHICAGO DANCING FESTIVAL

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  Celebrity, News and Happenings

Rosie O’Donnell Sets up Camp in Chicago this Week at Harpo Studios

It’s been talked about since spring – now, Rosie has arrived in Chicago!

Of course, OWN will broadcast the show, which starts to air in October. (What are they doing between now and then??)


“It’s exciting for the neighborhood here, and certainly for Harpo. To have Rosie come here and do 130 original hours — it’s a lot of work. There’s a lot of energy and excitement,” Sheri Salata, President at Harpo says.


“Rosie so values Oprah’s team,” Salata goes on. “She’s thrilled to walk onto a stage that was once Oprah’s. It gives me a little tingle.”


O’Donnell has said her show will be less celebrity-focused than her prior Emmy-winning daytime show.


“The show will be about real people and real issues,” she told Oprah magazine. “I’ll focus on a single topic for one hour, things people deal with every day. Raising children. The education system in America. Autism. Relationships, health, weight, depression — and happy stuff too, of course. I envision the show being full of love and laughter.”

Rosie arrived this week at Harpo.
I wonder if she will have an apartment at Trump Tower?  (LOL)
Rosie at Trump?
Rosie NOT at Trump?





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  Boystown, Gay Bars, News and Happenings

HOUSE INFUSION at Cocktail July 20



 Hi Frequency Productions and its affiliate
Seven Presents, a Chicago based LGBT event’s production company will present
HOUSE INFUSION on July 20, 2011 from 7:00pm-2:00am at Cocktail Bar Chicago,
3359 N. Halsted at the corner of Roscoe & Halsted in Chicago’s Boystown
neighborhood.

An exciting party showcasing Chicago’s elite house music Dj’s, Go-
Go boys and tantalizing food and special libations brought to you by GRIND.

Dj Teri Bristol, Dj Carla Starla and Dj DuBCuB will spin the newest and provocative, soul stirring music that will bring everyone together.

Anthony Jay (Go-Go dancer)
will headline the stage at 10pm. Appetizers will be served at 9pm and Seven’s Signature $4 Grind (Espresso Liquor with a hint of Rum) Infusion Cocktails will be the featured beverage throughout the evening.

Other specials include $60 Veuve
bottles, table service and ½ price appetizers and salads. $5 Cover.


Event brought to you by Hi Frequency Productions,


For table service reservations and Private parties at Chicago’s premier nightclubs  email James Baptist at hifrequencyjb@ymail.com.

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  Celebrity, Chicago Information, News and Happenings

Marilyn Monroe in Chicago?



This is kind of odd, I think….. a 26-foot statue of Marilyn Monroe replicating her famous subway scene in “The Seven Year Itch,” will be unveiled this Friday at 7:00p.m. on Chicago’s Pioneer Court.  As of today the statue, by New Jersey based artist Seward Johnson is half-complete with the lower part of Monroe’s body viewable. Visitors to the plaza will see her legs, her iconic white sandals, and the skirt of her white dress as it blows in the wind exposing her “hot” panties.  The top part of the statue is carefully wrapped in a patriotic red, white and blue cloth.

Johnson, born in 1930, is famous for his trompe l’oeil painted bronze statues that although criticized for being kitsch always draw attention and controversy.  The artist’s work appears around the globe including a 25-foot version of “Unconditional Surrender,” the V-J kiss in Times Square.  Chicagoans may remember Johnson’s famous “American Gothic” sculpture that graced Pioneer Court in 2008 or his King Lear statue that spent the summer and fall of 2009 in the same spot.

The statue is located just south of the Tribune Tower in Pioneer Court at 400 N. Michigan. Visitors are welcome to view and take pictures of this striking piece of public art. Zeller Realty Group, is responsible for Pioneer Court’s installations. For more pictures of the Marilyn Monroe bronze go to the home page of WGN radio The statue is expected to remain in place through Spring of 2012.

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  FREE, Music, News and Happenings, Theater in Chicago

Broadway Show Tunes Comes to Chicago’s Millenium Park July 13

 BROADWAY ROCKS –
Part of the Grant Park Music Festival,
Wednesday July 13th. 

Summer is here and it’s time for one of the best things about living in Chicago. Free evening concerts!

Who wants to wait until Sundays for show tunes? This event will feature music from some of our favorite shows like The Wiz, Hairspray, Jesus Christ Superstar, Mamma Mia, and Tommy.

Songs lively and loud enough that we won’t get shushed by anyone this time.

So grab your blankets, lawn chairs, picnic baskets and wine as we gather to take in the scene and sing along.


Jay Pritzker Pavilion at Millennium Park

201 East Randolph Street     Chicago, IL
Concert  at about 6:30pm


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  Alternative, News and Happenings, Special Events, Theater in Chicago

MTV in Chicago to Film Live Performance of INHIBITION-LET GO, July 9th

THIS IS SOMETHING
 VERY UNIQUE –
coming to the Chicago stage…so unique, MTV is coming to Chicago to film it!

Expose Theater Company
 proudly presents their flagship production- Inhibition: Let GO!

The show, which will be in two acts, will enable it’s audience to let go of inhibitions that tie them down, including the mind, body, and soul.

Allow notable Chicago Drag Queen Tajma Hall and ASCAP recording artist Cyon Flare to set you free! Also set to perform is Andrea Eve, the upcoming pop sensation, performing her single, “Watch Out!” The show doesn’t stop there!

Teri Yaki and the Windy City Beauties, including Dida Ritz, will hit the stage with numbers that are sure to mix the emotions.
 
Burlesque dancers will be under the spotlight with their Burlesque, sultry acts.

Also set for the stage is Dolce and Gabanna DiVita, and Chicago’s hottest boys, including Anthony Jay, the adorable young man with angelic looks who performs all over Chicago, plus Pavel, Fernando, Tristan, and many more of Chicago’s hottest dancers and choreographers.

Allow yourself to be set free with an evening of raw entertainment!  (above photo…the fabulous go go God, Anthony Jay)



MTV announced today on their website that they will be coming to the Portage Theater on July 9th to
film Inhibition: Let GO!

Parts of the show will be broadcast throughout the summer on television and  internet mediums.

They said, “our cameras will be on hand as model/actress Andrea Eve makes her long awaited debut in the music industry with her live performance of her brand new single “Watch Out”.

The performance will be part of The Six Corners BBQ Fest and will feature Andrea and her dancers on the giant stage of The Portage Theater surrounded by several video screens, lighting elements and a custom built set.”




The event will begin at 7:30pm,
and last 2.5 hours.

An after-party  reception will be hosted in the lobby and foyer of the theater, with meet and greets of the cast, and  more.

Date- July 9, 2011
Time: Doors open at 6:00pm
          Show starts at 7:00pm (drag time)

Where: Portage Theater
             4050 North Milwaukee Avenue
               ( near Irving Park)
             Chicago, IL 60641

Cost: $20.00, which includes after-party. (General Admission)

For  $10 !  Ride the Venga Bus to and from plus get a couple free drinks!

There will also be an after-after party at COCKTAIL, 3359 N. Halsted,  12:30 – close. A bus will take people from the theatre to Cocktail. Party all evening – lots of drink specials!

Tickets will also be available at select locations throughout Chicago.
Buy tickets  online  now.


BestGayChicago.com



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