Category Archives: News and Happenings
Eat Right Get Fit with the Trainers from World Gym Chicago
Many gay men are obsessed with their body image.
American men spend over-
•$4 billion a year on exercise equipment and health club memberships
•$3 billion on grooming aids and fragrances
•$800 million on hair transplants
•$1 BILLION on male cosmetic surgery procedures, procedures such as pectoral implants, chin surgery, and penis enlargement and procedures such as liposuction and rhinoplasty (nose jobs).
A Playgirl centerfold model of 1976 would need to shed 12 lbs of fat and gain 27 lbs of muscle to be a centerfold of today! OK- we get – many of us are obsessed!
But if you have a desire for a great body – what are you doing about it? And do you know what you are doing?
Are you eating sensible and healthy??
I can’t tell you how many guys I see at the gym, spending as much as 2 hours a pop working out – then eating garbage food.
Or my favorite, the guy who is on a treadmill with his coffee in one hand and his cell phone in the other!
You have to eat right. It’s about learning to control caloric intake throughout the year, in addition to working out. It is a lifestyle adaption, and many people don’t follow through or don’t have the knowledge to make the right decisions.
We could write pages and pages of nutritional tips – and that’s what well do in coming months, so this is just the tip of the iceberg. Some of the trainers at World Gym of Chicago on Montrose shared their thoughts and expertise and a few tips.
I like World Gym because of its comfortable atmosphere. The owner says, “World Gym is not a “health club”, but a gym dedicated to the improvement and maintenance of our members’ health and fitness.
Our philosophy is not to enroll hundreds of new members, induced to sign up by an endless string of “special offers”…but to build a strong base of loyal members and work hard to earn that loyalty in continuum. We have found that this philosophy has created an environment where men and women of all ages, from the “just getting started” to the “top athlete,” all exercise in a comfortable, non-frantic atmosphere. We are a result producing, not stress producing, gym.”
So here we go – 5 quick tips and pointers –BASIC RULE #1: Our body weight is determined by the amount of energy that we take in as food and the amount of energy we expend in the activities of our day.
In basic terms, you can not eat more than you expend. OR you must burn more than eat. And you have to make healthy choices when you eat. You can’t consume buckets of sugar and fat and expect to get lean and build muscle.
When it comes to Protein; Drink whey protein 20 minutes before a meal. The Minnesota Applied Research Center in Minneapolis found that the protein consumption caused a much greater loss in body fat than the placebo. The whey protein maintains blood sugar levels, which decreases appetite. And, the protein provides the building blocks your body needs to recover from your exercise program.
You can have TOO MUCH protein. The next time you urinate, take a gander into the toilet bowl. I’m serious.
Now tell me if your urine is bubbly and has a frothy consistency. Like beer.
If you’ve been supplementing your diet with protein in line with a bodybuilding routine, I’m going to bet you that chances are, you have bubbly urine. Now what does bubbly urine imply? proteinuria.
Proteinuria is a medical condition whereby too much protein is ingested for the body to utilize. The kidneys then work overtime to filter out this excess protein, and out it goes through your urine. Excess protein = bubbly urine.
2. Go nutty for nuts. Nuts are high in calories and fat – so it might seem strange that they’re a great weight release food. But they are. Researchers from Purdue University found that nuts are high in nutrients and antioxidants, that they help prevent degenerative diseases and that they are linked to reduced body fat. Nuts prevent hunger (consume a handful before going out to eat!), and they take a long time – and lots of energy – to digest. This research is providing new support for the caveman diet – which holds that we should eat nuts, berries, vegetables, lean meats, etc. – just like our ancestors.
3. Green tea is a fat loss miracle. Research from Maastricht University in Holland is making me a green tea believer. Green tea promotes weight release, weight maintenance, improved blood sugar regulation and even decreases abdominal fat! Of course, green tea doesn’t do it alone – you need to combine it with a comprehensive exercise and nutrition program.
4. SUGAR. Eat foods that are low on the gylcemic index. The glycemic index measures how fast certain foods increase blood sugars. Foods like white bread are very high on the index, and foods like whole grains are ranked much lower. Those foods that are high on the index seem to trigger fat storage – though researchers aren’t quite sure why. Here’s a list of how some of the most common foods rank .
5. SLEEP. Poor sleep = increased abdominal fat. Researchers from Wake Forest embarked on a multi-year study and found that too little – or too much – sleep led to increased risk of obesity and abdominal fat. 6 – 7 hours a night was found to be ideal.
THANKS to the trainers at
World Gym of Chicago !
With 7 locations!
Some recommended reads:
Chicago Red Dress Party is Just Weeks Away!
Chicago’s First Annual Red Dress party! a national event that draws over 800 attendees per city to create awareness and visibility for raising funds dedicated to the research and care of HIV/AIDS patients. Sure to be one of the most dynamic events of the year, this acclaimed event will feature international entertainment – including recording artist Kristine W. and Chicago’s very own Miss Foozie. Hosted by Marcus Riley (NBC) and Candace Jordan (Candid Candace) the event will be taking place at 525 W. Monroe St., compliments of Tishman Speyer Properties. The Chicago Red Dress Party is honored to have named AIDS Foundation of Chicago and Equality Project as the official beneficiaries.
WHAT WILL YOU WEAR????
As a strict requirement: all attendees must wear red. In honor of the “Red Dress” – everyone is encouraged to attend wearing a red dress – even men are invited to join in on the fun!
Date: April 16, 2011
Time: 8:30p.m. – 2:00a.m.
(VIP Admission: 8:30p.m. | General Admission: 9:00p.m.)
Venue: 525 W. Monroe St.
Tickets: General Admission: $80 | VIP: $150 | VIP Exclusive: $1000
More info here: www.chicagoreddressparty.org/tickets
The History….While it’s hard to trace the roots of a long-standing tradition, we’ll do our best to bring you the history of this grand standing event. In the early 1990’s, two gentlemen were dating when they both contracted HIV/AIDS. To show their love and dedication they vowed that when one of them passed away, the other would attend their funeral adorned in a red dress. From this promise the concept of the Red Dress Party began. Currently there are Red Dress Parties all over the United States from Seattle, Washington to Chicago, IL. Oh and yes… You must wear your best red attire to attend!
BestGayChicago.com
Anti-Gay Rev. Byron Brazier Joins Rahm Emanuels Team
Chicago mayor-elect Rahm Emanuel’s transition team cochairs include the Reverend Byron Brazier (pictured), whose denomination denounces homosexuality.
The transition team has no LGBT people among its cochairs, but it does have a minister from an antigay religious denomination…..should we be worried?
“We look forward to working with the team of co-chairs to help identify the priorities for the city of Chicago, including the priorities of the LGBT community, and figure out a path to addressing them as soon as the mayor is in office,” Cherkasov said.
Brazier’s presence on the transition team is an eyebrow-raising choice, however. Brazier’s father and the previous pastor of the Apostolic Church of God, the late Bishop Arthur, supported the Federal Marriage Amendment. Additionally, the church is affiliated with the Pentecostal movement, which generally condemns homosexuality as sinful.
Rev. Irene Monroe, coordinator of the African American Roundtable of the Center for Lesbian and Gay Studies in Religion and Ministry at the Pacific School of Religion, said Emanuel’s selection of Brazier while not including any LGBT co-chairs was an intentional, and troubling, choice.“It is a great concern,” Monroe said. “Why that particular church when there are so many progressive churches he can choose from?
Monroe added that the inclusion of Brazier reminded her of Obama’s inclusion of anti-gay leaders in his team: “I think what bothers me most about that is that progressives like Rahm and Obama don’t mind taking LGBT money for their campaigns and don’t mind our vote, but when it comes to full-throated advocacy, they invariably either let us down or leave us waiting like this time is never the right time for them to hit these particular issues.”
What Exactly Does the Center on Halsted Do?
I am really amazed when I talk to friends here in Chicago who really have no idea of what goes on at the CENTER ON HALSTED . They just think it’s a place to hang out and have no idea of what the Center has to offer!
Everyone should sign up for their monthy newsletter . And from time to time, we’ll provide a snapshot of some of the months highlights. There really is something here for everyone!
For March –
“When Romeo Was A Woman,” a presentation of the Out at CHM series
Thursday, March 10, Cocktails at 5:30 p.m. event at 6:30 p.m.
$12/ $10 students/CHM members
Charlotte Cushman, 1816-1876, was the nineteenth century’s most famous cross-dressing and woman-loving actress. Her performance of Shakespeare’s star-crossed lover was legendary, and she wowed male and female audiences alike at local theaters, like McVicker’s in Chicago, during her American tours. Join cultural historian Lisa Merrill for a behind-the-scenes look at how spectators and critics talked and wrote about sexuality on stage. Jill Austin, museum curator, will begin the program with a brief introduction to LGBT-related life and themes in mid-19th-century Chicago. About Face Theatre Artistic Director Bonnie Metzgar and the Laramie Project’s co-author Leigh Fondakowski will join the discussion to talk about how gender-bending pioneers continue to impact our stages.
Speed Dating for Men 21+
Thursday, March 10, 7PM $12 at the door
Looking to date, make friends or to meet that special someone? It’s time for some real-time, fun-time speed dating at Center on Halsted. You will have an opportunity to meet everyone and leave with contact information for your matches! Cash bar opens at 6:45 PM.
a conversation with Atty. Ray Koenig
Tuesday, March 15, 6:30PM FREE
Beginning this summer, Illinois will offer civil unions to same-sex couples. Hear from legal expert Ray Koenig about what this will mean for you—whether you have partnership arrangements or not.
Ray J. Koenig III, is a member in Clark Hill’s Litigation Practice Group in its Chicago office. He practices in the areas of probate litigation, trust litigation, fiduciary litigation, elder law and estate planning. Ray has represented individuals, families, financial institutions, medical institutions, and governmental organizations in all areas of his practice. Ray has extensive trial, appellate and mediation experience in state and federal courts.
Ray is frequently appointed Guardian Ad Litem and defense counsel by judges in guardianship cases, and has been appointed Special Administrator in probate matters. Ray has also been appointed Special Assistant Attorney General in numerous matters. Ray served on a task force formed by the Commissioner of the City of Chicago Department on Aging to develop and draft legislation to significantly revise the Illinois Elder Abuse and Neglect Act.
Introduction to PowerPoint
Begins Thursday, March 17, 10AM (3-week series) $15. Sliding scale available.
Call (773) 661-0730 to register. Pre-registration required.
This class is designed for the beginning PowerPoint user and includes: creating a presentation, working with text in slides, working with slides, using design templates, different presentation views, and printing presentations.
Thursday, March 17, 6PM FREE. Pre-registration required.
Interested in a night of fine dining, smooth live jazz, and apple martinis –and getting home by 10pm? Want an alternative to your traditional St. Patty’s Day celebration? Then come on out for the SAGE Early Bird Jazz Supper Club. Bring a date, rendezvous, or live on the edge and meet someone new! Come for the sumptuous cuisine prepared by Center on Halsted’s “What’s Cookin’” program and stay for our three sassy song stylists and apple martinis. Space limited to 36.
Bisexual Movie Night
Monday, March 21, 7PM (3rd Mondays)
A casual, FREE movie night with popcorn and refreshments.
SAGE Women’s Creative Writing
Thursday, March 24, 6PM (Thursdays weekly)
Experienced facilitator from Northwestern University will guide the group through expressions of self through poetry, fiction, and journal writing. Class is limited to 15; please call or e-mail (773) 472-6469 to register.
Speed Dating for Women 21+
Thursday, March 24, 7PM $12 at the door
Looking to date, make friends or to meet that special someone? It’s time for some real-time, fun-time speed dating at Center on Halsted. You will have an opportunity to meet everyone and leave with contact information for your matches! Cash bar opens at 6:45 PM.
Legal Clinic at Center on Halsted
Tuesdays 4PM-7PM and Wednesdays 6PM-8PM
(please call to make an appointment)
Center on Halsted’s free legal clinic allows LGBT and Ally people to speak one-on-one with a licensed attorney about their specific legal concern and receive appropriate information and referral options. There is no fee for this service. For more information or to make an appointment, please contact 773.472.6469, ext. 290.
This is just a small glimpse into the Center on Halsted. Every day more than 1,000 visitors, participants and clients walk through the doors of Center on Halsted. Come experience the richness of their theatre, gallery exhibits and cultural programs. Take a class in the Computer Technology Center or use the free wi-fi throughout the building. Be a part of The Center .
Deep In A Dream: The Long Night of Chet Baker March 19-20
has played at The Castro Theater in San Francisco, CA and at Chicago’s famed Green Mill in 2009.
New York Times Best Selling Author James Gavin will be joining with some of my favorite artists and the author himself to celebrate in spoken word and music Deep In a Dream, James Gavin’s biography of jazz giant Chet Baker.
James Gavin, a contributing writer to the New York Times since 1992, has been published in Vanity Fair, New York Magazine, TV Guide, JazzTimes, Town & Country, and other periodicals. His second book (DEEP IN A DREAM) went into its second printing in its first five weeks. It has been covered in the London Times, the New York Times, Entertainment Weekly, the Wall Street Journal, and numerous other publications.
James Gavin has been interviewed on NPR a dozen times, including by Terry Gross, and will do his fifth interview for the BBC this month. The European printing of “Deep In a Dream” will appear in October. James Gavin has been featured on television from Coast to Coast, as well as over one hundred newspaper reviews in support of Deep In a Dream. He has written liner notes for over 300 albums, including Ella Fitzgerald: The Legendary Decca Recordings, which won Gavin a Grammy nomination in 1996. Gavin recently wrote STORMY WEATHER: The Life and Music of Lena Horne which was nominated for an NAACP Image Award in 2010.
Celebrate Chet Baker on Saturday, March 19 (6:30pm) at Katerina’s Supper Club
(1920 W Irving Park Rd, Chicago, IL)
Deep In A Dream: The Long Night of Chet Baker A narrated concert featuring the author of Deep In A Dream, James Gavin. Featuring vocals by Spider Saloff with Dennis Luxion, piano, Art Davis, trumpet
RESERVATIONS REQUIRED BY CALLING 773-348-7592
ALSO – On Sunday, March 20th (4pm to 6pm) the Salon Series. Best-selling Author James Gavin. Gavin will discuss and then open up an interactive Q & A as he leads discussion and remembers American icon, Lena Horne and jazz star Chet Baker.
Tickets officially tickets available now online for March 20th featuring James Gavin with special guest Spider Saloff
More details at KMP
Best Gay Chicago.com
Ellen DeGeneres to do The Ride for AIDS Chicago
Someone on
Facebook revived BETTY WHITE’S CAREER
for Gods sake! This is the power of the people in the 21st century!
Local entrepreneurs and fundraisers Jason Mora and Michael Ross Steffen are once again doing the Chicago Ride For AIDS this year. And this year, they are asking out and proud lesbian ELLEN DEGENERES to join their team!
Through a Facebook campaign, you can join in the fun! ELLEN RIDE FOR AIDS .
Come on ELLEN! Come to Chicago and Ride with us!
Best Gay Chicago.com
Borders and Bankruptcy – Six Stores to Close
BORDERS START CLOSING DOWN.
Borders Books and Music is in fact filing bankruptcy and this means bad news for Chi-town bookworms—but potentially good news for those who are into electronics. (HHGregg is coming to Chicago and taking over some of the Borders stores.)
Borders has almost 30 stores in Chicago, the surrounding suburbs, and nearby Indiana. Of the more than 200 nationally that will be closing, 6 are in Chicago proper: 6103 N Lincoln, 4718 N Broadway, 755 W North, 2817 N Clark, 1539 E 53rd, 2210 W 95th.
The only Borders Superstore location to remain open in this spree of closures is the store adjacent to Block 37, Macy’s, and the now vacant Loehmann’s at the well traveled intersection of State Street and Randolph.
Kenneth Cole closed it’s Michigan Ave. location recently but yet, TED BAKER opened on Rush last week!
So You Wanna Be a Designer, online fashion reality show
WHAT: Aspiring designers, fashion-forward creatives and those who think their stylish imagination and originality are a cut above the rest are welcome to apply today for ‘So You Wanna Be a Designer, a Kenmore Live Studio online fashion reality show.
If you’d like to appear on So You Wanna Be a Designer to take the ultimate designers’ journey and compete for the chance to show your work to fashion insiders and a captive online audience, the time to apply is now.
Hosted by Debbie Jagel and broadcast on Facebook, the show will expose six selected contestants to top designers, stylists and photographers as they learn the ins and outs of the fashion business and compete for a grand prize of $20,000 and a Kenmore Elite laundry pair.
If you’ve dreamt of making it in the fashion world, this is your opportunity to showcase your skills in a new, online approach to reality competition. Invitations for contestants, which will take place in Chicago, will be issued in March.
WHEN: Apply Now through – March 4
WHERE: To apply, visit facebook.com/kenmore and click “Be a Designer” on the left hand side of the page.
Kenmore Live Studio is at 678 N. Wells Street (312) 265-0871
WHO/ INTERVIEW: In-studio interview with host Debbie Jagel, Chicago fashionista and boutique owner, about the show (alternative: at Kenmore Live Studio)
Best Gay Chicago.com
Chicago Takes Off Lido Paris Style, March 5th
Chicago Takes Off is the annual burlesque revue-style show where talented male and female dancers donate their time and energy to strut their stuff in support of TPAN. Colorful and energetic choreographed performances and entertainment engage audiences in this sexy celebration of life.
LOADED with entertainment this year, it’s going to be a great show! Murray Hill , dubbed as “the hardest working middle-aged man in show business,” will be making his second appearance as emcee on March 5 for the Test Positive Aware Network’s fundraising event Chicago Takes Off: Lido des Boyz, presented by Macy’s.
The New York Times anointed Murray “Downtown’s New ‘It’ Boy.” He’s been included in “Best of New York” lists in the Village Voice, Paper and New York Magazine; inducted into Paper’s Nightlife Hall of Fame; and selected as OUT magazine’s Top 100 influential performers. “Mr. Showbiz” will share his return appearance with famed burlesque performers Michelle L’Amour, Frenchie Kiss and Stage Door Johnnies.
The theme for the 2011 Chicago Takes Off is modeled after the famed Lido cabaret in Paris.
Glamorous costumes for the men will be eye-popping this year! “When TPAN first approached me about the show Todd said they were looking for big over the top Las Vegas Glamour but interpreted for the Male lead, and that he thought I might be the right man for the job,” says designer Ramsey J. Prince . “I smiled and said I am the ONLY man for that job!”
I recently got a sneak peak from Ramsey Prince!
These are some of the Las Vegas/Lido style costumes
some of men will be wearing!
Performances are Saturday, March 5,
with shows at 7:30 p.m. and 10:30 p.m.,
at the Park West, 322 W. Armitage.
“This event has grown in popularity—and notoriety—in just a few years,” said Rhett Lindsay, TPAN’s associate director of special events. “We sell out each show every year with more than 1,400 attendees.” To date, Lindsay said that more two-thirds of the tickets have been sold for the 2011 performances.
Get your tickets now online !
7:30 show is almost entirely sold out
10:30 show has a few more seats available
Best Gay Chicago.com
Circo Aereo Comes to Chicago March 4th!
astonishing virtuosity,
subtle humour,
breaking of boundaries,
experiences, challenges,
energy, sensibility,
surprises, strength,
courage, creativity, contrasts…
CIRCO AEREO!
Circo Aereo is an international contemporary circus group from Finland. Circo Aereo is based in Finland and France but the troupe frequently performs around the world and they are making a stop in the Chicagoland area this Friday, March 4th! At Dominican University in River Forest, just minutes from downtown!
Currently one of the most active Finnish groups in terms of performing abroad, Circo Aereo is among the flagships of Finnish cultural exports.
In the past few years, Circo Aereo’s productions have been a major factor contributing to the rise of Finnish contemporary circus internationally. Active since 1996, the group has visited several distinguished festivals and theatres in around 30 countries.
Circo Aereo’s barrier-breaking and open approach to the various forms of the performing arts mesmerises and astonishes audiences throughout the world.
Circo Aereo’s extensive production includes an array of very different works. A joint creation of Circo Aereo’s founders Maksim Komaro and Jani Nuutinen, Super 8 (2004) combines variations of traditional magic tricks, Super 8 films and visual comedy.
Produced with a human touch and on a human scale, its performances aim to get close to the audience and their emotions. Indeed, communication with the audience and the creation of unique experiences are fundamental values for the group. Circo Aereo’s understated but highly charged style embodies a search for the quintessential and a careful selection of the ways of expression.
Don’t miss this rare opportunity to see a show of this calibre inChicago!
GET TICKETS ONLINE !
Dominican University
@ Lund Auditorium
7900 West Division St.
River Forest, IL
Virgin Airlines and Ohare! FINALLY, Class and Luxury air comes to Chicago
After a three year wait,
Virgin Airlines comes to Chicago!
Last week Virgin offered West Coast tickets from Chicago on Groupon for pennies! Needless to say, it sold out in under 8 minutes! (In its only promotion thus far, deal-provider Groupon offered its subscribers in Chicago, L.A. and San Francisco round-trip Virgin vouchers valued at $77 for just $7
!)
But there is another sale going right now, as an introductory offer. Sale ends on the 21st though – so hurry! Virgin is offering $99 one way fares from Chicago to San Francisco and Los Angeles with service starting May 25th.
Virgin America is not planning any New York flights to Chicago.(DAMN IT!) It already has routes between New York, Los Angeles and San Francisco, but the chief executive said he wants to build up the carrier’s West Coast business before adding routes from Chicago to the East Coast.
I am so sick and tired of riding in crappy beat up planes and sitting in seats with no pads left in them! VIRGIN will be a breath of fresh air! “We’ve stocked our magnificent flying machines with everything your little heart could want. On-demand movies? Check. Tasty bites and satisfying libations? Check. In-flight Wi-Fi? Check. An enjoyable ride you’ll actually look forward to? Check and doublecheck.”
YEE HAW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
BestGayChicago.com
Chicago Restaurant Week February 18-27
For ten days, over 200 restaurants will offer special prix fixe menus starting at $22* for lunch and $33/$44* for dinner. Take this opportunity to discover new dining hot spots and re-visit a few of your favorites.
Participating restaurants may offer Restaurant Week menus for lunch, dinner or both – at their discretion. Please view individual restaurant profiles for menu details .
*Beverages, tax and gratuity are not included
Tax Free Shopping at Michael Kors and More Feb 19-21
Shop “TAX-FREE” at over 40 of your favorite stores including J.Crew, MaxMara, Club Monaco, Michael Kors, L’Occitane, Diesel, Galt Toys + Galt Baby, Karen Millen, Original Penguin, Intimacy Bra Fit Stylists, space519 and MANY MORE. Click below for a complete list of participating retailers.
As a Presidents’ Day bonus, you can park at a special “Alexander Hamilton” rate – only $10 for the entire day. Parking tickets must be validated with any purchase.
Feb 19-21, 2011
Click on the image, save it and orint it!
Center on Halsted’s Oscar Party Coming February 27th
JUST DAYS AWAY!
Experience The Center like never before as they transform Center on Halsted into Chicago’s premiere Oscar Night hot spot.
Walk the Red Carpet and browse auction items before lounging in the heated rooftop tent.
Enjoy cocktails and a buffet with friends while the Academy Awards stream live in their private theater and on monitors throughout the third floor.
Attire is fun & fabulous!
6pm: Red Carpet Pre-Show & Silent Auction
7pm: Academy Awards Telecast
Get your tickets for this fabulous annual party !
Producer Tickets: $125 each.
Includes reserved cabaret seating in the theater and open bar table service throughout the night.
Cabaret tables can accommodate 4 guests each. Call Jacob Kosior, Director of Special Events, at 773.661.0788 for seating options if your guests are purchasing their tickets separately or require other accommodations.
Director Tickets: $75 each.
Includes Red Carpet access, buffet and open bar, with seating and viewing options throughout the third floor
Garage parking is available at 808 W. Addison as is street parking.
Parking will NOT be available in the underground Whole Foods parking facility.
Best Gay Chicago.com
Chicago Takes Off for Charity March 5th
Chicago Takes Off
is the annual burlesque revue-style show where talented male and female dancers donate their time and energy to strut their stuff in support of TPAN . Colorful and energetic choreographed performances and entertainment engage audiences in this sexy celebration of life.
LOADED with entertainment this year, it’s going to be a great show! Murray Hill, dubbed as “the hardest working middle-aged man in show business,” will be making his second appearance as emcee on March 5 for the Test Positive Aware Network’s fundraising event Chicago Takes Off: Lido des Boyz, presented by Macy’s.
“Mr. Showbiz” will share his return appearance with famed burlesque performers Michelle L’Amour, Frenchie Kiss and Stage Door Johnnies.
In addition to the 130 volunteer performers and dancers, the show will also feature eclectic and magical stunts and acrobatics by The Midnight Circus, vocals by Black Betty’s lead singer Molly Callinan, modern dance by Fabrice Camels of Joffrey Ballet Chicago, and a special appearance by NBC Chicago’s LeeAnn Trotter and Alex Perez.
“We’re excited to bring such a wide variety of entertainment to one stage to benefit TPAN,” said Todd Kiech, co-producer of the event. “Our performers, crew members and technicians are providing a lot of talent (and some tiny costumes) to benefit this valuable community organization.”
In its fifth year, Chicago Takes Off has developed into a first-class variety show with classic burlesque elements, according to Keith Elliott, co-producer.
Glamorous costumes for the men will be eye-popping this year! “When TPAN first approached me about the show Todd said they were looking for big over the top Las Vegas Glamour but interpreted for the Male lead, and that he thought I might be the right man for the job,” says designer Ramsey J. Prince . “I smiled and said I am the ONLY man for that job!”
The theme for the 2011 Chicago Takes Off is modeled after the famed Lido cabaret in Paris. Performances are Saturday, March 5, with shows at 7:30 p.m. and 10:30 p.m., at the Park West, 322 W. Armitage.
“This event has grown in popularity—and notoriety—in just a few years,” said Rhett Lindsay, TPAN’s associate director of special events. “We sell out each show every year with more than 1,400 attendees.” To date, Lindsay said that more two-thirds of the tickets have been sold for the 2011 performances.
In addition to the volunteer cast and production crew, the benefit committee comprises more than 20 volunteers, 27 executive producers, and 15 host committee members/table captains.
Tickets range from $50 to $300 and can be purchased online at chicagotakesoff.org . If you’re unable to attend the event, but wish to support TPAN’s mission of providing HIV/AIDS services and programs in Chicago, raffle tickets can also be purchased and donations can be made online.
Macy’s has joined the event as the 2011 presenting sponsor; other sponsors include: Amalfi Hotel Chicago, Broadway Costumes, CoCo’s Heirloom Treasures, Frost, HMS Media, Orbitz, Park West, Paterno Group, Ramsey J. Prince Designs , Steamworks, and Visceral Dance Center.
Media sponsors are: BOI magazine, BestGayChicago.com , Chicago Reader, ChicagoPride.com, Comcast, Fusion Radio Chicago, GRAB magazine, MTMChicago.com, NBC Chicago, Nightspots magazine, Positively Aware magazine, Time Out Chicago, and
Windy City Media Group.
DON’T MISS THIS EVENT!
Chicago Takes Off
‘Piano Men’ performs Billy Joel, Elton John hits February 19
Jim Witter will bring his hit
show “The Piano Men”
a musical journey through the 70s, featuring the hit songs of Billy Joel and Elton John to Moraine Valley Community College on Saturday, February 19, at 7:30 p.m. The show will be in the Dorothy Menker Theater in the Fine and Performing Arts Center, on campus, in Palos Hills. – Just minutes from downtown Chicago! Tickets are $25 for the general public, $20 for seniors and $15 for students.
Recording artist Jim Witter and his band will lead the audience on a tour of an entire decade of classic hits that begins with Elton John’s 1970 ballad “Your Song.” From there, the show will wind through a musical time machine with performances of “My Life,” “Candle in the Wind,” “Rocket Man,” “Just the Way You Are,” and many more. Using rear-screen projection, images of newspaper headlines, automobiles, people, events, toys, and even TV shows that shaped the ’70s will appear on the backdrop.
Witter is a country music and contemporary Christian recording artist in Ontario, Canada, where he lives, and Nashville, Tennessee. He has had 10 top ten radio hits in Canada, seven hit videos on Country Music Television, and chart action in the United States on Billboard and R&R. He has earned multiple awards and nominations from the Canadian Country Music Association, the Juno Awards and the Dove Awards in Nashville.
A few years ago, Witter developed the concept for “The Piano Men” because his mentors were Billy Joel and Elton John. The multi-media rock musical has received rave reviews from music critics across North America, and Witter has plans to take the show to London and Japan.
Tickets for “The Piano Men” and other upcoming performances can be purchased at Maraine Valley , by calling (708) 974-5500, or at the Box Office located on the south end of the Fine and Performing Arts Center. Moraine Valley Community College, 9000 W. College Pkwy., Palos Hills, IL 60465-0937
Best Gay Chicago.com
El Mariachi Unviels New Menu and Promotions
a new menu and
Special Valentines Promotion!
Join El Mariachi Tequila Bar & Grill on Valentine’s Day weekend!
In addition to their full menu, they have a fantastic 3 course menu for two for $40 Saturday, Sunday and Monday of Valentine’s Day weekend.
On Monday February 14th they will also be serving a complementary chocolate fountain for diners. PLUS, get half price margaritas on Monday!
Established in 1996,
a father and his 2 sons opened a small 10-table restaurant in the Boystown/East Lakeview community.(which is still there!) El Mariachi has gradually grown over the years by following a strict policy of only serving top quality, authentic dishes and Awesome margaritas.
The restaurant steadily grew in popularity with the support of loyal patrons who loved the families recipes of authentic food.
At the newest location, El Mariachi Tequila Bar & Grill, they offer a much bigger menu, fresh tableside guacamole that is made to order and an extensive selection of over 175 tequilas! (all 100% Blue Agave). This makes it the biggest tequila bar in Chicago!
And the owners pay strict attention to what diners like. Next week, they will unveil their NEW menu. Don’t worry, all of your favorites will still be there. “We keep track of what is the biggest hits on our daily specials,” says Tony, one of the two brothers in charge at the restaurant. “And we took all of those new favorites that customers really liked and added them to the menu.”
Adrian the other brother, prides himself on quality management. “We pride ourselves on selecting quality ingredients and not skimping to save a few pennies, like some restaurants might do. And we watch the restaurant very closely and listen to what the customers tell us for feedback.”
BE THEIR FRIEND/FAN ON FACEBOOK
AND GET THE SPECIAL SCOOP ON PROMOTIONS ONLY FOR THEIR FACEBOOK FANS !
AND CHECK THIS OUT! Go to Restaurant.com and get a deal!
$10 Gift Certificate for $5 or a $25 Gift Certificate for $17.50
El Mariachi Tequila Bar & Grill 3906 N Broadway Ph. 773.549.2932
Mon-Thurs. 5:00pm-11:00, Fri. 5:00pm-12am, Sat. 11:00am-11:00pm, Sun.11:00-10:00pm
El Mariachi Restaurant – Original 3420 N Broadway
Ph. 773.549.7020 open 11-11 daily
Best Gay Chicago.com
Cazwell and Amanda Lepore! Saturday Feb. 12th at Hydrate
comes to Chicago!
The queen and king of New Yorks nightlife scene arrive in Chicago, this weekend!
Amanda Lepore has always been the bearer of curiosities, and it’s commonly known that her parties come hand-in-hand with brusque displays of exhibitionism: all skin and sparkle, and anything less would be an insult.
Cazwell. What can we say?
Few new artists embody the spirit of downtown NYC more completely than Cazwell. A leading figure in the renaissance of New York City nightlife that has taken place over the last five years, Cazwell’s music—a ridiculously fun mix of electrified dance music and old school hip hop—is the perfect example of the new spirit of pop music. Says Caz, “When people ask me how to describe my style sometimes I say ‘Just imagine if Biggie Smalls ate Donna Summer for breakfast.’”
Hydrate and Jagermeister is proud to present …..AMANDA LEPORE AND CAZWELL, Saturday, February 12th!!!! Cazwell will be live at 10pm. and he will spin the night away! Amanda performs at Midnight. Cazwell will be spinning all night long for you until 5am!
These 2 always put on an excellent show. And these two have been collaborating for years!
Cazwell is executive producer, brainchild and songwriter behind Amanda Lepore’s upcoming debut album “I…Amanda Lepore” also due this Spring.
The album features such Caz-penned Lepore classics as “Champagne,” “My Hair Looks Fierce,” (which has already been tapped for a television theme song!) and the rambunctious pop punk ode to love “Cotton Candy.” Caz also guest stars in the “Cotton Candy” music video directed by Bec Stupak which will be Amanda’s premiere release for her album!
About being Sonny to a traninternational Cher, Caz says, “I love working on the Amanda record because she’s so interesting and has had such a crazy life. She has a very different point of view. I think that is makeup for an amazing album. I think we definitely achieved that with ‘I…Amanda Lepore’”
DON’T MISS IT!
General Admission tickets are only $15 in advance, $20 at the door. There will also be a VERY LIMITED quantity of VIP meet and greet tickets for only $25!
Hydrate 3458 North Halsted Street
Best Gay Chicago.com
Rahm Emanuel LGBT Party This Weekend Friday Feb. 11
LGBT EVENT
FOR RAHM EMANUEL!
Music by DJ Oscar
Valet parking is available
Cocktails and hors d’oeuvres by BOKA catering will be served
Come out and show your support.
Advance tickets online now.
The Perfect Valentines Gift….Merlot & Massage Yacht Cruise in Chicago
Ah, February in Chicago.
What can we say?
Seems like every February
we get a snow storm!
But this year, WOW!
Snow or no snow,
Valentines Day is just
about a week away!
What are you going to give this year that is not ordinary?
Want something new and different and unexpected? We have good news! We’re here to save you grief and worry this year as you wonder what special treats you can come up with for your Valentine.
This is different….and fun….and something you probably haven’t given before. Plus, it’s affordable and will work for almost anyone, as a great gift idea.
Instead of the usual candy, flowers, jewelry (OK, jewelry is ALWAYS good), this year give your special someone a yacht cruise. Not just any cruise… but a Merlot & Massage Cruise.
2-1/2 hours of pure bliss aboard a private luxury yacht, cruising Lake Michigan. Scrumptious light buffet. (Sample of Captain’s Delight Menu: Spirit Ciabattini Sandwich Platter with a gourmet assortment of chilled sliced tenderloin, smoked turkey and ham steak, plus Gazpacho Salad, Sun-Kissed Grape Salad and Chips), Lush wines (there will be a selection of red and white wines, as well as beer and sodas), and Sinfully soothing massages.
We discovered these cruises last year, and people talked about them for months.
The spacious and newly renovated 70 foot Free Spirit luxury yacht accommodates up to 120 people. Custom-designed for your relaxation and comfort, inside and out, you’ll enjoy our beautiful Chicago skyline as you cruise on Lake Michigan.
Free Spririt Cruises is offering 2 Merlot and Massage dates this year.
Tuesday, May 24th 5:30pm – 8:00pm
Tuesday, June 21st 5:30pm – 8:00pm
Pick one…. or both. At $50 per person , you can’t go wrong. Just don’t wait too long cause they fill up fast!
Buy gift certificates online: Merlot & Massage Cruise .
Chair, hand and foot massages provided by Lincoln Park Massage Spa , one of Chicago’s top-rated spas. They deliver comfort, serenity and balance.
Book a reservation now and surprise your Valentine with something special this year!
