Category Archives: Wellness

LGBT Friendly Personal Trainers

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The gym I go to is about 10%  gay.

And out of 10 trainers, I know one male trainer is gay.

I know that only because someone who trained with him, told me! Some of the other trainers at my gym might be LGBT friendly….but how does one know?  I don’t want to work with some obnoxious testosterone filled male jock who has a thing against gay people.

If you’re going to invest time, money, and trust in a person to guide you in the right direction, then you need to make the right choice. If you want to find the perfect person to help you, then you’re right to be picky. Choose a trainer who will cater to your personal needs and learning preferences. While some people want to be pushed to their limits by a drill sergeant type, others are going to work better with positive reinforcement and gentle encouragement. Your trainer should fit your personality and motivation style.

Chicago entrepreneur Sam Provenzano launched Right Fit For You (RightFitForYou.com). He says, “I just really felt that there was a need for Right Fit for You. The client/trainer relationship is very intimate. Personal Trainers not only help their clients get into tip-top shape, but many of them become a client’s friend and someone they confide in and trust. If you aren’t comfortable and can’t truly be yourself with your Personal Trainer, chances are you will not reach your full potential.”

 

Right Fit for You, is the premiere LGBT-Friendly Personal Trainer Referral Service!

 

Right Fit for You wasn’t solely created because of a fear of running into a close minded Personal Trainer, but because I wanted to provide the LGBT community with an online marketplace of Personal Trainers that the LGBT community can relate to– no questions asked, no insecurities. At the end of the day, Right Fit for You is all about ensuring a comfortable personal training atmosphere for the LGBT community from beginning to end. Every certified Personal Trainer profiled on Right Fit for You will not only will help you get into shape, but will also identify as LGBT or as a straight ally to the community.

Although our focus is primarily geared toward the LGBT community — anyone is welcome to utilize Right Fit for You as a means to find the right Personal Trainer who will fit all of their needs and budget. So whether you are just starting to work out or looking to gain some muscle or lose a few pounds, Right Fit For You can help!

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Step 1: Search through their Personal Trainer database

Search their personal trainer database at no cost! All of the trainers are hand-screened and confirmed to be currently certified. All you have to do is enter your zip code and radius, and browse through the database. You  should read the trainer bio’s and pick the Right Fit For You!

Step 2: Contact Trainer

Send your goals and contact information directly from the site to your desired trainer. If he/she has their contact information listed, give them a call or send them an email to schedule a consultation with your personal trainer and get started on achieving your fitness goals. Tell them you found them through Right Fit for You!

Step 3: Tell your friends about Right Fit for You!

 

It’s  easy  and FREE!    Check it out today!   RIGHT FIT FOR YOU.

*If you are a personal trainer, looking to join Right Fit For You, here is the link with more information.

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AIDS RUN WALK Chicago 2015

aids-walk-chicago

AIDS Run & Walk Chicago is AFC’s grassroots fundraising event where people from all walks of life help change the story of HIV in our lifetime.

As beneficiaries of the event, AFC and our CommunityDirect partners are greatly impacted – beyond just the obvious ways.

AIDS Run & Walk Chicago stands up to the stigma associated with HIV/AIDS allowing progress to continue toward ending the epidemic. Run & Walk invigorates the sector by increasing awareness for the cause, growing our passionate community and allowing new leaders to emerge.

In 2014, AIDS Run & Walk Chicago raised over $394,000 net to benefit the AIDS Foundation of Chicago.

Over and above that, we granted $240,000 to our CommunityDirect partners. These funds allow us to continue saving and improving the lives of those living with or at risk for HIV.

SIGN UP TODAY!!

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AIDS Foundation Chicago

aids-walk-chicago

IN THIS MOMENT

Learn how the AIDS Foundation of Chicago (AFC) has worked to change the HIV epidemic over the past 30 years — and how together we can change the future of HIV through breakthrough resources like PrEP, the Affordable Care Act and Treatment as Prevention.

MAKE THIS MOMENT MATTER

This moment in the history of HIV relies on your support. Make a donation to AFC today.

Help us share this pivotal moment by using #30YearsofAction.

 

WATCH THE VIDEO

 

The AIDS Foundation of Chicago (AFC) commemorated its 30th year of action in the HIV/AIDS community with a celebratory gala on Saturday, May 16, at the Hilton Chicago. The milestone event hosted 680 guests and raised significant funds for ongoing prevention, care and advocacy services in the fight against HIV epidemic nationwide. Actress Amy Landecker, of the Golden Globe award-winning series Transparent, served as the master of ceremonies for the event.

President/CEO John Peller set the tone for the evening with powerful remarks about the evolution of the HIV/AIDS community.

“New cases have been cut by 40 percent in the past decade, but with that progress came apathy. We have made great strides over the years but AIDS is still a problem and we must not lose this moment to continue the fight,” Peller stated.

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Get Pampered at SPOIL ME Salon and Spa

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Hair and Spa Services  @

SPOIL  ME SALON  in Uptown.

Every couple deserves to look beautiful and feel confident on the most important and memorable day of their lives. There is no better place to pamper yourself than at Spoil Me Salon and Spa in Uptown at 4668 N. Broadway.

Whether some needed pampering for a couple or whole wedding party, Spoil Me offers a wide array of services in a very relaxing environment.

Esthetics, nails, massage, hair and make-up application, that will help you feel and look your very best.

They work with only professional, top of the line products to assure you quality service.

 

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EXPERIENCE and quality is what they offer and deliver. With over 20 years experience following and setting contemporary trends in hair, skin and nails. Specialty services include everything from manicures and pedicures to massage and facials. Their creative and innovative team of stylists are experts with all hair textures and their staff is trained with extensions and hair straightening as well.

We have grooms come in  for  pre-pampering and have manicures  and facials, sort of a boys night out, “explains owner Adel, “We have brides come a couple times before the ceremony, some try different hairstyles, some want make-up for the big day, we can do it all.”

It’s nice to have a plan leading up to the big day.  Here are some suggestions to think about….

These wedding preparation tips break down the pre-wedding planning to help you organize what needs to be done and when during the planning process.

6-8 weeks out: Have facial services and consult with your hair and makeup artist. It’s good to do a trial, ask questions and perhaps get inspired for your look.

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2 weeks before: Put your mind and body at ease with a massage. Mention this website at get a 20% discount on any massages in the month before the big day!

Week of:  Consider facial services or waxing with your pedicure and manicure service.

Day of: on site hair and make up services available. RELAX and ENJOY your big day, knowing you look great!

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spoil me hair salon spa services

Spoil Me Hair Salon and Spa

Engagement party, anniversary, weddings and special occasions are their specialty!
Call them today for a free consultation! 773-564-9483
4668 N. Broadway (Btwn Leland and Clifton) Chicago 60640

Many satisfied clients and stellar reviews on YELP!

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Chicago House Spring Fashion Brunch

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A sell-out year after year, the Spring Brunch and Fashion Show is an annual rite for Chicago House supporters and sponsors alike. After a lavish brunch,  attendees  were treated with a  runway fashion show  featuring  exclusive men’s and women’s fashions from local greats.

MANY MORE PHOTOS  HERE

In the early years of the HIV/AIDS epidemic in the US, nearly 100 activists met at the historic Baton Show Lounge to address the dire need for housing for Chicagoans living with AIDS. On September 9, 1985, Chicago House was incorporated in Illinois as not-for-profit the goal of providing housing for those with AIDS.

FOR 30  YEARS  Chicago House and Social Service agency  has served individuals and families who are disenfranchised by HIV/AIDS, LGBTQ marginalization, poverty, homelessness, and/or gender nonconformity by providing housing, employment services, medical linkage and retention services, HIV prevention services, legal services and other supportive programs.

 

Please visit  their site and be sure to LIKE them on Facebook!

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AIDS Foundation Gala May 16th

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The BIGGEST Gala of the year  is just 2 weeks  away!

An incredible evening to remember and raise funds!

Plan to arrive at 6 pm! You will punch your way to prizes at our interactive and celebrated punch board (details coming soon) and enter chances to win a luxury vacation to Aruba or New York City in our raffle while sipping on spirits and nibbling on hors d’oeuvres

·         Amy Landecker, star in Amazon Prime’s series Transparent and former AFC staff member, will serve as the Master of Ceremonies

·         Tom Kehoe will receive the Community Impact Award; Ernie Rodriguez will receive the Lori Kaufman Volunteer Award

·         Paddles will raise during our live auction for luxury vacations to Hawaii, Las Vegas and Coronado Island

·         Paddles will raise again in honor of AFC’s innovative work in the community

·         DJKiss will get you grooving to the best beats in town—dancing until midnight!

TICKETS HERE!

 

ALSO Save these dates!

Team to End AIDS Endurance Training Program Registration

August 15, 2015—Dance for Life

September 26, 2015—AIDS Run & Walk Chicago

December 3, 2015—World of Chocolate

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Best Hair Replacement Techniques in Chicago

fue-hair-transplant-chicago

Many men and women are very self-conscious about thinning hair and hair loss.

While aging may be the most obvious culprit,  many doctors  suggest  that various factors may be to blame — ranging from a thyroid issue to disease to even  stress.

Dr. Yates Hair Science Group is a premier hair restoration practice located in Vernon Hills, Illinois led by Dr. William Yates. Dr. Yates, MD is the top hair loss doctor and hair replacement surgeon for the Midwest. He is a leader in new technologies and is  passionate about hair restoration.

He specializes in several hair restoration procedures and will work with clients to find the right method for their needs. “We are committed to the best technologies, products, and methods to complete and assist your hair regrowth or hair replacement goals,” says Dr. Yates. (All   of products to assist your hair regrowth goals can be easily shipped to your door).

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Many people wonder what it is going to cost?

The cost of your hair transplantation depends on the amount of hair being transplanted and is generally considered plastic surgery, therefore is not covered by medical insurance. However, Dr. Yates understands the important investment in your future, life, and self-confidence and offers great financing options, from interest-free financing to longer term options. You can call their office to see if you qualify for a financing option.

I have personally seen some of the results in person – and YES, it looks totally natural!

When hair transplantation is done correctly by a proficient surgeon, the results look so natural that nobody would know you had a procedure. To achieve the best, natural, and attractive results, you need a meticulous surgeon with proven results. Dr. Yates prefers the advanced follicular unit extraction (FUE) procedure that involves harvesting individual follicles for the best results.

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Dr. Yates is a published writer and international lecturer and teacher. His office offers state-of-art techniques and he is constantly working on ways to improve results. HE IS THE BEST!

 

“As a medical doctor I am trained to not make excuses but get the best results. I want hairloss not to be a burden but something we can conquer together.” – Dr. William D. Yates, MD

 

Board Certifications

    • American Board of Surgery
    • American Board of Hair Restoration Surgery
    • Critical Care/Trauma Surgery

Medical Memberships

      • International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery
      • Fellow, American College of Surgeons
      • American Medical Society

Call their office @ 866.810.6402  and send them a note through their site, to start the conversation on how they can help you!

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David A. Shifrin – Award Winning Cosmetic Surgery

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How do select a great cosmetic doctor? Look at their credentials and awards.

Established in 2010, the award winning cosmetic surgery practice of David A Shifrin MD, provides the complete experience by combining excellent surgical results with personalized care.

Dr. David Shifrin specializes in cosmetic surgery of the face, breast and body.

The nose can have a dramatic impact on our overall appearance. It is in a central position of the face, and when it is out of balance, it can create disharmony amongst other features. Nose shaping or rhinoplasty by Dr David Shifrin can have a profound effect on the appearance of the entire face. Rhinoplasty surgery utilizes techniques such as cartilage removal, nasal bone manipulation and/or tip shaping. It is designed to improve the appearance of the nose and, in some cases, to improve breathing. Dr Shifrin uses two techniques, closed and open, to modify nasal architecture.

Common Changes Include:

  • Shortening, narrowing, or straightening
  • Eliminating a prominent hump
  • Refining the tip or nostrils
  • Reducing a Wide or Bulbous Tip

Many of our patients comment on their longstanding desire to change the appearance of their nose. While there are classic descriptions of what the ideal shape and size of a nose should be, the final decision for nose shaping is uniquely tailored for each individual’s face and goals,” says Dr. Shifrin.

Whether your nose shaping goals are small or you desire a more profound change, Dr. Shifrin has the experience and skill to help you achieve your goal of a better looking, naturally balanced nose.

If you would like to learn more about the Rhinoplasty procedure, click here to request a consultation with Dr Shifrin today. Alternatively you can call our office at (312) 590-3572 to schedule your appointment.
Dr. Shifrin maintains multiple convenient office locations. He focuses his time at Shifrin Plastic Surgery, Downtown Chicago, on improving the aesthetic appearance of his patients through the use of state of the art skin care, botox and fillers and surgery. He prides himself on enhancing his patient’s physical attributes, blending his love of anatomy and science with his surgical expertise to artistically refine the outward beauty of his patients.

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Chicago Liposuction and 3D Abdominal Etching

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January usually brings New Years Resolutions and many men turn their attention to their bodies. Some resolutions include losing weight and/or adding muscle and looking and feeling fitter.

(left: Model photo)

With Summer coming, many people wish they could wave a magic wand and have abs! Or at least reduce the abdominal bulge and waistline inches a bit, to give us a slimmer and tighter body.

As we get older, it’s harder and harder to realize our fitness goals and our bodies may not respond to diet and exercise, the same way they did in our 20’s.

There are various techniques of liposuction and/or 3D Abdominal Etching that may be the answer to help you. Liposuction removes fat from your body using suction. In recent years, improved techniques have made liposuction safer, easier, and less painful. Liposuction is usually done as an outpatient procedure in a properly equipped doctor’s office or hospital. In general, it does not require an overnight stay unless a large volume of fat is being removed. Local anesthesia is used in some cases. And you may or may not be given a sedative to help you relax. The main purpose of liposuction is to reshape one or more areas of your body, not to reduce body weight. Liposuction is typically used on “problem” areas that have not responded well to diet and exercise.

High-definition liposuction or abdominal etching is a great way to improve the overall definition of the abdomen. For some individuals, their genetic makeup restricts them from attaining the chiseled abdomen appearance they desire. Abdominal etching, a technique specific type of liposuction, will thin the remaining fat on top of the stomach muscles and accentuate the natural break points in the wall. The resulting contour lines aid in the creation of the appearance of a muscular abdomen or “six pack”.

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(Actual before and after photos of patient)

Established in 2010, the award winning cosmetic surgery practice of David A Shifrin MD, provides the complete experience by combining excellent surgical results with personalized care. Dr Shifrin has the training, expertise and experience to make your dreams of a healthy appearing, attractive body and abdomen a reality.

A native of Northbrook, Illinois, Dr. David Shifrin is a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, respected for his work with cosmetic surgery and breast cancer reconstruction. Dr. Shifrin returned to his home town of Chicago in 2010 after years of training in the Midwest and South. His travels afforded him a learning experience with some of the most respected plastic surgeons. His academic accomplishments, which include multiple peer reviewed journal article publications and national conference presentations, and his love of teaching and mentoring led him to seek out an academic appointment with the University of Illinois at Chicago division of plastic surgery as an assistant clinical professor.

Dr. David Shifrin specializes in cosmetic surgery of the face, breast and body. He is a plastic surgeon who completed a highly sought-after integrated training program in Michigan, followed by two advanced fellowships. The first, at the Medical College of Wisconsin, concentrated on reconstructive microsurgery. The second fellowship focused on Aesthetic surgery under the mentorship of Dr. Joseph Hunstad, a world renowned plastic surgeon in the area of breast and body contouring.

Dr. Shifrin maintains multiple convenient office locations. He focuses his time at Shifrin Plastic Surgery, Downtown Chicago, on improving the aesthetic appearance of his patients through the use of state of the art skin care, botox and fillers and surgery. He prides himself on enhancing his patient’s physical attributes, blending his love of anatomy and science with his surgical expertise to artistically refine the outward beauty of his patients.

Dr. Shifrin is devoted to providing the best possible experience to those he cares for. He has been awarded Top Plastic Surgeon Chicago region 2012 and 2013 by Health Tap, Patient’s Choice Award and Most Compassionate Doctor Award in 2012, 2013 and 2014 by American Registry.

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(left: Model photo)

In addition to seeing patients at Shifrin Plastic Surgery (680 N. Lake Shore Drive), he currently practices with the Advocate Medical Group at Christ hospital in Oak Lawn, Illinois. Dr. Shifrin looks forward to serving all of his patients with professional and personalized care.

If you like what you have been reading here, request a consultation with Dr Shifrin to learn more about how these procedures can help you achieve your desired appearance. You are encouraged to print your favorite photos and bring them with you during your consultation to help communicate your goals and expectations.

Keep in mind that each patient is unique. Plastic surgery is a blending of art and science and results are thus variable.

David Shifrin MD

CHICAGO: 312.590.3572

OAK LAWN: 708.684.4198

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A Kid Like Jake – Chicago Premiere

a kid like jake chicago broadway

Why Can’t A Boy

be A Princess?

“[A] smart, fluent drama…Pearle has found an intriguing subject of real currency, and one that stirs our natural sympathy.”
—New York Times.
Relevant and compelling –
A KID LIKE JAKE
begins previews in only 16 days!

The Chicago Premiere of     A KID LIKE JAKE
Written by Daniel Pearle |  Directed by Keira Fromm

FEBRUARY 6th thru MARCH 15th
Thursdays thru Saturdays @ 7:30p
Saturday and Sunday Matinees @ 3:00p

Discounted PREVIEW TICKETS are still available, but they won’t be for long! Be among the first to see A KID LIKE JAKE – grab yours today.

Alex and Greg’s intelligent and precocious four year-old son Jake is a leading candidate for enrollment in one of Manhattan’s top kindergarten programs. But when attention turns to his passion for Cinderella and dress-up, Jake’s behavior becomes a lightning rod, calling into question assumptions about gender, class, education and acceptance through the lens of 21st century parenting.

 

PREVIEWS: Adults $20 | Students + Seniors $10
Adults $35 | Students + Seniors $20


The Greenhouse Theater Center 
2257 N Lincoln Ave. in Chicago

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Board Certified Hair Restoration Surgeon

best-hair-less-techniquesMinimally Invasive Hair Restoration
With (FUE) Follicular Unit Extraction And Surgical Robotic Technology

 

International lecturer and teacher, Dr. William Yates, M.D., Board Certified Hair Restoration Surgeon, breaks through the old stereotypes of hair loss and hair transplant and brings Chicago’s North Shore the very latest cutting edge technological advancements in the field, offering patients an array of state-of-the-art facial and hair restoration services. He is a world-renowned expert in Follicular Unit Extraction.

He is so passionate and confident the Follicular Unit Extraction technique is superior to traditional methods; he only performs this highly skilled technique for hair transplantation.

Dr. Yates specialized skills make him one of the elite surgeons to educate and train other physicians to perform this specialized technique both locally and internationally.

ARTAS-hair replacement machine

What is FUE?

While performed under local anesthesia, the hair or follicular units are individually harvested or punched from the back of the scalp or donor area in the hands of Dr. Yates using whatever instrument is best for his patient to obtain optimal results. He utilizes the most advanced ARTAS Robotic Hair Transplant System or various manual, hand-held instruments to delicately punch out each individual hair follicle.

The camera system and algorithms in place with the robot or Dr. Yates skilled eyes and hands, choose the most robust hairs to remove for transplantation. With the traditional strip method for hair transplantation, not only do you have to take all hairs (even weak hair), the patient also incurs a painful cut, stitches and scar that they have to live with and conceal the rest of their lives.

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Dr. Yates utilizes state of the art biological solutions such as Hypothermosol and ATPv (adenosine triphosphate) to store, protect and ensure optimal survival of these valuable grafts while awaiting transplant into the balding areas of the scalp for both men and women.

The finishing touch is completed by Dr. Yates artistic ability to create a natural hairline and hair density in his patient’s areas of thinning throughout the scalp. He uses micro-incisions to create sites to place each individual follicular unit, which will grow into a natural, undetectable pattern over the next year.

The results – – Phenomenal, Natural, Permanent Hair that patients can style anyway they desire without a scar in the back of the scalp. It’s cutting edge methodology like this that separates Dr. Yates’ concierge practice from the cookie cutter competition, who still rely on the antiquated guesswork with a scalpel from when they started 30 years ago.

 

“It’s permanent and not many people can do it right,” says Dr. Yates. “This is the investment that lasts.”
WITH FUE THERE ARE NO TRANVERSE VISIBLE SCARS ACROSS THE BACK OF THE HEAD

If someone is unable to shave the back of his or her scalp for FUE, he also has an answer for this. Dr. Yates is able to creatively trim the hair so that the donor area is completely concealed and you can return to work immediately without any visible signs of a procedure.
Dr. Yates is also very skilled at restoring facial hair such as beards, mustaches, goatees and eyebrows.

He also performs recovery and repair work on patients who have had multiple, visible scars; old-fashioned and undesirable plug procedures; and creative body hair (beard, chest, back hair) harvesting for transplantation for individuals who are “tapped out” of donor hair in the back of their scalp.

 

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State of the Art

        Non-Surgical Options…

 

PRP (Platelet Rich Plasma)
This therapy has been FDA approved and utilized for over 30 years for advanced wound healing. Now, we are seeing exciting results with PRP for hair growth. A patient’s blood is drawn and spun in a centrifuge to concentrate the platelets to a specific concentration effective for hair growth. The platelets are then activated and injected back into the scalp at the level of the hair follicles. This process stimulates the body’s own growth factors and stem cells to slow hair loss, reverse miniaturized hair to produce a strong, visible hair again, and if used at the time of a hair transplant, it encourages faster graft growth. This has been very effective for both men and women.

Stromal Vascular Fraction or Stem Cell Therapy with Fat Transfer
Adult stem cells are most concentrated in our bodies in bone marrow and even more so in fat tissue or adipose. Dr. Yates is able to harvest these fat cells and concentrate and purify them in a centrifuge system. He then combines the fat cells with PRP to inject into the scalp to stimulate hair growth and stabilize further hair loss. This process offers even more benefits than just PRP alone by replacing the lost layer of subcutaneous fat in the scalp where the hair follicle thrives.

Scalp Micro-Pigmentation (SMP)
With SMP, pigment is used on the scalp to create the appearance of real hair follicles recreating hairlines, adding the appearance of density to thinning areas and covering unsightly scars. This advanced solution for hair loss replicates real shaven hair follicles on the scalp. The appearance is so realistic that it actually looks like you have hair. We know how the hair should look when pigmented, because that’s all we do everyday – HAIR! If someone has limited donor hair and has been told they were not a good candidate for a hair transplant procedure, they now have a great option! This is perfect for those who wear a very closely cropped hairstyle!

Hair Styling for Thinning Hair

Since hair loss affects so many people and everyone’s self-esteem, Dr. Yates even offers an onsite Licensed Cosmetologist with over 17 years of experience. She studied in Italy, Spain, Greece, Germany, New York, Miami and Chicago. She specializes in styling and educating patients to look their best if they suffer with hair loss.

 

Someone doesn’t have to be bald to feel the confidence shaking reality of hair loss. For many, it can appear as a lack of volume and expanding thinness. Slowly, their scalp becomes more apparent through the diminishing volume of their hair. Dr. Yates can stop that hair loss in its tracks and reduce the appearance of thinning hair for men and women using the most advanced treatments available in the industry.

 

When hair transplantation is done correctly by a proficient surgeon, the results look so natural that nobody would know you had a procedure. To achieve the best, natural, and attractive results, you need a meticulous surgeon with proven results.

The team at Yates Hair Science Group delivers the best care and quality everyday and are recognized leaders in the field.

213 N Stetson Ave,  Chicago IL  60601

PHONE: 312-261-0872 or visit them online at dryateshairscience.com

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LGBTQ Homeless Youth Chicago

750 club chicago LGBT youth

Apartment Adoption Project starts for      homeless Chicago youth

The 750 Club Apartment Adoption Project is launching this week in Chicago to provide private apartments for youth moving out of transitional housing. The project was initiated at the LGBTQ Homeless Youth Summit hosted earlier in 2014 by Windy City Times newspaper.

The 750 Club aims to provide additional scattered-site housing to unstably housed youth who are in school or working at least part-time. There will be a special focus on LGBTQ youth, but the program is not exclusive.

Studies show that stable housing is a basic necessity to maintain health and safety. Without it, youth have difficulty attending school, finding and keeping jobs, eating right, staying healthy, and more.

The 750 Club will address this issue by raising funds for private “adoption” of apartments. Existing homeless youth agencies and their case manager programs will provide supportive services to the residents. The program will cover young adults ages 18 to 25, or emancipated minors.

Every $750 raised will get approximately one youth in one apartment for one month.

Team Captains who agree to recruit 10 people to each give $75 a month for two years will have adopted one apartment for one youth for two years, which is the average minimum time agencies recommend for stabilizing a formerly homeless young person.

“This is an amazing, one-on-one way our community can make a difference in the lives of at-risk youth,” said Tracy Baim, publisher of Windy City Times. Baim is overseeing the project, and is seeking help from team captains willing to recruit friends to commit to raising $75 each for two years. “A small group of just 10 people can change the world of one youth. The case managers will handle the logistics, but we also help to provide mentorship opportunities as well.”

All funds raised will be collected and administered by the AIDS Foundation of Chicago’s (AFC) housing program, so all donations will be tax deductible. Agencies who utilize scattered-site youth housing options will then apply for the use of the funds.

“AFC has the infrastructure to pay rents on behalf of residents, and we coordinate services for over 750 supportive housing residents each month,” said John Peller, president & CEO of AFC. “The 750 Club is a cost-effective extension of our existing programs that will help youth, including LGBTQ youth, a population that is highly vulnerable to HIV. We are grateful for Tracy’s leadership to address a serious, long-standing community need.”

The donation categories are:

Bronze: $75 one time – House one youth for three days

Silver: $75 per month for 10 months – House one youth for one month

Gold: $75 per month for 24 months – Partnered with nine others, you will house one youth for two years

Platinum: $750 a month for 6 months – You will house one youth for six months

Titanium: $750 per month for 24 months – You will house one youth for two years

Online donations and monthly pledges can be done via the AFC website, http://tinyurl.com/ApartmentAdopt .

For landlords interested in donating the use of an apartment at no or low-cost, please contact Baim to discuss options. Email: editor@windycitymediagroup.com.

Note: The average studio apartment rented through the agencies is $750 a month. The 750 Club will use this as the target goal to raise funds for two-year leases for youth who are working through agencies to find stable, long-term housing. In some cases it might be a two-bedroom apartment at average rent of $1500. Because this is an average number, in some cases the funds will help more than one youth, and in others additional money will be needed. Any extra funds will roll over into additional apartment rentals.

 

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Men 13-24 NEEDED for Safer Sex Study

 

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Recruiting  men ages 13-24 years old

and if they complete the study they could walk away with up to $50!

DETAILS   HERE

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Howard Brown health Center – Discussions on Transgender and Youth Issues

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Howard Brown Health Center Celebrates its Past and Future at Annual Meeting

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Howard Brown Health Center (HBHC) has stood as a beacon for LGBTQ equality for 40 years, and our services only grow more vital in today’s changing healthcare landscape. To commemorate past accomplishments and unfold plans for the year ahead, HBHC will hold its Annual Meeting on Thursday, May 29, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. at the future home of the HBHC’s Brown Elephant Store in Lakeview at 3020 N. Lincoln Avenue.

Together with funders, community partners, and patients, HBHC’s newly appointed President and CEO David Ernesto Munar will trace the narrative of this remarkable community health center, which has provided compassionate and LGBTQ-affirming healthcare and wellness services to diverse patient populations since 1974.

“For 40 years, Howard Brown has led community-based efforts to improve the health and lives of sexual and gender minorities and our allies,” Munar said. “Since our founding in 1974, the modern gay liberation movement has made extraordinary gains we can all be proud of. But sadly, severe health disparities persist in our community as compared to the population at large. The next frontier of our struggle must seek full health and socio-economic justice for everyone, regardless of their gender identity or sexual orientation.”

The event will take place at the future home of HBHC’s flagship Brown Elephant resale store, opening for business on July 1. This new store symbolizes the expansion of HBHC’s affordable and community centered mission, with proceeds from all Brown Elephant locations expanding access to essential healthcare services to all people, regardless of their ability to pay.

The Annual Meeting, free of charge, will start with light refreshments. The presentation will include the introduction of HBHC’s newly elected members of the Board of Directors. At the event, HBHC will launch a year of activities commemorating 40 years of service to the community. HBHC thanks AbbVie, Barefoot Wine, Jewell Events Catering, MillerCoors, and others for providing generous support to make the Annual Meeting possible.

Please stand proudly with HBHC on May 29. RSVP online here or by calling 773.572.5117. Space is limited.

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Howard Brown Health Center and PrEP

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Howard Brown Health Center  provides access to Pre- and Post- Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP and PEP) to reduce your chance of aquiring HIV. Preventing HIV is part of the full spectrum of primary care services offered at HBHC, and PrEP is offered as part of those services.

To limit the risk of HIV infection, HBHC offers PrEP and PEP to those most likely to be exposed to HIV and those who may have recently been exposed. PrEP is offered without judgment and our staff will work to help you access the medication without prohibitive costs.

 

 Frequently asked questions:

What is PrEP?
Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) is a medication that can reduce your risk of aquiring HIV. If you take PrEP as directed, it can reduce the chance that HIV will be able to infect your body. A once-daily pill is available for patients seeking PrEP.

 

Who can take PrEP?
PrEP can be taken by an HIV-negative person (in consultation with their heathcare provider) who wants to reduce their chance of acquiring HIV. PrEP is available through prescription only.

 

Where to get PrEP?
HBHC offers PrEP to patients in our primary care clinics. Staff are available to help patients make an appointment to see a healthcare provider for PrEP. HBHC also helps patients access assistance programs that may pay for the medication in part or in full.

For additional information or to make an appointment, call 773.388.8885 or walk in during our hours of operation. You can also send an e-mail to prep@howardbrown.org for more information.

 

Does PrEP have side effects?
Side effects may include upset stomach, headaches, nausea, and dizziness. Patients who experience these side effects often experience them for only a short time while the body adjusts to the medication.

More serious side effects are extremely rare, and may include liver toxicity, renal impairment, and lactic acidosis. Discuss serious side effects with your provider before starting PrEP. 

 

Payment
PrEP is covered by Medicaid and most private insurance plans. Co-pay assistance is available, and many patients with insurance pay nothing out of pocket. If you need help or do not have insurance, ask about patient assistance programs which may pay for the full cost of the medication. Low-income patients may qualify.

More info  at  HBHC/Prep

PrEPCover

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More Proof Mom passes on our Gay Gene

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A new study of gay men in the U.S. has found that male sexual orientation is influenced by genes passed on by the mother.
The British newspaper the Guardian reports that in a test of 400 gay men, genes on at least two chromosomes affected whether a man is gay.

“The study shows that there are genes involved in male sexual orientation,” said Michael Bailey, a psychologist at Northwestern University in Illinois, who set out the findings at a discussion event held in conjunction with the annual meeting of the American Association for the Advancement of Science in Chicago.
See more at best gay news
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Howard Brown Town Hall Meetings on Health Issues

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Howard Brown Health Center (HBHC) invites community members to participate in a series of town-hall meetings to discuss the health and wellness needs of Chicago’s diverse LGBTQ community. The sessions are part of HBHC’s community needs assessment, conducted every five years to gauge health-related concerns for HBHC’s patient populations.

“Respondents to the 2012 LGBT Community Needs Assessment overwhelmingly identified affordable health services and care as their leading concern,” said David Ernesto Munar, President and CEO.  “Our series is designed to dig deeper in order to better understand the community assets and barriers affecting the health of people in our community.”   

 

HBHC will rely on the community needs assessment for planning and quality improvement initiatives. Input from the meetings will be shared widely to spur public awareness and support for LGBTQ health promotion activities.

 

Sessions will be held at HBHC’s Brown Elephant in Lakeview at 3651 N. Halsted, 6:00 – 7:30 p.m. on the following dates: 

 

Monday, May 12: LGBTQ Older Adults

Facilitators: Medical Director Magda Houlberg, MD and Cecilia Hardacker, Manager of Geriatric Education

 

Monday, May 19: Lesbians, Bisexual and Queer Women

Facilitators: Betsy Rubinstein, Manager of Lesbian Community Care Project, and Michelle Wetzel, Sr. Vice President for Policy, Strategy and Business Development

 

Monday, June 2: Gay, Bisexual & Queer Men

Facilitators: Staff Physician Alfred Torrence, MD and Serette King, Health Educator

 

Monday, June 9: Transgender Individuals

Facilitators: Blue, Program Manager of the Transgender Women of Color Project, and Taylor Casey, Manager of Transgender Health

 

Monday, June 16: LGBTQ Youth Under 24

Facilitators: Imani Rupert, Director of HBHC’s Broadway Youth Center, and Kristin Keglovitz, PA, Director of Clinical Operations

Interested participants who cannot attend in person can join the discussion virtually on Twitter with the hashtag #HBHCTownHalls.

 

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Justin Jedlica Plastic Surgery Expert and Consultant

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If you could have free plastic surgery, what would you have done?

I think many gay people, especially gay men, pay A LOT of attention to their looks and to their body. Feeling good about yourself and getting compliments on how you look, give a person a boost of self confidence.

If I had the money, there are a number of things I would have done, trust me.

So why do so many judge Justin Jedlica, the human Ken doll,  which by the way, I hate that label.  Justin recently said, “I would say more of my inspiration stems from ‘manga’ or anime. I find that much more appealing in all honestly than a Ken doll. It’s sort of that over-stylized, cartoonish version of human form [that I like]. I have all these haters on my page being like, ‘Does that mean you want to cut off your penis?’ And I’m like actually, I wish it was dragging on the ground like anime. [Laughs] There’s actually this subgroup of people do that—they cut off their nipples and bellybuttons and castrate themselves!”

I have known Justin personally for about 2 years. He is very down to earth, very well traveled and educated. People assume he is a rich spoiled brat when in fact, he comes from a very simple lower middle class background. People who do not know him try to judge him and hate on him. I don’t understand that.

Justin and his husband of 5 years relocated to Chicago last year but Justin finds himself traveling all of time and most of his clients are in New York and Los Angeles naturally, where plastic surgery is more prevalent.

Your body is your temple, and Justin  can act as the architect–your design specialist. From his many years of personal experience within the body modification arena, Justin now retains an arsenal of the most skilled, accredited, cosmetic medical specialists who act with the utmost discretion. Through his discreet referral, consultative and coordinator services, Justin and his team can assure you the most direct and comprehensive route to achieve your desired result (whether subtle or more extreme).

THERE IS A GREAT INTERVIEW THIS WEEK WITH THE DAILY BEAST.

He says, (and I totally agree), “Who are people to tell me that [my surgeries] looks weird? I mean, why is western culture the only correct perception of beauty? That’s just ridiculous. It’s a completely ignorant statement. There seems to be this overwhelming idea that you should be happy with what God gave you or what you were born with. There’s this weird stigma around allowing yourself to feel ownership over your own body and really take charge of how people view it. I don’t understand that at all.”

Don’t Hate! Appreciate!

 

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Sad News for Gay Illinois Teens – Conversion Therapy Ban Shot Down

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Illinois House Shoots Down Ban On Gay Conversion Therapy

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (CBS) – An effort to ban the controversial practice of “conversion therapy” to turn gay, lesbian and bisexual youth heterosexual has been defeated in the Illinois House.

The proposed legislation, sponsored by Rep. Kelly Cassidy (D-Chicago) lost on a 44-51 roll call vote Thursday.

Cassidy, a lesbian who helped spearhead the legalization of same-sex marriage in Illinois, told her colleagues people are born heterosexual, homosexual or bisexual, and so-called “conversion therapy” can only harm the youths it purports to treat.  SEE MORE  AT  CBS

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