Penny Arcade at City Winery June 25

Penny Arcade’s one-woman-show Longing Lasts Longer

Tuesday, June 25 at 8:00 pm at City Winery Chicago

 

JUST IN TIME  FOR  PRIDE!!! The long-overdue Chicago debut of underground performance legend Penny Arcade and her one woman show Longing Lasts Longer is a rock n’ roll blend of stand-up comedy and memoir in which she offers perspectives on the effects of gentrification. Arcade’s performance is the same week as the 50th Anniversary of the Stonewall Rebellion and PENNY WAS THERE THROWING BRICKS! (Note, she prefers the word “uprising” to “riots.”)

 

She was on the scene in NYC with Patti Smith, Lou Reed, and Andy Warhol, to drop a few names.

 

Arcade, also known as Susana Ventura, is an internationally respected performance artist, writer, poet, and experimental theater maker known for her magnetic stage presence, her take-no-prisoners wit, and her content rich plays and one-liners. She is the author of ten scripted performance plays and hundreds of performance art pieces. Arcade’s decade-long focus on the creation of community and inclusion as the goals of performance, and her efforts to use performance as a transformative act mark her as a true original in American theater and performance. The work she does has always focused on the other and the outsider, giving voice to those marginalized by society. Longing Lasts Longer’s street smarts and exuberance open a crack in our planet’s post-gentrified landscape with its razor sharp satire.

 

Tickets $25-35. citywinery.com/Chicago.

SNEAK PEAK ON YOUTUBE

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PRIDE NIGHT at Cirque du Soleil Soldier Field

CIRQUE DU SOLEIL VOLTA  is  hosting a special PRIDE Night on  Tuesday June 188pm at Soldier Field South Lot.

It  will benefit the state’s top LGBTQ advocacy and education organization, Equality Illinois. The rainbow carpet will be animated by Chicago’s top drag queens from 7-8pm!  Use  code  EQIL  to  save  15%  @  Cirquedusoleil.com/VOLTA

Cirque du Soleil’s latest touring production, VOLTA, is now playing under its signature Big Top at the Soldier Field South Lot, 459 E. 18th Drive, Chicago, thru July 6, 2019. Tickets, starting at $49.

 

30 years in Chicago

2019 is a special year for Chicago and Cirque du Soleil as it marks the 30th anniversary of the coming of the circus troupe in the Windy City. Indeed, the first-ever Cirque du Soleil touring show to visit the USA, CIRQUE RÉINVENTÉ, stopped by Chicago in 1989 for the first time. This year, VOLTA will then be the 25th production to be presented in the area since the Canadian company first visited.

 

30 years in numbers:

  • Cirque du Soleil visited Chicago for the first time 30 years ago with CIRQUE RÉINVENTÉ in 1989
  • VOLTA is the 25th Cirque du Soleil production to visit the Chicago area
  • VOLTA is the FIRST Cirque show to be presented at Soldier Field
  • Chicago is the 10th city to be visited by VOLTA in the USA
  • VOLTA employs 200 local employees from Chicago for the duration of its stay

 

The show

Energetic, urban and contemporary, VOLTA is a captivating voyage of discovery that showcases never-before-seen under the Big Top acrobatics in a visually striking world. Driven by a stirring melodic score and inspired in part by the adventurous spirit that fuels the culture of street sports, VOLTA is a story of transformation. It is about being true to oneself, fulfilling one’s true potential, and recognizing one’s own power to make it possible. Ultimate freedom comes with self-acceptance, and with the liberation of the judgement of others.

 

The Costumes

The stunning costumes of VOLTA have been designed by Emmy Award winner Zaldy Goco, famous for his work with Lady Gaga, Michael Jackson, Britney Spears, Gwen Stefani and on RuPaul’s Drag Race.

GET A GLIMPSE  OF  VOLTA  HERE

Social Media:

Facebook.com/VOLTA

Twitter: @Cirque #VOLTA

Instagram: cirquedusoleil #VOLTA

 

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Free French Cooking Demo June 15

My Private Chef presents French Favorites
at Bloomingdale’s Home & Furniture Store

A favorite whenever he appears, Chef Chris Tong of the private gourmet dining service, My Private Chef returns to the Bloomingdale’s for a French Bistro cooking demonstration.

Chef will prepare a mouthwatering menu and give tips about ingredients and serving. And, everyone will enjoy a taste of each dish.

Chef Chris will serve some of his favorite recipes:

  • Escargot Bourguignonne
  • Steak au Poivre
  • Haricot Verts
  • Pommes Puree

He will appear on Saturday, June 15 from 2:00-4:00 p.m. at the Bloomingdale’s Home & Furniture Store, Medinah Temple, 600 N. Wabash Avenue, Chicago, Illinois. Demo kitchen on 1.

For more information about this free Bloomingdale’s event, please call 312.324.7678

My Private Chef is enjoying popularity as one of Chicago’s favorite private gourmet dining services.
Trained in European-style fine cuisine, Chef Tong established his reputation 
at fine restaurants and hotels in Florida, California, and Chicago.
Now he has adapted his impressive skills to the world of private entertaining.
My Private Chef offers enticing cuisine for a wide range of events, from 
intimate dinners to weddings to corporate parties.
 
Chef Chris says: “Every event is different and I’ve met some wonderful people including many celebrities. Being part of very special occasions makes my
work worthwhile. I also love conducting cooking demonstrations where I get 
the feeling that audience members will go home and try some new dishes!”

For more information about My Private Chef, contact Event Services at 773.370.8131 or visit our web site: www.myprivatechef.net

We hope to see you there!
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How About Brunch on Monday in Lakeview?

MONDAY Holidays

are getting like a BONUS  SUNDAY!

Whether you are recovering from IML  or  Grabby Awards Parties, enjoy the  BEST BRUNCH  IN LAKEVIEW  on MONDAY!

The Best Bottomless Mimosa Brunch

$25 for unlimited mimosas and it includes an entree from our extensive menu!

ALSO $5 House Margaritas at El Mariachi Tequila Bar

AND $5 Sangria at Revolucion Mexican Steakhouse

Reservations are recommended, walkins are accepted.

Reserve today amigos!

 

Revolucion Mexican Steakhouse

3443 N. Broadway Chicago IL 60657

(773) 661-9893

Reserve today!

www.revolucionsteakhouse.com

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Theddddddddd

 

El Mariachi Tequila Bar & Grill

3906 N. Broadway Chicago IL 60613

(773) 549-2932

Reserve Today

www.elmariachitequilabar.com

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Pride in the Park in Chicago June 29 2019

Tickets  $50-$100

GA Tickets All Ages

VIP Tickets 21+ only

Held the day before Chicago’s annual LGBTQ Pride Parade, this ALL-NEW FEST at the Petrillo Bandshell will celebrate June’s Pride Month and will feature top national and local performers.

It will also feature an eclectic mix of food and arts & crafts vendors.

“We hope to build Pride in the Park into something people travel to Chicago for yearly, and something that will add to the already amazing Chicago Pride experience”

A portion of tickets processed will benefit the Center On Halsted. Center On Halsted is the Midwest’s most comprehensive community center dedicated to advancing community and securing the health and well-being of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer (LGBTQ) people of Chicagoland. More than 1,000 community members visit the Center every day, located in the heart of Chicago’s Lakeview Neighborhood.

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Mothers Day Brunch with a Mexican Twist

This May 12th, treat Mom to something you know will make both of you smile: a delightful brunch or dinner with you!

Mothers Day Mimosa Brunch
Bottomless Mimosas & An Entree from our Brunch Menu are Included.
Every mother receives a complimentary churros as a way to help say “Thanks!” to all the great mothers out there!
Walk ins are accepted, reservations are recommended!

 

El Mariachi Tequila Bar & Grill

3906 N. Broadway

Chicago Il 60613

Phone: 773-549-2932  /  Website: www.elmariachitequilabar.com

 

 

 

Revolucion Mexican Steakhouse

3443 N. Broadway

Chicago Il 60657

Phone: 773-661-9893 /  Website: www.revolucionsteakhouse.com

 

 

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May 14th Cook Eat and Drink with Chef Tong

Chef Tong Presents a Taste of Spring at

Whole Foods Market, Lincoln Park

Celebrate the arrival of Spring!

Chef Christopher Tong returns to present Spring fare that is sure to satisfy your gourmet tastes.

 

His demonstration will be held on Tuesday, May 14 from 7-9:00pm.

 

 

Chef’s Menu:

  • Asparagus salad with red and yellow bell peppers, Champagne-saffron vinaigrette
  • Lemon spaghetti, Parmesan cheese, basil, lemon zests, focaccia crisp
  • Strawberry flambé with green peppercorns, vanilla bean ice cream

Chef will give you step-by-step directions and shopping tips, while answering all of your questions. And, everyone gets to have a taste!

The cost is $20.00 per person. The cooking class is on the mezzanine level in the on-site cooking classroom at the Whole Foods Market in Lincoln Park,1550 North Kingsbury, Chicago.

Feel free to bring a bottle  of   wine  as well!   BYOB

Chef Tong’s classes are popular at Whole Foods Market so we suggest you sign up early to guarantee your place in the class.

To register for the class, call Whole Foods Market, Lincoln Park at 312.587.0648 or sign up at the Customer Service Desk. Credit card or cash payment will hold your place in the class.

For more information about My Private Chef, contact Event Services at 773.370.8131 or visit our web site: www.myprivatechef.net

We hope to see you there!

 

ABOUT  CHEF;
Christopher Tong is the owner of My Private Chef, the elegant Chicago-based private chef and gourmet dining service.

Born and trained in Germany, Chef Christopher Tong has been creating distinctive contemporary Continental and French cuisine for more than twenty five years. After he was recruited to join the culinary staff of Ciel Blue, a famous award-winning restaurant in Chicago, he continued his career at prestigious establishments around the U.S., including the Walt Disney Swan Hotel in Orlando, the world famous Polo Lounge at the Beverly Hills Hotel in Beverly Hills and the Sutton Place Hotel and Palmer House Hilton in Chicago.

Chef Tong’s cooking demonstrations are a favorite. He regularly appears on local television, at Bloomingdale’s Home & Furniture Store, Williams-Sonoma, Sur La Table, Gilda’s Club Chicago, Whole Foods, Chicago Botanic Garden, Chicago’s Green City Market and In the Kitchen with Mariano’s at the Taste of Chicago.

Christopher was named one of the top 100 Chefs in Chicago and received the 2000 Gold Medal Award by the American Tasting Institute. He has served as a judge at the Illinois Institute of Art and is a member of the James Beard Foundation. He teaches his skills to students in the Culinary Arts Program at St. Augustine College.

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FINALLY! Boystown Gets Rainbow Crosswalks!

Northalsted Business Alliance Announces Chicago Rainbow Pride Crosswalks

Boystown will get a little more colorful just in time for Pride Month this June with the planned addition of Chicago Rainbow Pride Crosswalks throughout the neighborhood.  Initiated by the Northalsted Business Alliance, the rainbows will brighten the street at 14 crosswalks on east-west streets parallel to Halsted from Melrose north to Bradley, excluding Addison.

Thirteen of the crosswalks will feature the rainbow design that represents diversity and has become an inclusive symbol of the worldwide LGBTQ+ pride movement since the 1970’s. The 14th crosswalk will be dedicated to the transgender community. The blue, pink and white stripes found on the transgender flag will be located on Melrose south of the Howard Brown Health Center. This crosswalk will complement the mural at this intersection that has been dedicated to the queer and non-binary community.

The colorful crosswalks join the 20 iconic golden rainbow pylons, which are home to the Legacy Walk memorial plaques, the world’s only outdoor LGBTQ+ History Museum and now recognized by the Chicago Landmarks Commission as a Historic Landmark.

Funds for the Chicago Rainbow Pride Crosswalks come from Northalsted Business Alliance donated during the Chicago Pride Fest® and Northalsted Market Days® celebrations. This project has been in development since December 2018 with the Chicago Department of Transportation and the support of Alderman Tom Tunney and Alderman James Cappleman.

Northalsted President Ramesh Ariyanayakam explains the excitement around the additions.

“As an internationally recognized and historic landmark neighborhood, Boystown has been a place of acceptance and diversity for decades. These crosswalks show our commitment to maintaining a thriving LGBTQ+ community.”

 

About Northalsted

Since 1980, Northalsted Business Alliance (NBA) has worked collectively to enhance the entertainment district known as Boystown. Representing over 100 In & Proud businesses, NBA is recognized by the City of Chicago, national media outlets and residents for its leadership of advancing economic vitality and quality of life for the total community. To this end, NBA provides programs and services that will increase investment, security, opportunity and activity in our district

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Best Cinco De Mayo WEEKEND in Lakeview!

Sure, Cinco de Mayo is one day – but celebrate all weekend!

Weather is looking nice!  The patio  will be open!

Friday, Saturday  and  Sunday,  drink  specials, brunch deals and more at two of favorite restaurants;

El Mariachi Tequila Bar & Grill    3906 N.  Broadway

and  Revolucion  Mexican Steakhouse  3420 N. Broadway.

 

Cinco de Mayo, or the fifth of May, is a holiday that celebrates the date of the Mexican army’s 1862 victory over France at the Battle of Puebla during the Franco-Mexican War. The day, which falls on Sunday, May 5 in 2019, is also known as Battle of Puebla Day. While it is a relatively minor holiday in Mexico, in the United States, Cinco de Mayo has evolved into a commemoration of Mexican culture and heritage, particularly in areas with large Mexican-American populations.

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Free Queer Prom this week – Center on Halsted

MIDNIGHT IN PARIS: QUEER PROM FOR LGBTQ YOUTH

Friday, May 10, 2019
5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Center on Halsted

Center on Halsted is proud to partner with American Airlines for the 2019 Queer Prom. The annual Queer Prom is an opportunity for LGBTQIA youth between the ages of 13 and 24 to celebrate all parts of their identities without feeling silenced or alone. This year, we present to you a night to remember: Midnight in Paris. Join us for a moment filled with elegance, allure, and so much more.
“What should I wear” might you ask? Let us help! American Airlines is providing attire for your big night. Please contact David Biele, Youth Program Manager, for more info: dbiele@centeronhalsted.org
This year’s Queer Prom will be hosted at Center on Halsted’s 3rd Floor from 5 – 8pm on May 10, 2019. You and guests within the age range are welcome, as well as Center on Halsted Youth Program alum. No RSVP required.

FREE TO ATTEND

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EASTER BRUNCH! With a Twist!

2 amazing choices  for  Brunch this weekend!

One of the best deals in town  with an awesome menu!

Celebrate the end of lent by bringing in the whole family in for Easter and leave the Easter cooking to us this year! 

Celebrate Easter with a delicious $25 Bottomless Mimosa Brunch done with a Mexican Twist at Revolucion Steakhouse or El Mariachi Tequila Bar & Grill.

Brunch includes free flowing mimosas and an entrée from our Brunch Menu.

Brunch will be available from 10 am to 3 pm

 

Or if you prefer to come in for dinner, we will be open from 3:30 pm – 10:00 pm.

Come on over, and don’t forget to make your reservations ahead of time to be seated right away.

Simply call the number below or click on the website to make your reservations online.

 

Happy Easter Everyone and we hope to see you soon Amigos!

Revolucion Mexican Steakhouse

Revolucionsteakhouse.com

3443 N. Broadway

(773) 661-9893

 

El Mariachi Tequila Bar & Grill

Elmariachitequilabar.com 

3906 N. Broadway

(773) 549-2932

 

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2 Big Dance Parties by Circuit Mom For Market Days

THE BIGGEST  DANCE  PARTIES  OF  THE SUMMER!

Market Days  Weekend  August  10 & 11th  at Aragon Ballroom!

CircuitMOM returns with a weekend of massive dance parties starting with “Comic Book Hero” on Saturday, August 10, 2019 at the historic Aragon Ballroom with the dynamic DJ duo ROSABEL returning for their second year. Major venue improvements, more space for our guests, new bathrooms, location markers on the dance floor so you can find your friends and a ton of surprises are ready to go for 2019. Plus, this may be our last year for the “SuperHERO’ theme, so get those capes out and show them off!

With the amazing response we received in 2018 for the first “DRAMA” party on Market Days Sunday, we decided that we would keep the theme, but add more sass and more space for 2019.

We are very excited to bring you “DRAMA at the Disco” on Sunday, August 11, 2019. Not only are we bringing back superstar DJ/Producer Hector Fonseca, but we have invited DJ Suri (Spain) to come make his Chicago debut during Market Days. These two mega star DJ’s will be bringing you all the discoteque DRAMA, so be ready! More lights, lasers, and platform shoes than you can shake a polyester shirt at, we promise.

Last year, the DRAMA party sold out in record time and many out of town guests could not attend, so this year we are moving the Sunday night party to The Aragon Ballroom. We will be working overnight to transform the room from Saturday nights “Comic Book Hero” main event into a whole different space for our disco closing party on Sunday. The Aragon has more than tripled their bathroom spaces and added balcony seating and a whole new VIP entrance. We are adding balcony space for non-VIP guests this year in response to people’s requests for more room and a place to sit and recharge. Sunday night will look completely different.
Must be 21+

Get Your Weekend Pass Today!
Men’s Room Chicago.  3420 N Halsted
GA Weekend Pass: $150 (no additional fees)

No additional fees, however, purchases must be made in the store. No purchases can be made by phone. Cash or credit accepted. Tickets issued at time of purchase

Ticketmaster.com
Limited Quantities Available:

GA Weekend Pass: $121 ($146.29 including Ticketmaster fees)
VIP Weekend Pass: $201 ($233.99 including Ticketmaster fees)

Tickets issued at time of purchase

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Chicago Pridefest 2019 Leann Rimes

The 19th annual Chicago Pride Fest®, June 22-23, 2019, is a legendary two-day street festival held the weekend leading up to the Chicago Pride Parade, celebrating LGBTQ+ life, culture and community.

This year marks a milestone as we honor the 50th anniversary of Stonewall and the birth of the Pride movement.

This year features multi-platinum Grammy winner Leann Rimes, Brazilian sensation Pabllo Vittar & Broadway newcomer Alex Newell, and more artists to be announced soon!

Also featuring local favorites: Sixteen Candles – Rod Tuffcurls & The Bench Press – Boy Band Review – Catfight – Don’t Speak – Hello Weekend – Chicago Gay Men’s Chorus – Chicago Spirit Brigade – Miss Foozie’s Pride Pet Parade.

More info on 2019 Performers.

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Cirque du Soleil VOLTA Extended

Cirque du Soleil is excited to add two weeks of performances of VOLTA’s Chicago engagement this spring. The show will be presented under its signature Big Top at the Soldier Field South Lot, 1410 Museum Campus Drive, Chicago, May 18 – July 6, 2019. Tickets, starting at $49, are available for purchase by visitingcirquedusoleil.com/volta or calling 1-877-9CIRQUE (1-877-924-7783).

 

The show

Energetic, urban and contemporary, VOLTA is a captivating voyage of discovery that showcases never-before-seen under the Big Top acrobatics in a visually striking world. Driven by a stirring melodic score and inspired in part by the adventurous spirit that fuels the culture of street sports, VOLTA is a story of transformation. It is about being true to oneself, fulfilling one’s true potential, and recognizing one’s own power to make it possible. Ultimate freedom comes with self-acceptance, and with the liberation of the judgment of others.

 

BMX & Street Sports

The creators of VOLTA drew inspiration from the spirit of adventure that pervades the world of BMX, street sports and acrobatics. Whether they are on a bike, hopping from rooftop to rooftop, or double dutch rope skipping, urban sports enthusiasts constantly challenge themselves and defy convention.

Sure to be a Chicago crowd pleaser, VOLTA features a full-blown BMX park mounted on stage in front of the audience’s very eyes for the breathtaking BMX finale as riders invade the stage to deliver a jaw-dropping, fast and furious performance of nonstop acrobatics on wheels. The riders go up the jump boxes and perform air tricks before landing and leaping off the ramps again, crisscrossing and spinning their bikes in midair in a spirit of brotherhood.

The name VOLTA refers to a sudden about-face, a change in emotion or idea often used in poetry. It also speaks to the jolt of energy delivered through the show.

The Costumes

The stunning costumes of VOLTA have been designed by Zaldy Goco, famous for his work with Lady Gaga, Michael Jackson, Britney Spears, Gwen Stefany and for TV show RuPaul’s Drag Race.

 

Ticket Information

VOLTA will be presented under the Big Top at the Soldier Field South Lot, 1410 Museum Campus Drive, Chicago, starting May 18. Tickets can be purchased online at www.cirquedusoleil.com/volta. Discover our VIP package – a cocktail reception with open bar and hors d’ oeuvres inspired by the show, access to the best seats for greater comfort, complimentary parking and more!

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St Patricks Celebration Chicago- Mexican Style

Everything from green Mimosa’s  to green Margarita’s!

2 days!   2  Restaurants!

The dyeing of the river will begin at 9 a.m. Saturday, March 16 when the boats launch between Columbus and Wacker drives.  After  that,  TIME TO EAT AND DRINK  AND  PARTY!

      St. Patrick’s Day Celebration on  Saturday & Sunday!    

Saturday, March 16th doors open at 10 am for their amazing

                   Annual $25 Bottomless Green Mimosa Brunch!

                Enjoy Unlimited Mimosas and an Entree from the Brunch Menu. 

Brunch will be served from 10 am to 3 pm

 

All Day Specials:

$3 Bushmills Irish Whiskey Shots

$5 Green Clover Margaritas &  $5 Green Mimosas

 

Then on Sunday, join us for a St. Patty’s Day Hangover Brunch! 

Same Deal! Different Party! 

 

RESERVE TODAY!
El Mariachi Tequila Bar & Grill
Phone: 773.549.2932   /   3906 N. Broadway

Click the link below to reserve:
Website: http://www.elmariachitequilabar.com

 

Revolucion Mexican Steakhouse

Phone: 773.661.9893   /   3443 N. Broadway

Click the link below to reserve:

Website: http://www.revolucionsteakhouse.com

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CHER in Milwaukee May 12th

CHER will be back in Milwaukee  May 12th!

With her HERE WE GO AGAIN  tour!  This time,  she will perform at the new  Fiserv Arena  at 111 Vel R. Phillips Ave.

The DRESSED TO KILL  tour was the last time Cher was in MKE  in  2014.

This new tour will support her recent 26th album, DANCING QUEEN! A reimagining of classic  ABBA  songs!

GET TICKETS!

NILE ROGERS & CHIC are expected to open! An amazing night of  dancing music!

 

 

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Chef Tong at Bloomingdales Home Store March 16

A favorite whenever he appears, Chef Chris Tong of the private gourmet dining service, My Private Chef returns to the Bloomingdale’s for a South American cooking demonstration.

Chef will prepare a mouthwatering menu and give tips about ingredients and serving. And, everyone will enjoy a taste of each dish.

Chef Chris will serve some of his favorite recipes:

Hearts of Palm, Avocado and Tomato salad, Lime-Cilantro dressing

Marinated Flank Steak, Chimichurri Sauce
Argentinian Potato salad

He will appear on Saturday, March 16 from 2:00-4:00 p.m. at the Bloomingdale’s Home & Furniture Store, Medinah Temple, 600 N. Wabash Avenue, Chicago, Illinois. Demo kitchen on 1.

For more information about this free Bloomingdale’s event, please call 312.324.7678

My Private Chef is enjoying popularity as one of Chicago’s favorite private gourmet dining services.
Trained in European-style fine cuisine, Chef Tong established his reputation at fine restaurants and hotels in Florida, California, and Chicago. Now he has adapted his impressive skills to the world of private entertaining.

My Private Chef offers enticing cuisine for a wide range of events, from intimate dinners to weddings to corporate parties.

Chef Chris says: “Every event is different and I’ve met some wonderful people including many celebrities.
Being part of very special occasions makes my work worthwhile. I also love conducting cooking demonstrations where I get the feeling that audience members will go home and try some new dishes!”

For more information about My Private Chef, contact Event Services at 773.370.8131 or visit our web site: www.myprivatechef.net

We hope to see you there!

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Security Alert Pick Pockets in Boystown Bars

  BEWARE –

Security Advisory

An area bar in Lakeview reports a fast moving pickpocket operation hit their customers, with 5-10 cell phones and wallets stolen within minutes on Friday 2/15/2019.

Please report any information regarding incidents similar to this to Sgt. Levine (aaron.levine@chicagopolice.org) with the Chicago Police Department.

We have seen it coming.  Late  night  in Boystown,  people  getting  robbed.

Now they are going right into the bars!

Keep  your wallet and phone  in your front  pockets! Secure your valuables in a front pocket. While a skilled pickpocket can swipe your stuff from your front pocket, it’s more difficult to do than when your stuff is in your back pocket. 

Beware when talking to friendly  strangers.

The helpful stranger. A friendly stranger approaches you to wipe off some lint from your jacket. A few minutes later when you go to retrieve your wallet to buy a drink, you find it missing. Sometimes the ruse is even more elaborate: one person “accidentally” spills something on you, another helps you wipe off the mess, while a third takes advantage of the hoopla by stealing your wallet. If someone acts a little too friendly and helpful towards you, be suspicious. They could be a pickpocket (or the distracter in a pickpocketing team).

Taking advantage of the Good Samaritan. A stranger approaches you asking for help — maybe they have a map and are asking for directions, or they could fall in front of you, dropping everything they have in their hands. The clumsy person is really the distracting half of a pick-pocketing team; while your attention shifts towards helping them, their partner swoops in and stealthily makes off with your wallet.

Keep the bare minimum in your wallet. The less you have in your wallet, the less of a hassle it will be if you do get pickpocketed. Just keep a single credit card, a single form of ID, and a small amount of cash. That’s it.

We have ALL DONE THIS –  Never put your phone on the table when you’re eating. I’ve never understood why people put their smartphone on the table while eating; it’s rude and prevents you from being fully present with the folks you’re dining with. But if you’re one of those people who absolutely must keep their phone on the table while you’re at a restaurant, be aware that pickpockets are targeting you. A growing number of enterprising pickpockets are casing restaurants with outdoor eating areas and looking for phones sitting on tables. When they see one, they’ll swoop in as a team — one guy acting as the distraction (selling flowers, newspapers, candy, etc.), while his accomplice grabs the phone.

Lesson: Keep your smartphone tucked away on your person while you’re eating. The text messages can wait.

 

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I LOVE YOU, YOU’RE PERFECT, NOW CHANGE Feb 9th

CHICAGO THEATRE WORKSHOP PRESENTS PREMIERE, LGBTQ VERSION OF 

“I LOVE YOU, YOU’RE PERFECT, NOW CHANGE” 

Chicago Theatre Workshop (CTW) with permission from authors, Joe DiPietro and Jimmy Roberts will present a one-night only LGBTQ performance of their long running off-Broadway hit musical, “I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change” as a benefit for the company.

During the show’s nearly 20 year off-Broadway run, audiences celebrated the on stage relationships as a reflection of their own lives. CTW is excited to recalibrate the show’s series of vignettes focusing on the themes of love and relationships with an LGBTQ twist. Characters have now been re-imagined to reflect the lives of the LGBTQ community.

CTW Artistic Director Tom Mullen comments on the uniqueness of this benefit production, “This is a great joy for us, I’ve directed Love/Perfect a couple times before and I’ve always felt that this could really be an exciting version to try to do. It’s a great opportunity to really highlight that when it comes to love and relationships, we are all equal in our wants and wishes. We’ve also assembled an incredible cast and creative team and are so thankful to Joe and Jimmy to allow us to do this.”

 

Co-Author Joe DiPietro echoed Tom’s message, “When Tom called and asked about doing an all-gay version of I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change (once dubbed the straightest off-Broadway hit ever,) Jimmy Roberts and I readily agreed.  I’ve always been a big fan of Tom’s work, and I can’t wait to see his very contemporary and, I’m sure, very hilarious take on the show.”

 

WHEN: Saturday, February 9, 2019

WHERE: Center on Halsted, 3656 N. Halsted Street, Chicago

TIME: Doors open at 7:30pm show at 8:00pm

COST: $45 General Admission. Tickets for the performance can be purchased on line at www.chicagotheatreworkshop.org. VIP and Sponsorship ticket packages are also available by contacting CTW.

 

The cast includes: Karl Hamilton, Charissa Armon, Melissa Young, Honey West, Lars Ebsworth, Noah Berman, and Jessica Vann. More are slated to be added. Musical Direction is by Nick Sula with direction by Tom Mullen.

 

At Chicago Theatre Workshop, we identify promising new works of music-influenced theatre and continually evolve them through live productions. Through our unique model, audiences can experience the life of a single production as it constantly changes and evolves. Risk. Reward. 

 

Photo: Charissa Armon & Karl Hamilton

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Chicago Restaurant Week in Lakeview

JAN. 25 – FEB. 7, 2019

Don’t miss the biggest restaurant event of the year! Chicago Restaurant Week returns for two weeks of dining deals from hundreds of celebrated restaurants all across the city.

This year’s Chicago Restaurant Week will be the largest ever, with nearly 400 local restaurants participating. That includes over 100 first-time participants and 45 suburban restaurants.

The 12th annual culinary celebration features special prix fixe menus starting at $24 for brunch and lunch, and $36 and/or $48 for dinner (excluding beverages, tax and gratuity). It’s the perfect excuse to visit an old favorite or try somewhere new.

2 of our favorite places in Lakeview will be Participating!

Don’t Miss out – Get a  reservation!

El Mariachi 3906 N Broadway

and Revolucion 3443 N Broadway

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