Thursday 5/23/2013
The Games We Play
Replay:
Remember when your parents said, playing video games was just a waste of time? Well, they weren’t entirely correct. Boystown’s newest night life arcade, Replay Beer and Bourbon, boasts some of the best old school video games around, and one bitchin Spider Man wall!
Owner Mark Lieberson held a special party at the former Bucks Saloon, previewing the new space before their grand opening this weekend. Replay boasts designs of an arcade with over 20 retro arcade games ranging from Ms. Pac-Man to Galaga, Space Invaders to Donkey Kong.
Replay also features more than 24 craft beers on tap and a cocktail menu designed by mixologist, Danny Quinn. Speaking of cocktails, last night I sampled the Ecto Cooler, made with Hangar One orange vodka, orange liquor, lemon juice, Yellow Chartreuse, and a touch of San Pellegrino Orange. OH MY WORD! It was so delicious!
Be sure to check out the photos from last night’s viewing, by Anthony Meade.
Don’t forget, this weekend features International Mr. Leather, Combustion, and the Grabby’s.
Get out and enjoy the city of Chicago!
Bill Pritchard
Make A Difference|Facebook|Email Bill
https://twitter.com/Bill_Pritchard
Remember when your parents said, playing video games was just a waste of time? Well, they weren’t entirely correct. Boystown’s newest night life arcade, Replay Beer and Bourbon, boasts some of the best old school video games around, and one bitchin Spider Man wall!
Owner Mark Lieberson held a special party at the former Bucks Saloon, previewing the new space before their grand opening this weekend. Replay boasts designs of an arcade with over 20 retro arcade games ranging from Ms. Pac-Man to Galaga, Space Invaders to Donkey Kong.
Replay also features more than 24 craft beers on tap and a cocktail menu designed by mixologist, Danny Quinn. Speaking of cocktails, last night I sampled the Ecto Cooler, made with Hangar One orange vodka, orange liquor, lemon juice, Yellow Chartreuse, and a touch of San Pellegrino Orange. OH MY WORD! It was so delicious!
Be sure to check out the photos from last night’s viewing, by Anthony Meade.
Don’t forget, this weekend features International Mr. Leather, Combustion, and the Grabby’s.
Get out and enjoy the city of Chicago!
Bill Pritchard
Make A Difference|Facebook|Email Bill
Interview with Brent Corrigan
Monday 5/20/2013
Sunday Funday Fellowship
Gay Church:
As many of you know, I’m a big fan of the Sunday experience! So much, that oft times I’ll stay in on a Saturday night if I’m able to. Heavens, I could stay in all weekend, if given the chance, and make Sunday my day out and about.
Last Sunday was no exception
Getting a text from Philip at Angelina’s, I joined he and bartender straight Graham for a spot of revelry. Lots of laughs with them, and the entire staff! They are all so kind and SO cute! Have you seeeeeen Bryan Brochu!?
I was joined at the stroke of 12 Noon, by my longtime friend, Kathleen Scovel. She’s always a joy to be around and a lot of laughs!
ChicagoPride.com Appreciation:
ChicagoPride.com has been many things in my life; labor, joy, effort, meaningful and challenging. Like all rewarding things, it takes the good and bad to make it such a blessing.
We could not be who we are at ChicagoPride.com without the marvelous contributors! Day in and day out, they give their time and investment to this online community. I’m pretty grateful! We could not be who we are at ChicagoPride.com without the marvelous contributors! Day in and day out, they give their time and investment to this online community. I’m pretty grateful!
To show our appreciation, we threw a party at Cesar's on Broadway. It was such fun time of fellowship and amazing drinks. Folks from all over Chicago stopped by to say hello and celebrate our great collaboration.
I can’t begin to say how thankful I am to all of you who help make ChicagoPride.com, the community site it is. Authors, photographers, bloggers, and viewers! Thank you!
Have a great week!
Bill Pritchard
Make A Difference|Facebook|Email Bill
As many of you know, I’m a big fan of the Sunday experience! So much, that oft times I’ll stay in on a Saturday night if I’m able to. Heavens, I could stay in all weekend, if given the chance, and make Sunday my day out and about.
Last Sunday was no exception
Getting a text from Philip at Angelina’s, I joined he and bartender straight Graham for a spot of revelry. Lots of laughs with them, and the entire staff! They are all so kind and SO cute! Have you seeeeeen Bryan Brochu!?
I was joined at the stroke of 12 Noon, by my longtime friend, Kathleen Scovel. She’s always a joy to be around and a lot of laughs!
ChicagoPride.com Appreciation:
ChicagoPride.com has been many things in my life; labor, joy, effort, meaningful and challenging. Like all rewarding things, it takes the good and bad to make it such a blessing.
We could not be who we are at ChicagoPride.com without the marvelous contributors! Day in and day out, they give their time and investment to this online community. I’m pretty grateful! We could not be who we are at ChicagoPride.com without the marvelous contributors! Day in and day out, they give their time and investment to this online community. I’m pretty grateful!
To show our appreciation, we threw a party at Cesar's on Broadway. It was such fun time of fellowship and amazing drinks. Folks from all over Chicago stopped by to say hello and celebrate our great collaboration.
I can’t begin to say how thankful I am to all of you who help make ChicagoPride.com, the community site it is. Authors, photographers, bloggers, and viewers! Thank you!
Have a great week!
Bill Pritchard
Make A Difference|Facebook|Email Bill
Good golly, Miss Molly : an interview with Molly Ringwald
Friday 4/26/2013
Gettin Around
Dining Out for Life Tour:
The last few years, I’ve enjoyed a fun tradition during EdgeAlliance’s Annual Dining Out for Life. I see how many participating restaurants I can patronize in the evening; thereby giving more funds to the cause of men, women & children living with HIV/AIDS. This year was no exception.
The fun started at Taverna 750 where I ran into artist Becky Chmielewski and her charming girlfriend Jodie Gardner. I swear, we always run into each other at just the right time! It was nice to catch up and sip well-made libations. They are going to help me explore this new found fascination I have for beer and make me an honorary Lesbian.
Now, I know I’ve said it a million times before, but the staff at Taverna really goes out of its way and does such a great job. Last night was no exception. Joining me was gal-pal and Taverna 750 owner, Paul Cannella. True to form, Paulie was there to support the DOFL night like everyone else. However, my night was made when he said he’d join me on my tour! We enjoyed a sumptuous dinner, including spaghetti squash; something I’ve never had before. It was so delicious and way better than any noodle I’ve had.
Also dining at Taverna 750 was my dear friend and ChicagoPride.com blogger, Paul Blackburn. He was joined by his cute boyfriend Edward and pals Michael Peppershaker and Scott. Nothing makes my day more than a bunch of cute guys doing the right thing for a good cause. And as much as those fella’s like to drink, I’m sure EdgeAlliance out did this years fundraising goals!
Paulie and I shuffled off to enjoy a drive-by-dessert and drinks with Philip and Carson at Angelina’s. The Dining Out for Life buzz was alive and well there too. In addition to seeing Hot Jason, I was pleased to run into my Sunday-Funday-Gay-Church bartender, Straight Graham. I could chit-chat with him all day. Yes, he’s incredibly cute himself, but seriously, the guy is very intelligent and damn funny. We’re going to start a talk show called “Talkin About Gina’s”.
From there we schlepped off to D.S. Tequila Co where we met up with Mamma for some beers and boys. I’ll tell you what, Teri is a force of nature. Honest, real and damn fun! Keeping on schedule, we headed over to Minibar Ultra Lounge and Café, where Dalai Mamma Linda Little was holding court. SO MANY friendly faces greeted us upon entry, including the white devil himself, Jay Pantzis, (Like Kansas) Robin Cook and co-owner Stu Zirin.
A beer later, and we were out the door and off to Wood. There we ran into GRAB Magazine’s Mark Nagle. Always the life of the party, Mark makes the night wherever he goes. After a tasty Sazerac (A variation of an old-fashioned, named for the Sazerac de Forge et Fils brand of cognac that was its original prime ingredient.) we were off to close the night at Scarlet. As always, we were greeting as if we owned the place (Wink-Wink!) and proceeded to consume our last adult beverage.
You know you’ve succeeded well in a Dining Out for Life tour, when Paul’s ready to go home at midnight. With that I ended my night.
Thanks to all of you who dined/drank in your community. Friends from all over the United States participated and really showed up! It’s marvelous to see a difference like that.
Blessed!
Bill Pritchard
Make A Difference|Facebook|Email Bill
The last few years, I’ve enjoyed a fun tradition during EdgeAlliance’s Annual Dining Out for Life. I see how many participating restaurants I can patronize in the evening; thereby giving more funds to the cause of men, women & children living with HIV/AIDS. This year was no exception.
The fun started at Taverna 750 where I ran into artist Becky Chmielewski and her charming girlfriend Jodie Gardner. I swear, we always run into each other at just the right time! It was nice to catch up and sip well-made libations. They are going to help me explore this new found fascination I have for beer and make me an honorary Lesbian.
Now, I know I’ve said it a million times before, but the staff at Taverna really goes out of its way and does such a great job. Last night was no exception. Joining me was gal-pal and Taverna 750 owner, Paul Cannella. True to form, Paulie was there to support the DOFL night like everyone else. However, my night was made when he said he’d join me on my tour! We enjoyed a sumptuous dinner, including spaghetti squash; something I’ve never had before. It was so delicious and way better than any noodle I’ve had.
Also dining at Taverna 750 was my dear friend and ChicagoPride.com blogger, Paul Blackburn. He was joined by his cute boyfriend Edward and pals Michael Peppershaker and Scott. Nothing makes my day more than a bunch of cute guys doing the right thing for a good cause. And as much as those fella’s like to drink, I’m sure EdgeAlliance out did this years fundraising goals!
Paulie and I shuffled off to enjoy a drive-by-dessert and drinks with Philip and Carson at Angelina’s. The Dining Out for Life buzz was alive and well there too. In addition to seeing Hot Jason, I was pleased to run into my Sunday-Funday-Gay-Church bartender, Straight Graham. I could chit-chat with him all day. Yes, he’s incredibly cute himself, but seriously, the guy is very intelligent and damn funny. We’re going to start a talk show called “Talkin About Gina’s”.
From there we schlepped off to D.S. Tequila Co where we met up with Mamma for some beers and boys. I’ll tell you what, Teri is a force of nature. Honest, real and damn fun! Keeping on schedule, we headed over to Minibar Ultra Lounge and Café, where Dalai Mamma Linda Little was holding court. SO MANY friendly faces greeted us upon entry, including the white devil himself, Jay Pantzis, (Like Kansas) Robin Cook and co-owner Stu Zirin.
A beer later, and we were out the door and off to Wood. There we ran into GRAB Magazine’s Mark Nagle. Always the life of the party, Mark makes the night wherever he goes. After a tasty Sazerac (A variation of an old-fashioned, named for the Sazerac de Forge et Fils brand of cognac that was its original prime ingredient.) we were off to close the night at Scarlet. As always, we were greeting as if we owned the place (Wink-Wink!) and proceeded to consume our last adult beverage.
You know you’ve succeeded well in a Dining Out for Life tour, when Paul’s ready to go home at midnight. With that I ended my night.
Thanks to all of you who dined/drank in your community. Friends from all over the United States participated and really showed up! It’s marvelous to see a difference like that.
Blessed!
Bill Pritchard
Make A Difference|Facebook|Email Bill
ChicagoPride.com’s Instagram
Tuesday 4/23/2013
Dining Out for Life
Eat This!:
This Thursday, EdgeAlliance hosts the 20th Annual Dining Out for Life, an evening of good food, great friends, and the largest HIV/AIDS fundraiser in North America!
In fact, Dining Out for Life happens in 60 cities throughout the country. Last year, EdgeAlliance raised over $110,000 to continue its mission of providing housing with life services to men, women & children living with HIV/AIDS. This year they hope to raise even more!
You can help Make A Difference in the lives of those in need, just by dining out on Thursday, April 25th at these participating restaurants in Chicago-land; or these in San Francisco, Seattle, Palm Springs, Indianapolis, or Washington DC.
Everyone loves to go out and eat. There are restaurants for everyone’s budget. Grab a group of friends; make some reservations, and dine for a difference!
This year, I’ll be enjoying a sumptuous dinner at one of my favorite spots in Chicago, Taverna 750; followed by a drive-by-dessert and drinks with Phillip and Carson at Angelina’s.
By the time the evening is over, we are sure to be full, and fulfilled, all whilst making an impact! I hope you’ll take part!
Cheers Dammit!
Bill Pritchard
Make A Difference|Facebook|Email Bill
This Thursday, EdgeAlliance hosts the 20th Annual Dining Out for Life, an evening of good food, great friends, and the largest HIV/AIDS fundraiser in North America!
In fact, Dining Out for Life happens in 60 cities throughout the country. Last year, EdgeAlliance raised over $110,000 to continue its mission of providing housing with life services to men, women & children living with HIV/AIDS. This year they hope to raise even more!
You can help Make A Difference in the lives of those in need, just by dining out on Thursday, April 25th at these participating restaurants in Chicago-land; or these in San Francisco, Seattle, Palm Springs, Indianapolis, or Washington DC.
Everyone loves to go out and eat. There are restaurants for everyone’s budget. Grab a group of friends; make some reservations, and dine for a difference!
This year, I’ll be enjoying a sumptuous dinner at one of my favorite spots in Chicago, Taverna 750; followed by a drive-by-dessert and drinks with Phillip and Carson at Angelina’s.
By the time the evening is over, we are sure to be full, and fulfilled, all whilst making an impact! I hope you’ll take part!
Cheers Dammit!
Bill Pritchard
Make A Difference|Facebook|Email Bill
Glee: Darren Criss sings 'So Long DOMA, and Goodbye Prop 8' at GLAAD Media Awards
Thursday 4/4/2013
Spring is in the air
The unveiling of spring:
My friend Paul Cannella and the marvelous, hard-working team at Taverna 750 (750 West Cornelia Ave., 773-904-7466) hosted their spring Menu launch last night; a great seasonal dinner menu prepared by Chef Christopher Coker
Christopher truly outdid himself, with delicious selections of spring vegetables and savory chicken and seafood. Being a fan of asparagus and poultry myself, I was in pure heaven at the combinations. Chef admitted to me, that he would have liked every person to receive their own plated presentation, but that just wasn’t possible. Seventy plus attendees joined in the fun. Among them, were VIP’s patrons who frequent Taverna 750 via Open Table. This was Paul’s way of saying thank you. Now that’s classy!
Among the evening’s festivities were tasty libations by mixologist Benjamin Newby. As crazy fun as he is, his cocktail inventions are beyond delicious! Something must also be said about the outrageous floral arrangements of my friend Howard Silver. He is so creative and gifted in that arena. Those of you Lakeview loungers know Howard’s work all too well, if you’ve enjoyed Taverna 750’s outdoor patio. That boy has a green hand!
While there, I ran into Birthday Boy Andy Ambrosius, Editor of Lakeview Patch and his sweet boyfriend Vince. It was good to catch up and bit and to finally meet Vince! Also enjoying the eats was the Guru of Gays himself, Kirk Williamson, Editor of Nightspots. Kirk is a real gem; always sweet and snarky. Additionally, it was nice to run into pals Michael Snell and Derrick Sorles of Best Gay Cities. Those boys are outrageous!
Afterwards, folks were treated to an after party at Scarlet; where all were spoiled rotten with mid-week libations and tunes.
Thanks to Paul and all at Taverna 750 for your marvelous hospitality! The new menu is available as of today, so make your reservations.
A happy patron,
Bill Pritchard
Make A Difference|Facebook|Email Bill
My friend Paul Cannella and the marvelous, hard-working team at Taverna 750 (750 West Cornelia Ave., 773-904-7466) hosted their spring Menu launch last night; a great seasonal dinner menu prepared by Chef Christopher Coker
Christopher truly outdid himself, with delicious selections of spring vegetables and savory chicken and seafood. Being a fan of asparagus and poultry myself, I was in pure heaven at the combinations. Chef admitted to me, that he would have liked every person to receive their own plated presentation, but that just wasn’t possible. Seventy plus attendees joined in the fun. Among them, were VIP’s patrons who frequent Taverna 750 via Open Table. This was Paul’s way of saying thank you. Now that’s classy!
Among the evening’s festivities were tasty libations by mixologist Benjamin Newby. As crazy fun as he is, his cocktail inventions are beyond delicious! Something must also be said about the outrageous floral arrangements of my friend Howard Silver. He is so creative and gifted in that arena. Those of you Lakeview loungers know Howard’s work all too well, if you’ve enjoyed Taverna 750’s outdoor patio. That boy has a green hand!
While there, I ran into Birthday Boy Andy Ambrosius, Editor of Lakeview Patch and his sweet boyfriend Vince. It was good to catch up and bit and to finally meet Vince! Also enjoying the eats was the Guru of Gays himself, Kirk Williamson, Editor of Nightspots. Kirk is a real gem; always sweet and snarky. Additionally, it was nice to run into pals Michael Snell and Derrick Sorles of Best Gay Cities. Those boys are outrageous!
Afterwards, folks were treated to an after party at Scarlet; where all were spoiled rotten with mid-week libations and tunes.
Thanks to Paul and all at Taverna 750 for your marvelous hospitality! The new menu is available as of today, so make your reservations.
A happy patron,
Bill Pritchard
Make A Difference|Facebook|Email Bill
HRC's Red Letter Day
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