Author Profile Most Recent Posts Send Private Mail Blog RSS Feed Add to Friends

The Perfect Sun Day:
With the weather outside being just perfect, (63 degrees) I was on cloud nine all Saturday! (Origin of phrase: It was believed that clouds existed on a successful level of layers, and the ultimate high layer was 9. So, anyone who is suddenly super happy was said to be soaring in the clouds and naturally the level of the cloud they were assumed to be on was the highest...level 9)

I’m sure the early start to my day, the breakfast with Isaiah and the many cups of coffee I had helped! Whilst at the counter of Caribou Coffee I felt a sizable cup of my bum and turned around to find my long lost pal Ronnie standing behind me. It was one of those Capra-esq moments (See: Frank Capra, Director: It's a Wonderful Life and Mr Smith Goes to Washington) when all time stood still. It was nice to catch up! We made plans to meet up later that evening for some fellowship with the boys of Boystown.

I also had the pleasure of running into Jason Steele of Red Eye fame. He’s such a nice guy. Clearly we both get our inspiration from being around people at the Gayberhood coffee shop. Watch out Perez!


Party Of The Year:
The generosity of John Dalton and Stu Zrin at Minibar|Winebar never ceases to impress me! Once again they spared no expense in providing table service for Ronnie and me. (See Picture Above) We were able to enjoy some fellowship and greet friends with comfort! I was a bit nervous for it all to go well. I knew that everyone wanted to see Ronnie, and he wanted to see them too. I just didn’t want him to have to work so hard. Damn can I be a dumba_s sometimes. Ronnie’s a lot like me; we just can’t leave a room alone! :-) As always, Minibar’s Dexter took such great care of us all night! He kept the Goose and fruit flowing and I kept Ronnie’s glass full. (Note: Special thank you to my Father who always encouraged me to “Get so-and-so another drink”)

Who’s Who:
Everyone was so happy to be reunited with our Boystown celebrity! It was fun to see Bill Healy there with his pal Russell. My family’s Barney’s advisor, Jeffery stopped by to say hello. What an impressive person! It was also a treat to see Obama LGBT Front man, Jamie Cirron. As busy as he is, any time with him is good time!

ChicagoPride.com photographer Jay was there to snap pics of all the snazzy dressed folks. My friend Matt Richards surprised the heck out of me by being out and about! He is one very likeable fellow! He’s also a kindred spirit! We’ve made plans to meet up later this week.

New Chicago socialite Brad Hammer was on hand with a very fetching hat! He’s spared no time in getting plugged in to the Chicago scene! The future Mayor of Boystown, Tommy Holl came by as well. Is it just me or does this boy know everyone!?!?! I swear, I will be out of an honorary job before long!

Joining Ronnie and me at the table was Ronnie’s pal (and now mine) Todd Hatoff! He’s a damn good egg and is a true friend for Ronnie. Also joining the table was my pal John M. and his cute friend Brian. Of course more folks sat with us throughout the evening; in between dance breaks and makeout sessions. (Comedy!)

I’m always happy to see my patient & pal John Reilly! He’s always got a smile on that cute photogenic face! Naturally, Ryan Andrew, Jim Bonfield and Chicago Male Salon hottie Kevin Anthony said hello!

Minibar staffer, Kyle (See Picture) was also on hand with boyfriend Danny. What a damn cute couple! Kyle is a very sweet guy and I have to say one of the cutest that I know! The music of the night was damn intense! DJ Phil DaBeatz was in excellent form to be sure! Jersey Boys music man Ben Hartman came by to catch up. Ben is one great guy and I always love seeing him!

Good Night Sweetheart:
Around 1:30, Ronnie looked a bit woofed so I offered to walk him to Todd’s place, where he was staying. I now know what it’s like when Isaiah gets me out of an event. Ronnie didn’t want to ignore the hellos but really wanted to get home. It’s hard to say no sometimes.

Our walk to Todd’s was just delightful! It was the first quiet time we had all night. Ha Ha! Clearly he’s happy to be home. At one point in the evening he said to me, “I love New York but I’m IN LOVE with Chicago”. What a nice boy!

I stopped back at Minibar to say thank you and then brought some of my pals to Hydrate where Tommy Holl had a drink with me! (Scratch that one off the list) As I climbed the steps to my flat I was greeted at the door by my hairy dog. THAT is always a pleasant surprise as she’s really damn old and looking ready to go to heaven these days. :-( All in all, a “Model” day!


SHOUT OUT:Gal-pal, Jake Conrad, My Singapore Envoy, David Cruse Beal , Hometown Crush, Dylan Glocker, My pal and movie star, Brent Corrigan, My buddy, Brian Douglass, Advisor Edward, CK, Saturday Birthday boy, Steven Farquhar, My first best pal in Chicago, Jeremy Ehrhart, Former Roommate Clyde, Military intelligent, Josh, Celebrating his birthday this Wednesday, Ryan Yoder, Bus Friend, Stephen Gallagher, and finally my bitch Buffy

Have a great week!
~Bill

I’ve Missed Him:
Still feeling the spirit of the festivities at Winebar the other evening, I can’t wait to get my hands on Ronnie! I know he’s a big star now, but he was my pal before he was a star. I can’t tell you how funny that is to me! I liken it to my family’s relationship with the Gate’s family. Our two families have been friends for so long I can remember Bill before he became the richest man in the world. Just a regular guy, really!

Just before Ronnie left for New York, he and I had coffee together. I’ve thought about that time a lot over the last three months. He’s gone through so much since then. It’s made me think once again about the importance of saying what needs to be said, before it’s too late. I for one feel wonderful about everything that we said to each other. I am also VERY proud of my friend!

TGIF:
Once again I was the lucky guy to meet up with John M. for dinner at Angelina’s John is always great to hangout with! Hear Ye, Hear Ye, single boys, he’s available and might I say, well guarded by his pals. So please no psychos, stalkers, or weirdoes! We had a perfect dinner and were waited on by my pal and everyone else’s, Brett! I have to say hello to Bartender Danni! It was a delight to meet you! The nickname that Brett gave you was right on!!

From there we were off to Lakeview Broadcasting Co. to see my dear friend and celebrity bartender, Heather host an open bar. I have to say, if you haven’t been to LBC in a while, get back there! I’ve never had a bad time, the music is right on and owner Steven Westman is pretty hot!

Since Heather and I are going to be married (Side Note: See Will & Grace episode___) someday, she wanted to introduce me to her brother, Ross. Sweet lord was he a big boy! DAMN! It’s clear to see that this cute guy loves his sister! His wife to be, Mary (Side Note: Don’t you love it when a girl named Mary hangs out near Boystown!?) could not have been anymore sweet!

Trying to enjoy my box of wine (I know…) John and I had a great time chatting. (We always do!) Around 10:30, I started the trek home. John wanted me to meet his “Friend” Brett who was coming to meet up with him at LBC. Date? Not-A-Date? Time will tell. Turns out that Brett is one of my MySpace pals. We’ve talked about meeting up for a long time. It has to be said, he’s damn cute!

Anthony Fagiano:
With a BEAUTIFUL Saturday in Boystown, (It’s gonna be 63 degrees!) I am eager to enjoy every minute of it! Of course a sunny day always makes folks ready for a randy night later. This evening I hope to run into former Chicago boy and ChicagoPride.com hottie, Anthony Fagiano. He surprised me the other night at Minibar|Winebar Fajjj is living his life up in LA as a promoter most assuredly under the gentle tutelage of Socialite Jonathan Chang.

Native Son:
Ronnie (See Picture Above) and I just met up at Caribou and he wants to come out and about tonight. SO, I will be hosting him tonight at Minibar. Join us!

SPECIAL SHOUT OUT: I want to take a moment to wish Michael my pal from back in the day working with NIKE a big hi and hello! You are too damn sweet and fabulous to read my BLOG! We should get you to come out to Chicago sometime! The girls, AND guys would be in love with you! ;-)

SHOUT OUT: Editor Steve who, like the lord always seems to be in my head. Gal-pal, Jake Conrad, My Singapore Envoy, David Cruse Beal , Chicago Piano Man Ben Hartman, My pal Amy Armstrong, My buddy, Brian Douglass, Advisor Edward, My first best pal in Chicago, Jeremy Ehrhart, The damn attractive, Clay Hinkle, Lakeview Broadcasting Co. beauty, Heather, Billy Yoder, London’s Big Al, and finally, my bitch Buffy

Happy Sun Day!!
~Bill

And The Winner Is:
Enjoying the night at Winebar with John M. and Advisor Edward along with my pals Stu and John we enjoyed some great fellowship!

It was the occasion of the final episode of Make Me A Super Model starring my pal Ronnie Kroell. Sadly the award went to some girl, but truly the winner in the eyes of Boystown probably the country was Ronnie!

With a noticeable sigh in the air, we learned the news about Ronnie’s first place status as the last standing male from a cast of hotties from around the country. I would have liked to have seen him win, but anyone who knows Ronnie knows that he won before he even left Chicago!

It was a joy to be able to talk with him for a few moments on the phone. Clearly the boy has had the time of his life. “Give everyone a hug and let them know how special they are to me…”, he said. That is something we know all to well!

Traveling back to Chicago and the family he missed; Ronnie will be back tomorrow. I for one am a happy friend about that!

SHOUT OUT: Advisor Edward, My best friend, Isaiah, Former LBC party boy, Patrick, and finally, My Bitch Buffy

Cheers!
~Bill

Don’t Forget To Add Your Comment Below!

Spring my a_s! I have to admit, with snow and chilly breezes outside the weekend remained rather pretty outside.

Thank God It's Friday:
I was the lucky guy to meet up with cute John M. (See Picture) for dinner at Jack's. John is such a treat to hangout with! We had the perfect dinner as only Jack's can do! Of course, I have to give props to Bartender John who always remembers me and treats me like gold! From there we were off to Minibar|Winebar to host my pal Jim Verraros for the evening.

A True Star:
ChicagoPride.com and Minibar|Winebar sponsored an Evening With Jim Verraros. John Dalton and Stu Zrin spared no expense to show us a fun time. I have to say a big thank you to cocktail server Dexter for all his hard work! The Men of Minibar were looking great and kind enough to pause for a photo with Jim and Me. (See Picture Above) I am often fortunate to meet people who are famous for one reason or another. Many times that fame goes to their heads or changes who they are. I can say with great conviction that Jim Verraros is not such a celebrity. Every time I hangout with Jim I am blessed by his humility and graciousness. I was also honored to meet Jim’s partner Bill. How nice was he! A special thank you to Editor Steve for arranging everything! I wish you could have been there pal!

Kiss My . . . .:
Joining me in hosting duties was none other than Editor-At-Large and celebrity advocate, Jason P. Freeman. I honestly don’t know where to begin with him! He’s got so much energy and clearly has some wonderful stories to tell. Every time I would turn around, Jason was introducing Jim to this boy and that person. He was snapping more pictures than paparazzi in heat. He asked me to snap a photo of he and uber-cute Jake Conrad and I was blown away when he grabbed the un-expecting boy and laid a big a_s kiss on his face. Thankfully Jake is able to receive free counseling at the Center on Halsted!

My pal Chicago Male Salon owner, Scott and his date, Sean joined us and my friend Thomas of Lady Vera Parker fame stopped by to say hello. We were especially honored to have Fausto Fernós join in the fun! He’s such a fun guy! A surprise guest was my dear friend Bill Healy! I always love having Bill around! Bill got himself drunk.(See Footnote)

Saturday’s Our Day:
Many times you’ve heard me talk about my best friend Isaiah and our Saturday tradition of going to breakfast. We started doing those years ago when we dated. I can’t tell you how much I appreciate our consistent friendship. It’s something I am very proud of. After breakfast we ventured downtown and did a bit of shopping for things we need. For me it was socks and belts. (Side Note: Socks and belts are like ketchup and deodorant. You just hate to waste you money on them, but you need them) From there we enjoyed each others fellowship at our favorite grocery store, Trader Joe’s. I always feel like I’m steeling from them as their prices are so damn low and their quality is so high!

Hello Young Ones:
Saturday evening I joined Advisor Edward for a glass of wine at Firefly. If you’re a reader of my blog you know that I think highly of Edward! He and his boss Dr. Drew are great pals! We enjoyed some fabulous fellowship and then headed over to Scarlet for a libation there with damn cute Bartender Drew and events manager Tom Dziarma.

Afterwards we headed to Minibar to join John M. and his friends Laura and Diana. Isaiah joined us and the pictures ensued. A night out and about wouldn’t be complete if we didn’t meet new friends. This was one such night for us. (I’m one of those weirdo’s that likes to remember where I was and what I was doing when I met someone.) Was it just me or where there a lot of young guys out and about on Saturday. I will never understand what it is about today’s youth that they like us “older” guys. This weekend, I was not the only recipient of that odd attention. COMEDY!
(Note to Parents: Mom & Dad, I am not dating anyone.)

Put that Back On:
My young friend Jake Conrad (See Picture) desperately wanted to see the inside of Lucky Horseshoe. Knowing not to allow him to go by himself (He’s a bit on the cute side) I took him there. Oh my! Sufficed to say, it was a quick experience. I went back to say good night to my pal DJ Phil DaBeatz. On the way home, Jake and I stepped in to Little Jim’s to see if Advisor Edward was holding court. Sadly, he wasn’t. We did enjoy lusting at the $1 mini bag of Cheeze It’s in the vending M.ine though. From there it was off to bed!

Easter:
I want to thank everyone for the well wishes I received on Easter via text. What a wonderful treat to hear from friends around the world! Sunday was a day that I focused 110% on my Bitch Buffy. (See Picture) She’s one very old dog and clearly doesn’t have much time left with us. I know it’s a bit corny, but having her in my life for all these years has really brought a great appreciation of her companionship. I really do enjoy my “Me Times” as John would say, but having my sweet dog around makes that time even more special. I cooked all afternoon (I like cooking for the week. It cuts down on snacking and eating crappy food) and she cleaned the stuff that fell on the floor. What made for the perfect day were the two phone calls from loved ones. One was from Isaiah and the other from my sainted parents. I think holiday’s always make me miss them more!

SHOUT OUT: My Singapore Envoy, David Cruse Beal , Chicago Piano Man Ben Hartman, My hot neighbor, Adrianne, My pals Amy Armstrong & Freddy Allen, My gal-pal, Zach, My buddy, Brian Douglass, My first best pal in Chicago, Jeremy Ehrhart, My Mom for her egg education, My Christian brother, Ed Levassure, Difference Maker, Trey Gonzales, The damn attractive, Clay Hinkle, My pal, Ronnie Kroell, Lakeview Broadcasting Co. beauty, Heather, New ChicagoPride.com Blogger, Regina UPright, Hot Gay Brothers Ryan & Billy Yoder and finally, my bitch Buffy

Cheers Queers!
~Bill

(Footnote: It was not my fault Mr. Healy got himself drunk as I kept my sidearm that I would normally use to convince consumption, holstered)

Show:
I had a blast last night that the Chicago Free Press (CFP) “Pressie” Awards show! The gang at Sidetrack rolled out the red carpet for all of the LGBT community and they delivered in their usual perfect fashion!

CFP’s Dawn Pope arranged and ran one organized event! I have to say, with as many events as I participate in and go to, this one was so well planned out! Right when I got there I was handed everything I needed and every question was answered before I even asked. Of course Dawn had the help of Boystown melody man GIO and Scarlet events manager & cutie Tom Dziarma. Seriously, those two earned their weight in gold with all their hard work. (Side Note: Ever notice how hard people work behind the scenes!?)

And You Are:
Seriously, there was some of Chicago’s most well known in attendance! Every time I turned around, I saw someone that I recognized from television or print. I was blessed to have one such person in Dustin Erikstrup! (See Picture Above) He came up and introduce himself to me. It turns out that Dustin and I are Facebook friends. A fact he brought to my attention by asking me why I asked him to be my friend when we had never met. My answer was simple. . . He was probably hot. (And, he IS! You can’t blame me!) After a little bit of chit-chat, I learned that Dustin starred on the last season of Big Brother. I had no idea. I apologized admitting that I’m not much of a television watcher. He was really sweet about understanding and truthfully didn’t seem to mind. Honestly, I found Dustin to be really down to earth and not really affected by the whole “Reality Television” thing. Very refreshing to be sure!

Famous and Infamous:
With familiar faces all around I enjoyed saying hello to everyone! Of course I was able to fellowship a bit with Boystown favorite Miss Foozie. Foo was taking home the award for “Best Female Impersonator”. Hosting Foozie was none other than ChicagoPride.com President, Matthew Inawat and his sweet partner Brian. I can’t tell you what a pleasure it was for me to see Matthew & Brian having fun! And, fun is what we had. I was only wishing that Editor Steve was there too! It was a super pleasure to run into ChicagoPride.com’s Editor-At-Large and celebrity advocate, Jason P. Freeman. I am convinced that Jason can make any situation fun and high energy!

Speaking of celebrity, my pal former "American Idol" finalist and ChicagoPride.com Columnist, Jim Verraros was not only an award recipient but also a featured part of the show; singing a few songs. I love me some Jim! (More about that later!)

I had the pleasure of meeting Project Runway’s Steven Rosengard. Oh my word, he couldn’t have been more kind! (And cute!) We had a blast making each other laugh as we stood in line waiting to go on stage. I also ran into LGBT gal pal and Fag-Friendly state Representative Sarah Feigenholtz in line. She is such a hoot and was in great spirits last night as she presented an award. Of course it is always a pleasure to run into the super cute candidate herself, Deb Mell, announcing the award for best politician Mayor Richard M. Daley.

Seeing community DJ Greg Haus and award winning DJ Laura B! was also a treat. These two sure have been playing the tunes a long time in Boystown! I was also happy to finally meet ArtReach Educational Theatre’s own Dan Walsh who’s been a online pal for quite some time! Of course running in to my favorite cocktail waiter and CFP’s Go Guide Guy, Vince Lane and ChicagoPride.com’s own Dave Ouano made the night of stars perfect!

And The Award Goes To:
Enjoying the night with my pals Chicago Male Salon owner, Scott (See Picture) & Pie Hole Pizza owner, Doug made for quite the boisterous time. I felt like I was back in high school! Community award winning Pie Hole Pizza supplied some yummy pizza for the event too! I was a good boy and only had one small piece. Pizza is my drug!

With joy in my heart I was introduced on the stage to present an award to my first Chicago Gay bar Roscoe’s. Hostess Frida Lay accepted on their behalf.

Coming Up:
This weekend is sure to be a fun one! Of course there are a billion Events going on, but I want to make sure you know about one of them off hand. Friday, ChicagoPride.com and Minibar|Winebar are hosting an Evening With Jim Verraros. I hope you can all join me in the fun! As always, you can get more Information about it at ChicagoPride.com

SHOUT OUTS:
I would like to dedicate today’s shout out’s to the whole team at ChicagoPride.com! They seriously make the Chicago community look damn good!

Cheers Damn It!
~Bill

Add Your Comment Below!