May 14 - 17, 2009

Everyday just keeps getting better doesn't it? The weather is perfect, all of that rain in April has been paying off with a glorious show of color all across the city. There's lots to keep you busy this weekend, Cattle Call - Andersonville's newest addition is opening on Friday night or you could catch Hedwig and the Angry Inch or even join in on the Andersonville Wine Walk. Get out there and have some fun!

THURSDAY, MAY 14

If you're downtown, check out the Farmers Markets at Daley Plaza and Sears Tower Plaza from 7AM-3PM. Go get your fresh veggies.

Have you ever wondered what the life of a nurse is like? Tonight at Women & Children First Sallie Tisdale, Judy Schaefer and others will read from their book A Call To Nursing: Nurses' Stories about Challenge and Commitment. Program starts at 7:30

New Town Writers will meet at the Gerber/Hart Library at 7:30 for their fortnightly meeting. Join in with Chicago's only LGBT Writers Salon where you can share your own writings and enjoy those of others.

Geber/Hart Library will host participants in this years 21st Annual Lambda Literary Awards who will read their submissions. 7PM, entry is FREE

If you're passing through Union Station today from 7AM-4PM be sure to look for the people promoting Downstate Illinois Tourism. There's lots to do and see outside of Chicago and it's a quick trip away. In fact some friends and I are planning a trip to Springfield on the 30th to go to the Lincoln Museum - if you'd like to join us, send me an email.

FRIDAY, MAY 15

Jenni Prokopy of ChronicBabe.com will emcee a conversation on the US health care system at Women & Children First at 7:30. Several of the authors of 'Are We Feeling Better Yet? Women Speak About Health Care in America' will read from their book.

When was the last time you went to a museum for a film? The Block Museum is Evanston is holding a special screening of Paul Verhoeven's 1987 classic RoboCop at 8PM. RoboCop? Seriously? Unfortunately it's the last program in their robot themed film series, but hey you can still catch RoboCop!

It's Festival Season! HOORAY! Chicago Mayfest kicks it off tonight at 3100 N Ashland at 5PM-10PM and Sat/Sun 11AM-10PM 16 Candles will be playing Saturday night at 8PM they were fantastic at Pridefest last year!

Head up to Andersonville and welcome the newest bar to open - Cattle Call @ 1547 W Bryn Mawr. They're opening their doors for the first time at 8PM! Stop by and check out this great new addition to the Chicago nightlife.

Don't miss the recently extended Hedwig and the Angry Inch at the American Theater Co. I've not seen it yet, but I hear it's tremendous!

Deaf Chicano Transman Dragonsani ("Drago") Renteria will present "The T in LGBT: A Personal Odyssey from Female to Male" at DePaul University Richardson Library, Rosati Room - 2350 N Kenmore Ave from 6-9PM Check out the full listing of events for DePaul's 2nd Annual LGBTQA Month

SATURDAY, MAY 16

The Modern Wing of the Art Institute of Chicago makes it's debut today. If you're a member you've probably already been there, which makes the rest of us jealous! I've heard the new space is phenomenal.

Join in a panel discussion about Gordon Parks at the Block Museum in Evanston. From 2-4PM this free event will host many of countries experts on African American Studies, photography and art and Mr. Parks influence on it.

It's time to plant the garden! Stop by the Kilborn Park - 3501 N Kilbourn for their annual Organic Plant Sale from 10AM-3PM, today and tomorrow only. They have vegetables, flowers and herbs with prices starting at $2

The 11th Annual Great Chicago Places & Spaces event takes over downtown today. Join in on tours through numerous buildings throughout the city. Check the site for full details including Advance Registration Tours and Event Day Tours.

It's 'Neck'd May' at the Heartland Cafe with Cake-Chicago starting at 9PM. $5 will get you some comedy and live music from Ripley Caine, Addictive Tragedy and others.

Chicago Gay Men's Chorus host The Big Package Auction at Sidetrack from 5-8PM. Tickets are $25 and include 3 drink tickets and snacks.

SUNDAY, MAY 17

It's 2nd Annual Andersonville Wine Walk from 2-5PM. Stop in at 22 neighborhood retail locations and taste more than 60 wines. Tickets are only $25 and includes a $5 coupon off food purchase. The fun starts at In Fine Spirits. Purchase tickets online so you don't have to wait in line.

So you think you're funny? Why not audition for the upcoming Just for Laughs Festival at the Lakeshore Theater then. Starts at 8PM and tickets are only $5.

Stop by Little Jim's from 4-7PM to support the "We Can Ride" AIDS Ride Team as they raise funds for this years ride.

International Day Against Homophobia (IDAHO) takes place today with a scheduled protest at President Obama's Hyde Park residence to highlight discrimination by governments abroad and their treatment of the LGBT community. 2PM meeting at 51st & Greenwood.

Head on over to The Spot for Diva Brunch as Scooty & JoJo host The Flaming Dames, ZaZa and Amy Dunlap. Two seatings at 11Am & 1PM, $35 includes unlimited mimosas and bellinis and your choice from their delightful brunch menu!

COMING SOON

MONDAY - CABARET NIGHT AT CENTER ON HALSTED

TUESDAY - REGISTRATION FOR 28TH PROUD TO RUN 5/10K @ SIDETRACK

WEDNESDAY - MEI-LING HOPGOOD @ WOMEN & CHILDREN

WEDNESDAY - LIVE FORUM: GENERATION YOU