Friday, November 16, 2012
Thursday, November 15, 2012
Toys for Tots: Coming to Club Krave
U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program
MISSION:
The mission of the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program is to collect new, unwrapped toys during October, November and December each year, and distribute those toys as Christmas gifts to needy children in the community in which the campaign is conducted.
GOAL:
The primary goal of Toys for Tots is to deliver, through a shiny new toy at Christmas, a message of hope to needy youngsters that will motivate them to grow into responsible, productive, patriotic citizens and community leaders.
OBJECTIVES:
The objectives of Toys for Tots are to help needy children throughout the United States experience the joy of Christmas; to play an active role in the development of one of our nation's most valuable natural resources - our children; to unite all members of local communities in a common cause for three months each year during the annual toy collection and distribution campaign; and to contribute to better communities in the future.
ACTIVITIES:
The principal Toys for Tots activities which take place each year are the collection and distribution of toys in the communities in which a Marine Corps Reserve Unit is located and in communities without a Reserve Unit that has a Marine Corps League Detachment or group of men and women, generally veteran Marines, authorized by Marine Toys for Tots Foundation to conduct a local Toys for Tots campaign. Local Toys for Tots Campaign Coordinators conduct an array of activities throughout the year, which include golf tournaments, foot races, bicycle races and other purely voluntary events designed to increase interest in Toys for Tots, and concurrently generate toy and monetary donations.
GOVERNANCE: Marine Toys for Tots Foundation is governed by a board of eleven directors, all of whom are successful business leaders from throughout the nation. All directors served as U.S. Marines. The Foundation's professional staff is located in an office suite in the Marine Corps Association building aboard Marine Corps Base, Quantico, Virginia, about 35 miles south of Washington, DC.
PRODUCTIVITY: From 1991 - 2005, the Foundation supplemented local toy collections with 64.5 million toys valued at $344 million. Concurrently, the Foundation provided over $3.9 million worth of promotion and support materials, which enable local Toys for Tots coordinators to conduct more effective local campaigns.
MISSION: The mission of Marine Toys for Tots Foundation is to raise funds to provide toys to supplement the collections of local Toys for Tots coordinators; defray the costs of conducting annual Toys for Tots campaigns; provide administrative, advisory, financial, logistic and promotional support of local coordinators; provide other support that the Marine Corps, as a federal agency, cannot provide; and conduct public education and information programs, which call the general public to action in support of Toys for Tots.
GOAL: The primary goal of the Foundation is the same as that of the overall Toys for Tots program: i.e. - to deliver, through a shiny new toy at Christmas, a message of hope to needy youngsters that will motivate them to grow into responsible, productive, patriotic citizens and community leaders.
OBJECTIVES: The objectives of the Foundation are the same as those of the overall Toys for Tots program: i.e. - to help needy children throughout the United States experience the joy of Christmas; to play an active role in the development of one of our nation's most valuable natural resources - our children; to unite all members of local communities in a common cause for three months each year during the annual toy collection and distribution campaign; and to contribute to improving communities in the future.
ACTIVITIES: The Foundation engages in two categories of activities: Program Services and Support Services.
Program Services
Toy Distribution: This is the process of obtaining and delivering toys to local Toys for Tots coordinators and providing the support and assistance those coordinators need to conduct effective toy collection and distribution campaigns in their communities. Toys are a combination of those purchased by the Foundation and those donated by corporations.
Support of local coordinators: This involves arranging the creation, publication, manufacture and delivery of an array of promotion and support materials to local Toys for Tots coordinators. It includes managing all financial matters for local coordinators as well as updating and publishing a manual for the conduct of local programs. Concisely stated, this activity encompasses providing a wide range of support to approximately 550 local Toys for Tots coordinators and their support groups. Today, there are nearly 20,000 Marines, Marine Corps League members, veteran Marines and volunteers involved in annual campaigns.
Education: The Foundation conducts an annual public information and education campaign. This activity is designed to give the general public a clear understanding of the benefits that accrue to individuals, communities and the nation from Toys for Tots. It increases visibility and name recognition and stimulates the general public to action in support of Toys for Tots. The campaign includes distributing a series of news releases, distributing TV and radio public service announcements, publishing newsletters, arranging media events and appearances, arranging for national corporations to incorporate information about Toys for Tots into their paid advertisements, conducting special events, maintaining a website and distributing educational material about Toys for Tots to the general public
MISSION: The mission of the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program is to collect new, unwrapped toys during October, November and December each year, and distribute those toys as Christmas gifts to needy children in the community in which the campaign is conducted.
GOAL:
The primary goal of Toys for Tots is to deliver, through a shiny new toy at Christmas, a message of hope to needy youngsters that will motivate them to grow into responsible, productive, patriotic citizens and community leaders.
OBJECTIVES:
The objectives of Toys for Tots are to help needy children throughout the United States experience the joy of Christmas; to play an active role in the development of one of our nation's most valuable natural resources - our children; to unite all members of local communities in a common cause for three months each year during the annual toy collection and distribution campaign; and to contribute to better communities in the future.
ACTIVITIES:
The principal Toys for Tots activities which take place each year are the collection and distribution of toys in the communities in which a Marine Corps Reserve Unit is located and in communities without a Reserve Unit that has a Marine Corps League Detachment or group of men and women, generally veteran Marines, authorized by Marine Toys for Tots Foundation to conduct a local Toys for Tots campaign. Local Toys for Tots Campaign Coordinators conduct an array of activities throughout the year, which include golf tournaments, foot races, bicycle races and other purely voluntary events designed to increase interest in Toys for Tots, and concurrently generate toy and monetary donations.
Marine Toys for Tots Foundation
OVERVIEW:
Marine Toys for Tots Foundation, an IRS recognized 501(C)(3)
not-for-profit public charity is the fund raising, funding and support
organization for the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program.
The Foundation was created at the behest of the U.S. Marine Corps and
provides support in accordance with a Memorandum of Understanding with
the Commander, Marine Forces Reserve, who directs the U.S. Marine
Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program. The Foundation has supported Toys
for Tots since 1991.GOVERNANCE: Marine Toys for Tots Foundation is governed by a board of eleven directors, all of whom are successful business leaders from throughout the nation. All directors served as U.S. Marines. The Foundation's professional staff is located in an office suite in the Marine Corps Association building aboard Marine Corps Base, Quantico, Virginia, about 35 miles south of Washington, DC.
PRODUCTIVITY: From 1991 - 2005, the Foundation supplemented local toy collections with 64.5 million toys valued at $344 million. Concurrently, the Foundation provided over $3.9 million worth of promotion and support materials, which enable local Toys for Tots coordinators to conduct more effective local campaigns.
MISSION: The mission of Marine Toys for Tots Foundation is to raise funds to provide toys to supplement the collections of local Toys for Tots coordinators; defray the costs of conducting annual Toys for Tots campaigns; provide administrative, advisory, financial, logistic and promotional support of local coordinators; provide other support that the Marine Corps, as a federal agency, cannot provide; and conduct public education and information programs, which call the general public to action in support of Toys for Tots.
GOAL: The primary goal of the Foundation is the same as that of the overall Toys for Tots program: i.e. - to deliver, through a shiny new toy at Christmas, a message of hope to needy youngsters that will motivate them to grow into responsible, productive, patriotic citizens and community leaders.
OBJECTIVES: The objectives of the Foundation are the same as those of the overall Toys for Tots program: i.e. - to help needy children throughout the United States experience the joy of Christmas; to play an active role in the development of one of our nation's most valuable natural resources - our children; to unite all members of local communities in a common cause for three months each year during the annual toy collection and distribution campaign; and to contribute to improving communities in the future.
ACTIVITIES: The Foundation engages in two categories of activities: Program Services and Support Services.
Program Services
Toy Distribution: This is the process of obtaining and delivering toys to local Toys for Tots coordinators and providing the support and assistance those coordinators need to conduct effective toy collection and distribution campaigns in their communities. Toys are a combination of those purchased by the Foundation and those donated by corporations.
Support of local coordinators: This involves arranging the creation, publication, manufacture and delivery of an array of promotion and support materials to local Toys for Tots coordinators. It includes managing all financial matters for local coordinators as well as updating and publishing a manual for the conduct of local programs. Concisely stated, this activity encompasses providing a wide range of support to approximately 550 local Toys for Tots coordinators and their support groups. Today, there are nearly 20,000 Marines, Marine Corps League members, veteran Marines and volunteers involved in annual campaigns.
Education: The Foundation conducts an annual public information and education campaign. This activity is designed to give the general public a clear understanding of the benefits that accrue to individuals, communities and the nation from Toys for Tots. It increases visibility and name recognition and stimulates the general public to action in support of Toys for Tots. The campaign includes distributing a series of news releases, distributing TV and radio public service announcements, publishing newsletters, arranging media events and appearances, arranging for national corporations to incorporate information about Toys for Tots into their paid advertisements, conducting special events, maintaining a website and distributing educational material about Toys for Tots to the general public
Thursday, September 13, 2012
Wednesday, September 5, 2012
Gay rights in spotlight at Democratic convention
CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- North Carolina, one of the top battleground states of
the 2012 election, in May passed an amendment banning same-sex marriage
by an overwhelming margin, 61 percent to 39 percent.
Last night in North Carolina's largest city, the Democratic Party spotlighted their support for gay rights - including same-sex marriage - in speech after speech.
The keynote speaker, Julian Castro, criticized Mitt Romney for opposing "letting people marry whomever they love." First Lady Michelle Obama, also speaking in the primetime slot, lauded her husband for backing equal opportunity for people no matter their sexual orientation. She spoke admirably of "proud Americans" who "boldly stand at the altar with who they love."
Deval Patrick, the Massachusetts governor, pointed to passage of same-sex marriage in his state, adding that "freedom means keeping government out of our most private affairs...including out of a woman's decision whether to keep an unwanted pregnancy and everybody's decision about whom to marry." He celebrated the president for ending the military's "don't ask, don't tell" policy, "so that love of country, not love of another, determines fitness for military service."
Chicago mayor Rahm Emanuel cast voters' choice as one between a supporter of "don't ask, don't tell" and "a president who believes that who you love should not keep you from serving the country you love." Newark mayor Cory Booker said Americans should have the chance to find a good job no matter "who you choose to love." Rep. Gwen Moore said Democrats stand strong against violence "whether you love a man or a woman." Mr. Obama's half-sister, Maya Soetoro-ng, said the president "fought to make sure gay Americans can openly serve the country they love." Comedian Kal Penn joked that the president has been "cool with all of us getting gay-married."
For the past few decades, it has largely been Republicans, not Democrats, who have used social issues to rally their base. The only social issue that Democrats have truly embraced in the past has been abortion rights - and that has certainly continued this year, with Democrats discussing abortion rights repeatedly on Tuesday. But at this convention, for the first time, they are widely embracing gay rights - both President Obama and the Democratic platform support same-sex marriage, more than eight percent of the delegates are openly gay, and the party is featuring gay rights activists like Rep. Jared Polis of Colorado, who is gay, and Zach Wahls, who was born to a lesbian couple in 1991.
"I was struck, for sure, by the very full-throated endorsements of marriage that we saw from those speaking," said Wahls, who is scheduled to speak Thursday. He said he has been heartened that "we now have a major American party endorsing marriage equality" after decades in which gay Americans were criticized or ignored by the major parties, particularly the GOP.
Gay rights were little discussed at last week's Republican National Convention in Tampa, and there were no openly gay speakers. Mitt Romney supports a Constitutional amendment banning same-sex marriage, though he rarely talks about it, and the writers of the party platform declined to back civil unions.
For many of those who support gay rights, all that nonetheless marks progress for a party that in 1992 showcased Pat Buchanan railing against "the amoral idea that gay and lesbian couples should have the same standing in law as married men and women."
Polls have shown support for same-sex marriage growing at a rapid pace over the past decade, though the country remains relatively split. For young voters, however, support for same-sex marriage is widespread. Democrats appear to have concluded that showcasing their support for gay rights is worth it, even at the risk of a backlash from social conservatives.
"I think there could be a little bit of a backlash, but my hunch is that at the end of the day this election is going to be about the economy," said American University professor of government Jennifer Lawless. "And I think that by talking about these issues, Barack Obama is making a connection with people in his base, and I think that's important. The people who are very socially conservative and would vote on those issues aren't likely to vote for him anyway."
Asked why Democrats have showcased gay rights at the convention, Democratic strategist Mark Mellman cited three reasons.
"One, because you believe in it, and not everything is political calculation, some things are actually matters of principle," he said. "Two, part of what you saw was an effort to energize the base. And the gay community is part of the base, and energizing them is important and useful. And third, this is an issue in which opinion is changing fast. And what was true last November may not be true this November. In fact, it's probably not."
Courtesy of ABC NEws
Last night in North Carolina's largest city, the Democratic Party spotlighted their support for gay rights - including same-sex marriage - in speech after speech.
The keynote speaker, Julian Castro, criticized Mitt Romney for opposing "letting people marry whomever they love." First Lady Michelle Obama, also speaking in the primetime slot, lauded her husband for backing equal opportunity for people no matter their sexual orientation. She spoke admirably of "proud Americans" who "boldly stand at the altar with who they love."
Deval Patrick, the Massachusetts governor, pointed to passage of same-sex marriage in his state, adding that "freedom means keeping government out of our most private affairs...including out of a woman's decision whether to keep an unwanted pregnancy and everybody's decision about whom to marry." He celebrated the president for ending the military's "don't ask, don't tell" policy, "so that love of country, not love of another, determines fitness for military service."
Chicago mayor Rahm Emanuel cast voters' choice as one between a supporter of "don't ask, don't tell" and "a president who believes that who you love should not keep you from serving the country you love." Newark mayor Cory Booker said Americans should have the chance to find a good job no matter "who you choose to love." Rep. Gwen Moore said Democrats stand strong against violence "whether you love a man or a woman." Mr. Obama's half-sister, Maya Soetoro-ng, said the president "fought to make sure gay Americans can openly serve the country they love." Comedian Kal Penn joked that the president has been "cool with all of us getting gay-married."
For the past few decades, it has largely been Republicans, not Democrats, who have used social issues to rally their base. The only social issue that Democrats have truly embraced in the past has been abortion rights - and that has certainly continued this year, with Democrats discussing abortion rights repeatedly on Tuesday. But at this convention, for the first time, they are widely embracing gay rights - both President Obama and the Democratic platform support same-sex marriage, more than eight percent of the delegates are openly gay, and the party is featuring gay rights activists like Rep. Jared Polis of Colorado, who is gay, and Zach Wahls, who was born to a lesbian couple in 1991.
"I was struck, for sure, by the very full-throated endorsements of marriage that we saw from those speaking," said Wahls, who is scheduled to speak Thursday. He said he has been heartened that "we now have a major American party endorsing marriage equality" after decades in which gay Americans were criticized or ignored by the major parties, particularly the GOP.
Gay rights were little discussed at last week's Republican National Convention in Tampa, and there were no openly gay speakers. Mitt Romney supports a Constitutional amendment banning same-sex marriage, though he rarely talks about it, and the writers of the party platform declined to back civil unions.
For many of those who support gay rights, all that nonetheless marks progress for a party that in 1992 showcased Pat Buchanan railing against "the amoral idea that gay and lesbian couples should have the same standing in law as married men and women."
Polls have shown support for same-sex marriage growing at a rapid pace over the past decade, though the country remains relatively split. For young voters, however, support for same-sex marriage is widespread. Democrats appear to have concluded that showcasing their support for gay rights is worth it, even at the risk of a backlash from social conservatives.
"I think there could be a little bit of a backlash, but my hunch is that at the end of the day this election is going to be about the economy," said American University professor of government Jennifer Lawless. "And I think that by talking about these issues, Barack Obama is making a connection with people in his base, and I think that's important. The people who are very socially conservative and would vote on those issues aren't likely to vote for him anyway."
Asked why Democrats have showcased gay rights at the convention, Democratic strategist Mark Mellman cited three reasons.
"One, because you believe in it, and not everything is political calculation, some things are actually matters of principle," he said. "Two, part of what you saw was an effort to energize the base. And the gay community is part of the base, and energizing them is important and useful. And third, this is an issue in which opinion is changing fast. And what was true last November may not be true this November. In fact, it's probably not."
Courtesy of ABC NEws
Tuesday, August 28, 2012
Saturday, August 25, 2012
Bud Boyz Madness: Anthony Jay and Tristan Hayden
The place gets into a heatwave of hormones flowing through out the bar when they come to perform. Their dance moves, their smiles, and their politeness is what our guests love about them most.
We want to thank Maria and Sarabia for letting us have them when we want them and we appreciate them taking their time to come out and perform for us.
From all of us at Krave, we say thanks and we love you guys! Kisses!
~Johnny and Jason
Club Krave Owners
Friday, August 24, 2012
The Illinois Gay Rodeo Association
Friday, August 10, 2012
Krave is the place to be every day of the week
No matter what day of the week it is, there is always something going on at Krave! There is wet boxer and T-Shirt contests, beer pong tournies, DJ/VJ's, hot male and female dancers, birthday parties, raffles and prizes and a lot more. You can always find out what is going on at www.clubkrave.com, on facebook www.facebook.com/clubkrave or just give us a call at 708-597-8379. If you want to book entertainment to be held at the bar, call 708-634-2189.
Club Krave also has the best entertainment in the Chicago drag circuit! The drag shows have been called SPECTACULAR, AMAZING, WELL PUT TOGETHER AND ENTERTAINING. All drag shows are booked and put together by Miss Lindsey Devereaux, who has been a resident for over 10 years. Lindsey has taken her troupe out to other venues such as 115 Bourbon St in Merrionette Park, Il. Her shows, named, The Queens of Mardi Gras, have brought in the biggest crowd for any drag show in the Chicago Land area. With a crowd of more than 5,000 people coming through the doors during the last 4 shows there, Lindsey and her girls have been signed to do shows twice a year, once during Mardis Gras Weekend, and the other during Bourbon Street's Anniversary, indefinitely . One during Mardi Gras weekend which brings in more than 1000 people, and then for Bourbon Streets anniversary party which brings in close to the same amount. When she and her girls perform, reservations go fast and there is usually only standing room only! The Queens of Mardi Gras Show this year was Hosted by the one and only Velecity Metropolis, which is a Chicago Land Favorite!! Above is just a taste of what the shows are like....
Club Krave also has the best entertainment in the Chicago drag circuit! The drag shows have been called SPECTACULAR, AMAZING, WELL PUT TOGETHER AND ENTERTAINING. All drag shows are booked and put together by Miss Lindsey Devereaux, who has been a resident for over 10 years. Lindsey has taken her troupe out to other venues such as 115 Bourbon St in Merrionette Park, Il. Her shows, named, The Queens of Mardi Gras, have brought in the biggest crowd for any drag show in the Chicago Land area. With a crowd of more than 5,000 people coming through the doors during the last 4 shows there, Lindsey and her girls have been signed to do shows twice a year, once during Mardis Gras Weekend, and the other during Bourbon Street's Anniversary, indefinitely . One during Mardi Gras weekend which brings in more than 1000 people, and then for Bourbon Streets anniversary party which brings in close to the same amount. When she and her girls perform, reservations go fast and there is usually only standing room only! The Queens of Mardi Gras Show this year was Hosted by the one and only Velecity Metropolis, which is a Chicago Land Favorite!! Above is just a taste of what the shows are like....
Blaze @Club Krave
Check Blaze out on Twitter under Blaze Sandvoss.
Friday, June 22, 2012
Tuesday, June 12, 2012
BRIAN WELLS BAR TENDER @ CLUB KRAVE
Chicago land
native, Brian Wells, began his bartending career at the young age of twenty. He
was a barback at one of the area's trendiest nightclubs. Shortly after turning twenty-one, Brian
learned the skill of tending bar and there was no looking back.
In 2010, Brian helped start a non-profit
organization that helped to benefit LGBT Veterans of the US Armed Forces. The
organization focused on helping LGBT veterans, who were wrongfully discharged,
collect the Military benefits they were owed. The non-profit also fought for
the repeal of the “Don’t ask, don’t tell” policy. The organization found great
success after holding several, high profile events to raise money for the
cause.
After living in the Boystown
neighborhood of Chicago for four years and attending Harrington College of
Design, Brian began consulting on the design of several bars, nightclubs, and
restaurants in Indiana, Chicago, Las Vegas, and Florida.
Brian’s love for the business,
and skill behind the bar, has set the
pace for a successful career in the service industry. After several years of bar tending and managing in some of the area’s premier nightclubs and bars, he
found a home at Club Krave in March of 2011. With high hopes of owning a bar of
his own one day, “last call” for Brian doesn’t seem to be coming anytime soon.
Monday, June 4, 2012
Sunday, June 3, 2012
Resident DJ Kyle R
Born and raised in the cornfields of Coal City Illinois, DJ Kyle R has always seen bigger and better things for himself. Throughout his childhood, music was always a part of his life. Since the age of 6 hes had a passion for music listening to the newest and hottest songs of the time. At the age of 18, DJ Kyle R went to college for hospitality management & started spinning at various parties. After years in corporate America, DJ Kyle R decided that it was time to follow his dreams and become a DJ. At the time DJ Kyle R worked at empress casino in Joliet Illinois and saw there was a DJ opening in Zanzibar Nightclub. After trying out on his first night his music was an instant hit. Besides opening the door to many of the connections to the music industry, his position also gave him access to the newest dj equipment around, giving him the ability to fine tune his amazing skills. After working at Zanzibar nightclub for 2 years DJ Kyle R was offered a resident dj position at Republic nightclub in Chicago after spinning at an open deck night. after working there for 2 years DJ kyle R then put his DJing career to rest for a while after accepting a hotel management job in Bradley Illinois. During that time he discovered his current home Club Krave. DJ Kyle R has called Club Krave his home since January 2010. DJ Kyle R is well known for being able to create dance floor energy and an \'upbeat party atmosphere\' wherever he plays. Spinning a mixture of Techno, Dance, Electro and Progressive House music & Top 40 Remixes, his style has been described as \'hot, high energy, and big sound.\'
The dance floor is an escape from reality but you can only go as far as the music takes you.
DJ KYLE R
Thursday, May 31, 2012
Club Krave's Party Bus To The Chicago Gay Pride Parade!!
Saturday, June 2nd Amateur Stip Contest
Drink specials for the night will be $12.00 over sized mixed drink pitchers, plus $3 long or blue island iced teas and $12.00 domestic buckets of beer. DJ Kyle R all night.
Friday, June 1st Hot, Sexy, Wet, Dancers!!
Hot
and Sexy featured dancer night!!! DJ Kyle R burnin down the house with
the hottest music on the south side!!! Eric and Brian behind the bar
with 10$ domestic and 16$ import bucket specials. 1$ off all vodka
cocktails. Shot Boy Brian will be serving up the shots all night! And
our sexy bar back Ryan struttin his stuff around the bar!
Tuesday, May 22, 2012
Monday, May 14, 2012
Ms Theresa Dawn: Club Krave's Ms Club Krave 2010-2011
Theresa Dawn has emerged as one of the most versatile, Drag Queen,
Television and Comedy personalities! While she is well-known in the Chicago area hotspots, she has taken the art of Female
Impersonation from Gay nightclubs to true TV. Theresa Dawn is known for
her role in "Limo Bob", which can be seen on True TV. As an MC
and hostess and a DJ she adds both panache and humor. In Chicago, Theresa Dawn is always pushing boundaries and striving to
make Gender Impersonation and alternative gender expression a more accepted and
appreciated form of art and way of being!
Born as Terry Romo in
1/11/1974 Terry comes from a very small town called Walker Mo. Theresa eventually found her way to the
windy city Of Chicago to become a sweet blossom in the Chicago social and
nightlife swirl. Theresa started doing drag at Halloween and then
at Pride Parades and events. She became Miss Queen Of Hearts 2006/2007 and Miss
Crew Queen Royal 2007. She then moved to the burbs of Chicago where she
stared doing shows at Club Krave. She went on to be Miss Club Krave 2010/2011
and you can see her Dj There every Wednesday.
Your Friday night Bartender ...Eric
Saturday, May 12, 2012
Jerome....does it surprise you?
I been with krave since the start. I like finger painting and juice. My favorite thing to do is drink beer and annoy Jim Scott. Every once in a while I like to put on panties and dance like a girl. I don't have hobbies. Unless you consider eating mass amounts of food and putting air in glasses. I love betty white. I hate people who whistle. My favorite beer is coors light. Goodbye.
Friday, May 11, 2012
Featured Club Krave Dancer: Anthony Jay
Originally from Chesterland, Ohio, a conservative town twenty miles east of Cleveland, I was raised Catholic, and as often happens in a family of these beliefs, my parents had a difficult time dealing with my sexuality. As luck would have it, my two older brothers are also gay, so the typical emotions that come with having a gay son were in fact tripled, and all the more trying.
I made the decision to come
out the summer before entering high school. When I told my mom, her
response was, “You need to fight this!” as if the feelings I had, and
homosexuality itself, were a disease. At the time, she had no idea what
being gay truly meant, and to her defense, I don't blame her, since I
didn’t really know either. My mom was brought up in a strict Italian
Catholic family, where homosexuality was never a topic of conversation.
In fact, until 1973 the DSM referred to homosexuality as a mental
illness. So, I figured that her opposing beliefs were influenced by
generational differences. Fortunately, my dad is a bit more liberal, and
has a great sense of humor. In which case he seemed to be more
understanding. I believe he knew and had already accepted it, even
before I did.One would fathom that the support from two older brothers would be conducive to an easier adjustment through my teenage years. However, at a mere fifteen years of age, I was the first brother to disclose this information to my parents. My oldest brother moved out of the house after high school, and came out shortly after. As a benefit, he was spared the need for any in-depth conversations about it with my parents. My other brother, contrary to stereotypical beliefs, devoted his time in high school to football, wrestling, and a steady relationship with his girlfriend. Later on he left for college, and as the high school pressures of conformity began to dissipate, he realized that he no longer needed to keep a secret.
Throughout high school, I withstood many hardships that tested my resiliency and strength. I presume many high school students experience this, but I believe that when you are gay, it is escalated beyond what most teenagers experience. I was a “momma’s boy” as a child, and I depended on that type of relationship, even after it was no longer cool. After coming out, there were times when my mom and I would go days without talking to each other. Both being stubborn Italians, the silences grew and if we did talk, it would end in a tumultuous debate about our conflicting beliefs.
Around the same time, some very serious health issues came up. I started having sharp pains in my back, and then I noticed blood in my urine. Medical examinations led doctors to believe that a tumor had developed in my left kidney. So at sixteen, I went under the knife, hence the scar across my stomach. It was an 8-hour surgery and a near-death experience. But at the time, the whole gay issue was put on the back burner. I was in recovery at the hospital for seven days and my mom stayed by my bedside the whole time, day and night. I‘ll never forget that.
Luckily, after the surgery, the doctors determined that it was a benign tumor, and I have been in good health ever since. This experience did prove to be somewhat advantageous, in the sense that it mended the combative relationship between my mom and I. I became more appreciative of family and friends. I felt compelled to empathize, listen, and share amongst others, in response to how fortunate I was to get a second chance.
In the midst of all this, I managed to maintain academic success in high school, and I took responsibility in forming our school’s first GSA (Gay Straight Alliance Student Organization). I planned and lead after-school meetings, once a week, for LGBTQ students and allies. Prior to the first meeting, I remember being under a lot of pressure. Groups of oppositional students threatened to cause a riot. This caused the other leaders of the GSA to back out, and so, the position of leader fell into my hands. Luckily, the hostility expressed by the students gradually began to subside, and the GSA proceeded to accrue in popularity and support from students, faculty, and parents. The GSA meetings served as a safe place for LGBTQ and allies to socialize, as well as advocate for safety and equality in school. Predominantly, my interest in helping youth succeed in school began as a result of this experience.
After graduating high school, I went on to attend college at Kent State University, where I obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology. I embraced my new freedom and independence, but quickly learned that with college came the enormous expense. As a full-time student, time management was particularly difficult as well. Over the weekends, I began dancing at various clubs/bars around Cleveland and Akron, in order to make ends meet.
Personally, I tend to be more of a dork. I come off as socially awkward and introverted at times. I am sometimes a little shy. But as a dancer, I was coerced into becoming more socially extraverted. It was more effective in getting the audience to attend to me. I became a very confident exhibitionist who enjoyed soaking up the spotlight, while being the center of attention. I found that dancing was very similar to certain aspects of theatre and acting. The performance involved the ability to express sexuality and desire through physical form and movement, and it is quite therapeutic as well. As a result to this newly found confidence in myself, I became more competent in my social interactions with people in other settings.
After graduating college, I decided that before I committed to graduate school, I wanted to gain work experience in the field of psychology, particularly in work that involved children with special needs. Additionally, I deemed it imperative to escape the confinements of a mundane rural life in Ohio. So, through subliminal planning, I gathered some things, packed up my car, and drove to New York City. I had imagined it would be challenging to adjust to the Big Apple, but after staying there for just a week, I determined that it wasn't the right fit for me. In fact, most of my time in NYC consisted of viewing excessively-priced, cockroach infested studios, feeling pressed for time even when I had no obligation to be anywhere, downing countless cups of Starbucks coffee in order to feel adequate, and almost losing my vegetarianism to a foreign street vendor. If I were to live there, I know I would be compelled to conform to the New Yorker’s busy, fast-paced mentality. Consequently, this compelled me to give up and drive back to Ohio.
My spirits were down after the NYC fiasco, but I immediately started forming an alternative plan. I stayed home, in Ohio, for only a few days before I built up enough courage to hit the road again, this time heading toward Chicago. I arrived at night, and as I drove down Lakeshore for the first time, I felt an overwhelming sense of joy. Similar to that feeling you get as a kid, upon arriving up to an amusement park. The view of the city juxtaposing the lakefront had me in complete awe. At one point, I remember swerving in and out of lanes, as my attention shifted toward the skyline. I drove past a few late night joggers on the Lake Shore path, and hoped that that would be me someday soon.
It was my second night in Chicago, and my first time in Boystown. Anxious to see what it was like, I walked down North Halsted like a wide-eyed kid in a candy store. I went into Spin and was offered a job as a bar back. The next day I was interviewed for a position as a teaching assistant, at a private school for children with autism. I was hired on the spot, and I began training that day. I didn't know whether it was destiny or just beginner's luck, but everything seemed to fall into place.
On the weekends, I began working for a dance company that handled the bookings for me at different bars and clubs around Chicago, such as C.ockTail, @tmosphere, Hunter’s and Club Krave. This past summer, I signed up for a model search competition to become the next Bud Boy, and I won by receiving the most online votes. As a result, I was paid to appear at different venues and promote Budweiser products. The prize for winning consisted of a free all-inclusive trip for two at a resort in Cancun, Mexico. So, during the the first week in December I treated my mom to three relaxing days of bottomless margaritas on the beach, and many mother-son bonding moments.
I love living near Boystown. It’s great to have access to a neighborhood of bars, restaurants, and shops where I feel free to be myself. The first time my parents came to visit, I took them out to dinner at Kit Kat Lounge. They ended up loving the food and entertainment. Over dinner my mom said, “I wanted to tell the drag queen she smelled really good, but she was too busy singing.” I absolutely adore my mom, and it’s amazing to see how far she has come over the years. I realize that you can’t force your parents to change their beliefs, but they must learn through their own experiences and you can help guide them along the way. I am fortunate that my relationship with both of my parents continues to grow stronger. They have even accepted the fact that I dance, and they are totally fine with it, which is pretty awesome.
It has been over a year since I arrived here, and I am so glad that I did. This past year has been an amazing experience, especially with my job as a teacher's assistant at a school for children with autism. I considered it to be more fun than it was a job, and it reinforced my passion to want to work with special needs children in school. I have finally found my niche. Recently, I started graduate school to become a School Psychologist and make a career out of helping youth succeed academically. Living here has provided many opportunities for me. And I look forward to putting in my time here so that I can one day call Chicago my home.
Friday, May 4, 2012
Howard Brown exists to eliminate the disparities in health care experienced by lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgendered people through research, education and the provision of services that promote health and wellness.
Howard Brown is the Midwest’s premier lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) health care organization, and leads the region in addressing the comprehensive health care needs of people in the LGBT community. Our multi-site operation includes a main health center in Uptown, Triad Health practice at Illinois Masonic Hospital, the Broadway Youth Center, and four Brown Elephant Resale Shops in Chicago and Oak Park. Howard Brown provides an expansive network of programs and services, accomplished with a diverse and qualified staff of licensed doctors, nurses, health care practitioners, renowned research professionals, and prominent community leaders.
Founded in 1974 to provide testing and treatment of sexually transmitted diseases within the gay community, Howard Brown and a group of volunteers made an early and significant contribution by serving as a community-based research site for testing and approval of the Hepatitis B vaccine.
Howard Brown then responded to an entirely new challenge: HIV/AIDS. At the onset of the HIV epidemic in 1980, Howard Brown became the Midwest’s reliable source for HIV education with the area’s first information hotline. In 1982, Howard Brown was chosen by the National Institutes of Health to participate in the largest study of HIV and AIDS in the world. (More than 20 years later, the MACS study still continues at Howard Brown, and among other things, follows the general health and the longitudinal progression of HIV in its HIV-positive subjects.) Soon after, confidential HIV testing and prevention education were offered, and the first HIV case management and support services program was begun. In response to growing community needs, in 1991 our services expanded to include comprehensive HIV primary care, counseling, and psychotherapy for those living with HIV.
In addition to the extensive demands for the care and treatment of HIV and AIDS, Howard Brown recognized the community’s need for non-HIV services. When Howard Brown opened its new facility in October, 1997, services included general primary care, counseling, behavioral health, and case management for the LGBT community.
Howard Brown now administers a range of medical and behavioral health services, with sliding scale rates, to ensure that everyone in these underserved populations receives essential healthcare needs, in addition to ongoing research.
More than 30 years ago Howard
Brown was established on the premise that healthcare in the LGBT
community should be a readily accessible right, not a luxury
- that those who lack the privilege of adequate health coverage or
access to competent providers should be able to find care in a
confidential and supportive environment.
Today this mission inspires us to provide cutting-edge services to more than 20,000 clients each year. To ensure that we continue to serve those community members who need us most, we turn to you. Your dedication to furthering the mission of Howard Brown through a generous financial contribution will serve as an outstanding example of leadership in our community and will be put to immediate work:
Today this mission inspires us to provide cutting-edge services to more than 20,000 clients each year. To ensure that we continue to serve those community members who need us most, we turn to you. Your dedication to furthering the mission of Howard Brown through a generous financial contribution will serve as an outstanding example of leadership in our community and will be put to immediate work:
If you would prefer to make your gift by mail, please send your check, payable to Howard Brown Health Center, to:
Jeanne Newman
Development Manager
Howard Brown Health Center
3837 N. Broadway, 2nd floor
Chicago, IL 60613-2010.
Credit card donations can also be made by calling (773) 388-8998.
All contributions to Howard Brown Health Center are fully tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law.
Monday, April 23, 2012
Howard Brown Benefit Show
*GREAT cast of DRAG entertainers including:
Lindsey Devereaux, Tina Roberts, Tranny Mess, Shafilla Titsling, Rocker Hard, Kylie Kox, Serina DeVine, Theresa Dawn, & More!!!
*LIVE Performances by Ruhu & Malik!!!
*DJ and hosted by special guest DJ Brandi Wyne!!!
*AND MORE SURPRISES That you don't want to miss!!!
*Fabulous Drink Specials including $12 mixed drink pitchers, $3 Long Island Ice Tea...and in honor of the holiday...$3 Corona Bottles / $12 Corona Buckets!!!
Special thanks to Rich Misch, Jim Scott, & Jerome Bessieres for their help and donations for this night!!!
$4.00 Cover after 9:00 p.m. get's you a "drink coupon" towards your first drink!!! Markie & Brian behind the bar,slinging your drinks...what more can you ask for!!!
The New Club Krave Blog Spot
Well it's finally here, the New Club Krave Blog Spot. We decided to create this to let you know about Club Krave and what we are doing for the community, or something as simple as what's going on at the club. We want to be able to give you a place where you can go to read about the things that are happening right now, at this moment in our lives.
We will post pictures, and other things here for entertainment value also. We will also list anything that is going on that may be of interest to certain groups..
So sit back, relax, and bare with us, for this is all new to us and will grow as we go further in the Future.
Love you all,
Johnny and Jason
We will post pictures, and other things here for entertainment value also. We will also list anything that is going on that may be of interest to certain groups..
So sit back, relax, and bare with us, for this is all new to us and will grow as we go further in the Future.
Love you all,
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)