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Benefit Season Winter weather seems easier to take as Chicago charity benefits kick into high gear. There’s something for everyone’s budget with events that range from galas that are black tie only to burlesque shows that feature dancers stripping down to “tie only”. For the next few issues we’ll be using this space to keep you apprised on some upcoming chairty events. If you don’t have the money to attend these events, you can still get in on the fun by volunteering Chicago House’s “Champagne Wrapture” offers high flying treats and bubbly drinks on Thursday, Jan. 26 on the 99th floor of The Willis Tower. Ticket prices are $99 or $130 for VIP tickets, for more information go to www.chicagohouse.org About Face Theatre, a Chicago based theatre company “(Ho)Motown” on Jan. 31 at Schuba’s to raise funds for the organization’s Youth Theatre. The evening will feature performances by some of Chicago’s most talented theater professionals. Equality Illinois’ gala, “Justice for All” on Saturday, Feb. 11 is one of the most elegant and fun LGBT events of the year. Ticket prices range from $300 for an individual ticket to $5,000 for a premium table for ten. To find out more, sign up to volunteer or purchase tickets, go to www.eqil.org. Chicago Spirit Brigade:’s “Toys in the Attic” event on Saturday, Jan. 28, at Circuit is CSB’s only fundraiser for operating expenses. It’ll take you back to youth with music, rousing dance numbers, fabulous drag and a toy surprise and will help the cheerleaders, dancers and drill team in raising money for other non-profit groups that provide support to people with lifethreatening challenges. Shows 7 and 9, doors open an hour before showtime. boi
ISSUE 01.12
HEALTH & FITNESS • HEALTHY DINING INTERVIEW WITH TOM CHIOLA
3700 N. Halsted St. #2S Chicago, IL 60613
773.975.0264
boieditorial@aol.com • boiads@aol.com Publisher Editor
Mike Macharello Rick Karlin
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Photographers Oliver Aguilar Steve Starr Eamonn Sexton George St. George Cover BOI: Michael Elder
Editorial Contributors Harry Taint Anita Taylor
Gregg Shapiro Ace Magyar
VIEW BOI ONLINE AT www.boimagazine.com
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GYMWEAR BOI’S BEST GYMS NAMASTE BRO HEALTHY DINING restaurant LISTINGS COVER STORY INTERVIEW WITH TOM CHIOLA in the know, on the go! ask ace bars and clubs directory
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Gymwear Work Out In Style by Anita Taylor
Those high school days where you stored your gym shorts and a t-shirt in your locker are gone. Now you want to look good when you work out, after all, you never know when Mr. Right (or Mr. Right Now) will be working on squats right next to you. Work out wear has come a long way from the jock strap, sweatpants and t-shirt days, but you still want the same things, support and comfort plus a little style. Check out these gymwear options. Doreanse athletic shirts and support briefs are a must for any men’s workout wardrobe! The super soft and stretchy fabric (45% Cotton, 45% Modal, 10% Lycra) breaths and fits comfortably against the skin. Care is a snap, simply machine wash on a gentle cycle and tumble dry with low heat, $20-$30. Docati’s leather athletic shoe offers a bit of style for the gym, $95. Available at Moda Boutique, 5140 N. Clark, 773.878.8088, or browse online at www. modaboutique.com.
Pan Am Originals’ ultimate gym bag is loaded with 2 compartments completely separate for wet and dry items. It features several clear plastic pockets so stowed objects are quick to find It comes with a water bottle holder and snapin key ring with logo medallion and ventilation portals. The rugged outer shell is embossed with the company’s retro logo on both sides, $199. Just because you’re an athlete doesn’t mean you want athlete’s foot. Protect your tootsies in the shower. Havaianas’ Brazil flip flops have a molded rubber upper with a Havaianas flag badge, a shock absorbing multitone striped mid-sole and a durable rubber out-sole for a steady step, $22. All available at Cram, 3329 N. Broadway, 773.477.1737, or go to www.cramchicago.com.
Egoist may be best known for its extensive underwear selection, but they also specialize in athletic wear brands that cannot be found at department stores and shopping malls. Such as; AussieBum, Cocksox and 2eros (Australia), Gigo and Unico The RufSkin line features a wide array (Colombia) or XTG (Spain). XTG of fitness and swim wear. Ristefsky Spirit swim swimming shorts feature Mache’s designed “Hot” is a 100% side pockets and one zip back cotton hoody with lined contrast draw- two pocket. in black and purple string and zipper, shown in navy/yellow, diagonalShown print, $35. 3706 N Halsted, $75. TEAMM8 Australia offers great 773.281.5137, or go to their website at fit and style in the Stride Short with www.egoistunderwear.com. contrast piping and a drawstring on the outside front. The mid-thigh length Anita Taylor is a celebrity stylist, fashion with a scallop side split allows full range writer, personal shopper and hash house of movement while two side pockets waitress. She attended Parsons New provide storage for your locker key and School, Radcliff and Mr. Lance’s College of work-out gloves, $52. Cosmetology. boi
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BOI s Best Gyms There’s no shortage of places to work up a sweat in Chicago. From bare bones basics to a lush spa-like atmosphere there’s something for everyone’s taste and budget. In our list of best bets, we’ve left off the massive chains, such as; Bally’s, Equinox, Chicago Athletic Clubs, Fitness Formula and X-Sport (except where there are only one or two Chicago-area outlets of the chain) and have limited our list to local places. See each facility’s web site for a listing of classes, equipment available and personal trainers.
BodyFit Athletic Club 4704 N. Broadway, 773.878.8822 www.bfac.net Cheetah Gym 5248 Clark, 773.728.7777 1934 W. North, 773.394.5900 5838 N. Broadway, 773.728.6600 www.cheetahgym.com
Chicago Fitness Center 3131 N. Lincoln, 773.549.8181 www.chicagofitnesscenter.com Downsize Fitness 220 N. Aberdeen 312.226.7493 www.Chicago@DownsizeFitness.com (Specializing in fitness training for overweight individuals) East Bank Club 500 N. Kingsbury, 312.527.5800 www.eastbankclub.com Edgewater Athletic & Swim Club 1040 W. Granville, 773.262.2455 www.edgewaterathletic.com Galter LifeCenter 5157 N. Francisco, 773.878.9936 www.galterlifecenter.org Know No Limits 5121 N. Clark, 773.334.4728 www.know-no-limits.com LA Boxing 3215 N. Broadway 773-248-5229 www.laboxing.com/wrigleyville/ Lakeshore Athletic Club 441 N. Lake Shore Dr., 312.644.4880 www.lakeshoreac.com Phenomenal Fitness 1468 S Michigan, 312.360.0303 www.phenomenalfitness.com Quads Gym 3727 N. Broadway, 773.404.7867 www.quadsgym.com World Gym 909 W. Montrose, 773.348.1212 100 S. Wacker, 312.357.9753 www.worldgymchicago.com
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Weights vs. Yoga Ask men which activity they think is most effective for toning and strengthening muscles, and most would say weight training. While working out at the gym, most men tend to only work the mirror muscles, the chest, biceps, abs and thighs. This can cause one side of your body to become stronger than the other, creating a muscular imbalance that can pull the spine out of its natural state of alignment. When was the last time you needed to press a weight off your chest, did a pull-up or curled anything up to your shoulders? That’s not how muscles are used in real life. Those exercises are designed to add bulk, but to little to aid in day to day life. Yoga and Pilates (Y/P) use poses that require all muscles to work together through a wider variety of angles. The end result is an increase in functional strength and flexibility. Most weight training exercises require you to do 6-12 repetitions each set. This only makes your muscles contract for between 24-48 seconds. In Y/P a pose may be held for a minute or longer, which can drastically improve muscular endurance. Y/P can actually help muscles prepare for muscle-building exercise. Lifting weights releases lactic acid, flushing out excess lactic acid reduces the chance of experiencing next-day muscle soreness and stiffness. Y/P does just that. By stretching muscles as it strengthens them, many yoga moves help flow more blood and oxygen into muscles, washing out excess lactic acid. With its emphasis on moving from the center of the body, Y/P develops core muscles and stretches them at the same time. Those core muscles which Y/P target so perfectly can help alleviate back problems and help develop 12 boi
a flat stomach. Two things that top the list of many a man’s health and fitness wish list. Taking even one Y/P class per week or doing a couple of pre-workout poses can have a “de-compacting” effect on the body and can prevent repetitive stress and other more serious injuries which result from weight-training. “Men often suffer from tightness particularly in the hips, hamstrings, and shoulders that can lead to injury or weakness,” says Baron Baptiste, yoga teacher and former assistant coach with the Philadelphia Eagles. Y/P also provide much-needed “symmetry relief” to such asymmetric endeavors as racquet sports and golf, which torque the spine in only one direction. Among the other benefits of regular Y/P practice are; lowering blood pressure, better circulation, slower pulse rate, lower respiratory rate, higher cardiovascular endurance and more efficient metabolism. It’s not just the physical changes that make Y/P such a beneficial program. Many benefits, from better sleep to more energy and strength, have been reported by regular practitioners of Y/P. Regular sessions of Y/P stimulates detoxification, improved posture, weight maintenance, mood elevation and reductions in stress, anxiety and depression. The stronger connection between mind and increased body awareness has been reported to improve sexuality through better control, more relaxation, and more self-confidence. Many report a increased concentration, better memory and a stronger sense of self-control, allowing them to kick unhealthy habits.
Types of Men’s Yoga There are many different types of yoga, although all of the styles are based on the same physical postures (called poses), each has a particular emphasis. Below is a quick guide to help you decide which style of men’s yoga is for you. Hatha - Vinyasa These are general terms that can encompass many of the physical types of yoga, but are probably going to be slow-paced and gentle and provide a good introduction to the basic yoga poses and structured breathing. Ashtanga - Power A fast-paced series of poses is performed, physically demanding because of the constant movement from one pose to the next. Iyengar This style is most concerned with bodily alignment and usually emphasizes holding poses over long periods versus moving quickly from one pose to the next and uses of props, such as yoga blankets, blocks and straps, in order to bring the body into alignment. Kundalini The emphasis in is on the breath in conjunction with physical movement and the teacher will often lead the class in call and response chanting. Bikram - ”Hot” Yoga Practiced in a 95 to 100 degree room, which allows for a loosening of tight muscles and profuse sweating, which is thought to be cleansing. The Bikram method is a set series of 26 poses, but not all hot classes make use of this series. Forrest Expect an intense workout with an emphasis on abdominal strengthening and deep breathing.
Class Acts Yoga and Pilates classes can be expensive if you choose a high-end studio, which often offer more oneon-one instruction by the yogi leader. Inexpensive and free classes are readily available if you are willing to give up some of the individualized instruction and posher surroundings. The following classes offer the entire range. POZ Yoga Test Positive Aware Network 5537 N. Broadway 773.989.9400 www.tpan.com free for people living with HIV/AIDS Bikram Yoga Andersonville 5715 N. Clark 773.907.0291 www.bikramyogaandersonville.com Nature Yoga Sanctuary 2021 W. Division 773.227.5720 www.natureyoga.com yoga for every body and every budget Truman College 1145 W. Wilson 773.907.4440, www.trconted@ccc.edu beginner/ intermediate yoga In addition, classes are offered by the Chicago Park District at the following locations. For times and days call or go to the Park District’s web site, www.chicagoparkdistrict.com North Side Berger Park 773.761.0376 Broadway Armory 312.742.7502 Gill Park 312.742.7802 Hamlin Park 312.742.7785 Holstein Park 773.539.2559 Loyola Park 312.742.7857 Margate Park 312.742.7522 Shiel Park 312.742.7826 Warren Park 773.262.6314 South Side Archer Park 312.747.6009 Hale Park 312.747.6168 Harrison Park 312.746.5491 Palmer Park 312.747.6576 boi 13
Healthy Dining Chicago may be known for great steaks, deep dish pizza and that all-American treat, the hot dog, but it also has a wide variety of healthy restaurants that serve everything from raw food to organic pizza. If part of your New Year’s resolution was to eat better (c’mon the month’s almost over and you didn’t even start yet) here is a list of some of the healthiest restaurants in town. Most are vegan or vegetarian friendly, but there are plenty of places for carnivores as well. And, remember, there are healthy choices on the menu, but it’s still up to you to make the right selections.
BGabs Goodies 6100 S Blackstone
773.251.3071 www.bgabsgoodies.com Raw soy-free vegan deli offers meals (and groceries) created with fresh, organic, local fruits, veggies, and veggie-based proteins.
include cooked foods (Karyn’s Cooked 738 N Wells 312.587.1050) and haute cuisine (Karyn’s Fresh Corner 1901 N Halsted 312.255.1590 and 832 Dewey, Evanston 847.328.4497) in addition to her original concept (Karyn’s On Green 130 S Green 312.226.6155).
Loving Hut 5812 N Broadway
773.275.8797 www.lovinghut.us/chicago Pan-Asian cuisine, part of International chain of vegan restaurants opened by followers of Ching Hai, an advocate for vegetarian living
Mana Food Bar 1742 W Division 773.342.1742 www.manafoodbar.com World cuisine with an eclectic menu consisting of ethnic inspired food. Native Foods www.nativefoods.com
The California-based chain of vegan restaurants offers vegan versions of 525 Dempster, Evanston classic fast food fare that is so good Green Zebra 847.328.6875 www.blindfaithcafe. even carnivores love it. Locations in com Chicago include; 1484 N Milwaukee 773.489.8480, One of the most established vegetarian restaurants in 1023 W Belmont 773.549.4904 and 218 S Clark the area and as a bonus, a lot of hot college students 312.332.6332. hang out there. Quesadilla La Reyna del Sur 2235 N Western Brother Tim’s 1711 E 87th 773.235.8807 No webpage, but find them on Facebook 773.375.4722 www.brothertimsvegetarian.com Offering lighter versions of traditional Mexican fare, After operating on the south side since the mid-70s, the juice bar offers a healthy alternative to those this larger location opened last summer. calorie laden margaritas.
Blind Faith Café
Chicago Diner 3411 N. Halsted 773.935.6696 www.veggiediner.com Meat free since 1983, serving vegetarian versions of comfort food with organic beers and wine, margaritas, vegan bakery, and desserts.
Delicious Café 3827 N Lincoln
773.477.9840 www.deliciousvegancafe.blogspot.com Coffee, tea, sandwiches, bagels, and pastries. Breakfast includes a terrific version English muffin egg breakfast sandwich. Green Zebra 1460 W Chicago, 312.243.7100 www.greenzebrachicago.com Haute cuisine so fine you won’t even realize that many of the options are meat-free.
Falafill 3202 N Broadway
773.525.0052 www.falafill.com Can fried food really be healthy? Yes, especially if the falafel are fried to order and are served nearly greaseless. Stay away from the fries (which aren’t as good anyway) and you’ll be fine.
Heartland Cafe 7000 N. Glenwood
773.465.8005 www.heartlandcafe.com Another oldie, but goodie. The old hippie hangout has progressed with the times and serves up delicious, healthy fare including beef alternatives such as buffalo.
Karyn’s www.karynraw.com
With four locations, Karyn Calabrese, the guru of raw foods has expanded her mini-empire to 14 boi
Raw 131 N Clinton
312.831.2729 www.chicagorawfood.com This take-out only raw food vendor in the Chicago French Market at Ogilvie Train Station makes organic raw vegan meals, drinks, and snacks, with a focus on nut-free foods. There is a café area in the French Market where you may sit to have your meal.
Soul Vegetarian/Eternity Juice Bar 205 E 75th 773.224.0104 www.soulvegetarianeast.com Soul food is comfort food, but it is not usually healthy. The vegetarian versions, while still a bit rich, still allow you to enjoy lasagna, mac and cheese, corn bread and desserts with a minimum of guilt. A killer brunch is served on Sunday. Soul Veg Express
312.857.4393 www.stemartaen.com/food.truck This food truck, operated by Ste. Martaen, a vegan foods manufacturer, brings vegan food all over Chicago.
Urban Vegan 1605 W Montrose
773.404.1109 www.urbanveganchicago.com Open only for the past six months, the vegan restaurant serves Thai food.
Victory’s Banner 2100 W Roscoe
773.665.0227 www.victorysbanner.com A popular breakfast and lunch spot house in Roscoe Village. Try the design-your-own scramble or raspberry French toast. It’s a little hippy-dippy (sugar packets carry spiritual messages and the wait staff wear saris) but not preachy.
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, BOI s Best Restaurants AMERICAN___________
Ann Sather 929 W. Belmont 773.348.2378.
5207 N Clark 773.271.6627 & 3411 N Broadway 773.305.0024. These bustling hot spots, serving traditional Swedish pancake house fare, are best known for hearty fare and delish cinnamon rolls.
The Bagel 3107 N. Broadway 773.477.0300
Halsted’s Bar & Grill 3441 N. Halsted 773.348.9696 This Boystown eatery serves up a wide array of tasty appetizers, burgers, sandwiches, and popular comfort food items at very reasonable prices in a fun and inviting atmosphere. Beers on tap are aplenty and the weekend brunch draws an attractive crowd.
Hamburger Mary’s 5400 N. Clark 773.784.6969.
The quintessential Jewish style deli is the perfect spot for a corned beef or pastrami sandwich, some chicken soup, lox and bagels or a full dinner that tastes as if someone’s Jewish momma made it.
“Eat, Drink and be... MARY” at this fun and popular Andersonville restaurant which features a wide array of burgers and sandwiches, along with an interesting selection of tasty appetizers. Wash it all down with one of Mary’s home-brewed ales.
Chicago Diner 3411 N. Halsted 773.935.6696
Horizon Café 3805 N. Broadway 773.883.1565.
This world famous vegetarian restaurant offers vegan and organic offerings. Organic beers, wine, and spirits are also available.
Cocktail 3359 N. Halsted 773.477.1420. The
kitchen at this popular bar serves up better and fancier food than it needs to. The menu ranges from gourmet salads and sandwiches to comfort food and fabulous brunch dishes.
Crew 4804 N. Broadway 773.784.2739. More
than just a sports bar, the menu includes a variety of hamburgers, sandwiches, salads and comfort food.
Deluxe Diner 6349 N. Clark 773.743.8244.
Conveniently located near Rogers Park’s gay triangle, the diner’s “open 24 hours on weekends” status is perfect after a night at the bars. Featured menu items include breakfast skillets that are served anytime.
Jimbo’s Red Hots 3617 N. Broadway 773.868-
9700. Steamed jumbo hot dogs from Red Hot Chicago with toppings such as pickles, lettuce, tomato, celery salt, onions & hot peppers; char dogs & foot longs too. Open 24 hours. Signature Pizza located in the same spot, serving pizza, pasta & burgers, also open 24 hours.
Golden Nugget Family Restaurants
2720 N. Clark 773.929.0724. 2406 W. Diversey 773.252.8903. 1765 W. Lawrence 773.769.6700. A great option for after bar dining as they are all open 24-7, and have free parking. The large menu is sure to please, especially the classic breakfast and hearty dinners. Everything is housemade, known for fluffy buttermilk pancakes,
Gyro-Mena 905 W. Belmont 773.935.2600.
Augments the Athenian Gyros by satisfying the American desire to pick our own toppings! True Athenian Gyros is a choice of all natural nonground meat (pork or chicken) stacked and cooked on a rotisserie.
This long-time popular Lakeview family restaurant serves up big portions of creative homestyle dishes as well as healthy fare (broth-based soups and whole wheat tortilla wraps) and at affordable prices. Breakfast served all day long. Delivery available.
IHOP 3760 N. Halsted 773.296.0048. More than a
pancake house, this 24-hour Boystown institution serves up affordably priced appetizers, sandwiches, and entrees that are sure to satisfy varying after-bar wants and needs.
Jury’s 4337 N. Lincoln 773.935.2255. Watch all
the poplular sports at this friendly neighborhood sports bar. Known for their killer burgers. They offer a late night menu along with daily specials and even brunch on Sundays.
Kit Kat Lounge 3700 N. Halsted 773.525.1111.
Providing the best of diva entertainment along with a full dinner menu, they offer ½-price cocktails and Buy 1 Get 1 Free Entree on Wednesdays.. On Monday nights get 50% off your entire bill.
Nookies Tree 3334 N. Halsted 773.248.9888. A
regular haunt for the locals of Boystown and popular with hangover recoverees, the diner serves made-toorder omelets, pancakes, waffles and other brunch fare all day. And it’s open 24 hours on weekends.
Melrose 3233 N Broadway 773.327.2060. This
Lakeview institution has been catering to the afterbar crowds for decades, serving breakfast anytime along with typical diner fare. Open 24 hours
Philly’s Best 907 W. Belmont 773.525.7900.
Authentic Philly cheese steak sandwich. Their meat is brought directly from Philadelphia. Also, medium crust pizza, oven baked grinders & fresh salads.
Stella’s Diner 3042 N. Broadway 773.472.9040.
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, BOI s Best Restaurants Wilde Bar & Restaurant 3130 N. Broadway
773.244.0404. This cozy upscale Irish pub offers a laid back and warm atmosphere and a wide ranging menu that is sure to please. Expect updated versions of pub favorites such as chicken pot pie, meatloaf, fish & chips, burgers and salads. ASIAN__________________
Jitlada Thai House 3715 N. Halsted
773.388.9988. This quaint family-owned eatery features Asian favorites such as pad Thai, pineapple fried rice, crab rangoon, pot stickers, tempura and nine spice curry items. Delivery available.
Pingpong 3322 N. Broadway 773.281.7575.
This popular Lakeview restaurant features high quality Pan-Asian cuisine in a hip and modern atmosphere as well as top-notch people-watching both those in and walking by the restaurant. Delivery available.
Young’s Chinese 3949 N. Ashland
773.248.7998. This well-regarded outpost has earned a stellar reputation for great tasting food and delivery so quick you’ll swear there must be a wok in the car. ITALIAN_________________
Anna Maria Pasteria 4400 N. Clark
773.506.2662. Owned by sisters who hail from the Basilicata region of southern Italy, this neighborhood gem creates homemade modern and traditional Italian dishes that are authentic, delicious & inexpensive.
Angelina Ristorante 3561 N. Broadway
773.935.5933. Hosting the coolest and hippest Sunday brunch crowd in Lakeview, the menu includes Eggs Benedict, fritattas, Croque Monsieur and mufaletta sandwiches, almond-crusted stuffed French toast, and the free flow of Champagne mimosas. Brunch here is loud, raucous and FUN! Great for dinner, as well.
Panino’s Pizzeria 3702 N. Broadway
773.472.6200. Panino’s has established itself as a Boystown favorite with its varied menu selections, including gyros and burgers, pasta entrees, and of course pizza. Delivery available.
Taverna 750 750 W. Cornelia Ave 773.248.8333.
This restaurant, formerly known as Cornelia’s is the latest trendy Italian restaurant in the neighborhood. New owners, new looks and a new menu is sure to make this a new hot spot. 18 boi
MEDITERRANEAN____
Andies 1467 W. Montrose 773.348.0654. 5253 N
Clark 773.784.8616. Specializing in Mediterranean and vegetarian cuisine, specialties of the house include steak kabobs, gyros, and poultry dishes such as Greek Chicken and Lebanese Style Chicken Kefta Kabob. And as befits the cuisine, desserts include a very tasty baklava. The Sunday buffet brunch is extravagant and reasonably priced.
Sayat Nova 157 E. Ohio 312.644.9159. Classic
Mediterranean-American fare served in comfortable surroundings Every Thursday night things get extra gay for the “Boystown in Downtown” party. MEXICAN/LATIN__________
Cesar’s 2924 N. Broadway 773.296.9097 and at
3166 N Clark 773.248.2835 This family-owned operation offers an enticing menu full of delicious Mexican recipes, popular house specialties, irresistible desserts, and their signature “Killer Margaritas.”
El Nuevo Mexicano 2914 N. Clark 773.528.2131. Cozy dining room along with authentic Mexican cuisine makes this a great place for delicious dining. Open for lunch & dinner, great patio for summer outdoor dining. Delivery available too!
Las Mananitas 3523 N. Halsted St. 773.528.2109. Traditional & regional Mexican dishes along with freshly squeezed limes for margaritas. Nice place to eat, drink and window watch people on Halsted St. Has a full bar & plenty of hardy dishes to satisfy any appetite. Serving the community for over 28 years. Fiesta Mexicana 2423 N. Lincoln Ave 773.348.4144 (2nd Location) 4806 N. Broadway 773.769.4244. Traditional favorites along with great ambiance. Nice place to bring your family, friends or bring a date to. The Lincoln location has daily specials & live music.
Mayan Palace 2703 N. Halsted 773.935.4200
Known to be one of the very best Mexican restaurants in the city, the focus is on using fresh, high-quality ingredients for its “south of the border” cuisine. Portions are generous and the cool Margaritas dubbed “The World’s Best!” Is your target market is in our distribution area?? ADVERTISE YOUR RESTAURANT IN BOI MAGAZINE Call 773.975.0264 or email us at boiADS@aol.com More listings @ boimagazine.com, click on Dining link
Cover Story Time to Get R-E-A-L!
By Michael Elder It never ceases to amaze me how many new gadgets and supplements still seem to find their way into the fitness industry promising some miraculously easy way to lose weight. While some of these products may produce short term weight loss, almost everyone who uses them ends up being depressed and upset because they gain their weight right back. The truth is that we, the American public, are being misled! These companies thrive on taking money from the unsuspecting public! So many Americans are looking for an easy fix; magic in a bottle. The sad truth is that no such thing exists. There is only one sure way to achieve weight loss and fitness goals. A proven system that has worked time and again. I like to call this system the REAL system. R = Rest E = Eat A = Aerobics L = Lift!
Rest Adequate rest and recovery is
seven or eight hours of sleep a night is recommended. If this is not achieved, a stress hormone called cortisol can build up in the body and cause a catabolic effect (an eating away of muscle tissue). When this happens, metabolism slows dramatically and not only makes building muscle impossible, but can also lead to weight gain. The same effect can happen during periods of high stress. Bottom line folks, get your Zzzz’s! Achieving results in fitness is impossible without them.
Eat It’s important to understand that
if we are to achieve results, we must speed up our metabolism, the rate at which our bodies burn through food. We can do this by eating smaller meals every three to four hours.
Each meal should consist of a lean protein, a complex starchy carbohydrate, and a fibrous carbohydrate. An example would be a chicken breast, baked potato, and When we exercise, we put our bodies steamed broccoli. Each of these foods through what I like to call “good damage”. During resistance training, we should be relatively close in portion add stress and overload to our muscles size- about the palm of your hand. If this kind of eating plan is followed, you with the hope of strengthening them. can rest assured that your blood sugar This method is possible as long as we will be stabilized and that your body follow proper nutritional guidelines will be in an optimal fat burning zone. and give our bodies enough time to go through a process called “protein synthesis”, a rebuilding of muscle tissue. This type of eating plan should be followed for six days. On the seventh day, you get to cheat! The idea is not to In order to provide enough time for protein synthesis to take place, a good gorge yourself all day long, but if you often an over-looked component in many exercise programs.
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feel like eating pizza, then eat pizza for goodness sake! The cheat day helps people to adhere to the strict eating plan without allowing metabolism to suffer. There should be only one cheat day per week. Two cheat days in a row causes the metabolism to suffer and making weight gain inevitable. Let me stress something else. These guidelines are for the general public and general fitness enthusiasts. Obviously if you’re a professional body builder or power lifter, then you can get away with eating a lot more, because there is a much stronger demand put on the body thereby requiring more fuel. The recovery process will also require a significant increase in caloric intake and nutrients. Nutrition is an essential component of every fitness program. More in depth articles on nutrition are on my web site.
we would burn up much of our stored fuel (glycogen), and our bodies would have to resort to using our own muscle tissue for fuel during resistance training, thereby destroying our fat burning capability! If, however, we were to do aerobic exercise after resistance training, our bodies would turn to fat as the primary fuel source.
Lift Resistance training seems to scare some people away. I won’t lie to you, it is not easy work. But, believe me; the payoff is well worth it. Not only are you increasing your body’s fat burning capability, but you are also building strength, toning and defining your muscles, increasing bone strength and density, and increasing your energy levels beyond what you could possibly imagine.
Fat is burned in muscles, therefore, when we challenge our muscles with erobics Exercise is not an option, it’s resistance training, we are improving a must! In order to burn fat, we must and enhancing our fat burning move our bodies, and that is where capability. Care should always be taken aerobic exercise comes into the picture. to learn proper form and technique Aerobic exercise allows us to burn a for all resistance training exercises, significant amount of calories, and also including both free weights and provides us with a great many health machines. Hiring a qualified personal benefits at the same time. It can also trainer is a great way to ensure that you play a central role in weight loss/ fat loss. will learn the exercises correctly.
A
People with a history of health risks may need to get their doctor’s approval before engaging in an aerobic exercise program. However, healthy individuals should be able to push themselves between 60 and 90 percent of their maximum heart rate, depending on their personal fitness level. Research has shown that performing aerobic exercise 20- 30 minutes 2-3 times per week results in significant health benefits. But there is one key thing to remember here: In order to optimize weight loss, aerobic exercise must be performed after resistance training. Doing aerobic exercise prior to resistance training,
Regardless of what you see on the television or read in the magazines, I hope I have convinced you by now that there is only one tried and true method that works for weight loss and fitness goals, the REAL method: Rest, Eat, Aerobic exercise, and Lift. If you follow these concepts, you cannot fail! Michael Elder has been serving as a fitness professional in Chicago for the last 13 years. He is certified through the American Council on Exercise (ACE), and has also been certified through the National Strength Professionals Association (NSPA). He comes from a background in gymnastics and martial arts, and has been certified in kick boxing. He can be reached through his web site, www.MichaelElder.com. boi 21
Chicago Spotlight: Tom Chiola Interviews with leaders in Chicago GLBT community by Gregg Shapiro Tom Chiola served as a Circuit Court Judge in Chicago for 15 years after becoming the first openly gay candidate elected to public office in Illinois. After retiring and stepping down from the bench, he returned to something he loved as a kid... acting.
When did you come out and what was the experience like for you?
I started to come out in law school in Champaign, IL in 1976 by going to the local gay bar (Giovanni’s). But I remained semi-closeted until I moved to Chicago in the summer of 1978. When my Mom came to visit me for her birthday in Oct. of 1978, we got a little drunk over dinner and I told her why she wouldn’t be getting any grand-kids from me. She returned to Springfield and told my Dad and siblings. I got calls all week from them telling me that they loved and supported me, even from my brother--the Catholic priest. I’ve also been blessed with a supportive extended family. When I took my then-boyfriend to my (pregnant, 17 yr. old) niece’s wedding in Springfield, my brother-in-law told my football coach uncle that my boyfriend was “a close friend”. “How close?” “Very close”. “Oh”. My Mom was from a family of twelve and they have all been supportive over the years, even helping to lobby their elected officials for LGBT rights.
Name five of your LGBT heroes and say a few words about why you chose them.
It’s hard to choose only five. I was always very politically aware and active, so the usual suspects like Harvey Milk, Elaine Noble, Allan Spear, Larry Kramer and Frank Kameny (who just died) come to mind. (For the kids who haven’t heard of them, Google them for some amazing LGBT history lessons.) I remember how hard I cried watching the candlelight march following Milk’s assassination. Locally, Dr. Ron Sable (unsuccessful aldermanic candidate in 1987 in Tom 22 boi
Tunney’s ward) and Danny Sotomayor (local ACT-UP leader) were inspirations to speak the truth to power. Watching Tom Waddell, the father of the Gay Games, battle the US Olympic Committee and empower gay and lesbian athletes to strive for their personal best was awesome.
What do you consider to be your most significant contribution to the LGBT community in Chicago and at large?
With the help of so many people in the LGBT community and some straight allies, I was able to become the first openly gay candidate elected to any federal, state, county or municipal office in Illinois when I won a seat on the Circuit Court of Cook County in 1994. I think that race opened some doors (actually broke down some doors) for gay and lesbian candidates who came later. We now see LGBT candidates actually being slated by the Democrats as the preferred candidate in various races. Also, the Supreme Court of Illinois amended the rules applicable to Judges and lawyers in Illinois to include “sexual orientation” in the non-discrimination provision as a result of my lobbying.
What are your future goals and aspirations?
I retired from the bench and have returned to a passion which I had before deciding to go to law school. Growing up in Springfield, I was the proverbial “big fish in a small pond” at our local summer theatre. I hung around with the kids in the theatre department at Illinois State but thought that I could never make a living as an actor (doubted my talent?), so I went on to law school. Now my old college friend Rondi Reed is on Mike and Molly, and I’m trying to break into the theatre scene here in Chicago. Any producers or directors out there who need a “mature”, non-Equity, guy who’s in pretty good shape for his age? Words of wisdom to the next LGBT generation? Come out, if you’re not already out. Trust that those who love you will not stop loving you when you do. Get involved in community organizations. Volunteer—you’ll learn about yourself and the world! Register and VOTE! Power is not given; it is won, and there are many powerful anti-gay interests who are actively working against us who will never give up their power willingly. Learn from those who have gone before us. As Motormouth Maybelle says in Hairspray, “You can’t tell where you’re goin’ unless you know where you been.”
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In The Know, On The Go by Harry Taint
Sing & Laugh
Kit Kat Lounge hosts a viewing party for the Grammys on Sunday, Feb. 12. Enjoy the broadcast and on-site performances as well, with Diva Kinley Preston as Katy Perry. The viewing party will also feature a variety of giveaways, such as CDs, DVDs and other merchandise from Lady Gaga and Katy Perry…Varla Jean Merman brings her hilarious one-woman show to Hydrate on Feb. 3 & 4. Not only is she hysterical, but quite a talented musician… Laugh your ass off as OutLoud Chicago and The Qu present the season premiere of Queer Comedy @ Zanies, featuring headliner Chip Pope (Comedy Central’s Premium Blend, Beavis and Butthead, The Rosie Show), host Adam Guerino (Laugh Track at Sidetrack, Gay Chicago TV) Meredith Kachel and Matteo Lane.
Hot Stuff
If the winter’s too frigid for you, warm up by thinking of hot guys removing their clothes! On Feb. 16, P.Y.G. (Professional Young Gays) Inc. and TPAN present a kick-off reception for Chicago Takes Off. Get an inside look into this year’s cutting-edge burlesque show (coming up on Saturday, March 3), the event is free, for more information and to secure your spot go to www.p-y-g.org asap, as space is limited... Then head over to the Ram on Feb. 17 as daddies to strut their stuff for a chance to be ogled and admired (and win some prizes).
Charity Begins At Home
The Center on Halsted’s “Human First” gala on May 12 celebrates 10 years since the Center opened and they’ve scored k.d. lang and Bravo’s gay VP, Andy Cohen as special guests. My guess is that the event at the Harris Theater will be a sell-out, so grab your tix right away…Speaking of acting fast, go to
www.fredsays.org and take a look at the note cards featuring an adorable puppy. You’ll want to buy dozens of boxes, and you should. The cards are a fundraiser for the Gender, Sexuality and HIV Prevention Center at Children’s Memorial Hospital and each box sold helps provide health care for uninsured HIV+ teens. .
Rogers Park Ruckus
Things will be rockin’ in the RP as Touche hosts “Mr. Chicago Leather 2012” the week-end of Jan 27-29. Among the weekend’s events are “Meet the Contestants” party on Friday, Jan. 27, a fetish flea market on Saturday afternoon, followed later that evening by the contest and a “Down & Dirty” victory party. Sunday starts with the flea market and winds up with a “Victory Celebration Beer Bust” with a buffet and raffle hosted by Mr. Chicago Leather 2012... Not to be outdone, the gals at Parlour on Clark are bringing live music on Saturday nights. Serita Cheeks performs on Jan. 28 with Sami Grisafe leading an all-star show the next weekend... As if that weren’t enough to wear you out, on Friday, Feb. 3 the Flesh Hungry Dog Show at Jackhammer features a wild show starring Fatally Cool, Dyke Van Dick, Skinny Paul and special guest Andrea Sottovoce.
TV Cubed
Videographers showcasing the perspective of gay, Asian men unveil the second season of webisodes from GAMTV (Gay Asian Male Television) at The Call on Jan. 28. Two series, “Pink Underwear: Love on the Rocks?” and “Green Fairy Party” will debut… Club Krave hosts “I’m Sexy and I Know It!”, a drag show starring Serina Devine, Jazzelle Boyette, Kristina Kream, Jade Giavanni, Dominique LaPurr, and Violet Fog on Jan. 28… Speaking of drag, the center of the drag universe, “RuPaul’s Drag Race” begins its new season on Logo on Monday, Jan. 30. boi 25
MARY’S ATTIC @
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Ask Ace
Relationship & Sex Advice
Frustrated on Fulton
There’s this guy I know from a bar that I’d like to get to know better. Not romantically or sexually, he’s just a nice guy who lives an interesting life. He seems happy to see me whenever we run into each other at the bar. If I’m there first, he’ll sit next to me, even if there are other seats open, or he’ll pull up a stool for me if he’s there first. That leads me to believe that he enjoys my company. I’ve tried to make plans with him to do non-bar social things like going to a movie, grabbing a bite to eat or hanging out at the parade. He always says that it would be fun but then won’t commit to a time and date or cancels at the last minute. What’s the deal?
Dear FOF
The deal seems to be that he is content with the relationship as it is. He may not want to expand your friendship beyond the current scope for one of two reasons; he may be on the down-low and not want to be seen outside the bar, or he may not be that into you. Are you certain that you have made it clear that you’re not interested in a romantic or sexual relationship? If so, take the direct approach and ask why all your invitations have been turned down. If he claims that he has no problem, ask him out again. If he backs out give it a couple more tries, but after three strikes, he’s out.
Itchy Down There
During the holidays I stayed with some friends at their condo in Mexico. We had a great time, but a few days after I came home I discovered that I had crabs. I didn’t sleep with anyone while I was there so I know I didn’t get the crabs from sexual contact. How do I tell my friends that I got crabs from their bedding?
Dear IDT
implying that their bedding was infested. Even if that was the source, what good would it do? But you must let them know in case it is the source to avoid spreading the infestation.
Bi-Guy
I am bi-racial, although most people wouldn’t assume so from looking at me. Although I am half Black, I have red hair, green eyes and very pale skin. I recently moved from the Chicago area to Atlanta. Some of my co-workers here make racist jokes from time to time. I’ve told them that I don’t appreciate hearing those jokes, but, that hasn’t stopped them. I feel as if I’m in an awkward situation. If I bring up the fact that I’m bi-racial now, they’re certain to feel uncomfortable.
Dear B-G
You’ve asked them not to tell racist jokes in front of you and they continue to do so and you’re worried about embarrassing them?!?! Whether you are bi-racial or not doesn’t even factor into the matter, telling racist jokes in the workplace (or anywhere else, for that matter) is inappropriate and probably counter to your employer’s conduct code. Talk to someone in your company’s HR department if there is one. If not speak to your employer. If your employer is part of the problem, it is time to put the problem back on your co-workers. The next time you hear one of those jokes, say something like, “I’ve asked you not to say things like that as I find them offensive and you continue to do so. I find these jokes offensive, perhaps you don’t realize how hurtful it is to hear comments like that about me.” Be prepared for a stunned silence, and for those too stupid to catch your meaning, spell it out for them. Be prepared for some awkward moments, your co-workers deserve them.
You may not have gotten the crabs from your ________________________________ friends’ bedding. If you used a towel that you Ace Magyar has a BA in communications, a MA in rented from a beach vendor, you may have sex therapy and a PhD in zoology. He is a registered gotten them that way. In the end it doesn’t couple’s counselor specializing in the GLBT community. matter how you got them, you need to let your friends know. You can tell them without Send your questions to boieditorial@aol.com. boi 29
Chicago Bars and Clubs Boystown / Lakeview
3160 3160 N.Clark G&L, LM,DS Berlin 954 W. Belmont G&L, D, 4 Bobby Love’s 3729 N. Halsted G&L Buck’s Saloon 3439 N. Halsted G Cell Block 3702 N. Halsted G, LF Charlie’s 3726 N. Broadway G, D, W Circuit 2.02 3641 N. Halsted G&L, D, 4 Cocktail 3359 N. Halsted G, GB Elixir Lounge 3452 N. Halsted G, 4 F. O’Mahony’s 3701 N. Broadway G&L, R Hydrate 3458 N. Halsted G, D, DS, 4 Kit Kat 3700 N. Halsted G&L, DS, R Little Jim’s 3501 N. Halsted G, V, 4 Lucky Horseshoe 3169 N. Halsted G, GB Manhandler 1948 N. Halsted G, W, 4 Minibar 3341 N. Halsted G, R North End 3733 N. Halsted G Roscoe’s 3356 N. Halsted G, D, V, DS Scarlet 3320 N. Halsted G Sidetrack 3349 N. Halsted G, V Smart Bar / Metro 3730 N. Clark MS, D, 4 Spin 800 W. Belmont G, D, V, DS The Closet 3325 N. Broadway G&L, V, 4
773.327.5969 773.348.4975 773.525.1200 773.525.1125 773.665.8064 773.871.8887 773.325.2233 773.477.1420 773.477.1420 773.549.0226 773.975.9244 773.525.1111 773.871.6116 773.404.3169 773.871.3339 773.871.6227 773.477.7999 773.281.3355 773.348.1053 773.477.9189 773.549.4140 773.327.7711 773.477.8533
Chicago Downtown
Baton Show Lounge 436 N. Clark DS 312.644.5269 Club 720 720 N. Wells MS, D, 4 312.787.8720 Crimson Lounge 333 N. Dearborn MS, D, R 312.923.2473 Downtown Bar & Lounge 440 N State G 312.464.1400 Excalibur/Vision 632 N. Dearborn MS, D, 4 312.266.1944 Funky Buddha 728 W. Grand Ave. MS, D 312.666.1695 House of Blues 329 N. Dearborn MS, LM, 4 312.923.2000 Krush/Prop House 1657 N. Elston G&L, D, 4 773.486.2390 Second Story Bar 157 E. Ohio G, V 312.923.9536 Sound Bar 226 W. Ontario MS, D, 4 312.787-4480 Spy Bar 646 N. Franklin MS, D, 4 312.587.8779 Underground 56 W. Illinois MS, D, 4 312.644.7600 Vibe 1543 N. Kingsbury MS, D, 4 312.266.1900
Chicago Northside CONTINUED
Crew 4804 N. Broadway G&L, V, R 773.784.2739 Davenport’s 1383 N. Milwaukee G&L, LM 773.278.1830 Debonair Social Club 1575 N. MilwaukeeAve. MS, D 773.227.7990 Fat Cat 4849 N. Broadway MS, R 773.506.3100 Green Dolphin St. 2200 N. Ashland G&L, D, LM, 4 773.395.0066 Green Mill 4802 N. Broadway MS, LM, 4 773.878.5552 In Fine Spirits 5420 N Clark MS, R 773.334.9463 Jackhammer 6406 N. Clark G, D, V, GB, LM, 4 773.743.5772 Joi de Vine 1744 W. Balmoral L, R 773.989.6846 Kinetic Playground 1113 W. LawrenceMS, D, LM, 4 773.769.5483 Marty’s 1511 W. Balmoral G&L 773.561.6425 Mary’s Attic 5400 N Clark G&L, D, V, R 773.784.6969 Parlour On Clark 6341 N. Clark 773.564.9274 Mary’s RecRoom 5402 N Clark G&L, D, V, R 773.784.6969 Scot’s 1829 W. Montrose G&L 773.528.3253 SoFo Bar 4923 N. Clark G 773.784.7636 T’s 5025 N. Clark G&L, R 773.784.6000 The Call 1547 W Bryn Mawr G&L, D, DS, V, LM 773.334.2525 The Glenwood 6962 N Glenwood G 773.764.7363 Touché 6412 N. Clark G, V, LF, 4 773.465.7400 Uptown Lounge 1136 W. Lawrence 773.878.1136
Chicago Southside
Club Escape 1530 E. 75th G&L, D Escapades 6301 S. Harlem G&L, D, V, 4 Inn Exile 5758 W. 65th G&L, D, V Jeffrey Pub 7041 S. Jeffrey G&L, D, V, 4
Chicago Suburbs
Hideaway 7301 W. Roosevelt Forest Park G, D, V, DS, GB Club Krave 13126 S. Western Blue Island G&L, D, V, DS, GB, 4 Hunters 1932 E. Higgins Elk Grove Village G, D, V, GB, 4 Mission 209 E. Chicago Downtown Elgin G&L, D, V Encompass 24215 Rush St. Lake Station, IN G&L, D, R, DS Velvet Rope 728 Lake St Oak Park G&L, D, V, R
Adult Entertainment
Chicago Northside
The Anvil 1137 W. Granville G, V @mosphere 5355 N. Clark G&L, V, GB Big Chicks 5024 N. Sheridan G&L, D, R
773.973.0006 773.784.1100 773.728.5511
G------------------------------------------------------------------Gay Male L---------------------------------------------------------------------Lesbian G&L-------------------------------------------------Gay Male & Lesbian D-------------------------------------------------------------------Dancing V-----------------------------------------------------------------------Video GB-------------------------------------------------------------Go Go Boys DS--------------------------------------------------------------Drag Show R--------------------------------------------------------Restaurant, Food
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773.667.6454 773.229.0886 773.582.3510 773.363.8555
Banana Video 4923 N. Clark G, BK Bijou Theater 1349 N. Wells G, GB, BK Man’s Country 5017 N. Clark G, GB, BH Steamworks 3246 N. Halsted G, BH, FC The Ram 35111/2 N. Halsted G, BK, D
708.771.4459 708.597.8379 847.439.8840 847.488.0320 219.962.4640 708.358.8840
773.561.8322 312.943.5397 773.878.2069 773.929.6080 773.525.9528
4-------------------------------------------------------------Open til 4am MS--------------------------------------------------------Mostly Straight LF---------------------------------------------------------Leather / Fetish W-------------------------------------------------------------------Western LM--------------------------------------------------Live Music / Cabaret BH--------------------------------------------------------------Bath House BK----------------------------------Adult Book, Booth & Video Store FC-------------------------------------------------------------Fitness Club