Coming Soon: "Pop Your Cork" Happy Hour

Happy New Year Boys!!

Well, the weather outside is frightful, but get ready for something truly delightful!!

If your January social life feels a bit naked, give yourself a big gay present right now and put the January 8th BGCC event on your calendar! We'll keep you warmer than a fur coat and cozier than a pair of flannel boxers!

We have the location lined up, but you know how we like to TEASE and TITILLATE you!! Here are a few hints: you'll feel as though you've been transported to a sultry, tropical restaurant in French colonial Southeast Asia. This Gold Coast venue was designed by Greg Jordan and re-creates the mood and experience of this magnificent colonial world in all it's splendor!

Want to sample their delicious food? Feel a warm wind through your hair? We do, too!

December Naughty or Nice Photos Posted!! Click here to see who really was naughty or nice.

XOXO,
Your Hosts

"Nauty or Nice" Happy Hour - Final Details!!

He's making a list and checking it twice... why don't you come tell Santa if you have truly been Naughty or Nice!!

That's right boys... its the Season X BGCC "Naughty or Nice" Holiday Happy Hour.

Didn't get a chance to tell Santa what you really want for Christmas? Well come tell our Hunk-Claus your true desires.

XOXO,
Your Hosts

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WHAT: The "Naughty or Nice" Holiday Happy Hour

WHEN: Thursday, December 11th, 2008, 5:30 - 8:30 pm

WHERE: The Underground, 56 W Illinois (enter from the alley off Illinois) Click here for more information on our fabulous location.

COVER: Happy Holidays from your BGCC Hosts, no cover charge!!

DRINK SPECIALS: The Underground's Liquid Regiment House Martinis for $9 or Plain Martinis for only $7

FOOD: There will be a large selection of food to celebrate the holidays from The Underground's kitchen.

SOUNDS: DJ Brett Locascio's (BGCC's own B.Lo) Mix of hits and holiday favorites.

Click on the Season X Calendar to the right and get those vacation/sick days planned now for 2009. And dont forget to join us in January for our Big 10th Birthday!!

xoxo,
Your Hosts

"Lets Do It Again" Encore Happy Hour Photos

Hey boys,

Well we "did it again" and the second time around was even more amazing than the first! Last Thursdays "Lets Do It Again" Encore Happy Hour was a fabulous success and it's all thanks to you. Between the silent auction and your fabulous donations we brought in over $7,000 for AIDSCare Chicago. BRAVA!

Season X is truly going to be our most fabulous season ever!!!

We can't wait to see you again in December. Check out the website for our Season X calendar so you can request those days off now!

XOXO,
Your Hosts

Photos Posted:

Want to see how fabulous you looked that night, or did you miss the event and want to the hotties that showed? Follow this link to see all the photos from the November Encore Party. Or you can click here to see all the haunted photos from our October Haunted Halloween Happy Hour - now on Facebook.

"Lets Do It Again" Happy Hour - UPDATED

Hey boys, for the second event of our Tenth Anniversary BGCC season, we're going to Encore Liquid Lounge to "Do It Again". Come join us this Thursday, November 13 for our "Lets Do It Again" Happy Hour.

All of your $10 minimum donation and bids from the Silent Auction will benefit AIDSCare Chicago, as well as a multitude of tasty hors d'oeuvres during the happy hour!

Click here to purchase your tickets now!!

Encore is a cozy place, so attendance will be limited. Please make your door donation by purchasing a ticket in advance!
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WHAT: The Let's Do It Again Happy Hour!

WHEN: Thursday, November 13, 2006, 5:30 - 8:30 pm

WHERE: Encore Liquid Lounge at the Hotel Allegro
171 W Randolph St. (Enter through the hotel lobby)

DRINK SPECIAL: Enjoy special Red Ribbon-tinis for only $5. Encore also has a great selection of signature drinks.

FOOD: There will be a selection of complimentary appetizers and hors d'oeuvres from Encore's kitchen.

BENEFICIARY: Kimpton's Red Ribbon Campaign for AIDSCare Chicago

MINIMUM DONATION: $10, with 100% going to our beneficiary. Your donation also includes a complimentary cocktail at the event! (See below for tickets)

SILENT AUCTION: There will be a silent auction during the event for travel, hotel packages and more. As always, 100% of the auction will go to our beneficiary.

LIMITED ADMISSION: Please note that there are only a limited number of tickets available due to the size of the location. Click on the link below to reserve your ticket today with a (minimum) $10 donation!

Click here to purchase your tickets now!!

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Transportation Info

ACCESSIBILITY: Our location is wheelchair accessible.

BY EL: Red line to Lake, walk south to Randolph then four blocks west to the Hotel Allegro. Blue, Brown or Purple line to Clark/Lake, walk one block south to Randolph then one block west.

BY BUS: Bus #156 LaSalle or #134/135/136 LaSalle Express to Randolph. Bus #11 Lincoln/Sedgewick to Randolph (northbound Franklin/southbound Wells) walk east to Hotel Allegro.

PARKING: Street parking in the theater district downtown is very difficult. There are public parking garages located within a few blocks of Hotel Allegro.

We recommend a cab or public transportation. Drink responsibly, and don't drink & drive!

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Our Location: Encore Liquid Lounge

The Encore Lunch Club and Liquid Lounge offers a great downtown option: A trendy weekday lunch place and an easy evening spot for post-theater cocktails. Located in the Hotel Allegro Chicago, Encore is right next to the Palace Theater, and only a few easy blocks from the Schubert Theater, Lyric Opera, Oriental Theater and Symphony Center.

Once you're inside, step up to the spiral-shaped bar for one of their classic cocktails, like the Smokey Joe or Midnight in Chicago. Settle in, surrounded by thick velvet and textured walls, to dig into carved sandwiches, hearty soups or mouthwatering salads.

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Our Beneficiary: AIDSCare Chicago

AIDSCare establishes and maintains self-sustaining communities of individuals and families overcoming life challenging conditions such as AIDS, poverty, addiction, and homelessness.

AIDSCare bridges sickness to health, homelessness to permanent housing, and poverty to self-sufficiency for individuals and families overcoming life challenging conditions.

BIG GAY Halloween Party/Season X Opener!!

If you haven't guessed it yet, Autumn is here. So, say good bye to your bikini's and flip flops and HELLO to another fabulous Season of the Big Gay Cocktail Club!! We promise to keep you warm and toasty all season long.

To start off your hosts have put together the most fabulous season opener ... a BIG Gay Halloween party!! Not that Halloween isn't already the gayest of the Gay High Holidays, but what a better way start off our TENTH and MOST FABULOUS SEASON EVER!!
That's right sexys!!! The BGCC turns the big 1 - 0 this year and we want everyone to come and help us celebrate!!

WHAT: The Halloween Happy Hour
WHEN: Thursday, October 30, 2008. 5:30-8:30pm
WHERE: Uncle Fatty's Rum Resort, 2833 N Sheffield - This Lincoln Park destination is over the top popular with the "kids" for its tongue-in-cheek take on partying and fun. It will be all about the BGCC Halloween fun as we take over Uncle Fatty's and make it's Halloween-themed decor the backdrop to our party. Be sure to check out their costumed bartenders and staff, the whole group was recently admired in an article by Red Eye last week! This place is "Kitschy fun" done right! Click here for more information on Uncle Fatty's Rum Resort.

DRINK SPECIAL: Spook-tacular $7 Absolut Martinis
FOOD: Frightening Fabulous Pizza Party
SOUNDS: Our own DJ Brett Locascio will be spinning a haunted set of favorites
BENEFICIARY: The 12th Annual Northalsted Halloween Parade by the Triangle Neighbors Association

MINIMUM DONATION: $5 pre-pay online or $10 at the door - 100% of your donation goes to our beneficiary. Click here for advance tickets!!

TRANSPORTATION: While we don't recommend driving, there is convenient parking available in the lot adjacent to the northside of the building for $8. In addition, Uncle Fatty's Run Resort is only 1 block way from the Diversey Red & Brown Line El Stops.

We can't wait to start off our Tenth Season with all our members!!

XOXO,
Drew, Mark, Salsa, Romeo, LaLa, Tay, Sport, B-Lo, Sparky, Frisky, Fuego & Hazzard!!

PS. Check out the FABULOUS Season X Calendar by clicking here!!

Season 10 Events

• October 30, 2008 - "Haunted" Halloween Happy Hour
• November 13, 2008 - "Do It Again" Happy Hour
• December 11, 2008 - "Kiss me under the mistletoe" Holiday Season Kick off
• January 8, 2009 - "Pop Your Cork" New Years Celebration
• February 12, 2009 - "No-Tell Hotel" Happy Hour (bring a date or find one with us)
• March 12, 2009 - Art Show Happy Hour
  
• April 16, 2009 - "Kiss me you April Fool" - date revised
  
• May 14, 2009 - "Mayday, mayday, We are going down"
• June 18, 2009 - "Show us your Pride"
• July 30, 2009 - "Men At Sea" Pre-Market Days

About Season 10
That right boys! The Big Gay Cocktail Club turns TEN this year and in honor of our big birthday we are returning to our once a month calendar format! TEN Big Gay Events to celebrate TEN Big Fabulous years with you.

That was Then...

....This is now

Amazing how after 10 years together, none of us are a day over 29!

Pre-Market Days Cruise Photos Posted!

Hello to all our tan Summer fun Cocktail Club boys!!

Once again, the annual BGCC Cocktail Cruise was a smashing success!!

The crew of Kanan Cruises really gave us a summer treat! The food was amazing (I saw you boys chowing down, carbs, carbs, carbs) and the drinks flowed throughout the boat. With 3 levels and 2 outside decks, there were boys EVERYWHERE!

The photos have been collected and posted to our Shutterfly site, take a look and see just how hot you looked on that fabulous summer eve.

Your hosts are off for the rest of the summer, but look for us to return in the Fall for what will truly be the most FABULOUS SEASON 10!!

We hope everyone had a safe and wonderful Market Days!

See you in the Fall!

XOXO,
Your BGCC Hosts

Cocktail Club Cruise Selling Out!!

Happy Summer to our Hot Cocktail Club Boys!

By now we are sure you have all heard our summer reunion is a Pre-Market Days Boat Cruise!! We promise it will be a splash!

As usual this event is proving to be a major sellout. We are already over half booked. So don't delay boys, get your tickets now!!

Hope to see you onboard the fabulous Kanan Cruise Line's Ship as we tour our beautiful lakefront while enjoying cocktails and hors d'oeuvres!

Curious about the fabulous new boat we selected? Click the link below.

http://www.kanancruises.com/

Here are the details:

WHAT: The "Men at Sea" Happy Hour

WHEN: Thursday, August 7, 2008, 5:30 - 8:30 pm

WHERE: Kanan Cruises

ADDRESS: Navy Pier (see below for transportation info)

THE DEAL: What could be better to kick off Market Days Weekend than a Thursday cocktail cruise with the BGCC! We have put together an amazing package that includes the cruise, a delicious hors d'oeuvres buffet, a welcome cocktail when you arrive, as well as $6 cocktails featuring your favorite brands, $5.00-16 ounce beers and $2 sodas (details below!).

BOARDING: We board the ship from 5:30 till 6:30 p.m. When you purchase your tickets in advance you will be on an alphabetical list of names at the gate to the ship and they will check you off as you board.

SETTING SAIL: The ship will take off at 6:30 and cruise the lakefront for two hours, returning to Navy Pier at 8:30 p.m.

SOUNDS: The ship has four levels, including a piano bar on the lower level of the ship where guests board. Would anyone like to play as people board? With great views, upscale lounge space and Brett Locascio's special BGCC Cruise mix of music, there will be plenty of background sounds and environment to enjoy while touring our beautiful lakefront.

PRICE: We got an extraordinary deal from Kanan Cruises... $30, including an arrival cocktail (so you will literally arrive with a cocktail in your hand!), which means basically $24 for the cruise and hors d'oeuvres buffet! This cannot be beat and we thank them for making this such an affordable way to kick off Market Days Week in Style!!

TICKETS: We have found an inexpensive ticket source (only $1.74 service charge). The total cost for this lakefront celebration is only $31.74! Click the link below to reserve your space today! Space is limited and will be available on a first come/first served basis.

CLICK HERE FOR TICKETS: http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/39284

"Pride in the City" Happy Hour Photos

Happy Pride to all our fabulous cocktail club members!
Thank you for making our Big Gay "Pride in the City" Happy Hour and Season 9 Finale a HUGE success.

The Drake was the perfect location for our finale. The staff was impeccable and treated us to a night of amazing food (love those cheese platters) and fabulous drinks! The Palm Court never looked so Fabulous as it did with all our hot BGCC members.

With your help we raised about $4300 for Chicago House which will go a long way towards helping them complete their new apartment building and their factory for Sweet Miss Giving's Bakery! YUMMY!

It's always sad to see another season come and go, but don't cry my pretties. Check back soon for details on our Summer Reunion Cocktail Party and a few hints about our Season 10 schedule. We promise it will be splash!!

Until then, have a safe and hot summer and don't forget to check out all our photos at Shutterfly.com!!

June Event - Pride in the City!!

With Pride Weekend around the corner, we thought we would kick off the celebration in style at one of Chicago's most fabulous hotels!

WHAT: The Pride in the City! Happy Hour

WHEN: Thursday, June 26, 2008, 5:30 - 8:30 pm

WHERE: The Drake Hotel: A favorite among foreign dignitaries, royalty and celebrities alike, this old-world, Italian inspired hotel is bordered by Oak Street Beach, some of the most desirable shopping on the magnificent mile and boasts panoramic views of Lake Michigan. Award winning culinary dining and new renovations make this hotel a top pick.

This special BGCC will be held in the Palm Court, the gorgeous central lounge of the hotel that is home to its popular afternoon tea service and more! The Drake will be showcasing samples of the cuisine from its many wonderful restaurants as well as delightful cocktails and more!

For Tickets, Just follow this link!!

Season 9 Calendar

Here is a sneak peak at the rest of our Season 9 Calendar! Check back often and remember to watch your email!

SCHEDULED:
June 26, 2008 - It's a big WET Secret!

PAST EVENTS
9/25/07 - Men at Sea Party
10/24/07 - Lake Shore Theater
12/13/07 - Red Hot Happy Hour
3/6/2008 - Art Against Aids
4/24/08 - French Kiss Happy Hour

French Kiss Happy Hour Photos Posted!

A big wet kiss to all our BGCC members who attended our French Kiss Happy Hour at La Pomme Rouge in April, and helped raise money for the very worthy AIDS Legal Council Chicago!!

It was another lip smacking success thanks to you!

Our hosts at La Pomme Rouge were fabulous and treated us to delicious drinks, hors' devours and of course another spectacular venue!

Did I see some french kissing going on?!

Don't forget to check out the photos at Shutterfly.com. Did we catch you with your new spring fling?

Wonka Ball - Savings

The Annual Wonka Ball benefiting About Face Theater is coming up on Thursday, May 15th, 2008. The organizers would like to extend a special savings to all BGCC members! $25 off the normal ticket price!!
$225 VIP Tickets or $150 Regular Tickets! Just enter the Promo Code: BGCC (all caps) to receive the discount. Click here for tickets.
This is a great party and a great cause, so save the date and plan to attend!

Thrilling the Chicago community who anxiously awaits this party every single year, About Face has announced their exciting 12th annual benefit—The Wonka Ball. This year’s spectacular event will take place on May 15, 2008 at Gallery 1028, located on Goose Island in Chicago.

700 plus people attend the Wonka Ball, and 2008’s event will be more exciting than ever. Guests can expect a fabulous Vanity Fair, exclusive Hollywood-type affair, complete with celebrity guests and delightful treats! This year will also be particularly special as About Face celebrates their Founder and Artistic Director, Eric Rosen, as he departs for new adventures at Kansas City Repertory Theatre.

The VIP Reception this year, which is always a huge highlight of Wonka, will be held from 5:30-7pm in Calihan Catering’s on-site kitchen, where chefs will prepare food for VIP guests while they sip champagne. This is the very kitchen where Bravo’s Top Chef Chicago was recently filmed, and rumors of a Top Chef or two attending the VIP reception are running rampant! The reception will also include the presentation of the Leppen Community Leadership Award. Once the Wonka Ball general admissions begin, VIP guests will have access to a private room with food and a bar throughout the night.

The main event will be held from 6:30-11pm. There will be fabulous food, open bar, silent auction, raffle, DJ, incredible entertainment, and as
always, a fabulous guest list.

The French Kiss Happy Hour Announced!

Happy Spring to all our feverish BGCC boys!!

In honor of Spring, please join your hosts for our Spring fling, the French Kiss Happy Hour. We'll be enjoying drinks and hors d'oeuvres at La Pomme Rouge (French for "The Red Apple"). Bite in and let the juices of Spring run down your chin!

We're sure you're going to LOVE the location -- sensuous Art Nouveau and gilded Baroque accents in delicate balance with a hint of Victorian tension. Because La Pomme Rouge has limited space, we're asking those wishing to attend to make their donations to AIDS Legal Council Chicago early. Remember every penny you donate goes directly to them, so be generous. You can make your donation and reserve your spot by clicking here.

In addition, you'll have the opportunity to continue your decadent evening by making reservations for DINING OUT FOR LIFE after the BGCC! Check out the list of participating restaurants.

What: French Kiss Happy Hour
Where: La Pomme Rouge, 108 W Kinzie, click here for a map
When: Thursday, April 24th, 5:30 - 8:30
Beneficiary: AIDS Legal Council Chicago
Minimum Donation: $20 (be generous, every penny goes directly to their great work) Click Here for Tickets
Drink Special: $8 Stoli Martinis / $7 Stoli Cocktails

Getting There:
Location: 108 W. Kinzie Chicago, Il. 60610
Phone:312.245.9555
Parking: Valet Parking, Meters and Parking Garage across the street. Street parking difficult.
Public Transportation: CTA bus: Clark, LaSalle. Red Line train: Grand. Taxi cabs plentiful. Wheelchair Access: Yes

French Kiss Happy Hour

We're headed to a happening French themed nightlife destination in the river north area that we recently discovered and thought it would be fun to share! So get ready for celebrating the start of spring next Thursay.

WHAT: The French Kiss Happy Hour

WHEN: Thursday, April 24, 2008, 5:30 - 8:30 pm

WHERE: It's a secret! Watch your inbox and the website a few days before the event!

Art Against Aids Photos Posted

Hello Boys!

We are happy to report that the "Art Against Aids" Cocktail Hour / Silent Auction was a picture perfect event!!
Once again the staff at Le Passage treated us to an amazing spread of appetizers and fantastic cocktails! And the dinner afterward ... was truly a work of Art!

A HUGE thank you to all of our BGCC artists for donating their art and helping us raise over $5000 for Heartland Alliance!! You boys Rock!

In case you are wondering about the Vodka Challenge, Stoli beat Absolute 2:1.

Don't forget to check out this months photos at Shutterfly.com!!

Your hosts are also pleased to announce that we are already planning the rest of our Big Gay Cocktail Club season, so keep your eyes on your email, you won't have to wait long. Spring is here so lets meet up and celebrate the season!!

"Art Against Aids" Happy Hour

Sunday's hint of spring has your BGCC hosts craving Cosmos with friends! It's time to come out of hiding and help heat things up this Thursday as we return back to our monthly BGCC cocktail party this Thursday and raise money for Heartland Alliance.

Plan to join us for delicious cocktails, gourmet appetizers and a chance to bid on art and gift baskets!

THE VODKA CHALLEGE: STOLI VS. ABSOLUT! Stoli has challenged Absolut to see which is the smoother vodka. We'll let you decide on Thursday

Can't wait to see you there!! Here are the details:

WHAT: The "Art Against AIDS" Happy Hour

WHEN: Thursday, March 6, 2008, 5:30 - 8:30 pm

WHERE: Le Passage (description below)

ADDRESS: 937 North Rush Street (see below for transportation info)

DRINK SPECIAL: Stoli Martinis will be on special for $8 and don't miss the BGCC's First Vodka Challenge! Stoli vs. Absolut ... You taste, you vote, you decide (details below)

FOOD: Le Passage will be serving hors d'oeuvres to our guests. In addition, stick around and enjoy dinner after the event in their new restaurant, "The Drawing Room," and receive 20% off dinner!

BENEFICIARY: Heartland Alliance

MINIMUM DONATION: $20, which includes your ticket to the Stoli vs. Absolut Taste Challenge!, with 100% going to our beneficiary.

Here is a sneak peak at the artwork that will be available in our Silent Auction.


Robert Cleve, "Tulip Bowl"
12" round Fused Cranberry & Clear Iridized Glass, Value $175










Stephen Pease, Untitled
30"x10" Mixed medium oil and acrylic abstract painting, Value $500
Stephen is a self taught artist born April, 8, 1978 in Sanoma, California










Darren Jones, "Industrial Iris" 8"x8", Value $300
Darren Jones, "Cottage Iris" 12"x12", Value $425
Mixed Media of Acrylic & Sand
www.darrencjones.com









Armando Pedroso, "Idea"
6"x12" from his Copper Tile Matrix Series
Value $350
www.armandopedroso.com








Alex Aubry, "Caligraphy 97" - aubry_alex@hotmail.com
Acrylic on Canvas, Value $375
Alex Aubry is a practicing architect working in Chicago originally from Paris, France. His work primarily centers on research into particular forms of calligraphy from various Eastern cultures, in particular Ottoman, Japanese and Sanskrit. The focus of his work centers on the beauty of the script, which is treated as abstract forms that often bleed off the canvas. The written traditions of different cultures are often heavily loaded with social, religious and political symbolism. But through his work, such symbols are taken out of context by combining them with techniques more closely associated with Western traditions of abstract expressionism.



Paul Roberts, "Aqua"
36"x36" Acrylics on Canvas, Value $1500
An established artist, Paul has held several Chicago exhibitions. He is represented by Gruen Galleries. Paul donates paintings each year for HRC, Vital Bridges & Center on Halsted. His next show will be at MiniBar on March 20.
http://web.mac.com/paul.g.roberts








Jiankun, "Losing Mnemons"
20"x20" Framed B/W Photograph, Value $300
www.xiejiankun.com









Elvira Dimitri, "Reflecting" 2006
18"x18" Acrylic on Canvas











Ezra Eisenberg, "Star" 2007
8"x10" Digital Photography












Levi McCulloch, "The Pizza is Worth the Pain" 2008
24"x31" Acrylic Paper, Found Object











Louise Pappageorge, "OOOOPS" 2007
8.5"x11" Coolage

Calling All BGCC Artists!!!

Hello, Boys!

We're teaming up again with Heartland Alliance's Art Against AIDS project for our annual BGCC art show! Picture yourself mingling with friends and artists, martini in hand, discussing edgy work with local artists and BGCC members!

Whatever you're looking to pick up, we're sure you'll find it at the BGCC "Art Against Aids" Cocktail Hour on Thursday, March 6th!

And for those of you who are artists, WE NEED YOUR HELP! For those willing to donate a work of art, we'd like to feature you on our blog. Just send Tay (taypix@mac.com) the info listed below. Remember that every penny raised from your generous donation goes directly to Heartland Alliance!

Can't wait to see you!

WHAT: The "Art Against AIDS" Happy Hour

WHEN: Thursday, March 6, 2008, 5:30 - 8:30 pm

WHERE: It's a secret! Watch your inbox and the website a few days before the event!

Donating is easy! Just contact Tay at taypix@mac.com with the below info

- Your name

- Title of your work

- Medium

- Value

- About you

- A jpg or gif image of the work you’re donating

Just a reminder: The BGCC "Art Against Aids" Happy Hour will be held on Thursday, March 6th AND there are still tickets available for the Heartland Alliance Art Against Aids Benefit on Thursday, February 28th. Click here for more info on the benefit.

"Art Against AIDS" Happy Hour!, March 6th

The hosts of the BGCC have been hiding under heaps of blankets waiting for the weather to break, but it seems that the cold and snow is here to stay! We have rallied now and are ready to come out of hiding and heat up 2008 with our first fabulous event!

Hope you can join us!!

We are kicking off spring with an art show and silent auction to support Heartland Alliance's HIV/AIDS programs and services.

Your support of Art Against AIDS® will allow Heartland Alliance to continue to ensure these human rights for people living with HIV/AIDS.

WHAT: The "Art Against AIDS" Happy Hour

WHEN: Thursday, March 6, 2008, 5:30 - 8:30 pm

WHERE: It's a secret! Watch your inbox and the website a few days before the event!

www.heartlandalliance.org