Having attended the FGG annual meeting as a Volunteer for GLORY (Gay and Lesbian Organisation for Racing and Yachting), and had a chance to tour the venues for the Games, I can only express how impressed I was with the city, the facilites and the organization (although I hope it will be warmer in July!).

I would also add that the Chicago Gay Games website now has a Matching facility which will find you a team member if you need one for your team. Or a team if you have an individual entry.

And if you're going to Chicago I would urge you to book your accomodation ASAP as the hotels are filling up fast.

The selection process for the next Gay Games host city seemed to be fair and open with very impressive presentations, documentation and budgets from each bidding group with backing from city authorities, local gay groups and sports organizations. Congratulations to Cologne as winners and also to Johannesburg as runners up.

Paul White
GLORY (Gay and Lesbian Organisation for Racing and Yachting)
www.glorysailing.org

[ January 13, 2006, 11:19 PM: Message edited by: Jim at Outsports ]

It was great to see you in Chicago, Paul, and thanks for the nice comments.

If any of you know someone who wants to come to Chicago but has limited resources, the deadline to submit applications for the Outreach Scholarship program is January 1. The applications are now available in both Spanish and French, linked from our website at:
http://www.gaygameschicago.org/media/artic...cle.php?aid=113

Kevin Boyer, Board Co Vice-Chair
Gay Games VII

[ November 23, 2005, 03:38 PM: Message edited by: KevinB ]

Updates to Softball, Physique and Sailing have been posted to the GayGamesChicago.org website.

In Softball, further details about the 50+ senior division have been added. Most Gay Games sports are open to all ages and many have senior divisions but this will be he first attempt at a 50+ senior division in softball. Chicago has some experience in this area having hosted the Senior Cup softball tournament over Labor Day for many years (that tournament is 40+). Your jokes about field-based defibrillators are welcome (grin).

In Sailing, the specific combined weight limit for regatta teams is now posted - 275kg.

In Physique, one of our drug tested sports, there are challenges in remaining inclusive and welcoming of those on medical therapies that may coincidentally provide them with a muscle-building benefit in this sport, while balancing the interests of having a drug-free competition. A third competition category is going to be added - "Untested" - whereby anyone on medical therapies (regardless of medical condition) can participate and qualify for a Gold, Silver or Bronze medal. The "Tested" category will also yield Gold, Silver and Bronze Medals. The "Guest Competitor" category will remain with those people who self-select into that category receiving participation medals but not Gold, Silver or Bronze.

All competitors will participate alongside each other and judges will not know who is in what category. Tournament directors will separate the competitors into the three categories AFTER the judging to determine Gold, Silver and Bronze. The FGG and CGI sports committees and staff have been working on this new policy for quite some time and it represents another opportunity for the FGG to set a world-wide example in ensuring that those with conditions such as HIV have an opportunity to compete in sports, even while taking life-saving medications that might otherwise disqualify them. We are extremely appreciative of the input on this topic from physique/bodybuilding athletes throughout the world.

As always, CGI and the FGG is interested in input from sports, culture and community leaders. Email info@gaygameschicago.org, sports@gaygameschicago.org or call (773) 907-2006 to reach us.

Gay Games updates are posted regularly on the News page on the Gay Games website, including updates to sports.

Kevin Boyer, Co Vice Chair
Gay Games Chicago

[ December 03, 2005, 08:41 AM: Message edited by: KevinB ]

Sports updates have been posted to the Gay Games website for Beach Volleyball and (Indoor) Volleyball. These updates are provided on the Q&A pages of Beach Volleyball and Volleyball. These updates are primarily in response to questions we have received around uniforms, scheduling and referees.

In Indoor Volleyball we strongly encourage participants to register now as the most recent team captain count indicates we are getting closer to our maximum capacity in that sport. We will attempt to accommodate as many teams as possible. However, Volleyball is so large that even with our amazing Navy Pier facility, with 28 courts under one roof for the entire week, we will likely reach our capacity sometime early next quarter.

Kevin Boyer
Gay Games VII

On another thread, chuckvanc wrote:

"In my continuing quest for a bed to sleep in (in Chicago) how accessible are the hotel dorms to public transit and the gay hub(s)? Also, does anybody know if/where a "friendship village" area is planned?

Not having much luck in Vancouver finding 4 others to bond with and make the Dec 15 Team discount. Still time though."

Chuck - shortly we will make available lodging reservations at University Center, a brand new student housing complex that was created as a joint venture by Roosevelt University, DePaul University and Columbia College - three of Chicago's finest small private higher education institutions. The facility is located at 525 S. State Street. They have their location identified on the website map.

As a point of reference, the Hilton Chicago is at 720 S. Michigan, so this is 2 blocks north and 2 blocks west of that hotel. Hilton Chicago is our primary hub hotel and is where you'll find registration, ballroom dancing, media center and the expo. As you can see on their map, University Center is 1 block south of a subway stop that can take you via Red Line to the Lakefront and North Sports Villages, Green Line to the South Sports Village, and Blue to the University Sports Village. (View our villages on our map online.) University Center is walking distance to Millennium Park and Soldier Field. Pricing will be available shortly, but I think at least one package will include a meal plan.

Each of the four sports villages are designed to be "friendship" villages during the day-time with information, socializing opportunities, and ways to watch other sports and experience arts and culture. Millennium Park will be the site of downtown activities most night, serving as the "friendship village" during the nightime hours, but there will be so many fantastic events going on in the evenings, you might find yourself drawn to a party, a concert or a neighborhood pub.

I will mention your search for 4 others for the Team Discount to others in Vancouver and see if we can help you out.

Kevin Boyer
Gay Games VII

Thanks for the info, Kevin. If I go the student housing route, the available beds sound like they're in a great location.

I've located some Volleyball players, so I think my group discount puzzle is solved

Articles about British Gay Games Ambassadors Sir Elton John and Chris Morgan make me proud to live in a former British colony!

Kevin Boyer
Gay Games Chicago

For those that want to become a cop for LAPD, or those that want to meet one at Gay Games Chicago.

The NEWEST Gay Games Sponsor, the LAPD!!!

Los Angeles Police Department

Amazingly, I actually got it together and registered for the Chicago Gay Games! Yay for me! This means a huge chunk of my summer will be 'out east' as I'm also going to Montreal! Now, the big challenge is to stay uninjured! That, and the pesky 'finding an affordable hotel room.' Had my Mom in Vancouver over Christmas and her hotel right on Robson St (the main high end shopping St. right downtown) was $89. CDN.

Am very much looking forward to the summer. And oddly enough, my final push to get it together and get registered came from a movie, Brokeback Mountain, which did not affect me emotionally or viscerally when at the theatre, but has been bugging me for the last 6 days. Being a true "American story," it was a good reminder why the Gay Movement in the United States remains very important, and really how far there is to come. Go Chicago and good luck!

Nice post Chuck. Have fun in Chicago and hopefully I'll get a chance to meet you in Montreal.

Happy New Year!

For those looking for lodging in Chicago, a new hotel has been added to our accommodations block - available now for booking online. The rooms at the Hyatt Regency McCormick Place at 2233 S. Martin LUther King Drive are $119/single, $129/double. The hotel is the closest to Soldier Field and is also the closest to our South Sports Village - University of Chicago and environs. This is where Softball, Flag Football, Martial Arts, Golf and other sports will take place.

The walk from the Hyatt McCormick to the subway is a bit further - 5 or 6 blocks to the Red Line as opposed to most hotels that are within a block or two of the subway. But the price is certainly right and for those driving, the hotel is right on Lake Shore Drive which makes it convenient to all of the sports villages you might drive to (remember, we recommend that you NOT rent a car in Chicago for the Gay Games unless you plan on making trips to the burbs).

Happy New Year!

Kevin Boyer
Gay Games Chicago

[ December 29, 2005, 03:47 PM: Message edited by: KevinB ]

The Gay Games have added another 17 sponsors so far in the month of December. Together these 17 sponsors bring in an additional USD$850,000 in value-in-kind services and cash to the Gay Games effort. We're especially pleased to welcome our new Global Sponsors - Centaur Entertainment (Gold), Lambda Legal Defense (Bronze), and Chicago Free Press (Bronze). We now count 16 Global Sponsors and an amazing total of 134 sponsors.

As many of you know, some of our sponsors have been the subject of some attention from fringe right wing fanatatics. Anything you can do to show your support for our sponsors - from buying products and services to sending words of encouragement - are greatly appreciated. View our full sponsor list online where you'll find links to almost all of their home pages.

Kevin Boyer
Gay Games Chicago

The basketball competition at the Gay Games next summer will likely be the largest LGBT basketball tournament ever held. Registrations are on track to greatly exceed the previous title holder - the Coady Roundball Classic held each April in Chicago (except for 2006).

New competition details have been posted to the Basketball webpages on the Gay Games website. Specifically, look for details on how the "A" and "B" divisions will be divided for medal rounds, minimum number of games per team, details on the Over 35 and Over 50 competition and additional information regarding roster size.

The Gay Games matchmaker service is perfect for basketball as there are not many LGBT basketball leagues or teams throughout the world. Those that want to play basketball can be matched to a team, or teams can pick up players.

For more details on b'ball, email our basketball sports manager at mailto:basketball@gaygameschicago.orgbasketball@gaygameschicago.org.

Kevin Boyer
Gay Games VII

The full schedule of events for Gay Games VII Track and Field is now available on the Gay Games website. This schedule identifies the full list of events running from Sunday, 16 July 2006 through Friday, 21 July 2006, by event, age group, gender and heat.

The schedule is available in PDF format from links on our track and field pages. Questions can be directed to our Sports Staff at mailto:sports@gaygameschicago.orgsports@gaygameschicago.org.

Kevin Boyer
Gay Games Chicago

[ January 06, 2006, 11:07 AM: Message edited by: KevinB ]

There is new accommodations information now available online at GayGamesChicago.org.

Hostel: Located in downtown Chicago, Hostelling International is one of the world’s finest hostels, offering 6-10 bedded rooms, many with in-suite bathrooms, an in-house restaurant, Internet, and self-service kitchen. View pricing and reservation information online.

Dorm/University Housing: University Center is a brand-new state-of-the-art facility located in Chicago's South Loop. 4-bedroom apartments with private twin bedrooms and Quad Semi Suites with two beds per bedroom are available. The Semi Suites include one meal per day. View pricing and reservations information online.

Kevin Boyer
Gay Games VII

An 18km elite level cross-country race :confused: Hopefully I am reading the cycling event descriptions all wrong.

The Golf Competition at Gay Games VII has nearly reached its capacity. Registration will close before the end of January. There are a few remaining slots for those interested in registering now. If those slots go more quickly than anticipated, Golf registration will close sooner. A waiting list will be established, but since capacity has already been increased once we will not necessarily be able to accommodate those on the waiting list.

Details about Gay Games Golf Competition is available online. Contact Teresa Adams, our Sports Manager in charge of golf, at mailto:golf@gaygameschicago.orggolf@gaygameschicago.org for further details.

Kevin Boyer
Gay Games VII

A change has been posted to the competition details for Gay Games VII Ice Hockey . Whereas slap shots were previously only to be allowed in the Open Division, now slap shots will be allowed in all divisions. This change was in response to input from the Ice Hockey teams participating in the Gay Games.

The number of teams registered to play Ice Hockey competition at Gay Games VII has already exceed our forecasts and will likely finish at double the predicted size of the tournament. Fortunately we have significant additional capacity for the additional teams. Some registered teams are still looking to pick up a few players. Interested individuals and teams should sign up for our Matchmaker Service to facilitate placement.

We are also pleased to announce the addition of a 2nd Ice Hockey Sport Captain, Ryan Ruskin. You can read his bio online . He joins Deb Siegel who has been an active Sport Captain since March of 2004. Both captains may be reached via email at mailto:IceHockey@gaygameschicago.orgIceHockey@gaygameschicago.org.

Kevin Boyer
Gay Games VII

[ January 13, 2006, 05:50 PM: Message edited by: KevinB ]

In addition to University Center dormitory style housing, participants and visitors to Chicago for Gay Games VII may also choose to stay at the Herman Crown Center, the student residential facility for Roosevelt University. Located in downtown Chicago in the south loop, HCC offers participants rooms with basic cable, high-speed Internet connections, twin beds, dressers, closets, mirrors and optional linen package. These rooms are available for groups of 10 or more and are a low-cost alternative to hotels. Pricing and reservation information is now available online.

Kevin Boyer
Gay Games VII

The January issue of "Pride and Spirit," the newsletter of the 2006 Gay Games, is now out. It can be Viewed Online.

World Renowned movement artist Michael Schwandt has been selected to choreograph the 2006 Gay Games Closing Ceremony scheduled for 22 July 2006 at Chicago's historic Wrigley Field. Schwandt's selection completes the Ceremonies Creative Team that is led by New York's Kile Ozier. Ozier is perhaps most well-known as the producer of the ceremonies at the 1994 New York Gay Games, including the closing ceremony at Yankee Stadium, acknowledged as perhaps the most inspiring of Gay Games closing ceremonies to date ...

... at least until 22 July in Chicago at Wrigley Field

Kevin Boyer
Gay Games VII

Save the Date - February 5, 2006
Outsports Super Bowl Fans in Chicago - you're invited!

More than a dozen of the Chicago area’s top gay/lesbian-friendly bars and clubs are working together to support the July 2006 Chicago Gay Games on game day. The Super Bowl will be broadcast live from Detroit Sunday, February. 5, 2006 on ABC (Game time 5 pm). Watch the game at participating bars and clubs. Join with other fans and make an optional Gay Games Chicago donation at the door. All who donate get a special edition Gay Games dog tag!

All participating bars are Gay Games sponsors and all are in Chicago unless otherwise noted.

• @mosphere, 5335 N. Clark;
• 3160 (formerly the Annex 3), 3160 N. Clark;
• Bobby Love's, 3729 N. Halsted;
• Buck's, 3439 N. Halsted;
• Charlie's Chicago, 3726 N. Broadway;
• Chicago Eagle, 5015 N. Clark;
• Crew Bar & Grill, 4804 N. Broadway;
• Hunters, 1932 E. Higgins (Elk Grove Village);
• Nutbush City Limits, 7201 Franklin (Forest Park);
• Spin, Halsted & Belmont;
• Star Gaze, 5419 N. Clark;
• T's Restaurant & Bar, 5025 N. Clark;
• Temptations, 10235 W. Grand (Franklin Park); and
• Touché, 6412 N. Clark.

As always, details available at www.GayGamesChicago.org.

Kevin Boyer
Gay Games VII

[ January 20, 2006, 01:20 PM: Message edited by: KevinB ]

Welcome aboard to the Chicago Sun-Times, a new Gay Games VII Global Sponsor. Their sponsorship includes a contribution of more than $100,000 in advertising to support local visibility. The Chicago Sun-Times is one of Chicago's two large daily newspapers.

Excellent sports coverage is one of their claims to fame. You might also remember them recently in the news ... the building in which they were located for years and years is now a hole in the ground - it's the site of the new Chicago Trump Tower being overseen by Bill Ransic, the first winner of Trump's Apprentice show.

One question of note.

What is the status of the HIV waver for the Gay Games?

[ January 26, 2006, 10:57 PM: Message edited by: DonVancouver ]

Please note that this entry has been left as original as it was a response to the previous post by DonVancouver. He had originally tried to connect some nasty and illogical dots and, when called on it, has removed that part of his post. Sorry if this is confusing. Feels to Orwellian to alter it!

Ken


Don,

What does this have to do with the Gay Games?

Is there anyone out there that reads this board that is not aware of the policies of the Bush White House?

Are you suggesting that our recent election now makes Canada suspect because we have our version of GW in our version of the White House?

Or are you part of what Pat calls the smear campaign?

Shame on you!

Ken

[ February 03, 2006, 09:05 AM: Message edited by: kenmac ]

It's appalling that the Bush White House would vote against ILGA and Landsforeningen for Bosser og Lesbiske. It's annoying but I suppose hardly surprising that someone would immediately think to try and use this against the Gay Games.

The Gay Games VII Basketball tournament has added a day to its schedule. Originally scheduled to go from Sunday to Thursday, July 26 to July 20, the tournament will now go to Friday, July 21. The size of the tournament has necessitated the expansion to 6 days.

You can view the Basketball competition details online.

Kevin Boyer
Gay Games VII

God, that basketball schedule makes me tired. We played 6 days in Sydney and I was completely worn out by Friday. But this will probably be the most competitive basketball tournament in Gay Games history, so it is very exciting. Another perk is that we are playing in the same building as the swimming and diving, between games I look forward to watching the, er, competition. wink

Has the host hotel been changed from Palmer?

I'm only worried because my event is the morning after Opening Ceremonies.

And I want it to be convenient for bballrob to be there.

[ January 26, 2006, 09:03 PM: Message edited by: GatorJamie ]

GatorJamie (and taking the opportunity to give some more details on housing: The two primary hub hotels are still the Palmer House and the Hilton Chicago. Neither have rooms available at present, however. There are a dozen hotels, mostly downtown, that will be hosting athletes. To view availability - visit our Hotels Accommodations page. The link is there to the online booking tool. You'll note that most of the hotels are full, however. If you're still looking for lodging, here are some suggestions:

1. Visit the page above now and book a room at one of the few remaining properties. Seriously. Do it now as other available options 2 months from now are likely to be more expensive.
2. Visit Orbitz.com. I happen to know that they have four hotel room blocks that are available at very competitive rates - including the TraveLodge downtown (admittedly a 2-star property) at less than $100 a night. Orbitz will soon be launching some new air/travel packages also.
3. Contact one of the Official Gay Games Travel Agents, listed on our Travel Support page.
4. If you're on a budget and part of a group, consider other housing options such as Hostels, or Dorms. View details on our Housing Page. Here's a helpful hint - the University Center dorm is BRAND NEW. The facility is very nice. If you can put together a group of 10 or more people and book at the university housing, I think you'd be very happy.

Kevin Boyer
Gay Games VII

[ January 27, 2006, 10:38 AM: Message edited by: KevinB ]

Thank you Kevin!

FYI:
There was a long post dealing with Montreal's efforts that was mistakenly posted here. I moved it and it can be read here.

If you are in Chicago this Friday, February 3, 2006, please join us at a Gay Games Town Hall meeting at 6 pm at the Broadway United Methodist Church, 3344 North Broadway. View Online Listing.

The Town Hall Meeting will feature a presentation by the Gay Games Chicago Staff and Board of Directors followed by an opportunity for members of the community to ask questions and provide feedback. Topics will include status of logistical and financial preparations, how to volunteer, synopsis of the business sponsorship and donors program, and details on how to register as an athlete or artist. The Members of the international Federation of Gay Games will also be present as part of a Site Visit being conducted February 2-5, 2006. Refreshments will be served. All are welcome. There is no charge to attend and no RSVP is required. Parking in this area is limited so travel by mass transit is encouraged. On street metered parking is available and there is a pay two blocks north next to Treasure Island Foods.

This Town Hall Meeting is one in a series that have taken place previously in downtown Chicago and on Chicago’s south side.

Kevin Boyer
Gay Games VII

The Golf competition at Gay Games VII has reached its capacity and registration is now officially closed.

We are in the process of creating a wait list opportunity for golfers who still want to register for the Gay Games. This wait list will be a completed registration form that will only be processed if a golf slot becomes available. The form will be available online or by emailing our Golf Sports Manager, Teresa Adams, at mailto:golf@gaygameschicago.orggolf@gaygameschicago.org.

Kevin Boyer
Gay Games VII

Looks like all of you guys are safe now wink

Kevin,

How is triathlon registration going?

Will there eventually be a posted list of participants?

GatorJamie: Triathlon registration is very very strong. In fact, I think we may have already exceeded our forecast numbers (forecasts are estimates based upon previous Gay Games and other similar multi-sport events with a track record). Fortunately, in Triathlon we have significant additional capacity.

I don't think you'll see a posted list off individual participants from us in any sport due to privacy concerns. We will likely post teams and geographic affiliation in team sports as we get closer to the Gay Games, but not the individuals.

Kevin

[ February 03, 2006, 06:29 AM: Message edited by: KevinB ]

Thanks, Kevin!

I only asked because it's kindof a custom in the tri community to post participant lists in advance of events. However, I understand that GGVII is not just *any* race.

I appreciate you keeping us posted on what's going on logistically, etc. It's so refreshing to read news of interests to the athletes without getting caught up in the relentless mud-slinging.

Hope to meet you in Chicago.

Thank you for your hard work.

Pretty sure I will be participating in the cycling road race, how is the registration going?

Cannondale Guy: All Gay Games sports are doing well in registrations including both on road and off road cycling. We have sufficient capacity in cycling to be able to expand significantly beyond our forecast registration numbers but we will post details here and on our Cycling pages if the sport is close to full.

GREAT NEWS!!!

A U.S. federal blanket waiver has been approved allowing non-U.S. citizens living with HIV/AIDS to travel to the United States to participate in or attend the Gay Games 2006. The Federation of Gay Games, and Chicago Games, Inc., announced today that the waiver comes with federal approval of Designated Event Status for Gay Games VII set for 15-22 July 2006.

HIV positive participants and attendees of Gay Games VII can now apply for a single entry B-2 travel visa from their local U.S. consulate. The visa, valid 8-28 July 2006, will be issued on a special form instead of being placed permanently in the person’s passport.

The full announcement is available on the Gay Games Chicago website.

Kevin Boyer
Gay Games VII

[ February 06, 2006, 03:47 PM: Message edited by: KevinB ]

This is amazing news, and it seems to be hitting the media all at once as the Chicago Tribune had an article today, and so did many of the gay news sites, and The Advocate has this:

http://www.advocate.com/news_detail_ektid25214.asp

Larry Bruhl of PlanetOut has done an excellent article on the topic available at PlanetOut.com. I think he captures not only the practical benefits, but also the impact on organizations and people if the blanket waiver is not provided.

I'm so proud of all the people who worked so hard to secure the blanket waiver. Dozens of people played a role in the process; government officials, FGG and CGI volunteers and staff and even a couple of corporate lobbyists. The work reflects a commitment throughout the Gay Games movement to being inclusive of those with HIV - from health services, competition details, scholarships and more.

Please help us communicate the good news to your friends outside the USA so they can now comfortably register and plan to participate in the 2006 Chicago Gay Games. They will be welcomed with open arms.

Kevin Boyer
Gay Games VII

This is great news, and it's so much sooner than '94, when New York got their waiver. This will really help our international friends that have been waiting for this - they can start planning now!!

Here is another article on Q-news:

Q-news link

[ February 07, 2006, 03:42 PM: Message edited by: CHIathlete ]

Is there any chance some of the university housing will be opening up for single people? Mine is a not a team sport, and if I wanted to hang around a four star hotel by myself, I'd do so. Whenever I've stayed in University housing it's been great fun.

I completely understand the reasons for making the university housing for groups only, but I must say, it rings my bell. Part of the long-standing sense of oppression single people feel when booking cruises, hotels, and vacations. It goes away when you have a partner and get to pay half-price for your hotel, not to mention the free side benefits...

(Yes, yes, I'm working on scaring up a roomie, but jeez....)

The decision on singles vs. groups for university housing was made by the universities, not us. We've urged them to lower the minimums and so far they have resisted. Perhaps Team Vancouver can help group people together who are coming to Chicago?

There are new hotels now available through Orbitz (linked here) including one near our South Sports Village that is under $100 a night - paired up with one person, that's likely to be as inexpensive as the dorms.

Kevin

A revised schedule has been posted for the Gay Games VII Swimming competition. This schedule includes details on Synchronized Swimming as well as the Open Water Swim and reflects the change in swim venue to the new award-winning short course meter pool at the University of Chicago that is preferred by our partner, International Gay & Lesbian Aquatics.

Water Polo has, as a result, been moved to the University of Illinois/Chicago pool (the former location for the Swimming competition). Diving remains at Northwetsern. The aquatics schedulers are doing their best to schedule Swimming and Water Polo to allow for maximum cross-over for athletes interested in doing both. Both competitions are expected to be quite large so this remains a challenge - but our commitment is always to the experience of the athlete so we will continue to work on this.

Kevin Boyer
Gay Games VII

[ February 10, 2006, 03:35 PM: Message edited by: KevinB ]

The Gay Games VII Ice Hockey competition has been moved to an upgraded facility and has added a day to its schedule to accommodate the larger-than expected registration.

Venue: Ice Hockey will now take place at the American Heartland Ice Arena in Lincolnwood (a neighborhood/suburb mostly surrounded by Chicago near Evanston). American Heartland Ice Arena is an Ice Hockey only facility. Ice will be kept in peak condition throughout the competition. The arena offers multiple locker rooms for competing teams, a pro shop, snack bar and café. Secure storage is available.

Date: The Ice Hockey competition will now take place Sunday, 16 July 2006, through Friday, 21 July 2006.

For more information, visit the Ice Hockey sports pages.

Kevin Boyer
Gay Games VII

Sports & Culture tickets are now on sale to the general public.

Watch for info on Ceremony tickets.

Kevin Boyer
Gay Games VII

We're pretty darned excited to welcome The New York Times as a new Global Sponsor of the Gay Games. Arguably one of the most important media outlets on the planet, The New York Times comes aboard at the Global Silver level.

Kevin Boyer
Gay Games VII

Olympic Diving Champion Greg Louganis has joined the many sports and culture luminaries in support of the Gay Games.

In addition to becoming a new Gay Games Ambassador, Greg Louganis will serve as co-host of "A Night of 100 Champions," a gala to benefit the Chicago 2006 Gay Games. Scheduled for Saturday, 22 April 2006, the event will honor top U.S and international sports legends and top artists at the Cadillac Club at Soldier Field. Greg will also attend the followup event the next morning, "Breakfast with Champions," also at the Cadillac Club where he'll serve on Meet the Champions panel.

This event is going to be extraordinary and, of course, everyone who can get to Chicago is very welcome to attend. Details are on the Gay Games website.

Kevin Boyer
Gay Games VII