Jimmy  Darts

SB Mowing

Pattie Gonia

Little Miss Flint

Kalina Silverman / @makebigtalk on Instagram

Samuel Weidenhofer

Patriotic Kenny Foundation

Ben Saunders - Flawless Cleaning

The Dogist

Peter Bond

Amy Jandrisevits

Ask Uncle Jack

That Good News Girl

Tess Bohne

FowlMouthFarmer

Latonja and Taylor Richardson

Officer Richard Craig

Flavor Flav

John Wolfe

Khloe

<div>Friends, I’m raising funds for my Brother Nyaundi Mangerere in Kenya. On May 5 2026 Nyaundi was diagnosed with stage 2 prostate cancer.  I would ask you to help me raise $1400. For initial costs.

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Standing with Nyaundi in His Cancer Battle

<div>We (Kyle, James and Adam) will be embarking on a 1200 mile walk this summer with a goal of raising funds for vulnerable people and children affected by the conflict in Ukraine.


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<div>Unfortunately, in Ukraine there is very little government or charitable funds available to support peoples needs. It’s heartbreaking to hear that they are suffering because of a lack of the very basic things that we all take for granted. No child should have to go hungry, feel cold or not get the medical treatment they need, but this is the sad reality many of them endure daily.


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<div>Many of these children have been through hell, experienced unimaginable hardship, lost family members and homes. They desperately need your help. We will spend 1 week in Ukraine, distributing aid where its needed most with the help of "Justin Ukraine Aid"


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<div>Justin really is one of a kind, he gave up his business and life in the UK over 10 years ago to support the Ukrainian revolution and has been helping the Ukrainian people tirelessly ever since.


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<div>100% of the funds raised will go towards the people and children affected most by the conflict with the help of Justin Ukraine Aid.

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1200 Mile Walk to Ukraine to support vulnerable people

<div>On October 28th, the West Coast of Jamaica was struck by a catastrophic Category 5 hurricane, leaving behind destruction and devastation across the region. Entire communities, including the heart of Montego Bay, have been severely impacted—homes flattened, businesses destroyed, and infrastructure completely crippled. Our property, located in one of the hardest-hit areas, has suffered extensive damage, and the road to recovery will be long.


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<div>This disaster has shaken not only the physical structures of our island but also the lives of our crew, staff, friends, and families. Many of them have lost their homes and livelihoods, and now, their families are relying on us for help as they look toward rebuilding their future. The damage has been overwhelming, and the need is urgent for everyone.


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<div>We are reaching out for your support—not just for financial help, but for the tools and resources needed to rebuild. Your contributions will fund critical repairs to our homes, our businesses, and essential infrastructure like power lines, and water pipes. We also urgently need tools and equipment for the rebuilding process, from basic construction materials to specialized machinery, to help restore the island’s infrastructure and communities around us.


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<div>Additionally, funds will be used to provide immediate relief—food, clean water, medical supplies—and to support the long-term efforts to rebuild the lives of our friends and families, along with ours. We will help rebuild communities around us. The road to recovery is long, but with your help, we can give hope to those who need it more. Help us, help them.


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<div>Every dollar and every tool donated makes a difference. Together, we can rebuild homes, businesses, and the lives of the people who call Jamaica home. Our staff, crew, and their families are counting on us to help them move forward.


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<div>Please donate today and share this campaign with others who want to offer their support. Your generosity can help bring hope and a fresh start to rebuild.


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<div>Thank you for your support. If you wish to donate tools or any other items please get it touch with Nichole, or Kit directly.


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Come Together, Rebuild Together

<div>Hi all, Matt here, a close friend of James Nicolian, I’m reaching out on his behalf because as you may know, James recently suffered a massive stroke while staying in Agadir, Morocco. It was a terribly frightening and sudden event for them being he’s only 48, and it has left him in need of urgent care.
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<div>James has been admitted to hospital, where doctors confirmed a blood clot in his brain. He’s currently in intensive care, receiving treatment and being monitored closely. The good news is that the clot was caught early, and the medical team are working hard to stabilise him.
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<div>The doctors have explained that the next week will be critical in determining how well James recovers and what his long-term prognosis will be. During this time he needs full medical support, and once stable, he will begin the rehabilitation phase — which may involve physiotherapy, balance work, and long-term medication to reduce the risk of another stroke; let’s hope he gets to this stage, fingers and toes crossed.
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<div>As many of you know, James and Kate are both self-employed, so of course when James is unable to work, there’s no safety net. On top of that, treatment abroad is expensive and insurance doesn’t cover all the costs. The financial pressure is huge, and James needs peace of mind to focus on recovery.
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<div>We’re initially aiming to raise £8,000 to cover:
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<div><strong>How You Can Help</strong>
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<div>Donate whatever you feel able to — every contribution makes a difference.
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<div>Share this campaign with your networks — the wider it reaches, the more chance we have of hitting the
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<div><strong>Thank You</strong>
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<div>On behalf of James, Kate and myseld thank you for reading, sharing, and supporting. Every contribution helps ease the pressure and makes a real difference at this critical time in James’ recovery.
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<div>Please note: no gifts, rewards or promotions are being offered in exchange for donations to this campaign. Not even a tagine..
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Help James "Big J" Nicolian Recover from His Stroke Abroad

<div>Our dear friend <strong>Ted Munat</strong> could use our help. Unfortunately, the cancer Ted overcame back in 2021 has recurred, and he’s back in treatment. While Ted does have health insurance, the portions of his medical bills the insurance doesn’t cover have quickly escalated into thousands of dollars. <strong>We’re raising money to help him cover these costs.</strong>

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<div>Some might remember that Ted was diagnosed with stomach cancer in May of 2021. After multiple rounds of chemotherapy and major surgery to remove most of his stomach and esophagus, he was declared cancer-free. He lived this way for over three years, but then it suddenly came back, this time in his lungs.

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<div>Ted is now undergoing more rounds of chemotherapy, along with infusions of a powerful targeted medication. Both courses of treatment bring with them intense side effects, meaning Ted needs to take time off work during each round of treatment to rest and recover.

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<div>Your contribution will help Ted stay out of debt and also go a long way towards easing his stress during this time. Thank you so much for your support!

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Donate to Ease Ted Munat's Cancer Fight (Again!)

<div>Hi friends, industry fam, and beloved community,

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<div>Over the past month, our lives have changed dramatically. Chris was suddenly hospitalized after multiple ER visits and a long stretch of unexplained, immobilizing pain. It took three emergency room trips, countless scans, and several specialists before doctors finally identified the problem. Chris underwent emergency surgery and was hospitalized for several days. It was a frightening, overwhelming experience. Navigating the medical system as a trans person comes with additional challenges: miscommunication, dismissal, and systemic bias delayed his diagnosis and added trauma to an already vulnerable moment.

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<div>Thankfully, Chris is now on the path to healing. We’re incredibly grateful for the compassionate specialists who eventually stepped in and took amazing care of him. But as many of you know, the cost of medical care (even with insurance) is staggering. Because Chris is a freelancer, he hasn’t been able to work during his recovery. I (Ash, his wife) also had to take time off to care for him, which added even more financial strain. Between hospital bills, follow-up care, and everyday living expenses, we’re in over our heads.

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<li>Basic living costs while Chris heals and gradually returns to work

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<div>If you know Chris, you know he’s always the first to show up for others. Whether organizing fundraisers for fellow industry folx, raising money for the queer community, or using his platform to advocate for those in need, Chris shows up. Now, we’re asking our community to show up for him. We wouldn’t be doing this if it wasn’t necessary. We don’t have generational wealth or a financial safety net to fall back on. It’s just the two of us, doing everything we can to stay afloat.

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<div>If you're able, any amount helps, whether it’s $5 or just sharing this link. Your generosity will help us keep going. Your support, in any form, means more than we can say. Thank you for showing up for us the way Chris has always shown up for so many.

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<div>With love and gratitude,

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<div>Ash

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Chris's Medical Fund: Urgent Community Call

<div>As you can imagine, learning to fly and achieving your pilot's license is not a cheap endeavor. I've started this fundraiser and <strong>I am asking for your help</strong>. Your donations will go directly to my flight school tuition and supplies.
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<div>I've always had a love of aviation since I was a young child, and the fact that I'm actually up in the air flying a Piper Warrior is the most incredible feeling. I do plan to attend college to study aviation, but I also want to achieve my private pilot's license to get a head start.
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<div>I hope you are ready to board, please find your seats, securely fasten your seat belts and hit that DONATE Button and SHARE ! .
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<div>I can't wait for this journey as I become a licensed pilot. I'll share photos and videos along the way so you can share in the experience.
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<div>Thank you so much for your support. I'm really excited to fly to new heights in my life with your help....
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<div>CLICK HERE to Watch a <a href="https://vimeo.com/1050974529" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Piper Warrior Takeoff - Jan 2025</a>
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Help Fuel Cian's Aviation Dream

<div>As many of you know, last September the global bartending community lost just not an icon, but a mentor and a friend.
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<div>Murray Stenson was to bartending what Miles Davis was to jazz--a master. From his photographic memory or his encyclopedic knowledge of obscure, vintage cocktails, to his speed, his graciousness, his laugh and his hospitality, Murray was simply the best there was at what he did.
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<div>He was such a gift to Seattle that we felt Seattle should give him a proper sendoff. He was so gracious to all of us that it seemed only fitting to offer our last hospitality to him.
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<div>With that, the Chihuly Garden and Glass Museum has graciously offered space, largely at their expense, to let us bid farewell to our friend, and to celebrate his life, which will be held on Monday, January 29 from 5 - 11pm.
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<div>However, there are some expenses still to cover.
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<div>Please support this GoFundMe to cover any additional expenses not already being donated.
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<div>First and foremost: Gratuity to the staff (Murray would approve)
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<div>Any additional donations past $10k will go towards a Scholarship for bartenders in Murray's name (TBA).
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<div>Thank you for your time, and for your donation.
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A Celebration of Life for Murray Stenson

Our beloved Oscar Leon was hit by an Art Bus while riding his bike down Central Ave. on Tuesday evening. He is currently in the trauma unit in critical but stable condition. He suffered major injuries to his organs and broke several bones including his jaw, ribs, pelvis, femur, clavicle and spine. He has had surgery to repair his femur, hip and pelvis however the surgery to repair his jaw has been postponed until he is stronger and more responsive. The road to recovery will be lengthy and difficult and Jocelyn and his daughters need our love and support at this time. We are grateful for donations to help general family care while Oscar is on his long recovery journey. There are bills that won’t be covered by health insurance and living expenses that will pile up quickly for his family. We appreciate your help reliving this pressure so the focus can be on getting Oscar back to playing with his girls and loving his family and community.

Oscar Leon bike accident fund

<div>Paul Tanguay was a vibrant and beautiful human being. He lived and loved passionately and brought joyful energy with him wherever he went. Paul had a gigantic personality, an infectious laugh and a thoughtful, curious and compassionate soul. He gave so much of himself to his family, his friends and his work. Paul was one of the best of the best. His death marks an incredible loss to all those that knew him personally.

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<div>Paul’s passing also represents a massive blow to the hospitality industry.

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<div>Over the course of a 35 year career, Paul opened more restaurants, educated, influenced and mentored more future hospitality pros, and developed more proven systems than nearly anyone who comes to mind. He had an amazing palate, a keen eye for aesthetic and the ability to inspire and draw the very best out of people on his teams.

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<div>He was driven by a passion to make the industry better for those in it and to provide a greater eating and drinking experience for all guests, and he never did any of it for glory or recognition. He loved his work, and he loved the people who worked with him.

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<div>Paul's family needs our assistance.

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<div>The Tanguay family has struggled financially over the past several years. Paul's death was sudden, and, like so many others in the food and beverage industry, he did not have life insurance or any funds set up for his family.

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<div>Paul is survived by his wife, Lissette and his two amazingly vibrant and beautiful daughters, Avery and Kay.

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<div>They need our help now, to pay for bills and expenses, and to provide a foundation for their futures.

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<div>If you were lucky enough to know Paul, then you know how generous he was. Please be as generous as you can be to help ensure that his family continues to thrive.

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<div>I was fortunate enough to call Paul my business partner for 10 years, and I was lucky enough to call him my friend. 
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<div>All funds donated will benefit Paul’s  children and immediate family. I will receive the funds on their behalf and transfer to his sister, Patricia Tanguay. 
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Paul Tanguay Family Fund

<strong>Striving toward stability after losing his leg to vascular disease</strong><br /><br />As many of you know, Richard has been dealing with some health issues over the course of the last month.  For personal reasons, he's been somewhat vague about the details of his diagnosis until now.<br /><br />In late November, Richard was admitted to the hospital, via the ER, with severe vascular disease which had led to the development of severe blot clotting near his heart, abdomen, and in his legs.  Fortunately, the worst of the most dangerous clots were detected early enough that they didn't develop into any major side effects.  However, due to some confusion Richard was discharged before undergoing surgery with no clear explanation as to what the treatment plan would be going forward.<br /><br />On December 15th, after about two weeks of medical limbo and severe pain he managed to get in touch with the vascular department and schedule an appointment.  After taking a look at the deterioration in Richard's foot, the surgeon informed him of the severity of his condition and had him re-admitted immediately. <br /><br />The vascular surgeon explained that the clot just below is heart, in his aorta, had caused blockage through the descending artery and ultimately resulted in a deep vein thrombosis (DVT) behind his left knee, which is what caused the damage to his foot.<br /><br />On December 17th he underwent surgery to remove the blockage (clots) and place stents.  After post-op observation of his foot, the surgeon determined that a second surgery to remove the lower part of Richard's left leg would be necessary.<br /><br />On December 23rd he underwent the second surgery to remove his lower left leg, 5 inches below knee.  He's currently in recovery at Truman Hospital Hill.<br /><br /><br />In the coming days and weeks, Richard will be transitioning from the hospital back to his apartment.  He's been in contact with a few folks and explained some of the logistics, so here they are.<br /><br />- Medical costs will include <br />   <strong>* ER visit and admission in November</strong><br /><strong>   * His second appointment with the vascular surgeon and readmission on Dec               15th</strong><br /><strong>   * Two surgeries - one to remove clots/apply stents - the second for the                               amputation</strong><br /><strong>   * 14 days in the hospital (Dec 15 - Dec 30) after re-admission</strong><br /><strong>   * Physical Therapy (ongoing)</strong><br /><strong>   * Maintenance Medications</strong><br /><strong>   * Finding a suitable prosthetic</strong><br /><br />- Finding a new 1st floor apartment (his current apartment is on the 3rd floor with the scariest outdoor staircase in Kansas City)<br />  <strong>* Costs to break his current lease</strong><br /><strong>  * Deposit for new place</strong><br /><strong>  * Moving costs</strong><br /><br />In addition to these new expenses, Richard will be unable to work until he can walk with a new prosthesis, so just basic living expenses are now a thing as well.<br /><br />So that's what happened and what will be happening.<br /><br />For those that can afford it, donate what you can.  If money is tight, please spread the word and share this on your social media feeds.  If you know Richard personally and can offer any other type of assistance (meal train, connections to services related to prosthetics/therapy, etc.) - please reach out.<br /><br />Help our friend.  Thank you.

Richard needs our help

Whisky geeks can fight about a lot of things, but one of the most universally loved bright spots of whiskey culture today is the <a href="https://www.instagram.com/scotch_trooper/?hl=en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Scotch Trooper</a>  instagram account—also known as the perfect blend of whisky and Star Wars. <br /><br />The photographer-genius behind it all, Brett Ferencz, started the account in 2014, when he began staging elaborate photos with Star Wars action figures interacting with the whiskeys they love.<br /><br /><img src="https://d2g8igdw686xgo.cloudfront.net/49721920_1594994266562420_r.jpeg" alt="49721920_1594994266562420_r.jpeg" width="100%" media_type="3" /><br />In a community where everyone seems to brag about having the latest releases, Brett's work is funny and creative—and a beloved break from the expected.<br /><br /><img src="https://d2g8igdw686xgo.cloudfront.net/49721920_1594994404109771_r.jpeg" alt="49721920_1594994404109771_r.jpeg" width="100%" media_type="3" /><br />But within the whiskey community, Brett's presence has had impact well beyond the reach of his photos. He's become everyone's favorite face to see at gatherings. It's been fun for so many of us to watch him work, but getting to know him and share a dram has been the real joy.<br /><br /><img src="https://d2g8igdw686xgo.cloudfront.net/49721920_1594996000989274_r.jpeg" width="100%" media_type="3" alt="49721920_1594996000989274_r.jpeg" /><br /><br />A couple months ago, Brett was admitted to the ER with abdominal pain, and after a few weeks of scans and tests, he woke from an endoscopy to the dreaded words “it’s cancer.” <br /><br />At 41, Brett was diagnosed with Pancreatic Cancer, and began an intensive round of treatments. So far he has weathered three rounds of chemo, and has two more to go before surgery can be scheduled (after that comes more chemo). <br /><br />Pancreatic cancer is rarely caught in its earlier stages, and is often only detected once it has begun to spread to other organs. They seem to have caught it early, but this is a crucial time in his treatment, and right now Brett needs the help of every Star Wars fan and whisk(e)y lover that ever got a smile out of his work.<br /><br /><img src="https://d2g8igdw686xgo.cloudfront.net/49721920_1594995924430875_r.jpeg" width="100%" media_type="3" alt="49721920_1594995924430875_r.jpeg" /><br />Brett has a long road ahead, and in this crucial and draining treatment time, he's unable to keep up with the energy needs of producing work as a freelancer and consultant. We're raising money to help pay for treatment and keep him financially afloat while he's going through treatment, so he can focus on getting well, and getting back to making things that bring us all joy.<br /><br /><img src="https://d2g8igdw686xgo.cloudfront.net/49721920_1594996265319350_r.jpeg" width="100%" media_type="3" alt="49721920_1594996265319350_r.jpeg" />

Help Scotch Trooper Pay For  Cancer Treatment

Alexis was in a terrible car accident Saturday, March 16, 2019.  Alexis has been recently overextending herself and was leaving a late shift from a bar in the South Suburbs of Chicago.  She fell asleep behind the wheel on the drive home due to pure exhaustion. <br /><br />She sustained a broken jaw and as a result her mouth is wired shut. She also has a broken femur, ankle, thumb and ring finger all on her right side. All of her surgeries went well and the healing begins. She will have a long road to recovery. Alexis won’t be able to work for at least a projected period of 3 - 6 months. <br /><br />With that said, we are asking for help to cover her expenses during this extended recovery period.  Any donation would be most helpful! Alexis has been such a light and a blessing to other people, it is our hope that it can be returned to her during this time. We thank you in advance ♥️✨

Help for Alexis Brown

On Wednesday, February 27, 2019, Krzysztof Von Dopek courageously lost his long-fought battle with cancer, at the young age of 37.  Kris, an only child of Jan and Grace Dopek, was diagnosed with squamous cell carcinoma in early 2016.  After successful treatment in Boston, Kris returned home to Chicago in mid-2016 under close observation, but unfortunately symptoms re-appeared in late-2018.  Kris was re-diagnosed with cancer in January 2019, which rapidly spread.  This campaign is being created to help reimburse Kris’ parents for the insurmountable costs associated with Kris’ cancer treatment, and to memorialize Kris in the most loving and fitting way.  Losing a child is something that no parent can prepare for, and no parent should have to face.  All proceeds will first benefit the incurred medical expenses and memorial costs, with remaining funds being directly contributed to WickerICE, a community-funded outdoor ice-skating rink in Chicago’s Wicker Park.<br /><br /><br />For those who have never been honored to have met Kris, he was a gentle giant.  Standing at 6’7”, Kris had a humble demeanor, and welcomed everyone with an open heart, goodwill, and compassion.  Kris had a gentle and selfless approach to life, and his altruism was genuine and sincere – offering help to those in need, whenever possible.<br />Kris was a staple in Chicago’s food and beverage scene, having worked at numerous restaurants and cocktail lounges where he quickly became known for his imaginative and traditionally-inspired cocktails.  In Kris’ final years, he was honored to have served as Hendrick’s Gin Brand Ambassador for William Grant &amp; Sons, and as Macallan Brand Ambassador for Edrington.<br />Always active in local charity events, Kris most notably played a key role in assisting with the foundation of WickerICE, which hosts numerous events, including skate classes for children and young adults.  Other charitable organizations that Kris was a part of were Toys for Tots, One Warm Coat, and the Greater Chicago Food Depository.<br />Kris was an avid hockey player, and he had an unmatched adoration for his beloved Chicago Blackhawks.  Fittingly, on the day of Kris’ passing, the Chicago Blackhawks honored Kris with a memorial announcement during the telecast of that evening’s game.<br />A frequent traveler, Kris was fluent in many languages, including English, Polish, and German.  One of Kris’ last wishes was to visit Nepal, but in the end, Kris was unable to make that journey.<br />The love, strength, and courage that Kris displayed during his relentless fight is something that will live on forever.<br />Become part of Kris’ legacy by donating whatever you can afford - no donation is too small.  We encourage you to share this GoFundMe campaign with friends and family, and across all social media platforms.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.gofundme.com/6y9gtlc" target="_blank" class="" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">https://www.gofundme.com/6y9gtlc</a><br /><br />Thank you for your love and support!

Kris Von Dopek’s Memorial Fundraiser

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our brother, John Lermayer.  Father, friend, pioneer and visionary.  John passed peacefully in his sleep.  He is survived by his son, Radek Lermayer, his world and his whole heart.  All funds will be given to aid the care and future of Radek.  His passion and vision will continue....<br />#Pursuehappiness

John Lermayer's son, Radek Lermayer

As most of you already know, Zakk was shot while at his bartending job last night. All for enforcing the law as a bartender, as all of us in the service industry do. He has come out of surgery and is now resting. <br /><br />If you know Zakk personally, you know what a heart of gold he has. He works multiple jobs to support himself and always with a smile. I wanted to start a campaign to help take some of the financial burden off of our boy from this tragic incident. As like so many of us, he does not have health insurance. So the bills are already piling up.<br /><br />Thankfully, Zakk will be okay and we got to see him at the hospital this morning. <br /><br />Any donation helps. Birmingham, pull together for one of the good guys. Besides medical bills, he will be out of work and in recovery for a good while. I know most of us are tight with bills and life is expensive, but anything can help.

Help For Zakk Earle

KVD is a great friend! He's been there for us in the past and now it's time to be there for him. He has done a lot for the community such as the Wicker Park ice skating rink and participated in charities such as Toys for Tots, One Warm Coat and the Greater Chicago Food Depository. Kris has a heart of gold and is always willing to help when in need- It's time to pay it forward and help him. <br /><br /> KVD has a squamous cell carcinoma tumor in his leg. Treatment will consist of external beam radiation and brachytherapy with a potential for chemo therapy as well.  He found the best doctors in Boston and now he will be living there for the next 7 weeks to undergo therapy. <br /><br /> Regardless of the situation, KVD's spirits are high, thanks to everyone’s support and kind words. <br /> The funds will help Kris with medical bills and housing in Boston during his treatment. Kris has been out of work (unemployed) since January and these bills are no joke!<br /><br /> I think I can speak for everyone that we cannot wait for KVD to get back to his over talkative- story telling -hockey loving self.<br /><br /> Get well soon Kris, we love ya! <br /> #FUCKCANCER

Kris Dopek's Kick cancer's Ass fund

Lost Lake, this year's Imbibe Magazine Cocktail Bar of the Year and a 2015 Spirited Award nominee for Best New American Cocktail Bar, closed early Monday morning due to an electrical fire. <br /><br /> An industry darling, not only because of their dancing banana dolphins jumping from whimsical tiki mugs, but because of the unstoppable team that will no doubt stand by each other through this tumultuous time. While local bars and restaurants have been so generous and kind to offer shifts for the staff while the bar is being repaired, it is the beginning of the month, rent is due, and no one has worked for nearly a week. <br /><br /> The kitchen and front entrance were completely incinerated and the bar sustained smoke damage while all the r(h)um was contaminated and had to be discarded. The whole staff has been working hard to clean up the mess but it looks like the bar won't open for at least a few weeks with no reopening date in sight for the kitchen. <br /><br /> $1 or $5 or $10 will help these bartenders, barbacks, dishwashers, cooks, cashiers, and hostesses try and make ends meet while their beloved baby is nursed back to health.

Lost Lake Employee Aid

<p>My name is Jabriel Donohue, but the important one here is the guy on my right, Aegon.  He's my best friend.</p>
<p>It's been a rough couple months for the both of us but life took an upswing recently when I decided to move from Portland to Seattle.  Work has been plentiful and the city is welcoming me with open arms but I've been doing the move on a shoestring and so Aegon was planning to stay at a kennel while I got landed.  Once I had a good home secured next month I was going to swoop him up and bring him north to join me.  </p>
<p>Unfortunately, Aegon is a trouble maker of epic proportions and he surprised one of the kennel attendants by vaulting a fence and looking to mix it up with a group of horses, who gave him a kick for his troubles.  Anybody who has been or seen someone kicked by a horse knows how bad this can be, so I count us lucky that he is alive.</p>
<p>His back leg is badly broken.  He has a tibial fracture, his acl and mcl are damaged and one of the bones in the knee region has been sheared off from the force of the kick.  Aegon is going to need pretty intense orthoscopic surgery or he is going to lose his leg.  Not to mention that with me still getting settled up north, I don't have a reliable place for him to stay while he recovers.  His mom, Niki, who also loves him dearly, also has a limited ability to watch him because of her house and schedule and he's going to need a lot of care and observation post surgery, so the best and almost only option in the long term is to board him in a good place where he can have his meds administered on a good schedule and professionals can keep an eye on him. </p>
<p>I simply don't have the money to cover these costs right now and the only immediate and inexpensive option I know is to surrender him to the Oregon Humane Society, where Niki and I got him.  If that happens they will make their own judgements about the surgery, potentially amputate anyway and after that, put him back up for adoption where he is not guaranteed to go to a reliable home that can handle a guy of his enthusiasm.</p>
<p>The good news is that I have insurance that will take a significant chunk of the actual surgery costs.  The bad news is that it only covers up to a certain amount and it does not cover boarding, which can run around $50 a day, so even after the surgery there is still going to be the long term expenses of boarding and care, which insurance does not cover.  <br /><br />I'm fundamentally uncomfortable asking strangers for money but in this case I'm not asking it for me, I'm asking for my friend.  He's only three years old, he has an amazing and full life ahead of him and so much joy to experience.  So I'm asking you guys to help make sure he can do that, and do it fully.  </p>

Aegon and Jabriel Need Your Help

I had the priviledge of being an aunt to Michael Alexander Hill or Alex as I called him since he made this world a brighter place twenty one years ago.  He was a brilliant and determined young child. As he grew he had interest in cooking, politics, and travel. He made friends where ever he went and had a deep caring nature. <br /><br />In the last year he left his home state of South Carolina and moved to Houston, Texas. While being in Houston he found a "family" among his friends. He loved his new life in the big city and had begun ice skating with a trainer and cherished being able to serve others as a fine dining waiter. <br /><br />On January 8th Alex left this world in a tragic way by being struck by a speeding car while legally walking through a cross walk in Houston, Texas. <br /><br />Due to the unexpected, grievous and quick nature of his passing, his grandmother is going into profound debt in order to provide a respectful service to honor Alex's life.<br />His parents lack the resources to assist in his burial. <br /><br />We would like to start raising the funds right away. This fundraising effort is near to my heart, as Alex left a gift of kindness and love to those around him. I want his life to be remembered in a postive light and not as a burden on my family. <br /><br />Thank you for taking the time to read my request. Please pray for all of his family and friends as we get use to life without him.

Alex~his sweet soul has wings

Medical Bills are expensive!!! Let's raise some $$$ for a Gal who is always the first to donate her time and effort to any and all charitble endevours.<strong>  Jenn Tosatto</strong>

#Shots4Jenn

Today, Christmas morning, my daughter in SF was awakened by the smoke detector. The house next door was engulfed in flames and it had spread to the house she lives in. Luckily she lives on the lower floor.  Although the upper level of the house she lives in was destroyed, most of her possessions suffer smoke and water damage. I'm halfway across the country and can't help her, and she can't afford to replace her things, so I'm trying to help defray her costs.

Sarah's Christmas morning fire