LYRIC OPERA’S ALWAYS-ELEGANT OPENING NIGHT GALA

PLUS RH CHICAGO'S MAGICAL GOLD COAST OPENING; GOODMAN THEATRE'S BIG.BOLD.BRILLIANT NIGHT; THEASTER'S REBUILD KICK-OFF PARTY; MCA'S VERNISSAGE; LAUGH FACTORY'S "FUNNIEST COPS"; COMPASSION, FASHION & COCKTAILS: CS MAG'S WOMEN OF STYLE LUNCHEON; IMERMAN'S WINGS OF HOPE GALA; PEOPLE ON THE MOVE; QUINTIN & PRIMO; A NEW PARTY FOR STEPPENWOLF; PARADE OF PUPS FOR ORPHANS OF THE STORM; FRIENDS OF CONSERVATION GALA; 51ST CHICAGO INTERNATIONAL FILM FEST KICK-OFF PARTY; F.A.M.E. FUNDRAISER AT KLAIRMONT; LURIE'S CHAMPIONS FOR CHILDREN'S GALA; GIORDANO'S "DANCING WITH THE GIORDANO STARS"; FUN-FILLED VIDEOS AND SO MUCH MORE!

Renée Fleming and Tim Jessell

Renée Fleming and Tim Jessell

The Women's Board of the world-renowned Lyric Opera of Chicago, led by event co-chairs Mrs. Nancy Crown and Mrs. Caryn Harris, hosted the 61st annual Opening Night Gala on September 26. The evening began with red carpet arrivals outside the Civic Opera House before more than 3000 guests entered the theatre to enjoy Mozart's comic masterpiece, "The Marriage of Figaro."

Barbara Gaines

Barbara Gaines

Immediately following the performance, guests were whisked to the Hilton Chicago for the second portion of the black-tie evening, the grand Opera Ball. Here, nearly 500 guests ascended a majestic staircase to the Normandie Lounge for a cocktail reception  where they mingled with fellow opera enthusiasts. Opera stars in attendance included Adam Plachetka, Christiane

Chicago Bulls player Nikola Mirotic and his wife Nina

Chicago Bulls player Nikola Mirotic and his wife Nina

Karg, Amanda Majeski, Luca Pisaroni, Rachel Frenkel and conductor Henrik Nanasi. A dinner followed in the Grand Ballroom where the elegant decor brought gasps from the crowd. Lyric Opera president/CEO David Ormesher welcomed guests and thanked the evening's sponsors. Lyric's general

Nancy Crown and Caryn Harris

Nancy Crown and Caryn Harris

director Anthony Freud presented the evening's opera stars to the sound of heralding trumpets as part of the traditional Grand March. Dinner and dancing followed with music provided by the Stu Hirsh Orchestra. Notables in the crowd included Renee

Opera star Eric Owens

Opera star Eric Owens

Fleming, Nikola Mirotic (Chicago Bulls), Sir Andrew and Lady Gianna Davis, Anthony Freud, Sheila and David Ormesher, Nancy and Steven Crown, Caryn and King Harris, Mimi and Todd Mitchell, Renee and Lester Crown, Anne and Christopher Reyes, Shirley and Patrick Ryan, Nancy and Scott Santi, Honorable Corinne and Paul Wood,

Pat and Shirley Ryan and Sir Andrew Davis

Pat and Shirley Ryan and Sir Andrew Davis

Jana and Eric Schreuder, Maria Green and Greg Lewis, Susan and Richard Kiphart, Mamie and Greg Case, Lois and Steve Eisen, Don

Liza Yntema and Mark Ferguson

Liza Yntema and Mark Ferguson

Weaver, Ambassador Ivo Daalder, Honorable Frank Easterbrook, Ambassador Louis Susman and Honorable Diane Wood. The event raised more than $1 million for Lyric programming. Congrats to The Lyric, a true Chicago treasure!


Bella Hunter, RH Chairman/CEO Gary Friedman, Sophia Bush and Christina Hendricks

Bella Hunter, RH Chairman/CEO Gary Friedman, Sophia Bush and Christina Hendricks

More than 1000 influencers from the worlds of architecture, design, entertainment and art gathered to celebrate the grand (private) opening of RH Chicago, The Gallery at The Three Arts Club, 1300 N. Dearborn,on Wednesday September 30.  The line snaked around the block behind velvet ropes but moved quickly into the grand entrance of the

Line snaking around the corner for opening event

Line snaking around the corner for opening event

Three Arts Club that has been magically transformed by Restoration Hardware chairman/CEO Gary Friedman and company. Friedman was on hand with the gorgeous Bella Hunter to meet and

Bill and Giuliana Rancic

Bill and Giuliana Rancic

greet guests and accept kudos for this brilliant addition to the Gold Coast. The event featured special live performances by RH Music artist Edei and internationally renowned DJs Brendan Fallis and Chris Malinchak. Celebrity guests in attendance included Sophia Bush, Giuliana and Bill Rancic and Madmen's Christina Hendricks. Guests enjoyed gourmet bites by celebrated restaurateur

DJ Chris Malinchak and RH Chairman/CEO Gary Friedman

DJ Chris Malinchak and RH Chairman/CEO Gary Friedman

Brendan Sodikoff, fresh bellinis and artisanal wines. Chicago’s landmark Three Arts Club has been re-imagined as a first-of-its-kind retail concept with a seamlessly integrated hospitality experience in partnership with

Edie performs

Edie performs

Sodikoff, as well as the first physical representations of the brand’s newest business concepts, RH Modern and RH TEEN. RH Chicago spans five stories and 70,000 total square feet with dramatic artistic installations featuring never-before-seen luxury home furnishings

Rooftop park and conservatory

Rooftop park and conservatory

collections from renowned designers and artisans across the globe layered with the club’s historic fountains, fireplaces, mosaics and frescoes—all of which have been carefully preserved and restored.  The space, along with its

RH Chairman/CEO Gary Friedman and Bella Hunter

RH Chairman/CEO Gary Friedman and Bella Hunter

contents, serve as pure eye candy for home decor enthusiasts. There will also be a 3 Arts Club Café in the Grand Courtyard – (which will be functional year round with the addition of a pyramidal glass-and-steel structure), the 3 Arts Club Wine Vault in the loggia, and the 3 Arts Club

Atrium shot

Atrium shot

Pantry. Other highlights of the space include a gorgeous Rooftop Park & Conservatory with panoramic views of the Gold Coast, a house car (!!!) and complimentary valet parking.The event benefited The Art Institute of Chicago, The Joffrey Ballet and the Chicago Children’s Choir. Other guests included Geoffrey Arend, Tom Kehoe, Linda

Christina Hendricks and Sophia Bush

Christina Hendricks and Sophia Bush

Johnson Rice, Victor Skrebneski, Rebecca and Charlie Besser, Heather Farley and Bruce Ingram, Kristina McGrath, Emily Sachs Wong, Neal Zucker, Steve Traxler, Toni and Rick Canada, Michaela Parrillo, Dede Lubeznik, Brian Brownstein, Christine Mallul, Joanna and Grant DePorter, Dennis Minkel, Tarrah Cooper, Kathleen Henson, Rochelle Trotter and Jim Karas.  Welcome RH Chicago, you brighten up the neighborhood! (Photos by Jeff Schear Visuals and Getty Images)


Co-chairs Harry and Marcy Harczak, Julie and Roger Baskes

Co-chairs Harry and Marcy Harczak, Julie and Roger Baskes

Big. Bold. Brilliant.," the theme of Goodman Theatre’s 2015/2016 Season, infused the evening of the Season Opening Celebration on September 21 honoring the company’s Artistic Collective—a group of world-class

Henry Godinez, Chuck Smith, Robert Falls, Steve Scott, Brian Dennehy, Rebecca Gilman and Henry Wishcamper.

Henry Godinez, Chuck Smith, Robert Falls, Steve Scott, Brian Dennehy, Rebecca Gilman and Henry Wishcamper.

artists who call the Goodman their creative home. Individually and collectively, these artists’ contributions to the Goodman provide a diverse scope of theatrical style and vision. This Artistic Collective includes

Board Chair Joan Clifford, Ayad Ahktar and Bob Clifford

Board Chair Joan Clifford, Ayad Ahktar and Bob Clifford

Robert Falls, Brian Dennehy, Rebecca Gilman, Henry Godinez, Steve Scott, Chuck Smith, Regina Taylor, Henry Wishcamper and Mary Zimmerman. On this night, 300 guests gathered at the Standard Club, where they enjoyed cocktails

 

Rishad and Rekha Tobaccowala with Women’s Board President/Trustee Swati Mehta

Rishad and Rekha Tobaccowala with Women’s Board President/Trustee Swati Mehta

and a three-course dinner before proceeding to Goodman’s 856-seat Albert Theatre for the sold-out opening night performance of Disgraced, Ayad Akhtar’s Pulitzer Prize-winning “daring…hard-hitting image from http://s3.amazonaws.com/hires.aviary.com/k/mr6i2hifk4wxt1dp/15100416/b041680a-9c53-406f-90e5-83a9e98a247c.pngdrama” (Chicago Tribune) that was directed by Kimberly Senior.  After the show, guests continued the celebration at an after-party at River Roast hosted by Chicago's Levy

Nisi Sturgis, Artistic Ass. Brian Dennehy and J. Anthony Crane

Nisi Sturgis, Artistic Ass. Brian Dennehy and J. Anthony Crane

Restaurants and James Beard Award-winning chef Tony Mantuano. “When I became the Artistic Director of the Goodman Theatre nearly three decades ago, I knew that the creation of an artistic vision for a truly great theater could not depend on the ideas and talents of one person alone,” explained Falls to the attendees. “If the Goodman were going to 

John Hart and Carol Prins

John Hart and Carol Prins

be, as I hoped it would, a theater for all of the residents of Chicago, it needed to reflect the enormous diversity of the city in its artistic leadership.”  The first artists invited

Artistic Collective member Chuck Smith and Lydia Diamond.

Artistic Collective member Chuck Smith and Lydia Diamond.

into this group were directors with whom Falls had enjoyed a close creative relationship during his years as artistic director of the Wisdom Bridge Theatre, Frank Galati and Michael Maggio. Within a few years, the group had expanded to include new

Bernard White and Jackie Katzman

Bernard White and Jackie Katzman

voices–directors David Petrarca and Mary Zimmerman–and established talents–Chuck Smith, whose decades of work in Chicago had made him the unofficial dean of the city’s African American theater community, and triple-threat actor/playwright/director Regina Taylor.  Other associates—including actor/educator Cheryl Lynn Bruce and actor/director

Behzad Dabu and J. Anthony Crane

Behzad Dabu and J. Anthony Crane

Harry Lennix—would soon join the Collective, contribute to the evolution of the Goodman’s diverse aesthetic, then move on to pursue careers in other performance arenas, leaving an indelible impact on the distinctive identity of the Goodman. Today’s Artistic Collective is widely regarded by critics, audiences and theater professionals as the most accomplished of its kind in the American theater. Amen to that! (Photos by John Reilly Photography)


Paris Ceramics


Theaster Gates and Ken Stewart

Theaster Gates and Ken Stewart

More than 150 art world influencers, artists, community leaders, philanthropists and cultural leaders gathered on Chicago’s South Side on Saturday, September 19, in celebration of the Rebuild Foundation’s inaugural BUILD/REBUILD Benefit. Established by Theaster Gates Jr. in 2010 and overseen by CEO Ken Stewart, the Rebuild Foundation welcomed guests to a private viewing of the newly restored Stony Island Arts

Desiree Rogers, Frederick Dunson and Linda Johnson Rice

Desiree Rogers, Frederick Dunson and Linda Johnson Rice

Bank, the Foundation’s largest and most ambitious project to date. The evening was hosted by honorary co-chairs Amy Rule and her husband, the Mayor. The host committee of ‘Builders’ included Anita Blanchard, Lisa Yun Lee, Liz and Eric

Cari Sacks and Marilyn Fields

Cari Sacks and Marilyn Fields

Lefkofsky, Sandy Reynolds, Cari and Michael J. Sacks, Chelsea and James Smith, and Chance the Rapper. Attendees enjoyed a cocktail hour that included a private viewing of the new, 17,000 square foot space and inaugural

Sondra and Tony Karman

Sondra and Tony Karman

installation by Portuguese artist Carlos Bunga that premiered to the public on October 3rd as part of the Chicago Architecture Biennial. (This event on Saturday attracted over 1400). Designed by William Gibbons Uffendell and built in 1923, the bank fell into disrepair in the 1980s and remained abandoned until purchased by Theaster Gates and the Foundation in 2012. Newly

Carrie Mae Weems, Jason Moran

Carrie Mae Weems, Jason Moran

restored, the Stony Island Arts Bank will provide a platform for site specific commissions and exhibitions, a venue for artist and scholar residencies and archival collections essential to the history of art,

Michelle Boone and Liz Lefkofsky

Michelle Boone and Liz Lefkofsky

architecture and black culture. Visitors were seated for dinner at tables with pottery created by Gates and treated to the culinary inventions of mk Executive Chef, Erick Williams. Guests enjoyed remarks by CEO Ken Stewart and Artistic Director Gates plus a reading of a personalized

Nick Cave, Marlene Breslow Blitstein, Anne Pasternak, Bob Faust

Nick Cave, Marlene Breslow Blitstein, Anne Pasternak, Bob Faust

letter to the artist by President Obama and First Lady Michelle. An impromptu speech by fellow artist Carrie Mae Weems followed. The evening continued upstairs with musical performances by Meshell Ndegeocello and Jebin Bruni, followed by Jason Moran and

Mike Starn, Anne Pasternak, Okwaui Enwezor

Mike Starn, Anne Pasternak, Okwaui Enwezor

Gates, before dancing the night away to deejay Alan King who led the after-party spinning records from the Stony Island Arts Bank’s collection of the archives of “godfather of house music” Frankie Knuckles. Special guests included artists David Adjaye (architect), Cheryl Lynn Bruce, Nick Cave, Glenn Ligon, Kerry James

Eugenie Tsai, Rujeko Hockley, Hank Willis Thomas

Eugenie Tsai, Rujeko Hockley, Hank Willis Thomas

Marshall, Chris Ofili, Lorna Simpson, Mike Starn, Hank Willis Thomas, and Carrie Mae Weems. U.S. and City Officials in attendance included Michelle T. Boone (Commissioner of the City of Chicago’s Department of Cultural Affairs and Special

Tom McCormick and Janis Kanter

Tom McCormick and Janis Kanter

Events), Penny Pritzker (U.S. Secretary of Commerce Directors and Curators), Ian Alteveer (Associate Curator of Modern and Contemporary Art, Metropolitan Museum of Art), Michael Darling (Chief Curator at MCA Chicago), Okwui Enwezor (Curator of the 56th International Art Exhibition of the Venice Biennale), Thelma Golden (Director of Studio Museum

Adam Hoeflich, MK Pritzker and Darrell Walker

Adam Hoeflich, MK Pritzker and Darrell Walker

of Harlem), Madeleine Grynsztejn (Pritzker Director of MCA Chicago), Sarah Herda (Director of the Graham Foundation and Artistic Director of Chicago Architecture Biennial), Mary Ittelson (Associate Director

Omar Kholeif, Cari Sacks and Michael Darling

Omar Kholeif, Cari Sacks and Michael Darling

at MCA Chicago), Tony Karman (Director of EXPO Chicago), Omar Kholeif (Curator at MCA Chicago), Anne Pasternak (Director of Brooklyn Museum), Jonelle Procope (President and CEO of Apollo Theater Foundation), Eugenie Tsai (Curator of Contemporary Art at Brooklyn Museum) and Hamza Walker (Director of Education and Associate Curator at the Renaissance Society) among many others.


Daniel Buren work at EXPO Chicago Vernissage

Daniel Buren work at EXPO Chicago Vernissage

EXPO CHICAGO and The MCA’s Vernissage welcomed more than 7,000 guests on opening night of this world renowned art fair, now in its 4th year. “I want to extend the deepest thanks and appreciation to Tony Karman and the entire EXPO CHICAGO team

Tony Karman, Michelle Boone, Madeleine Grynsztejn and Mac MacLellan

Tony Karman, Michelle Boone, Madeleine Grynsztejn and Mac MacLellan

for ensuring that Chicago is spoken about in the same sentence as world class art fairs once again and always,” said Michelle T. Boone (Chicago's Commissioner of Public and Cultural Affairs).“Not only has EXPO CHICAGO cemented Chicago’s place as

Bob Faust, Nick Cave, Solange Knowles and Armina Mussa

Bob Faust, Nick Cave, Solange Knowles and Armina Mussa

an international art fair, but Tony has done a tremendous job to connect the fair to the city through numerous collaborations and partnerships with our galleries, museums and cultural institutions extending the reach of EXPO city wide.” EXPO CHICAGO presented artwork from

Naomi Beckwith and Angela Robins

Naomi Beckwith and Angela Robins

140 leading galleries, representing 16 countries and 47 cities from around the world, and included EXPOSURE—a section that afforded younger galleries the opportunity to participate in a major

Tony and Sondra Karman

Tony and Sondra Karman

international art fair. Karman (event founder) then introduced MCA Chicago’s Pritzker Director Madeleine Grynsztejn. “It is in Chicago’s DNA that really magical things happen when the business sector, cultural sector and civic sector of our city join together to support art education, and that is exactly what is happening tonight.” She added,

Larry, Marilyn and Adam Fields

Larry, Marilyn and Adam Fields

“Every penny from tonight goes to education and exhibition programs for students and people of all ages." Karman closed by saying, “This exposition fuels the cultural ecosystem of Chicago." With that, a bottle of Champagne was popped and all rejoiced in a celebratory toast. Immediately

Naomi Reese and Michael Darling

Naomi Reese and Michael Darling

following Vernissage, guests were invited to the official after-party on the Spirit of Chicago boat docked at Navy Pier. Co-produced with CIMMfest and sponsored by The Beaches of Fort Myers and Sanibel, the party kept guests dancing to music by The Cecy Santana Band and DJ Warp with Saraswathi Ranganathan.


Michael Kutza

Michael Kutza

The kick-off party for the 51st Chicago International Film Festival attracted more than 250 friends, filmmakers, sponsors and board members to the Roof of the Godfrey Hotel on September 21. Hosted by media sponsor Dan Uslan of Michigan Avenue Mag

John Lanzendorf and Douglas Van Tress

John Lanzendorf and Douglas Van Tress

and Festival founder Michael Kutza, it was a perfect night for a party under the stars to celebrate the Fest's full schedule announcements and its opening on October 15 running through

Grant Grieshaber, Taylor Masura, Clayton Guse and Melissa Bourdeu

Grant Grieshaber, Taylor Masura, Clayton Guse and Melissa Bourdeu

October 29 at AMC River East 21 Theaters. The event presented a video of highlights of the more than 150 feature films, documentaries and short films that will be shown from over 50 countries. There will be

Vivian Teng

Vivian Teng

world premieres, U.S. premieres as well as meet-and-greets with directors and filmmakers from around the world. Kutza introduced his staff of film programmers, writers and the artist of this year's winning poster

Steven Tobiasz, Jack Newell and Stephanie Dufford

Steven Tobiasz, Jack Newell and Stephanie Dufford

design competition, Tsung-Hui (aka “Mavis”) Kuo-Crary. Kutza pointed out, "This is a directors' Festival, they are our STARS! From the very beginning, 50 years ago, we have been discovering the next, new and great talents in filmmaking from around the world."  Congrats Michael! We can't wait! More Images! (For tickets and more info, click here).


IMG_3949The Laugh Factory Chicago hosted a comedy competition, "Chicago's Funniest Police Officer," on September 26. The event benefited 100 Club of Chicago, an organization that provides support for families of fallen first responders. It was open

The beloved Tom Dreesen emceed

The beloved Tom Dreesen emceed

to all 23 districts and these brave souls participated: Pete Kokonis, Tom and Denny McKenna, Jeff Pacocha, Pat McGrath and Ron Gaines. I judged the competition along with Joe Ahern (100 Club president) and Jamie Masada (Laugh Factory

"Sister" Ron Rufo and Father Brandt

"Sister" Ron Rufo and Father Brandt

founder). Everyone's favorite comedian, Tom Dreesen, served as the emcee and provided real comedy between contestants. LOL!  Father Brandt and Ron Rufo

Keeping the trophy warm for winner Ron Gaines with my Chuck

Keeping the trophy warm for winner Ron Gaines with my Chuck

provided more comedy relief. In the end, the funniest cop standing was Ron Gaines!  Congrats to all the participants and the friends who came out to support them and this great cause.


Randy Hano, CS Mag VP/Associate Publisher introduces Aerin Lauder

Randy Hano, CS Mag VP/Associate Publisher introduces Aerin Lauder

Chicago Social (CS) Magazine hosted a "Woman of Style" luncheon in the elegant Ivy Room at Tree Studios on September 18. Special guest, Aerin Lauder,

Aerin Lauder with Kehoe Designs' Vince Hart

Aerin Lauder with Kehoe Designs' Vince Hart

founder and creative director of AERIN, was honored as CS' inaugural National Woman of Style. Tracy and Joan Clifford, Sarah Vaille and Hayley O'Hara and Tina Weller and Mary Lasky were celebrated as the issue's "Fierce Duos of Style." Randy Hano, CS Mag VP/Associate Publisher, welcomed glam ladies (and a few cute guys) including Shauna

Beautiful luncheon table/beautiful ladies for CS Women of Style event.

Beautiful luncheon table/beautiful ladies for CS Women of Style event.

Montgomery, Toni Canada, Vince Hart, Lesley Prizant Goodman, Sarah Vaile, Deborah Higginbottom, Mercedes Alonzo, Chandler Rollins, Tracy Monahan, Joy Sandler, Julie Latsko, Monika Dixon and Sarah Ryan among many others.  Following Chef Chris Evangelides' delicious luncheon, guests mingled with Aerin and sampled her eponymous line of fragrances and beauty products as well as view chic decor from her new home collection.


Bianca Ellis, Lisa Medalie, Jonny Imerman and Michelle Gallardo

Bianca Ellis, Lisa Medalie, Jonny Imerman and Michelle Gallardo

Imerman Angels presented its 2nd annual Wings of Hope Gala on September 12 at the Ritz-Carlton Chicago. The affair welcomed 320 guests and raised over $300,000 benefiting Imerman Angels’ mission to enable connections that provide one-on-one cancer support among cancer

Jonny Imerman, Dr. Leonidas Platanias and Zoraida Sambolin.

Jonny Imerman, Dr. Leonidas Platanias and Zoraida Sambolin.

fighters, survivors, and caregivers. The formal event began with a welcome reception including cocktails and hors d’oeuvres with

Melissa Pinkney, Erin Leyden (Imerman Angels Dir. of Development)

Melissa Pinkney, Erin Leyden (Imerman Angels Dir. of Development)

entertainment provided by pianist Dave Hedlund. Guests enjoyed a three-course dinner, a live auction conducted by auctioneer David Goodman and a special ceremony celebrating the evening’s award recipients led by the evening’s emcee, cancer survivor and NBC 5's Zoraida Sambolin. The gala honorees included Walgreen Co., who received the Wings

Brad Terry, Khitam Masoud (2-time cancer survivor and Team Imerman Angels Lead Recruiter)

Brad Terry, Khitam Masoud (2-time cancer survivor and Team Imerman Angels Lead Recruiter)

of Hope Award, which recognizes the outstanding efforts of a group or individual who has contributed greatly to the growth and strength of the Imerman Angels mission. Walgreens was recognized for their support and commitment to providing hope, strength and inspiration to their cancer patient and caregiver consumers including

Samantha Feinberg and Shelli Feinberg

Samantha Feinberg and Shelli Feinberg

putting Imerman Angels brochures in the pharmacy section of select stores around Chicagoland. The award was accepted by Richard Ashworth, PharmD, President, Pharmacy and Retail Operations and Nimesh Jhaveri, RPh, Divisional Vice President. Fleet Feet Sports Chicago was awarded the Angel Award for Community Outreach, accepted by Dave Zimmer, CEO and owner Fleet Feet Sports Chicago, co-owner of Chicago Endurance Sports. The Angel Award for Outstanding Medical Service was

John May, Zoraida Sambolin, Nimesh Jhaveri, Richard Ashworth, Jonny Imerman.

John May, Zoraida Sambolin, Nimesh Jhaveri, Richard Ashworth, Jonny Imerman.

awarded to the Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center of Northwestern University. The award was accepted by Leonidas C.

Rochelle Trotter, Katherine Genson and Denise Dayan.

Rochelle Trotter, Katherine Genson and Denise Dayan.

Platanias, MD, PhD, Director of the Lurie Cancer Center. The program included a very special moment where all Imerman Angels' Mentors in attendance were asked to stand and be recognized by all for their dedication to their mentees battling cancer. The evening commenced with dancing to live music Compassion2cfashion26cocktails2015102915courtesy of Dr. Bombay. Love Jonny and all the good he and his organization does for so many!


"Compassion, Fashion & Cocktails" will be held on Thursday, October 29, at The Godfrey Hotel's Urban Roofscape (127 W. Huron) to benefit the Israel Idonije Foundation. The event will feature a runway fashion show featuring designs by Zadig & Voltaire, cocktails, hors d'oeuvres, a wine-tasting with sommelier Jim Bube (Heritage

Melissa Harris

Melissa Harris

Wine Cellars) and a raffle. For tickets and more info, click here!


People on the move! I'll miss Chicago Tribune business columnist Melissa Harris! She's joining Origin Capital Partners as its VP of marketing Nov. 2. Good luck Melissa!  We're also losing Brett Batterson, Auditorium

Brett Batterson and wife Veronica

Brett Batterson and wife Veronica

Theater of Roosevelt University's longtime Executive Director. He has accepted the role of president/CEO of the Memphis Development Foundation (MDF). The foundation operates The Orpheum, consisting of the Orpheum Theatre and the Halloran Centre for

Quintin Primo in Michigan Avenue Magazine

Quintin Primo in Michigan Avenue Magazine

Performing Arts & Education. Good luck and congrats Brett! You and Veronica will be missed!


There's a great article in Michigan Avenue Magazine this month about Quintin Primo, founder Capri Capital and steward for Primo Center for Women and Children, a non-profit founded by his dad.  Click here to read about this amazing guy and all Classico-2015_STD-facebookthe good he and wife Diane are doing in the world.  And I hope you have their upcoming fundraiser, Primo Classico, marked in red on your calendar for October 10.  (For tickets and more info, click here and I hope to see you there!)


The Chicago Humanities Festival (CHF)

CHF executive director Phillip Bahar, Mellody Hobson and Walter Isaacson.

CHF executive director Phillip Bahar, Mellody Hobson and Walter Isaacson.

celebrated its 26th Benefit Evening at the Four Seasons Hotel on September 14 with a crowd of nearly 400 supporters. The event featured an intimate conversation between president/CEO of the Aspen Institute,

CHF executive director Phillip Bahar, Inna Eltermann, CHF board member Dagmara Kokonas and CHF associate artistic director Alison Cuddy

CHF executive director Phillip Bahar, Inna Eltermann, CHF board member Dagmara Kokonas and CHF associate artistic director Alison Cuddy

Walter Isaacson, and president of Ariel Investments and all-round-cool-gal, Mellody Hobson. More than $700,000 was raised to advance

Dawn Meiners and Mary Galvin

Dawn Meiners and Mary Galvin

CHF’s mission to create opportunities for people of all ages to support, enjoy and explore the humanities. Additionally, proceeds from the event’s paddle raise, more than $140,000, will

CHF board members and co-chairs R. Scott Falk and Alegra Biery.

CHF board members and co-chairs R. Scott Falk and Alegra Biery.

support CHF’s EdLab education initiatives. The event was co-chaired by Jeanne and John Rowe and Lois and Harrison Steans. Gala planning

Mellody Hobson and Walter Isaacson

Mellody Hobson and Walter Isaacson

committee co-chairs were Allegra Biery (Region President, Wealth Management, Northern Trust) and R. Scott Falk (Partner, Kirkland & Ellis LLP). (Photos by Ben Gonzales)


image from http://s3.amazonaws.com/hires.aviary.com/k/mr6i2hifk4wxt1dp/15100422/894377c6-9042-4248-8cb7-89013a75621f.pngAs Steppenwolf Theatre Company enters its 40th anniversary season, the Steppenwolf Associates—a group of HIGHLY motivated and PASSIONATE young professionals, will kick off the fall season with a new event, “Unlocked: 1984.” Featuring a festive cocktail reception, SYA-1516announce-665x348-2attendees will spend an evening immersed in the dystopian world of George Orwell’s 1984 with on-set tours, an artistic conversation with 1984’s lead creative team and a performance of Orwell’s gripping masterpiece. “Unlocked: 1984” will take place on Saturday, November 7, beginning at 5:30 pm in Steppenwolf’s Upstairs Theatre,1650 N. Halsted St. For tickets and more info, click here OR contact development associate Karyn Orphans Storm imageTodd at ktodd@steppenwolf.org OR call 312-654-5601. Funds raised support Steppenwolf’s education program, Steppenwolf for Young Adults.


To help kick off National Adopt a Dog Month this month, Orphans of the Storm is opening its brand new, beautiful Woodland

Ann, available for adoption

Ann, available for adoption

Preserve to honor Thelma S. Zwirner who served as shelter president for 25 years. Festivities for this event on Friday, October 8, begin at 10:30 am with a ribbon cutting on the preserves open wooded path at 2200 Riverwoods Rd. in Riverwoods, IL. Following

Domestic short hair kitty, available for adoption

Domestic short hair kitty, available for adoption

the ceremony, the shelter’s charming and lovable dogs will parade the path for the first time. “Our location had 7.5 acres of land and there was no better way to use the land than creating a remarkable solace for our lovable and friendly

Lisa, available for adoption

Lisa, available for adoption

dogs,” said Gail Donahue, shelter administrator. “It is also an ideal space for prospective adopters to get to know their dog in a relaxed environment and where they can experience the animal’s genuine personality.” Orphans of the Storm, a longstanding animal

Mimi, available for adoption

Mimi, available for adoption

shelter in Chicago’s northern suburbs, takes responsibility and helps to find a home for every cat and dog that reaches its doors. Over the course of the shelter’s almost 90-year

Muffin, available for adoption

Muffin, available for adoption

history, more than 120,000 pets have found new homes as loving and beloved additions to families.  Arf! Arf! Meow!


On Saturday, November 7, the Chicago Urban League will host its 54th Annual Golden

Brandy--headliner for Chicago Urban League 2015 Fellowship Dinner

Brandy–headliner for Chicago Urban League 2015 Fellowship Dinner

Fellowship Dinner at the Hilton Chicago, 720 S. Michigan Avenue. The dinner supports the League’s education, economic empowerment and social justice programs. For nearly 100 years, the organization has been on the front lines advocating for equal representation for African American

Isabel Wilkerson--2015 recipient of the Edwin C."Bill" Berry Civil Rights Award

Isabel Wilkerson–2015 recipient of the Edwin C."Bill" Berry Civil Rights Award

Chicagoans. This year’s gala, themed Inspiration for the Next Generation, will be headlined by multi-talented R&B Grammy Award-winning entertainer, songwriter and actress Brandy and will be chaired by Melvin D. Williams, president, Nicor Gas and senior vice president, AGL Resources. Timuel Black, noted Chicago historian/activist/philanthropist/philosopher/Pulitzer

Timuel Black--2015 recipient of the Edwin C."Bill" Berry Civil Rights Award

Timuel Black–2015 recipient of the Edwin C."Bill" Berry Civil Rights Award

Prize Winner AND critically acclaimed Warmth of Other Suns author Isabel Wilkerson will accept the Edwin C. “Bill” Berry Civil Rights Award. For tickets and more info, click here.



The Friends of Conservation Ball will be held on October 17 at the Four Seasons Hotel. Hosted by FOC Cb15_logo_580president Reute Butler and co-chairs Vonita Reescer and Zoraida Sambolin (emcee), the event will feature a wildlife presentation/meet-and-greet by expert Jack Hanna. An exotic live auction will include amazing travel adventures. The FOC

Jack Hanna and friend

Jack Hanna and friend

was founded in 1982 by Jorie Butler Kent to protect the Masai Mara, Kenya's portion of Tanzania's important Serengeti Ecosystem and home to endangered African wildlife and the Maasai tribe. For tickets and more info, click here.  Watch this thought-provoking video below describing the important work FOC does and why it matters to us.



LogoOn Friday, October 16, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital will host its 7th annual Champions for Children's gala at the Hilton Chicago. The star studded event will

Benny the Bull and friend

Benny the Bull and friend

benefit hospital patients and their families and feature some of Chicago's greatest sports legends and current athletes. For tickets and more info, click here!


Diva/Chanteuse Lynne Jordan at Great Chicago Fire Festival

Diva/Chanteuse Lynne Jordan at Great Chicago Fire Festival

Chicago's own DIVA, Lynne Jordan was "flying high" at the Great Chicago Fire Festival! If you aren't following this beloved, renowned vocalist, check out her website here! Congrats Lynne on yet another first!


LilyOn November 7, Lily's Talent Agency will host its annual F.A.M.E. Fundraiser at Klairmont Kollection, 3111 N. Knox Ave., on Saturday, November 7 (from 2-5 pm). Since 2012, F.A.M.E. (Foundation of Artists Mentored In Entertainment), has awarded 7 scholarships and offered mentorship to young deserving artists throughout the Chicagoland area.  If

Michael Rabinowitz, Meaghan McHale, Ji Suk Yi, Joshua Blake Carter, Donna Kleinman (Photo by Phillip Thomas)

Michael Rabinowitz, Meaghan McHale, Ji Suk Yi, Joshua Blake Carter, Donna Kleinman (Photo by Phillip Thomas)

you're a car buff, this event is for you! See 80,000 sq. ft. of over 350 antiques cars from around the world AND support this great cause! For tickets and more info, click here!


I was thrilled to be a judge for Giordano Dance Company's 10th annual "Dancing with the Giordano Stars" competition along with Jim Lasko, Executive Artistic Director of Redmoon Theater Company, and Mort Kessler, an original dancer for GDC. Chicago's Michael Rabinowitz (with GDC dancer Maeghan McHale) won for "Best Male Contestant" and Donna Kleinman (with GDC dancer Joshua Blake Carter) as "Best Female Contestant." Check out my Tribune column next Sunday for full details from this 53 year-old jazz dance company's record-breaking fundraiser.  Taste-of-the-nationCongrats to Nan Giordano and all the brave participants!


On Sunday, October 11, more than 65 of the city’s most talented chefs and mixologists will unite for one of the city’s premier culinary events, Taste of the Nation Chicago, in support of No Kid Hungry, a non-profit that ensures all children across the country have the healthy food they need every day. The party, emceed by Chef Jeff Mauro, will take place in Navy Pier’s ballroom and lakeside plaza, beginning at 7pm (VIP admission at 6pm). For tickets and more info, click here.


As always, I want to leave you with a smile! See why this unlikely pet is doing a "happy dance". Awwwww……


Subscribe button imageThat's all for now! I hope you enjoy reading my blog as much as I enjoy bringing it to you! And remember, if you would like to subscribe, please click here!  (My list is completely spam free and never sold.)

Love, as always,

Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

Antiques Roadshow shot in PlayboyP.S. #1 If you're interested in finding out what my Playboy memorabilia is worth on Antiques Roadshow, tune in Monday, October 19, at 8 pm on PBS. A special "Behind the Scenes" segment will air on Thursday, October 15 at 8 pm on WTTW!

P.S. #2 If you missed my blockbuster, star-filled Candid Candace column Sunday from the After School Matters Gala in the Chicago Tribune, click here!

After School Matters 10-4-15Everyone enjoys it! LOL!

B

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