Category Archives: Film

CHICAGO’S LITERARY AWARDS, HOLIDAY HOT SPOTS, COOL DECORATING TIPS, VIRTUAL TRIUMPHS AND MORE!

Plus: Fun, fashion and FUR-lanthropy for Infant Welfare Society; Cooking with Sarah and Kerry for Pitch In; WINGS' virtual "Sweet Home Chicago" party; Jack Frost's Winter Walk & Christmas Tree Farm; Frosty's Holiday Pop-Up Hotel (the first and only); Albany Park unites with lights;  CircuitMOM's Holiday Pop-Up; The Drake Hotel's homage to Princess Diana; Top designers share tips/tricks for holiday decorating; Jim Peterik and the Ides of March (FREE) Christmas show; Kehoe Designs makes Christmas Merry & Bright for the needy; Shaun and Joseph's towering holiday gift giving idea; Skyline's Thomas O'Gorman; National Jingle Bell Day from Chicago Star Media (JOIN US!); Porchlight Music Theatre's "Burning Bluebeard"; Playboy remembers its Playmates at Christmas; Ruth Page Center's virtual Nutcracker; Chicago Light's "Gala of Hope at Home"; GREAT toy drive list; Nadia Lee Cohen's "WOMEN"; Special thanks to Sylvia, Anna, Robert, Thomas, Steve, Fred and Hannah; This & That; Fun videos and SOOO much more!

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Isabel Wilkerson, Carl Sandburg Literary Award recipient.

The Chicago Public Library Foundation has hosted an elaborate Carl Sandburg Literary Awards Dinner for the past 20 years, the last being in 2019 with an extravagant affair at the UIC Forum where over 1000 guests enjoyed a sit-down dinner at tables loaded with books from featured authors and even the authors themselves joining guests at their tables. This year, it was a little different with a virtual event but it was certainly no less exciting. Longtime host Bill Kurtis opened the hour-long event seated in an easy chair in a cozy virtual library. He presented speakers Bob Wislow (CPLF chair), Linda Johnson Rice (CPL chair), Brenda Langstraat (CPLF president), Dave Casper (CPLF vice chair, U.S. CEO BMO Financial Group) and moderator Scott Simon (host NPR Saturday Weekend Edition). Kurtis spoke about past literary giants who had been honored at this prestigious event like Kurt Vonnegut, Margaret Atwood, Salman Rushdie and Toni Morrison. He introduced this year's three honorees: Nate Marshall (21st Century Honoree), Donna La Pietra

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Donna La Pietra, the first CPLF Civic Award winner.

 

(Inaugural Civic Award) and Isabel Wilkerson (Carl Sandburg Literary Award). Mayor Lightfoot and First Lady Amy Eshleman served as honorary chairs. Langstraat spoke about the successful pivots the Library has been forced to make due to the pandemic like shifting to virtual programming, creating over 100K grab-and-go activity kits and virtual story sessions like "Live from the Library", the most successful social media campaign in the Library's history! It featured celebrities with ties to Chicago reading to kids including former President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle, Oprah, John C. Reilly, Bonnie Hunt, Gabrielle Union, Common,

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Nate Marshall, CPLF 21st Century honoree.

Chelsea Clinton, the Mayor, Jane Lynch, Michelle Williams and many others. This uber-successful campaign garnered 22 million video views and 800 million impressions with viewers tuning in from over 37 countries! Wislow then introduced the 21st Century honoree, Nate Marshall, a rapper, poet, playwright, educator, community-engaged artist and more. Marshall was raised in West Pullman and is the grandson of a Chicago Public librarian. Nate said he was "forged in the farthest reaches of this city" and that his family has had a presence here for a century. He urged viewers to support the library where he was

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Former president Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle appeared in video for "Live from the Library."

"nurtured" and ended his acceptance speech with his poem titled "Imagine" dedicated to all those who influenced him. Video congrats came from Natalie Y. Moore (a fellow 21st Century honoree, 2017), Helen

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Event host Bill Kurtis and his Donna La Pietra, Civic Award honoree.

Zell, Dr. Eve L. Ewing (2019 21st Century honoree) and Mary Ellen Messmer (CPL Acting Commissioner). Linda Johnson Rice introduced Donna La Pietra as the inaugural Civic Award honoree calling her "a force." Bob Wislow said, "Donna embodies the spirit of this award." Everyone who knows and loves Donna knows what a perfect

choice she is for this honor. She has been on the CPLF board for over 20 years, invited by

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Gabrielle Union appeared in the presentation from "Live from the Library."

the board's founder and Donna's

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Rap artist Pinqy Ring-After School Matters.

mentor, Cindy Pritzker. Donna, a longtime producer and Emmy Award winner, was also instrumental in the creation of Millennium Park, is active on the boards of many civic organizations, including the Library Foundation, Steppenwolf, Shedd Aquarium and Chicago Botanic Garden to name just a few. She is an avid gardener and land conservationist. There's really not enough space or time to mention all of the ways she has enhanced Chicago and inspired the people who live here, including me, with her unique

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Brenda Langstraat, CPLF president.
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Chef Rick Bayless.

brand of magic. Donna said, "How lucky am I to have found my way to so many of Chicago's nonprofit organizations, who at their hearts, have a desire to serve and at their soul is volunteerism." Congratulatory videos came in from Greg Cameron (CEO Joffrey Ballet), Rick Bayless, Michelle Boone (Navy Pier), Peter Sagal ("Wait, Wait, Don't Tell Me"), Jaume Plensa (artist), Justice Anne Burke, Rhona Frazin (past CPLF pres/CEO), Pinqy Ring (rap artist

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Greg Cameron, CEO Joffrey Ballet.

with After School Matters) and artist Nick Cave.

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Linda Johnson Rice, CPLF chair.

Donna dedicated her award to her mentor Cindy Pritzker who she said, "has been her role model for service, for fostering fearlessness, for her visionary thinking, for rewarding the risk-takers and for a wide diverse embrace of people and ideas." Pritzker said of Donna, "When I think of the doers in our wonderful city, the first name that pops up is Donna La Pietra. Nobody can come close. She is Miss Chicago." Isabel Wilkerson,

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Dr. Eve L. Ewing, 2019 21st Century Award recipient.

the Carl Sandburg Literary Award winner, was featured

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Dave Casper, U.S. CEO BMO>

in a Q & A with NPR radio's Scott Simon. Wilkerson is the winner of the Pulitzer Prize and the National Humanities Medal and is the author of the New York Times bestsellers "Caste: The Origins of Our Discontents" and "The Warmth of Other Suns." She spoke about her deeply-researched works that provide insights into America's history and the divides that linger today. She grew up in Washington, D.C. where her father was a Tuskegee Airman. Congrats on this wonderful first virtual Awards event and to all the winners! So inspiring. There is a branch of the Chicago Public Library in all of Chicago's 77 neighborhoods.

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Elizabeth McNally Mairs wearing York Furrier.

Fun, fashion and FUR-lanthropy were the themes for the Oak Brook Chapter of the Auxiliary of the Infant Welfare Society when they hosted "Home for the Holidays" on December 6. Presented by longtime emcee Alison Rosati (NBC-5), the virtual "Mistletoe Medley" event included fabulous fashions curated by  Tracey Tarantino of ZZAZZ Productions (in a collaboration with Chapter member Marge Tresley)

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Tracey Tarantino DiBuono (ZZAZZ Productions) at Kehoe Design's Holiday Shoppe.

and a festive home segment from Kehoe Design's Holiday Shoppe at the Peninsula. Alison called the event, "the unofficial start of the festive time of year of giving." Fashion highlights included looks from redE Mas Boutique, York Furrier and Peach Carr Designs,

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Lou Smeja, Oak Brook Chapter President.

all presented by my favorite model Elizabeth McNally Mairs. Alison opened the show welcoming viewers and acknowledging Angel Donors Nives Rizza and Susan Heil. Chapter president Lou Smeja thanked supporters and shared that this event raised over $160,000 for the Infant Welfare Society (and the Angel Harvey Family Health Center) and that the Chapter has donated nearly 9,000 hours of volunteer service in 2020. Tracey reported in from redE Mas Boutique in Hinsdale (36 E.

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Allison Rosati, longtime event emcee (NBC-5).

First St.) where she showed blazer looks that are perfect for Zoom meetings and then it was onto York Furs. York Furrier (located at 107 N. York St. in Elmhurst) is celebrating 89 years in business and has

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Designer Peach Carr, the one and onlyl.

supported nonprofits in the community since its inception. Owners Kathy and John Rezny greet guests like they're family members and the selection of furs, outerwear and unique accessories is one of the best in the city. For this presentation, glam luxe were the watch words as Elizabeth swished about in a beautiful variety of furs and handbags. Tracey then interviewed Project

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Tracey Tarantino at redE Mas Boutique.

Runway star, designer Peach Carr, a Chicago native, from her private atelier above her home built in 1870. The space was once a hay loft and has now been transformed into Peach's "happy place" with light

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Elegant Elizabeth McNally Mairs wearing an outfit from redE Mas Boutique.

wood and lots of windows. Peach recounted her journey to appear on Project Runway where she was hand-selected by style arbiter Tim Gunn. Peach's daughter Molly was the driving force behind this exciting opportunity urging her mother to submit an application. Peach eventually appeared in

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Peach Carr pointing out 3 of her archived designs.

episodes for both Project Runway and Project Runway All-Stars. In a riveting Q & A with Tracey, Peach shared that her collections have always been "about women, for women and made in Chicago." She said she wants women to feel good about themselves

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Elizabeth McNally Mairs wearing Peach Carr's popular "paper doll" dress.

and that all of her pieces are very

stretchy, very easy to wear and forgiving, especially with all of us "eating our way through the pandemic." She said Edie Sedgwick, one of Andy Warhol's Factory superstars, has always been her muse and that she even met Edie's aunt Kyra Sedgwick, at an event where Kyra said to

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Tracey Tarantino at Kehoe Design's Holiday Shoppe at the Peninsula.

her, "You're the one who designs for my dead aunt, right?" Peach discussed three of her iconic designs that she keeps in the loft. The first, a black cocktail dress, was part of her first collection following Project Runway. A glamorous, pale peach coat dress was her audition piece and a third look, a red dress designed as an

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Elizabeth McNally Mairs wearing a Peach Carr design.

homage to Chicago, was the first piece she designed following her bad accident. The event concluded with a beautiful segment filmed at Kehoe Designs' Holiday Shoppe, where Tracey spotlighted all the festive offerings there including centerpieces, ornaments, Hanukkah items, trees and more. Congrats to all of these hardworking women who are supporting the Angel Harvey Family Health Center with such devotion. The Center provides comprehensive, state-of-the-art care for children, adolescents and adults. (More info here!)

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Cooking with Sarah and Kerry Wood for the Wood Family Foundation's Pitch In program.

The Wood Family Foundation hosted a "tasty" virtual fundraiser that involved cooking a holiday dinner with Boka Chef Lee Wolen and Foundation founders Kerry and Sarah Wood. It was a very intimate hour with the Woods Zooming in from their elegant all white kitchen and Chef Wolen from another location to prepare parmesan crusted chicken with butternut squash and

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Laura Muriello, Wood Family Foundation executive director. 

polenta. Sarah and Kerry work as well together in the kitchen as they do in real life raising a family of three, Justin, Katie and Charlie. Laura Muriello, executive director of the Wood Family Foundation, introduced the event along with Abby

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Boka Chef Lee Wolen.

Kritzler, executive director of the Boka Restaurant Group. Lots of supporters shared their dishes during the video presentation including Erin and Shawn Doty, whose smoke detector went off during their efforts. Lol! Young Cooper Smith and his brother asked Kerry "what was the fastest pitch you ever threw", the answer was

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Happy culinary participants.

102 mph! Tom and Cece Ricketts were also cooking along with Chef Wolen and the Woods as well as some mentors in the Foundation's Pitch In program. In its early years, the Foundation

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Young supporters.

sponsored one-time initiatives like coat drives, holiday gift programs as well as funding projects like the playroom at Lurie Children's Hospital. As time wore on, the Woods realized the greater needs in the community and, in 2014, developed an after-school mentoring program

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Sarah and Kerry's tasty finished dish.

that currently serves four communities and is growing. Sarah and Kerry concluded the evening showing their beautiful finished dishes and thanking supporters. She said, "It's a rough year for nonprofits and our organization is still working hard every day for our students, giving them everything they need from essentials to school supplies to support with their learning as well as meeting virtually every week. We couldn't do this without events like this." Here's to a lot more success Kerry and Sarah! Thanks for your dedication to Chicago's kids! (Learn more about this much needed nonprofit here!)

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Ralph Covert, of Ralph's World, performs at WING's "Sweet Home Chicago" event.

WINGS (Women in Need Growing Stronger) took its popular "Sweet Home Chicago" fundraiser virtual on December 13. In the past, these Sunday brunch fundraisers were held at the Four Seasons with a room full of laughing, dancing kids intent on creating the very best gingerbread houses. This year, supporters could order gingerbread house kits to be delivered to

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Rita and John Canning.

their homes as they viewed this 17th delightful (virtual) event. One component that has remained the same though was the joyous, kid-friendly music delivered

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Rebecca Darr, executive director WINGS Program.

by Ralph Covert of Ralph's World, a children's musical group that has been a part of this event for the past 11 years. Ralph opened the event Sesame Street-style with a pair of adorable puppets. The event even had a little Mister Rogers' "won't you be my neighbor" feel to it too as Ralph interacted with the puppets and Rebecca Darr, WINGS Program CEO. Darr thanked viewers and

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Adorable event participants!

encouraged them to "embrace this fun time and forget about everything happening in the world." She thanked longtime, dedicated event founders/supporters Rita and John Canning. Early on

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The late Rich Martin, his wife Donna and their amazing comfort dogs.

Rita realized there were no domestic violence shelters near her home so she decided to build one with the first safe house being built in Chicago's northwest suburbs. Since then, the Cannings have helped raise millions to support those affected by domestic violence. Rita and John appeared on-camera from their home and announced that the event raised over $700,000, making it the largest fundraiser of the year. Lots of cute kiddies appeared onscreen dancing in their jammies to Ralph's "Alphabet Song." Sadly, it was announced that Rich Martin (and his wife Donna),

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Dancing to Ralph's World!

whose comfort dogs were a key part of these annual events, had passed away recently due to Covid. In the past, his Golden Retrievers could be seen lounging around the Four Seasons ballroom as kids petted and relaxed around them. The event closed with these encouraging words from Rebecca. "Please know that your support is helping people transcend their life of violence to a life of happiness. No pandemic is going to stop us." (WINGS info here). Currently, WINGS provides 33 safe housing options in and around Chicagoland.

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IMG_8992 (2)You can still find a LOT of holiday cheer at Jack Frost's Winter Walk & Christmas Tree Farm. This pop-up experience is located at 1455 N. Elston in Goose Island. It's decorated with over 1 million lights and dozens of Insta-worthy photo opps. You can pick out a perfect tree, visit with Santa, get lost in a Christmas

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Candid Candace TV team Tracey Tarantino DiBuono, Troy Mairs and Elizabeth McNally Mairs.

Tree Trail/Maze and enjoy donuts and hot chocolate as you stroll along to the sounds of the season. (Covid guidelines in place, closes January 10 and you must have a res/ticket before arrival. Details here). I hope you enjoy my latest video from Candid Candace TV (below) with special thanks to the production Dream Team, Troy Mairs, Tracey Tarantino DiBuono and Elizabeth McNally Mairs, for making it happen! Not a subscriber, please sign up here!)

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Frosty's Pop-Up Christmas Hotel.

And, if you have out of town visitors who love the holidays, IMG_8818steer them to Chicago's first and only pop-up Christmas hotel, Frosty's, at 221 N. Columbus Ave. Yes, it IS the Radisson Blu but, for this brief moment in time it has been transformed into a magical place sprinkled with loads of holiday cheer! Even the rooms are decorated with trees! Dogs and cats are welcome and only registered guests will be allowed access to the hotel. (Details here).

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Albany Park decor.

A little bit of holiday magic is also happening in the 4100 block of N. Francisco Ave. in Albany Park where neighbors

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Chuck enjoying N. Francisco Ave. in Albany Park.

have erected endless, lighted "tunnels of love." What began last year between neighbors George Heitz and Ignacio Martinez, has caught on with others along the blocks who wanted to help bring an appreciation for the community. The results are dramatic! (Video here!)

For 20 years, CircuitMOM Productions has been producing world class experiential events led by Matthew Harvat and Edwin Martinez. This year, they have jumped into the holiday

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CircuitMOM's Holiday Pop-Up at 409 N. Wolcott.

spirit with all four feet with "CircuitMOM's Holiday Pop-Up" at 409 N. Wolcott. The excitement began on December 9 after they transformed their venue into a winter wonderland. The pop-up offers 8 unique holiday environments where you

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With CircuitMOM's Edwin Martinez and Matthew Harvat.

can capture special memories with family, friends and pets, all in a Covid safe environment. Details here: Kids (Under 10) – $6 per (Payment done on site. Cash Credit Card, Zelle, Venmo, PayPal); Adult – $12 per adult (4 people minimum); Professional Pictures – $45 ( Pictures in 3 sets, will receive digital copies, payment done on site. Cash Credit Card, Zelle, Cash-App, PayPal); Prints – $20 (Payment done on site. Cash Credit Card, Zelle, Cash-App, PayPal). (For tickets or more info, click here!) _______________________________________________________________________

IMG_9216I was able to cross something off my bucket list recently with a visit to the iconic and historic Drake Hotel's magnificent Princess Diana Suite, formerly the hotel's Presidential Suite. It was renamed after Princess Diana's

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Part of the luxurious Princess Diana Suite.

historic, and only, visit to Chicago in June, 1996. Watch for a Chicago Star Media all-access video coming soon of my interview with Damien McArdle, the Drake's GM, who shares fun-filled details about the Princess' visit and a fabulous package they're offering in the suite now! Trivia question, do you know why the hotel's hallways are so wide? To be able to accommodate two women in period ball gowns walking side by side. (Now, take a suite peek here!)

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Greg Hyder, the King of Christmas.

I know most of us have already decorated for the holidays, but I quizzed some of my favorite event designers on their favorite tips and tricks. Debi Lilly, A Perfect Event, loves filling her trees with fresh flowers,

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Debi Lilly's beautiful, flower-filled Christmas tree (photo by Tiffaney Childs)

peonies and hydrangeas and mixing them in with faux flowers. She also suggests styling a winter wonderland champagne bar topped with flowers in silver vases or mercury glass. She loves gifts wrapped in velvet bows with cheeky tags and adding luxe to wrapping paper with suede tassels, Swiss silk double face ribbon and tiny pom poms hot glued onto craft paper. Vintage bottle brush trees are another favorite item to

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Michelle Durpetti's elegant holiday table.

decorate with as are fresh pine boughs. Michelle Durpetti, another fabulous wedding planner, event designer and co-owner of Gene & Georgetti's restaurant, says don't limit yourself to traditional holiday colors. Consider jewel tones and don't be afraid of

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Greg Hyder and Jim Smith's ornament-filled chandelier.

adding texture to your holiday table. Think velvet table linens with gorgeous glassware, Shantung napkins with wooden chargers. She loves using her mom's (Marion

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Ramsey Prince decorates a gorgeous holiday table. (Maison du Prince, 566 Chestnut, Winnetka)

Durpetti) collection of salt and pepper shakers, flatware and china that she picked up in her travels. She said, "This way, the table provides direct access to memory lane as a conversation starter." Event planner Derrick Taylor says "don't get caught up in commercial fads. Christmas is really about feeling. Collect ornaments that tell your story." Greg Hyder helps plan plenty of seasonal decor at

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Debi Lilly with a locally sourced tree.

  the Peninsula Hotel but for his own home, with partner Jim Smith, he likes to go a little more over the top. He's as much a fan of Christmas as I am (if this is even possible?!) and he decorates every nook and cranny. In their new, multi-

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Debi Lilly's pastel bottle brush trees add a charming touch.

level home, he has plenty to work with but is conscious of his carbon footprint. He repurposes decor to suit the holiday. For instance, when Halloween is over, the bright orange pumpkins are transformed into silver and gold works of art that adorn their front steps. Greg loves using ornaments in unexpected places too like hanging from chandeliers or worked into vignettes for the mantle. He's a great collector of vintage items and decorates with traditional as well as modern

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Meet Sookie Hyder-Smith. Finally, a home for the holidays (rescued from PAWS by Greg and Jim).

elements. I love all of these friends' styles and know their homes are filled with so much holiday cheer! For Chuck and me, we LOVE to decorate and, most years, leave our Christmas tree and decorations up way past their due date. I can't stand to part with it.  Actually, I keep a curio cabinet up year-round filled with vintage Christmas items along with a 4-foot-tall Santa that I bought with my Mom at Marshall Field's. A giant, lighted wreath adorns our antique liquor cabinet (that I bought in high school for $45 on layaway). These are things I just can't part with, they provide way too many happy memories. Fortunately, Chuck feels the same (I think).

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Kehoe Designs helping those less fortunate during the holidays.

Kudos to Tom Kehoe! His Kehoe Designs is working with local nonprofits to gift fully decorated Christmas trees to those in need of a little extra holiday cheer. Working with the American Heart Association, HIRE 360 and NAMI Chicago, the partners have identified recipients who have had particularly challenging experiences this year. The first tree went to Angelo Panzica, who came down with Covid after being hired by HIRE 360. Thanks for all you do in our communities Tom!

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Joseph Szmczak and Shaun Rajah.

A great gift idea brought to you by Shaun Rajah and Joseph Szmczak,, Holiday Happy Hour Towers! Stylishly curated bundles of sweets, savories and holiday scents for Christmas and NYE that come in beautiful, signature holiday packaging! (Details here!)  

I want to give a shout-out to my fellow columnist Thomas

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The uber-talented Thomas O'Gorman of Skyline newspaper.

O'Gorman, the delightful, around-town writer for the Skyline newspaper. In my wildest dreams, I could never write as good as he does. His work is sheer poetry and his knowledge of the arts, history, Chicago and even gourmet cooking runs very, very deep. I love all of his columns and never miss them but, his most recent one, "Who would ever want to be king,"  truly captured the spirit of the holidays and Chicago in its present state. It is a must-read! Keep up the great work Thomas! YOU are a Chicago treasure! (Scroll down his Facebook page to his column here!)  

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National Jingle Bell Day presented by Chicago Star Media, Saturday, December 19, 6 pm CST!

I'm so excited and hope you can join me on Saturday, December 19 at 6 pm CST. Chicago Star Media has come up with a really BIG idea to bring the city and, hopefully, the country together for National Jingle Bell Day! The concept for NJBD was born after the Jingle Bell Day Flier Image Fileresurgence of Covid-19 in Illinois caused another wave of shutdowns this fall that has extended into the holidays. Elaine Hyde, publisher/editor of Chicago Star Media, created the event after being inspired by the community sing-a-longs that took place in Chicago earlier in the year. So, on Dec.19, at 6 pm CST, wherever you are, indoors, outdoors, in your car or in your workplace, videotape yourself singing Jingle Bells and post to social media with the hashtag #jinglebellday2020! OR, come join us around the Great Tree near the Wrigley building on Saturday, Dec. 19 at 6 pm! Bring your bells, we will be live-streaming! (For more info, visit Chicago Star Media here and let's SING!)

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Porchlight Music Theatre announces its latest virtual offering, the holiday return of The Ruffians’ Burning Bluebeard! Burning Bluebeard, now in its ninth year, was created and performed by the critically acclaimed theatre troupe The Ruffians. A magical story, told with music, clowning, tumbling, acrobatics and dance, Burning Bluebeard is a physical-performance phenomena inspired by the true story of Chicago’s former Iroquois Theatre and the unforgettable events that resulted in tragedy for 600 theatergoers at Christmastime in 1903. "A vaudevillian musical delight with a story that excavates the poetic and poignant remains of a piece of Chicago’s rich history and will leave you with an unforgettable experience." (Details here, through January 3!)

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Chicago’s oldest Nutcracker tradition is transformed into a one-of-a-kind, immersive, virtual experience featuring (pre-recorded) dance at the historic Ruth Page Center for the Arts located in Chicago’s Gold Coast. Streaming now, join the Stahlbaum’s at their holiday gathering. Experience Clara’s dreams of sugar plums, rogue bon bons, impish peppermints and a pine forest dusted with snow. Peek into Drosselmeyer's Workshop and the Kingdom of Sweets to see the Sugar Plum Fairy dance with her friends. Visions: A Nutcracker Experience gives everyone a chance to see The Ruth Page Center for the Arts as never before and an opportunity to celebrate the season in a whole new way. (Through Dec. 20, details here!)   

Chicago Lights will host its "Gala of Hope, at Home", on Friday, March 5 at 7 pm. This virtual event will benefit Chicago Lights Gala of Hope at Home Mar. 5 the life-changing and youth development and social service programs of Chicago Lights and the community support efforts of the Replogle Center for Counseling and Well-Being. Details here!

And, it's not too late to donate to the holiday toy drives going on across Chicagoland! Here's a great list comprised by Block Club Chicago!

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Nadia Lee Cohen holds copy of her first book, WOMEN, a sell out in its first run!

I'm so excited about Nadia Lee Cohen's first book, WOMEN. British-born, Los Angeles-based photographer

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Nadia Lee Cohen's "WOMEN."

Nadia's WOMEN, her IDEA-published photo book debut, is the result of six years of work and features 100 "extra unordinary portraits." And I am one of them. Pinch me. It opens with Mick Jagger's daughter, Georgia May. The first run, a limited edition of 1000, is already sold out! They are taking orders now for the second edition here.

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Ides of MarchMy favorite rock legend, Jim Peterik, will be offering his 25th

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Rock legend Jim Peterik, the Ides of March.

annual "Sharing Christmas with the Ides of March" on Saturday, Dec. 19, 8 pm, CST. This live-streamed event (from his studio!) will be available for FREE (Jim's Christmas gift to his fans) on youtube and facebook! (Details here)!

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Hannah Stanley and Fred Weintraub–WGCO radio.

The year is coming to a close and this seems to be about the

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Anna Davlantes–WGN radio host. (John Reilly photo).

end of virtual fundraisers until next year. I've been traveling around town gathering up as much holiday cheer as I possibly can to share with you and it's been a gold mine out there. People are celebrating and decorating in ways I've never seen before. An event designer friend of

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Sylvia Perez–Fox 32 Chicago.

mine told me stores like Michael's, Target, Home Goods, Home Depot and others, were sold out of Christmas decor almost before they were stocked! I'm thrilled to be able to find so many media outlets

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Robert Feder's column.

covering places to go and things to do for the holidays too. It was a thrill to present my Holiday Hot List (read it here on Chicago Star Media) and more fun news from around town with the one and only Sylvia Perez (Fox 32 Chicago), Anna Davlantes (WGNRadio) and Fred Weintraub and Hannah Stanley (WGCO radio's "The Hannah & Fred Show," listen here!) I loved chatting about what I know and love best, CHICAGO, and I'm so lucky to have such wonderfully supportive media friends! And a special thanks to Robert Feder and Skyline's Thomas O'Gorman for including me in their must-read columns too! (Watch my fun interview with Sylvia below!) Love and thanks to ALL!

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Playboy Christmas gifts--mask and bath bomb--received 12-14-20Playboy never forgets its Playmates. For years and years, Hefner always sent Christmas gifts to every one of his Playmates. Gifts included everything from branded clothing (PB backpacks) to jewelry to customized cosmetics (think "Playmate Pink" blush)! I'm so happy to see his tradition continue! Thanks dear Playboy for

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Steve Ewert photo.

never forgetting those who brought you to the party!

Special thanks to photographer Steve Ewert who included me in his "Portraits of Successful Women" campaign. It's an honor to appear alongside alongside Brandis Friedman, Dominique Jordan, Lily Liu, Laura Chavez, Kate Sullivan and others. Thanks so much for including me Steve! (Read my story here, if you want, lol)

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BoatsThe spirit of the season has not been dampened for me even with Covid and all the problems we're facing right now. If anything, I'm feeling even more hopeful. I was chatting with a very knowledgeable friend who's in retail recently and he really opened my eyes with his E148246d341b93843b6eb8c9a729175d interesting take on things. He said, "Can you imagine what it's going to be like when this is all over and people are safe and free to travel again? We will be swamped here in Chicago with people from the Midwest and across the country finally anxious to get out and about! The stores, hotels and restaurants will be packed. It will be like after Prohibition!" I had never thought of things this way but I think he is absolutely right! I know I will be jumping out of my sneakers (no more heels in the near future) to do all of the things I haven't been able to enjoy for all these many months. I will feel like Secretariat breaking free of the starting gate! So, I do see light at the end of our long, dark tunnel. And I just can't wait to celebrate (with you)!  

Have a Happy, Healthy, Safe Holiday Season and a Very Merry Christmas! Here's to a big, bright 2021 for us all!

Love, as always,

Candace

Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S.  I didn't know they could read?!

4 Comments

Filed under Books, Chicago, Culture, Current Affairs, Fashion, Film, Music, Television, Travel

WHO LET THE DOGS OUT: PAWS CHICAGO’S FIRST VIRTUAL FUR BALL

Plus: Lynn Sage Cancer Research Foundation's Fall Benefit with Hoda; One Tail at a Time's Houndstooth at Home, a virtual triumph; Hippocratic Cancer Research Foundation's WINGS TO CURE fights cancer virtually!; My Holiday Hot List; Metropolitan Family Services "Mpowers the Night"; Chicago Makers Holiday Pop-Up Shop; Giordano Dance Chicago's virtual "JOLT"; Gene & Georgetti's Holiday Surprise; ULBGC's Inspirational Heroes; Tony's very giving Plant Truck; Costume Council Zooms in on Sydney; Neiman Marcus' Fantasy Gifts; Chicago Shakes Holiday Market; Candid Candace TV; This & That; Videos (including one with a tasty idea for Thanksgiving leftovers) and SOOOO much more!

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PAWS Chicago founder/event chair Paula Fasseas with co-chairs Angie DeMars, Phillip Emigh and Bruce Haas in the background.

As with all events this year that have been forced to go virtual, PAWS Chicago's Fur Ball was no exception. But, for me, this was a tough one as there really is no substitute for rubbing cold little noses with all the rescues at this annual black-tie event at the Drake Hotel. But, as

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Co-chairs Phillip Emigh and Bruce Haas (Tails in the City) and Angie DeMars (Noah's Ark Pet Supply)

always, this fabulous nonprofit managed to create joy and raise big $$$ even if it was only online. Co-chaired by the glamorous quartet of Angie DeMars, Bruce Haas and Phillip Emigh and Tinsley Mortimer, the event raised much needed funds to help save the lives of homeless pets and provide operating

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Event co-chair Tinsley Mortimer with Strawberry and Shortcake.

expenses. (The silent auction raised over $110K and the Bid-to-Save-Live raised about $100K) PAWS, the city's largest no-kill shelter, relies on fundraising for its $12 million annual operating budget, much of which comes from

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Chef Stephanie Izard, a PAWS supporter and rescue cat mom.

individual donors. On this night, the organization's donors were out in full force, thankfully. The evening was emceed by long-time PAWS supporter/radio personality Lisa Dent (who owns FIVE

Ali

Angie DeMars' PAWS rescue Ali.

PAWS rescue dogs!). She skillfully steered the show's segments which began with a darling skit involving Bruce, Phillip and their dog Charlie. They were fussing with his little tuxedo and then fretting over the fact that Bruce forgot to brush his (the dog's!) teeth. Phillip reminded him how important this was since Charlie was going to meet fellow co-chair Tinsley Mortimer's dogs Strawberry and Shortcake. In another

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Fur Ball emcee Lisa Dent, radio personality and PAWS' rescue mom.

segment, Angie is shown with her darling PAWS pup Ali drinking (faux) shots, laughing and getting ready to party! PAWS founder, Paula Fasseas, looking elegant against a black and gold backdrop and flanked by Angie, Bruce and Phillip with their pups,

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Mike and Melissa Canning at their viewing party.

welcomed guests and thanked donors. "Together, we are building a no-kill Chicago," she said. Then the event switched to Scottsdale, Arizona, where Alexis Fasseas was celebrating at a beautiful house party hosted by a donor along with the co-chairs. At another viewing party, Melissa and

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PAWS co-founder Alexis Fasseas.

Michael Canning, long-time PAWS supporters and 3-time Fur Ball co-chairs, welcomed viewers to their home where a large "Let's PAW-ty" banner hung on a wall in the background. Then it was on

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Ashley Townes, PAWS COO.

to Anne Marie and Murray Peretz's house where Murray shared that it was a PAWS pup (introduced to them by PAWS' friends Judy and Howard Tullman) that got them both involved. There was also a visit to the home of Erica Kelly and her family in Lakeview. Chef Stephanie Izard, who donated an auction prize, appeared in a segment thanking supporters, mentioning that PAWS has saved about 5,000 animals this

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Donna Baily, PAWS volunteer.

year. A video montage of adoptable pets included precious dogs, cats and kittens. Auctioneer David

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Erica Kelly and friend at a Fur Ball Watch Party.

Goodman conducted a "live auction" via video that turned out really well. I had no idea how he planned to do this but it was a great success and created almost as much excitement as an in-person event. Items included a foodie package for 10 in your home from Chef Doug Psaltis (RPM) that sold for $9K. Always a popular auction item, the opportunity to have your pet appear on the cover of the PAWS desk calendar, sold for $10K and a Rocky Mountain weeklong vacation for

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Phillip Emigh,Tinsley Mortimer, Bruce Haas, Alexis Fasseas, Peter and Paula Fasseas and Angie DeMars celebrating a successful Fur Ball in Scottsdale.

10 at an exquisite home in Snowmass sold for $8K. The chance to have your pet's photo on a

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Bruce and Phillip's darling rescue Charlie.

PAWS Animal Rescue Transport van sold for $12K; a pair of A. Marek Fine Jewelry diamond earrings sold for $5K and a vintage 1970 Landrover Defender 90 (canvas top) sold for $45K! The last prize, a Tuscan villa for 10 for a week sold for $19K and included the chance to create your own wine at a local winery. The successful, and entertaining evening, concluded with a Fund-a-Need. Paula said, "Back in 1997, Chicago's stray problem was terrible. Every time a cat sneezed, the local animal shelter would mark "E" for euthanasia

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PAWS calendar cover star, Remi Spurlock.

and the next day, the cat wouldn't be there. I was

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Fur Ball's highest selling live auction prize, a 1970 Landrover Defender sold for $45K.

horrified and knew there had to be a better way. That's how PAWS got started." The stats tell the "tail": Last year– 5,134 pets were euthanized (down from 42,561 before PAWS existed);  PAWS has a 97.9% save rate; 5,217 pets were adopted; 15,174 spray-neuter surgeries were performed and volunteers put in 149,507 hours. What's next? PAWS is planning a spay/neuter clinic on the south side of Chicago, creating spay/neuter outposts in other U.S. cities of need and elevating the universal care of dogs and cats. (On another note, have you seen the PAWS Party Bus around town, blasting the song "Who Let the Dogs Out?"? …..They're hoping to raise $100,000, to A) stop the song (lol!) and B) support the shelter and its mission. (To donate, or learn more, click here)

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LSCRF founding members--Top L to R--Terri Lind  Charles Ifergan  Lili Ann Zisook  Front L to R--Diane Greengross  Charlene Lieber and Ellen Soren.

LSCRF founding members–Top L to R–Terri Lind, Charles Ifergan, Lili Ann Zisook, Front L to R–Diane Greengross, Charlene Lieber and Ellen Soren.

The Lynn Sage Cancer Research Foundation hosted its virtual Fall Benefit on October 22. Hoda Kotb (of Today with Hoda & Jenna), served as this year's celebrity host. Kotb, a four-time Emmy Winner and a breast cancer survivor, shared her personal story and spoke about LSCRF's history and mission. She said, "The LSCRF

Lynn Sage

The much loved Lynn Sage.

was founded 35 years ago to preserve Lynn's memory while supporting state-of-the-art patient care, exceptional educational outreach programs and revolutionary research." Featured impact speaker and

Hoda-kotb-celebrity-host-speaker

Celebrity host Hoda Kotb.

survivor Ceta Walters is also a breast cancer survivor, an LSCRF board member, Chicago influencer and founder of Clark & Stone (a fashion and lifestyle blog).  She emotionally shared her cancer story and the added complexities of battling breast cancer during the pandemic. She was diagnosed a year ago and said, "You don't want it to define who you are but in a sense it

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Featured impact speaker Ceta Walters.

does," she said. Other guest speakers included Giuliana Rancic (E! News), Lou Canellis (Fox 32 sports), Jill Kargman (actress, "Odd Mom Out"), Matt Speigel (670 The Score), Ashley Longshore (pop artist), Len Kasper (Cubs announcer) and LeeAnn Trotter (NBC Chicago).

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Meredith Soren Freese, LSCRF chair.

Meredith Soren Freese, LSCRF chair (Sophia Jones was vice-chair) greeted viewers and introduced Dr. Leonidas Platanias (Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center director of Northwestern Medicine) who spoke about the advances in breast cancer research and new initiatives made possible by grants funded by LSCRF. Freese said, "As a founding member's

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Founding board member Charles Ifergan.

daughter, I remember Lynn's family and friends channeling their immense grief into something positive and LSCRF was born. To date, they have helped raise over $35 million

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Founding board member Charlene Lieber.

in the fight against breast cancer. They have also funded over 75 fellowships, millions of dollars of advanced treatments like tamoxifin and so much more. Hoda ended the 50-minute long event by saying, "When you see the skyline lit in pink, that's LSCRF at work reminding you to see your doctor regularly, get a mammogram and make sure you and your loved ones take good care of themselves." The virtual event brought in over $500,000. (For more info or to donate, please click here).

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Hosts

One Tail at a Time's Houndstooth at Home event co-hosts Elliott Bambrough (WGN-TV) and Heather Owen, OTAT founder/ED.

There were a LOT of grab-a-hankie moments during One Tail at a Time's first virtual Houndstooth at Home event on November 13. The evening was hosted by executive director Heather Owen and Elliott Bambrough (of WGN-TV) and featured adopted and adoptable dogs, their inspiring stories, a raffle, a silent auction and a fun game to cap off the paws-itively fabulous night! The opening video segments showcased happy dogs with their

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Anna Johnson, OTAT foster program director.

new owners, most of the shots involved the rescues vigorously licking their new moms and dads. In another video segment, Heather and her

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Amber Severence, OTAT ISO dog coordinator.

band of saviors, that included Amber Serverence (ISO dog coordinator), traveled to Chicago Animal Care & Control to rescue 5 dogs. I have no idea how they can ever choose what dogs to save, it's a job I sure couldn't handle, but they seem to know instinctively which ones would make good pets. Then the evening moved onto Anna Johnson, foster program director, handling a transport of 7 dogs from the West Memphis Animal Services, one of OTAT's southern partners. These dogs all had urgent

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A happy adopter and her rescue.

  but minor medical conditions that needed to be attended to before they were fostered and then adopted. I then reached for my first Kleenex as I heard about a pair of puppies who were deaf and visually impaired. Pork Bun and

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The story of Pork Bun and Potato Puff moved me to tears. (Those names, LOL!)

Potato Puff were found as strays in the south. They'd been attacked by other dogs and were both full of bite wounds. When they ended up at the shelter, they were terrified, naturally. Then they found their way to OTAT where they've learned how to be happy puppies again and will be ready for adoption soon. Heather talked about a new initiative that OTAT has implemented to rescue

Top--cocoa  almond butter and daisy--bottom  ruth  pair of seniors and Rusty (senior)

In need of sponsors: Top–Cocoa, Almond Butter and Daisy–bottom Ruth, a pair of seniors and Rusty (also a senior).

cats. Previously, they had rescued kittens, but now they've included both, including seniors and special needs cats that will be cared for in The (new) Lily and

Ellis Clinic

OTAT Ellis Clinic.

Lucy Kitten Nursery. The next impact video featured dog Ruth, who had been through hell but was still loving and trusting. She was riddled with bird shot, but thanks to the care she received at OTAT, she is now ready for adoption! Heather thanked her staff ("dream team all the way"), the board, volunteers, adopters and fosters old and new (3000+!!!!). Last year, the nonprofit saved 975 animals and this year, drum roll please, OTAT rescued 1,568 homeless pets! The evening

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RUTH! LOL!

concluded with the popular "Last Hero Game", where viewers text "last hero" and the last person to text wins. The amazing prize, won by Chelsie Polifka, was the opportunity to have her pet painted on the last

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Another happy OTAT family…

spot available on the wall of the Ellis Clinic building at 2144 N. Wood (by appt. only). DJ Matt Roan played us out…..Over $225,000 was raised to help fund the rescue, rehabilitation and adoption of animals in need, comprehensive support of adopters and community outreach including humane education and assistance for disadvantaged and low-income families. (More OTAT info here!)

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Dr. Leonidas Platanias.

Dr. Leonidas Platanias, head of the Lurie Cancer Center.

The Hippocratic Cancer Research Foundation's hosted its "Wings to Cure" gala virtually this year on November 14. Viewers heard from doctors, scientists, board members, cancer survivors, celebrity guests and others who shared their stories and spoke about the advances in cancer research. The event raised over $500,000 to support HCRF's mission to find and implement new treatments for cancer patients by promoting and supporting breakthrough cancer

HCRF founding chair Eleni Bousis.

Eleni Bousis, HCRF founding chair.

research at the Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center of Northwestern University AND to eliminate this dreaded disease. Over half of all men and one-third of all women in the United States will

Alex Maragos  Lou Canellis and Anna Davlantes--co-hosts.

Event co-hosts Alex Maragos, Lou Canellis and Anna Davlantes.

develop cancer during their lifetime so the need for this type of "out of the box" research is paramount. The event was hosted by Alex Maragos (NBC-5), Lou Canellis (Fox 32) and Anna Davlantes (WGN radio) who spoke about the history of HCRF. The nonprofit was founded in 2014 by Eleni Bousis and a few friends who wanted to make a difference for humanity and

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Barbara Bates, fashion designer and cancer survivor.

those impacted by cancer. Jazz saxophonist Kenny G. opened the virtual program wishing the organization well and acknowledging Bousis' outstanding

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Founding board member Kristine Farra with her kids Jad and Leah Farra.

contributions. Supporters appearing in videos included Ryan Chiaverini (Windy City Live co-host) who spoke about his mother passing away recently from throat cancer; designer Barbara Bates, an 11-year breast cancer survivor; co-chair Mary Jo McMahon; founding chair Eleni Bousis and founding board members Susanne Fein, Nicole Iliades, Danielle Samoyovich, Kristine Farra, Charlene and Scott Seaman (a cancer survivor),

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Glam guests at a past, in-person, Wings to Cure gala.

Peter Karahalios and Jake Stevens. San Francisco 49'ers defensive end Nick Bosa, Dorinda Medley (Real Housewives of NYC), HRH Princess Catherine of Serbia (who's also a board member), Brian Baumgartner (actor on "The Office") and Tom Dreesen (a cancer AND Covid survivor) also appeared on video. Doctors

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Mary Jo McMahon–gala chair.

sharing news from their areas of research included Frank Eckerdt, Roger Stupp, Jessica Altman, Bill Gradishar, Maha Hussain and others. Dr. Diana Nora Vaz Saleiro received the "Highlight a Scientist Award." She is Research Assistant Professor of Medicine (hematology and oncology) at Northwestern Medicine. The show ended with a look back at past Wings to Cure in-person galas and photos of guests. DJ John Grammatis provided the soundtrack. (For more info and/or to donate, click here

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BEST (2)

Fa La La mask by Taylor & Co. Events, custom order, $35.

As anyone who knows me knows, my love of all things Christmas borders on obsession. So, this season (especially), when we all "need a little Christmas," I've been scouting out my favorite spots around town to share with you. I've decided on 5 that are at the top of my list. See below:

1) Taylor & Company's Fa-La-La Holiday Pop-Up Experience–Beginning December 1 and

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Derrick Taylor teaches guest the fine art of wreath-making.

running through Christmas Eve, event designer Derrick Taylor has recreated the North Pole at 2819 N. Montrose. Fa La La is a pop-up experience (socially distanced, of course) with something fun for the whole family. Santa will be granting wishes on December 6 and 13, with professional digital memories included. Wreath-making classes, a showroom filled with snow globes, custom Christmas ornaments and more (all by Illinois craftsmen) will be offered too. Since 1947, Taylor & Co. has been a family business specializing in event planning, floral design, gifts, holiday decor and more. (See my first Candid Candace TV collaboration below of Fa-La-La with Troy Mairs, Tracey DiBuono and Elizabeth McNally–are you a subscriber?)

2) "Eleanor's Very Merry Christmas, the Musical"First the book and now the heartfelt

Author-Chicagoan Denise McGowan Tracy

Author Denise McGowan Tracy with her Eleanor book, now a musical!

musical! Written by Chicagoan Denise McGowan Tracy, this charming Christmas story is appealing to the young and the young-at-heart and will is streaming now through December 27. It's the tale of a toy who's "left behind" and her journey to find happiness. A "Party in a Box" is available to enhance the experience with a copy of the book, holiday party hats, an Eleanor ornament, a reindeer ring toss game and more!

Event designer Tom Kehoe introduces his first holiday shop pop-ups.

Event designer/planner Tom Kehoe.

3) ) The Holiday Shoppe–This festive jewel box is event design guru Tom Kehoe's first holiday shop and it's filled to the brim with wreaths, garlands, trees, centerpieces, ornaments and more at the corner of Superior and Rush Streets (108 E. Superior). Other pop-up locations include The Park at Lakeshore East (333 E Benton Place), Ranalli's in Lincoln Park (1925 N. Lincoln) and Federales in the West Loop (180 N. Morgan).

4) Santa Baby Christmas Bar  –Indoor/outdoor over-the-top Christmas decor with three levels of gram-worthy experiences. Deuce's Major League Bar, renamed "Santa Baby" for the holidays, is located at 3505 N. Clark and will put any Grinch in the holiday spirit. (Reservations only now through mid-January) (Please enjoy my video tour below with Alex Morales, event designer from Smartmouth Designs, and GM Jasper Robinson).

5) Mangel Florist–You wouldn't think of a hotel shop as being something very special but Mangel's is an exception and definitely worth a visit. Besides exquisite floral arrangements, the store has a delightful selection of holiday decor and gifts arranged as if by Mrs. Claus DSC05652herself. This year, the store and the hotel it lives in, The Drake, are celebrating their 100th anniversaries!

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Botanic Garden's Lightscape, a sellout in its 2nd year!

And I would've definitely included the Chicago Botanic Garden's Lightscape on this list but, for the second year in a row, the event sold out before it was even open!  The Botanic's Woman's Board hosted an exclusive first look at Lightscape on November 12. This dramatic, holiday light show installation attracted a socially distanced crowd that meandered along a mile-long, illuminated trail while enjoying hot bites and cocktails. Artistic installations included the popular Cathedral of Light, a fire garden, a colorful enchanted forest, a neon lakeside trail, illuminated waterfalls and so much more. If you don't already have tickets, enjoy a sneak peek here!

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First pic

Ashley Duchossois Joyce, Pres. of The Duchossois Family Fndtn. and Board Chair of Metropolitan Family Services w/ Ric Estrada, MFS Pres/CEO and Scott Swanson, PNC Bank of Illinois and Mpower Gala Chair

Supporters of Metropolitan Family Services’ most successful “Mpower the Night” gathered virtually to benefit children and families across greater Chicagoland on November 12. ABC 7’s Samantha Chatman served as moderator of a three-part conversation exploring the realities of violence prevention and the reasons to feel hopeful about peace. The program shared the perspectives of those directly involved in the conflicts our city faces about what resources are needed to establish and maintain peace.

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Mike O'Grady, chairman/CEO Northern Trust.

Attendees heard from members of rival street organizations in the Austin and Roseland communities, as well as leaders of city-wide street outreach initiatives including Vaughn Bryant and Bo Deal of Metropolitan Peace Initiatives

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MPO panelists with Samantha Chapman, ABC-7 Chicago consumer investigative reporter/panel moderator.

and Jalon Arthur of Chicago CRED. Metropolitan Family Services honored Northern Trust with its Legacy Award, accepted by Michael G. O’Grady, Chairman/President/CEO of Northern Trust. Event proceeds benefit multiple Metropolitan Family Services’ programs and services, which empower Chicago-area children and families to learn, to earn, to heal, and to thrive. The gala chair was Scott Swanson, President of PNC Bank Illinois. (Watch the 39th anniversary celebration here!)

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1279 N. Milwaukee Ave. in Wicker Park.

Kudos to the creators of the Chicago Makers Holiday Pop-Up Shop, Anna Romo and Monica Little! This delightful store is filled with holiday gift ideas at 1279 N. Milwaukee Avenue in Wicker Park. Handmade items include pottery, gemstone jewelry, soy wax candles, organic skincare, leather goods, greeting cards, art, woodwork, sustainable fashion, bath bombs, clay earrings, plants, locally roasted coffee and so much more. Out of the 27 local businesses displaying their wares here, 24 are woman-owned. The store also has representation from Latinx, Black, Asian and LGBTQ-owned businesses. (Open until December 31).

 

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On November 7, more than 200 supporters of the Union League Boys and Girls Clubs virtually connected from across the city and around the country to salute some remarkable Chicagoans at the non-profit’s 43rd Annual Gala Inspirational Heroes. The charity Gala

Celine Fitzgerald  Hector Perez of ULBGC

Celine Fitzgerald, ULBGC trustee/gala chair and Hector Perez, ULBGC VP Club Services.

benefits Chicago youth served by the nonprofit’s

Juan Enriquez

Juan Enriquez, ULBGC Barreto Club staff member and 2020 Hero.

critical programming that continued despite the pandemic. Guests enjoyed a three-course meal that they picked up in advance prepared by Chef Michael Ponzio of the Union League Club of Chicago (that just needed to be popped in the oven). The package included a recipe kit which allowed guests to make their own Signature Gala cocktail and a Swag Bag. To add to the festivities, there was music supplied by the non-profit group Luminarts, and guests got to capture memories in the virtual photo booth.  The Silent Auction and “Fund the Mission” campaign were supported by guests from the comfort of their own

Kathryne Miecyjak  Sean Bidzinski  Celine Fitzgerald  Albert Fliman

Kathryne Miecyjak, Sean Bidzinski, Celine Fitzgerald and Albert Fliman.
Chef Michael Ponzio

Chef Michael Ponzio.

home. Union League Boys and Girls Clubs trustee and Gala Chair Celine Fitzgerald and ULBGC Club Two Alum Brandon Molina served as co-hosts and introduced the extraordinary heroes this year that included the Greater Chicago Food Depository (GCFD), BMO Harris Bank and ULBGC Barreto Club staff member, Juan Enriquez. Fitzgerald

Brandon Molina  Juan Enriquez  Hector Perez and Jeremy Murphy

Brandon Molina, Juan Enriquez, Hector Perez and Jeremy Murphy. 

shared, “As our city shut down, the Union League Boys and Girls Clubs knew we had to carry on for our 15,000 Chicago youth. The future leaders of the next generation were counting on us and we would not disappoint them. During our darkest

Co-host Brandon Molina  Izabel Soto

hours, there were countless supporters who came to our aid with program sustainability, but there were two organizations who went above and beyond to lift us up, fellow non-profit The Greater Chicago Food Depository and BMO Harris Bank. Because of that, these organizations are our Inspirational Heroes of 2020. “ (The Union League Boys & Girls Clubs is a separate organization from the Boys & Girls Clubs of Chicago. Both are chartered by the Boys & Girls Clubs of America.

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On Saturday, November 28, Giordano Dance Chicago will present one of its signature works, "JOLT," virtually at 2 pm and 6 pm (CST). This virtual gathering will be 30 minutes long and include the electrifying videoed performance followed by a live discussion lead by choreographer, Autumn Eckman. For those familiar with GDC, you know their high level of energy and unparalleled ability to liven the spirit! For those of you new to GDC, prepare to be moved and amazed! (All details here!)

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Sherrill and SC co-chairs

SC Phantom Gala co-chairs Tina Weller, Kristine Kinder, Mary Claire Moll and Mary Lasky. (R) SC pres. Sherrill Bodine.

Kudos again to the amazing efforts always put forth by The Service Club of Chicago! Its Phantom Gala set a fundraising record, bringing in over $365,000! And mind you, this wasn't even a virtual event, it was a week-long online campaign created by co-chairs Mary Lasky, Tina Weller, Mary Claire Moll and Kristine Kinder. All of the gala proceeds will go towards the SC's Philanthropic Grantees next year. And, in another bit of good SC news, president Sherrill Bodine was re-elected for another term in 2021.

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Geoffroy van Raemdonck, Neiman Marcus Group CEO

I'm an unabashed fan of Neiman Marcus, especially the fabulous store on Michigan Avenue managed by Wendy Krimins and promoted by Tina Koegel. I've also always been a fan of the store's unique and chic Christmas catalogs that, as you know, offer those AMAZING fantasy gift selections that I wait to see each year! Fist published in 1926 as a 16-page booklet, the Neiman Marcus Christmas Book was initially intended as a Christmas card to its best

Santa

Santa introduced all of the Fantasy Gifts.

customers. Recently, I participated in a ZOOM

call that introduced this year's one-of-a-kind treasures and a presentation that was almost as cool as the gifts themselves! The show opened with some history of

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Assouline owners Prosper and Martine Assouline.

Neiman's fantasy gifts where, in 1959, the gift was the option for a customer to purchase a Black Angus steer on the hoof or sliced as steaks on a silver platter for $2,230! In 2006, Neiman Marcus offered 50 2007 BMW 6 convertibles that cost $139,000 and sold out in 92 seconds. In 2017, a Fantasy Gift that truly gave back, the Paper for Water Fantasy Gift, offered customers the option to pay $50 for

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Jonathan Adler will design a room of your choice.

an exclusive Paper for Water limited edition ornament, or $50K for a set of 250 origami ornaments, with the proceeds helping to bring

Perini

Lisa and Tom Perini of Perini Ranch Steakhouse.

fresh, clean water to children and families in need. Geoffroy van Raemdonck, Neiman Marcus Group CEO, opened the program welcoming viewers.  Prosper and Martine Assouline, owners of Assouline, introduced their offering of a custom travel library for $295,000. Jeff Kuster, CEO of Canyon Ranch, introduced A Year of Wellness for $345,000; Geneva Long, Bowlus founder/CEO, spoke about her bespoke Bowlus RV for $255,000; Neiman's fine jewelry expert Larry Pelzel and Tom Heyman offered exotic

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Geneva Long, Bowlus founder/CEO.

gems from the Oscar Heyman collection for $100K-$190K; designer Jonathan Adler introduced the opportunity to transform the room of your choice designed by him for $145K (with a $10K donation being

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The Gentleman Milliner James Keith.

made to the nonprofits Aid to Artisans and the Boys & Girls Clubs); a 5-night wine country escape to the Montage Healdsburg resort and wine for a year from vintner Jesse Katz for $215K; a collection of custom-made chapeaus from Keith and James for $95K; an escape to Alaska for 5 at the Sheldon Chalet with a private chef, glacier exploration tour and a meet-and-greet with owner/pilot Don Sheldon for $345K; and last but not least, Tom and Lisa Perini introduced a final gift offering, a trip to their James Beard Award-winning Perini Ranch Steakhouse with a lot of bells and whistles. Congrats Neiman Marcus on another year of fabulous Fantasy Gifts!

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Abruscato_Tony

Mr. Green Tony Abruscato.

Everyone has heard of the popular food trucks but, lately, it's a special green truck that is attracting attention. The Plant Truck Chicago is a mobile garden boutique working with special-needs programs to distribute plant material in underserved communities

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Plant Truck Chicago!

and more. The Truck, from Mr. Green Tony Abruscato, is experiencing such great success in the neighborhoods that they're in need of a second vehicle! Here are the stats from its first 12 months: 2,000+ miles driven; 20+ Chicagoland neighborhoods visited; 500+ hot meals to COVID-19 positive shelters delivered; 3,100+ vegetable, herb, and flowering plants to under-served

Tony Abruscato plant truck

Plant Truck Chicago

communities donated; 1,500+ house plants to help fund our continued outreach efforts and programming sold; and 8,000+ plant lovers and newbies engaged. As founder of nonprofit Get Growing Foundation, Abruscato works to inspire, educate and motivate the next generation of gardeners through community outreach and educational programs. Follow his adventures, check out upcoming locations and/or donate to help fund a second vehicle here!

Chicago ShakesMark your calendars for a virtual pop-up market featuring one-of–a-kind goods in support of local theater-makers and community artisans coming Dec. 3-6. Twenty-five Chicago artisans will showcase more than 200 homemade wares in an online pop-up shop. From jewelry to ceramics, knit-work, and more, this is not only a one-stop-shop for bespoke and beautifully made gifts, but a celebration of the talent and resilience of our city’s creative community. All of the participating makers are members of the creative sector, including onstage performers, backstage technicians, designers, and community artist partners from the Theater’s annual Chicago Shakespeare Theater in the Parks program who have been impacted by the COVID-19 industry shutdown. One hundred percent of proceeds from the market will go directly to the artisans. (Details here!)

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Unti99tledI'm so excited about a new collaboration for my Candid Candace TV channel! Our first episode is out now, with

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With Troy Mairs and Elizabeth McNally Mairs.

thanks to this fabulous new team: Troy Mairs (cinematographer), Tracey DiBuono (creative director) and Elizabeth Mairs (production designer). (If not a subscriber, please sign up here!) Our first segment covered event designer Derrick Taylor's new holiday pop-up experience, FA LA LA (mentioned above). We also shot at York Furrier to

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With Tracey DiBuono (ZZAZZ Productions) at York Furrier.

promote the upcoming virtual Mistletoe Medley (themed "Home for the Holidays") hosted by the Oak Brook Chapter of the Infant Welfare Auxiliary. Produced by ZZAZZ Productions, the event will be held on Sunday, Dec. 6 from 7-8 pm with longtime host Alison Rosati. The virtual fashion show/decor event will include segments from York Furs, RedE Boutique and designer Peach Carr and support the work of the Infant Welfare Society of Chicago which serves families in need through its Angel Harvey Family Health Center in Logan Square. (To register for the virtual event, click here!)  

"I was never the type to sit back and wait and I really had no

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Dori Wilson (Dori Wilson PR) filming "My Start Story."

fear," says Dori Wilson (founder of Dori Wilson Public Relations). Dori was the featured subject of the recent, prestigious "My Start Story" which profiles successful women like comedian Carol Burnett, Diane Ademu-John (screenwriter for "Empire"), Treva Silverman (screenwriter for "The Mary Tyler Moore Show"), singer Dionne Warwick, pastry chef Gale Gand, Ina Pinkney (chef- Breakfast Queen), Chaz Ebert, Christie Hefner (former Playboy CEO), Janice Jackson (CEO Chicago Public Schools), Brenda Robinson (entertainment attorney Brenda Robinson), and IL Supreme Court Justice Anne Burke (co-founder of Special Olympics), to name a few! What perfect company for our Dori! (See story here!)  

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Sydney SadickJoin the Costume Council of the Chicago History Museum for a delightful afternoon on ZOOM with Sydney Sadick, author and NBC Today Show contributor, Tuesday, December 8 (noon to 1 pm). Her recent book, "Aim High: How to Style Your Life and Achieve Your Goals" will be a topic very worthy of discussion for ALL of us! Details here!  

The Chicago Public Library Foundation Awards will be held Libraryvirtually this year on December 9 at 6:30 pm (CST). In the past, this ginormous event was held at the UIC Pavilion with over 1000 people in attendance. I always loved seeing the stage filled with Chicago authors and the one-and-only Bill Kurtis serving as the emcee.

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Donna La Pietra, CPLF honoree 2020.

This year will be a bit different but equally special since the honorees are: Donna La Pietra (who will be honored with the Inaugural Civic Award); Nate Marshall (author/playwright/performer/educator/rapper and more who will be honored with the 21st Century Award) and Isabel Wilkerson (Pulitzer Prize-winning author, who will be presented with the Carl Sandburg Literary Award). No ticket is required and gifts at all levels will be welcome. (Register here)

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Derrick Taylor (and elves not shown) with Michelle Durpetti and Collin Pierson for a Christmas Decor Ambush.

With all of the sadness surrounding our restaurant community now, here's a happy story. It was a Christmas

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Gene & Georgetti's festive new tent at Franklin and Illinois.

Ambush by Derrick Taylor and his band of elves at Gene & Georgetti's on November 24. They surprised Michelle Durpetti and Collin Pierson with a holiday makeover for the restaurant, decorating G & G's brand new tent and windows with garlands, wreaths and greenery donated by City Grange! Friends helping friends–in good times and bad–now THAT is a story worth telling.

 
Even though this hasn't been an ideal year, there is still much to Thanksgiving saying be thankful for. I hope you and your families were able to celebrate in whatever way was safest for you. I'm thankful for: Good health (for Chuck and our loved ones); to have so many wonderful friends who are there when I need them; that so many nonprofits didn't suffer as badly as they feared with their virtual events; that we have food on the table and a roof on our heads….And lastly, I'm so grateful that this election is over and for YOU.
 
Love, as always,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com
 
P.S. Kalen's Thanksgiving bomb leftovers anyone? Wait for it…..

 

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Filed under Books, Chicago, Culture, Current Affairs, Fashion, Film, Food and Drink, Music, Sports, Television, Travel

EVEN THOUGH WE’RE BETTER TOGETHER, MANY CHICAGO NONPROFITS’ TAKING VIRTUAL VICTORY LAPS

Plus: Apparel Industry Foundation REVS UP; Friends of Prentice "Together at Home"; "Sounds of Celebration: An Evening at Home with the CSO"; "Pulling Back the Curtain: The Nutcracker"; WINGS' Purple Tie Ball; CASL celebrates Bernie; Streeterville Week; Palm Beach happenings; Service Club's Phantom Gala pivots to victory; Shannon Rovers bring smiles roving around Rush Street; The Holiday Shoppe; Mangel's and the Drake celebrating 100; Eleanor the Musical streaming soon; DMen Tap taps into the spirit of Christkindlmarket; A Covid vaccine?; A surprise holiday pop-up; Maria rules the pulpit too; PAWS Chicago's virtual Fur Ball; One Tail at a Time's virtual Houndstooth Ball; Doorstep Divas Chicago-the Holiday Edition; Jennifer and Erin's happy news; Wings to Cure cancer; This & That; Videos and SOOOO much more!

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Rev Up honoree Sherrill Bodine accepts her award from designer/AIBI board president Lauren Lein.

The Apparel Industry Foundation hosted its annual Rev Up! fashion show/fundraiser virtually on October 29 honoring author/philanthropist Sherrill Bodine and featuring designs

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AIBI executive director Ambar Campos (R) and Kat Anderson (AIBI member services coordinator).

from seven top local designers. The exciting show was broadcast simultaneously on Facebook Live and YouTube Live as well as on the Tiltify donation platform (which remains open for donations through November 15). From beginning to end, this high powered fashion show

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Model Atelier designer Robin Harris (L) with one of her models.

was flawless, thanks to the production by Tracey Tarantino DiBuono of ZZAZZ Productions and filming by Francis Son. AIBI executive director Ambar Campos (who has been with AIBI for decades since she was a young girl!) and Kat

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Glam model wearing Elda de la Rosa.

Anderson (AIBI member services coordinator) planned the event to perfection, with a great script and creative filming ideas. I was proud to host this hour long event, which was filmed (in part) at AIBI's office at 4255 N. Knox. The fashion films were shot at Pat and

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Kristine Kinder and designer Al Menotti.

Joe Perillo's Bentley Gold Coast (which is typically the venue of choice for their live in-person events). Fashions segments included designs by Elda de la Rosa who

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Designer Lauren Lein (2nd from R) with her models.

presented her romantic Esperanza (Hope) Collection. Lauren Lein (Cavanaugh) (who is also AIBI board president) showcased her collection titled "Lauren: at Home, Work, and Play," whimsical designs with an artful,

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Designer Peach Carr's whimsical designs.

feminine aesthetic. Model Atelier designer Robin Harris focused on fashions for tall women with her collection titled "Vertically Blessed in the City." Designer Peach Carr burst onto the fashion scene as a cheeky, self-taught designer from Chicago

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Rebellion handbag designer Stephanie Wheat (2nd from L) with models.

on the hit reality show Project Runway (Season 8 and All Stars Season 2). Drawing from her 60s and 70s childhood, her collection was inspired by paper dolls. Designer Daryl Sneed displayed his fashion vision between two brands, Ricorso (which focuses on

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Designer Daryl Sneed with his models.

essentials with impeccable tailoring) and Soundoff (a line that explores the multi-cultural street scene in Chicago). Al Menotti, designer for Menotti Couture, has been designing women's fashions since 1985 and his collection featured timeless designs with clean, simple lines. Rebellion designer Stephanie

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Designer Elda de la Rosa.

Wheat's handbags are made from upholstery grade leathers and beautiful fur pelts and are light weight and comfortable to carry with an edge of modern fashion. Before Sherrill accepted her honor

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It was an honor to host this fabulous event! Thank you AIBI!

from AIBI board president/designer Lauren Lein, several friends congratulated her via video. They included Laurie Demma Davis, Mary Clare Moll, Tracey DiBuono, Lezley Hodes (who called her a "change agent in stilettos"), Lauren Lein, Karen Peters, Myra Reilly, Tina

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CHEERS to all who supported and donated! Thank YOU!

Weller, Susan Gohl, Sally Jo Pfaff, Beena Joseph, moi and others. AIBI was created by the late Mayor Harold Washington in 1987 as a Delegate Agency of the City of Chicago and remains today the only official organization in Illinois specifically dedicated to the needs of the sewn products and manufacturing industries. AIBI nurtures the Chicago design and creative industries through a series of innovative programs that allow today’s dreamers to be the design stars of tomorrow. (For more info or to make a donation, click here!).

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FOP ED Kristen Field and FOP board pres Michael Borders.

FOP executive director Kristen Field and Michael Borders, FOP board president.

Friends of Prentice (FOP), a non-profit organization working in partnership with Northwestern Medicine Prentice Women’s Hospital to fund innovative and leading-edge research benefiting the lives of women, raised nearly $600,000 at its annual fundraising benefit, themed Still Together, At Home. Due to COVID-19, this is the first year that the gala was held virtually on Saturday, October 24. The

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FOP emcee Val Warner.

dollars raised during the virtual gala will go towards awarding doctors and clinicians grants needed to continue their life saving research across all areas of women’s health. Mike Borders, Friends of Prentice Board President, along with Executive Director Kristen Field, Untitle99dco-hosted the event with special appearances from gala co-chairs Donna Socol and Shannon Flavin. Close to 1,000 guests tuned in from the comfort of their own homes and “hosted” a virtual or socially distanced table. This year’s gala featured one of a kind online Belinda changauctions, music from DJ Megan Taylor and the Dr. Bombay band (with my favorites, Lee Golub on drums and singer Molly Callinan) as well as a cocktail hour led by two-time James Beard award-winner and mixologist Belinda Chang. Windy City Live co-host Val Warner served as emcee for the event that

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Shannon Flavin, and friends–event co-chair.

encouraged guests to ‘come together’ virtually to honor the healthcare community while raising critical funds for medical research. In addition, the frontline health heroes, clinicians and physicians who have received grants from Friends of Prentice shared highlights of their research and the positive impact the funding has had on the research conducted within their respective

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Dr. Bombay, Lee Golub and band, performed.

areas of women’s health. "We are so humbled and grateful for everyone who showed support to FOP by attending our virtual gala,” said Borders. “This year’s gala definitely looked and felt different, but it was a successful night of not only celebrating all our

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Singer Molly Callinan performed with Dr. Bombay during the event.

healthcare heroes, but also celebrating the mission of Friends of Prentice – to provide crucial seed money to brilliant clinicians and researchers who are shaping the future of women’s health care.” Since 1983, Friends of Prentice has raised over $20M and awarded grants to more than 100 researchers and clinical programs. FOP’s annual grants initiative has funded projects in the areas of COVID-19 research, gynecologic oncology, mental health, heart disease, disparities in access to care, diabetes, HIV, uterine and pelvic medicine, genetic biomarker research, home health care outreach and more. Funds raised during the gala go directly to research, education, and patient care programs at Prentice. (To make a donation or learn more about the nonprofit, click here!

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Cellist Yo-Yo Ma performs with Civic Orchestra member Dara Hankins.

The CSO's recent "Sounds of Celebration: An Evening at Home with the CSO", a virtual event, was a blockbuster raising over $910,000 (and counting) on October 31! Musical stars from around the world reflected on what makes the CSO so special with superstar cellist Yo-Yo Ma creating an evening highlight during his duet with fellow cellist Dara Hankins, a Civic Orchestra member. Chiming in from Ravenna, Italy, CSO music director Riccardo Muti said, "I'm waiting until the orchestra can be together again…My family, my music family, is the Chicago Symphony so practically, I am sort of a father without the family around." He thinks the reunion will be "like a miracle" with the "feelings of every person coming together to create something really magical."  Other contributors to the special evening included jazz pianist Herbie Hancock, trumpeter/composer Wynton Marsalis and pianist Mitsuko Uchida. The evening concluded with Robert Chen and principal cellist John Sharp performing Ravel's Sonata for Violin and Cello.  

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The Joffrey Ballet's Ashley Wheater, Marie B. Galvin artistic director, took us behind-the-scenes of Christopher Wheeldon's "The Nutcracker."

The Women's Board of The Joffrey Ballet hosted a virtual event, "Pulling Back the Curtain: The Nutcracker" on Friday, November 7. The 45 minute (afternoon) event was a look back at the last 5 years of Christopher Wheeldon's "The Nutcracker" and allowed viewers into a world of magic, mind-blowing Joffreycreativity and artistic genius. When the Joffrey first introduced this production in 2016, I was still in love with the old version and couldn't imagine how it could be improved upon. Boy, was I ever wrong. Wheeldon, along with an amazing team, completely

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The Nutcracker choreographer Christopher Wheeldon.

reimagined the "Nut," moving the setting to Chicago in 1892 during the construction of the famed World's Columbian Exposition. And the protagonist, Marie, was no longer a rich girl but rather an immigrant worker's child, a dreamer who has very

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WB member/co-chair Marcie Wright.

little but through an epic, magical Christmas journey, is to gain a great deal. The Great Impresario character was actually based on architect Daniel Burnham, who was the director of works for the Exposition. The story was written by brilliant children's book author/illustrator Brian Selznick, ("The Invention of Hugo

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WB member/ co-chair Jessica Jecmen.

Cabret" and others) and beautifully narrated by Judy Hsu, ABC 7 Chicago. Ashley Wheater, the Marie B. Galvin artistic director, opened the show welcoming viewers along with co-chairs Melinda LaGrange, Jessica Jecmen and Marcie Wright. In interviews with company artists, we heard from Anais Bueno, Dylan Gutierrez, Dara Holmes, Victoria Jaiani, Yumi

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Author Brian Selznick.

Kanazawa and Greig Matthews. The behind-the-scenes footage was breathtaking and made me wish we could see it onstage for this holiday season. And the scenes of Wheeldon with the dancers showed you what a genius choreographer he truly is. Proceeds from this event will go toward the Joffrey’s Crisis Stabilization Fund, a $12M initiative to provide for the continued health of the organization despite the COVID-19 pandemic. I hope you will consider a donation to keep this vital arts organization alive and thriving. Thank you Joffrey for this peek behind the curtain!

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Mike and Melissa Canning, lead sponsors of the event.

At the 20th annual WINGS' Purple Tie Ball on October 3, 400 attendees came together virtually to end domestic violence, celebrate survivors and support victims. The event featured the band Maggie Speaks and guests listened to impassioned speeches about the scourge of domestic violence and the ways that WINGS

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WINGS Supporters Jared and Kevin Wasserman

is working to break the cycle in the Chicagoland area. Rebecca Darr, WINGS President/CEO said, “We are overwhelmed by the incredible generosity of the attendees of the Purple Tie Ball. Your generosity will support so many families who are escaping domestic violence.” Jillvona accepted the David K. Hill award, an award given to an outstanding WINGS graduate each year. 80 guests received a "Gala in a Bag," delivered by the Entertaining Company that included dinner, wine, hand sanitizer, chocolates and a program book. The funds raised, over $325,000, will help support WINGS' mission to provide housing, integrated services, education and advocacy to end domestic violence.

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CASL honoree Bernie Wong.

On October 29, the Chinese American Service League (CASL) honored its founder and former President Bernie Wong, with the Lifetime Achievement Award during its annual Gala (presented virtually this year by the Sue Ling Gin Foundation). Starting with two

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CASL virtual event emcee, Judy Hsu, ABC 7 Chicago.

donated desks and chairs in 1978, Bernie grew CASL into the largest social service agency in the Midwest dedicated to serving Chinese Americans and immigrants. Bernie has been named in numerous lists of influential people in Chicago and beyond, even being awarded the “Champion for Change” award at the White House in 2012 by President Barack Obama. The event was emceed by ABC-7's Judy Hsu (co-chair of CASL's Advisory Board) and included congratulatory videos from  Father Francis Li, Esther Wong, Kenneth Gunn (Acting Commissioner at Chicago Human Relations), Ling and Francis Leung, Pauline Pak, Lois Chan, Amy Wishnick and many others. Congrats Bernie for your lifetime of service!

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New York Social Diary's Blair Sabol casting her vote in Scottsdale.

I don't know if you read the New York Social Diary but it's one of my favorites, especially writer Blair Sabol. Her wit and wisdom is always spot on and I particularly loved her latest column that pretty much nails the way some of us might be feeling now (at least it does for me). "An endless fatigue has set in that is making us feel lax even with last week’s viral resurgence. We are losing interest, so our masks are slipping below our nose and our vigilance is faltering. It’s getting old and we are getting older. Remember last March when we were all in it to win it?  Nightly we banged pots in our cities from apartment windows for all medical first responders. That seems years ago. We’ve gone from cheers to jeers. We’ve morphed from impatience to rage to exhausted disinterest." But we're trying Blair! (Read her full column here).

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Robert Caravaggi poolside at Swiftys

Swifty's Robert Caravaggi poolside in Palm Beach. (NYSD photo)

I found it interesting to learn that a few of NYC's hotspot restaurants are adding new locations in Palm Beach. Swifty's, our favorite, has completely decamped to PB where it has found a second life under the watchful eye of Robert Caravaggi (lunch and dinner poolside only for now). Le Bilboquet will be opening there soon and La Goulue Palm Beach has already opened for dinner only.

Chicago Star Media will host its first Streeterville Week, a community-focused event that will spotlight and support local businesses, all of which will be offering exclusive deals. The event was created to lift community spirits, boost morale and encourage residents and visitors to shop locally. Join them (and Streeterville Weekme) for a fun-filled kick-off event at Ogden Plaza (300 E. North Water) from 12:30 to 2 pm. A series of deals will be on offer during the week at gyms, hotels and other neighborhood businesses plus special menus at restaurants. For the kick-off, Marley Kayden of "Chicago's Best" on WGN-TV will serve as emcee, which will be live-streamed on the Chicago Star Media Facebook page and open to the public. The program, designed to support local artists and brighten this normally gray area of Streeterville, features rotating appearances from Chicago performers and street musicians, including actor Vikram Konkimalla — known for his role as Tiny Tim in The Goodman Theatre's "A Christmas Carol "— and Andrew David, a street performer whose powerful cover of “Hallelujah” in Chicago’s empty streets went viral this spring. To ensure the safety of attendees and performers during the walk-by event, masks are required, signs indicating social distancing will be placed in front of performers. Each performer will display a QR code to receive tips from passersby. Participating Streeterville Week restaurants will include Beatrix Market, Tallboy Taco, Pinstripes, Cupitol Coffee & Eatery, Labriola, Pinched on the River, Robert’s Pizza and Dough Company, Rosebud Steakhouse, Saigon Sisters and Yolk, among others. A complete list of businesses and offers can be found online here. Chicago Star Media, which publishes Streeterville News, New Eastside News and West Loop News, is dedicated to providing a positive, informative and community-building presence in the neighborhoods it serves. 

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Shannon RoversThe restaurants in and around Gibson's and LuxBar got a treat Wednesday night, courtesy of the Shannon Rovers who marched and played much to the delight of diners. Their intent was to "bring a smile to people's faces and a little happiness during these trying times." They succeeded.

 

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Maria Pappas at Holy Trinity Church during Polish Heritage Month.Kudos to Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas, whose boundless energy has now taken her into the pulpit! Recently, Maria delivered a stem-winding speech at Holy Trinity Church during Polish Heritage Month (watch it here) and she went head-to-head with radio talk show host Maze Jackson, where she discussed how taxpayers can protect their homes and find lost owed back taxes. She, and her office, analyzed 80 million pieces of data! #MariaforPresident

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SC co-chairs

SC co-chairs Tina Weller, Kristine Kinder, Mary Clare Moll and Mary Lasky.

Congrats to these beautiful women who were the co-chairs for The Service Club of Chicago's Phantom Gala, Mary Lasky, Tina Weller, Mary Claire Moll and Kristine Kinder.  This event is usually a very festive black-tie affair, but this year it was held virtually from October 12-22. The ladies/SC members helped raise much needed funds for the nonprofit's philanthropic grant program. (To donate and learn more, click here!) The organization's next event will be a virtual wine tasting tour "through Lombardy and Tuscany" on November 19. Full details here!

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IMG_6989Well, I've begun decorating for Christmas, don't judge. I think that, for this year especially, you can't start too

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The Holiday Shoppe at the Peninsula.

soon. I love the fact that WLIT-FM is already playing holiday tunes now too! I've got some wonderful ideas for where you can find some holiday cheer! The Holiday Shoppe at The Peninsula is like a Christmas jewel box in the old space where Pierrot Gourmet used to be at the corner of State and Superior. It's been brought to life by Kehoe Designs (Tom Kehoe) and his Green Market Garden. Inside, you'll find a stunning, designer-inspired selection of seasonal home decor and gifts. Also, watch for Green Market Garden coming to the Lakeshore East, Lakeview and West Loop neighborhoods with a selection of indoor and outdoor trees, plants, flowers and seasonal arrangements. (Details here!)

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Unt9itledAnother wonderful way to get into the holiday spirit is a family-friendly viewing of Eleanor's Very Merry Christmas Wish-The Musical, which will be available to stream November 27–December 27. Adding to the fun is the availability of two immersive Eleanor's Very Merry Christmas Party in a Box options, ranging in price from $45-$60 which will contain items inspired by the production– a copy of the book, a keepsake ornament, Eleanor's own stationary and pencil for letters to Santa, holiday hats, cookie cutter with recipe card, Twinkle's reindeer ring toss game and so much more! Denise McGowan Tracy, executive producer, said, "Our wish is to keep the magic of the holidays sparkling in the eyes of children no matter what challenges we face this year." The musical tells the story of a rag doll named Eleanor who lives in the magical world of the North Pole. Despite her love for her family there, she is wishing for something very special and writes a letter to Santa. And so the adventure begins! Ho! Ho! Ho! (Details here!)

  

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DMen Tap will keep Christkindlmarket's beloved tradition alive this year!

As we now know, the Christkindlmarket will be held online this year (see website here, through Dec. 31), but you can still get the experience thanks to DMen Tap, an Avondale restaurant that will offer a similar experience with traditional German food, sipping hot drinks from one of the festival's signature mugs and even a photo backdrop for Insta pics. Starting November

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DMen Tap's food truck.

27 (and running through Christmas Eve), DMen Tap's food truck will be in front of the restaurant at 2849 W. Belmont Ave. People will be able to walk up and grab hot cocoa, cider, bratwursts, schnitzel sandwiches,

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The traditional Christkindlmarket mugs will be for sale too!

pretzels and raclette cheese sandwiches — food and drinks traditionally found at Christkindlmarket. Gluhwein, or mulled wine, will be available for carryout from the bar inside. The DMen Tap crew will also sell Christkindlmarket mugs from past years, which have become a hot-ticket item. A photo backdrop will be set up so people can take photos with their mugs, also a tradition at Christkindlmarket. With the pop-up, the owners of DMen Tap are looking to keep the holiday tradition alive and bring in revenue during the pandemic, which has restaurants and bars across Chicago struggling to survive. What a great idea! I just can't wait!

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With Derrick Taylor and Santa.

A BIG holiday pop-up experience, "FA, LA, LA",  will be coming to Taylor & Co. Events (Derrick Taylor, 2819 W. Montrose) on Tuesday, December 1….think Santa granting wishes, Christmas decor galore including a 20' tree, professional photo opps, wreath-making classes, a warehouse sale and so much more! Check out their website for all the details here. In the meantime, enjoy this video of the work in progress!  

 

 

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Fur ball co-chairs

PAWS Chicago virtual Fur Ball co-chairs Phillip Emigh, Angie DeMars and Bruce Haas.

Join PAWS Chicago in your best black-tie attire from your home on Friday, November 13 at 7:45pm for a virtual FUR BALL program

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PAWS Chicago's virtual Fur Ball will be November13, 7:45 pm.

that will help PAWS raise important life-saving funds so they can save more homeless dogs and cats! The program will feature a live auction, a Bid to Save Lives mission moment, stories of our Adoptable Pets and music by Maggie Speaks!  Congrats in advance to the event's adorable co-chairs Angie DeMars, Phillip Emigh, Bruce Haas and Tinsley Mortimer.  (To register, please click here and make sure to check out the exciting auction items too!)

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One Tail Nov. 13One Tail at a Time, another beloved No-Kill rescue, will host its 12th annual Houndstooth Ball virtually on Friday, November 13, 6-9 pm. I'll miss not seeing these

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Heather Owen, founder/ED One Tail at a Time.

adorable homeless dogs (and kittens) up close and personal but I hope you will consider supporting this wonderful shelter's life-saving efforts by tuning in for FREE here! (Be sure to check out their at-home Celebration Kits too, ranging in price from $35–$1000!) Pet-loving philanthropists will be coming together to celebrate the record-breaking 1,500 animals saved this year by OTAT! Executive director Heather Owen said, "The outpouring of support One Tail at a Time and homeless pets have received in this pandemic has been nothing short of remarkable. Chicago rallied and opened their homes and hearts to hundreds of dogs during quarantine, enabling us to save more lives than ever before."

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Jennifer N  Pritzker (Left) and Erin E  Solaro (Right)

Newly married Jennifer N. Pritzker and Erin E. Solaro.

Huge congrats to Jennifer N. Pritzker and Erin E. Solaro who were married in a private ceremony in Chicago on October 31. Ms. Pritzker is President & CEO of Tawani Enterprises, Lieutenant Colonel U.S. Army, Retired, and Founder and Chairwoman of the Pritzker Military Museum & Library.  Ms. Solaro is currently employed as a sales executive for a medical device manufacturer. She is also the author of "Women in the Line of Fire" (Seal Press, 2006), and a veteran herself. Congrats, love wins! (And thanks for all you do in the community Jennifer!)

 

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Molly and Caitlin

The Doorstep Divas Caitlin Simone Buffa and Molly Callinan. 

The Doorstep Divas Chicago want to rock your holiday world! These two vocal dynamos have created a festive holiday show that will make you want to don your Santa hats ASAP! They're available to appear in your virtual gala videos; in person (socially distanced, of course); at holiday parties; ANY occasion– live, in-person or pre-recorded, at your pleasure! Congrats to superstar singers/artists Molly Callinan and Caitlin Simone Buffa for always bringin' da joy! (Contact them here: hchords1@yahoo.com

 

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Hippocratic Gala  Wings to Cure  Nov. 14  virtual  6 pm.The Hippocratic Cancer Research Foundation's "Wings to Cure" Gala will be virtual on Saturday, November 14 from 6-7:30 pm. You will hear from doctors, cancer survivors

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Eleni Bousis, along with friends and supporters created HCRF, shown here with Dr. Leonidas Platanias, director Lurie Cancer Center.

and celebrity guests and have the chance to bid in spectacular live and silent auctions. HCRF's mission is to find and implement new treatments for cancer patients by promoting and supporting breakthrough cancer research at the Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center of Northwestern University. Over half of all men and one-third of all women in the United States will develop cancer during their lifetime. The Foundation's goal is to discover and implement new treatments in order to eliminate this dreaded disease and save lives.  (Once registered, a link to view the virtual event will be sent to you on the day of. Details here.)

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PfizerIf reports are true that Pfizer has found a vaccine for Covid (that will be ready by the end of the month?!), our collective prayers have been answered! I know we probably won't go back to "normal." Quite frankly, I'm not even sure what this means anymore. I do miss all of our in-person events, that's a given, but I also miss the little things like lingering in bookstores (when I could find one) or spending hours wandering around the make-up section in a department store and actually TRYING THINGS ON. All the little things that I used to love to do seems like it happened in another lifetime, like living in the "Matrix." Wearing a mask takes away any joy anyway because, for some reason, when I'm

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Bonnie Spurlock and Judy Tullman with hubbys Jim and Howard at a PAWS Chicago Beach Party.

wearing one I can't see, hear or think. I know people are edgy now and, in some cases, aimless not knowing what's going to happen next. Many are looking for anything to do just to keep busy…my friends Bonnie Spurlock and Judy Tullman find joy volunteering at PAWS Chicago. Now THAT is something truly

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Just for fun…..

worthwhile. I'm keeping busy writing The Blog (thanks to all my new subscribers too!), writing for Chicago Now and pondering some possibilities. I had a blast hosting the Apparel Industry Board Foundation's Rev Up event and would like to do more of that. I'd also like to discuss my events and what's going on in Chicago on some media outlets. I'm looking forward to a new venture with Tracey Tarantino DiBuono and videographer Troy Mairs that will be fun and fulfilling. In every case, I will continue to be a voice for Chicago, its charities, its happenings and whatever else is exciting and makes our city shine. Yes, despite Covid, the future is looking very bright. I can't wait to see what's around the next corner, hopefully a cure!

Stay safe and sane out there!

Love,

Candace

Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. Animals saving animals……

 

3 Comments

Filed under Chicago, Culture, Current Affairs, Fashion, Film, Food and Drink, Music, Television, Travel, Web/Tech

FUN, FASHION AND PHILANTHROPY: THE CHICAGO LIGHTHOUSE PRESENTS FLAIR

Plus: Misericordia's Heart of Mercy Ball; A Sterling Event with Dr. Sandy, Opal and friends; Luminart's "Next Begins Now," a virtual success; John helps shine a light on the 1stGEN Scholarship Gala; Lightscape at the Botanic; The Baton Show Lounge celebrates 51; AIBI Revs UP!; The Joffrey Ballet "pulls back the curtain"; Zemeckis' The Witches on HBO; Howard Brown's Big Orange Ball; Pleasure for All CBD Playboy; International Playboy Bunny Reunion news; ULBGC Heroes Gala; Whitney, Tracey, Elda and Michael are ALL WINNING!; Fox 32 with our SYLVIA; Goodbye Tribune; This & That; Lotsa Videos and SOOO much more!

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Flair co-chairs Sheree Schimmer Valukas and Sherrill Bodine.

The Chicago Lighthouse's greatly anticipated FLAIR fashion show on October 16 was a virtual delight. It literally took a village, albeit a very socially distanced one, to bring this important mission and vision to life. Designers and retailers showcased their looks in pre-taped segments that went

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Elizabeth McNally Mairs wears dress by MyStylist Macy's.

off without a hitch! This is all thanks to the talent and skills of my event co-host and show producer, Tracey DiBuono and her ZZAZZ Productions team, along with Kevin Sullivan and Francisco Perez. Huge kudos to Sheree Valukas and Sherrill Bodine who have expertly co-chaired this show for the past 4 years! The event's fashion segments were filmed at Tufano's Vernon Park Tap (1073 W. Vernon Park) with an edgy, cool urban backdrop (and filmed all in ONE day)! Male models

With Dr. Janet Szlyk (pres-ceo)

With Dr. Janet Szlyk (Lighthouse pres/CEO) and my co-host (and show producer) Tracey Tarantino DiBuono.

strutted down the middle of Vernon Park Place as a drone caught their moves from above. Models Sheree Valukas, Elyse Leavy, The Lighthouse's Lindsay Inglis and Elizabeth Mairs even climbed onto the roof (wearing designs by RedE) for dramatic shots from that angle. The creativity was truly off the charts. The scenes were all

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Bridal segment by Lauren Lein with models Mary Lasky, Sally Jo Morris Pfaff and Sherrill Bodine.

captured on video by the uber-talented Troy Mairs along with his model/wife Elizabeth McNally Mairs. Participating stores and designers included Al Menotti Couture, Lauren Lein Shop, RedE Boutique, Mira Couture, MyStylist Macy's, Contessa Bottega, Etcetera, The Carlisle Collection and St.

Shaun Rajah Johnathan Grabill  Mark Olley  Scott Bobek and Daniel Martin.

Model Men Shaun Rajah, Jonathan Grabill, Mark Olley, Scott Bobek and Daniel Martin wearing MyStylist Macy's Men.

John. These fashion experts all brought their A-games as the clothing provided fit each model to perfection as well as suited their personalities. I was proud to co-host this virtual event with Tracey at The Lighthouse's pre-school on Roosevelt Road. It was so touching to see the teachers engaging their students virtually

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Kristine Kinder wearing Contessa Bottega.

through their computers. As I walked down the hallway to the production area, I saw teachers dancing, singing and praising their students through computer screens. The enthusiasm, love and dedication filled

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Designer Al Menotti with Felicia Winiecki (wearing his design).

the hallways of this haven of hope and it was so powerful to see. Dr. Janet Szlyk (Chicago Lighthouse president/CEO) spoke about the organization and how, over the past year, The Lighthouse "has come together to succeed during this tough time and shine like the beacon that we are." She talked about the org's employment services and job training programs and spotlighted staff members Kalari Girtley Jackson, Carly Englander and Jessica Smith, who are thriving in various positions within the organization. Kalari debuted the OrCam MyEye Pro, an amazing piece of technology that empowers people who are blind, enabling them to discern

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Bobbi Panter, Sheree Valukas (event co-chair), Yvonne Fitzgibbon and Liz Teasley wearing St. John. 

people, places, things in front of them and tell time (without a watch!), among other remarkable features.

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Sandy Murillo, Lighthouse development assistant, wearing MyStylist Macy's. 

Dr. Janet introduced Gaelynn Lea, a dynamic advocate for the disabled community who was born with a genetic condition that causes complications in the development of bones and limbs. She sang an original song (she also plays the violin) and is a past winner of the NPR Tiny Desk Contest. Event coordinator/friend Kevin Sullivan zoomed in from Marchesa where a fabulous Watch Party was being attended by about 34 guests. Owner Kathryn Alvera created a stunning environment, with gilded fall decor and even a

Kathy Cook  Hanah Bae  Heather Jane Johnston and Sherry Abrahams in Etcetera.

Kathy Cook, Hanah Bae, Heather Jane Johnston and Sherry Abrahams wearing Etcetera.

red carpet out front. Kevin expertly conducted a live auction raising much needed funds. Another Watch Party was hosted in River Forest by Lisa Birmingham. Participating models included

Mia Kapica  Lauren Annese  Nikki Friar  Claire Burke in Mira Couture.

Mia Kapica, Lauren Annese, Nikki Friar and Claire Burke in Mira Couture.

Heather Jane Johnston, Sherry Abrahams, Kathy Cook and Hanah Bae (who all wore Carlisle and Etcetera designs); Mark Olley, Shaun Rajah (of The Drake), Jonathan Grabill, Scott Bobek and Daniel Martin (from Marchesa) (who wore Macy's Men); Bobbi Panter, Sheree Valukas, Yvonne Fitzgibbon

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With Frances Renk, Sandy Murillo, Sherry Lea Holson and Elizabeth McNally Mairs wearing MyStylist Macy's.

and Liz Teasley (who were decked out in St. John); Kristine Kinder, Sherrill Bodine, Whitney Reynolds and Rhonda Liesenfelt (who wore Contessa Bottega); Felicia Winiecki, Kristine Kinder and Sherry

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With Bobbi Panter, Kathy O'Malley Piccone, event co-host/show producer Tracey DiBuona and Helena Kontos (Contessa Bottega) at Marchesa Watch Party.

Lea Holson (wearing Menotti Couture); Sally Jo Morris (who wore her own wedding dress designed by Lauren Lein), Sherrill Bodine and Mary Lasky (all wearing Lauren Lein bridalwear); Sandy Murillo (of The Lighthouse), Elizabeth McNally Mairs, Frances Renk, Sherry Lea Holson and yours truly (wore looks created by MyStylist Macy's); Lauren

The Lighthouse's Carly and Kalari with Macy's MyStylist.

The Lighthouse's Carly Englander (L) and Kalari Girtley Jackson (R) with a Macy's MyStylist.

Annese and Claire Burke (of The Lighthouse), Mia Kapica and Nikki Friar (of Marchesa) (wore looks by Mira Couture). Since 1906, The Chicago Lighthouse has been a leader in serving the blind, visually impaired,

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Kevin Sullivan, Al Menotti and Francisco Perez.

disabled and Veteran communities. This remarkable nonprofit serves more than 67,000 people annually and has pivoted expertly to virtual programming so their children can still be educated and engaged every day in their homes. Over $40,000 was raised that will support these programs and services providing education, and rehabilitation as well as employment services. (To donate, and for more info, click here!) And to watch the entire fabulous fashions and show, see below!

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Sister Rosemary Connelly, Misericordia executive director, with one of the residents.

Misericordia's Women's Board hosted its first virtual (38th!) Heart of Mercy Ball on October 14. Hundreds of supporters tuned in to watch a 90 minute virtual show that was emceed by longtime Misericordia supporter (Mr. Fix It) Lou Manfredini. He spoke about the many

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Event host Lou Manfredini (Mr. Fix-It).

ways Misericordia pivoted during this pandemic to take care of its residents through fun activities that includes baking, bike-riding, arts and crafts and virtual programming to stay connected. Father Jack Clair, assistant executive director and chaplain at Misericordia, delivered a powerful prayer to open the

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Actor/ Misericordia support Joe Montegna.

evening. Testimonials on the great work done here were presented by Mayor Lori Lightfoot, Pat Fitzgerald (head coach Northwestern University football), Mike Singletary (former Chicago Bear), Mary Ann Ahern (NBC 5 Chicago), actor Joe Montegna,

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Benedetta Kelly, Misericordia Women's Board President.

Miguel and Kelly Cervantes, actor Mark Rolston ("The Shawshank Redemption"), Hoda and Jenna (The Today Show) and yours truly. Bennetta Kelly, Women's Board president spoke about the history of the organization. "Nearly a century ago, our board was founded to support Misericordia, then a maternity hospital

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Miguel and Kelly Cervantes.

for women in need, then later becoming the Misericordia we know and love today…We support children and adults with a wide range of intellectual and developmental disabilities from numerous backgrounds," she said. Miguel and Kelly Cervantes thanked Sister Rosemary Connelly, executive director, for all her hard work

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Mary Ann Ahern (NBC 5 Chicago).

before a clip of Miguel singing with The Heartbreakers was shown. The group danced while Miguel sang "This is Me" (a song by Keala Settle that was performed in the film "The Greatest

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Lois Gates, Misericordia assistant executive director and chief development officer.

Showman"). Sister Rosemary's remarks always bring a tear to your eye. Her compassion and devotion to the cause is palpable. She's been a Sister of Mercy for 70 years and 50 years at Misericordia. She thanked everyone for their support saying it will help close the annual deficit of $20 million. "We can also pursue our

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Pat Fitzgerald, Northwestern University head football coach.

dream projects of expanding our campus (8 new homes are planned as well as a drive-thru bakery) in the hope of being able to reach out to more families who are on the waiting list, families who want a

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Susan Baker, WB member and event co-chair.

Misericordia and NEED a Misericordia. We hope soon to be able to give them the same peace of mind our families have known for decades…Throughout this horrible health crisis, our staff have risked their own lives to ensure our residents remain happy, healthy, engaged and challenged.

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Jackie Kissane, WB member and event co-chair.

Tonight, we have the privilege of honoring our staff with a special Heart of Mercy Award," she said. 43-year staff member Mary Pat O'Brien, assistant executive director of residences and programs, presented the plaque to the

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Mary Pat O'Brien, Misericordia ED of residences and programs, presented Mis Staff with special Heart of Mercy Award.

staff. 400 of them have been employed at Mis for 10 years or more and some have been there for 40+ years! Lois Gates, assistant executive director and chief development officer, read a letter to the staff thanking them for their outstanding efforts. A

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Auctioneer Extraordinaire Greg "G-Man" Dellinger.

paddle raise was conducted by one of my favorite auctioneers, Greg "G-Man" Dellinger. A house for 6 in Ireland sold for $7500; a Peloton bike sold for $3000 and a week-long, Tuscany getaway for 4 sold for $4500. Co-chaired by WB members Susan Baker and Jackie Kissane, the virtual event exceeded the nonprofit's expectations raising over $311,000 and counting. (To donate or learn more, click here!)

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Dr. Sandy Goldberg and her supportive husband Greg Hines during the virtual event.

Even though it had to be virtual, Dr. Sandy Goldberg and her talented team figured out a way to make this year's (16th!) A Sterling Event benefiting A Silver Lining Foundation something very, very memorable just like she's always done in the past at her live events. Auctioneer Jim Miller opened the 90 minute show by introducing longtime supporter and WGN anchor Micah Materre who was shown in her kitchen busily creating the event's signature cocktail, a

Laura Ivaldi  Jack Hazan (that's me!)  Jim Miller (auctioneer)  Eric Lundgren and Scott Levine

Dr. Sandy and Greg in front with Laura Ivaldi, Jack Hazan, Jim Miller (auctioneer), Eric Lundgren and Scott Levine in rear.

Silvertini during a pre-show reception. From there, emcee Paul Lisnek (WGN News) took the virtual event reins and spoke about the nonprofit. "The challenges of being uninsured and under-insured persist now more than ever [for breast health testing]. Many of us know people who, six months

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ABC 7's Tracy Butler.

ago, had all the insurance they needed, had a good job and their lives were pretty stable, but, due to the pandemic, their lives have been turned upside down. ASLF has looked at these folks and felt it needed to step up to make sure that NO ONE has to go without potentially life-saving breast health testing." Eric

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LeeAnn Trotter, NBC-5 Chicago.

Siegelbaum, an internationally acclaimed wine & champagne expert who was Food & Wine magazine's 2019 Sommelier of the Year, explained the proper and safe way to open a bottle of champagne and conducted an ask-me-

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Micah Materre, WGN News anchor, toasts A Silver Lining Foundation with her custom Silvertini. 

anything segment. Who knew I'd been doing it wrong all these years. He said to hold the bottle at a 45 degree angle, put thumb on top, untwist cage and grab BASE of bottle and twist from there! Now we know!  Lisnek introduced the show's highlight, a visually sensational video produced and directed by fashion designer/lawyer Mark Roscoe (who appears to have unlimited talents!) and written and performed by the one and only Opal

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Roz Varon, ABC-7 Chicago.

Staples. "I Believe" is now the anthem of ASLF and a real (happy) tear jerker! (See video below). Dr. Sandy and her dear husband Greg Hines spoke about how the organization was founded in 2002 following her breast cancer

Auctioneer Jim Miller.

Auctioneer Jim Miller.

diagnosis. She recalled it came early in her marriage. She asked Greg to come home from work so she could share the news with him. His loving reply? "I married you, not your boobs!" (Just love him and the love they have together). I was honored to share a video tribute for this amazing nonprofit along with ABC-7's Tracy Butler, NBC Chicago's LeeAnn Trotter and Cancer Wellness magazine founder Caylei Vogelzang, among others. Tracy was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2018 and heard Dr. Sandy on the radio providing much needed inspiration and hope. LeeAnn lost her mom to breast cancer at an early age. Later

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Ben Carstensen and his Tasting Stars event were recipients of the 2020 Evy Award, named after Dr. Sandy's mom, Evelyn Goldberg.

in the program, Brent Carstensen accepted the Evy Award on behalf of the Tasting Stars event he started years ago in support of the foundation. A Silver Lining Foundation

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Courtney Mahoney, Chicago Wolves senior VP of operations.

has evolved from a single outreach program connecting those in need of breast health resources to a funder of potentially life- saving breast health testing. In 2019, ASLF funded almost 2000 tests for 1487 women, resulting in 18 life-saving diagnoses. The organization has 15 partner hospitals in the Chicagoland area. All event proceeds will support the programs of the foundation, in particular, Buy A Mom A Mammogram, which funds cost-free breast health testing for uninsured, underinsured, undocumented women and men and for those who have lost their jobs and health insurance due to the pandemic. (To donate or learn more, click here) (To watch Opal Staples perform "I Believe" see below, and to view the virtual gala, click here.)

And watch the virtual event here!

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Patrick Gleason  Matt Olaveson  Ken Norgan  Kelly Wicklander  Joe Wicklander -bottom--Adam Vitale  Vanessa George

(Top, L to R) Patrick Gleason, co-chair Matt Olaveson, Ken Norgan, Kelly Wicklander and Joe Wicklander. (Front)–Co-chair Adam Vitale and Vanessa George.

The Luminarts Cultural Foundation hosted a successful virtual event on October 10. "Next Begins Now," was a fundraiser to support our city's outstanding emerging artists so that they can pursue careers in the arts. Throughout the evening, we heard outstanding performances in a variety of genres. Katya Schloeman, a Luminarts Fellow in Dance 2017, performed a stirring ballet. She is a former company member of The Joffrey Academy of Dance. I was proud to introduce Josh Brown (via video of course), a 2019 Fellow in Classical Music, who performed on a 1679 Pietro Guarneri violin! Baritone Will Liverman, a 2017 Luminarts Fellow in Classical Music, played the piano and sang "Moonlight in Vermont" (he gave me chills he was so

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Josh Brown, Luminarts 2019 Fellow in Classical Music. 

good). Josh is an alumnus of The Julliard School and

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Will Liverman, 2017 Luminarts Fellow in Classical Music.

has been engaged to perform in lead roles at the Met, LA Opera and the Kennedy Center, among others. Emily Pogoreic, a Luminarts Fellow in Classical Music, sang as Chris Reynolds accompanied her on the piano. Jesse Stein, a 2020 Luminarts Fellow in Prose, read a delightful excerpt from his first book, "Mandrake." Leanne Williams, a Luminarts Fellow in Visual Arts, spoke about her passion for painting as the camera panned

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Leanne Williams, Luminarts Fellow in Visual Arts.

around the room of her fabulous finished works. Leanne was recently featured as a 2020 Breakout Artist in NYC. A final performance was presented by soprano Nicole

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Jesse Stein, a 2020 Luminarts Fellow in Prose.

Cabell, a Luminarts Award Recipient in Classical Voice. Other artists spoke about the remarkable impact the nonprofit has made in their lives. The event was expertly co-chaired by Matt Olaveson and Adam Vitale (board members) and Kylie Krizek (Wintrust Commercial Banking) who also hosted a virtual after-party with friends Ken Norgan, Patrick Gleason, Kelly and Joe Wicklander and Vanessa George. Kudos to all! (To donate and/or learn more, click here!)

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John C. Robak, CEO, Greeley and Hansen (Chicago State Foundation Board Member and Gala Chair)

I'm so very proud of my dear friend John Robak, CEO Greeley and Hansen, on his recent, virtual hosting duties on behalf of Chicago State University (in partnership with the Chicago State Foundation). He did a fabulous job sharing the story and fundraising for this wonderful school during its inaugural 1stGEN Scholarship Gala held on October 2. The university delivers a carefully curated

CSU pres Zaldwaynaka Scott and CSF board member Christina Steed.

CSU President Zaldwaynaka Scott and CSF board member Christina Steed.

suite of wraparound supports designed to propel the success of first-generation and non-traditional students from diverse populations. According to stats, the greatest roadblock to first-gen success isn't a lack of talent or desire, but the lack of financial resources. Dollars raised from this event will be used to help remove that barrier. The evening celebrated student scholars who are the beneficiaries of 1stGEN Scholarships as

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Alyssa Quinlan, Chief Business Development Officer at Hindman Auctions.

well as the presentation of the first-ever Cougar Servant Leadership Awards. These special honors were presented to former Illinois Senate President, and long-time CSU champion, Emil Jones, Jr., Chicago Public Schools CEO and CSU Alumna, Dr. Janice Jackson and longtime education and arts

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Darrious Hilmon, Executive Director at Chicago State Foundation, is joined by radio personality Ramonski Luv. 

advocate, and Bronzeville Children's Museum founder Peggy Montes. Celebrity video shout-outs were delivered by actor Taye Diggs and actress Michelle Wilson. Other remarks came from Cristina Steed (Chicago State Foundation Board Member and host at 95.1 FM); Tiffany Davis (CSU alumna); Zaldwaynaka Scott (CSU president); Senator Elgie Sims and Darrious Hilmon (Chicago State Foundation ED), among others. The evening closed with a dance party hosted by DJ Vince Adams. Congrats to all involved! (To donate, or learn more, click here!)

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120562292_10223577099600656_3666109390393626747_nRoald Dahl's The Witches, which has been re-imagined by the

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Leslie Zemeckis celebrates husband Robert's latest film.

award-winning director/writer/producer Robert Zemeckis for HBO, premiered on Oct. 22. Robert's adoring wife Leslie threw a socially distanced DIY cast party to celebrate with cake and champagne and, of course stylish masks. The story, which stars Anne Hathaway, Octavia Spencer and Stanley Tucci, takes place in late 1967. A young orphaned boy goes to live with his loving grandma (Spencer) in the rural Alabama town of Demopolis. As the boy and his  grandmother encounter some deceptively glamorous but thoroughly diabolical witches, she wisely whisks him away to a seaside resort. Regrettably, they arrive at precisely the same time that the world's Grand High Witch has gathered her fellow cronies from around the globe — under cover — to carry out her nefarious plans. See trailer below! Kudos Robert, Leslie and crew!

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2020 EvitePlease mark your calendars NOW for Rev UP! 2020! This virtual (and oh-so fashionable) fundraiser will be held on Thursday, October 29 beginning at 6 pm, honoring Chicago's own Sherrill Bodine! Proceeds from this event will support our design community and the work of the Apparel Industry Foundation which provides

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Sneak peek at Rev UP'S Peach Carr segment filmed at Bentley Gold Coast and produced by ZZAZZ Productions. Models Frances Renk and Sherry Lea Fox in center. (Sherry Lea Fox photo).

scholarships, educational programming, vocational training and more to young people
starting careers in the sewn products industry, and most recently keeping unemployed theater stitchers working to produce PPE. The event will feature a fashion show (produced by Tracey DiBuono of ZZAZZ Productions) showcasing the looks of designers Elda de la Rosa Couture, Lauren Lein Ltd., Menotti Couture, Model Atelier, Peach Carr, Rebellion, Ricorso and Soundoff. I'm thrilled to be co-hosting this event which will also include amazing raffle prizes (Peach Carr custom, signed handbag, one-of-a-kind leather and fur wristlet from Rebellion, hydra-facials from the one and only Leah Chavie, a sizable gift certificate from Elda de la Rosa and so much more! (To see more details and join us, click here!) See teaser video below!

And see Ambar Campos, AIBI executive director, describe the organization's impact below….

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JoffreyThe Joffrey Ballet's Women's Board will host a virtual event to kick-off the holiday season on Saturday, November 7, at 3 pm– "Pulling Back the Curtain: The Nutcracker," Join them for a glimpse at The Nutcracker like never before with behind-the-scenes footage, interviews with Joffrey Company Artists and members of the Artistic team and delightful surprises to celebrate the magic of this story. With a program geared toward all ages and options to elevate your experience with at-home party packages, guests from age 2 to 92 can enjoy a memorable afternoon together. Proceeds from this event will go toward the Joffrey’s Crisis Stabilization Fund, a $12M initiative to provide for the continued health of the organization despite the COVID-19 pandemic. Join us in supporting this event as we raise necessary funding for the Joffrey’s programs and operations. Tickets and more info here!

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PAWS Chicago will be hosting its annual Fur Ball this year virtually on Friday, November 13, 7:50 pm. Thanks to the outpouring of support this year, this much loved NO-KILL shelter has been able to find forever homes for 3,280 dogs/cats! The virtual event will have lots of surprises, amazing auction items and, of course, those adorable dogs and cats! Please join us and find details here!

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2020 PAWS VIRTUAL FUR BALL, FRIDAY, NOV. 13, 7:50 PM.

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Baton Show Lounge founder Jim Flint and friend (Mark Olley photo).

The Baton Show Lounge has been a go-to place for Chuck and me ever since we were first married. As a matter of fact, this is where I insisted we go on one of our first dates. Owner Jim Flint and the "ladies (and men now)" have been great friends to us since their many years

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The one and only, Chilli Pepper! (Mark Olley photo)

at 436 N. Clark Street. This was a great location for us since we don't live very far from there but their new spot at 4713 N. Broadway is attracting a lot of new fans for this iconic institution. Mark Olley recently visited for a Sunday brunch show and raved about it! He said the performers, ambiance, everything was top rate! They're open Thursday through Sunday at 7 pm with these show times: Thursday and Sunday, 8 and 9:30 pm; Friday and Saturday, 8, 9:30 and 11:30 pm. The Patio Bar & Cafe is open Tuesday through Friday with the bar opening at 4:30 pm and the mini shows beginning at 2 pm, with entertainment every 10-15 minutes. (For more info, click here!) I hope to see you here soon! (And to see some fabulous footage of the club's 42nd anniversary party with Miss Chilli Pepper and friends, see below!) The Baton has been around since 1969!  

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The Chicago Botanic Garden is bringing back its fabulous LIGHTSCAPE, a captivating world of light, color, and sound in an all-new trail designed with our safety in mind. Bask in the glow of thousands of twinkling lights in favorites like the Cathedral of Light and new delights you've never seen before! Make new family memories this year at Lightscape, November 13 through January 3, 2021. This event sold out in its debut season last year so make your plans now! (Info here!)

Lightscape

The Botanic Garden's Lightscape–GET YOUR TICKETS NOW!

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Union league boys and girls clubsThe Union League Boys and Girls Clubs will honor some remarkable Chicagoans at its Virtual 43rd Annual Inspirational Heroes Gala on November 7th, 6- 9 pm. The Gala will benefit Chicago youth served by the nonprofit’s critical programming that carried on despite closings due to COVID-19. Guests are invited to enjoy a memorable three-course meal (available for pick-up at the Club prior to the event) prepared by Chef Michael Ponzio drinks, a silent auction and a “Fund the Mission” campaign, as well as a few surprises! For more info, please click here.

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You can bet this virtual event will be a hoot and a night of squeals, screams, thrills and chills! Mark your calendars NOW for Howard Brown Health Center's BIG ORANGE BALL, coming to you virtually on Saturday, Oct. 24, 7:30- pre-show, 8-10 pm show. This virtual night will be hosted by Chicago's very own Lucy Stoole and will feature terrifying performances from Coco Sho-Nell, Tenderoni and Muffy Fishbasket plus spooky tunes by a variety of artists. Think virtual "peep holes" that include Electro & Rope Play Room; Ghost Story Room; Pole Dancing Room; Pillow Talk Room; Kink Room; Burlesque Room; Scantily Clad Room and Cruise Room with Lucy Stoole. (Must be 18 or over to participate.) Tickets start at just $20 and all proceeds will support LGBTQ+ care at Howard Brown Health. For tickets and details, click here!

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Best

My "CBD Pleasure for All" Playboy ad.

Special thanks to Playboy, my forever family, for choosing me as an Influencer for their recent campaign, "Pleasure for ALL, CBD Playboy." Chuck swears by CBD for shoulder pain, but this is a whole new way to incorporate CBD into your life! This all-new collection of products is a natural evolution for a brand that has led the cultural conversation on sex and pleasure for decades. The line includes a CBD Bath Bomb, CBD Arousal Spray and CBD Intimacy Gel (that Chuck swears by for his shoulder pain!).

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Playboy Reunion--July 15-18  2021And, on another Playboy note, the International Playboy Bunny Reunion has been rescheduled to July 15-18, 2021. The meet-and-greet weekend is for present or past employees only and will include a boat cruise, a Guys & Dolls party and then the main event on Sunday, July 18. For more info and to register contact, theplayboybunnyreunion@gmail.com.

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Whitney Reynolds

Whitney goes NATIONAL!

Huge congrats to my beautiful friend Whitney Reynolds, whose dream just came true! Starting Jan. 6, the Whitney Reynolds Show will be offered to PBS stations nationwide through the National Educational Telecommunications Association program distribution service! Her fabulous, feel-good show airs weekly at 6:30 pm Mondays on Lakeshore PBS WYIN-Channel 56! Tune in for stories that need to be told. Love and congrats Whitney! I'm so very happy for you!

 

 

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Michael Perich

Michael Perich (The Gnome Colony) is the cover star for Glen Ellyn Living!

And more congrats are in order for two more friends! The Gnome Colony's Michael Perich will shine on the cover of the next Glen Ellyn Living magazine! If you haven't visited his charming store at 485 N. Main St. (in Glen Ellyn), then you are missing out on a lot of "love, whimsy and wishes"! His

Tracey in Hinsdale Living

Tracey Tarantino DiBuono is featured in Hindsdale Living!

philanthropic efforts in the community have also been spotlighted on WGN's "Around Town" with Ana Belaval, among many other news outlets. Another dear friend, Tracey Tarantino DiBuono (of ZZAZZ Productions) was highlighted in Hinsdale Living! #WINNING

Congrats to much loved designer Elda de la Rosa, who was honored recently at

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Designer Elda de la Rosa is honored at the Runway Latinx fashion show/fundraiser.

Runway Latinx-Grace within Chaos fashion show/fundraiser. Founded by Arabel Rosales, this major fashion event honored our Elda with the Pivoting in Heels Award! And we all know how much she deserved this!

As many of you have heard, the Chicago Tribune canceled my Candid Candace column after 10 years. I'm sad the nonprofit community won't have a voice there anymore, Trib goodbye imagehowever, I will ALWAYS support Chicago charities, through this blog and any other way I can. I didn't think we could receive more bad news but, in the space of two weeks, we lost our dog and my husband had a serious health issue and then this. I dare not ask what else could happen. Thanks to all my readers who followed me there and here and for the outpouring of support we've received from all of you. We SO felt the love through your uplifting comments, flowers and notes. A special thanks to Fox 32's Sylvia Perez for sharing my story this week (watch it below) and to Robert Feder for his compassionate shout-out in his widely read blog (read it here). I hope you will continue to follow me (and subscribe) at CandidCandace.com where my love for Chicago will always shine through.

Love, as always,

Candace

Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. Trick or Treat!

 

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Filed under Chicago, Culture, Current Affairs, Fashion, Film, Food and Drink, Sports, Television, Travel

HOLIDAY HEROES’ MASK-ERADE GOES VIRTUAL AND WAY OVER GOAL TO BRING JOY TO HOSPITALIZED KIDS

Plus: Superstars of the Chicago Costume Council's Men's Fashion Awards; Service Club's "Day in the Country" (with apples); Gilda's Club Chicago's "Yes, And…An Improvised Gala"; TPAN's "Dining Out for Life" virtual party; Cancer Wellness Mag's "Loudest Voices" feature; Denise's "Eleanor" coming soon; The BEST Watch party for the Adler's Celestial Ball; "The Wings to Cure" for the Hippocratic Cancer Research Foundation;  Silver Paws Gala for Young at Heart; Luminart's "Next Begins NOW"; "Still Together at Home" for Prentice; Danica's wine passion; Road trip to Saugatuck; REV UP! honors Sherrill; Chicago Lighthouse's fabulous FLAIR is coming SOON; The Service Club's Phantom Gala; Hoda Kotb will host LSCRF benefit; USO of Illinois' patriotic Salute Gala; This & That; Charming videos and SOOO much more!

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Paul Konrad, Felicia Winiecki, Scott Steele, Greg "G-Man Dellinger" and "Elsa" Jessica McClure

The Holiday Heroes broke fundraising goals with its first virtual fundraiser! Congratulations to this wonderful organization, its executive director Felicia Winiecki and the whole team on its first virtual event held on September 17! The goal was $200,000 and the night raised over $277,000 (and counting!) People tuned in from all over the country to view the event on various platforms: the nonprofit's website, a custom website (HolidayHeroesTV.com), YouTube LIVE and Roku TV with an estimated viewership of 4,353. Now that IS some joyous news and, from what I've seen of recent virtual fundraisers, it seems to be the norm. Supporters of these nonprofits are steadfast and know, that in times like these, they need to step up and boy have they ever! Almost all of the virtual events I've covered

Wilco's Jeff Tweedy

Wilco's Jeff Tweedy.

have reached their goals, gone beyond and in some cases, broke all fundraising records! Methinks, even though we all love to be together at galas, that many of these nonprofits will always have some sort of virtual component included in their fundraising plans. Anyway, back to the main event! The 90 minute "Midway MASK-erade" began with a pre-show where Felicia, along with event host Paul Konrad (WGN-TV), explained the nonprofit's noble mission, to bring joy and entertainment to hospitalized kids (and families) battling life-threatening illnesses through days of play with themed activities and parties. The pre-show included comments from sponsors and VIPS: Stuart Baum (HH

Josh Spencer board chair

Josh Spencer, HH board chair.

president); Lindy Antonelli (Armanino); Teresa Zagar (RSM); Josh Spencer (HH board chair); Neil Beaton (Alvarez & Marsal managing partner); Brandt Kucharski (GrubHub chief accounting officer); David Nessen (Mueller CEO/Pres); Kam Kniss (Wintrust CEO); Ted Botts (Baker McKenzie partner) and others. Mark Wagner, everyone's favorite bartender from Gibson's Steakhouse taught us all how to mix the signature drink, a Midway MASK-uerade Martini. Greg "G-Man"

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Mark Wagner, Gibsons Steakhouse bartender.

Dellinger introduced the first auction item of the night, a concert for 4 with Luke Combs, the country-western superstar who was just named Country Artist of the Year at the CMAs. Jessica McClure, a volunteer who visits kids in hospitals on behalf of Holiday Heroes dressed as various super heroes during the night, and accompanied Greg in auction presentations dressed as different characters. Lucy Carapetyan, The Actors Gymnasium Special Events

Magician Ben Seidman

Magician Ben Seidman

Manager, introduced performers in a fabulous juggling act and contortionist Kathleen Hoil twisted her body like a pretzel before the second auction item, a trip to the Florida Keys for 10, was offered. The Heart of the Hero Award, the organization's highest honor, went to longtime supporters Nancy and Art Hudson. Their daughter Arlie and son Reed spoke lovingly about their parent's humility and how they always prefer to "fly under the radar and make positive life-altering impacts

Contortionist Kathleen Hoil

Contortionist Kathleen Hoil.

on those around them quietly." The Hudsons donated a van that is colorfully wrapped in HH messaging for hospital visits. The auctioneer then presented a deluxe golf package that featured foursomes at courses throughout the region including Butterfield, Olympia Fields, Crystal Lake, Glen Oak, Rolling Green and Big Foot Country Clubs. Another package featured a dinner for 12 with celebrity Chef Charles Webb.

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Nancy and Art Hudson, Heart of a Hero honorees.

Rare bottles of Pappy Van Winkle Bourbon were donated for auction by a supporter from his own cellar. Magician Ben Seidman performed sleight of hand before a powerful impact video featuring Britta and Eric Peterman. The Petermans spoke movingly about caring for their son Eli, who was diagnosed with muscular dystrophy when he was 8

The Peterman Family

The Peterman Family

months old and how Holiday Heroes kept all of their spirits up. Mom Britta said, "Holiday Heroes brings joy and hope. I think finding things that can put smiles on kids' and family's faces is the best medicine anyone could have

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The late Baby Eli.

when you're going through the most stressful time of your lives." Eli sadly passed away in 2020. Grammy Award-winner Jeff Tweedy, Chicago native, guitarist and lead singer for the band WILCO, performed a song he had written specially for the event, "One and a Half Stars" about a mother's love for her child. Jessica McClure, dressed in full Wonder

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Adam LeBlanc of Sixteen Candles.

Woman attire, summed up the impact of the nonprofit, "The Holiday Heroes team knows exactly what these children and their families need, inside and out. It's a beautiful way to remind people that in their darkest days, there is hope and they ARE strong enough to get through it." The event was expertly produced by Scott Steele of Steele Media Group and it truly felt like a trip to the circus, with so many well-timed moving parts and top-notch entertainment. The popular cover band Sixteen Candles closed the show singing "I Think We're Alone Now." Congrats to ALL! (To learn more about The Holiday Heroes, or to donate, please click here.)

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David SanchezThe Costume Council of the Chicago History Museum is sure thinking on its virtual feet. The event they planned to raise awareness and funds for the Museum was so cool! The annual Chicago Men's Fashion Awards (CMFAs), typically a very chic fundraiser held at some high end retail store with Chicago's top fashionistas, went virtual this year with a digital campaign photographed by Sandro Miller. The CMFAs honors the city's best-dressed men and, this year, 10 were chosen, not only for their fashion sense but also for their philanthropy in the community. They included, in no CMFA honoree Joshua Blake Carterparticular order: Kareem K.W.O.E. Wells, a Level Next Music Recording artist, CEO of Flow Entertainment and founder of the KWOE Foundation, a nonprofit that uses music to help kids reject violence. Gary Metzner--UntitledGary Metzner, the 2nd honoree is the VP/head of office, Sotheby's Chicago. He said the best advice he was ever given was to switch from business school to art history. He's raised millions for charity as an auctioneer. Dr. Julius Few, a renowned plastic surgeon, gives back through his Few Initiative JuliusFewUntitled for Children. He also recently partnered with the Common Ground Foundation to aid students in need with school and after-school programming. Andrew Caruso works in luxury retail and,during the pandemic, has been rounding up his co-workers to help make donations to food banks, Black Andrew CarusoLives Matter and social justice causes. Rino Burdi is a much loved fashion designer and owner of Burdi's men's store on Walton. He supports several charitable organizations (and I can vouch for this having seen his high-end donations on a regular basis), and especially those involving dogs and kids. David Sanchez, a much loved former model who is now an entrepreneur CEO, talent agent and educator, is a supporter of The Boys & Girls Clubs and The Chicago Fashion Incubator. He said, "I believe my job is to be of service to others, every day. I use my knowledge, my voice and my gifts to bring people together, and that is Daryl Sneed Untitled how I can go to bed happy at night knowing I'm doing Kareem Wells Untitledmy part to see people succeed." Mark Bundra founded ALL IN Lacrosse, a business centered around helping young athletes achieve their personal and athletic goals through private and small group lacrosse instruction. He works very closely with OWLS (Outreach with Lacrosse in Schools), a nonprofit that provides mentorship and access to scholarships, improving the academic and social outcomes of the youth it serves.  Daryl Sneed has his Mark Bundrafeet planted firmly in both the creative and business worlds. He's a healthcare consultant as well as the founder/lead designer for the women's modern heritage brand, Ricorso, and in Lee Ellison 2016, he co-founded the lifestyle brand SOUNDOFF as CEO and co-creative. He's a lover and supporter of Chicago's arts and dance community, especially The Joffrey Ballet, Hubbard Street Dance Chicago and the CSO. Lee Allison is a men's accessories and clothing designer. His Rino Burditwo best pieces of advice: Don't over-think things and don't pursue perfection when good is good enough. During the pandemic, he's been creating tailored face masks from men's Italian shirting and, with every purchase, there's a donation to Feeding America (so far, he's raised over $2,000). And last, but certainly not least, we have Joshua Blake Carter who works with Giordano Dance Chicago as the director of Giordano II. Additionally, he's an award-winning freelance choreographer and teaching artist as well as a longtime advocate and volunteer for Chicago Dancers United and Dance for Life. I know most of these exceptional men and was honored to have collaborated on the Q&A for each profile. Check them all out here and congrats to all!

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Sherry Abrahams, Heather Jane Johnston, Jean Antoniou and Kathy Wolter Mondelli.

In years past, The Service Club of Chicago's Day in the Country was what we know today as Day on the Terrace, a day of fashion at a suburban estate. Well, in 2020, Service Club re-visited the Day in the Country

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SC pres Sherrill Bodine raised a ton for the nonprofit by wearing these overalls. Members placed bets that she wouldn't and the org won big!

theme and brought it back to life with an afternoon of fundraising and apple picking! Wednesday, September 16th, was a beautiful, sunny day, perfect for a visit to Heather Spyra’s home in Spring Grove. Heather and her husband Eric greeted visitors, as well as the darling miniature horses from Mane in Heaven, a nonprofit that provides therapeutic benefits to disabled children. The horses were one of the many hits of the day! City guests arrived via shuttle bus (with

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Bobbi Panter enjoys fun in the sun.

champagne, of course), and all guests enjoyed a wonderful box lunch under a tent in Heather’s yard, beautifully decorated for the Fall season. After lunch, the group set off to Stades Farm in McHenry for apple picking! Not only did they walk the orchards and pick apples to take home, but the Farm Store was also a big hit with the ladies as they oohed and ahhed over the fresh produce and delectable bakery items. The entire day from start-to-finish was socially distanced and safe per the rules of the day. During an earlier Zoom meeting discussing this event, members

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Designer Lauren Lein, sitting pretty!

challenged Service Club President Sherrill Bodine to don a pair of overalls for the event and lots of donations poured in! SC member Cheri Lawrence then offered to match every donation.  Sherrill looked gorgeous as always, and all

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Event host/ SC member Heather Spyra.

pledges went to support the group’s Philanthropic Grant Fund for 2021. The Development Committee of Service Club, chaired by Cheryl Coleman and Bobbi Panter, is charged with developing new and innovative funding ideas. Day in the Country succeeded in that mission. As Sherrill Bodine told the audience, ”It’s a

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Mane in Heaven miniature therapy horses served as greeters!

beautiful day, and a great event. My thanks to all of you for ensuring that our mission of service continues for our city and those who need us." Roughly 40 ladies traveled to the country for the event raising nearly $15K for their mission–to assist, improve and expand upon agency programs for nonprofits in the Chicagoland area. Its grant recipients operate in the areas of social service, cultural, educational and civic fields and they serve individuals all over greater Chicagoland. The SC is an all-volunteer women's organization founded in 1890. All proceeds raised are distributed to the worthiest 501c3 agencies in the community.

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DOFLChi virtual event hosts Bryant Dunbar (TPAN director of development) and Izzie Contagious (Kiki Queens president/founder)

It was all about supporting local restaurants and TPAN when Dining Out for Life was held on September 24. On this day (and year-round), people are encouraged to dine out at restaurants who have supported TPAN and its mission of providing love and support for people affected by HIV across Chicagoland. A virtual event followed hosted by Bryant

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Tom Vendafreddo (founder/director Chicago Artists Chorale) and event performer.

Dunbar (TPAN Director of Development) and curated and hosted by Izzie Contagious, Kiki Queens' president/founder. (Kiki Queens is a live-singing charity drag troupe that

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Venus Envy, drag performer and co-founder of Kiki Queens.

donates every dollar they raise to Chicago nonprofits.) The virtual production made you feel like you were watching a spectacular musical and, indeed, many of the participating artists have appeared on Broadway. Tom Vendafreddo, founder/director of Chicago Artists Chorale, opened the show singing "Way Ahead of My Time", a song about a cave man's son coming out. Joseph Anthony Byrd ("Kinky Boots," "Lion King") sang a duet with Austin Head, "Not My Father's Son" (from "Kinky Boots"). Juilliard trained opera singer, Michael St. Peter played the piano and sang

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Michael St. Peter

"Corner of the Sky" from "Pippin." He said the theme of the song, about finding your purpose in life and a sense of belonging in the world, is what TPAN is doing for so many people, specifically in the LGBTQ+ community. Co-host Briant Dunbar spoke about TPAN's impact. "We serve 100s of people affected by HIV right here in Chicago, more than 335 LGBTQ+, primarily street homeless and unstably housed young adults who come to us because they often have nowhere else to turn to for care and

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Joseph Anthony Byrd and Austin Head sang a duet.

services. We're also a home for healthcare and support for older adults, many long term survivors of HIV, people who have been lived with HIV for decades and are going down the path of life and need our care and support" he said. Vendafreddo returned to sing "Get Happy" with Broadway vet Marya Grandy and closed the show with, what he called, the community's

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Performance artist Trevor Perry aka Gwendolyn Van Cartier.

unofficial anthem about being "out" and proud of who you are, "I Am What I Am" from "La Cage aux Folles". The song's composer Jerry Herman was diagnosed with HIV in 1985 and passed away in

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Soloist Grabiel Mudd.

2019. Drag performer and co-founder of Kiki Queens, Venus Envy, sang "Everybody's Girl" in a skintight red sequined mini dress. Other artists included Heather Boehm ("Hamilton," violinist and president of Theatre Musicians Association); Michael McBride (singer, keyboardist), Trevor Perry (vocalist, performance artist "Gwendolyn Van Cartier") and others. The evening ended with Venus Envy singing a medley of dance music from the 70s that included "Hot Stuff", "She Works Hard for the Money", Toot Toot Beep Beep" and more. 

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Gilda's Club Chicago namesake Gilda Radner with husband Gene Wilder.

Gilda's Club Chicago presented a virtual fundraiser, "Yes, And…An Improvised Gala" on Friday, September 25. The event was produced by The Second City and included presentations from alums and present members plus a variety of other celebs and notables. Gilda's Club Chicago is a place where men, women and children whose lives have been impacted by cancer, as well as their family and friends, can find support. The Clubs were founded in 1995, after its namesake, Gilda Radner, lost her battle with ovarian cancer. Her

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Larry Wert, event co-host.

husband, Gene Wilder, and friends opened the first "red door" in NYC in her honor. Since then, Gilda's Clubs have sprang up across the country in collaboration with The Wellness Community. On this night, Jon Harris and Larry Wert, a true dynamic duo, teamed up as co-

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Jon Harris, event co-host.

emcees. The evening included impact videos and celebrity shout-outs and opened with remarks from LauraJane Hyde, GCC CEO. She spoke about how we have all been resilient, and have survived by improvising and how this year has confirmed the importance of their mission. She said, "Cancer doesn't discriminate. We have bonded as a community." Singer/songwriter Steven Page, one of the founders of Barenaked Ladies, sang his hit song, "It's All Been Done Before" and a new song he just wrote during the pandemic called

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Actress Bonnie Hunt participated in the virtual event.

"Isolation." NBC's Al Roker sent in a video congratulating the nonprofit for serving over 50,000

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Al Roker congratulated the nonprofit via video.

members since it's opening. Joel Murray ("Mad Men", "Dharma and Greg," "Shameless") remembered how he and all his brothers fell in love with Gilda especially after a rainy night out with their mother. Gilda raced back to her apartment just to get a raincoat for their mom and they never forgot her kindness. He said, "Thanks to Gilda's Club for being there during people's hardest times and for reminding them

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Jarret Payton

that they are loved." Testimonials came in from Raymond, Meghan and Aidy Bryant (of

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With GCC's CEO LauraJane Hyde and Brad Newquist, director of development.

"Saturday Night Live"). They all spoke of the impact GCC has had on their lives. Raymond, who was diagnosed with prostate cancer 6 1/2 years ago, said the "emotional benefits of the Wellness Group is profound and that the sense of community is so empowering." Actress Bonnie Hunt delivered a very heartfelt message about being an oncology nurse and having her niece go through a cancer journey. Jarrett Payton also sent a video sharing his support of GCC. The evening closed with Bradford Newquist (GCC Director of Development) performing several standards including the very timely "Don't Get Around Much Anymore" by jazz great Duke

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Joel Murray, (seen here with brother Bill Murray) participated in the evening via video.

Ellington. (I was proud to be a part of this evening too, submitting a video and speaking about my longtime support

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Steven Page (of Barenaked Ladies) performed.

and involvement with this great organization and how much it means to so many.) (For more info, and to support, Gilda's Club Chicago, click here). GCC is now running over 150 virtual programs per month such as support groups, lectures, healthy lifestyle activities and more, to keep the community connected, active and engaged while they're apart. (See virtual calendar here for programming).

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Gilda's Club Chicago team with CEO LauraJane Hyde (3rd from R).

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ABC-7's Tracy Butler is cover star for Cancer Wellness mag's "Loudest Voices" feature.

Many thanks to Cancer Wellness magazine (and founder Caylei Vogelzang) for including me in its "Leading Ladies of News: Loudest Voices" cover feature! The "Women's Health Issue" features one of my favorite media peeps,

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So honored to be a part of this cover feature.

ABC-7's Tracy Butler (who is a breast cancer survivor), as its beautiful cover star. Other media friends included are: NBC-5's Zoraida Sambolin (also a breast cancer survivor/advocate); NBC-5's LeeAnn Trotter (who lost her mother to breast cancer and is an advocate); ABC-7's Roz Varon (a breast cancer survivor/advocate); Whitney Reynolds (advocate) and me (Chuck was diagnosed with colon cancer in 2013 and I support many cancer related nonprofits). The article was beautifully written by Taylor Novak with photos by Katrina Wittkamp and Sarah Bell. (To read/see digital mag, click here and to order, click here!) What an honor, so grateful.

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Eleanor's Very merry christmas wish"Eleanor's Very Merry Christmas Wish" is a book for ALL ages written by my friend Denise McGowan Tracy! It's a charming tale of a toy who's "left behind" and her journey to find happiness. I don't want to give the story away but the book is filled with all kinds of wonderful

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Denise McGowan Tracy

inspiration for kids. It teaches them to never give up, have hope, remain joyful and positive and be a good friend. Actually, this is something we all need to learn! Loved it from beginning to end and the beautifully rendered illustrations by John Michael Downs make you feel like you are right there at the North Pole. It's much more than a Christmas story and would make a great gift too. Last year, this wonderful book was made into a play (where even Santa was on hand as a special treat for the kids) but, this year, due to Covid, the book's magical story will be live-streamed so you can watch it in the comfort of your own home. Perfect for a wintry night as you wait to hear hooves on the roof! (Order here ,coming soon!) and I'll share live-stream info as soon as it becomes available).

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With Chuck and Watch Party co-hosts Almira (Sugar) Yllana and Gio (Spice) Krozel.

Chuck and I were invited to the most delightful (black tie!) Watch Party for the Adler Planetarium's virtual Celestial Ball celebrating its 90th anniversary on

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Cindy Davidson, Gio (Spice) Krozel, Almira (Sugar) Yllana, Tina Nassos and Ilenia Lutz.

Saturday, Sept. 12. The party was hosted by Sugar & Spice (Almira (Sugar) Yllana and her darling twin sister Gio (Spice) Krozel) at the LondonHouse Cupola with a few of their good friends. Party people included John and Tina Nassos, Khalil Pillai, Scott Lutz, Ken Krozel, Robert App, Cindy Davidson, Ilenia Lutz, Parmita Katkar and others. Almira and Gio are Adler board members and are such an asset to this organization. Decor for the party included everything from Outer Space Barbies to Nike Limited Edition Moon Shoes! Even Rosemary Fanti and her dear Richard Koranda were on hand creating portrait keepsakes! Thanks to LondonHouse GM Homero Villarreal for a great night too! Yes, it was a STELLAR event! (To learn more about this cultural gem, click here: adlerplanetarium.org)

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Adler Planetarium's fun-filled Watch Party hosted by Sugar & Spice (Almira Yllana and Gio Krozel) at LondonHouse Chicago Cupola.

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Hippocratic Gala  Wings to Cure  Nov. 14  virtual  6 pm.The Hippocratic Cancer Research Foundation will host this year's "The Wings to Cure" event virtually on November 14, at 6 pm. The Foundation was founded by Eleni Bousis, with friends, who will be chairing the event along with Dr. Leonidas Platanias (director, Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center of Northwestern University). The Foundation was created in 2014 by "four compassionate people who wanted to make a difference for humanity and those impacted by hearing the word cancer." (For event details, click here.)

Young at Heart Senior Pet Rescue will host its annual Young at Heart Silver Paws Gala 2020Silver Paws Gala virtually this year on Saturday, Oct. 24, at noon. Besides general tickets, VIP tickets are also available which include a fun 1950s "Drive In" goody box filled to the brim with cool stuff. This 1950s themed party will include music from The Acoustic Generation, a live auction and, of course, adorable visuals. To register and support this nonprofit that rescues senior dogs and cats, click here.

LUMINARTS--Sat.  Oct. 10Reminders! Don't miss Luminarts "Next Begins Now" virtual event on Saturday, October 10 at 6 pm. The event will be co-chaired by Matt Olaveson, Adam Vitale and Kylie Krizek to help provide resources for young, talented artists to launch a career in the arts. (Details here!)

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Prentice inviteFriends of Prentice's "Still Together at Home" will be held virtually on Saturday, Oct.24 at 7:30 pm to support women's healthcare. (Details here!) Misericordia will host its "Heart of Mercy Ball "virtually on Wednesday, Oct. 14 at 6 pm to support its programming and housing for children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. (For details, click here).  

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FLAIRPlanning for this year's FLAIR fashion show to benefit The Chicago Lighthouse is moving along at lightening

Cheryl and Sheree FLAIR co-chairs

Co-chairs Sheree Valukas and Sherrill Bodine.

speed. All the models have been fitted and will be taping their segments shortly. Now all we need is YOU! Please join us on Friday, Oct. 16 at 11 am when I'll be co-hosting with show producer Tracey DiBuono (ZZAZZ Productions) to raise funds for this wonderful nonprofit that provides love, care and support for the blind, visually impaired or disabled. Co-chaired by Sherrill Bodine and Sherree Valukas, the event will be a blast for this worthy cause. (See video promo here and register here for the virtual show!)

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SC Phantom Gala inviteThe Service Club of Chicago will host its "Phantom Gala" from October 12-22. This virtual on-line campaign, co-hosted by SC members Mary Lasky, Kristine Kinder, Mary Claire Moll and Tina Weller, will feature a super DELUXE  Live Auction and so much more! Proceeds will support the organization's Philanthropic Grant Program which provides funds to nonprofits for items they need to serve their community. (All info here!)

 

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2020 EviteAlso, please mark your calendars for REV UP! 2020! We're going virtual, of course, on Thursday, October 29, 6 pm, to support the Apparel Industry Foundation which provides scholarships, education programming, vocational training and more to Chicago's design community. This year, we will honor the one and only Sherrill Bodine with some of our city's most popular designers! Proud to host this big night with fashion show production by ZZAZZ! Join us! (All details here!)

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IMG_5122The Lynn Sage Cancer Research Foundation will host its virtual Fall Benefit on Thursday, Oct. 22 at noon. This year's celebrity Ceta-walterskeynote speaker/host will be Hoda Kotb, co-host of NBC's Today Show, a four-time Emmy winner, New York Times best-selling author and a breast cancer survivor. Another featured speaker will be Ceta Walters, founder Clark & Stone, an LSCRF board member and cancer survivor. For all the info and to register, click here!  

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Danica Rose

Danica Rose

At the opening of Nobu, Chuck and I discovered a delightful new rosé created by world-renowned, retired race car driver Danica Patrick! Who knew?! Patrick teamed up with Nechio Novak private equity group on the product, Danica Rosé Wine, which is sourced in Provence. Her passion for wine began in her racing days which led to a purchase of a vineyard in Napa Valley, and finally to creating her own wine brand, Somnium. Now she can add this crisp and light rosé to her growing line of products. (Available online here and in retail stores nationwide in 2021).

The USO will host its virtual Salute Gala on Thursday, Oct. USO Thursday   Oct. 15  630  Rachel Feinberg. 15 at 6:30 pm. Since 1941, this nonprofit has been the "Force Behind the Forces", supporting our military and their families throughout their time in uniform and as they transition back into their communities following their service. Widely acclaimed as “Chicago’s Premier Patriotic Gala”, the event will feature a star-studded evening of entertainment and dazzling military pageantry – all in honor and support of the men, women and families of the U.S. Armed Forces. Funds raised at the Salute are devoted to the support of USO of Illinois programs and services that annually serve nearly 350,000 military and military families. To register and for more info, click here!  

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Starlite Resort in Saugatuck with Rooney Rules.

Earlier this month, Chuck, Rooney and I took another little road trip to Michigan, this time to Saugatuck. I made plans for us to stay at a darling little retro motel called Starlite Resort at 3353 Blue Star Hwy. Believe

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Saugatuck Antique Pavilion–over 175 dealers!

me, it wasn't luxurious but it was spotless and family-owned with an adorable pool, fire pits, hot tub and more, in a very charming setting off the road. It was like a step back in time to the '50s but with a cool modern vibe. I chose it because I loved the images I saw online and, more importantly, because it was very dog friendly. The weather was perfect and we toured like mad with the top

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Douglas Root Beer Barrel

down on our convertible, visiting Oval Beach one evening to see the sunset (not there), enjoyed a root beer at the famous Douglas Root Beer Barrel (a local landmark since 1952), dinner at The Butler and Marro's, a visit to the fabulous (nearly 200 dealers) Saugatuck Antique Pavilion (2948 IMG_4793Blue Star Highway), a visit to Tuck's of Saugatuck Christmas Store and so much more. We drove all along the lakefront, even down forbidden dead-end lanes which is how we discovered Lake Shore Resort. This little hidden lakefront gem, tucked away at 2885 Lakeshore Drive is the definition of peace and well-being. All you could hear were the birds and the waves lapping onto the beach below. I was told the rooms have all been redone and the landscaping is sheer perfection, it's an oasis of calm in a mad, mad world. I took all the info and, hopefully, we can try it sometime down the road. The trip, although short, was the perfect pandemic antidote.

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Lake Shore Resort, Saugatuck, 2885 Lakeshore Drive.

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Rooney in drive-thru at McDonald's

The late Rooney Rules at a McDonald's Drive-Thru, his favorite place in the world.

Sadly, this trip was the last one with our lil' boy Rooney Rules, who we lost on October 1. Even though he was old, 16, he was in great health, playing, eating, drinking, until a freak accident on September 26. He either jumped or fell off the bed and we rushed him to Medvet but it was no good. He had severe spinal cord injury that paralyzed all four of his legs. He was still there in spirit but in so much pain. It was horrible to see him suffer. He was a rescue from PAWS Chicago who we were lucky to adopt on September 27, 2006. He was the sweetest little boy–we never heard him growl, saw him snap or bark a word in anger. He loved Best everything except other dogs and vacuum sweepers. He made us smile every single day of our lives and we never went anywhere without him. He's in every family photo and I can't imagine what life is going to be without him. I know everyone goes through this kind of pain and it's just unbearable but it would've been more unbearable to have lived life without knowing him. He'll always be our baby boy and he will always be loved and missed. Our hearts are breaking…Your many messages, words of support, flowers, texts, all lifted our hearts so much knowing that Rooney was so well loved. Thank you so much.

Love, as always,

Candace

Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. Monkey magic!

 

2 Comments

Filed under Books, Chicago, Culture, Current Affairs, Fashion, Film, Food and Drink, Music, Sports, Television, Travel

ILLINOIS HOLOCAUST MUSEUM AND SERVICE CLUB OF CHICAGO: VIRTUAL SUPERSTARS

Plus: Chicagoans' MASK-querade; PorchlightPalooza; Foster Boy, a must see!; Rush Woman's Board Fall Benefit; AIDS Foundation of Chicago's Walk/Run; TPAN and Kiki Queens host Dining Out for Life; Misericordia's Heart of Mercy Ball and Artist in All; Friends of Prentice, "Still Together, at Home"; A Sterling Event with Opal; Gilda's Club Chicago's "An Improvised Gala"; WITS' Ungala; Greenhouse and Belushi team up for CBD; Playboy's new Insta App; MSI hosts virtual Columbian Ball; This & That; Darling videos and SO much MORE!

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The Illinois Holocaust Museum & Education Center in Skokie, IL.

The Women's Leadership Committee of the  Illinois Holocaust Museum and Education Center hosted its first virtual SOIREÉ on September 2, raising over $250,000 (its highest

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The Voice finalist Katie Kadan.

netting event to date). This Museum, located in Skokie, is for ALL people who want to learn about the past, combat hatred and prejudice and become better world citizens aka Upstanders. I was proud to serve as host for this hour-long event that attracted over 1,100 viewers and

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Actress Sharon Stone.

included surprise guests Sharon Stone, Bonnie Hunt and many others, plus musical guests The Voice finalist Katie

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93.9 Lite FM radio personality Melissa Forman with Dr. Ruth Westheimer.

Kadan, cantors from Northshore congregations, singers from Pastor Chris Harris' Bright Star Church of Chicago, pop artist Alexander Glantz (Alexander 23), Harold Green (poet) and many more. The live portion of the event was filmed at Frost Studios under the watchful eyes of the Museum's Lori Fagenholz

Juliet Gray--WLC president-volunteer

Juliet Gray–WLC president/volunteer.

and her amazing, dedicated team including Marcy Larson, Ken Cooper and others. Kadan kicked off the evening singing "Brave" (by Sara Bareilles) followed by remarks from WLC member/event chair Caroline Pfeffer. Caroline spoke about the Museum's scholarship program

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Fritzie Fritzshall, Survivor and IHMEC president.

that allows students from all backgrounds and faiths the opportunity to learn about the Holocaust so they can make an impact in their own communities. Susie

Susie Karkomi--WLC founding member and VP

Susie Karkomi–WLC founding member/ VP.

Karkomi, WLC founding member and daughter of a Holocaust Survivor and daughter-in-law of two Survivors, said, "With the increase of hate crimes today as well as discrimination on so many levels, the need to teach about tolerance, humanity and the lessons of the

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Katie Couric and husband John Molner.

Holocaust are more urgent than ever in order to impact positive change. It's time to show up and stand up. Acquiescence is unacceptable."

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Actress Bonnie Hunt.

Juliet Gray, WLC president, introduced other members who shared their reasons for being involved with the Women's Leadership Committee. Leslie Schaffel joined to honor the memory of her great-grandparents who perished in the Holocaust and to honor her grandparents who persevered to establish a Jewish life in America. Other WLC members/speakers included Robin Levy,

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Gospel singer Opal Staples.

Stacey Gottlieb and Sherri Schorsch. TV personality and author Katie Couric, along with

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Cantor Jay O'Brien.

her husband John Molner (who grew up on the Northshore), spoke about the book she is writing about her Jewish grandparents and how important it is to support the Museum. Nancy and Michael Reinsdorf told viewers their son had his bar mitzvah at the Museum and that Susan was a volunteer there.

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Singer/songwriter Laurie Akers.
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With Susan Abrams, IHMEC CEO.

Actress/producer Bonnie Hunt emotionally shared one of the most moving stories of the night. She said, when she was a teen, she was involved in a minor car accident and had to spend some time in the hospital. As she bemoaned the fact that she was there and complained about having to stay, her mother told her she wanted her to read the book "Night" by Elie Wiesel. Hunt said, "The book changed me as I discovered that something so horrific in our history could happen." Years later, as an oncology nurse, she had the opportunity to meet

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Preacher/songwriter/producer Carl Hearne.

Wiesel (who had been diagnosed with multiple myeloma)

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Caroline Pfeffer,WLC event chair.

at an event and thank him. When she apologized for the length of the evening (he wasn't feeling well and his wife was with him in a wheelchair), he said, "Oh, I don't believe in complaining."  She said, "Then and there, he changed me again." (I cried like a baby). I conducted a Q&A with Susan Abrams, Museum CEO, who spoke about all aspects of the Museum including what was coming up next. The "Notorious RBG"

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Rita Mathias,WLC founding member/docent.

exhibit (about the remarkable life of Justice Ruth Bader

Kelly Szany--VP Education and Exhibitions.

Kelly Szany–IHMEC VP Education & Exhibitions.

Ginsburg) has been extended through the end of the year to be followed by "Mandela: Struggle for Freedom", an exhibit on the Shanghai Ghetto and, closing out 2021, with "Rise Up" about Stonewall and the struggles of the LGBTQ+ community. Eileen Kugman, WLC member and co-entertainment chair, introduced her aunt, the one and only Fritzie

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Kerry Kennedy–President Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights.

Fritzshall, IHMEC president and Survivor. Fritzie shared, "It is important to me as a Holocaust Survivor for the Museum to exist so it can teach about the past so it can teach

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Museum supporters Nancy and Michael Reinsdorf.

about the future, about what is happening today with anti-semitism raising its head again." Kelly Szany, VP Education & Exhibitions, speaking from the Karkomi Holocaust Exhibition surrounded by images of

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Pop star Alexander Glantz aka Alexander 23.

Survivors, introduced several of them who shared words of wisdom and advice: "The purpose is not to curse the darkness of the past, but to illuminate the future.";

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Detective Marcus Shephard.

"Teach your children not to discriminate, we are all equal" and more. Survivor Magda Brown, who recently passed away, had said, "My mantra is you have to have faith, fantasy, drive, determination and hope that tomorrow will be better." A musical

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Musical artist Kenneth Lyonswright.

interlude was led by singer/songwriter Laurie Akers who wrote "Stand Strong." The song was sung by cantors from Northshore congregations and singers from Pastor Chris Harris' Bright Star Church of Chicago who included Opal Staples, Jenipher Jones, Carl Hearne, Cantor Jay

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With IHMEC's Marcy Larson and Ken Cooper during a tour.

O'Brien, Ernest Johnson, Chrystal Harris, Kenneth Lyonswright, Cantor Andrea Rae Markowicz and Cantor Susie Lewis-Friedman. Other speakers included actress Jill Kargman (star of Bravo TV

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Cantor Andrea Rae Markowicz.

series" Odd Mom Out"); Kerry Kennedy (human rights activist); Keisha Rembert (a teacher); Rita Mathias (founding Museum member/docent); Alexandria Coutinho (student at Taft High School); Melissa Forman (radio superstar of 93.9 Lite FM) and Sam Harris (Museum president emeritus). Actress/producer Sharon Stone spoke about an award-winning documentary she had produced about Harris titled "An

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Alexandria Coutinho, Student Taft High School.
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Educator Keisha Rembert.

Undeniable Voice". A segment followed about the Museum's police training program which brings together officers to teach them about balancing the rights of individuals with the needs of democracy. Detective Marcus Shephard and Officers Tom Hoskinson and Diane Shaw spoke of the training program, "Today, we learned that our uniform is bigger than us."

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What an honor and a thrill it was to host this inspiring night! Thank you IHMEC!

Popular pop artist Alexander Glantz (Alexander 23) sang an original song that he dedicated to his "bubby" who was born in a concentration camp. Katie Kadan

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Sam Harris, Survivor and IHMEC president emeritus.

closed the show with a powerful rendition of the appropriately named song "Stronger Together" (by Jessica Sanchez). The exciting, action-packed evening raised funds for the Museum's future exhibitions, in-person and virtual field trips for students in under-served communities, training for law enforcement and educational programs for college students. Trust me, if you have never visited this Museum, please take your family. It's located at 9603 Woods Drive in Skokie. It's mission and purpose is so very important for us all. (To learn more about IHMEC, or to donate, click here!) (Watch the SOIRÉE event below!)

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Event co-chairs Michelle Baker and Annette Findling w/ SC president Sherrill Bodine. (Co-chair Cathy Bartholomay missing from this pic). 

And it was another virtual home run for the Service Club of Chicago when this 130-year-old nonprofit

Co-chair Cathy Bartholomay  Marguerite Hark and Myra Reilly.

Co-chair Cathy Bartholomay with SC member Marguerite Hark and SC VP Myra Reilly.

hosted "A White House Floral Affair" (aka Hat Luncheon) on September 3. This org is on a winning streak with its virtual fundraising following its successful "Day on the Terrace" event on August 3. "Floral Affair" co-chairs, SC members Cathy Bartholomay, Michelle Baker and Annette Findling, began planning the event in January when the world was young and innocent. They had hoped to host the event in May at the Drake Hotel but Covid had

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Watch Party host Kimberly Filan and friends.

other ideas. SC president Sherrill Bodine told everyone, "Everything is on the table except giving up." (Which we all know is the SC's mantra) The afternoon presentation featured the uber-talented, humble, lovely floral designer/author Laura

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With Watch Party Hosts Greg Hyder, Jim Smith and Jean Antoniou and friends.

Dowling who was the White House's chief floral designer from 2009 to 2015. After she left this position, she began writing books (her latest being "Bouquets") and participating in charity

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Watch Party Host Karen Peters and friends.

events which is where co-chair Annette Findling, luckily, discovered her. During a special VIP presentation a couple of days before the main event, Dowling shared secrets of making the perfect bouquet as she chatted about her days in the White

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SC president Sherrill Bodine wearing Lauren Lein.

House. She was filmed live from her beautiful garden behind her 19th century home in Alexandria, Virginia. She recalled a State Dinner for German Chancellor Angela Merkel where she was

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Tom Kehoe, Yvette Cusack and Sharyl Mackey.

complimented for her floral color choice, yellow, Merkel's favorite color. She spoke of moving dinners for Wounded Warriors where each of the 10,000 guests received flowers to take home. She also rubbed shoulders with many celebrities who visited the White House, including Martha Stewart, Beyonce (who sang for former First Lady Michelle Obama's 50th BD),

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Sheree Valukas at the Marchesa Watch Party.

Prince Harry, Justin Timberlake and many more. During the VIP presentation, Laura arranged bouquets of scented wild basil with dahlias, a sunflower bouquet, a sheaf of wheat with a unique

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Francisco Montiel and Marchesa's Nikki Friar.

burlap bow, a vine wreath and a massive hydrangea arrangement in an antique copper pot. She gave us a very cool tip–she mixes faux flowers with real! I loved this idea and can't wait to try it! During a particularly memorable State Dinner, Dowling was invited to meet the Governor of Washington state, Jay Inslee. He was seated next to former President Obama and asked the then-president what he would miss the most about living at the White House and he said, "The flowers." Laura, of course, will never forget THIS remark! (Another tip Laura shared is that she loves to buy basic flowers at Trader Joe's and then mix them with

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Dapper Eric Cohler.

ones from local farms.) When asked her thoughts on the new White House Rose Garden re-do by First Lady Melania Trump, Dowling said, "The White House does stay the same but the garden is a living place. I didn't

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Keynote speaker and former White House floral designer Laura Dowling.

feel like the flowers in the older garden went together very well. I thought it was a good opportunity to bring the garden up to date. It sounds like there were a lot more rose varieties planted. Each First Family has that chance to make their own changes." During

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Chic Watch Party guests at Marchesa.

the main event, on September 3, the Service Club had nearly 200 attendees who tuned in or attended "watch

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Cristina Montgomery and Pam Capitanini.

parties" for the event, which remains THE hat luncheon in Chicago! Guests viewed the presentation from Marchesa (with photos by John Reilly), the homes of The Peninsula's Greg Hyder and SC members Mrya Reilly, Kimberly Filan and Karen Peters. The emcee for the day was WGN-TV's Micah Materre, a long-time friend of SC, with expert event production, as always, by Tracey DiBuono of ZZAZZ Productions. Co-chairs opened the event thanking guests and sponsors. President Bodine

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Bobbi Panter.

said, "Despite a year in which all of us, and the entire

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Emcee Micah Materre (WGN-TV)

world, has had the most profound challenges of a century, in 2020 the SC gave 40 grants to agencies that totaled almost $450,000…SC makes magic happen, in Englewood, Pilsen, from Uptown to Cicero." During the presentation, two of the SC's grantees, Almost Home Kids and The Chicago Lighthouse, appeared on camera thanking the organization for its support. A live auction featured packages donated by Chef Charles Webb, Four Seasons Punta Mita, jeweler John Buechner and Max Mara. Over $75,000 was raised to further the SC's mission of assisting, improving and expanding on agency programs in the Chicagoland area. Its grant recipients operate in the area of social service, cultural, educational and civic fields. (To apply for an SC grant, click here) and to learn more about this nonprofit, or to donate, click here!)

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Nan Giordano and Cesar Salinas wearing multi-purpose GDC masks.

I think, sadly, that masks are here to stay for a while. And, if

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Greg Hyder wearing a beloved Cubs mask and a sentimental watch.

this proves to be true, then why not make it fun? I know a lot of chic Chicagoans have already incorporated them into their stylish wardrobes, matching masks to their outfits, wearing masks with a message or just wearing masks because they love and want to support their favorite designers and protect their fellow citizens. I wanted to feature some of my favorites in this latest blog so I asked some of my friends to share their favorite looks. Cathy Bell Bartholomay loves her mask by Sylwia Wilczynska Designs. “I love this mask mostly because it protects me and protects others. I also love

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Hair stylist Charles Ifergan.

Sylwia’s “buy one donate one” program, the brainchild of local philanthropist Sherry Lea Fox: it’s yet another way to

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MyEyeDr's Michael Caputo wearing a Versace-inspired mask.

give back and pay it forward during these challenging times. Plus, every time I wear this mask, Slywia’s graceful artistry and sublime use of fabric make me smile underneath it…I'll be wearing masks until it is safe not to, which for me means when we have an effective vaccine and COVID 19 is under control. I dearly hope that will be soon. In the meantime, and for however long it takes, I’ll be wearing a mask for myself, for my family

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Celebrity chef and Viking range spokesman Jaime Laurita.

and for my friends, as well as for everyone and anyone else,” Cathy said. Hair stylist Charles Ifergan wears a mask with a paw prints pattern, a gift from his daughter Lana who thought this would be a great way to remind him she wants a DOG! Lol! MyEyeDr's Michael Caputo paired his

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Mary Lasky wearing a fav mask by Akram Hanna.

Versace-inspired mask (a gift from his L.A. friends) with Versace glasses from, where else, MYEYEDR! Caylei Vogelzang, editor-in-chief of Cancer Wellness mag, loves her mask by Mira Couture. She said, "I think masks are here to stay for the foreseeable future. I imagine that they will become more delicate, form-fitting and functional. I think that we will witness innovations in the textiles that are being used to produce them as well as the structural and aesthetic elements that cause them to look great

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Cathy Bell Bartholomay wearing a mask by Sylwia Designs.

and feel fabulous. I am looking forward to seeing what comes down the runways (or virtual runways) this fall." Amanda Puck, Mariano's Strategic Brand Development–"My favorite masks are from Italian designer La Double J. I love them because they are bright, fun and colorful and coordinate with anything! I can also wear them for long periods of time

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Amanda Puck wearing mask by La Double J.

whether in the grocery stores, helping in the community, or out visiting local restaurants! We will be wearing masks for the foreseeable future, so let’s make it fun!! My other favorites are from Kehoe Designs and also Sylwia Designs." Sheryl Dyer Schmidt, Van Cleef & Arpels store director, loves masks made by her niece Meghan, especially the one with St. Patrick High School shamrock logo (her husband Joe Schmidt

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Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas wears a mask from her friend Joy with her nickname, Dragon Lady.

is president of the school). The Peninsula's Greg Hyder has a closet full of masks, being the style setter that he is. One of his favorites is from his beloved Chicago Cubs (but, believe me, he has one for EVERY occasion!). Giordano Dance Company's Nan Giordano and Cesar Salinas, obviously, love their Giordano masks that can be

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Sherry Lea Holson wearing a Sylwia Designs mask.

worn as a scarf or a headband too!  Master Chef Jaime Laurita doesn't have to go far for his colorful masks since his husband Rich Lane, creates them for his Etsy store (Eleven Eleven Concepts!) Maple & Ash's Mary Lasky loves her masks from Akram Hanna Custom Fitting & Alterations at the 900 North Michigan Shops. Jean Antoniou loves her "sippy" mask by Peach Carr and Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas' custom "Dragon Lady" mask was made by

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Paula Borg wears a glitzy Sylwia Designs camo mask.

her dear friend Joy. Catie Keogh, half of the popular travel doc duo "Trip Sisters" with her real-life sister Colleen Kelly, loves her mask by Gretchen Scott that she picked up at a locally owned boutique in Michigan City called Darling Boutique. Watch for Catie and Kelly's cool Trip Sisters travel show to return next year. They are also currently digital contributors for National Geographic and

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Catie Keogh wears a fav mask by Gretchen Scott.

Travel & Leisure Mag! And last but not least, philanthropist Paula Borg's favorite mask is a sequined, camouflage one by Sylwia Designs. I love the fact that so many designers were willing to pivot to mask-making, not only as an extra source of income, but also to help out essential workers like doctors and

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Sheryl Dyer Schmidt wearing a mask from her niece.

nurses. Designers Lauren Lein, Peach Carr, Borris Powell and others delivered them to hospitals and fire stations. Chicago is known as the city of Big Shoulders and nothing proves this more than these current, hard times. People are stepping up and reaching out in ways that make my heart sing. For sure, the rioting and violence can make this world seem so negative but, bright spots like this can certainly turn a frown upside down. I received a surprise

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Love my Playboy "Iconic Covers" mask!

package in the mail recently from Playboy. Inside, the silver envelope were two PB masks, one with one of my favorite covers (February 1979) on it (this mask is called "Iconic Covers"), and another pink one with Bunny logos.  The note inside showed me why Playboy has been my ride

Jean wearing Peach carr.

Jean Antoniou wearing Peach Carr's sippy mask.

or die "family" for the last 47 years. "Candace, Hope you are doing well & staying safe! Love, Playboy." Thanks to all my trend-setting friends who contributed to this segment!

Playboy will also be coming out with a really cool Instagram app! They sent the link to all the Playmates first for a test drive and I know it's going to be very popular! Take a look here and watch for it, coming soon!

Porchlight Music Theatre hosted PorchlightPalooza, a three-day

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Porchlight Icon honoree Joel Grey.

virtual festival Friday, Aug. 21 – Sunday, Aug. 23,  in lieu of its cancelled March 23 ICONS GALA. This new virtual 25th Anniversary celebration raised over $220,000 and included performances from Chicago’s best talents, highlights from its award-winning history, celebrity greetings and well wishes, the presentation of the Luminary Award to Elaine Cohen and Arlen D. Rubin and culminated on Sunday, Aug. 23, with an exclusive interview hosted by legendary newsman Bill Kurtis with Porchlight’s 2020 ICON Award recipient  Joel Grey.  (PorchlightPalooza is currently available for viewing on Porchlight’s YouTube page.)  Porchlight's Executive Director Jeannie Lukow said, “PorchlightPalooza, due to its virtual format, was able to reach our loyal Porchlight fans and expand to a national

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Much loved Bill Kurtis conducted Q&A with Joel Grey.

audience. In terms of attendance and donations, we have exceeded any previous Porchlight gala in our 25 year history.” She continued, “The response shown for PorchlightPalooza from our audience and people new to Porchlight has been unanimously positive.” Artistic Director Michael Weber added, “Trying this new format was a massive undertaking for all of us and we could not be more proud of the final result. From following social distance guidelines for filming to undertaking new technology and editing three days of one hour shows; PorchlightPalooza is something we could not be more proud of.” Event co-chairs Rick and Deann Bayless and Bill Kurtis and Donna La Pietra shared their highlights from this weekend. “We are so proud of what Porchlight has accomplished,” La Pietra said. “We have been planning the March gala for more than a year and had to change the entire format and evening due

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Michelle Lauto, Missy Aguilar and Lucy Godinez.

to COVID-19. With PorchlightPalooza, we were able to still host three nights of a great event that I was able to enjoy from home

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Lorenzo Rush Jr, lighting design by Rachel West.

with Bill and all my friends, virtually.” Deann Bayless commented, “As Rick and I watched each night, singing along to each number which would not be allowed normally, we could not prevent ourselves from smiling the entire time! Porchlight’s artists and staff provided three unforgettable nights of entertainment that I cannot get out of my head.” PorchlightPalooza artists included Brian Acker, Adrian Aguilar, Missy Aguilar, Charissa Armon, Neala Barron, Jayson Brooks, Caron Buinis, Lydia Burke, E. Faye Butler, Matt Crowle, Andres Enriquez, Erica Evans, David Girolmo, Lucy Godinez, Cory Goodrich, Frederick Harris, Jermaine Hill, Callie Johnson,

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Dancers Christopher Kelly, Erica Evans, Joey Stone and Laura Savage (Middle row, L to R) Linda Madonia, Rafe Bradford and Lior Shragg; (Lighting design by Rachel West and dancers' costumes designed by Bill Morey.)

Donterrio Johnson, James Earl Jones II, Christopher Kelley,  Heidi Kettenring, Michelle Lauto, John Marshall, Jr., Alexis J Roston, Lorenzo Rush Jr, Laura Savage, Stephanie Stockstill, Joey Stone, Bethany Thomas and Gene Weygandt. The weekend also shared well wishes and greetings from artists saluting Grey's influence on music theatre including Bob Balaban, Patrick Cassidy, Kristin Chenoweth, Raul Esparza, cast members from the recent off-Broadway revival of Fiddler on the Roof, Josh Gad, Larry Grossman, John Kander, Tom Kitt, David Mamet, Joe Mantegna, Howard McGillin, Mandy Patinkin, Benj Pasek, Tonya Pinkins, Bernadette Peters, Lonny Price, Chita Rivera, Susan Sampliner, Susan Stroman, Paul Oakley Stovall, Ben Vereen, Bruce Villanch, Stephen Wallem and Maury Yeston.

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Jim Belushi debuts his CBD product at Greenhouse opening.

GREENHOUSE celebrated the opening of its 15,000-sq-ft flagship CBD dispensary in Skokie on September 3. The afternoon had a definite Blues Brothers vibe as actor Jim Belushi (founder of Belushi's Farm) debuted his Blues Brothers X Grassroots product line to much fanfare, arriving in the famed Bluesmobile with two fellow "Blues

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Greenhouse Grand Opening in Skokie.

Brothers" (Mitch Kahn, CEO of Greenhouse and Chris Karakosta, GM of Belushi's Farm and Jim's cousin). The CBD dispensary officially opened at 1000 Skokie Blvd. with a ribbon cutting ceremony in partnership with the Skokie

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Belushi and friends arrive at the Greenhouse opening in the famous Bluesmobile that was featured in the 1980 film, "The Blues Brothers."

Chamber of Commerce that was followed by outdoor activities. Belushi's home-grown collaboration, developed at cultivation facilities owned by leading cannabis company Curaleaf, celebrates the 40th anniversary of the iconic Blues Brothers franchise. Located across from Old Orchard Mall, Greenhouse was designed by architects Peter Theodore and Stephen Coorlas, and built by Chicago based Pacific Construction. The architecturally focused exterior boasts a curtain-like facade with expansive windows, bringing natural light and warmth into the space. The two-level interior,  designed by Epoch Design Group, was deliberately configured to offer a premium,

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Mitch Kahn (Greenhouse), Chris Karakosta (Belushi's Farm) and Jim Belushi. 

curated customer experience, with a large focus on educational displays throughout the space. The second floor, accessible via a lift as well as a spectacular curved staircase, will be dedicated to in-depth consultations with trained product specialists as well as online pre-order pick up. Available products include flower, vapes, extracts/oils, topicals, concentrates and edibles. During the opening festivities, Belushi (who was scheduled to be joined by Dan Akroyd

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Linda Goldman (Skokie Chamber of Commerce), Jon Terzia (Skokie Chamber of Commerce), Talley Wettlaufer (Greenhouse) and Mitch Kahn (Greenhouse).

who couldn't come in from Canada due to Covid restrictions) played the harmonica and signed autographs for fans. Over 600 people attended over the course of the day including Christie Hefner, Rick Kogan, Mitch Kahn (CEO & Co-Founder of Greenhouse), Boris Jordan (Executive Chairman of Curaleaf), SNL alum Tim Kazurinsky, Gregg Steinberg (of Belushi’s Farm), Chris Karakosta, Akele Parnell, Khadijah Tribble and Bob Jersey. (For more info, click here!)

 

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FOSTER BOY OFFICIAL POSTER_100brightnessPut this film on your watch list! "Foster Boy" is a heart-wrenching drama about the painful, corrupt parts of the ‘for-profit’ foster care system – but also a story of

Matthew Modine  the young boy is Krystian Alexander Wyttle (he plays young Jamal)…then Jay Paul Deratany the writer and then Shane Paul McGhie playing the older Jamal.

Matthew Modine, Krystian Alexander Wyttle, Jay Paul Deratany and Shane Paul McGhie.

redemption, justice and change. Starring Matthew Modine, Louis Gossett Jr. and newcomer, Shane Paul McGhie, the movie is being released nationwide in theaters and VOD on September 25. Michael Trainer (Matthew Modine)  is a lawyer at the center of a trial in which a for-profit foster care agency puts a known sex offender into the same foster home as his young client Jamal (Shane Paul McGhie), with catastrophic results. Michael, a successful litigator with a long career in protecting corporate clients, has been blinded from recognizing the real damage they can cause. He wants nothing to do with Jamal's case until a Judge forces him to accept it. Initially he sees

Film backer Thom Lipari--Jay Paul Deratany--Shaquille O’Neal--Co-producer Mary Beth O’Connor

Film backer Thom Lipari, Jay Paul Deratany, producer Shaquille O’Neal, co-producer Mary Beth O’Connor.

Jamal, as a thuggish African American youth trying to get a piece of corporate profits. But when Jamal refuses to settle the case for any amount of money, Michael begins his representation in earnest. As their work together reveals the horrifying depth of the corrupt and abusive for-profit foster care agency, Michael is transformed from reluctant defender to fierce

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Matthew Modine and Louis Gossett Jr. in "Foster Boy."

warrior in the battle for justice. Dolly Parton was so moved by the film that she wrote a special song for it. The film was co-produced and written by Chicago attorney/screen writer Jay Paul Deratany. Film-

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Foster Boy's Shane Paul McGhie.

backer Shaquille O'Neal said, "Foster kids are not just someone else's kids, they're our kids. There is so much we can do to help them, but it all starts with shining a light on their circumstances. That's why I am so proud to be an

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Lex Scott Davis in "Foster Boy."

executive producer of the film, Foster Boy." Writer/producer Deratany added, "I'm honored that Shaquille is part of the team. The atrocities and abuse of power within the for-profit foster care system are real. The movie is based on several of my cases. These kids deserve so much better. It is my hope that "Foster Boy" will bring positive change." There will be a pre-premiere screening of this multi-award winning film at the Chi Town Movies Drive-In in Pilsen, Wednesday, September 16! Get tickets here! And to watch the powerful trailer, click here. (You can pre-order the movie On Demand too) Congrats to all involved with this film and thanks for bringing this important information to light.

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Rush WB Fall benefit 2020The Rush Woman's Board will host its Fall Benefit on Friday, October 2 at 6:30 pm. This year the Benefit has been re-imagined as a virtual event featuring a wine tasting and live jazz performances. Originally, it was planned as a festive cocktail party to be held at Theater on the Lake in Lincoln Park, but, of course, COVID.  The

Fall Benefit 2020 Co-Chairs - Elizabeth Bigelow  Gwen Geller  Wendy Herb

Fall Benefit 2020 Co-Chairs – Elizabeth Bigelow, Gwen Geller and Wendy Herb.

co-chairs, Wendy Herb, Elizabeth Bigelow, and Gwen Geller, had considered canceling the event altogether, but the need at Rush is even greater right now due to the pandemic, so they wanted to find a way to make it work virtually. Funds raised will go to the Woman's Board Transformation Fund, which supports the Rush Cancer Center. The deadline for ticket sales is September 23. (Click here for info/tickets!)

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Aids foundation run-walkThis month, the AIDS Foundation of Chicago (AFC) is inviting Chicagoans to move “Forward Together” for the 19th annual AIDS Run & Walk. For the first time, the week-long event – kicking off on Monday, Sept. 28 – will feature 5K and 10K routes throughout various Chicago neighborhoods including Hyde Park, Uptown, the Loop and more to promote safety and minimize crowds. The AIDS Run & Walk will conclude at Soldier Field on Oct. 3 and raise vital funds and awareness for AFC, in addition to more than 20 community partner organizations that provide programs and services for those living with or vulnerable to HIV, AIDS and other chronical illness. (To register, click here)

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Dining Out for Life 2020Join TPAN and Kiki Queens for DINING OUT FOR LIFE CHICAGO on Thursday, Sept. 24! Dine in, order takeout or delivery from one of the restaurant partners and make a personal gift to support TPAN’s mission to serve people affected by HIV. Tune in LIVE on Facebook to IMG_4426watch an evening hosted by the Queens on Sept. 24, 6-8 pm! Proud to be a co-chair with Sean Lewis and Amy Lawless and stand by our LGBTQ and HIV-affected communities, in one of the most important meals you’ll have all year! Here's how you can help: 1) SIGN UP as a Virtual Ambassador! Encourage your friends to get involved. 2) DINE on 9/24! Choose one of our restaurant partners and either dine in, order takeout or delivery. Then watch KiKi Queens! 3) DONATE directly to TPAN. They won’t rely on restaurant donations so individual gifts are all the more important this year! 4) SHARE your support on social media! Tag your restaurant, Dining Out for Life Chicago, and use the hashtag #DOFLChi.

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UntitledMisericordia's Heart of Mercy Ball and Artist in All events are going virtual! The venue has changed but the show must go on! Please join the Misericordia Siblings Association as they host their annual silent auction, "The Artist in All," virtually this year. Celebrate the courage and optimism of Misericordia's resident artists who Misericordia  artist in all 2020have worked hard on their masterpieces and can't wait to show them off! The online showcase will include paintings, ceramics/3D art, photography and jewelry, all available for online bidding. Congrats in advance to SIBs president Kelly Mayer, event chairs Caitlin Deptula, Bob and Jim Snediker, co-chair Sheila Canavan, Bill Meyer, Julie Sullivan and presenting sponsor The Mazza Foundation. To view the offerings (and/or to donate), click here! Also, mark your calendars for Misericordia's Heart of Mercy Ball, also going virtual this year on October 14 at 6 pm! Join the Women's Board and co-chairs Jackie Kissane and Susan Baker, as they host an enchanted evening to raise awareness and financial support for the children and adults of Misericordia Home. (Details here!)

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PrenticeFriends of Prentice will host its Annual Friends of Prentice Benefit as a virtual event - Still Together, At Home on Saturday, October 24. The event will honor our healthcare community while raising critical funds for medical research on an even greater scale to support the future of women’s healthcare. Thanks to its supporters, they have been able to provide crucial support to projects that benefit women, infants, and families in our immediate communities and across the globe. Please check out ways to give here and register for the event here!

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Gilda's Club
Gilda's Club Chicago will host "Yes, and…An Improvised Gala" on Friday, Sept. 25 at 6 pm. Hosted by Jon Harris and Larry Wert, the event will include performances by current Second City cast members, appearances by Second City alums and live musical performances and surprise guest appearances. Gilda’s Club was established in honor of Second City’s own Gilda Radner who was diagnosed with cancer in 1985 and passed away in 1989. Gilda’s Club provides free emotional and social support to anyone impacted by cancer. Funds raised at this benefit will support the creation of virtual programs that bring the service directly into the member’s home. (To register and/or donate, click here)

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WITSIt looks like some events will be virtual even moving into December! This year, WITS (Working in the Schools) will replace its large-scale Blackboard Affair gala with an Alice in Wonderland themed virtual fundraiser called The UnGala on Thursday, December 10 at 7:30 pm. The UnGala, which will be streamed into your home, is an opportunity for the Chicago community to come together to support students and teachers and to celebrate the work of WITS, ensuring that it remains a part of the Chicago education community and is there for our students and schools for future generations. (To register (for free) and/or donate, click here!)

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The Museum of Science and Industry will host a virtual gala, "Age of Invention," on Saturday, October 10. The event will support the Museum's education programs and initiatives. To register, click here!  

Kidney event

The National Kidney Foundation of Illinois (NKFI) will host its virtual 35th annual Gift of Life Gala: Coming Together As A Team on Thursday, October 29 at 6:00 pm. The evening will benefit the NKFI mission to improve the health and well-being of those at risk or affected by kidney disease through free screening programs and community health initiatives in Illinois. NKFI, along with Chicago White Sox Charities, will honor the memory of legendary broadcaster and pitcher Ed Farmer, posthumously, with the “Gift of Life Award.” Illinois Secretary of State Jesse White will present the award to Darrin Jackson, WGN radio broadcaster, who will accept the award on behalf of his late radio partner. Pat Tomasulo, sports anchor and reporter at WGN-TV, will serve as master of ceremonies and host the evening’s events. (For tickets, $150, and more info, click here!)

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IMGDon't forget, October 3 is a very special date for A Silver Lining Foundation (ASLF) as its "A Sterling Event" annual fundraiser will be going virtual! What an evening it will be too, starting with a 6:30 reception complete with special celebrity guest bartender Micah Materre and an ask-me-anything segment hosted by an internationally recognized sommelier. At 7:00, the

Mark Roscoe and Opal Staples

Mark Roscoe directing Opal Staples and friends in music video for ASLF.

event officially kicks-off with WGN TV’s Paul Lisnek as emcee. ASLF is beyond excited to introduce the premiere performance of, "I Believe," ASLF’s anthem performed by the talented Opal Staples and produced and directed by Mark Roscoe. This will be a virtual fundraiser unlike any other – complete with celebrity toasts, videos and information about the mission and impact of the foundation. The evening will include exciting silent and live auctions with Jim Miller on hand to lead the charge! Most importantly, all proceeds will support the programs of the foundation, in particular, Buy A Mom A Mammogram, which funds cost-free breast health testing for uninsured, underinsured, undocumented women and men and for those who have lost their jobs and health insurance due to the pandemic. To register, please click here!

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Mercy HousingMercy Housing will host a virtual celebration on Wednesday, September 23. "Moving Forward Together" will feature a timely conversation on the critical impact of housing on health and help raise awareness and resources for quality affordable housing in our region for those in need. To date, thanks to community partners and supporters, Mercy Housing Lakefront is able to provide affordable housing and supportive services to more than 8,000 residents in Illinois, Indiana, and Wisconsin. To register and for more info, click here!

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9Love and thanks to all of the wonderful friends and

Best

Rooney Rules came in 3rd and was happy just to be nominated, NOT, he wanted to win.

supporters who kept voting for Rooney Rules in the recent PAWS Chicago's Vanity Fur Pet Contest. It was such a darling way to raise awareness for this, the largest No-Kill animal shelter in the Midwest. Rooney didn't win but he received honorable mention. (To hear/see his concession speech (lol), click here!)

I hope you're all holding up during these (still) very trying times. I worry about our dining scene when the weather becomes cooler. One popular and much loved restaurateur said he "spent 185242_500x333_500the whole morning praying for the future." I think we all feel the same. We try to dine in/out/or carry out as much as we can but we've been negatively affected by all of this too. We even spent an afternoon researching places to live in the suburbs. We don't want to move but circumstances here may cause us to do otherwise. I don't want to live in fear, nor do I want to see all the stores, restaurants and mom-and-pop shops leave the area, which was one of the reasons we loved living downtown. We took a drive around the city over the weekend and it was a ghost town. People's nerves are still frayed and everyone seems to be waiting for the next shoe to drop. My husband described it as "Berlin after WWII." I don't know when or how this is all going to change, but like the restaurateur, we pray it's soon.

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And now, on a brighter note, I'm thrilled to see the nonprofit community pivoting to virtual 78f9a998db2546dff84b6c77d7a072fd with such success! And, although it's infinitely better to gather together in person, the recent events I've been a part of have done really well financially and visually. It seems the supporters of each nonprofit know they have to step up or give up. And, as the Service Club's president Sherrill Bodine said, "Quitting is not an option."

Love, as always,

Candace

Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. And now, something to leave you with a smile……

 

 

1 Comment

Filed under Books, Chicago, Culture, Current Affairs, Fashion, Film, Food and Drink, Music, Sports, Television, Travel

COSTUME COUNCIL RAISES FUNDS AND AWARENESS WITH PLAYFUL BARBIE EVENT

Plus: Dance for Life's "United as One"; One Tail at a Time, WINNING!; Dinosaur Adventure Drive-Thru; Remembering Studio 54; Dining Out for Life; Chicago's Farmers' Markets; CMFA Superstar Spotlight Series; Holiday Heroes' "MASK-erade"; Drive-in NW Film Festival; Navy Pier update; AIBI's Rev UP! honors Sherrill; Chicago Shakespeare Theater; Friends of Prentice's "Still Together, at Home"; Mark, (always) a Distinct Man of Honor; Luminarts' "Next Begins Now"; Chicago Children's Choir's "Reverberation"; Illinois Holocaust Museum SOIREE update; This & That; Fun videos and soooo much MORE!

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Costume Council's "Dressing Barbie" virtual fundraiser.

If you're a fan of the iconic Barbie Doll and you didn't Zoom into the Costume Council of the Chicago History Museum's "Dressing Barbie" event, then you really

Maggie Morgan co-chair

Maggie M. Morgan–co-chair

missed a great time! Fans, friends and supporters tuned in on Saturday, August 15 to see/ hear from Carol Spencer, one of the top Barbie Doll clothing designers whose book "Dressing Barbie" has created a sensation among fans who are young and young-at-heart. Before the event, Barbie Boxes, packed with loads of unique Barbie-related items, were sold for

Carol Spencer --speaker

Carol Spencer–keynote speaker, author, designer.

$100 each so viewers could truly get into the spirit of the occasion. Co-chairs Maggie M. Morgan and Dustin Erikstrup and other Costume Council members really did their

Dustin Erkistrup

Dustin Erikstrup–co-chair and event host.

homework on this incredible virtual event. They did everything right–remarkable and passionate speaker, great buzz surrounding the event, awesome collateral material, dedicated fans who made it fun and very, very interesting information artfully delivered. Kudos to committee members

Michelle Bibergal--president costume council

Michelle Bibergal–Costume Council president.

Heather Farley Ingram, Anne Forman, Blythe Lee, Elise Maltby, David Mordini, Dusty Stemer and Michelle Bibergal, the President of the Costume Council. Bibergal welcomed viewers saying, "By joining us today, you are helping the Museum preserve,

Three generations of Barbie fans  all family members--Denise  Sophia and Camilla Person  with Darlene Lovisa  Dina Dennis and Gina Bollenbach.

Three generations of Barbie fans, all family members–Denise Sophia and Camilla Person with Darlene Lovisa Dina Dennis and Gina Bollenbach.

collect and showcase our amazing 50,000 piece costume collection featuring garments from the past 250 years." Co-chair Dustin Erikstrup served as event host moving the presentation along and conducting a live Q & A with Carol at the end of the hour-long segment. In spite

Azusa Barbie-super fan

Azusa Barbie–Super Fan!

of an early sound glitch, the event moved along smoothly. Keynote speaker Carol Spencer built an extraordinary career as the designer of Barbie's fantastic fashions that impacted style while it thrilled children and adults for decades. The first Barbie Doll was launched on March 9, 1959 with businesswoman

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Watch Party host, Pam Capitanini, holds her Warhol Barbie print, a gift from her guests.

Ruth Handler being credited with the creation of the doll using a German doll called Bild

Pam  Simona Garcia  Rose Kallas  Christina Montgomery  Sasha Sino  Violetta Gutowska  Peggy Martay

Pam's Watch Party guests:  Simona Garcia, Rose Kallas, Christina Montgomery, Sasha Sino, Violetta Gutowska and Peggy Martay.

Lilli as her inspiration. During the presentation, Carol first spoke about her early years as a fashion designer that began in 1955 with her first job in a lingerie shop. Her 35 year career saw many changes with the doll. In 1980, Mattel created the first Black doll followed by Hispanic dolls. Now there are dolls that represent countries and ethnicities from all over the world. Currently, there are four sizes of dolls available: original, tall, petite and curvy. Most recently, former Chicagoans Matt Jacobi and his husband Nick Caprio convinced Mattel to acknowledge the gay market too after they had trouble creating a doll package to reflect their status for Matt's nieces. Their eventual collaboration birthed the

Barbie box

The Council's LOADED Barbie Box, $100 and so worth it!
Nick Caprio and Matt Jacobi

Nick Caprio and husband Matt Jacobi convinced Mattel to recognize the gay Barbie market.

"Same-Sex Barbie Wedding Fashion Packets"! Matt said, "This will give children the tools to imagine any kind of wedding they want. All couples can now be represented with their choice of wedding fashions along with the brand's diverse doll line. For children around the world, they now have the opportunity to put together, narrate and play out a wedding day that is reflective of their own life

Nick Caprio and Matt Jacobi at Barbie headquarters Jan. 2019.

Nick and Matt at Barbie headquarters in El Segundo, Calif. for a collab.

experience. We have great trust in Barbie. For now, we invite you to enjoy playtime with your little ones while reminding you that love is love!"  Amen to that. During the event, viewers hosted several

Matt Jacobi and Nick Caprio

Matt and Nick's custom "Barbie" gift for his nieces.

exciting, themed Watch Parties. Gina Bollenbach brought together 3 generations of Barbie lovers, all dressed in pink and holding their favorite dolls. The party included Denise, Sophia and Camilla Person and Darlene Lovisa and Dina Dennis. The most elaborate Watch Party Award goes to Pam Capitanini, who along with friends Simona Garcia,

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Totally Hair Barbie–the best selling Barbie of all time.

Rose Kallas, Christina Montgomery, Sasha Sino, Violetta Gutowska and Peggy Martay, enjoyed Barbie creativity that was unrivaled. Pam, along with daughter Lucia, had decorated her gorgeous Gold Coast home from top to bottom with Barbie inspiration: Barbie flower-filled vases, Barbie cookies in

Ruth handler

Ruth Handler is credited with creating the first Barbie Doll in 1959.

cellophane on tiny Barbie hangers, custom Barbie purses, Barbie coasters, food and placemats…well, you get the picture. Pam was gifted with a Warhol Barbie print signed by all her guests too. Awwww….The virtual event was sponsored by Richard and Diane Weinberg, Pamella Capitanini, Peggy Martay,

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A signed Classique Benefit Ball Barbie was the unique raffle prize donated by Pam Capitanini from her late mother's collection.

Elaine Cohen Rubin, Marci Holzer, Maggie M. Morgan and Noren Ungaretti. During the Q&A, Carol told the rapt viewers that her

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Diversity and curves for the current crop of Barbie Dolls.

favorite designs for Barbie were: The Golden Jubilee Barbie (that bears her name on the back); Totally Hair Barbie (the best selling doll of all time) and the Color Magic Barbie Series from the 60s which allowed kids to change the doll's hair color using a special solution. Today, 58 million Barbie Dolls are sold each year in over 150 countries. (For more about the Costume Council, please click here! Barbie fans, click here!)

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Rehearsal for "Get It Together," a world premiere choreographed by Hanna Brictson (Photo by Brictson).

Chicago Dancers United (CDU) announced that its recent virtual Dance for Life 2020: United as One event exceeded its financial goal, raising more than $170,000 in contributions from nearly 700 donors! The event, sponsored by Optum, took place August 10-15 and showcased Dance for Life performances from the past 29 years via video recordings on its website, chicagodancersunited.org, including works by the annual Partner Dance Companies—Giordano Dance Chicago, Hubbard Street Dance Chicago and The Joffrey Ballet—as well as past and present companies, including Hanna Brictson and Dancers, Chicago Dance Crash, Ensemble Español Spanish Dance Theater, Joseph Holmes Chicago Dance Theatre, Luna Negra Dance Theater, Muntu Dance Theatre, River North Dance Chicago, Thodos Dance Chicago, Trinity Irish Dance Company and Visceral Dance Chicago. Additional videos revisited previous Dance for Life finales by Randy Duncan

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Filming the world premiere for the virtual event. (Photo by Nadia Oussenko)

and Harrison McEldowney/Jeremy Plummer. Videos were available free on the website beginning August 10, with extended viewing opportunities continuing through August 23. As of publication date, there had been nearly 4,000 views of the archival videos. The culminating virtual event on Saturday, August 15 the original date for the 29th anniversary of Dance for Life scheduled at the Auditorium Theatre, featured the World Premiere of Get It Together choreographed by Hanna Brictson in response to COVID-19, performed by 23 dancers from throughout the Chicago area. Serving as hosts for the evening were Cortney Hall and Matthew Rodrigues, co-hosts

Cortney-Hall

Cortney Hall, co-host of NBC Chicago's "Chicago Today," and  event co-host.

of NBC Chicago’s  program Chicago Today. The final event also featured a Dance for Life highlights reel, remarks from board members and sponsors, details about resources available from The Dancers’ Fund, information about the 30th anniversary of Dance for Life in 2021, and more. Dance

Matt Rodrigues

Matt Rodrigues, co-host of NBC Chicago's "Chicago Today," and event co-host.

for Life brings Chicago's dance community together thanks to dancers who generously donate their time, energy, and artistry to support The Dancers’ Fund, which provides financial assistance to dance professionals diagnosed with a critical health need. The Fund has been expanded to help support dance community members who need financial assistance with routine medical expenses. Dance for Life also supports two partner agencies: AIDS Foundation Chicago, which mobilizes diverse communities across Illinois living with HIV, and the American Cancer Society, which is leading the fight for a world without cancer. (More info here)

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DIwgh12WsAEcom5Congrats to One Tail at a Time, a no-kill dog/cat shelter

Extralarge

OTAT executive director/founder Heather Owen.

located in Chicago's Bucktown neighborhood. The nonprofit just received the Collective Impact Award from Best Friends Animal Society, another nonprofit that recognizes outstanding local organizations working to save pets in need across the country. Stacy Rogers, Best Friends Midwest regional director, said of OTAT, "I recently told the executive director here [Heather Owen] that if I were an

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OTAT volunteer with adoptable puppies.

animal rescue group, I'd want to be just like them [OTAT] when I grew up! One Tail at a Time has built a community organization that is constantly growing and evolving to meet the needs of the pets and people where they live. They've helped shelter partners and families with pets, and have had a huge lifesaving impact in Chicago." Congrats and thanks to Heather, her fabulous team and her amazing nonprofit!" Congrats OTAT!

 

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Dinosaur Adventure Drive-Thru in Wheaton.

Everyone is looking for things to do these days, now that most of our normal means of entertainment have been closed or severely limited. We decided to take a drive to Wheaton, the DuPage County Fairgrounds to be exact, for a Dinosaur Adventure Drive-Thru! Since I was little, I've always had

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80 ft. T-Rex (Photo by Charlene Seaman)

dreams of being a paleontologist so I jumped at this opportunity. Granted, it's truly more of a kids' experience but we still had fun and I saw more than a few other couples in cars (with no kids) too so we weren't the only ones. The car line to get in is VERY daunting, I must admit, but by then we were fully committed having already bought our tickets online (as you must). The adventure is strictly a drive-thru and

Small

Kids at heart.

everyone is directed to stay in their vehicles. We were lucky to have a convertible which brought the dinos a little closer. They roar (although not nearly loud enough) and move a little….the cars snake throughout the grounds where over 80 different kinds of dinosaurs

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Carnival food!

are represented. A guided tour, which you can download prior to your arrival, explains in detail interesting tidbits about each species. There's also a cute puzzle pamphlet that each car receives which is great for the kids to play later. There are different ticket prices, with one package including a sort of swag bag (also for

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Baby dinos too! LOL!

the kiddies). A highlight and something that we didn't expect, was the carnival food (from Arlington's Best Concessions) that was available. Granted, you order and it's delivered to your car, but some of the offerings included funnel cakes, hotdogs, cotton candy, lemonade, sno-cones, hand-dipped caramel apples, nachos with cheese/peppers, popcorn and more. And don't forget to take advantage of the free photo opp (that you can download later) at the end. The experience is on now through Sept. 7. (For tickets and more info, click here) (Btw, nighttime seems to be better for viewing, thanks for this tip Charlene Seaman!)

 

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Liza Minnelli at Studio 54.

I ran across this great article about celebs partying in the '70s, many at Studio 54, and it brought back so many fun memories. I was lucky enough to go there when I lived in NYC while I was modeling with Wilhelmina. It was, as everyone has heard, THE place to be and, in hindsight, it was the most exciting nightclub I've ever

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Grace Jones at Studio 54.

been to in my life. I remember seeing Liza Minnelli, Halston and so many other celebs. I met Grace Jones there and she took a liking to me, inviting me and a fellow model back to her beautiful apartment after Studio. I'll always remember her all white piano and her fabulous outrageousness. She invited me to one of her performances in NYC after this encounter too but I didn't

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Calvin Klein and Brook Shields at Studio 54.

go (duh!?)…Studio became the place to be for one reason, its uber-strict door policy. It was always a scene but I do think because not everyone could get in, everyone wanted to go. I was very lucky as I never had to wait in line. Being friends with the doormen are always rule number one in places like this and I'm no fool. In the Decades TV segment below, I talk about the glory days of this iconic hotspot with Lorna Luft, Nikki Haskell, Ian Schrager, Anthony-Haden Guest and others. Ian Schrager and Steve Rubell opened this joy factory on April 26, 1977. (Ian's description of the opening in the video is priceless).  

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Dining out for lifeDining Out for Life Chicago! will take place Thursday, Sept. 24!  People can dine in, order takeout or delivery from your favorite restaurants to support TPAN's mission to serve people affected by HIV. I'm honored to serve as a co-chair with WGN-TV's Sean Lewis and restaurateur Amy Lawless. Dozens of participating restaurants across Chicagoland will support TPAN. Just a few include The Dearborn, Farmhouse Evanston, Hamburger Mary's Chicago, Lark, Mr. Brown's Lounge, Yoshi's Cafe Chicago and Uncommon Ground Edgewater. (More details here!) Thanks to ALL who participate!

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Illinois Holocaust inviteThe Illinois Holocaust Museum & Education Center's

Best Katie and me.

With The Voice Finalist Katie Kadan, who will be performing.

virtual SOIREE event, as you know, will be held on Wednesday, Sept. 2 at 7 pm. Their amazing raffle is now LIVE! Buy a ticket to win a Peleton indoor bike, a bottle of rare Old Rip Van Winkle Whiskey, a $1000 gift card to Chicago Cut Steakhouse or an iPad Air! Click here for all the raffle details and click here to join us for the live event featuring The Voice finalist Katie Kadan! (See her message below!)

 

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Sherrill bodine

AIBI's Rev Up! will honor Sherrill Bodine on Oct. 29.


Get ready to celebrate! The Apparel Industry Foundation will honor the one and only Sherrill Bodine at its annual Rev Up! Fashion Show benefit at Bentley Gold Coast on Thursday, October 29! All proceeds from the evening help support the work of AIBI which provides scholarships, educational programming, vocational training to young people starting careers in the sewn products industry, and most recently keeping unemployed theater stitchers working to produce PPE. (For tickets and more info, click here). (Rosemary Fanti illustration) Hope to see you ALL there!

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Facetunebest_16-08-2020-17-52-23It's always a thrill to try out new neighborhoods and see what they have to offer. Over the weekend, we visited the Farmer's IMG_3420Market in Wicker Park. The entrance was at 1425 N. Damen. With Covid precautions in full swing, visiting these markets is a little different now. First off, the line was two blocks long to get in due to social distancing restrictions. And, once inside, no food could be consumed on the premises which was pretty hard to do with a tamale stand, homemade donuts and ice cream and other such vendors. But we still enjoyed the beautiful offerings from Stamper Cheese, Lyons Fruit IMG_3421Farm & Green House, Iron Creek Farm and so many others. We loved Tomato Bliss, whose owner is dedicated to preserving the heirloom tomato trade. There were all IMG_3428 sorts of tempting treats made from these tasty tomatoes and we bought several. This market is open every Sunday from 8 am to 2 pm. We can't wait to tour more! According to Wiki, Chicago has 178 neighborhoods! We're gonna be very busy!  

 

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Thumbnail_CMFA 2020 IG SQR PSTThe Costume Council of the Chicago History Museum will host the 5th annual Chicago Men's Fashion Awards virtually this year, during the week of September 14-20. The CMFA Superstar Spotlight Series campaign will honor ten past, best-dressed winners who have the talent of combining fashion and philanthropy. The ten past winners answered an intensive questionnaire and their profiles will be released during this week accompanied by photos shot by Sandro Miller. The virtual event will raise awareness for the Costume Council and the Chicago History Museum and allow participants to win several fabulous prizes through a raffle. Follow along here and please support if you can.

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MASK-erade Guest Flyer v2-page-001I LOVE HOLIDAY HEROES! This amazing nonprofit provides joy and a much needed diversion for hospitalized kids by hosting themed parties, providing activity boxes and costumed characters and so much more. As we all know, fundraising these days is proving challenging but this organization, led by the much loved Felicia Winiecki (executive director), has planned a virtual CARNIVAL! The Midway Mask-erade will be held on Thursday, October 17 at 7 pm CST. Emceed by WGN's morning weatherman Paul Konrad, the event will feature performances by Sixteen Candles and Jeff Tweedy of Wilco, the magic of Ben Seidman (live from Las Vegas), amazing feats by the Actors Gymnasium and so much more. One of my favorites,  auctioneer Greg "The G-Man" Dellinger will also be presenting some fabulous packages and you can even "mix your own carnival cocktail" with Gibson's very own bartender Mark Wagner. (For all the details, click here!)

 

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PrenticeFriends of Prentice will host "Still Together, At Home," a virtual fundraiser that will take place on Saturday, October 24. The live event will celebrate the org's 35th anniversary and honor our healthcare heroes while raising funds for women's health research. To donate, click here and to register and for more info, click here.

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There are a few good things to come out of this pandemic Film festand the return of drive-ins is definitely one of them! The first annual NW Illinois Film Festival will be held Wednesday, Aug. 26 from 8 to midnight. This drive-in is located at 91 Palmyra Road in Sterling, Illinois (an hour and 48 minute drive from Chicago). The festival will celebrate Indie filmmakers and their work, which will include "Riding the Rails to Hero Street", "Follower", "Dearly Departed" and others. The event is free but registration is required. (email: condev@whiteside.org or visit filmnwillinois.com)

MyEyeDr package for back to schoolIf you have kids, this is a great, first time offer from MYEYEDR. Online or in the classroom, MyEyeDr.'s "True Blue (back to school) Deal" includes an exam, select frames, plus lenses with blue light protection, all for $149! Schedule your child's eye exam today here at your neighborhood MED. (They are my go-to favorite for all of my own eyecare needs).

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Drone Lake_5

Navy Pier

I was so sad to hear of the temporary closing of Navy Pier starting Tuesday, Sept. 8. I understand the need to limit the financial burden and impact of the ongoing pandemic on the organization but still… The closure will put a halt to all Pier-wide operations, including that of Navy Pier’s more than 70 small local businesses,

Shakespeare theater

Chicago Shakespeare Theater on the Pier.

which have also experienced significantly low attendance throughout the pandemic. Public access to the Pier’s outdoor spaces, including Polk Bros Park and North and South Docks, will also be limited or prohibited during the closure. One new business may open, however. The new 222-room Sable Hotel is nearing completion and

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Shakespeare Theater on the Pier.

Pier officials said it could go ahead and open while the rest of the pier is closed, according to Robert Habeeb, CEO of Maverick Hotels and Restaurants. He expects a November 1 opening. And, despite the Pier's planned closure through the winter months, Chicago Shakespeare Theater executive director Criss Henderson said in a statement the theater, which has been closed since March, “has exciting plans in place to welcome audiences back to the theater for the return of live, in-person performances as soon as it is safe to do so in early 2021.” Click here for the Theater's exciting 35th season virtual programming!

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Mark Roscoe, Distinct Man of Honor!

Congrats, with love, to one of Chicago's most revered and beloved fashion designers, Mark Roscoe. He was

Mark and his mom  Enzula Roscoe

Designer Mark Roscoe with his wise and beautiful late mom, Enzula Roscoe.

chosen as a Distinct Man of Honor 2020 by NVP 1 World Entertainment. Mark was honored for his "achievements, growth and virtuous culture that met our four pillars of the foundation: caring, loving, involvement in humanitarian activities and for influencing people positively throughout your career." It's not a surprise considering the advice Mark's late mom, Enzula Roscoe, gave him. "You can be anything or anybody that you set your mind to, but it's more important for you to be caring, compassionate and honorable. It's not what you do but how you do it."  I see you've heeded your mom's advice very well Mark! Kudos, well deserved!

 

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LuminartsLuminarts Cultural Foundation will host a virtual fundraiser, "Next begins Now," on Saturday, October 10. The event will feature performances and studio visits with the Foundation's Fellows and ways to support Luminart's mission of providing the resources needed for exemplary young artists to launch a professional career in the arts. The event will be co-chaired by Matt Olaveson and Adam Vitale and Kylie Krizek. For tickets and more info, click here!

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Chicago children's choirChicago Children's Choir will host a virtual celebration, "Reverberation: A Celebration of Enduring Voices," on Saturday, September 26 at 8 pm. This unique hybrid event will pair a FREE virtual concert program by the Chicago Children’s Choir, with exciting pre- and post-event festivities. The one-hour program will feature CCC performing a lively selection of inspirational works ranging

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Josephine Lee, Chicago Children's Choir president/artistic director, w/ choir members.

from U2’s "One to Just a Dream," written by 11-year-old Choir member Jamion Cotten with Choir alum W. Mitchell Owens, to special guest appearances. Pre-Show gatherings will feature engagement with CCC singers virtually or via curbside performances, while an After-Party featuring popular DJ Matt Roan will keep the party going! Creative hospitality packages, provided by BOKA Catering and Kehoe Designs, invite guests to replicate the ‘gala experience’ at home with options ranging from an in-home Chef-crafted dinner for ten to DIY meal and cocktail kits. Guests may register here!

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BalloonsAnd, in closing, I have no idea if this is a true story or not, but I sure hope it is: A wise teacher once brought balloons to school, told her pupils to blow them up and write their name on one. After the children tossed their balloons into the hall, the teacher moved through the

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Please send info to Candace@CandidCandace.com

hall mixing them all up. The kids were given five minutes to find the balloon with their name on it, but though they searched frantically, no one found their own balloon. Then the teacher told them to take the balloon closest to them and give it to the person whose name was on it. In less than two minutes, everyone was holding their own balloon. The teacher said to the children, “These balloons are like happiness. We won't find it when we're only searching for our own. But if we care about someone else's happiness…it will ultimately help us find our own.”

Love, as always,

Candace

Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. And now, something to leave you with a smile….


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Filed under Books, Chicago, Culture, Current Affairs, Fashion, Film, Food and Drink, Sports, Television, Travel

FASHION AND PHILANTHROPY FOR SERVICE CLUB’S VIRTUAL “DAY ON THE TERRACE”

Plus: PAWS Chicago, down on the farm; Justin, Hailey & Chance hit the town; Adler's Celestial Ball; Chicago Lighthouse's virtual FLAIR fashion show; "Hope in Bloom" for Debi Lilly; Kathy's (FAB) Che Sguardo; Lookingglass Theatre Company's "Chicago Stories"; Porchlight Palooza; European flair for Maple & Ash; Eli's ARK Chicago (a VERY sweet treat!); Big Shoulders Fund Golf Classic; Azeeza designs for BEYONCE!; BEST virtual event calendar right HERE!; The Voice's Katie Kadan to star at Holocaust Museum's SOIREE; DINOS in DUPAGE; Welcome Baby Luca; The Joffrey Ballet is "pulling back the curtain"; This & That; Cute videos and SOOO much more!

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DOT co-chairs Tracey DiBuono, Sharyl Mackey, Jean Antoniou and Jamie Thorsen.

There is a very good reason why The Service Club of Chicago has been around since 1890! Their survival instincts have been intact through the 1918 Spanish Flu, the Crash of '29 and two World Wars! This year, in the time of Covid,

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SC president Sherrill Bodine (wearing Lauren Lein) and Andrea "Nou Nou" Antoniou, SC Auxiliary Board President, at Marchesa Watch Party.

they proved their mettle once again with a brilliant pivot from their always sold-out "Day on the Terrace" fashion show, held virtually this year on Monday, August 3. The event was co-chaired by SC members Sharyl Mackey, Jean Antoniou, Tracey DiBuono and Jamie Thorsen,

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Gibson's Watch Party hostess Sherry Lea Holson (L) and friends.

with DiBuono's ZZAZZ Productions producing the show. The taped, fashion show portion of the event took place socially distanced and masked at The Geraghty (thank you Tom Kehoe, BlackOak Productions and Kehoe Designs) on July 20 with just 28 models. Typically, this popular event is held at the Peninsula with over 75 models on the runway! This year's first look at fall fashion showcased designer looks from alice+olivia, Carlisle,

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Tina Weller at her glam-filled Watch Party at her home in Hinsdale.

Contessa Bottega, Cram Fashion (menswear), Elda de la Rosa Couture, Max Mara at Bloomingdale's, Maximilian Furs at Bloomingdale's, Mira Couture, Neiman Marcus Michigan Avenue, St. John Boutique, SYLWIA and Tom James. The live event portion featured

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Michelle Baker, Jamie Thorsen, Melissa Babcock wearing Max Mara at Bloomingdale's.

"satellite remotes" from some local watch parties around town. SC president Sherrill Bodine hosted an event at Marchesa with Auxiliary Board president Andrea Antoniou, DOT Hat Luncheon co-chair Michelle Baker and friends. Tina Weller and her bevy of beautiful girlfriends (that included Maple &

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Rose Kallas hosts Watch Party with cute friends in the Gold Coast.

Ash's Mary Lasky) gathered at her gorgeous home in Hinsdale (and also celebrated Tina's 50th birthday)! Sherry Lea Holson gathered a group of cute friends at Gibson's to watch, all dressed in safety-first PPE

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Paula Borg, Felicia Winiecki and Sheree Valukas.

plastic face shields. Friends there included Kathy O'Malley Piccone, Paula Borg, Frances Renk and others. SC vice-president Myra Reilly hosted an elegant soiree at her Lake Forest home with last year's DOT honoree Marguerite Hark, Cheryl Coleman, Susan Regenstein, Susan Gohl, John Reilly (who has

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Kathy O'Malley Piccone wears Elda de la Rosa. (Photo by John Reilly)

been such a big supporter of ALL SC events) and others. Heather Spyra also hosted a watch party with her good friend Peggy Klingenberg. In other parts of

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Neiman Marcus' Wendy Krimins with SC vice-president Myra Reilly.

the city, Rose Kallas hosted a party that included Pam Capitanini, Peggy Martay, Susan Colletti, Dusty Stemer and others. Greg Hyder and Jim Smith hosted a darling DOT brunch at their new home in Irving Park with the men who modeled in the CRAM fashion segment including store owner Marc Engel and his partner Stephane Gonzalez, Craig Hogan and Rudy Zavala. Besides the exciting fashion, a highlight of the event was the surprise shout-outs from

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CRAM models–Owner, Marc Engel, Scott Bobek, Greg Hyder, Shaun Rajah, Craig Hogan and Tom Kehoe. (Photo by John Reilly)

celebrities and local media stars. Lending their support in congratulatory videos were Jerry Springer ("Judge Jerry");

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Alayna Crenshaw wearing Elda de la Rosa. (Photo by John Reilly)

Leslie Zemeckis (actress, author, award-winning documentarian and 1/2 of THE Hollywood Power Couple with husband/director Robert Zemeckis); Ryan Chiaverini (Windy City Live); Maria Pappas (Cook County Treasurer); Chef Art Smith and husband/artist Jesus Salgueiro; NBC Chicago co-hosts Cortney Hall and Matt Rodrigues; Fabrice Calmels (former lead dancer The Joffrey Ballet); Israel Idonije (philanthropist and former Chicago Bear); LeeAnn Trotter (NBC-5 Entertainment Reporter); Sylvia Perez (Fox-32 news anchor); Melissa Forman (93.8 LITE FM's "Melissa Forman in the Morning"); Lisa Fielding (Newsradio 780 anchor/reporter); Zoraida Sambolin (WMAQ-TV news anchor); Molly Callinan (lead singer for Gary Sinise's Lt. Dan Band and all-girl cover band Catfight) and Chilli Pepper (world famous female impersonator, Baton Show Lounge star). Other congratulatory videos came from Maria Zec (GM Peninsula Chicago) and Lakesha and Jim Rose. Callinan ended the show belting out "Walking in Memphis" with DJ Akib playing dance

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Mary Lasky and Sharyl Mackey.

music. The event raised over $70,000 for SC's Philanthropic Grant Program and already has

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Bobbi Panter (wearing SYLWIA) and Annette Findling (wearing Elda de la Rosa).

other events lined up (no surprise here!), including its popular Hat Luncheon, this year themed "A White House Floral Affair" and, of course, going virtual on Thursday, Sept. 3; Auxiliary Board Bingo on Sept. 13; the "Phantom Gala" which will run from October 12-25 and the Holiday Luncheon scheduled for Friday, December 4. (All event details here). Congrats to all of these hard-working members and those who support them!

 

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IMG_2519Even though the attendees were socially distanced and masked on the 35 acre farm, that didn't mean they weren't close in heart for animal welfare. PAWS Chicago hosted a "Summer Farm Party" on Saturday, August 1 for longtime supporters and donors. We were so happy to have a reason for a road trip so Chuck, Rooney and I happily drove to

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Angie DeMars with our Rooney Rules.

LaPorte for some fun and philanthropy on the Fasseas Farm. The setting was breathtaking and so relaxing. Even lil' Rooney came alive with the fresh country air and the scents from the "doggie buffet"! One of the barns on the property had been transformed into a state-of-the-art "retreat space" for Level 3 dogs with "issues." There, they are gently rehabilitated so

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PAWS founder Paula Fasseas with Suzanne LeMignot.

they can find their forever homes. The digs are so inviting. I can't imagine how happy those dogs must be living there. Upon arrival, smiling PAWS volunteers directed us to the fun. Everything was very spread out due to the Covid concerns but still easily accessible. I loved seeing the animals brought from "A Zoo to You." Chickens, goats, cows and sheep co-mingled peacefully while a little Shetland pony peeked

Susanna and Chris Wickham.

Susanna Homan, Chris Wickham and "kids."

around the corner, all saddled up and ready for kiddie rides.  Live country music from Rendition filled the air along with one of PAWS' favorite DJs, Dan Holloway (Icon Entertainment). A delicious menu featured freshly made guacamole, salsa and chips; jumbo shrimp cocktail; grilled portabella burgers with carmelized

Nique Christensen and peeps.

Nique Christensen, Bruce Haas, Phillip Emight and Angie DeMars.

onions on brioche buns from Hewn Bakery in Evanston; grilled 1/3 lb. beef burgers from LaPryor Farms in Ottawa, Illinois; grilled Butcher & Larder all-beef, grass-fed Wagyu hot dog; locally made peach and blueberry pie with vanilla ice cream, triple chocolate brownies and freshly sliced watermelon. A French green bean salad and Italian potato salad were served as sides. And even though there was a

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Dirk Peterson and Michele Mistovich.

beautiful pool, sadly I didn't see anyone swimming. During a short program, longtime PAWS friend, country radio personality Lisa Dent, who owns several PAWS rescue dogs, served as emcee. Alexis and Paula Fasseas

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Socially distanced remarks from emcee Lisa Dent, Paula Fasseas and auctioneer David Goodman.

(founders PAWS Chicago) spoke about ongoing rescue efforts and updates. Paula said, "Your continual support of PAWS Chicago, especially during this pandemic, is greatly appreciated. Funds raised through our Virtual Beach Party and this farm event are crucial to PAWS Chicago's ability to continue to care for and save homeless dogs and cats. Thank you for helping ensure that the Medical Center can continue to treat illnesses, that the Lincoln Park Adoption Center can continue to find loving homes for our animals, and

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Alexis Fasseas introduces some cute PAWS dogs.

that our Community Outreach program can continue to serve needy pets and their people." A live auction was conducted by David Goodman that included a one-week stay at Meadow House, a luxurious 3-bed, 3-bath home on 30 acres; a one-week stay for 10 at a private 7500-sq-ft home in

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Walter Jacobson and Kim Gleeson.

the Dominican Republic and a 6-night stay for 12 in a luxury mountain retreat in Breckenridge, Colorado. Farm party guests included Phillip Emigh, Bruce Haas, Angie DeMars, Susanna Homan and Chris Wickham, Kim Gleeson, Walter Jacobson, Suzanne LeMignot, Claudia Tangman, Tom Hayes, Amy Halsted, Michele Mistovich, Dirk Peterson, Nique Christensen and many others. One of the sweetest touches was the take-home gift, farm fresh veggies in a bag!!! Oh, what a fine day! (And mark your calendars now for PAWS Chicago's 5K Walk/Run set for October 31! Details here!)

 

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Chance the Rapper, Justin and Hailey Bieber at Beatrix.

Even with the crime and Covid, Chicago is still a celebrity magnet! Spotted around town were Justin and Hailey Bieber lunching and dining with our own

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Justin's photo of his beautiful wife Hailey at RPM Seafood.

Chance the Rapper. The trio visited Beatrix on Wednesday, July 29 sitting outside on the patio around 12:30 pm. Hailey sipped on an Iced Matcha with Honey & Oat Milk (thought you needed to know this). They chatted and enjoyed the weather at the neighborhood restaurant and coffeehouse for about an hour and a half. After coffee at Beatrix, they went for dinner that same night at RPM Seafood, sitting outside on a private terrace overlooking the Chicago River. After they finished dinner, which included the restaurant's signature Seafood Tower, they enjoyed dessert, Cookies & Cream Ice Cream Cake. On their way out, they stopped to take photos with a few fans outside the restaurant. On Bieber's Insta page he said of the evening and of his wife, "the love of his life," "This is my view during date night. Wtf. I'm so blessed."

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Celestial BallThe Adler Planetarium will host a (virtual) Celestial Ball on Saturday, Sept. 12 with a pre-party beginning at 6 pm and the main event at 6:30 pm CST. Free on Adler's YouTube, $25 for access to Pre-Party via Zoom (main event will be streamed from Zoom to YouTube) This entirely online event will give you an exclusive first look at how the Adler experience is being reimagined for a digital age, with virtual exhibitions and innovative programming. Join them and find out what’s on the horizon for the next 90 years. Click here for all the info!

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Flair chicago lighthouse oct.Mark your calendars NOW for The Chicago Lighthouse's Virtual Flair Fashion Show (produced by ZZAZZ Productions), Friday, Oct. 16 from 11 am -12:30 CST! Co-chaired by Sheree Valukas and Sherrill Bodine, the event will give you a front row seat at new collections from top luxury brands and designers all while supporting life changing programs for children who are blind, visually impaired or disabled. As always, this year's event features an inclusive runway of

Cheryl and Sheree FLAIR co-chairs

Hard-working, adorable event co-chairs Sheree Valukas and Sherrill Bodine.

diverse models including Chicago's prominent women and business leaders, as well as employees of The Chicago Lighthouse, many with disabilities.  Watch parties will be offered this year so you can enjoy the event with friends. There will also be an inspiring performance by

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Gaelynn Lea will perform.

Gaelynn Lea Music, 2016 winner of NPR’s Tiny Desk Contest and internationally acclaimed singer-songwriter and violinist who advocates for disability rights and accessibility in the arts. To help build the excitement leading up to the event, don’t miss out on Master Classes with FLAIR, which are included with VIP – All Access tickets ($175) or can be purchased individually. These classes will offer great inspiration and “how-to’s” to look and feel your best again. The silent auction is one that you won't want to miss, including everything from salon and fitness experiences to elegant jewelry. Buy your tickets now here!  (100% of ticket price supports the Lighthouse's Children's Programs)

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Debi Lilly, and friend, holding her "Hope in Bloom" bouquet.

Nobody does it like Debi Lilly, owner/founder of one of the TOP event planning companies, A Perfect Event. We all know she has the ultimate knack for beautifying and planning events but I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE her floral arranging (and choosing) talents. Check out her new, gorgeous "Hope in Bloom" bouquet. With each purchase, meals will be IMG_2938 (2)donated to first responders in senior centers and hospitals from local restaurants coast to coast, as well as a donation to American Heart Association's rapid research antiviral accelerator to fight Covid-19! With 50 stems of farm fresh peach, orange and white blooms, this bursting bouquet features roses, spray roses, dianthus, snapdragons, dusty miller, hypericum berries and lush greens! Flowers and philanthropy, a winning match! Thanks so much Debi! (Item #VF1B8), $80, order here!  

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Happy 15th BD dear Rooney Rules!

Happy 15th birthday to the love/light of our lives, Rooney

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Rooney Rules Springfield!

Rules! He may be a little hard of hearing and a little wobbly on his feet, but his heart is still as big as all outdoors. Thank you PAWS Chicago for letting us adopt/snatch this little bundle of love from that fateful PAWS Development Board meeting….I knew once he got around to me that I would never let him go. Check out all the PAWS' dogs and cats available for adoption here!

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Kathy Schmalen-Abbene, owner Che Sguardo.

Simply the best makeup place around, Che Sguardo (208 W.

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Che Sguardo,208 W. Huron.

Huron). I've been a fan of this spot, that also offers skincare, lessons and more, for over 30 years and have been friends with the owner, Kathy Schmalen-Abbene, a former top model, for a long time too. She scours the globe for the latest and greatest in makeup and skincare and, believe me, you will find things here you've never seen before. Love her, love her store! Check her out!

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LookingglassJoin Lookingglass Theatre Company for its Aug. 20 Chicago Stories initiative that will revisit a largely unknown piece of history that unfolded on July 24, 1915, in the heart of the City, the Eastland Disaster. On the evening of Thursday, August 20 at 7pm CT, you’re invited to a free online public watch party/fundraiser of the Company's acclaimed production of EASTLAND: AN ORIGINAL MUSICAL in support of the Theatre. After the show, join creative team members Andrew White and Andre Pluess for a post-show conversation. The event will be streamed on Lookingglass Theatre’s YouTube and Facebook pages. More information here!

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PaloozaCelebrate Porchlight Music Theatre's 25th Anniversary at Porchlight Palooza — Featuring Broadway legend and ICON Award recipient Joel Grey! An entertainment-packed, FREE three-episode online streaming event featuring all new performances and surprise appearances by your favorite musical theatre artists (including Bernadette Peters, Kristin Chenoweth, Raul Esparza, Josh Gad, Mandy Patinkin, Tonya Pinkins and Chita Rivera) dreamy raffle prizes and more! August 21–23, nightly at 7pm CDT. The three day virtual festival will culminate with an interview between legendary broadcaster Bill Kurtis and honoree Joel Grey!

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16 W. Maple

Maple & Ash has a beautiful new patio!

Wow, a little bit of Europe in Chicago for Maple & Ash, 16 W. Maple! Their beautiful new patio recently opened AND with a new menu item, SUSHI! Kudos Mary and Jim Lasky and team! For res, call (312) 944-8888.

Thanks to NBC Chicago co-hosts Matt Rodriguez and Cortney

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Sweet treat at Eli's Ark Chicago, 1843 W. North Ave. 

Hall for introducing us to just the cutest ice cream place, Eli's Ark Chicago, at 1843 W. North Ave.! The talented and creative staff serve up the most adorable sweets for the young and young-at-heart! Well worth a visit!

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Beyonce wearing AZEEZA!

Congrats to Azeeza Khan, one of Chicago's much loved designers who is truly making her mark in the design world. Her fashions can be found at the best high end stores AND she has now dressed Barbra Streisand AND Beyonce! Her colorful gowns can be seen in Bee's latest visual album, "Black Is King."  Kudos Azeeza!

I'm very sad to be missing all of our deserving nonprofits' in-person fundraisers. At this point, I don't have a feel when CHM_Barbie_Eblast_RND8they might return but I will continue to cover as many of their virtual events as I can HERE so please stay tuned. AND Chicago Lighthouseplease send me any event info that you might be aware of too. For now, this is what I have on my calendar. 1) Costume Council of the Chicago History Museum  "Dressing Barbie" on Saturday, August 15, 11 am;  2) Service Club of Chicago's "White House Floral Affair" (hat luncheon), Thursday, Sept, 3 11 am-1 pm; 3) Chicago Lighthouse's "Seeing What's Possible" gala, Sat., Sept. 12, 7-8 pm; 4) Boys & Girls Clubs LAWN BALL, Friday, Sept. 25, 8 pm; 5) JourneyCare All Stars of Project Runway, Saturday, Sept. 26; 6) St. Jude Four Stars Restaurant Extravaganza, Tuesday, Sept. 29; 7) 1st Gen Scholarship Gala (benefiting Chicago State University), Friday, October 2, 7 pm; 8) WINGS Purple Tie Ball, Saturday, Oct. 3, 9) A Silver Lining Foundation Gala, Saturday, Oct. 3; 10) Lynn Sage Cancer Research Foundation Fall Benefit, Thursday, October 22; 11) Big Shoulders Fund, "Reach for the Stars," Friday, October 23; 12) (STILL PLANNED LIVE) Victory Gardens' Theatre's Chicago Stories Gala (Four Seasons, Sat., Oct. 24); 13) (STILL PLANNED LIVE) Boys & Girls Clubs' Women's Board Ball, Sat., Nov. 7, Four Seasons Chicago.

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Holocaust museumPlease mark your calendar's for this year's Illinois Holocaust Museum's SOIRÉE, presented by its Women's Leadership Committee, on Wednesday, Sept. 2 at 7 pm

BEST

With The Voice's Katie Kadan, who will bring the house down with her SOIREE performance! Don't miss it!

CST. I'm excited and honored to be hosting this virtual event that will include performances by The Voice finalist Katie Kadan, AMAZING surprise celebrity shout-outs, survivor stories and so much more. In preparation for this night, I took a tour of the Museum last week and was so moved by what I saw in that 65,000-square-foot space at 9603 Woods Drive in Skokie. The 3D interactive hologram of Survivors'

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Great rehearsals for event at FROST Chicago.

stories was profoundly moving and created by the Museum, which is the first in the world to employ this technology in a permanent exhibition space. To create this interactive experience, 13 Survivors from around the world agreed to go through a rigorous interviewing process. Each of the participating Survivors spent several days in a Los Angeles studio, answering over 2,000 questions about their Holocaust experiences before the unblinking gaze of 50-plus cameras. The experience is interactive and you can ask all the Survivors questions about their lives. Take a look at Fritzie Fritzshall's story below and I hope you get a chance to visit the Museum soon AND join me for the virtual event on Sept. 2 (Event details here!)

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Kevin O’Hara  Daniel Shakeshaft  Rorak Siko and Jeffrey Oostema

Kevin O’Hara, Daniel Shakeshaft, Rorak Siko and Jeffrey Oostema played in the Big Shoulders Fund Golf Classic.

Big congrats to the Big Shoulders Fund, an independent charitable organization that supports inner-city schools across the Chicagoland area, on its latest major fundraising effort, the 20th annual Golf Classic! This event, held at the Olympia Fields Country Club on August 3, raised nearly $600,000 and brought together more than 115 civic and corporate leaders.  The funds raised supported the Friends of Big Shoulders

Giancarlo Turano II – Golf Classic Co-Chairman

Giancarlo Turano II – Golf Classic co-chair.

Scholarship Fund, which provides critical tuition assistance to a portion of the nearly 20,000 students and families seeking access to a quality, values-based education at one of the 72 Big Shoulders Fund schools in Chicago. “The COVID-19 pandemic has greatly impacted many of our students and families and the communities in which they live,” said Josh Hale, President/CEO of Big Shoulders Fund. “We’re overjoyed at the continued support we receive from a committed philanthropic community that believes in the mission of Big Shoulders Fund and sees bright futures for the students we serve. Now, more than ever, our students need our support to ensure they continue to have access to a high-quality academic experience and a supportive school community.”

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Dinosaur Adventure Drive-Thru coming to DuPage County Fairgrounds.

DINOS IN DUPAGE! The Dinosaur Adventure Drive-Thru is coming to the DuPage County Fair Grounds, Aug 21 to Aug 30. Featuring over 80 life-size Dinosaurs, a 40-foot T-Rex, massive Triceratops, 30-foot tall Brontosaurus and many more. Enjoy all the prehistoric fun from the comfort and safety of your vehicle! I have our tix for Friday but they're going fast! Get yours here! 

 

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The Joffrey Ballet's Nutcracker.

In lieu of a fall Luncheon, The Joffrey Ballet is thrilled to present a new virtual fundraising event, "Pulling Back the Curtain: The Nutcracker." In November 2020, we’ll get a glimpse at The Nutcracker like never before with behind the scenes footage, interviews with Company Artists and members of the Artistic team, and delightful surprises to celebrate this beloved tradition. Guests can add to the magic in their own home by purchasing party packages with food, beverage, and merchandise. The program will be appealing to all ages, so that guests from age 2 to 92 can share an afternoon together to get into the holiday spirit! The event will be co-chaired by WB members Melinda Jakovich-Lagrange, Jessica Jecmen and Marcie Wright. The potential event date will be either November 7 or 8, and I'll share an update just as soon as this information is confirmed.  (Check here for more info!) 

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PoohWith the world spinning at such a pace and Chicago being turned upside down, I always think of this quote by the English theologian and historian Thomas Fuller. "It is always darkest just before the dawn." I pray this is true because we are going through some of the darkest days I've ever experienced here in our beautiful city. Looters seem to be on every corner and the disrespect towards our police is at an all-time high. I am not a political person but I do have common sense and I think I know what's right and what's morally wrong. There is no excuse for all this crime. NONE. PERIOD. I hope these hard times will serve a positive purpose as a wake up call to our communities, government officials and citizens. Protesting for what you believe in is one thing but trashing a city is an entirely different matter and should NOT be allowed in any way, shape or form.

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Luca Herbert Fonda

Luca Herbert Fonda, welcome to the world!

And while Rome is burning and Nero is fiddling, there IS some

Giancarlo Fonda and Samantha Amato

Proud parents-Giancarlo Fonda and Samantha Amato.

good news! Love and huge congrats to friend Rhonda Sanderson, a first time glam-ma now that her daughter Samantha Amato and Giancarlo Fonda have welcomed a new baby boy into the world, Luca Herbert Fonda. He has arrived just when he's needed the most, brightening the lives of all who love him! Love and congrats to ALL!

Love, as always,

Candace

Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. And now, something to make you smile…..

 

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Filed under Books, Chicago, Culture, Current Affairs, Fashion, Film, Food and Drink, Sports, Television, Travel

UNCERTAIN TIMES CAN’T STOP US: PAWS CHICAGO’S BIG, BAD VIRTUAL BEACH PARTY

Plus: Memories of Jerry Taft, Regis Philbin and Rep. John Lewis; Princess Beatrice's intimate Royal wedding; Planning Service Club of Chicago's first virtual "Day on the Terrace"; Caylei's Cancer Wellness Mag; Deerpath Inn is WINNING; Larry Wert shares ALL in Chicago mag; Statues, here today, gone tomorrow; The BEST Covid response; Common Threads is on the Chopping Block; 1st Gen Scholarship Gala with John Robak; Artadia photography award finalists are BIG DEALS; April and Miguel's happy news; See Chicago Dance has reason to celebrate; Richard Driehaus' Summer Party; Drive 'N Drag with RuPaul; Dance for Life 2020; LSCRF's Fall Benefit; This & That; Inspiring videos and SO much MORE!

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Tinsley Mortimer

PAWS Chicago presented its first virtual fundraiser on Thursday, July 23. The 18th annual Beach Party had viewers/supporters tuning in from across the country to help save the lives of homeless pets. I loved the fact that PAWS' amazing team put this event together with such finesse and enthusiasm and so quickly too! The bulk of the socially distanced event was filmed at Gravity Well Studio, 1701 W. Hubbard. This full-service, state-of-the-art studio DONATED all of their

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Fox 32's Jake Hamilton

services to support PAWS! I was thrilled to be invited to appear as a co-host for the opening segment, a Red Carpet event, with Phillip Emigh (co-owner Tails in the City). The adorable catwalk/dogwalk included

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Fox 32's Brittney Payton (photo by Mark Olley).

appearances from Indra, who Phillip held in his arms during the filming. She is a 5 year-old Shih Tzu who was picked up by an Animal Control Officer after her owner passed away. She was severely matted and required a full shave down. My little Rooney was also featured but, at age 14, he prefers the comfort of his own home to a studio. He is a PAWS rescue too. Other rescues featured in the opening segment included Wolfgang (owned by David and Vasoula Rekhson; Shayna Madela, owned by board member

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Tails in the City's Phillip Emigh. (Photo by Mark Olley)

Elly Greenphan; cats Danny and Toby owned by Level 3

David Hasselhoff

The HOFF, David Hasselhoff.

PAWS volunteer extraordinaire Joan Marie Dauber; Jodee and Chewie, pups owned by Darae McNair; Lucy, a pup owned by Nancy Sterling who found her at Beach Party 2007; and Gus Homan, the darling rescue owned by Chicago magazine's Susanna Homan, the mag was the print media sponsor for the event. A special tribute was given to Abigail, an adorable Chihuahua owned by Michele Mistovich, who crossed over the Rainbow Bridge earlier this month. Fox 32's Jake Hamilton and Brittney Payton emceed the event. Jake was in the studio brimming with

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Billy Corgan, Chloe Mendel and their son.

energy and Brittney had pre-recorded her segment. Jake thanked sponsor Merrick Pet Care, which has been PAWS Chicago's exclusive feeding partner since 2013, providing nutritious pet food to every homeless animal from the moment they arrive at PAWS to their adoptive home. Merrick donated an additional $10,000 since PAWs reached/surpassed its fundraising goal. Brittney's segment featured an adoptable cat parade with Fred ("Fred and Angi" on 103.5 KISS FM) and Lisa Dent, an award-winning

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PAWS Chicago founder Paula Fasseas in mid-sentence. (Sorry Paula!)

country music on-air personality, providing commentary. Next up, was Barrio's general manager/mixologist Pepe Fernandez, who demonstrated how to create a tasty PAW-garita. An adoptable dog parade followed presented by Brittney.

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Country star Brett Eldridge.

There were so many moving parts which is exactly what you need for a successful virtual fundraiser. Celebrity guests included surprise appearances by THE HOFF, David Hasselhoff; Billy Corgan, Chloe Mendel and their son (along with their rescue cats) and Real Housewives' Tinsley Mortimer. WGN-TV's Pat Tomasulo introduced an adorable beach bod competition (each winner received a Merrick Pet Care pack and more) that was won by Chompers (a tiny, adorable Yorkie); surf dog Charlie and Tilly Cat. During the live taping, PAWS founder Paula Fasseas shared some exciting info. She said, "During this

Leigh Primack  Wendy Elstien  Phillip and Angie

Leigh Primack, Wendy Elstien, Phillip Emigh and Angie DeMars at a viewing party.
Chompers a teacup yorkie

Chompers, a teacup yorkie, won the Beach Bod bikini competition.

Covid-19 crisis, PAWS Chicago never closed its doors to pets in need. In fact, we expanded our services to support the community. We launched a virtual adoption process, offered virtual dog training classes, adapted community outreach programs by establishing a mobile Pet Food Pantry, and provided Telehealth appointments for pet owners in Englewood, West Englewood and Back of the Yards (who would otherwise have no access to veterinary services); created a Crisis Care Foster Initiative; and continued to operate the Lurie Spay/Neuter Clinic. Country music star Brett Eldridge performed his beautiful hit song "Gabrielle (from the Heartland") to close the show. The event raised $73,225 for PAWS Chicago (with NO overhead!). If you're interested in more info or to donate, please click here! And watch PAWS' Virtual Beach Party below:

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6333334_072420-wls-krash-jerry-taft-4p-vid-vidI was so sad to hear of the passing of Jerry Taft, the much loved and long time ABC-7 weatherman who retired in 2018. Besides being a great reporter, his sense of humor is what I'll remember most. He used to host the most wonderful Christmas parties at his home, DJing from a perch in his living room. He was loved by one and all and so well respected by his many peers. Take a look at the wonderful video tribute below to see him in action. RIP dear Jerry.

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Regis Philbin with his longtime friend and former producer, Rob Morhaim, at a Notre Dame game.

Another much loved legend in the world of television, Regis Philbin, passed away at the age of 88. He held the Guinness Book of World Records for having the "Most Hours on Camera"! He set the record on his August 20, 2004 Live show (replacing Hugh Downs), which gave him a total of 15,188 hours on television (at that time). I was honored to be invited to be in WCIU's "You & Me"

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Reeg, with "You & Me" co-hosts Melissa Forman and Jeanne Sparrow during their "Regis Special."

audience in September of 2015 for a "Regis Special" produced by his longtime friend and his former ABC Live executive producer, Rob Morhaim, who was senior executive producer at Weigel Broadcasting at the time. It was a complete love fest with every single person on set acting like giggling kids over Reeg's larger-than-life presence. He couldn't have been kinder or more in-the-moment. That's one of the things, I think, that made him so special.

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Regis poses with the entire WCIU "You & Me" crew during his special taping.

He was ALWAYS in the moment and bubbling over with enthusiasm and he was never acting. He obviously loved what he did and lived for it. Rob and Regis were great, long-time friends who met in 2003 when Rob became the ED of his show. They immediately hit it off and their working relationship quickly grew into a deeply personal one. Rob said one of his favorite moments with  Regis was this particular special WCIU show with co-hosts Jeanne Sparrow and Melissa Forman. Rob said, "When he agreed to come,  I said to him, now pick a weekend when Notre Dame is playing football at home and we’ll spend the

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Pals Regis Philbin and our own Rob Morhaim.

weekend there. He jumped at the idea and I set it all up. You have no idea what it’s like to accompany Regis during a football weekend at Notre Dame. We were treated like royalty, met with the team in the locker room, watched from the field and had lunch with the President of the University. We even went to his old dorm room and knocked on the door. The kid who was living there at the time almost passed out because he was told it was

I

RIP dear Regis…you brought so much joy to so many.

Regis’s room and Lo and behold there he was. I always knew I was with a TV legend but I will always remember him as my great friend." Beautiful memories Rob, thanks for sharing this and for bringing him to CHICAGO!!!  What Rob didn't mention, that I remember well, is that a tricked up car was hired to drive Reeg around town…when he got in it the car bounced up and down like a rap star's! Lol!

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RIP Rep. John Lewis, may you continue to make "good trouble."

It was so moving watching the "Lion" John Lewis crossing the Edmund Pettus Bridge for the last time. Lewis, a former U.S. Representative from Georgia and a civil rights champion, will be the first African American to lie in state at the US Capitol rotunda. In

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Rep. Lewis' final trip over the Edmund Pettus Bridge which may be renamed in his honor.

1965, at the height of the civil rights movement, activists organized a march for voting rights from Selma, Alabama, to Montgomery. Lewis suffered a skull fracture following a beating by police. He said, "I regret that I have but one cracked skull to give for my people." He was arrested over 40 times and felt good about getting into "good trouble" as he called it. The caisson holding Lewis' body crossed the bridge atop rose petals and amid gospel singing surrounded by his family. Rest in power Mr. Lewis.

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Newlyweds Princess Beatrice and Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi. 

I will admit it, I'm a sucker for Royal Weddings and I just loved the beauty and simplicity of Princess Beatrice's, 31, who tied the knot with Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi in Windsor on Friday, July 17. The low-key royal wedding was kept secret from the public until afterwards. According to Express, the nuptials were attended by just 20 guests including Queen Elizabeth

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Socially distancing with the Queen and Prince Phillip.

II, 94, and Prince Philip, 99. (Her parents, Prince Andrew and Sarah, Duchess of York, were not in attendance). Typically, the Queen has bestowed new royal titles on newlyweds like her grandsons and their wives, but there was no need in the case of our Bea. Through her royal husband, she will be known as "Her Royal Highness Princess Beatrice, Mrs. Edoardo

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Queen Mary in her Fringe Tiara that Princess Beatrice wore in her wedding.

Mapelli Mozzi." Bea also inherited other titles from her husband's side of the family, becoming an Italian 'Contessa' or 'Nobile Donna' (noblewoman). Edoardo's father Count Alessandro Mapelli Mozzi, 68, descends from Italian aristocracy. He told Mail Online prior to the wedding: "Edoardo is the only male descendent taking the family into the next generation. “He is a count – his wife will be a countess automatically and any of their children

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Cover stars, of course!

will be counts or nobile donna." The Queen did give Beatrice a very special wedding honor in that she loaned her one of her own gorgeous Norman Hartnell gowns to get married in. The gown was previously worn by the Queen in the 1960s. Bea also wore her great grandmother's vintage tiara, the Queen Mary Diamond Fringe, that was also worn by Queen Elizabeth at her wedding to Prince Philip in 1947.

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Close-up of the spectacular Queen Mary Fringe Tiara, which can also be worn as a necklace.

Beatrice and Edoardo were due to marry at St James’s Chapel on May 29 but their original wedding plans had to be changed due to Covid. While Bea’s secret big day may have stunned royal fans she was always expected to have a low-key royal wedding. Speaking about the special day, a friend of the couple told the Sun: "A

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Edoardo and Beatrice, happy at last!

massive wedding was out of the question because of coronavirus. "They were obviously very keen for the Queen to come so the wedding had to happen before she goes up to Balmoral, so this was a great opportunity. "So many guests were

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Princess Beatrice, beautiful in her grandmother's dress and her great grandmother's tiara. Love her respect for tradition.

disappointed not to make the big day but understood the reason for it. "They needed to make the wedding COVID-secure and safe for the Queen so what better way than the All Saints Chapel with a reception on-site at the Royal Lodge." The ceremony took place at 11 AM, and was followed by a low-key reception. According to The Sun, the celebration was held outside the property, complying with social distancing rules, and it featured a marquee named 'The Duke of York' which was filled with sofas, a jukebox, draft beer and a dartboard. They also offered guests specialty cocktails and custom catering. The bride and groom had clearly thought of everything and even hired a bouncy castle which was no doubt enjoyed by Edoardo's four-year-old son Wolfie.

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110103787_10223232361305596_2969049136185331761_nCovid gets personal. Friends, if you suspect you might have Covid, THIS is THE textbook study in how you should respond responsibly and transparently. A close friend of mine contracted the virus and this is the message they shared with friends. "Friends, I'm announcing this as a PSA to all. After exhibiting COVID symptoms on Sat, and getting tested Sun am, I got the official result today I'm positive. I'm quarantined for 2 weeks. This after masking, scrubbing, washing freaking groceries, etc, the damn thing still managed to find me. Was I perfect in my precautions? No, not 100% , particularly in these warmer months-and neither have you been. But I've been pretty darn close. Not unlike STDs (where you are with not just with the other person, but also everyone they've been with) with Covid dangers you are socializing, not only with a fixed number of people at your table, but also with all of the fixed number of people they've socialized with over the past week. A chain is only as strong as its weakest link. I announce this only as a reminder to ALL that we are FAR from out of the woods on this thing. It's not political . And for those who think you're safer because you cross the border to Indiana, you're fooling yourself. God willing , I will be fine. Today was the first day of no symptoms, yet of course I will remain quarantined. Finally and most importantly, please continue to take the full precautions, if not for yourself, but then for the elderly and the immune-compromised around you. And should you exhibit any Covid symptoms, or have been around others who have, you have a moral obligation to act as quickly as possible and notify all appropriate people. Anything short is reckless and selfish."

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Kathy Piccone wearing Elda de la Rosa (Photo by John Reilly)

The Service Club of Chicago is busy as a bee planning its upcoming Monday, August 3, "Day on the Terrace" virtual fundraiser! A socially distanced taping was held at the Geraghty on July 20 where Tom Kehoe and his

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Show producer and event co-chair Tracey DiBuono (ZZAZZ Productions) safely supervising the taping.

team had created a colorful dream set. Co-chairs Sharyl Mackey, Jean Antoniou, Jamie Thorsen and show producer Tracey Tarantino (ZZAZZ Productions) had to limit their models this year to around 28 but that didn't stop the fabulous fashions from flowing down the runway from the city's top retailers and designers, including Elda de la Rosa, Sylwia Designs,

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Co-chairs Tracey Tarantino, Jean Antoniou, Sharyl Mackey and Jamie Thorsen. (Photo by John Reilly)

Maximilian Furs at Bloomingdale's, Neiman Marcus (Michigan Avenue), Mira Couture, Max Mara  and so many more! And I just received the Day on the Terrace's "Look Book," expertly planned by Myra Reilly (with backup support from Kevin Sullivan) and produced by Scott Bobek. IT IS GORGEOUS! If you sign up for the event, you will receive one as part of the package. It's well worth the ticket price, believe me! I loved this message from the co-chairs too, "Fashion may change with each new season, but generosity, kindness and assistance to those in need, never go out of style." There are loving tribute pages dedicated to those we've lost–John Bodine, Dorothy Whealan and Hazel Barr. Sign up here now to register and to receive your own Look Book! (Cover art by Elda de la Rosa)

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The award-winning Deer Path Inn in Lake Forest.

If you're not following Deer Path Inn (@deerpathinn) on Instagram, you are missing one of the best accounts out there! The creativity is off the charts and shows a

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Deer Path Inn GM Matt Barba in one of the hotel's adorable Instagram posts.

very talented, humble staff working in an exquisite environment (described this way on its Insta account, "From roaring fireplaces to hallways lined with wellies, the mannerly traditions of English innkeeping come brilliantly to life at Deer Path Inn.") They have lots of

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Deer Path Inn ranking #1 two years running for Best Resort Hotel in the Midwest by Travel & Leisure.

reasons to celebrate too. They were named #1 on Travel & Leisure's list of best resort hotels in the Midwest; the #2 resort in the U.S. and ranked #18 on the list of top hotels in the WORLD! Matt Barba, the hotel's genius GM, said, "In a year that has been incredibly tough

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Deer Path Inn dessert.

on the tourism industry, our team has continued to go above  and beyond, dedicating themselves to providing our guests with a comfortable and safe place to come, no matter the occasion. The win is for them." They were also featured in Forbes, "This Midwest Hotel's Hilarious Instagram Feed Is What We All Need Right Now."  The Peninsula Chicago was ranked #1 among the top hotels in Chicago. Congrats to both of these local treasures!

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9In partnership with Chicago State University, the Chicago State Foundation will host a live broadcast of the inaugural 1stGEN Scholarship Gala: Transformation presented by Greeley and Hansen on the evening of Friday, October 2, at 7 pm. Laser-focused on education and socio-economic equity, Chicago State University has created an intentional campus community that

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Gala chair, John C. Robak, CEO Greeley & Hansen.

delivers a carefully curated suite of wraparound supports designed to propel the success of first-generation and non-traditional students from diverse populations. In addition to celebrating the young student scholars who will be the beneficiaries of 1stGEN Scholarships, special highlights of the gala will include the presentation of the first-ever Cougar Servant Leadership Awards to former Illinois Senate President, and long-time CSU champion, Emil Jones, Jr., Chicago Public Schools CEO and CSU Alumna, Dr. Janice Jackson, and longtime education and Arts advocate, and Bronzeville Children's Museum founder, Peggy Montes. Gala chair will be the ever popular John C. Robak, CEO Greeley and Hansen. (To register and for more details, click here!) Honorary chairs will be Andrea and Bill Zopp and Angelique David and Jerry Richmond.

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Untitled

Citizen app keeps you aware of your surroundings.

A friend of mine suggested I get the Citizens app on my iphone so I would be aware of what's happening near me. Well, I almost wish I hadn't…there's been break-ins, a report of clown-masked passengers in a car flashing a gun, a report of a nude man armed with gun at the Greyhound bus terminal and so on and so on. I worried all day

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One of the two Columbus statues that were taken down.

yesterday after hearing about a toddler locked in a car on Oak Street. And don't even get me started about the protesters and eventual takedown of Chicago's two Christopher Columbus statues. Mayor Lightfoot said this was done in an effort to "protect public safety." Crews were seen taking down the statues in Grant Park and the city's Little Italy neighborhood and, by 6 AM, only the pedestal remained in Grant Park, where the statue stood since 1933 after being dedicated during Chicago's second World Fair. "The city of Chicago—at Mayor

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Dominic DiFrisco (front R), friend to all people.

Lightfoot’s direction—has temporarily removed the Christopher Columbus statues in Grant Park and Arrigo Park until further notice," the Mayor's office said in a statement. "This action was taken after consultation with various stakeholders. It comes in response to

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Pasquale Dominic Gianni at Italian Heritage Celebration in Arrigo Park.

demonstrations that became unsafe for both protesters and police, as well as efforts by individuals to independently pull the Grant Park statue down in an extremely dangerous manner." Personally, I don't agree with the removal of past history but would think/hope that everyone could reach a compromise. In one news report, a high ranking Black educator suggested keeping the statues and using them as "teachable moments" with plaques or stand-alone podiums with info covering the entire history of said statue, both good and bad. I also think we need to add MORE statues to

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Blurry photo of Maurice Perkins, founder Inner City Youth & Adult Foundation, speaking at Italian Heritage Celebration.

represent today's heroes, especially in communities that are under-represented. I love history, and even though it's most certainly not all good, I think, as George Santayana so eloquently said, "To forget the past is to be condemned to repeat it. " I wonder what IMG_0140 my friend, the late Dominic DiFrisco would think of the removal of the Columbus statues. He was the greatest champion, not only of Italian Americans, but of all peoples. His grandson, Pasquale Gianni (Nina Mariano's son), presided over an Italian Heritage Celebration on Sunday, July 26, in Arrigo Park. (See video here) He said, "Between the Italian American community and the African American community, there's more that unites us than divides us in the final analysis." He introduced Maurice Perkins, president of the Inner City Youth & Adult Foundation who said, "When this whole matter first began, I thought of my friend Mr. Dominic DiFrisco and that he must be spinning in his grave…I believe, at this point, that part of the Black Lives Matter movement has been co-opted by anarchists." He ended with, "We had 15 people shot at a funeral and we don't need anymore enemies."…. There must be a happy medium somewhere….right?

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Larry Wert

Larry Wert, recently profiled in Chicago magazine.

Congrats to Larry Wert, Chicago's gift to the radio and TV

Larry Wert

Larry Wert illustration by Kathryn Rathke.

industry. Larry was recently profiled by Chicago magazine in its popular "Backroom" article by John Thomas (with illustration by Kathryn Rathke). In the in-depth Q&A, Larry talks about firing Howard Stern, running the Loop, battling anxiety and so much more. Read it here!

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ChoppingBlockxCommonThreadsThe Chopping Block is hosting a virtual cooking class in collaboration with Common Threads and Top Box Foods on Wednesday, August 12 at 5:30 pm. Learn how to make Grilled Chicken and Vegetable Panzanella with The Chopping Block's owner Chef Shelley Young. Tickets are $30, and half of the proceeds will benefit Common Threads' work in cooking and nutrition education for children and families. Chicago residents can get all of their groceries for the class delivered  from Top Box Foods for $45. Grocery boxes contain enough food for the virtual class, plus at least one or two more meals! Order by Monday, Aug. 3 for delivery on Saturday, Aug. 8. Just love you CT!

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April Daley Blanco

Joffrey dancers April Daley and Miguel Blanco expecting their first child in November.

Love and congrats to much loved Joffrey Ballet star, April Daley! She is expecting her first child, a boy, in November with husband Miguel Blanco, also a popular Joffrey dancer.

And on another dance-related note, See Chicago Dance has a new executive director, Julia Mayer. Julia joins SCD

See Chicago Dance's Executive Director Julia Mayer

Congrats to See Chicago Dance's new executive director Julia Mayer.

after previously serving as Manager of Development for 3Arts, a local nonprofit that advocates for Chicago's women artists, artists of color and artists with disabilities who work in the performing, teaching and visual arts. Thanks for the heads-up Brian Smith, board president of See Chicago Dance, a nonprofit that shares in and spreads the power of dance in Chicago. (Visit website here for more info!)

Driehaus

Driehaus Summer Party 2019

Nothing, not even a limitless bank account, can protect you from being affected by Covid. Case in point, the yearly much-coveted invitation to hedge fund manager/philanthropist Richard Driehaus' annual party at his "estate on the lake" in Lake Geneva.

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With the always adorable Smothers Brothers at the Driehaus Summer Party 2019.

There are parties and then there are DRIEHAUS parties of which there is a world of difference. As a matter of fact, Richard just may well be the Hugh Hefner of our age sans Bunnies! His party last year attracted 1,100 and was his largest one yet. It celebrated his 77th birthday with entertainer Diana Ross, no less! This year, it was a bit different. Only 18 people were invited although he still kept his spectacular fireworks display which I'm sure his fellow residents were grateful for. We hope to see you back in full force next year Richard! Thanks for all you do for so many!

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Index

Recent Cancer Wellness magazine cover.

Thank you Cancer Wellness magazine for including me in your cover story feature "The Loudest Voices" (in Chicago media). I shot with well known photographer

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Caylei Vogalzang–founder Cancer Wellness magazine.

Katrina Wittkamp in my lobby and hope the pics are what they need. Very honored to be included with media stars Zoraida Sambolin, Roz Varon, LeeAnn Trotter, Tracy Butler and Whitney Reynolds. This quarterly lifestyle magazine serves those affected by cancer as well as offering up-to-the-minute nonprofit coverage, dining updates, fashion, health and wellness and so much more. Congrats and thanks to founder and editor-in-chief Caylei Vogelzang and her team for creating this much needed resource. (Check it out here!)

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Yvette Maria Dostatni beside her work  Medieval Times

Artadia Award finalist Yvette Maria Dostatni beside her work "Medieval Times."

So thrilled to see my friend/photographer Yvette Dostatni, receiving the recognition she deserves for doing what she loves!  She is one of only 5 finalists for the 2020 Artadia Awards, a national non-profit organization that awards artists with unrestricted grants followed by a lifetime of program opportunities. As arts communities continue to be deeply

Yvette Mayorga and her work  After Century Vase.

Artadia Award finalist Yvette Mayorga.

impacted by COVID-19, with many artists losing exhibition opportunities, access to their studios and having their livelihoods jeopardized, Artadia's mission to support artists is more critical than ever before. (YEAH!) Besides Yvette, the finalists are Azadeh Gholizadeh, Caroline Kent, Yvette Mayorga and Eliza Myrie. Yvette said of the honor, "To be an artist is to be a voice. To be nominated and recognized by such a highly esteemed panel of judges as one of 5 critical and risk-taking contemporary artists–all women– during such a crucial turning point in history and viewed as a voice that needs to be witnessed is an award within itself." The panel of judges included Jennifer Carty, Associate Curator of Modern & Contemporary Art, The

Azadeh Gholizadeh

Artadia Award finalist Azadeh Gholizadeh.

Smart Museum at University of Chicago; Daonne Huff , Director, Public Programs & Community Engagement, The Studio Museum in Harlem and Laura Mott, Senior Curator of Contemporary Art and Design, Cranbrook Art Museum. Artadia is unique in that it allows any artist to apply, engages nationally recognized artists and curators to review work and culminates in direct grants. Since 1999, Artadia has awarded over $5 million to more than 340 artists in Atlanta, Chicago, Houston, Los Angeles, New York, and San Francisco. This is Artadia’s eleventh Award cycle in Chicago. The application was open to all visual artists living in Cook County, IL for over two years, working in any media, and at any stage of their career. The 2020 Chicago Artadia Awards are generously supported by the LeRoy Neiman and Janet Byrne Neiman Foundation, Liberty Mutual insurance, the Artadia Board of Directors, Artadia Council Members and individual donors across the country. Congrats to ALL!

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WVON

WVON-TV!

Details are still being finalized, but look for Midway Broadcasting news/talk WVON 1690-AM to supplement its lineup with news reports from BIN: Black Information Network, the 24/7 national audio news service recently launched by iHeartMedia. “It’s a perfect complement to our Black talk format,” said

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Melody-Spann Cooper with her late dad Pervis Spann, the "all-night blues man."

Melody Spann Cooper, chair and CEO of Midway Broadcasting. “WVON is hyper-local, but what impacts Black America impacts us here in Chicago, where we represent one-third of the city’s population. Enhanced news is needed and iHeart’s timing is perfect.” Since June 30, the network has also been carried in Chicago on the HD-2 subchannel of WVAZ 102.7-FM, the iHeartMedia RB station. Congrats WVON, Melody and team!

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Safe_image.phpVoss Events’ Drive 'N Drag with RuPaul's Drag Race Stars is coming to Chicago August 7-9 at Soldier Field. The series will star RuPaul’s Drag Race fan favorites Yvie Oddly, Naomi Smalls, Jaida Essence Hall, Aquaria, Gigi Goode and many more. Attendees will get the live theatrical experience from the safety of Drag Racetheir cars (inside or on top) with concert-style stage and lighting, Jumbotron screens and sound pumped outside and through every car via FM transmitters. Multiple shows will run all weekend long from 12 pm to 11 pm. Food and beverages will be available for purchase and early shows will include Voss Events’ famous Drag Brunch with a special brunch menu. Drive ’N Drag ticket are $60 per car for two people. 100 VIP spots, closest to the stage are available for $120 per spot. Additional passengers are $20 each.

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Dance for LifeDance for Life will shift from a live event to a digital event from August 10-15. See works archived from Dance for Life performances during the past 29 years featuring Giordano Dance Chicago, Hubbard Street Dance Chicago, The Joffrey Ballet, Luna Negra Dance Theater, Muntu Dance Theatre, River North Dance Chicago, Thodos Dance Chicago and many others. The digital event will culminate with a world premiere choreographed by Hanna Brictson in response to Covid-19 with dancers from throughout the Chicago area. For all the details, click here!

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Lynn Sage Cancer Research FoundationLynn Sage Cancer Research Foundation will host a (FREE) virtual Fall Benefit on Thursday, October 22. The event will include inspiring survivor stories, updates on the latest LSCRF funded research and more. Help them fund life-changing breakthroughs in breast cancer research by reserving your virtual spot here!

 

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BLUE-LIGHT-GLASSES_Candid-Candace_SOCIAL-GRAPHICAnd, if after all of this reading, you have tired or irritated eyes, check out the "blue light" protection glasses ($40, shop and ship, and up to 4+ strength) at MyEyeDr., my go-to spot for eyecare needs. I especially love my doctor, Dr. Scott Amoruso although they're all good (and so nice) there too. To make an appt. or place an order, click here!

That's all folks. Thanks for reading and, if not a subscriber, Subscribe button image please sign up here. My list is never shared, only treasured. And, if you have any events you would like me to share, please send them my way! The more good news, the better! Stay safe, sane and sensible.

Love, as always,

Candace

Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. I'd gladly stand up next to you……:-)

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KRISTIN CHENOWETH ADDS STAR POWER TO RAVINIA FESTIVAL’S FIRST VIRTUAL LIVING ROOM LAWN PARTY

PLUS: Nobu Hotel Chicago's chic opening; Delicious Chefs' Night with Peggy and Harriet; Losing soulmates; Lake Forest Showhouse & Gardens, a sneak peek; Dr. Joaquin honored; They call it Firefly, a sweet retreat in Harbor Country; The TOP Chicago penthouse for sale; Monsters among us; Katie set to perform for Illinois Holocaust Museum's virtual Soiree; Chicago Lighthouse ready for virtual lift-off; Big Shoulders Fund set to honor Beth and Bruce; Bronzeville Art District hosts virtual tour; Pups in pup-kinis, PAWS Chicago's Virtual Beach Party; WINGS Purple Tie Ball with Melissa and Debby; This & That; Fun videos and SOOO much more!  

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Kristin Chenoweth, Ravinia Festival Living Room Virtual Lawn Party host, with her pianist Michael Orland.

Congrats to Ravinia Festival on its first virtual Living Room Lawn Party! Typically, we would all be picnicking on the beautiful lawn at Ravinia listening to some of the top musical talents in the world but, sadly, Covid changed all of that. However, kudos to Ravinia and its beautiful, talented hostess, Tony Award-winning actress Kristen Chenoweth, for reimagining the music in such a special new way! The hour long event went off without a hitch and was so entertaining. Viewers enjoyed performances by pianist Kenneth Cole, an award-winning concert performer, who opened the show with Cole Porter songs. During the event's

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Michelle DeYoung, classical vocalist.

"pre-party," we learned about Ravinia's Reach+Teach+Play programming, that serves over 85,000 community members from neighborhoods on Chicago's West Side to schools in Waukegan and the Lake County area. RTP initiatives include music education programs for 18,000 public school students; a music discovery program for over 4,500 K-3rd grade children in under resourced Chicago Public Schools; the Sistema Ravinia Orchestra Program (that provides free instruments and ongoing music instruction for kids); guest artists in classrooms; jazz scholar programs and so much more. Chenoweth appeared onscreen wearing jeans and

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Welz Kaufman, Ravinia Festival president/CEO.

a simple top in a beautiful apartment with a patio and her beloved pianist,

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Patricia Racette, award-winning soprano.

Michael Orland, by her side. She sang "Till There Was You." (from "The Music Man.") She said, "Not-for-profit Ravinia depends on ticket revenue for more than half of its annual operating budget….We need your support so Ravinia can come roaring back as soon as we can contain the global health crisis that has silenced our summer." Welz Kaufman, Ravinia's president/CEO, introduced a video showing kids in the Sistema Ravinia program, among others. Jazz legend Ramsey Lewis, a Ravinia Steans Music Institute alum, played a piece he wrote 103537229_634039314129630_3877623839346406950_ncalled "Blessings" on his piano from his home that was topped with photos of loved ones. Other musical performances were presented by Marquis Hill (a Jazz Scholars alum who played a piece on his trumpet that he learned in the Reach+Teach+Play program); Michelle DeYoung (a Ravinia Steans Institute alum) sang "Liebestod" from "Trisan und Isolde" and award-winning soprano Patricia Racette sang Edith Piaf's "Mon Dieu". Lewis and Hill shared a convo about the lack of music and arts education in the schools now

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I hope we can get back to this soon!

and how important it was for Ravinia to step up and help close this gap with its much needed programming. Chenoweth closed the show singing on a split screen with Mary Mitchell Campbell, Crystal Monaie Hall and Marisa Rosen. They sang a song titled "Reasons for Hope" written by Campbell and Hall. The lyrics, in part read: "In the blackest night, in the coldest season, we will find the light, we will find the reason to believe." Amen to that. Also, another great pivot for Ravinia, conceived by Nick Pullia (Ravinia's Director of Communications), is Ravinia TV, a recently launched 20-minute weekly variety show/webcast on Ravinia's YouTube channel and Facebook page (every Friday at 7 pm, CDT). See details here! And watch trailer below!

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Nobu Hotel Chicago ribbon cutting on July 1.

After a groundbreaking in 2016 that brought Robert De Niro, an investor/owner (and other principals to town), Nobu Hotel Chicago opened its doors on July 1, even welcoming its first guests (from Michigan). Fans and media peeps gathered in front of the hotel at 155 N. Peoria for a ribbon cutting attended by Alderman Walter Burnett Jr., Michael Chin (regional director and GM Nobu Hotel Chicago) and Deputy Mayor Samir Mayekar. Emily Cornelious (NHC director of sales and marketing) welcomed the crowd and introduced the speakers. Mayekar spoke on behalf of Mayor Lightfoot, "To say that we've been hurting as a city is an understatement. Covid 19 has been an economic earthquake and the ripple effects are still

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Nobu Restaurant, beautiful but not open yet.
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Alderman Walter Burnett Jr. and Emily Cornelious, NHC sales and marketing director.

being felt throughout the city. But, for all the damage that has been done to our economy, no industry has been hit quite as hard as hospitality and tourism. This is what makes today so special as it gives us hope that we need as a city. This investment represents a strong vote of confidence in Chicago and our future." Burnett spoke next and congratulated NHC for bringing in "hundreds of jobs." He said he looks forward to the restaurant opening (which hasn't been announced yet) so he can "kick it back with De Niro again." Following a ribbon

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Michael Chin, NHC regional director and GM, with Alderman Walter Burnett Jr. on left.

cutting, guests moved (socially distanced and masked) to the 11th floor Rooftop at Nobu. There, stunning

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Chuck enjoying a lychee martini on Rooftop at Nobu.

views of the city served as a backdrop to the stark, Japanese style decor done in dark shades with furniture to match. Tours were given of the Sake Suite and we got a chance for a sneak peek into a "regular" room. Both were stunning and would make for a helluva stay-cation. My tastes don't typically run to such a minimalist style but here, it was chic, sexy and elegant with every detail attended to, including heated floors in the bathrooms. The rooms have 11-foot ceilings with dramatic multi-paned windows looking out over the West Loop. A Japanese wooden

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It wouldn't be a party without DJ Akib!

soaking tub was a wonderful surprise in the Sake Suite, which rents for around $350. The Nobu Suite goes for

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The elegant Sake Suite.

around $800 and the Villa rents for $3500 (more or less). There is something for everyone here at every price point! The opening VIP party on the Rooftop included wines from event sponsor Fresh Vine Wine, Danica Patrick's brand new (fabulous) rosé and the always wonderful DJ Akib! Appetizers gave us a sample of what's to come when the restaurant opens and included a mix of Japanese and Peruvian flavors. Small plates will include nori tacos, black cod lettuce cups, and skewered Kushiyaki. Sushi will also be

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Delicious appetizers overseen by Chef Gregorio Stephenson.

available with the yellow tail topped with jalapeno being a standout for me. I spoke to Nobu's Corporate Chef Gregorio Stephenson (who many people will remember from his time at Coco Pazzo). He said, "We wanted to make Nobu Hotel Chicago all about the

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Pretty party people!

locals. We used local contractors, artists, architects and designers. We're coming from the outside but we want our clients to feel at home. It's their town and all we want to do is make people happy." I think you've achieved your goal!  The brand has a presence on 5 continents including its first at

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Nobu Corporate Chef Gregorio Stephenson.

Caesar's Palace in Las Vegas (which opened in 2013), Manila, Miami Beach, Malibu, London Shoreditch, Palo Alto, Los Cabos, Barcelona and Ibiza Bay. Opening this year, besides the Chicago property, will be outposts in Toronto, Sao Paulo, Atlanta, Warsaw, Riyadh and Tel Aviv. Nobu is a collaboration between De Niro, Chef Nobu Matsuhisa, and film producer/entrepreneur Meir Teper. The first Nobu restaurant opened in 1994 in New York. (For more details and reservations, click here!)

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The always fabulous Peggy Kusinski was the perfect host.

Another successful virtual fundraiser, Chef's Night, was held recently by the Center for Enriched Living (CEL). Hosted by sports commentator Peggy Kusinski on June 29, the hour long event was shown on Facebook Live and YouTube and replaced the nonprofit's normal event that would've taken place in May with over 700 guests.

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Chef Tim Minefee (Barilla chef/product development) often donates his time for CEL.

The physical event would've hosted 40 restaurants and raised over $500,000 for the organization. As Peggy said, "We've made lemonade out of lemons." The event opened with Christine Honeywell singing "Be Our Guest" (from "Beauty & the Beast"). Zach Overstreet, resident mixologist at the Koval Distillery, created a gin smash for viewers made with lemons, herbs and syrup. Harriet Levy, CEL CEO, welcomed guests and explained the work of the nonprofit

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Harriet Levy, CEL CEO, presents Peggy with flowers at the end of the show.

which provides support and programming for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. She said, "We are 100% privately funded. Our budget is $4 million. When you give, we can do more." And despite the fact that CEL's residents couldn't meet due to Covid, the org pivoted and planned its programming for virtual viewing–7 days a week from morning to night. A touching video showed residents speaking about how CEL has impacted their lives. Micah Montondol, a fireman with the Deerfield Bannockburn Fire Dept., lamented

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Zach Overstreet, Koval Distillery resident mixologist, created a gin smash for viewers.

the fact that his crew wouldn't be cooking up nachos this year at the actual event. We also heard from longtime

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Rachel Bernstein shared her inspiring story.

volunteers Ellyn and Gary Podolsky who have been volunteering for the past 13 years. They shared their recipe for a colorful veggie and fruit appetizer tray. Rachel Bernstein, a resident born with spina bifada, shared her love of the virtual programming where she learns sign language and Spanish. Her mom Amy said, "It's heartbreaking as a parent to see your child isolated like this. The virtual classes have been a lifeline… It's wonderful

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Longtime CEL supporters Ellyn and Gary Podolsky.

knowing our children can go to a program where the staff is loving, caring, devoted and creative." Chef Tim Minefee

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Joan Cannon, incoming CEL board president.

(from Barilla) prepared a penne pasta with pork tenderloin, green onion, poblano peppers, black beans, cherry tomatoes and cilantro. Dan Ripes, current board president, and Joan Cannon, incoming board president, both shared their thoughts on CEL. At the end of the show, Harriet presented Peggy with roses as they both celebrated busting their goal of $51,823 by raising $62,906! (For more info about this wonderful nonprofit, click here!) KUDOS on a job well done!

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Sherrill and John Bodine

Sherrill with her late husband John Royal Bodine.

A love match made in heaven was the happy situation between much loved author and Service Club president Sherrill Bodine and her dear John Royal Bodine. John passed away on June 28 at age 76 in her arms and, if you were lucky enough to have been around these two, you would've felt the love since it always filled any

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Always dancing to the same beat.

room they inhabited. She was his rock and he was hers. During his last days, Sherrill creatively prepared meals with themes from the many trips they had taken together. Their love was a goal everyone hoped to reach. Here is John's obit of a life well lived: John Royal Bodine, 76, passed away on Sunday June 28 in the arms of his loving wife of 56 years. He and his sister were reared in River Forest by parents, Mary Jane and Royal Bodine. John received his BA and Master’s Degree from Purdue

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Baby John and Baby Sherrill.

University and had a fellowship to work on his PHD at the University of California Riverside. John was a

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John with his "other" baby.

Renaissance Man who started his career as a Political Science professor and Crew Coach at the University of West Virginia Charleston, Columbia in New York City and Purdue University. He joined his family’s 115 year old company Bodine Electric in 1983 and moved to the Northshore. He served as President and CEO for 27 years and the last 3 years as Chairman of the Board. He John-and-Sherrill-Bodineloved traveling with friends and showing his children and grandchildren the world which he did as often as possible. A 96540151_2700875086859934_8025397003917721600_n beautiful Celebration of Life was held at the picturesque Wilmette Harbor Club where Sherrill and her family were surrounded by love and support. Besides his adored wife, John is survived by daughter Heidi Anderson; sons Alan and Michael Bodine; daughter Kate Huff; fourteen beloved grandchildren and one great -grandchild. Donations in his memory may be made to the Service Club of Chicago at https://theserviceclubofchicago.org/donate/ (RIP dear John)

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Denise Tomasello and her late husband, Don Conover.

Couples who have truly found their soul-mates are rarer than hen's teeth. Cabaret queen Denise Tomasello and her husband Don Conover was another one of those lucky couples, inseparable and completely dedicated to each other. Don lost his battle with pancreatic cancer on June 21, after 18 years of marriage. Here's part of Denise's loving tribute to him: YESTERDAY, I LOST THE LOVE OF MY LIFE. My husband Don Conover passed away from stage 4 pancreatic cancer which he’s been fighting since November 2019. (He was misdiagnosed in September which caused us to lose precious time). I am beyond devastated and heartbroken. I am at a loss for words to try to explain the pain I’m in. I don’t know how I’m going to continue my life without him. Don and I were connected in a way that was beyond romance and beyond friendship.

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Denise and Don, oh happy day!

The relationship we had was a once-in-a-lifetime. A forever connection that could only exist with our true love. Don and I met 18 years ago at Bally’s health club in Des Plaines and these five words changed my life forever, “Don’t drink all the water”,

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Always arm in arm.

when I was at the water fountain. I turned around and saw the most charismatic, handsome, masculine man smiling at me. That was the beginning of our incredible love story.  For those of you that don’t know my husband’s history… Don was born in Brooklyn and was the youngest of four brothers and a sister. He grew up in a poor Italian neighborhood on Fort Hamilton Parkway and 36th with his Italian mother and grandparents. He lived in a cold water flat with an environment that allowed him to be too hot, too cold and sometimes hungry. Sometimes they had as many as

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On the street where he lived in Brooklyn.

12 people living in a flat with only 1 bathroom, in conditions where there were rats and roaches. He learned to dress in a particular manner where needs were most important and hand me downs were welcome gifts. His

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Denise fell for Don from the very beginning.

main entertainment came from his and his siblings thoughts, ideas, actions or gifts that they all shared. Radios, television, telephones and refrigerators were not available during their early years. But that didn’t stop Don, he was always motivated. Despite his rough upbringing, Don’s ingenuity earned him three degrees, all while holding down a job and going to night school. When Don was 40 years old, he moved to Chicago with his family to be the Head of Research and Development at Stepan Chemical. They gave him a small house with a carport and a salary of $40,000, which was millions to him coming from such a poor background. Don said he walked out in the backyard and yelled, “I MADE IT! While Don was at Stepan, he invented the scent for

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Eye to eye and heart to heart.

LEMON PLEDGE without using the lemon peel. This was quite an accomplishment few could ever do. He always laughed and said the bonus from Stepan, for his invention, was a fishing rod.  A couple years later he knew he was 105009085_3390732750957818_719475036429736381_odestined for greater things, so he and two partners opened up Belle Aire Fragrances, a 1200-square-foot facility. Probably the equivalent of a two bedroom apartment. Don poured his heart and soul into every area of the business. Working tirelessly, from creating fragrances to marketing and sales. Well, that facility now consists of two buildings, 22,000-square-feet and 9400-square-feet, located across from one another in Mundelein, which employs 60-70 people. He treated every employee with respect and they admired him for all of his wonderful traits and loved working for him.  Recently the company name was changed to Belle Aire 104359252_3390732530957840_8564840845056378451_oCreations due to Don’s new inventions and patents. They are used in oral care products, which are being used in eight different countries. There are so many products of Don’s fragrances and odor modifiers that you use in your every day lives, from detergents to perfumes. It would be impossible to list. Don owned 80% of this successful company and he did it ALL ON HIS OWN. He was never left a dime, not even a cent. His hard work and motivation allowed him to achieve this huge accomplishment without any help from family. As a little boy he was heartbroken when his father left when he was just 5 years old. He didn’t see much of him and then his father passed away when he was only 15 years old. Don took care of his mother, his sister and even my mother. He loved nothing more than providing for the people he cared for. If I told him a friend was in trouble that he didn’t even know, he was the first to volunteer to send a monetary gift. He required very little for himself. In fact, I had to force him to let me buy him more

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Don and Denise at Gene & Georgetti's opening in Rosemont.

designer clothes. He always said he had enough and didn’t need anything. I guess it’s because of his upbringing in Brooklyn, he learned to be appreciative for what he had.  His two passions were boxing and gambling. In his late teens he was a boxer. Don took care of his body physically. He worked out 3 times a week 2-1/2 hours each day. Taking every vitamin you can think of. He treated his body like a temple. His other favorite thing to do was gamble. My husband was a big dice player but he was never irresponsible with his finances. Playing dice made him the happiest. When Don and I first met we use to go to Vegas four times a year. Don was so crazy about my mother that he invited her to join us on our very first trip. The two of them had a very special bond. They would gamble together, cook together, and laugh together. Don treated my mother as if she was his own. My mother adored him, he was the son she never had. Don was our hero. When I

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Don looking fit on vacation.

first met Don he told me he was my archangel, but he was all that and more. Don was one of the most handsome, powerful, charismatic, witty, funny, smartest men I had ever known. Most of all he was generous with a heart of gold.  Don and I had a powerful connection, a fairytale marriage. A relationship that people only dream of. The past 18 years Don wanted to make all my dreams come true. He never denied me anything. 10 years ago he bought me my dream home at the Carlyle. He let me turn it into an Art Deco/Hollywood Regency Palace. It was our second residence and we would spend weekends there. We had so much in common, we were both night people. We loved hanging out at Gibsons and The Drake Hotel, into the wee small hours of the morning.

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A young Don Conover.

We lived a simple life in the suburbs, we enjoyed watching television and preparing meals together. We loved each other’s company so much that we only had one television so that we would never be separate.  Don was so supportive of me and my career. My husband loved attending my concerts and his eyes would just beam at me my entire show. People would come up to me and tell me how adoring it was watching him watch me. In my business, I’m known as the Queen of Cabaret and, in his business, he is the King of Fragrance. I am still in shock and beyond devastated. I never knew how awful cancer was until I watched him try to fight this cruel and ugly disease. For those of you that don’t know, pancreatic cancer is called the silent killer. There are no symptoms until you are in stage 4 which makes it the hardest cancer to beat or live with. We never knew how horrific chemotherapy would be until my husband went through such a painful experience. He didn’t want to do chemo but he did it for me because he loved me so much. He fought and hardly complained even through the pain. 105477993_3390733370957756_8212555757607766430_oThroughout Don’s life, he had a lot of health issues and had survived quadruple open heart surgery, a new aorta 10 years ago and colon cancer 3 years ago. Then he was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in November. The doctors were so optimistic that they could prolong his life for a couple more years with treatment. Don being the strong man he is took it like a soldier. He was hopeful until the very end. He was trying a new treatment and decided he no longer wanted to experience the horrific side effects of chemotherapy. After stopping treatment, our only option was to start hospice care 2-1/2 weeks ago, in which we thought we would be able to prolong his life for another 6 months. For those of you who’ve had friends or 104462740_3390732500957843_5496017521850959391_orelatives in a hospice facility, I’m sure you had a wonderful experience. But hospice at home, is almost next to nothing. They come in two times a week for twenty minutes. I was extremely disappointed in what they had to offer and would not recommend it to anyone. It was a huge disappointment and lack of care. His passing yesterday was totally unexpected. I am still in shock! Unfortunately, his body just couldn’t take it anymore and it started to give out. I am so grateful that God allowed me to be with 104586582_3390732147624545_1530204537623533017_o Don when he took his last breath. Holding him and saying goodbye was heart wrenching. A feeling I will never forget. I am beyond devastated and hate thinking about

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RIP Don…..

facing my life without him. He was my EVERYTHING. He was my best friend, my soulmate, my protector and now he’s my guardian angel. I have the biggest hole in my heart and I can’t tell you how much I miss him already. I know he’s up in heaven with mine and his family ordering everyone around. Who knows there’s probably a dice table up there too. Rest In Peace my loving husband. You’ll be with me in my heart and soul, every second of every day. I love you more than words could ever express. God took you away from me way too soon. I’ll be looking at the moon but I’ll be seeing you. (Donations in Don's honor can be made to www.PanCan.org (for pancreatic cancer research) or The Service Club of Chicago.) RIP Don, what a grand life you led….

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Dr. Joaquin Brieva.

Huge congrats to Dr. Joaquin C. Brieva on his recent high

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Dr. Joaquin and Jennifer Brieva.

honor! On June 17, during the annual resident graduation ceremony (done on Zoom this year) Joaquin was presented with the Northwestern University Department of Dermatology Teacher of the Year award! It's a very special award since it's voted on and presented by the residents. Thanks to proud wife, Jennifer Sutton Brieva, for sharing her love's wonderful achievement!

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Shelley Johnstone Design.

You won't want to miss this year's Lake Forest Showhouse & Gardens that opens Saturday, July 11 and runs through Sunday, August 9 (benefiting the Angel Harvey Family Health Center of the Infant Welfare Society of Chicago). The historic Pullman Estate in Lake Forest has been transformed into a magical wonderland by 33 interior designers and 7 landscape designers. What I loved most was the color, color, color! No all-beige decor for this 11,000-square-foot beauty nestled on magnificent grounds with boxwood that are the genesis of our own Chicago Botanic Garden! The creativity is off the charts with painted floors, ceilings and even book jackets that all coordinate beautifully with each other. Every room, although very

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Dining room design by Paloma Contreras, event chair.

different, somehow flows seamlessly into the next. It's a big rambling 7 bedroom, 8.5 bath home with delightful nooks and crannies, now decorated to a

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Sarah Vaile & Lindsay Baker Design.

turn! Paloma Contreras, an award-winning interior decorator, tastemaker and design blogger based in Houston, is the honorary chair of the Showhouse. As mentioned in a previous blog post, many of the items in the designer rooms will be for sale with 100% of the proceeds benefiting the Infant Welfare Society of Chicago. Participating designers include: The ABL Group, Alexandra Kaehler Design, Annie Liddle Design, Cynthia McCullough Interiors, Dovetails Cabinetry, DP Home Design, Edyta & Co. Elizabeth Kreuger Design, Ilene Chase Design, James Thomas, Jen Talbot Design, Joey Leicht Design, Kelly Hurliman Design, Konstant Home, Lori Lennon & Associates,

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Ilene Chase Design.

M&M Interior Design, Mark David Design, Michele Frigon, Nora C. Marra Interiors, North Shore Nest,

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Soledad Zitzewitz Interiors.

Paloma Contreras Design (honorary event chair), Park & Oak, Relativity Textiles, Sarah Vaile Design, Savarie Interiors, Shelley Johnstone Design, Soledad Zitzewitz Interiors, Stephanie Kaslow Interiors, Studio CAK, Studio Gild, Teresa Manns Design and Wendy Labrum Interiors. Landscape designers: Bories and Shearron, Bulley and Andrews, JLC Landscaping, JMR Landscape, Mariani Landscape, Schmechtig Landscapers and Scott Byron & Co. Co-chaired by Jennifer Mower (president of the Lake Forest Infant

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The ABL Group, Dovetail Cabinetry, George Markoutsas and Jennifer Bruek, Ewa Pasek Riley.

Welfare Society of Chicago), Chrissy Davis, Sarah Georgi and Jen Horan, the bi-annual event has raised over $4.5 million for the organization. The colonial-style home, which sits on 3 IMG_1222acres, was originally designed by Frost & Granger in 1906 and completely renovated by architect Stanley Anderson in the late 1920s for investment banker William Allan Pinkerton Pullman, the grand-nephew of George M. Pullman, the developer and manufacturer of Pullman cars. W.A.P. Pullman is also the co-founder of the Chicago Botanic Garden. The home is for sale for $3.5 million (see listing here) To purchase tickets for the Showhouse, click here! (Congrats to CO-OP PR , Whitley Bouma Herbert and Susu Block, for their great work promoting this exciting event, among others!)

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IMG_0630With Covid severely limiting most people's travel plans, we have turned to a longtime love of ours, ROADTRIPS! A few weekends ago, we popped into Lake Geneva for a change of scenery and, recently, we returned to Michigan's Harbor Country for another little adventure. For the first time, we stayed at Firefly Resort (15657 Lakeshore Road, Union Pier, 269-469-0245), a group of cottages built in the 1930s as

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One of the cottages at Firefly Resort in Union Pier, Michigan.

a place for city dwellers to escape and relax. It fills the same bill today. The Firefly offers 18 one and two bedroom cottages, all restored, featuring living rooms, kitchenettes and bathrooms. Residents can enjoy outdoor grills, picnic nooks, pretty gardens and

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Tricky but beautiful path to the private beach.

VERY close beach access. A private beach is 900' away and the public beach is a bit closer. We chose the public beach because the stairs down to the private one were pretty hard to navigate (see video here). Now, I must stress that this is definitely NOT luxury lodging–it is true lakeside, cottage living–simple, basic and small. But still such a delightful getaway in a great location. The managers and guests could not have been sweeter. They all made you feel like family AND, one of the best parts, is that certain cottages are PET-FRIENDLY! We had great rag-top weather so this made the short, two day trip even better. We visited all the familiar spots, Drier's Meat Market for liver sausage, Nancy's for ice cream and hot dogs, Brewster's

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Brewster's Italian Cafe in New Buffalo.

Italian Cafe for the best pizza and Timothy's (a close spot for

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Timothy's patio (with the moving tree) in Union Pier.

great dining and a bit of whimsy). Timothy's Restaurant, 16409 Red Arrow Hwy, is very close to Firefly and had just opened, albeit cautiously, when we arrived. We sat on a huge patio with gorgeous, landscaped grounds for a backdrop. (Rooney was NOT in my bag by my side, wink, wink). As we enjoyed cocktails, Chuck turned to me and said, "I saw that tree move." I was afraid the beers had gone to his head but, as I watched, a 9-foot pine tree moved slowly 3 feet to the left. I was dumbfounded. We asked our waiter and he told us the story behind the "magical moving tree." On Dec. 31, 2016, owner/chef Timothy Sizer bought the 2.7

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Peace on a porch.

acre site on Red Arrow, including the former Wine Sellers building, a large parking lot and wooded backyard. Sizer

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Nancy's at nightfall in New Buffalo.

quickly began work on restoring the pond and large gardens including night lighting for the tall trees. He said the outdoor dining and tiki bar, along with lawn games like croquet, will be offered shortly. The previous owner came up with the concept of the "moving tree" to delight watchful diners and Timothy decided to keep the tradition alive. It was fun and captured our attention for the rest of the evening! LOL! I'm thinking about renting an RV next……:-)

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LawnphotoChicago's most magnificent penthouse, at 1500 N. Lake Shore Drive, is for sale for the first time in 45 years! The home was purchased in 1975 by Michael Wilkie, who is board chair of DGI Supply, a company manufacturing industrial products that is part of his DoALL Company founded by his family in 1927. Wilkie is the guy who

Mike and Teri Wilkie

Michael and Teri Wilkie.

famously danced with Princess Diana when she was in Chicago as guest of honor at a gala held at the Field Museum on June 5, 1996. The world press went crazy but Wilkie was not out of line as he had been in contact with the Princess and

Mike Wilkie and Princess Diana 1996

Mike Wilkie and Princess Diana, 1996.

told her he would be wearing a flower in his lapel at the gala when he invited her to dance. She was all smiles. But I digress. His penthouse is one of the most spectacular homes I've ever seen. He has decorated the 8,000-square-foot space in Old World style with antiques, malachite-encrusted objets d'art, pricey paintings, marble statuary, taxidermy P1050800 and more. It was built by famed architect Rosario Candela in 1929 and boasts 6 bedrooms, 6/12 bathrooms, a two-story living room and a 5,200-square-foot lawn with views of the lake from three sides. According to a Wall Street Journal article about the home sale, Wilkie said he's changed little about the grand space except for redoing the kitchen. Compass Real Estate has the listing for $24.5 million. Wilkie said he and wife Teresa plan on relocating to Ocean Reef Club in Key Largo, Florida to "avoid Chicago winters."

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Jeffrey Epstein

Monsters among us……I don't know if I've ever been more disgusted over anything as I have been watching the sickening saga of child molester Jeffrey Epstein. I was sorry he "committed suicide" as I would've loved to see him rot in jail. And now we have his accomplice, Ghislaine Maxwell, being tracked down, finally. If

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Ghislaine Maxwell

anything, her sins are even worse to me because she's a woman. She knows how this would affect these young girls and how it would haunt them for the rest of their lives. And she also knew the girls would be more willing with a female doing the procuring. The whole thing is diabolical. I was thrilled when armed agents arrested her and it was quite a production too, 15 vehicles with

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Ghislaine Maxwell and Prince Andrew.

spy planes and 24 armed FBI agents stormed the property, named "Tuckedaway", at 4:20 am. They were backed by NY cops, local officers and New Hampshire's gang task force. (Obviously, they weren't taking any chances.) They used bolt cutters to break the lock on the metal gate and found her inside in sweatpants and a top. I hope she gets locked away and the key thrown away and that her "black book" is revealed to all with the names of the other perverts involved. Reportedly, she has a secret stash of the pedophile's sex tapes that could implicate the world's most powerful and she will try to use them to save herself. I pray that all the victims get the justice they deserve.

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Holocaust museumI'm so excited to be hosting the Illinois Holocaust Museum & Education Center's Virtual Soiree on Wednesday, September 2 at 7 pm CDT! The event will feature a performance by The Voice finalist, Katie Kadan as well as inspiring stories from Holocaust survivors. The mission of the IHMEC is expressed in its founding principle: Remember the Past, Transform the Future. The Museum is dedicated to preserving the legacy of the Holocaust by honoring the memories of those who were lost and by teaching universal lessons that combat hatred, prejudice and indifference. The

Katie Kadan

The Voice star Katie Kadan will perform!

Museum, which is located in Skokie at 9603 Woods Drive, fulfills its mission through the exhibition, preservation and interpretation of its collections and through education programs and initiatives that foster the promotion of human rights and the elimination of genocide. The Museum, a 65,000-square-foot space, opened April 19, 2009 and is a culmination of 30 years of hard work by the local Holocaust survivor community. According to President Emeritus Sam Harris, “We dreamt of creating a place that would not only serve as a memorial to our families that perished and the millions lost, but also where young minds could learn the terrible dangers of prejudice and hatred.” Amen to that! For tickets/more info, please click here!  

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Chicago LighthouseThe Chicago Lighthouse is charging ahead with its many events, albeit virtually to support people who are blind, visually impaired, disabled and Veterans. Its annual Seeing What's Possible Gala will be held on Saturday, September 12; the fabulous Flair Fashion Show will take place on Friday, October 16 and the House & Garden Walk is scheduled for October 1 to the 10th. To learn more about these events and the nonprofit, click here.   

The Big Shoulders Fund's 2020 "Reach for the Stars" Humanitarian Awards Dinner is slated for Friday, October 23 Big shoulders reach for the stars oct. 23(it was moved from a May date). The event will be held at the Hilton Chicago and honor Beth and Bruce White. These dinners don't happen on an annual basis so each one is critical to the nonprofit's success with funds raised going towards scholarships, academic and enrichment programs, instructional equipment, school improvements, faculty support, operating grants and more. Most recently, the org set a record at its 2018 Joseph Cardinal Bernardin Humanitarian Award Dinner honoring Kimberly Querrey and Lou Simpson by raising $14.1 million. (For tickets, more info, click here!)

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Trolley.tourThe largest African American Art District in the country, the Bronzeville Art District, will offer its annual Trolley Tour virtually this year starting Friday, July 17. at 7 pm. Experience art, culture and more from six top galleries, art institutions and art studios in the historic Bronzeville Community. The galleries featured on the virtual tour include Blanc Gallery, Bronzeville Artist Lofts, Faie African Art in Bronzeville, Little Black Pearl, South Side Community Art Center and (my favorite) Gallery Guichard with the Mayor and First Lady of Bronzeville, Frances and Andre Guichard. After the July 17 kick-off, the tour will take place every 3rd Friday of the month (Aug. 21, Sept. 18, Oct. 16, Nov. 20, Dec. 18). Sign up (for FREE) here and join in the fun!

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IndexI'm so excited to be co-hosting PAWS Chicago's Red Carpet for its virtual Beach Party on Thursday, July 23 with Phillip Emigh (Tails in the City)! This fun-filled party will

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Excited to co-host PAWS Beach Party's Red Carpet with Phillip Emigh! (Bruce Haas on right.)

take place at 7 pm with surprise appearances, "arrival" coverage, a beach bod pet competition, PAW-garitas and so much more! A silent auction will include a custom illustration of your pet by

Rosemary Fanti 4

Bid on an exquisite portrait of your pet by artist Rosemary Fanti!

award-winning fashion illustrator Rosemary Fanti. Purchase a Party Pack for only $75 (with a portion of the proceeds donated back to PAWS) that includes four tacos with chips, guac, salsa, street corn and churro bites. A PAW-garita kit, $55, includes everything you need to fuel the fun for 10-12 people! As of today, PAWS has made 1,923 adoptions, with the majority of these happening through their virtual adoption process! Help PAWS continue their No-Kill work by joining us! (To register for FREE (donations encouraged, of course, click here!)

WINGS Program will host its 20th Purple Tie Ball (virtually) this 107507765_10222807060230153_8598864530005872426_n year on Saturday, October 3, to commemorate Domestic Violence Awareness Month. The event will feature great music, powerful stories from domestic violence survivors,

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WINGS Program honorees Melissa Canning and Debby Jackson.

an auction, a virtual cooking demo and more! For major sponsors, WINGS will also offer in-home dinner parties catered by a local chef. The event will honor Melissa Canning and Debby Jackson. For more info, click here!

I finally ventured out for a little retail therapy and almost wished I hadn't. I know things are different now, and may never return to the normal we knew before, but still…..I had hope in my heart that my little trip to a department store might restore my battered soul. I was never a big shopper, but I've always been a big socializer. I have friends in almost every department of every store around town and was anxious to get out and say hello (masked of course). Sadly, not to be….the stores I visited seemed to have lost their

With Cynthia Holbrook for tCW shootIMG_6655

Cynthia Holbrook, retired but never forgotten, from Neiman Marcus Michigan Avenue.

hearts (for now) and I'm sure many of them have since they probably had to lay off staff, put others on furlough or whatever they needed to do for cost-saving Cc935e433a8fbf3cbace0ae7696a6116measures. These times make it difficult for anyone to make money especially with looky loos like me who aren't buying anything. One retail loss that I really took to heart was the retirement of long-time Neiman Marcus (Michigan Avenue) personal shopper Cynthia Holbrook. I know she certainly deserves to finally get some rest, she's been in this business for a decade or more but Cynthia was so much more than her title. She was a friend to EVERYONE, a shoulder to lean on, someone to laugh with who just happened to know EVERYTHING there was to know about the fashion world. I'm happy for her but selfishly sad for me. I wish her the best and I know I will run into her somewhere soon. She will be dressed in the latest looks head-to-toe, of course, and I will probably be in sweat pants and a raggedy t-shirt.

Here's to a brighter future, hopefully soon, for us all.

Love, as always,

Candace

Candace@CandidCandace.com  

P.S. It's gonna be a long year in Kindergarten….

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