Category Archives: Television

P.S. And, of course, something to leave you with a smile!

Filed under Chicago, Culture, Current Affairs, Fashion, Food and Drink, Music, Television

July 23, 2018 · 10:24 am

FILM FESTIVAL GALA BRINGS HOLLYWOOD TO CHICAGO TO HONOR MICHAEL KUTZA

PLUS LINCOLN PARK ZOO'S 150TH ANNIVERSARY; RAVINIA GALA HOSTS AUDRA MCDONALD; MARWEN'S PAINTBRUSH BALL; SURPRISE GUEST FOR MUSEUM OF BROADCAST COMMUNICATION'S SNL PARTY; A STERLING EVENT; A MEMORIAL TRIBUTE FOR HEAVENLY HAZEL; JAMMIN' ON THE JAM WITH CHAZ; REV UP CHICAGO CELEBRATES LOCAL DESIGNERS/PERILLOS; NAVY PIER'S EXCITING NEW ADDITION; IN THE SWIM AT 900 NORTH MICHIGAN SHOPS; LINDA YU SPOTLIGHTS A FAVORITE ON "FOOD WE LOVE"; DANCE FOR LIFE GALA; NETFLIX' "VERSAILLES"; WHO ARE THE MOST STYLISH MEN IN CHICAGO?; LOSING A GOOD FRIEND; CONGRATS TO MABLE; CUTE VIDEOS AND SOOO MUCH MORE!

Michael Kutza, founder of the Chicago International Film Festival and Lifetime Achievement Award recipient

There was a galaxy of stars, fans, friends, film lovers and well wishers at this year's Chicago International Film Festival's "Summer Gala, Celebrating Michael" on July 14 at the Loews Chicago.

"Empire" star Terrence Howard with his darling wife Miranda

Presented by the governing board of Cinema Chicago, the non-profit arm of the Festival, this year's exciting event honored and celebrated the life and legacy of the founder and artistic director Michael Kutza. The film-inspired party was planned in collaboration with

Michael poses next to ginormous Eli's Cheesecake and Charlie Chaplin cut-out

Kurtis Productions (Donna La Pietra and Bill Kurtis), who always know how to bring the FUN and that they did in abundance beginning at check-in. Small replicas of

Kathleen Turner with Chuck Jordan, Jim Karas, Paul Iacono, Kip Helverson and Trey Gonzalez.

Oscar statuettes designated table seating. An array of life-size, cardboard cut-outs of iconic Hollywood stars like Charlie Chaplin, Marilyn Monroe, Audrey Hepburn and Clint Eastwood

Producer/director Andrew Davis

peppered the lobby during the reception and made for exciting photo opps. A silent auction offered everything from a home-cooked lasagna dinner prepared by the

Peter Kamberos and co-chair Maria Pappas.

honoree to exciting signed movie memorabilia. A VIP reception was held on the hotel's beautifully landscaped third floor terrace. I had no

Powerhouse producer Paula Wagner

idea this space even existed and it offered jaw-dropping views of the city's gorgeous skyline. Those enjoying the view included Kathleen Turner ("Body Heat", "Romancing the Stone'), director Andrew Davis ("The

Clever Oscar-inspired table number holders (thanks for your genius Donna LaPietra and Kurtis Productions!!)

Fugitive"), producer Paula Wagner ("Mission Impossible I-III", "Marshall"), actor Terrence Howard ("Empire", "Hustle & Flow") and his wife Miranda, director/producer Steve James ( "Hoop Dreams", "Life Itself"), independent filmmakers

Kurtis Productions' Donna LaPietra brought the fun to the event!

Joe and Kris Swanberg ("Kissing on the Mouth", "Weekends"), filmmaker/director Jack Newell ("Open

Director/producer Steve James

Tables") and Hong Kong filmmaker Scud, among many others. Over 300 guests were in attendance including Leslie Hindman, Cynthia Olson, Mamie Walton, Stanley Paul, Paul Iacono, Susan Gohl and Jonathan Grabill, Victor Skrebneski, Sara Albrecht, Tom Kehoe, Jeanne Malkin, Mr. and Mrs. Bob

With co-chairs Chaz Ebert and Maria Pappas. (Wearing By:Fashionaholic dress by Ashish, clutch by Alexander McQueen and Iradj Moini earrings–thank you Janet Mandell!)

Scarpelli, Greg Hyder, Jim Smith, Ken Norgan, Helen Melchior, Beth Silverman, Linda Johnson Rice, Desiree Rogers, Neal Zucker, Marko Iglendza, Cathy and Joey Mondelli, Christie Hefner, Todd Hatoff, Kip Helverson and Trey Gonzalez,Les Coney, Sonia Evans and Keith Pegues,

Kutza with Tom Kehoe

Nina Mariano, Donnie and Estelle Madia, Lee Blackwell and Tom Baur, Susan and John Coletti, Phil Lumpkin, Doug Van Tress, Regina Taylor, Randy Crumpton and so many more. A video opened the program and featured some of film's greatest musical compilations– "Diamonds are a Girl's Best Friend", "Singin' in the Rain," "Come to the Cabaret" and

Legendary actress and dear friend of Michael's, Kathleen Turner

"It's Another Day of Sun" from the Academy-Award winning movie "La La Land." Bill Kurtis appeared on-screen as a '40s film star with slicked back hair to welcome the crowd. The final video number, "A Little Party Never Killed Nobody"

Lots of paddle raise support!

(sung by Fergie in the film "Great Gatsby"), preceded the firing of colorful streamer cannons into the crowd. A live auction, conducted by Greg Dellinger (G-Man), featured a signed Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers guitar and a Naples, Florida, yacht cruise package (donated by the ever generous Susan Gohl). ("Empire" star Terrence Howard was the lucky winner of this package to the tune of $5600)! A massive 3-layer, film-inspired Eli's Cheesecake was presented before dinner with the honoree cutting the first slice. ABC-7's Janet

Guest Kari Keillor sang a personal song to Michael for a surprise finale.

Davies introduced the first speaker, Andrew Davis, who shared, "The role Michael has played in offering actors, film makers, writers and producers the opportunity to experience sharing their voices, visions and aspirations with the world has been a true gift." He added, " For 55 years, Michael has managed, nurtured, nourished and run the Film Festival like it was his own child." And it truly was.

Kutza receives the Lifetime Achievement Award from his friend/producer Paula Wagner.

Kathleen Turner spoke next. "We must appreciate and not underestimate what Michael Kutza has done. You better just bless him and be very thankful you have him or I'll come back." The program also featured a Q & A between co-chair Chaz Ebert and Kutza. It was a wide ranging discussion about Michael's life in film and the founding of the festival at age 22. (The first Festival in 1965 honored Bette Davis!) Chaz asked Kutza about the secret for the Festival's 55 years of success. He said, "It's the energy of seeing something

Squad Goals Achieved! With Tyler and Kari Keillor, Kip Helverson, Trey Gonzalez, Jim Karas, Paul Iacono and Chuck Jordan.

that no one's ever seen before that keeps the spark alive for me." A video compilation included accolades from Martin Scorsese, Tom Cruise, Jacqueline Bisset, Geraldine Chaplin, Michael Douglas, Sophia Loren, Helen Mirren and Taylor Hackford, Leslie and Robert Zemeckis, Oliver Stone and Liv Ullmann among many others. Producer Paula Wagner presented the Lifetime Achievement Award to Kutza calling the Festival "one of the greatest

Michael cuts the first slice of the Eli's Cheesecake–all edible!

festivals in the world." During her congratulatory remarks, she told Kutza, "you're not retiring, you're evolving." The inscription on the golden statue read, "For pioneering a world class event that celebrates the art of cinema and for making an indelible impact on the cultural landscape of Chicago." The evening concluded with a surprise performance by guest Kari Keillor who sang, "You're Gonna Hear From Me", from the 1965 film "Inside Daisy Clover". Kutza said the theme of his upcoming autobiography, "Who's Looking" due out in late 2019, was inspired by this song. (Congrats to the CIFF team/rock stars Vivien Teng, Mimi Plauche, Jackie O'Connor, Lauren Ponto and Sam Flancher on a great night!) The Chicago International Film Festival begins on October 10 and runs through the 21st. (For info, please click here). (Timothy M. Schmidt Photography)

Biff Bowman (LP Zoo board chair), Krista Coan (Zoo Ball 2018 co-chair), Caroline Huebner (WB president), Allyson Pooley (Zoo Ball 2018 co-chair), Kevin Bell (LP Zoo president/CEO)

The Women’s Board of Lincoln Park Zoo hosted its annual Zoo Ball, this year raising more than $1.2 million to benefit this beloved institution. Themed “Zoobilee," the event honored Lincoln Park Zoo’s 150-year-long commitment to connecting people

Morris Gearring, Wendy Krimins, Cynthia Holbrook and Christopher Beski

with nature. More than 800 guests joined the Women’s Board in celebrating the zoo’s incredible milestone with an enchanting night of dinner, drinks and dancing. After a spectacular cocktail reception under the stars, complimented seamlessly by stunning décor from Erin McDonald Design, Zoo Ball guests were welcomed to enjoy delicious

Danielle Russell and Kevin Bell (LP Zoo pres/CEO)

seasonal fare provided by Jewell Events Catering. Jugglers, contortionists and stilt-walkers from Actors Gymnasium added to the festive atmosphere. Following remarks from the Women’s Board president, Caroline Huebner, guests took to the dance floor where they enjoyed the sophisticated sound of the

Bonnie Kaufman (Zoo Ball 2019 co-chair), Michael Kaufman

award-winning Ken Arlen Evolution Orchestra. Over the past 41 years, the exceptionally successful evening has enabled the Women’s Board to provide major support to Lincoln Park Zoo. Funds raised at Zoo Ball in 2018 helped fund the soon-to-be-unveiled Searle Visitor Center, for which the Women’s Board raised $3 million. Since its inception in 1976, the Women’s Board has contributed more than $25

Stefan and Martha Billen

million to a wide range of capital projects and habitats. “We are honored to mark the zoo’s incredible 150-year milestone with support from the amazing advocates and friends of Lincoln Park Zoo,” said Huebner. “The Women’s Board proudly serves to preserve the zoo’s irreplaceable role in the city of Chicago while building for its future, the

Exquisite decor by Erin McDonald Design

animals it protects and the community it serves. We are thankful to all that made this night so very special.” Prominent guests at the ball included Lincoln Park Zoo president/CEO Kevin Bell; Chairman of the Lincoln Park Zoo Board of Trustees Biff Bowman; Board of Trustees Civic Chair Barbara Malott Kizziah; Charlie and Caroline Huebner; Laura and George Bilicic; Mamie and Greg Case; and Mayari Pritzker. The event was expertly co-chaired by Krista Coan and Allyson Pooley. (Photos by Robert Carl, John Reilly and Alain Milott)

Ravinia Festival president/CEO Welz Kaufman and WB chairman Judy Castellini

The Ravinia Women’s Board hosted its annual gala with more than 600 guests in attendance on July 15. The elegant crowd helped raise nearly $1 million for the not-for-profit Ravinia and its REACH*TEACH*PLAY education programs that reach 85,000 people each year. These programs include starting and maintaining elementary

6 time Tony Award winner Audra McDonald with conductor Andy Einhorn

school orchestras in budget-strapped Chicago Public Schools and Lake County schools, with Ravinia supplying teachers, instruments and all other needs. A pre-gala performance featured singer/actress Audra McDonald and the Chicago Symphony Orchestra presenting vocal classics by Gershwin, Sondheim, Loesser, and more, and was conducted by Andy Einhorn in his debut with

Ravinia's Nick Pullia with WGN's Dina Bair

both the CSO and Ravinia. McDonald has previously performed in concert at Ravinia and co-starred in the festival’s lauded Sondheim at 75 series in Passion, Anyone Can Whistle and Sunday in the Park with

Gala fun with Shelita Shaw, Jennifer Schulze, Dina Bair and Cheryl Burton

George. Following the performance, guests enjoyed cocktails and dined to the sounds of alumni of Ravinia’s Jazz Scholars program. The annual gala is the only performance fundraiser benefiting the not-for-profit festival and its mission, especially its efforts to

Glam Gala Guests

bring music back into schools through its REACH*TEACH*PLAY education

With Chicago Sun-Times' Jennifer Schulze and Edwin Eisendrath

programs. This year's benefit was overseen by a Women’s Board committee headed by gala co-chairs Judy Konen and Michele Ihlanfeldt, as well as Women’s Board chairman Judy Castellini. The cocktail reception sponsor was BMO Harris Bank, and the dinner sponsor was Allstate Insurance Company. Exquisite decor designed by FROST Chicago was inspired by a forest with cool earth tones, luscious greenery and crystal chandeliers that changed colors in the tent throughout the evening. The concert was performed in memory of Keene H. Addington II. (Photos by Patrick Gipson)

Marwen founder and chairman emeritus Steven P. Berkowitz, Antonio Contro and Dan Epstein

Marwen's 2018 Paintbrush Ball raised $740,000 to benefit the non-profit's free visual arts programming and college and career planning for Chicago youth from under-resourced communities and schools. Held

Seth Limmer, Marwen trustee and event co-chair Molly Limmer Morse, Bryan Traubert, Penny Pritzker, Marwen trustee Tom Shapiro.

at Revel Fulton Market, the event celebrated outgoing president/CEO Antonia Contro and her 25 years of leadership. Deputy director Akilah Halley emceed the evening which featured remarks and special tributes to Antonia by Chairman Emeritus Steven Berkowitz and Marwen trustees and event co-chairs Molly Morse

Mayor Emanuel and Marwen's former pres/CEO Antonia Contro

Limmer (founder of 2050 Art Services) and Rich Stoddart (president/CEO at InnerWorkings). Additional notable guests included Amy and Andy Bluhm, Penny Pritzker and Bryan Traubert, Maria Pinto, Lukas Walton and Samantha Baiz Walton, Dan and Julie Wheeler, Michael Fassnacht (president/CEO of FCB Chicago), Andrew Swinand (CEO of Leo Burnett North America), Britt Nolan (CEO Leo Burnett North America) and

Marwen trustee Carmita Semaan and Marwen Deputy Director Akilah Halley

Steve Koch (former Deputy Mayor of Chicago). A proclamation was presented by Mayor Rahm Emanuel officially declaring June 1, 2018 as Marwen Day in Chicago in Honor of Antonio Contro. It recognizes her 25-year contribution to young people and their families along with Marwen's continued positive impact on creative youth development in Chicago and throughout the country. Contro also announced a $1 million planned gift from long-time supporter Virginia James to launch a new Legacy Fund for Marwen — a critical step towards ensuring the organization's perpetuity and future. (Photos by Timmy Samuel, Starbelly Studios)

The Museum of Broadcast Communications is recognizing the longstanding love affair that Chicago has had with Saturday Night Live over the last 43 seasons. On Friday, August 10th, Lorne Michaels, SNL's creator and executive producer, will attend the fundraising event, "Chicago Celebrates Saturday Night Live," at the MBC. Guests will

13 time Emmy Award winner Lorne Michaels with Tina Fey and writer Dennis McNicholas

enjoy special access to the museum’s visiting exhibition, Saturday Night Live: The Experience" and cocktails and hors d’oeuvres with proceeds benefiting the museum, a non-profit organization dedicated to the history of broadcasting and home of the National Radio Hall of Fame. (For tickets/more info, click HERE)! Some of the legendary names who have graced the SNL stage

Justin Timberlake (4th from L) celebrates his fifth time as host with (from L) Dan Aykroyd, Tom Hanks, Candice Bergen, Alec Baldwin, Steve Martin, Chevy Chase and Martin Short in an iconic 2013 sketch.

were discovered in Chicago at Second City and iO Theater by Michaels and his producers–John Belushi, Bill Murray, Dan Ackroyd, Tina Fey, Chris Farley, Amy Poehler, Mike Myers, Gilda Radner, Seth Meyers and so many more!. Saturday Night Live: The Experience is a 12,000 square-foot exhibition created to chronicle the history of NBC’s

One of the sets from "Saturday Night Live-the Experience" at the Museum of Broadcast Communications

iconic franchise, while taking visitors through its famously hectic weekly schedule. Ten immersive galleries bring visitors into the Michaels’ office, the writers room, the control room and more. Over 500 authentic artifacts, including iconic costumes, original sets, props and scripts are featured. The experience concludes with a full-scale recreation of SNL's longtime home in New York, Studio 8H in Rockefeller Center.

The 14^th annual “A Sterling Event” will be held on Saturday, September 29, at the Hyatt Regency

Michah Materre and Dr. Sandy Goldberg

McCormick Place (Regency Ballroom), 2323 S. Martin Luther King Drive. The elegant black-tie gala will benefit the programs of A Silver Lining Foundation, including its "Buy A Mom A Mammogram" program which funds the entire spectrum of breast health testing (mammograms through biopsy) for uninsured and under-insured individuals. Event proceeds will provide potentially lifesaving cost-free testing to those who would otherwise fall through the cracks. The gala will include live and silent auctions as well as a cocktail reception, dinner, live entertainment and dancing. WGN's Micah Materre, will once again emcee the event. For tickets, $300, and more info, click here or call 312.345.1322!

Francee Harrington, William Brodsky, Robert Rivkin, Eric Smith, Marilynn Gardner and Robert Sullivan

Navy Pier is bursting at the seams with excitement! On June 26, another key milestone was celebrated in the Pier's ongoing transformation as it debuted the new Fifth Third Bank Family Pavilion. The sold-out grand opening event highlighted the Pier’s Chicago-

Brian Murphy, Donna La Pietra, Bill Kurtis and David Hiller

centric experiences in dining, retail, dining and entertainment and included dynamic performances by Chicago Children’s Theater, The Actor’s Gymnasium and The Happiness Club. The event welcomed about 850 guests and raised more than $460,000 for Navy Pier’s free public

Manolis Alpogianis, Sara and Tim Miller

programming as part of the Pier’s commitment to offer accessible and unique experiences designed to inspire, educate and connect communities and guests across the city and globe. A key element of the Pier’s ongoing Centennial Vision redevelopment, the Fifth

Dena and Jeff Perry

Third Bank Family Pavilion stretches more than 200,000 square feet from the west main entrance of the Pier to WBEZ, and is a hub of more than 50 Chicago-centric experiences that showcase and represent the city’s best offerings in dining, entertainment, retail and more. Click here for a full listing of establishments within the Fifth Third Bank Family Pavilion. (Heidi Zeiger Photography)

Heavenly Hazel's stylish and touching memorial tribute at the Peninsula

The Peninsula Chicago and the Service Club of Chicago hosted a memorial tribute to the late, great Hazel Barr on July 17. Over 100 friends and admirers gathered in the Grand Ballroom to share "Hazel Stories & Memories." I think she would've loved this elegant affair that featured a 10-foot-tall portrait of her in a rococo gilded frame from a "Day on the

Warren Barr, her loving husband of 67 years.

Terrace" runway show, an event she co-founded. A ginormous floral and feather arrangement, courtesy of Kehoe Designs, was created in one of her favorite colors, red! Her husband of 67 years, Warren Barr, spoke movingly and eloquently about the "love of his life" and thanked the crowd for its support and

Forever photogenic, Hazel Barr, at a past Day on the Terrace Fashion Show, an event she co-created.

attendance. Jean Antoniou, this year's "Day on the Terrace" co-chair, shared her memories of Hazel as did Greg Hyder, the Peninsula's catering director. He called her "tough but fair" and recounted her desire to host the first "Day on the Terrace" event in the then soon-to-be-opened Peninsula, where it's been held ever since. It was a wonderful night for remembering and honoring a woman who changed the philanthropic landscape of Chicago.

With Chaz Ebert and Jam host Jordan Cornette

Thanks to WCIU's "The Jam" for hosting Chaz Ebert and me on a recent show to chat about the Chicago International Film Festival's Summer Gala (featured above). Host Jordan Cornette, a former star Notre Dame basketball player, was fabulous (and patient!)…As you can imagine, between the two of us, Chaz and I had a lot to say! LOL! (To see video, click here!)

A reminder! Don't forget to grab your tickets for the hot "Rev Up Chicago" fashion show presented by the Apparel Industry Board! The evening will honor Pat and Joe Perillo and feature a runway show with a dozen local designers, including Armigami, Brandon Blackshear, Caroline Rose, Heidi Hess, Lauren Lein Ltd., M2057, Mira Couture, Model Atelier, Rebellion, Ricorso and Varyform! (Fab invitation portrait by Rosemary Fanti) For tickets/more info, click HERE!

Paloma and Senaca Chaplin (daughters of Kendra Chaplin, Chicago Woman Magazine)

A magical pop-up inspired by the sea! Now through July 30, don't miss the 900 North Michigan Shops' marine-inspired experience in partnership with Shedd Aquarium, Chicago Public Library and the ocean conservation group, Blue Ring. It's an underwater-

Pam Rose (Swirlz Cupcakes)

inspired oasis of enchantment and engagement for mermaids and sailors of any age! For the first time ever, visitors can tuck into the iconic shopping center to do everything from visiting with an ethereal mermaid to learning about ocean conservation from a deep sea diver! Children can even commit to caring about the ocean by becoming an "adopted child of the sea" during a special ceremony. Check it out daily from noon to 4 pm on the 2nd and 5th levels at 900 N. Michigan Avenue (The 900 Shops)!

Tufano's Joey DiBuono with Linda Yu ("Food We Love")

I just love reading Linda Yu's "Food We Love" column in the Chicago Sun-Times! She always features the most interesting people and recipes and, this week, she hit upon one of our favorite restaurants (and people)–Tufano's, 1073 W. Vernon Park Place, and Joey DiBuono, owner of this much loved family restaurant! To read the article and discover his secret recipe for lemon chicken, click here!

The 27th "Dance for Life" returns to the Auditorium Theatre on Saturday, August 18 featuring 7 dance companies–Giordano Dance Chicago, Hubbard Street Dance Chicago, The

Honoree Nan Giordano, Giordano Dance Chicago

Joffrey Ballet, Hanna Brictson and Dancers, Cerqua Rivera Dance Theatre, Chicago Dance Crash and Nomi Dance Company! The concert will open with a work choreographed by Randy Duncan that honors Hubbard Street Dance Chicago's founding artistic director Lou Conte and Giordano Dance Chicago's artistic director Nan Giordano! For tickets/more info, click here!

The Costume Council of the Chicago History Museum will celebrate the most stylish men in Chicago at the 3rd annual Chicago Men's Fashion Awards, co-chaired by John Rogers and Maggie Morgan, on Wednesday, September 12. The art-deco inspired evening, taking place at Room & Board, 55 E. Ohio, will feature a fashion show presented in collaboration with Saks Fifth Avenue and Room & Board. (For tix/more info, click here!)

Paul and Angela Murges

Another friend has left us all too soon. Angela Murges passed away surrounded by her family on July 5. She was a long-time and much loved friend and, during the 70s and 80s, there was no stone left unturned in our quest for fun with her husband Paulie and her dearest friend Kathy O'Malley Piccone. She loved to dance

Chuck with Angela and Paul Murges and Jerry Ranelli (2nd from R)

and, for many years, toured the country as a professional Latin jazz dancer. She worked as a manager at Ranalli's in Lincoln Park for more than 20 years. During a beautiful and emotional ceremony at St. Giles Catholic Church, her only daughter Giana Pisellini shared a touching eulogy. "My mother Angela was a beautiful woman and her beauty radiated from her core, her essence, her soul. She saw the good in everyone and strove to be positive and bring out the best in others." Amen to this Giana….she was truly an inspiration for all who knew her. RIP Ang….you'll dance circles around those angels.

Chuck and I just finished binge-watching "Versailles" on Netflix. It was so well done, you felt like you were there. The visuals, the actors and the stories are so spot-on, they draw you in like a spider's web–we just can't wait for Season 3! If you haven't seen it, check out this trailer and tune in:

Mable Buckner-Payton to be honored by Streeterville Chamber of Commerce

Congrats to Mable Buckner-Payton, president/CEO of the Streeterville Chamber of Commerce. She will be honored by the Board of Directors and aldermen at a ceremony at CHEZ, 247 E. Ontario, on Wednesday, September 26. Love and congrats Mable! You so deserve this!

I hope you're all enjoying this beautiful summer! It always reminds us why we live and love here, right? May your grills stay hot and your coolers chilled!

Love, as always,

Candace

Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. And, of course, something to leave you with a smile and a message!

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

July 6, 2018 · 9:58 am

EVERSIGHT ILLINOIS GIFT OF SIGHT GALA: LET’S FLAMINGLE!

PLUS Z BAR'S GRAND OPENING; CHICAGO SHAKESPEARE THEATER GALA; ETHAN HAWKE HONORED BY GSFC; TOM'S PRIDE TEA DANCE; A SPARK! FOR SHIRLEY RYAN ABILITY LAB; MISSING HEAVENLY HAZEL; GILDA'S CLUB CHICAGO HONORS ANN LURIE; ONE MILLION DEGREES FOOD & WINE GALA; WEIGEL BROADCASTING'S NEW "COLLECTOR'S CALL"; BARKAPALOOZA; ONE GOOD EGG AND THE RANCICS AT PIXAR PREMIERE; ELI'S CELEBRATES TRIBUNE'S BIG MOVE; GREEN TIE BALL KICK-OFF PARTY; SAYING GOODBYE TO KATHY BROCK; REV UP! CHICAGO 2018; THEO EPSTEIN'S HOT STOVE COOL MUSIC CHICAGO FEST; MUSIC INSTITUTE ANNIVERSARY GALA; A DARLING VIDEO AND SO MUCH MORE!

Eversight Illinois Visionary Award recipients Marco Foster and Dr. Elmer Tu.

The 20th annual Gift of Sight Gala was held at the Peninsula on June 28. The event raised funds for Eversight Illinois, an organization that for 71 years has been restoring sight for those in need by providing tissue for transplantation and research, working to

Eversight ED Diane Hollingsworth and Liliana Vujic present Dr. Elmer Tu with his award.

develop eye banks around the world and discovering new therapies and treatments. The 2018 Visionary Awards were presented to local philanthropist, man-about-town Marco Foster and Dr.

Gala committee

Elmer Tu, who specializes in infectious diseases of the cornea. Dr. Tu has performed over 1700 transplant surgeries including one on the evening's guest of honor, 12 year-old Liliana Vujic. Liliana was

Dr. John Geevarghese, Diane Vaccaro, event co-chair Michael Caputo, Beth Spadafore and Sofia Damianos

born with a rare congenital eye defect that has required multiple surgeries but, after successful corneal transplant surgery performed by Dr. Tu, she is now a

Jean Antoniou and Greg Hyder

vibrant, happy 12 year old who enjoys starring in musicals, singing in talent shows and reading her beloved books. Marco Foster, for the past 8 years, has been the host/founder and head cheerleader for an event for One Hope United, the White Party. As an adopted child, he

Diane and David Hollingsworth with ZZAZZ Production's Flower Lady, Shannon Lersch.

recognized the need to support this non-profit whose mission is to increase opportunities for children and their families. In 2009, he was diagnosed with a brain tumor and, once again, he answered the

Jonathan Grabill and Susan Gohl.

call by raising awareness and funds for the Brain Injury Association, an organization he's been involved with for the past 6 years. He supports many other charities, even dressing as a super-hero to visit hospitalized children for the Super Hero Collective and Holiday Heroes. As you can

Tony Abruscato (2nd from L) and Michael Kutza (2nd from R) and friends.

imagine, it was quite an inspiring night but one that was also filled with fun and festivities from beginning to end. Guests entering the venue might have been reminded of the legendary Beverly Hills

Nina Mariano, Susanna Homan and Liza Sweitzer.

Hotel since the decor was inspired by its iconic green and white stripes, flamingoes and colors of the summer. Envisioned by my darling co-chair, Michael Caputo, and Kehoe Designs' Phil Cooper, the decor brought the gala to life! A pink

Susan Regenstein and Sylvia Muller

"flamingle" bar, presented by MyEyeDr., was decked out with topiary-filled urns filled with plastic, blinged out pink flamingoes (hand decorated by Michael!). The bar was tented with green and white

Drs. Randy Epstein and Linda Katz

striped fabric and filled with hanging, brightly colored balloons from Tamar Productions. The ballroom was a riot of color, again with boldly colored balloons hanging from the ceiling and the walls splashed with matching colors. When I first saw it, I felt like Alice must've felt as she entered Wonderland.

With Eversight board members Ed Hunter and Frank Saporito and co-chair Michael Caputo.

ZZAZZ Productions donated a beautiful flower lady, portrayed glamorously by model Shannon Lersch. Her

Mary Ann Rose and Heinz Kern

outfit was beyond imagining. You have to see the photo to believe it! The weather knew we needed it to cooperate and it did. It was a perfect summer night as guests mingled on the terrace, in the hallway outside the ballroom and inside as well. We had a killer silent auction with over 100 packages–including (thanks to the Peninsula's Maria Zec) trips to Shanghai, Hong Kong, New York, Beverly Hills, Las Vegas, Carmel and more! A photo booth allowed guests the opportunity to take home lasting

John Robak and Bethany Florek

memories and the music by DJ Apollo XO reminded me of my glory days at Studio 54, albeit with more

Guest of honor Liliana Vujic (2nd from L) with honoree Dr. Elmer Tu (R) and her family.

current beats! Lol! This event was founded by the late (much loved) Beverly Blettner 20 years ago and, happily, her dedication lives on. Last year, more than 7,000 individuals from around the globe received the gift of sight with the help of Eversight. Thanks to all who attended, our past honorees and especially to our sponsors! And please forgive me if I forget someone here–The

Sari Kovitz and Lauren Pappas

Peninsula Chicago, media sponsor Chicago Magazine, Gift of Hope (Organ & Tissue Donor Network), Illinois Eye and Ear Infirmary, Chicago Blower Corporation (love you Susan Gohl!), MyEyeDr., Tamar Productions, ZZAZZ Productions, Chicago Cornea Consultants and so many more! Also, a special shout-out/thanks to Eversight Illinois executive director Diane Hollingsworth and its PR

Honoree Dr. Elmer and Mrs. Tu and family.

gurus Steve Schapiro and Nikita Strange, the Peninsula's Greg Hyder, Breanna Jurs, Carrie Roitstein, Mary Ann Rose, Sally Schwartz and Reid Brody, Dr. Steve Stryker and Andrea Schwartz, Walter and Shirley Massey, Sue Downes, Lois Eisen, Dr. Charles and Anne Bouchard, Hubbard Inn, Dr. and Mrs. Lindenauer, AMLI River North (where we held a killer kick-off party!), TOAST Vodka, Thomas and Karren Wcisel and Mildred Zarzik. (Photos by Mila Samokhina)

Great atmosphere for the Z Bar opening!

And on another special night at the Peninsula Chicago, a brand new space opened and boy, is it something special! The Z Bar opened big last week to

Outstanding view from Z Bar.

rave reviews! It's not only new, but it was created from scratch and can be reached by elevator across from the previous bar on the lobby level that's now closed. Conceived by international designer Yabu Pushelberg, the bar is stylish and oh-so chic. Composed of multiple spaces, each has its own personality. The name

Z Bar opening

Z Bar is inspired by Maria Zec, the Peninsula's first ever female manager. The lounge even pays a darling homage to her pug dog with inspirations scattered throughout. On the nights set aside for its

With Amy Carr, Kathy Piccone, Sherry Holson and Sheryl Dyer.

grand opening, the space was in hyper-party mode with a stylish combo brought in from Paris, men and women prowling through the space in animal masks and tasty food offerings from the cuisines of Asia, Europe and the Americas created by Chef Toni Robertson. A private salon will offer a sanctuary type space for the many celebrities who call this hotel home when they're in town. Cocktails are works of art and feature a Manhattan Royale, starring rare Elijah Craig 18 year-old Bourbon with truffle and saffron bitters. You get the picture. And the views from the 4th floor onto Michigan Avenue are definitely Insta-worthy! A hotspot not to be missed!

RIP Heavenly Hazel (Portrait by Rosemary Fanti)

Sad, sad news….A force to be reckoned with right up to the very end–Hazel Barr passed away peacefully in her sleep on June 28, surrounded by those she loved. She was a long and loyal champion of the Service Club of Chicago, one of the oldest charitable organizations in the city. Her creativity and passion surrounding her Day on

The Perfect Couple- Warren and Hazel

the Terrace Fashion Show is legendary. Co-founded 19 years ago as the Day in the Country, Hazel grew this popular event to be one of the biggest and best in the city. It's a yearly sellout every July at the Peninsula and this year will be no different. Last year, the SC honored Hazel at the Day on the Terrace. I

Hazel Barr with her two beloved grandsons, Justin and Alexander Smith

will never forget the sight of her–always elegant–but, on this particular day, she was absolutely radiant. Her finale strut down the runway brought tears from everyone in the room as she was escorted by her two beloved

Myra and The Hazel

grandsons, Justin and Alexander Smith, blowing kisses and taking her final bow as chair of this event. She was instrumental in bringing me, along with a gazillion other wide-eyed

Hazel and Stanley Paul

women, into the Service Club fold. There, she molded us and taught us what philanthropy is all about. In large part due to her past efforts, the SC awarded a record-breaking number of grants this year to deserving nonprofits. I was proud and humbled to be under her glamorous wings, as were all her friends. She wasn't an easy woman by a long shot, but she knew what was best and never wanted to settle for anything less than what her

With Hazel, Brooke Ricketts and Sheryl Dyer

unerring vision dictated. I admired her for that, along with many of her other fine traits. She was tenacious, kind, giving, forceful, determined,

With Hazel Barr and Abra Wilkin

loving to her friends, sentimental and always, always, always positive. I don't think I ever saw her without a smile on that beautiful face. Beyond the Service Club, her reach stretched far into the nonprofit world and made Chicago a much better place to live. In the end, she preferred to be alone with those nearest and dearest. She was truly one of a kind, the best kind in my book, and the world will be a less joyful place without her in it. RIP Heavenly Hazel. Those angels will learn a lot from you. As Kevin Sullivan so aptly put it, I can't wait to see what "Day on the Cloud" looks like!

GALA 2018 Spirit of Shakespeare Artistic Honoree John Lithgow (second from left) w/ CST artistic director Barbara Gaines, creative producer Rick Boynton and executive director Criss Henderson.

Chicago Shakespeare Theater celebrated GALA 2018 on June 8 raising $1.6 million for the Chicago Shakespeare in Classrooms and Communities initiatives—which include the Tony Award-winning

Jim Pierpont, Francia Harrington, and Vern Broders

Theater’s nationally recognized education programs and free citywide Chicago Shakespeare in the Parks tour. During the event, Chicago Shakespeare presented the Spirit of Shakespeare Awards, honoring those who embody Shakespeare’s spirit through community engagement

UK Deputy Consul General Martin Whalley (2nd from L) and Rafael Veloso (2nd from R) pose w/ costumed characters, portrayed by actors Caitlan Taylor, Jennifer Latimore and Jeri Marshall.

and artistic leadership. This year’s Civic Honorees, Marilynn and Carl Thoma, were instrumental in the

The festive Victorian garden-themed décor for GALA 2018 featured lush floral arrangements from Pollen and striking visuals from MDR Creative.

founding of the Theater and have been a driving force behind its evolution and growth. As civic leaders and philanthropists, their generosity has fostered myriad cultural organizations and artists across the country. The 2018 Spirit of Shakespeare Artistic Honoree John Lithgow was recognized for his extensive career as a Tony, Emmy, and Golden Globe Award-winning actor. His celebrated career includes roles as varied as Sir Winston

Verett Mims and Amrit Singh

Churchill on the hit Netflix series, The Crown, Malvolio in Twelfth Night at the Royal Shakespeare Company, Arthur Mitchell in the crime drama mystery series Dexter, and Dick Solomon in the extraterrestrial

Paul and Lisa Oswald with Karmen and Brendan Keane

sitcom 3rd Rock from the Sun. Lithgow declared of the honor, "This not only gives me a chance to pay tribute to Chicago Shakespeare Theater, but also Chicago theater, period." In the Courtyard Lobby, artists in

Gala overview photo by Johnny Knight.

lavish costumes mingled and posed for photos with guests. Following a cocktail reception and seated dinner, 500 attendees from Chicago’s civic and cultural community enjoyed a one-

Glenn and Gayle Tilles, a Chicago Shakespeare Board Member, with daughter Rebecca Tilles.

night-only performance in The Yard at Chicago Shakespeare, featuring Tony and Grammy Award-winner Heather Headley and The Voice all-star Chris Mann. In the star-studded concert, audiences were treated to selections including ―"I Will Always Love You" performed by Headley, and duet performances of "Written in the Stars" from Aida and "For Good" from Wicked. To cap the night, guests pledged direct support to Chicago Shakespeare’s education and community initiatives during a successful paddle raise. (Photos by J. Lauryn Photography and Jimmy Knight Photo)

GSFC Renaissance Award recipient Ethan Hawke

Paying tribute to an artist who truly does it all, the Gene Siskel Film Center of the School of the Art Institute honored Academy Award, Golden Globe, SAG and Tony award-nominee Ethan Hawke on June 7 at the Ritz-Carlton

Richard and Ellen Sandor with honoree Ethan Hawke

Chicago. The evening paid homage to the actor's many accomplishments and provided guests with an opportunity to hear an intimate conversation that provided insights into his creative process and influences, favorite roles and his upcoming film "Blaze", which was co-written, produced and directed by Hawke. A retrospective of his film clips

Marlene Iglitzen and her family with Ethan Hawke

accompanied the conversation. The evening culminated with the presentation of the Gene Siskel Film Center Renaissance Award to Hawke by SAIC

Co-chair Eda Davidman with honoree Ethan Hawke and her cute hubby

president Elissa Tenny and GSFC Advisory Board Chair Ellen Sandor. The benefit was co-chaired by GSFC supporters and Advisory Board members Eda Davidman and Melissa Sage Fadim with proceeds supported the Center's curated film programming as well as lecture series and discussions with visiting scholars and filmmakers. Congrats to ALL! (Photos by Mila Samokhina)

MIC Gala Dushkin Award winner Pinchas Zukerman with Joan Harris

The Music Institute of Chicago, one of the nation’s oldest, largest, and most distinguished community music schools, welcomed 300 guests to its 2018, Anniversary Gala on May 21 at the Fairmont Hotel

Gala performers Joseph Lovette Elementary School students

Chicago. Co-chaired by Renée and Lester Crown, David F. Heroy, Cathy and Bill Osborn and Nancy and E. Scott Santi, the event raised more than $715,000 and included a cocktail reception, followed by an elegant dinner and awards presentation. Musical performances took place throughout the evening, representing every area of the

MIC Gala honorary co-chair Alexandra Nichols, Cathy Busch and Dustin O'Regan

Music Institute. Highlights included young musicians

Joan Harris, 2018 Dushkin Award winner Pinchas Zukerman and Amanda Forsyth, Carol Prins and John Hart

from the Community Music School; award-winning students from the renowned Academy, a training center for gifted pre-college musicians; and young students from its outreach programs, including ArtsLink, an arts integration program offered in partnership with Chicago Public Schools, and Third Coast Suzuki Strings, a violin program on Chicago’s

Dawn Meiners and Mary Galvin

Northwest Side in collaboration with the YMCA of Metro Chicago. The prestigious Dushkin Award, established 30 years ago and named for the Music Institute’s visionary founders, Dorothy and David

Gala performer Ria Honda

Dushkin, recognizes international luminaries in the world of music for their contributions to the art form, as well as to the education of youth. This year’s recipient, Pinchas Zukerman, has remained a phenomenon in the world of classical music for more than four decades. Rick Waddell, Northern Trust's retiring chairman, accepted the Cultural Visionary Award and the Richard D. Colburn Award for Teaching Excellence was presented to Stanley Davis, a 58-year member of the clarinet and saxophone faculty. Honorary co-chairs were Susan R. Kiphart, Alexandra and John Nichols and Rachel Barton Pine. (Photos by Ana Miyares and Bob Carl)

The host with the MOST, Tom Kehoe!

Pride Weekend was extra special this year thanks to the first Tea Dance hosted by Tom Kehoe in his new home in Old Town on June 24. You couldn't miss the location since

With Tracey Tarantino, Nina Mariano, Ana Belaval and friend.

2 story Pride Flags decorated the front of the house and the sounds of laughter and music could be heard for blocks. It was a happy crowd that included MK and JB Pritzker, Julie Barrish, Jean Antoniou and her beautiful daughter Andrea, Mark Olley, Quenten Schumacher, Trevor Heffernon, Tom Carto, Ana Belaval, Tracey Tarantino, Mamie Walton, Heather Ingram, David Murga, Nina Mariano and

Stunning Julie Barrish and fabulous DJ Madrid Perry!

a host of others. A half-sawed off horse statue served as a unique bar (in true Tom Fashion) and DJ Madrid Perry kept the crowd dancing, dancing, dancing in the

With MK and JB Pritzker

newly planted backyard–full grown trees had been brought in making the garden look like it's existed for 50 years or more. Inside the chic, two-story house delicious food was everywhere you looked. Tom's home is a testimony to good taste, as you would expect, and as guests took self-guided tours, you could hear oohs and ahhhs coming from every elegant room. It was a great celebration dedicated to love and friendship and it was an honor to be included. Long may you reign Tom KEHOE!

And speaking of Tom, another shout-out for the Geraghty's new ad campaign! The latest ad for this fabulous venue is included in the latest issue of Michigan Avenue Magazine and I was so excited to be included along with David Murga, Ava Fain, Zach Brake, Danielle Robay, Luis Lazaro Gonzalez, Josephine Lee and Brock Williams. The fun photo was taken by Bob Davis (Bob & Dawn Davis Photography)

Rev Up Chicago!, sponsored by Bentley Motor Coach, will honor Pat and Joe Perillo at its annual fashion extravaganza on Wed. August 22 at Bentley Gold Coast. The exciting line up of participating local designers will include Brandon Blackshear, Caroline

Honorees Joe and Pat Perillo

Rose, Heidi Hess, Lauren Lein Ltd., M2057, Mira Couture, Model Atelier, Rebellion, Ricorso, ARMagamiI and Varyform. The Stanley Paul Fund will award its Tuition Scholarship this evening to one of the 5 finalists whose designs will appear on the runway. The show will be emceed by Erica Strama and produced by Susan Glick. I'm proud and honored to be the honorary event chair! Hope you can all join us! For tickets, beginning at $200, and more info, please click here!

Joanne C. Smith, MD, pres/CEO, addresses Spark! attendees

The Shirley Ryan AbilityLab’s first-ever Spark! signature event was held May 31, at the Four Seasons Chicago and attracted more than 350 supporters. The special benefit —the first the organization has hosted since

Matthew Passen, Trisha Tesmer, Nicollette Khuans, Nathan Chambery and Ted Fournier

officially opening the doors to its new research hospital in 2017 —generated $2.5 million in support for its best-in-class care and ground-breaking research. The event featured a rousing performance by Ali Stroker, star of TV, Broadway and film, as well as an immersive video experience highlighting the best of the Shirley Ryan AbilityLab. That's some pretty impressive fundraising for a first time event! Congrats, congrats, CONGRATS!

Co-founder Paul Epstein, actor and HSCM emcee Joel Murray, Cubs President of Baseball Operations and FTBNL co-founder Theo Epstein, former Cubs pitcher and HSCM emcee Ryan Dempster welcome the crowd.

A host of Chicago and Boston baseball and music All-Stars joined forces to raise nearly $500,000 to support Chicago and Boston youth and their families at the Hot Stove Cool Music Chicago concert and event series recently. The proceeds benefited Cubs

Chicago Children's Choir kicked off the night.

Charities and Foundation To Be Named Later, a non-profit founded by Chicago Cubs President of Baseball Operations Theo

#1-Peter Gammons hits the stage as a part of Hot Stove Cool Music Chicago

Peter Gammons hits the stage as a part of Hot Stove Cool Music Chicago Concert

Epstein. The weekend events celebrated music, baseball and giving back and included the seventh annual Chicago concert and the annual Urban Classic Baseball game featuring elite youth teams from Illinois, Massachusetts and Pennsylvania. Baseball Hall of Fame journalist Peter Gammons and Epstein hosted the annual concert fundraiser, which was headlined by critically acclaimed rock band and Illinois natives The Orwells, and also featured musical performances by Gammons, HSCM supergroup Band Of Their Own (featuring Kay Hanley, Jenny Dee, Jennifer Hall and Kate Tucker) and All-Star ensembles from both Boston and Chicago that included Will Dailey, Chris

The Orwells headlined the seventh annual Hot Stove Cool Music Chicago Concert

The Orwells headlined the 7th annual Hot Stove Cool Music Chicago Concert.

Cote (The Upper Crust), Matt Spiegel, Ed Valauskas (The Gravel Pit) and Jason Narducy. WXRT-FM’s Lin Brehmer, actor Joel Murray, NBC Sports Chicago’s Leila Rahimi and former Cubs pitcher Ryan Dempster served as event emcees. Special guest appearances on stage included Cub’s manager Joe Maddon, first baseman Anthony Rizzo, and former pitcher David Ross. The weekend culminated with the Urban Classic Baseball Tournament, which shines a spotlight on the importance of urban baseball and academics by bringing together elite youth urban baseball clubs from across the country.

Bonnie Hunt with honoree/philanthropist Ann Lurie

Gilda’s Club Chicago honored its co-founder Ann Lurie as they celebrated 20 years of free cancer support at their annual dinner recently. Ann expressed her gratitude by stating, “This is exactly what we envisioned when we started Gilda’s Club 20 years ago.” Guest emcee Bonnie Hunt, who was once an oncology nurse in Chicago, shared her enthusiasm for the organization. “No one should have to

Gilda's Club executive director LauraJane Hyde presents Ann Lurie with award

face cancer alone and Gilda’s Club makes that possible.” The event raised a record-breaking $970,000 for the non-profit's mission–to ensure that all people impacted by cancer are empowered by knowledge, strengthened by action and sustained by community. Gilda’s Club Chicago serves everyone living with cancer – men, women, teens and children – along with their families and friends.

Paola Salcedo with OMD co-founder Dave Scherer

One Million Degrees hosted its 11^th annual Degrees of Impact Food & Wine Gala on June 1 at Rockwell on the River, a brand new event space in the Avondale neighborhood. The event attracted 650 guests and raised $795,000. The event honored OMD Scholars and alumni, with special

12 Degrees of Impact co-chairs John and Deb Gross

recognition to the Honorable Melissa Bean, chairman of Midwest JPMorgan Chase, for her support of OMD and longtime service on its Board of Directors, including as its current Vice Chair.

Tony Preckwinkle, Melissa Bean and Paige Ponder with OMD Scholars

The Degrees of Impact gala, co-chaired by Deb Gross and Caroline Grossinger, mixed food and wine from some of Chicago’s top chefs with moving speeches from OMD Scholars and alumni

OMD Scholars

about how OMD is changing outcomes for them, their children, families and communities. OMD is the only organization in Illinois, and one of few in the country, dedicated to providing comprehensive supports to low-income, highly motivated community college students to help them succeed in school, in work, and in life.

For 25 years the West Suburban Humane Society has celebrated everything-dog at their annual Barkapalooza. This half-day, family-friendly fest for dogs and their people, will return to Lisle Community Park located at 1825 Short Street in Lisle, Illinois, on Sunday, September 30, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. This extremely dog-friendly event allows pet owners, prospective pet adopters, and all-around pet lovers to raise money for homeless dogs and cats through a Dog Walkathon and Pet Expo full of pet-related vendors. Participants are encouraged to collect pledges for the walkathon, and all proceeds will support the West Suburban Humane Society, at their signature annual fundraiser. (For more info, click here!)

Filming "Collector's Call" with Thomas Joyce and Leslie Hindman

Chuck and I were excited to be featured on a new show airing in the fall or winter called "Collector's Call". The show is being produced by Weigel Broadcasting with host Lisa Whelchel (from The

A pre-production meeting with the Weigel Broadcasting crew

Facts of Life). I was able to convince friend Leslie Hindman to appear with me and she offered some interesting insights into the world of auctions. The show showcased our rare book collection with comments/appraisals offered by rare book expert Thomas Joyce. Stay tuned for programming info coming soon!

The American Egg Board (AEB) presented a check for $10K to RMHC

Giuliana and Bill Rancic with son Duke, along with The Incredible Egg, celebrated the much-anticipated release of Disney Pixar’s “Incredibles 2” at the Loews Chicago Hotel on June 15. The American Egg

The Bill, Duke and Giuliana Rancic enjoy "egg-cellent" food at event

Board (AEB) is supporting the superhero families of the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Chicagoland & Northwest Indiana (RMHC-CNI) with a $10,000 charitable donation and year-long supply of eggs to the local kitchens in five local RMHC-CNI Houses. Now that's what I call One Good Egg! (You knew that was coming, right?)

Tribune's Tim Knight and Bruce Dold celebrate move with Eli's Cheesecake's Marc Schulman

Well, the Chicago Tribune has left its historic home to regroup at One Prudential Plaza. To mark this momentous occasion, Eli's Cheesecake Company delivered a HUGE congratulatory cheesecake with owners Maureen and Marc Schulman doing the cutting/serving honors themselves! As you know, it's NOT a party unless Eli's is there!

Chicago Gateway Green's Grant DePorter with GTB committee members Neal Zucker, Beth Heller, Jacky Ferro, Linda Johnson Rice and Marko Iglendza

Chicago Gateway Green hosted a kick-off party for the upcoming Green Tie Ball ("Green Eggs & Glam") at Lamborghini Gold Coast on June 25. Joe Perillo

The gang's all here! Green Tie Ball committee members at Lamborghini Gold Coast kick-off party!

welcomed guests and thanked CGG chairman Grant DePorter and the team for all they do to beautify Chicago. Committee members in attendance included Neal Zucker and Marko Iglendza, Linda Johnson Rice, Jon and Andrew

Green Tie Ball committee members Cynthia Au, Heather and Bruce Ingram and Peter Au

Landan, Heather and Bruce Ingram, James Feeley, Cynthia and Peter Au, Liza Sweitzer, Beth Heller, Jacky Ferro, Matthew McCahill, David Lissner,

With GTB co-chair Nina Mariano

Auxiliary Board members and others. Executive director Tony Abruscato thanked everyone for coming and shared updates about the event. This party will be held at the Geraghty (for the first time) on Friday, September 14! Tickets will go fast as this event is an annual sellout! (For more info/tix, click here!) Excited to have Nina Mariano as my co-chair!

Chuck and I have found our Happy Place!

You cannot miss a visit to the Happy Place! Founded by Jared Paul and opened originally in November of 2017 in Los Angeles, this massive pop-up experience (20,000+ square-feet)

Just a fly on the wall!

is filled with larger than life-size installations, multi-sensory immersive rooms and dozens of curated Insta-Moments to #CaptureYourHappy! Highlights include dancing in the middle of the world's largest indoor Confetti Dome, jumping off of a larger than life double rainbow into a pot of happiness, posing inside Happy Place's signature rubber ducky bathtub of fun and taking photos in the Super Bloom Room amid 15,000 blossoms! And let's not forget 7-foot stilettos made of a million candies and 6' tall X and O letters made out of thousands of tiny mirrors, surrounded by a wall of one thousand red lips! Well, you get the picture! It's a mini Disneyland right at 1004 N. Elston! Catch it now before it leaves for another lucky city on August 6!

And lastly, love and a shout-out to ABC-7's Kathy Brock who recently retired after 30 years. She has always been a class act and an unerring reporter. I always loved seeing her next to Alan Krashesky, one of the best, in my opinion, but I know she has another door to open. I can't wait to see where her next chapter takes her!

We hope your July 4th celebrations were happy and safe!

That's it for this week! I hope you've been entertained, learned something new and, perhaps, was introduced to a new nonprofit that you might want to wrap your arms around. Enjoy summer in Chicago!

Love,

P.S. And, as always, something to leave you with a smile! This is the "What the Fluff Challenge?" that's been sweeping the internet! Pets are confounded by their disappearing owners!

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

June 13, 2018 · 11:11 am

A TIP OF THE HAT TO THE SERVICE CLUB OF CHICAGO

PLUS THE GOODMAN THEATRE GALA; LINCOLN PARK ZOO'S ZOO-OLOGIE; ALEXIAN BROTHERS BAL DE FLEUR; CHICAGO'S RITA HAYWORTH GALA; THE BIG FISH BALL; NATURE CONSERVANCY'S 60TH ANNIVERSARY GALA; MISERICORDIA'S SPRING FASHION SHOW; EVENING OF IMPACT FOR RVA; EXCELLENCE IN GARDENING AWARDS; TOO MANY LOSSES; EVERSIGHT ILLINOIS GALA KICK-OFF PARTY; DANCING AT THE GERAGHTY; MY SISTER'S CIRCUS CELEBRATES 50; ROCK THE BOAT WITH DINA BAIR; CUTE VIDEOS AND SOOOO MUCH MORE!

Hats were the order of the day in every shape and size

Coco Chanel said, "In order to be irreplaceable, one must always be different." Well, over 300 ladies must have received the memo because they were all different and fashionable at the Service Club of

Co-chairs Myra Reilly and Lynda Silverman with SC president Tracey DiBuono

Chicago's annual Hat Luncheon at The Onwentsia Club in Lake Forest on May 21. The afternoon opened with welcoming remarks from new Service Club president Tracey DiBuono who thanked the crowd for its

Longtime member SC Sherry Lea Holson was honored at the event

support. "Our events succeed because our members and guests are so supportive of our worthwhile mission." WGN-TV's Micah Materre emceed the event and welcomed co-chairs Myra Reilly and Lynda Silverman. They

Micah Materre and Pam Capitanini

kicked off the inaugural "Hat Walk," led by dancers from ZZAZZ Productions, who paraded with guests around the rooms to showcase their millinery selections to the judges. The fashionable winners were Tina Weller, Mamie Walton and Mark Olley. Leading the "walk" was the event's

Tina Weller, another stylish hat award winner!

honorary chair Sherry Lea Holson, a longtime SC member who has chaired the Spring Luncheon for many years and has been instrumental in the growth and

David Nguyen, Sharyl Mackey, Jean Antoniou and Duc Ho.

continued success of the nonprofit. "Truly the honor belongs to all the women of the Service Club for their hard work, all of our friends who support us and, most importantly, all the charities that are so deserving that

Mamie Walton won an award for her stunning hat.

we've been able to support," Sherry said. Rounding out the day were memory-making sketches by famed illustrator Rosemary Fanti, a great raffle with luxury items donated by members and friends, and an “open call” to help fund the Philanthropic Grant Program. The Service Club of Chicago's mission is to assist, improve and expand upon agency programs in the Chicagoland area. Its grant recipients operate in the areas of social service, cultural, educational and civic fields. The SC is an all-volunteer women's organization founded in 1890 with all proceeds distributed to the most-worthy non-profit agencies in our community. (Photos by John Reilly Photography)

Décor by Kehoe Designs

The Goodman Theatre celebrated the 40^th anniversary of its Women’s Board at its “Ruby Night” spring gala, headlined by Tony Award-winning singer Renée Elise Goldsberry on June 5. The black-tie

Tony Award-winning singer Renée Elise Goldsberry

event, where more than 500 guests gathered at the Fairmont Chicago, raised more than $1 million to support the theater’s education and community engagement programs. The

Goodman Theatre Board Member Kimbra Walter, Goodman Theatre Life Trustee Les Coney, Danielle Morse, Samantha Walter and Goodman Theatre Board Member Abbe Aron

event was co-chaired by Joan E. Clifford, Swati Mehta and Alice Sabl. It began with a reception in the International ballroom followed by a program and dinner in the Imperial

Revan Watkins, Bill Aylesworth and Goodman Theatre Scenemakers Board Member Dujon Smith

Ballroom, which was decorated with an assortment of ruby red embellishments in keeping with the evening's theme.

Nubia Murray

Goldsberry kicked off the evening with a mash-up of Alan Jay Lerner’s famed “On a Clear Day You Can See Forever” and Johnny Nash’s #1 hit “I Can See Clearly.” She paid tribute to Hughie Cannon with the 1902 Jazz classic tune “Bill Bailey, Won’t You Please Come Home” followed by “Beat Out Dat Rhythm” from the Broadway musical Carmen Jones. Goldsberry nodded to her most notable Broadway roles

Flea Theatre Artistic Director Niegel Smith, Goodman Theatre Resident Artistic Associate Henry Godinez and Gaby Godinez

with “Shadow Lands,” from The Lion King, in which she portrayed Nala; the popular “Satisfied” and “Schuyler Sisters” from her recent role as Angelica Schuyler—a role she originated—in the smash sensation Hamilton; and “Without You” from her role as the last “Mimi” in Rent: Filmed Live on Broadway by Jonathan Larson. She concluded her performance with a show-stopping rendition of “You’ll Never Walk Alone” from Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Carousel. The evening concluded with dancing to the sounds of The Gentleman of Leisure. (John Reilly Photography)

Auxiliary Board president Jacob Ringer and Aux. Bd. member Megan Waligora

Nearly 650 of Chicago’s most influential young professionals walked the walk for wildlife at Lincoln Park Zoo’s Zoo-ologie: Walk on the Wild Side on May 12. This 8th annual Auxiliary Board event raised more than $160,000 to support Lincoln Park Zoo’s The Pride of Chicago campaign which helps fund new initiatives at the zoo such as the

Co-chairs Tara From, Tiffany McCormick and Jennifer Splawski with Aux. Bd. pres. Jacob Ringer.

Searle Visitor Center, slated to open this fall. Enjoying the new event footprint this year, the Explorer Add-On VIP package kicked off the night with a special reception

Auxiliary Board at the AT & T Endangered Species Carousel

that included delicious food stations, passed champagne and front-of-scenes tours with animal keepers in the intimate Regenstein Small Mammal-Reptile House. All guests indulged their

Cherie Richardson, Aux. Bd. member, takes a joyful spin on the Carousel.

culinary curiosities with fare from 20 different Chicago restaurants, danced to the tunes of Blake Alexander and DJ Rock City and bid on numerous premier packages during the silent auction, including an all-inclusive stay at a private resort in Acapulco and tickets to the musical Hamilton. Zoo-ologie guests were the first to try “Coco Loro,” coconut milk stout with Puerto Rican spiced rum flavors crafted by DryHop Brewers to benefit the zoo’s work to conserve the critically endangered Puerto Rican parrot. DryHop’s executive Chef Will Befort paired this craft brew with mole rojo braised beef short ribs served over coconut rice. The evening was co-chaired by Auxiliary Board members Tara From, Tiffany McCormick and Jennifer Splawski.

Mike Benoit (Alexian Brothers Foundation Board Chair) and Mary Alice Benoit with Mark Frey (pres/CEO AMITA Health and Alexian Bros. Health System) and Susanne Frey.

It was an evening filled with the wonder of wildlife when nearly 500 guests united against the silhouette of city skyscrapers for the 32^nd annual Alexian Brothers Ball de Fleur at the Lincoln Park Zoo

Walker Moore and Lauren Rasmussen

recently. Supporters enjoyed a warm summer evening celebrating and supporting the Alexian Brothers mission as they mixed elegance with exploration for one of the organization's most unique gala settings. The enthusiasm was reflected in the evening’s

Wendy Levy, Helen Newmark, Meg Racenstein, Victoria Rivkin, Shalva and Dr. Deena Leonard

success as guests, along with the presenting sponsor Superior Ambulance Service and 30 corporate sponsors, helped raise nearly $800,000 to help transform bodies, minds

Emcee Robin Robinson and Jade Williams.

and spirits of community members recovering from substance use and behavioral health disorders. Décor featured brilliant chandeliers, blooming centerpieces and gold accents

Francine Comer and Jack Ceraulo

for the “Safari Under the Stars” themed gala complete with a delectable four-course gourmet dinner and upbeat dance music by TC

Stephanie Comer and Jan Augustine

Squared. Guests were invited to gander at the African lions, gaze at the graceful harbor and grey seals at Kovler Seal Pool and take a whirl around the

Brian Schmidt (president, Mr. David’s Foundation Board), Sherri McKinney, Kevin Isken and Shannon Schmidt

AT&T Endangered Species Carousel. In addition, Lincoln Park Zoo experts were on hand to share stories about the animals

Michelle and Dr. Rajeev Gupta

including the Japanese snow monkeys swinging in the treetops of the Regenstein Macaque Forest. The event program incorporated an exciting silent auction and impact video detailing the journeys of two children on the autism spectrum and the vital support provided

Mark Frey (pres./CEO, AMITA Health and Alexian Brothers Health System), Mary Franco (VP, Superior Air-Ground Ambulance Service), emcee Robin Robinson, and Mike Benoit (Alexian Brothers Foundation board chair and managing director).

by AMITA Health Autism Spectrum and Developmental Disorders Resource Center team members. Emcee Robin Robinson, Director of Community Affairs for the Chicago Police Department, brought her considerable broadcasting experience to the stage as she welcomed guests and introduced Mary Franco, Vice

Cheryl Potts (executive director, Alexian Brothers Housing and Health Alliance in Chicago) and Dan Hooper.

President, Superior Air-Ground Ambulance Service, Inc., who offered a toast, followed by an invocation presented by Michael Benoit, Alexian Brothers Foundation Board Chair. “Tonight we spotlight the needs of those on the autism spectrum and continue our

Erin Clancy, Matt Pickering and Kelley Clancy (senior VP/Chief Advocacy Officer, AMITA Health).

crusade to break the stigma associated with mental illness and psychiatric disorders,” said Mark Frey, president/CEO, AMITA Health and Alexian Brothers Health System. The live auction included an African Safari Experience in Cape Town, South Africa. that sold for $20,000; a legendary Elton John “Farewell Yellow Brick Road Tour” concert package that sold for $11,000; and a Costa Rican seven-night vacation that sold for $11,000. The silent and reverse auctions added more than $200,000 to the Alexian Brothers Foundation’s philanthropic effort to reach more individuals and families who need behavioral health services. The Alexian Brothers began their healthcare mission more than 800 years ago in Europe and more locally in 1866 – on Dearborn Street and eventually Belden Avenue in Chicago – not far from this year’s venue for the Alexian Brothers Ball de Fleur. Since the first Ball in 1987, the Alexian Brothers Foundation has raised more than $8 million for programs that administer compassionate healthcare and housing services to Chicago-area residents.

Jordan Walker-Pearlman Princess Yasmin Aga Khan Karen Wilder 4001

Jordan Walker-Pearlman, Princess Yasmin Aga Khan and Karen Wilder

The Alzheimer’s Association hosted its 31^st annual Chicago Rita Hayworth Gala at the Hilton Chicago on May 12. More than 700 guests attended this greatly-

Joan and Paul Rubschlager

anticipated event, which was themed around “Pure Imagination, “– a nod to the late Gene Wilder who died due to complications surrounding Alzheimer’s in 2016 and his iconic role as Willy Wonka in “Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory.” Karen Wilder (Gene’s widow) and nephew,

Joseph Rhodes, Natalie Morales and Jon Harris

Jordan Walker-Pearlman received the “Pure Imagination” award in honor of Gene for their support of the cause. Natalie Morales (West

Richard Dent, Princess Yasmin Aga Khan and DeEtta Jones

Coast anchor of NBC’s “TODAY,” host of NBCU’s “Access” and co-host of “Access Live") received the “The Caregiver Award” alongside her family (including husband Joseph Rhodes), which recognized them for their longtime efforts towards raising awareness for Alzheimer’s and families living with a similar experience. The event raised over $1.1 million for the organization. (Photos by Bill Richert)

Studio Gang winners

The annual Friends of the Chicago River gala, The Big Fish Ball, was held at the Chicago Westin River North on June 5. The exciting and informative event,

Margaret Frisbie, FCR executive director, and her little raccoon friend

emceed by CBS-2's Ed Curran, featured live animals, an award ceremony honoring the best in river-sensitive developments and projects and a post-party Chicago River boat cruise. The winner of this year’s top prize, the Blue Ribbon

A young supporter witnesses wildlife up close and personal

Award, was won by Eleanor Street Boathouse. Located in the South Side Bridgeport neighborhood and designed by Studio Gang, the two-structure serves as a community field house and a rowing, training, and boat storage facility.

River creatures were on display much to the delight of guests.

It has been cited as “a sign of neighborhood rebirth.” Margaret Frisbie, Friends of the Chicago River executive director, told the crowd that through the "power of partnership, the river that was once forgotten and neglected has been brought back to life and now plays a vital role for recreation, nature, public health, and economic development in the city and the region. We have rewritten the story of the Chicago River." Frisbie stated that over 60,000 people participated in Friends'

The after-party river cruise is always a highlight!

programs including Chicago River Day, restoration work, its school education efforts and the Bridgehouse Museum on the Chicago Riverwalk. In addition, Friends influenced river-edge

Selfies on the river.

developers calling for natural banks over seawalls and restored hundreds of acres of open space to improve habitat for birds, beavers, turtles, foxes, minks, muskrats, and the occasional river otter. Frisbie said, "As we know from being out on the river’s edge tonight, the river is cleaner and healthier than it has been in more than 100 years." Congrats to chairs Richard Sit and my friend Richard Wilson on a job well done! The event raised over $280,000 for the non-profit and included notable guests Illinois Treasurer Michael Frerichs, Cook County Commissioner John Daley, Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago president Mariyana Spyropoulis, and Chicago aldermen Michele Smith, Scott Waguespack and Patrick Thompson. (Photos by Ian Vecchiotti)

Co-chairs Ethan and Coco Meers and Susu and Flip Block

The Nature Conservancy hosted its 60th anniversary gala on Northerly Island on May 19. The event, that celebrated 60 years of conservation and the organization's vision of a world in which nature and

Michelle Carr and former Mayor Rich Daley

people thrive, was co-chaired by Flip and Susu Block, Mirja and Ted Haffner and Coco and Ethan Meers. Michelle Carr (chapter director), staff and volunteers welcomed over 500 guests as they made their way into the main gala area where champagne

Mayor Emanuel schmoozes with TNC staff at science station

and light fare were offered. The décor, that included living trees, a stylish open bar, major donor lounge areas and strolling supper servers, was envisioned by Paulette Wolf Events and Entertainment. Mayor Rahm

Dramatic tent decor

Emanuel joined Carr on a trip around the room to visit science stations that helped illustrate some of the conservation work that is done around the city and the state as it pertains to protecting lands and waters. Former Mayor Richard M.

Decor on Northerly Island for the 60th anniversary Nature Conservancy gala

Daley also joined the Conservancy as guests of TNC supporter Daniel Li of Wanxiang America. Beat Mix Music provided a short drum performance. Carr introduced the Mayor who

Decor on Northerly Island for the 60th anniversary Nature Conservancy gala

presented a short but inspiring speech about the importance of protecting the environment for the next generation. The Hamill Family, with matriarch Nancy Hamill Winter, received the Conservancy’s coveted Conservation Legacy and Achievement Award. The event raised over $1 million for the organization and included notable guests Jamee Field Kane and Michael Kane, Caroline and Keating Crown, Karen and Liam Krehbiel, Silvia and Jay Krehbiel, Lincoln Schatz (contemporary artist), Lori Gray Faversham, Vicki and Bruce Heyman, Amanda and George Hanley, Susan and Michael Canmann, Marion Searle Rice and Tanner Rice, Errett and Julia Van Nice, Solveig Ovstebo and Morten Kvamme and Catherine and Mamadou Sarr.

Spring was in the air for Misericordia's colorful fashion show/luncheon on May 11.

The Misericorcdia Women’s Auxiliary welcomed over 600 guests to their annual Spring Luncheon and Fashion Show on May 11 held at the Hilton Chicago. The event featured a runway show highlighting the

Sister Rosemary Connelly surrounded by Misericordia friends

latest in Spring Fashions and trends with looks from Bloomingdale’s Old Orchard. Guests also enjoyed an elegant lunch, a moving performance from the Misericordia Heartbreakers and

Misericordia fashion show finale by Bloomingdale's Old Orchard

the chance to shop at a PopUp Shop from Bloomingdale’s for the looks featured on the runway that day. The event raised over $200,000 in support of the Misericordia Home which serves over 600 children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities by providing quality residential, training and employment services.

Rape Victim Advocates hosted its 15th Evening of Impact fundraiser, celebrating 44 years of progress toward ending sexual violence and

Erin Walton, RVA exec. dir. w/ MeToo founder/activist Tarana Burke and Anne Biere, RVA board pres.

attracting more than 350 guests at Morgan Manufacturing on May 24. RVA presented Just Be, Inc. and MeToo founder, Tarana Burke, with the Dr. Natalie A. Stephens Visionary Award,

A New Direction Board President Jessica McCarihan with JB Pritzker

named after RVA’s founder. This honor recognizes the work of far-sighted leaders who have made a powerful and lasting impact in the fight to end sexual violence. Former RVA client, mental health expert and author Kelley Kitley

Alisa Road, Ariana Erickson, Alissa Groeninger, Emily Snider and Daphne Ortiz

also spoke about her experiences. The evening raised more than $132,000 to advance RVA's mission to provide healing and empowerment to sexual assault survivors through

RVA Board Member Tracie Anderson with Molly Waller

non-judgmental intervention counseling. The not-for-profit also provides education and institutional advocacy to improve the treatment of sexual assault survivors and to effect positive change in policies and public attitudes toward sexual assault. (Photo by Soda Fountain Photography).

Shovels UP! The 2018 Chicago Excellence in Gardening Awards are now OPEN! The contest is open to residents of Chicago and judging will begin in July! For more details and to enter your handiwork, click here! (multiple categories!)

Decades TV Collections pre-meeting--5-18

Planning a shoot for the new show, "Collector's Call" premiering soon!

Had an exciting pre-production meeting last week with the crew from Decades TV Network/ Weigel Broadcasting! Chuck and I are excited to have our rare book collection featured on their new national show called "Collector's Call" premiering soon! Thanks to Leslie Hindman for agreeing to appear too! I bought our first "collectible" books, first editions by Ernest Hemingway, from her fabulous auction house in 1995!

Celebrating at CS Mag's Dynamic Women celebration at the Gwen with MyEyeDr's Michael Caputo.

Thanks to Chicago Social Magazine for hosting a fun-filled celebration of its "Dynamic Women" feature on the rooftop of the Gwen Chicago on May 31! They gifted all of the honorees with framed photos of their pages. So sweet!

2018 Visionary Marco Foster (center) and friends.

The Eversight Illinois gala kick-off party took place on the elegant rooftop of AMLI River North on June 6. Over 100 guests enjoyed breathtaking views, delicious bites from Hubbard Inn, cocktails courtesy of Toast Vodka and beats by DJ Duerell Jones. Special shout-out to Visionary honoree Marco Foster for

It's NEVER a party until the Landan Twins arrive! (Andrew and Jon, Chuck and Michael Kutza)

arranging this perfect night out with Pam Churchill, AMLI's Regional Marketing Coordinator. This River North luxury rental building is located at 71 W. Hubbard with amenities that include a

Gala co-chair Michael Caputo welcomes the crowd.

super-sized pool, indoor virtual driving range, dog run for pampered pooches, multiple grills, fire-pits, theatre, on-site concierge and so much more! For more info, click here! And I hope you can all join my fellow co-chair Michael Caputo and me for the main event on Thursday, June 28 at the Peninsula! We have lots of surprises in store as we honor Foster and Dr. Elmer Tu as our 2018 visionaries! (For gala tickets and more info, click here!)

With David Murga at The Geraghty shoot.

Get ready for another exciting ad coming from The Chicago Geraghty soon! I was thrilled to be included in this shoot that also featured Ava Fain, David Murga, Josephine Lee, Danielle Robay and two darling male models! Shot by Bob Davis (Bob & Dawn Davis Photography), the afternoon was filled with dancing, dancing, dancing and dazzling special effects! Stay tuned for all the fun coming soon to your local magazines!

Early brochure for My Sister's Circus that included me (far left) and Jeanouche Wopinski (top right)

Congrats to one of my favorite stores, My Sister's Circus, who are celebrating 50 years on the Mag Mile! Located in The 900 Shops on the 4th floor, this go-to spot for unique fashions is owned by my friend Sue Gantz. We go wayyyy back, all the way to my Playboy centerfold shoot in 1979 when she and her store were featured prominently in my lay-out. Congrats on this milestone and here's to 50 more!

WGN-TV's Dina Bair and Sarah McCarron will host "Rock the Boat", an afternoon of yachting to benefit Selah Freedom's mission to end sex trafficking. The boat ride will last from 1 to 4 pm on Sunday, Sept. 16 and depart from the docks at the DuSable Harbor on the Chicago River, 111 N. Lake Shore Drive. (For tickets and more info, click here).

The late Steve Nardi and his wife of 22 years, Deirdre Nardi.

We lost a good friend and a leader in the community with the passing of Stephen "Steve" Nardi on May 25. Steve was born and raised in Maywood and is survived by his devoted wife of 22 years, Deirdre Dunn Nardi, his daughter Kimberly Eyer, his son Stephen Craig Nardi, 6 grandchildren and one great-granddaughter. Deirdre and

Steve had a passion for horses.

Steve shared a passion for all things Italian and traveled many times to Italy and their favorite region of Tuscany. Steve was involved in the horse community in Wayne, Illinois, and both were members of the Dunham Woods Riding Club. Steve was a leader in the industrial and commercial real estate industry too and had recently

Deirdre and Steve.

started a software business. He played polo for many years all over the world and served as Master of the Hounds for the Oakbrook Fox Hunt. After retiring from the Hunt, he and his wife donated all of the property, 300 acres, to the Byron Forest Preserve, with equestrian rights in perpetuity. Chuck and I saw the couple at the Big Shoulders Fund Dinner the night before he passed. Only God knows what plans he has for us and you never know when it might be the last time you see a friend. RIP Steve….and my sincerest condolences to Deirdre and his family.

The late and much loved Anthony Bourdain

On another sad note, I'm having trouble wrapping my mind around the suicide of beloved celebrity bad boy chef/ TV host/ author/ travel expert, Anthony Bourdain at age 61. Chuck and I

Charles Krauthammer, Pulitzer Prize-winning author/commentator

never missed a segment of his award-winning "Parts Unknown." I loved his acerbic wit and no bull-shit policy. What he felt/thought is what he said. I also loved the fact that he championed and gravitated toward the underdogs. In this excellent Eater article, Bourdain called Chicago, "a colossus

Bourdain with former President Obama enjoying a meal in Vietnam in 2016

right smack in the middle of the country with everything that I love about a city — tall towers, hard corners, and sharp elbows. And, of course, food.” Shortly after this sad news was announced, another favorite of ours, Charles Krauthammer, Pulitzer-Prize winning author/commentator, shared the news that he only had a few weeks to live following a diagnosis that his cancer had spread. Too sad for words…all around. Make sure you hug the ones you love and, if you feel like someone might be considering suicide, please urge them to call the suicide hotline to talk to someone, 800.273.8255.

Congrats to Chef Art Smith and Jesus Salgueiro who became the first same sex married couple to throw out the first pitch at Wrigley Field on June 10. They're always leading the way!

That's it for this week. Hope you've discovered something new or an event that you want to put on your calendar! And, if you're not a subscriber, please sign up HERE now! My lists are never shared, only treasured.

Love, as always,

P.S. And, of course, something to leave you with a smile! Everybody needs a hug, maybe now more than ever.

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

May 25, 2018 · 10:18 am

CHICAGO’S VERY OWN PRINCESS, MAMIE WALTON, CELEBRATES 90 IN ROYAL STYLE

PLUS BROOKFIELD ZOO'S "WHIRL"; MAUREEN AND MARC HONORED AT STANLEY PAUL BENEFIT; A STARRY NIGHT AT COMMFEST; THOUGHTS ON THE ROYAL WEDDING; CHICAGO HOUSE'S "RALLY ON THE RUNWAY"; SPECIAL OLYMPICS' "INSPIRE GREATNESS"; MATT BRINGS FITNESS TO A NEW LEVEL; HANDS OF PEACE BENEFIT; GOODBYE GALA FOR A LIVING LANDMARK; HONORS FOR MOSQUITO; NIGHTLIFE GURU BJ MURRAY RETURNS FOR LYME FIGHT; GENE SISKEL FILM CENTER TO HONOR ETHAN HAWKE; MELISSA RETURNS TO US VIA WLIT-FM!; BUTTERFLY BALL; ST. JANE HOTEL PREVIEW; CUTE VIDEOS AND SO MUCH MORE!!!

Birthday girl Mamie Walton dances with Prince Harry!

Everyone loves Mamie! Chicago's very own social queen and beloved philanthropist, Mamie Walton (herself a Brit) celebrated her 90th birthday in a style that rivaled the royal wedding's! The Peninsula was dressed in the colors of the

A cake fit for a queen!

Union Jack with jolly good decor by Kehoe Designs, planned in collaboration with the Pen's Greg Hyder and, of course, Mamie. 126 by-invite-only guests arrived through a dramatic, scarlet set of sheer curtains to enter London's High Street where storefronts like Harrod's filled the lobby alongside bright red traditional English phone booths. Four fully outfitted

Mamie's elegant invitation included this sweet tribute to her late love Julius Walton, her true prince!

Beefeaters (really Coldstream Guards) were also on hand to greet partygoers. Mamie welcomed guests in a stunning, gold, floor-length Michael Kors gown that perfectly complimented her always chic blond bob. When the

Handsome men Bob Zec, Peter Martino, Cary Frank and Chuck Jordan

doors opened to the ballroom, you could hear gasps from the crowd as they looked upon splendor like I've never seen before. (See decor HERE!) White roses overflowed on every table beside candles

Jean Antoniou, Sherry Holson, Greg Hyder and Mark Olley

displayed in elegant crystal holders. Multiple chandeliers were grouped together in the ceiling above the dance floor where a towering, gilded

Myra Reilly with Bill and Cathy Bartholomay

cake sat with a golden statue of "Mamie (ala Marilyn)" on top holding an American flag and the Union Jack. Stanley Paul's band had the crowd on the dance floor for most of the night except when they were enjoying a gourmet British-inspired dinner

Heather and Bruce Ingram with Toni Canada

prepared by the Pen's executive chef Toni Robertson (in collaboration with Greg, the Pen's Catering Director) that featured Beef Wellington and for dessert, Eton Mess (a traditional British dessert consisting of strawberries, meringue, whipped heavy cream

Peter and Karen Martino

and strawberry sorbet). As guests finished dinner, trumpets sounded and the Beefeaters appeared in the spotlight at the entry to the ballroom and, suddenly, there was Prince Harry! A PERFECT look-a-like wearing the complete uniform with medals and a gold sash whisked Mamie onto the dance floor amid

Vonita Reescer and Kevin Sullivan

swoons and squeals of delight. He was truly the spitting image of the Prince and dare I say, even cuter! They danced to "Foggy Day in London Town", of course! He then mingled and danced with attendees and took photos

John Cannon and Cary Frank

with anyone who asked. Tom Kehoe had discovered "Wade" in Oregon and flew him in for this grand occasion. Kehoe Designs completely outfitted him in this amazing costume that was spot on. Following her dance with the Prince, she took to the mic and serenaded us all, in perfect pitch, to "Time After Time." (See her sing HERE!) Talk about a perfect evening! No one wanted to leave the dance floor but, finally they did. But not Mamie! Mamie was the last to leave, of course, and chatted with Greg and Tom afterwards about how happy she was with the evening. I couldn't agree more. It was a night we'll never, ever forget. Guests in the crowd included Mark Olley, Sherry Fox, Maria and Bob Zec, John Cannon and Cary Frank, Peter and Karen Martino, Tracey DiBuono, Jean and Andy Antoniou, Lynda and Howard Silverman, Toni and Rick Canada, Heather and Bruce Ingram, Linda and Mark Heister, Stanley Paul, Vonita Reescer, Kevin

Mamie and Prince Harry (aka Wade)

Sullivan, Cathy and Bill Bartholomay, Leslie and Bob Zentner, Sherrill and John Bodine, Janet Owen, Bob Barr, Lynn and John McMahan, Jim Smith, Dori Wilson, Denise Allen, Susan Gohl, Myra and John Reilly, Sean Eshagy and his mom Carol Blaney Eshagy and so many more! The next day, I called Mamie to thank her for a wonderful evening and this is the message on her phone, "Life is a cabaret, Mamie here"…..What a perfect motto for a life well lived. Long may you reign Queen Mamie and here's to 100 more! We all love you!

The Schulmans! Kori, Maureen, Elana, Marc and Haley

Each year, beloved bandleader Stanley Paul hosts a benefit for his Stanley Paul-Raelene Mittelman Scholarship Fund at a private club in the Gold Coast. This year, on May 9, the deserving honorees were Maureen and

Eli's Slice mascot, Elana, Haley, Marc (the BIG cheese!), Maureen and Kori Schulman

Marc Schulman of Eli's Cheesecake fame (and so much more). Their list of philanthropic endeavors reads like an encyclopedia. Personally, I can't think of a nonprofit that they haven't touched/supported in one

Rick Kogan, me, Maureen Schulman, Bill Zwecker, Donna LaPietra and Marc Schulman

way or another, oftentimes with a donation of one of their giant, delicious cheesecakes! I was honored to be a speaker along with Chicago Tribune's Rick Kogan, Bill Zwecker and the Schulman's beautiful,

Marc, Maureen, Dr. Arthur Simon, Janet Ruchim, Dr. Michael Ruchim

articulate daughters Elana, Haley and Kori. The evening was expertly produced by Donna LaPietra who came attired in an Eli's Cheesecake t-shirt, of course! Her dedication to themes are legendary and this night was

Team Eli's

no exception. Photos of each speaker appeared onscreen with a funny cheesecake affiliation. A video of the couple documented their philanthropy and devotion to all things Chicago that

Grant DePorter and The Honorable Bruce Heyman

included wonderful, historical photos of the company and its founder Eli. I look at the Schulmans as members of everyone's family. This makes sense since they and

Linda Heister and Stanley Paul

their cheesecakes seem to have been a part of every major celebration and special occasion that I can remember. They even supplied cakes for former Presidents Clinton and Obama's inaugurations! The cake made its debut at the first Taste of Chicago in

(L to R) Haley, Kori and Elana wheel in the big cake

1980 and was an immediate hit. I also love this couple's amazing love story. I asked Maureen recently how she and Marc met. She said

Marsha Brenner and Dennis Minkel

that Marc was a bit of a player in college. In fact, when Maureen attended the national convention of her sorority as president (of course!) of Sigma Delta Tau, all the girls were discussing who they were dating. Maureen told them she had just started dating a guy named Marc Schulman. Girls from

Emcee/producer Donna LaPietra and Sherrill Bodine

Chicago, the suburbs and Denver, where Marc went to college, all said, "We are too!" Over the years, I've become an ardent admirer of this much loved couple, not just because of their delicious cheesecakes, but because of their great big hearts. I have covered their Happiness Club benefit on several occasions and asked its artistic director, Tanji Harper, for her thoughts on the Schulmans. "What I know of Marc and Maureen, after being blessed to work with them long enough to consider

Rich Melman, Marc Schulman, Bill Marovitz and Stanley Paul

them a second family, is that they have a profound calling to help others. They have used their ideas, network and resources to help hundreds of Chicago kids who have morphed into incredible adults because of the opportunities the Happiness Club gave them. I believe

Bill and Maria Smithburg

desserts are just a clever conduit for their true purpose–they are really ambassadors of generosity who live in service to others and influence the rest of the world to make positive changes too," she said. I couldn't agree more! A giant Eli's Cheesecake, bearing an image of the darling duo dressed in identical suits and ties, was wheeled into the ballroom by their beautiful daughters accompanied by the company's mascot, The Slice. Merriment ensued

With Chuck and Maureen Schulman

following Stanley's presentation to the Schulmans of a beautiful, Tiffany crystal award. Thank you Stanley for creating this wonderful benefit to honor your sister, Raelene Mittelman, who loved fashion and design. Through this fund, awards are made annually to college students from the Chicagoland area that are enrolled in a fashion design program. The scholarship monies are used as tuition for the study of fashion design in a Chicago area college or university. A perfect tribute to one of Chicago's "sweetest" couples! (Photos by Francis Son)

CZS WB member and 2018 Whirl chair Elisa Templeton and CZS board chair John Grube

Any event that has animal ambassadors greeting guests has my interest! And this is the case every year for the unique Brookfield Zoo Gala hosted by the Women's Board and

CZS pres/CEO Dr. Stuart Strahl; CZS board chair John Grube; CZS WB president Sasha Gerritson and CZS WB member and 2018 Whirl chair Elisa Templeton pictured with a 2019 Aston Martin DB11 provided by Aston Martin Glenview

Board of Trustees of the Chicago Zoological Society. The 37^th annual Whirl, chaired by Elisa Templeton, was held on April 28 and grossed more than $1.3 million! Proceeds will support the animals (including its darling ambassador squad) at the Zoo, as well as the Chicago Zoological Society’s conservation, education and community outreach programs. This year, more than 525 guests attended the gala, which was held on the Zoo's grounds. During the cocktail reception, guests had the opportunity to meet and take photos with many of the beloved animal ambassadors, including a

Joe Ahern, Ally Ahern, and CZS WB member Susan Ahern

Humboldt penguin, sulcata tortoise, binturong, serval, wallaby, toe-toed sloth, cape porcupine, tamandua, Burmese python, screech owl, red-tailed hawk, Major Mitchell’s cockatoo, great-horned owl, red knee tarantula, rabbits, and Guinea pigs. Whew! It was a real zoo in there! Additionally, Aston Martin of Glenview partnered with CZS on the event and had a beautiful car on display too! Themed Whirl of Fortune, the gala featured decor created by the Flower

CZS WB member and 2018 Whirl Chair, Elisa Templeton and John Templeton

Firm that featured stunning candelabras and large white plumage in tall vases along with oversized playing cards and dice on each table. The ceiling was illuminated in red, white, and black geometric designs. Food for Thought catered the evening’s three-course dinner. Later in the evening, attendees enjoyed dancing to the music of Maggie Speaks and trying their luck at blackjack, roulette, craps, and Texas hold’em poker. The black-tie gala also featured a live auction and paddle raise conducted by auctioneer Jason Lamaruouex. Items

CZS president/CEO Dr. Stuart Strahl; CZS WB member/ event chair Elisa Templeton and CZS WB president Sasha Gerritson

included the privilege of naming Brookfield Zoo’s male red panda; a trip of a lifetime to a private St. Lucia estate complete with three houses, personal chefs, and a driver and a gorgeous Palmiero-colored sapphire and diamond “pansy” pendant featuring 2.06 carats of diamonds complimented by pink, blue, and yellow sapphires totaling 4.23 carats donated by A. Marek Fine Jewelry. Since its inception in 1992, the Women’s Board has raised more than $30 million for the Society, presented nearly $200,000 in educational scholarships, and hosted tens of thousands of children at Brookfield Zoo through its outreach endeavors. (Photos by Kelly Tone and Jim Schuzz)

The entire cast in the finale

A star-studded lineup of Northwestern University School of Communication alumni turned the newly christened Ryan Fieldhouse into a rollicking, full-throttle reunion Saturday night (April 21), paying

Heather Headley

tribute in music and comedy to the school’s storied past while challenging the next generation of students to carry on the tradition. Emceed by “Late Show” host Stephen Colbert ’86, ’11 H, the variety show, “A Starry Night,” drew a crowd of more than 2,600, who were treated to performances by dozens of famous

Northwestern University football coach Pat Fitzgerald with Chicago Blackhawks owner Rocky Wirtz

alumni and current Northwestern students. "Tonight is a demonstration of the capability of our community and the love everybody has for Northwestern to make it happen, ” said Barbara O'Keefe, Dean of the School of Communication. The night began with a VIP reception and dinner before the performance, at which O’Keefe thanked the guests, students, stars and University faculty and staff for their work on the show over the past year. Much of the evening was spent reminiscing about the legendary professors who helped launch countless careers in theater, television

Stephanie March ('96), Northwestern president Morton Schapiro, Mimi Schapiro and Marg Helgenberger ('82)

and film and about the students who joined the celebrities both on stage and behind the scenes. After the dinner ended, the crowd settled in for the show, which kicked off with a pre-recorded video skit that featured Colbert and fellow alum Seth Meyers ’96, ’16 H. The two sat in wingback chairs in a faux Northwestern club with a fireplace behind them, set in New York City, riffing off each other. The pair joked about what actors are really thinking when they put on a listening face on stage — food. The two then pulled

Julio Ottino, Lisa Corrin and spouse Peter Erickson and Henry Bienen

out sub sandwiches, took hefty bites and began unintelligibly singing the Northwestern fight song. Emcee Colbert, who normally uses the opening monologue on his TV show to skewer President Trump, told the crowd he only wanted to talk about one president – Northwestern President Morton Schapiro, who was seated near the stage. “Everyone loves Morty,” Colbert said during his opening remarks. “Morty wears purple. Morty breathes purple. Morty is

Student Lucy Godinez performs "Breathe" from "In the Heights" with members of the Waa-Mu Show cast

purple.” There was plenty of Purple Pride throughout the evening — and plenty of laughter. “Morty’s done so much for this University,” Colbert continued. “He took something great and made it better. He’s like the guy who put cheese in a pizza crust.” The show also paid tribute to the late Garry Marshall ’56, a lifelong supporter of Northwestern and its students — and to other Northwestern-bred actors, directors, teachers and producers who formed the backbone of Chicago theater throughout the years. More than 300 students helped bring the show to life, including performers, producers, stagehands and others. Broadway star and Drama Desk Award winner Richard Kind ’78 talked about having drinks in an Evanston bar the night before rehearsals, where he

Toni-Marie Montgomery (Dean of the Henry & Leigh Beinen School of Music) and Rene Machado

spoke with theater professor Rives Collins about what students need to survive and thrive in the world of entertainment. He said it boiled down to one word: resilience. As he prepared to perform the song “Bounce” from the Stephen Sondheim musical “Road Show,” he turned to the students on stage with him to explain the importance of resilience – and enduring the inevitable ups and downs of their budding careers. He said that although he was facing the audience, he was really singing the song to the students. The variety show included a rousing duet, “Comin’ Together,” with alums Ana Gasteyer ’89 and Stephanie D’Abruzzo ’93, and a powerful medley by three of Broadway’s leading men: Gregg Edelman ’80 singing “Double Talk” from “City of Angels;” Brian d’Arcy James ’90, singing “You’ll Be Back” from the hit musical “Hamilton;” and Kind singing “I Wan’na Be Like You,” from “The Jungle Book.” Edelman and James joined Kind at the end of his number for a spirited finale by the trio. The show stopper was a performance by Tony and Grammy Award winner Heather Headley ’97 whose rendition of “Home” from

Northwestern University Pres. Morton Schapiro , Brian d’Arcy James ’90 and Mimi Schapiro. (Photo by Jasmine Shah)

“The Wiz” brought the crowd to its feet. The show was set inside the recently opened Ryan Fieldhouse which was transformed by the installation of a sprawling, sparkling stage that was designed by students in the MFA stage design program. The fieldhouse was bathed in purple with lights twinkling behind the performers mimicking a night sky. In his remarks, President Schapiro underscored the importance of both science and the humanities in making Northwestern a great university. “The magic happens in the labs. The teaching that happens in those labs changes the world,” the President said. “But without art, without literature, a person isn’t a full human being.” He paid tribute to the School of Communication’s past and present, and he saluted the school for what he said will be an even “more brilliant future.” (Photos by Jim Prisching)

Meghan's mother, Doria Ragland, was the only member of her family to attend the wedding. (Photo by Alexi Lubomirski)

I know not everyone is a Royal Wedding geek like me but, I have to say, I enjoyed each and every moment of Meghan and Harry's nuptials (twice). I even Tivo'd it in case I missed anything the first time around. I love seeing unbridled love and joy like this and think it's

The bride had 10 bridesmaids and pageboys including Princess Charlotte and Prince George. (Photo by Alexi Lubomirski)

sorely needed in these trying times. She, of course, made a beautiful bride although I was sad to see that she didn't wear the tiara that Princess Diana wore. But, they did pay homage to her in other ways–Prince

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex (Photo by Alexi Lubomirski)

Harry hand-picked flowers from their garden for her bouquet that included his late mom's favorite, forget-me-knots; Diana's sister Lady Jane Fellowes offered a reading; The hymn, "Guide Me, O Thy Great Redeemer", was played during Diana's funeral; All three of

Meghan and Harry, happy at last!

Diana's siblings were in attendance; And, of course, her engagement ring included some of Diana's stones. I thought it was just beautiful from beginning to end. I'm happy to see Diana's boys so happy–I believe she saved the Royal Family for sure with these two handsome, respectful, smart, giving sons. (See a clip of my favorite part of the wedding here!)

David Loor, Scott Ammarell, CJ Jensen, Craig Dannenbrink

Chicago House, the first organization in the Midwest to provide housing and support for people living with HIV and AIDS, celebrated its 32^nd Annual Spring Brunch and Fashion Show at the Harold Washington Library on Sunday, May 6^.“REVIVE! Rally on the Runway,” produced by Quenten Schumacher and sponsored by The Chris and Derek Bagley Family Foundation, featured designs from local Chicago boutiques and design studios and nationally recognized designers in an exciting runway presentation coordinated by ZZAZZ Productions. Over 360 guests enjoyed a three-course gourmet brunch from Inspired

Borris Powell, Nazia Zamani, Quenten Schumacher

Catering, champagne and signature cocktails, and a live auction with items that included a stay in a Tuscan Villa. NBC Chicago's Chris Hush emceed the event which also included a one-of-a-kind "Flower Market" that featured a variety

Dave Hackett, Todd Wood

of over 60+ fresh floral arrangements from different local floral designers. More than $170,000 was raised for Chicago House which was founded in 1985 at the height of the AIDS crisis. It has repeatedly demonstrated innovation and expansion to serve community members impacted by HIV/AIDS and LGBTQ marginalization.

Special Olympics Illinois hosted its 11th annual "Inspire Greatness" gala at the Hilton Chicago on April 20. The event welcomed over 800 guests and raised $1.2 million for the athletes of Special Olympics

Emcee Rob Johnson with Special Olympics athlete Bree Bogucki

Illinois. Bree Bogucki, the featured athlete, co-emceed the program with Rob Johnson (CBS-2). Guests enjoyed an 8 minute mini-documentary about her life that was

Auctioneer G-Man (Greg Dellinger) with bidder

followed by her powerful performance of "This Is Me" from the film, "The Greatest Showman." The event was co-chaired by Pat Canning and Frank T. Libby. Advocate Health Care and its medical staff were recognized for their dedication to healthy communities, Special Olympics Illinois and people with intellectual disabilities. The evening concluded with the athletes in attendance flooding the dance floor in united support. (This event precedes the Special Olympics 50th Anniversary being held here in Chicago– the birthplace of Special Olympics– this July 17-21).

Bruce and Michelle Hawver with Peggy and Dick Notebaert

The Chicago Academy of Sciences / Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum’s 20th annual Butterfly Ball on May 4 was a tremendous success, with over 650 guests attending this record-breaker that raised more than $2.3 million in support of the Nature

Jeff and Lisa Aronin, Trish Rooney, David Wolf and Meredith Bluhm Wolf

Museum’s science education initiatives that impact thousands of Chicago students and teachers. “Your support tonight leads to transformative programs for children, provides support

Reginaldo and Jennifer Montague

for teachers, and makes science come alive in Chicago’s schools," said Deborah Lahey, Nature Museum president/CEO. During the cocktail hour guests

Catherine and Patrick Dowd, co-chair

explored the Museum and experienced the ways the institution engages the community through education initiatives, conservation work, citizen science projects, and immersive exhibits. Highlights included meeting endangered Blanding’s turtles and touring the new exhibits Birds of Paradise: Amazing Avian Evolution and the self-curated live bird showcase, The Bird House. Co-chaired by Catherine and

Laura and Charlie Tribbett

Patrick Dowd, Holly and Matt Maloney and Trish Rooney, the event honored Annie and Greg Jones (Edgewater Funds) with its 5th annual Leadership in Science and Education Award. Judy Istock and Cathy Osborn were presented with the 2018 Butterfly Award, which celebrated their support and advocacy since the founding of the Nature Museum.

Matt Jacob, Revolution 1 owner/trainer just hangin' around with his cute sister, renowned makeup artist Nicole Jacob Delahanty!

I would like to spread the news about a brand new fitness gym and instructor! Many of you probably know renowned makeup artist Nicole Jacob Delahanty, but what you might not know is that she has an equally accomplished brother, Matt Jacob, who is making waves in the world of fitness! Here is his description of his new gym and mission, "We are a small

Nicole Jacob Delahanty working out at Revolution 1

group class, functional fitness facility with the goal of making everyone I meet to feel the way I do! Happy, healthy and fit! I train everyone here the same as I would (and do) train professional athletes which is way less extreme then it sounds. An athlete doesn't have to be the strongest

Matt Jacob, fit and fabulous!

person in the gym, often times they are not, but they also don’t have to be the fittest person on the planet either. These attributes are achieved through great care and thoughtful progressions. In a nutshell we work the ass and abs hard! Our preferred tools are kettlebells and body weight. In my opinion they are the safest and most effective," he said. Join the crowd and get fit at Revolution 1 Fitness located at 2248 W Irving Park RD ( info@revolution1fitness.com).

Samar Hawila of Israel (a program alum), Rick Rosenfeld (Hands of Peace exec. dir.), Gretchen Grad (Hands of Peace founder), Adam Heffez (a program alum) and Shira Gemer of Israel (a program alum)

Hands of Peace (HOP) enjoyed a magical evening at the Chicago Botanic Garden on May 6 to celebrate 15 years of developing peace-building and leadership skills in Israeli, Palestinian and American youth. The event raised over $150,000 and included moving talks from teens (now adults) whose lives were changed by

Tom Aldrich (chair of the Hands of Peace Board of Directors) and his wife Karen

HOP. Featured speakers included Samar Hawila of Israel (a program alum); Rick Rosenfeld (Hands of Peace executive director), Gretchen Grad (Hands of Peace founder), Adam Heffez (a program alum) and Shira Gemer of Israel (a program alum). This

Julia and Tim Sanborn and Kathryn Bettis (a member of the Hands of Peace Board of Directors)

interfaith organization empowers young people to raise their voices as leaders of change. The nonprofit was created in the Chicago suburbs in 2002 by three women–one Christian, one Jewish, and one Muslim—who shared the conviction

Hands of Peace program alumni Nabaa Khan, Mackenzie Lyons, Sam Weinbert, Sarah Fox, Gabrielle Morrison, Mohammed Manzoor, Jared Hoffman and Brigid Murphy

that peace could be nurtured, person-by-person. Hands of Peace is unique in that Middle East teens are hosted by local families — providing a meaningful opportunity for cross-cultural exchange. They have also embarked on an alumni program to the Middle

Gene Hara, Jami Brenner and Lorne Hara.

East, where American teens have the opportunity to spend time in Israel/Palestine, hosted by local HOP families there. "HOP is a program that gives you something to hold on to. It gives you friends that you never thought you would have and it teaches you about yourself and how to listen, feel compassion, and how to disagree but still create such a caring friendship," said Adi, a Jewish Israeli youth member.

Save the date! On Saturday, July 14, we say goodbye to a Chicago icon, a living landmark, Michael Kutza, as he retires after 55 years as leader/founder of the Chicago International Film Festival. I know his next chapter will be as exciting as his first with a book

Colin Farrell, Liv Ullman and Festival founder/artistic director Michael Kutza

already in the works! The gala evening will be held at the Loews Hotel with proceeds supporting Cinema/Chicago's year-round programs including the CIFF, the Chicago

Michael Kutza with Sophia Loren

International Television Festival, free CineYouth Festival, free International Screenings Program and Education Program. The one and only Donna

Actress Jane Fonda and Michael Kutza (Photo by Timothy M. Schmidt)

LaPietra (Kurtis Productions) will produce the fun-filled evening that will be loaded with surprises and special guests. I'm honored to be a co-chair with Chaz Ebert and Maria Pappas so please join us to celebrate, thank and say goodbye/hello to Michael, the man who turned Chicago into the Hollywood of the Midwest! (For tickets and more info, click here!)

Mira and her hero husband, Bogdan Horoszowski, with daughter Yvette Klobuchar

A big heartfelt congratulations to Polish war hero Bogdan "Mosquito" Horoszowski (husband of Mira Couture's Mira and father to Yvette Klobuchar).

Bogdan "Mosquito" Horoszowski with his proud daughter Yvette Klobuchar

Bogdan was awarded the Commander's Cross with the Star of the Order of Merit of the Republic of Poland by the President of the Republic of Poland, Andrzej Duda. The event took place on May 19 during the 100th anniversary of Poland Regaining Independence celebration at Millennium Park. Daughter Yvette proudly sang both the Polish National Anthem and the Star Spangled Banner during the festivities. Congrats to all!

BJ Murray with Michael Jordan at a Chicago hotspot

Many of you may remember BJ Murray, the man who controlled the VIP Rooms at some of Chicago's hottest clubs in the '70s, including the Limelight. He was in town recently for a fundraiser, "Limelight to Lyme-Fight," to help him raise awareness and funds in his fight against Lyme disease. On May 26, 2013, BJ entered NY's Lenox Hill Hospital almost dead on arrival. Over the

BJ Murray battles Lyme Disease and recently came to town to raise awareness and funds

previous six months, he'd visited 8 ER rooms, where a total of 28 doctors had misdiagnosed him for everything from MS and Parkinson's to lupus, fibromyalgia, ALS, hepatitus C, meningitis and encephalitis. At the last hospital, he was asked if he'd ever been bitten by a tick and, with that, the truth started to emerge. The fundraiser featured 4 keynote Lyme disease experts and assorted musical guests. Good luck on this tough journey BJ! (If you would like to donate, click here).

Melissa Forman returns to the airwaves May 29! Yippee!!

Missy is BACK! Former co-host of WCIU's "You & Me", Melissa Forman has returned to her roots at 93.9 WLIT FM! Starting May 29, we will be able to hear her sweet voice every morning, Monday through Friday, from 6 -10 am as host of the popular morning show! Congrats with love Missy! (To read Robert Feder's article, click here!)

Beware of "Resting Squint Face"! Thanks to MyEyeDr., you might catch an ad during a binge-watching session or thumb through your social feed to notice there's a new "disorder" plaguing those with poor vision: Resting Squint Face! It's a perpetual look of anger and distrust that affects the relationships of millions of Americans! RSF can strike even the happiest of people causing unwarranted drama. You might feel the need to rush to a plastic surgeon, but fear not! You could just be near-sighted, far-sighted or screen-fatigued and are making the face in an attempt to see! MyEyeDr. has the cure: a professional eye exam and a great selection of stylish eyewear all in one place. Check out this cute campaign below that pokes fun at the misunderstandings brought on by RSF without poking fun at eye health! (For more info about MyEyeDr., click here!)

With St. Jane's Joe Aguilera

I had an amazing tour of the St. Jane Hotel recently and the wow factor, even at this stage was unmistakable. Located in the famed Carbide & Carbon Building at 230 N. Michigan, the plans are so chic with lots of surprises for lucky guests. I could easily make my home in the elegant room I toured that featured all matte black walls, deep crown moldings, an exquisite chandelier over a sleek marble dining table and windows everywhere overlooking our magnificent city. Special thanks to Joe Aguilera (EVP of Sales + Revenue Management), Emily Cornelious (Director of Sales & Marketing) and Bob Shelley (VP of Hotel Operations & General Manager) for the tour of your very special Aparium Hotel Group property! I can't wait to party in that gilded Tower! Opening in June!

Ethan Hawke will be the Renaissance Award recipient at the Gene Siskel Film Center gala

The Gene Siskel Film Center of the School of the Art Institute of Chicago will honor Academy Award winner Ethan Hawke with its Renaissance Award on Thursday, June 7, at the Ritz-Carlton Chicago. For tickets and more info, click here!

Check out Candid Candace TV too

That's it! Another jam-packed edition of Candid Candace, reporting from the front lines so you don't have to! Lol! I hope you've enjoyed it as much as I love writing about all the good stuff in Chicago and beyond! If you're not a subscriber, please click here and join in the fun!

Love, as always,
Candace

P.S. During the Royal Wedding, there were so many times I wished I were a lip-reader! Well, the BBC found someone to translate Meghan and Harry's more intimate moments during the ceremony! Watch!

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Filed under Chicago, Culture, Current Affairs, Fashion, Film, Food and Drink, Games, Music, Religion, Science, Sports, Television

May 9, 2018 · 9:53 am

BIG GREEN GALA SUPPORTS LEARNING GARDENS IN CHICAGO PUBLIC SCHOOLS

LYRIC'S RECORD-BREAKING WINE AUCTION; F.A.M.E. COMPETITION SPOTLIGHTS LOCAL TALENT; UNICEF GALA; GIORDANO/SAKS SHOW COMBINES FASHION AND DANCE; MARYVILLE HONORS COMMUNITY LEADERS; AMERICA'S BEAUTY SHOW AND WHAT I LEARNED; PETER AND RMHC'S SPARKLING DINNER; ADLER'S WOMEN IN SCIENCE LUNCHEON; PORCHLIGHT MUSIC THEATRE'S TALENT-FILLED ICONS GALA; CELEBRATING CHINA AT 40TH IWA GALA; NORTHWESTERN OSHER CENTER BENEFIT; SPACE 519 OPENS BIG; HOUSEWARES CHARITY FOUNDATION GALA; HEROES HONORED AT FRIENDS OF ISRAEL DEFENSE FORCES DINNER; SAYING GOODBYE TO MARTY; CHICAGO TRIBUNE'S BRAND NEW FOOD BOWL; SOME OF MY FAV EVENTS!; THIS & THAT; VIDEOS AND SO MUCH MORE!!!

Robin Poulsen (Gotham Greens), Maggie Hughes (Big Green Chicago), Maye Musk (Kimbal and Elon's mom and supermodel) and Jennifer Tengelsen

The Big Green Gala, a private event hosted by Kimbal Musk (brother of Elon and son of supermodel Maye Musk) and Al Freidman, was held in the Ivy Room at Tree Studios on April 18. The event

Kimbal Musk and Sabrina Gracias

benefited Big Green's work building a healthier future for Chicago's kids through its "Chicago 200" campaign. This initiative aims to build and support 200 Learning Gardens in Chicago Public Schools by July 2020, working with each of the

Diane Primo, Linda Johnson Rice, Maye Musk and Amy Rule (Linda's Insta, follow her!)

schools to implement the non-profit's garden-based, healthy eating programming. Big Green was founded in 2011 by Musk and Hugo Matheson. Kimbal and Hugo had co-founded The Kitchen Restaurant Group together in 2004 and were

Kimbal and Christiana Musk with auction winner of "Not a Flamethrower"

supporting local school garden initiatives through their restaurants. They were inspired by the way school gardens can help kids increase their preference for nutritious foods, develop healthier responses to stress,

Kimbal Musk and Linda Johnson Rice (Linda's Insta–follow her!)

and improve their academic performance. They wanted to find a way to achieve that same kind of local impact at scale, so that children all over the country could reap the benefits of a thriving school garden. Enter their big idea, Big Green, created

Maggie Hughes of Big Green Chicago, Starr Brantley and Katina Makris from Laura Ward Elementary Learning Garden School

as a replicable, scalable school garden solution. The first Learning Garden was built in Denver where it still thrives today. The program currently reaches over 250,000 students around the country each day and now they seek to accelerate growth and deepen

Ivy Room at Tree Studios

impact by expanding Learning Gardens and programming to ten total regions by 2020, reaching 500,000 students in 1,000 schools! The $6.1 million effort in Chicago will be the largest School Garden initiative in the United States serving over 30% of all schools in CPS. Way to go

Co-chairs Keith Goldstein and Nancy Searle (Photo by Jaclyn Simpson)

Kimbal! Elon's got nothin' on you!

The Lyric Opera Wine Auction was hosted by the Women's Board of the Lyric Opera of Chicago on April 14. This highly anticipated triennial event celebrated a milestone 30th anniversary and was co-chaired by Nancy Searle and Keith Goldstein. The

Bill and Cathy Osborn, Miles White, Rick Waddell (Photo by Todd Rosenberg)

legendary first-growth Bordeaux, Château Margaux, was the Honored Guest of Wine Auction 2018, and honoree Shirley Welsh Ryan was recognized for

Amelia and Alejandro Silva (Photo by Jaclyn Simpson)

her extraordinary vision in overseeing the first auction during her tenure as president 30 years ago and for her ongoing dedication to Lyric and musical expression throughout Chicago. The auction drew nearly 500 guests from around

David and Sheila Ormesher, Shirley and Pat Ryan (Photo by Jaclyn Simpson)

the world and was held in the historic Lyric Opera House, built in 1929 and renowned for its beautiful Art Deco/Art Nouveau décor. The event commenced with a reception and silent auction in the Daniel F. and Ada L. Rice Grand Foyer,

Jacqueline, Cheryl, Brandi and Erica Sandner (Photo by Dan Rest)

followed by an elegant dinner and live auction on The Ken Pigott Stage of the Ardis Krainik Theatre,

John Krehbiel Jr. and Karen Z. Gray-Krehbiel (Photo by Dan Rest)

specially expanded and decorated for the occasion. The setting underscored the Wine Auction’s raison d’être, which is to support the productions and community-engagement activities of the internationally acclaimed opera company. Attendees enjoyed the opportunity to bid on a record breaking 66 live auction lots and 138 silent lots showcasing

Alexandra Petit-Mentzelopoulos and Thibault Pontallier of Chateau Margaux (Photo by Jaclyn Simpson)

rare wines, luxury travel experiences, and amazing dining packages. The auction boasted over 1,000 bottles of wine, including 19 100-point perfect wines, making the

Stage decor by Lyric's set design and production team (Photo by Todd Rosenberg)

occasion a true prize for many. The stunning array of curated wines, luxury items, unique dining experiences, and exquisite travel packages was expertly auctioned live by Michael Davis and Ben Ferdinand of the venerable Hart Davis Hart Wine Co. Since its 1988 inception, Lyric’s Wine Auction has raised over $11 million. The proceeds go directly to Lyric’s annual campaign, which supports the world-renowned opera company’s activities.

Sandra Cordova Micek, Geoffrey Baer

"On Broadway: A Celebration of WTTW and WFMT," the organization’s annual fundraiser, was held May 2, at the Renée Crown Public Media Center, the organization’s production center on the northwest side of Chicago. This event, co-chaired

Robyn Hurder

by Renée and Lester Crown, marked the debut of WTTW and WFMT’s newly minted President/CEO, Sandra Cordova Micek, who assumed the role on May 1. Approximately 400 of the city’s civic, business, and philanthropic leaders enjoyed cocktails and a performance, emceed by WTTW on-air personality Geoffrey Baer, that

Geoffrey Baer, Sandra Cordova Micek, Renee Crown and Peter McNitt

featured Tony and Grammy Award winner Heather Headley, Broadway star Robyn Hurder and principal dancer Lucas Segovia.

Lucas Segovia

Other performers included singers Devin DeSantis and Courtney Mac, and Anastacia Holden, plus tap dancers and a choir of upcoming theatre artists aged 8-16. The show was directed and choreographed by Rachel Rockwell and Roberta

Debbie and Reese Marcusson with Sandra Cordova Micek

Duchak. Following the performance, there was an elegant dinner in a tent under the stars with cuisine provided by Jewell Events Catering, and after dinner, guests enjoyed coffee and Swirlz champagne cupcakes; floral centerpieces were by Kehoe Designs.

Heather Headley

At the end of the evening, the centerpieces were donated to Random Acts of Flowers for mothers in neonatal intensive care units throughout the city. The event raised more than $1 million to support the quality programming on WTTW and WFMT. (The lead sponsor of On Broadway: A Celebration of WTTW and WFMT was BMO Harris Bank. The theme was inspired by the upcoming national PBS series "10 that changed america," a production of WTTW Chicago hosted by Geoffrey Baer, premiering nationally on July 10.

F.A.M.E. founder Lily Liu (center) with judges David O'Connor, Denise Tomasello and Michael McStraw

The 7th annual F.A.M.E. (Foundation of Artists Mentored in Entertainment) was held at the Chicago Yacht Club Belmont on April 28. A sellout crowd enjoyed performances by 10 talented young singers and dancers who competed before a panel of judges for Best Dancer and Best Singer. Comedian Kelsie Huff

Lily Liu with the outstanding emcee/comedian Kelsie Huff!

(creator of "The Kates", an all female comedy showcase) was a sensation as emcee and kept the program moving along all while keeping the crowd in stitches. (Catch her

Past winners Rebecca Brunner and Miriam-Rose are interviewed by Kelsie Huff

performing all over Chicago if you can!) I was thrilled to be a judge alongside David O'Connor (nationally renowned casting agent), Denise Tomasello (Chicago cabaret queen) and Michael McStraw (executive director of Giordano Dance Chicago and Jazz Dance World Congress). The competition was fierce as each and every

Audrey Allen, Rita Simon and friend.

performer was unique and so very talented. Exciting dance duo Derrick and Teh'ray performed an original piece that involved moves no one had ever seen before. Dancer Dakota Allesandrini performed to "You Raise Me Up" and singer Brian Jackson performed a powerful rendition of "Let It Be." In the end, the winners were dancer Haley Peterson and singer Andrew

F.A.M.E. 2018 competition winners Haley Peterson and Andrew Johnston

Johnston, who loves the art from so much he performs on the street! Additional highlights included performances by past winners, dancer Miriam-Rose and singer Rebecca Brunner, The Voice Season 13, Team Blake contestant. (See her incredible performance of "Rise Up" here!) F.A.M.E. founder Lily Liu (Lily's Talent)

Excited guests

conceived the nonprofit in 2010 because she saw so many talented artists who weren't able to follow their dreams due to their financial circumstances. She said her mission was to recognize this talent and support them so they don't give up. "We need to keep Chicago alive and healthy in the arts and entertainment," she said. Amen to that Lily! Thanks for all you do! (For more info, click here)

Managing Director, Midwest UNICEF USA Elizabeth McCostlin

The Midwest Regional Office of UNICEF USA hosted its 11th annual UNICEF Gala Chicago at The Geraghty on April 28 to raise funds for UNICEF’s work to save and improve the

CEO/pres. UNICEF USA Caryl M. Stern and Helenka Pantaleoni Award Recipient, Special Olympics Gold Medalist Lucy Meyer.

lives of the world’s most vulnerable children. Over 500 guests enjoyed a seated dinner, remarks by Caryl Stern (president/CEO UNICEF USA); Beth McCostlin (managing director of the Midwest Regional Office) and gala co-chairs Sheilah Burnham and Kim Cornell. Entertainment was provided by Musicality and the Ken Arlen Evolution Orchestra. Notable attendees included Vice Chair: Hilary

Susie and Joe Silich, board pres. for the U.S. Fund for UNICEF Midwest Region Board of Directors

Scott; Auction Chair: Camille Julmy; Gala Committee: Amy Brown, Bill Dietz, Jude Fitzgerald, Mary Lou Giustini, Kathy Lai, Nicole Lazaroff, Emily Merjan, Ashley Prasad, Will Seibold,

Event co-chair Kim Cornell, CEO/pres. UNICEF USA Caryl Stern, event co-chair, Midwest Board member Sheilah Burnham and managing director, Midwest UNICEF USA Elizabeth McCostlin

Susan Sholl and Susie Silich; and additional guests: Joe Dombrowski (Mr. D – UNICEF Kid Power Champion), Ashish Prasad, Rob Brown, Joseph Silich, Tina and Byron Trott, Lisa Giacosa, Jennifer Glaspie, Kyle Moles, Latha Sundaram, Iliana Alvarenga, Sarah de Blasio, Nev Fazlioski, Jeff Feste, Margaret Graver LeFevour, Andy Meyer, Catherine Jones, Ali Parker, Samuel Gage, Zach Von Ahnen and others.

Maryville board chair Richard A. Devine, Illinois Supreme Court Justice Anne Burke and Maryville executive director Sister Catherine.

Maryville's Guardian Medallion Award Gala honored community leaders William and Jean O’Neill with the 2018 Guardian Medallion Award and Illinois Supreme Court Justice Anne M. Burke with the Spirit of Maryville Award on April 20 at

Sister Catherine Ryan, Maryville exec. dir. Jean O'Neill, William O'Neill, Maryville boad chair Richard Devine

Morgan Manufacturing. The O’Neills were honored for their decades-long support of Maryville and, in particular, for their support of Maryville’s Center for Children on Chicago’s Northwest Side. Justice Burke was recognized for her part in enriching the lives of

Father Michael Shanahan performs the invocation

thousands of children as a co-founder of the Special Olympics which celebrates its 50^th anniversary this year. For 23 years, the O’Neills have given generously to Maryville,” said Sister Catherine M. Ryan, O.S.F., Maryville’s executive director. “They have touched the lives of countless children and families.” The recipient of the Spirit of Maryville Award Illinois Justice Anne M. Burke “opened the doors to sport for thousands of children,” Sister Ryan said.

Nena Ivon with her models and the Giordano dancers

A first-time collaboration between Giordano Dance Chicago and Saks Fifth Avenue (Michigan Ave.) was a sellout on Thursday, April 26, at the Vista (345 E. Upper Wacker Dr.) The fashion show was expertly

Dancer Devin Buchanan and Jackie Bucksbaum

curated by Nena Ivon and featured spring 2018 trends with segments titled "Logomania", "Transparency", "Embellish Me", "Tropical", "The Kitten Heel" and more. A highlight of the event

Fashion show coordinator Nena Ivon and Dominick DiFrisco

was the opening segment with the handsome, talented men of Giordano Dance who performed "Vogue" with boundless energy and enthusiasm, a company trademark. Artistic director Nan Giordano was in

Susan Carlins greets a supporter

attendance following foot surgery looking elegant in silver boots and a silver-topped cane (we all know nothing can keep this dynamo down!) Stylish guests in attendance included Susan and Joel Carlins, Susan Mazzoni, Dominick DiFrisco, Randy and Steven Fifield,

The Fabulous Giordano Dance Chicago dancers!

Mark Olley, Mary Lasky, Saks' John Bourgeois and Matt Brown (Saks VP/GM), Giordano's Michael McStraw and Cesar Salinas, Marie Mancuso, Kip Helverson and many others. The evening's proceeds benefited Giordano Dance! Oh what a night!!!! Fingers crossed, it will become an annual event!

Thanks to Dori Wilson, PR whiz extraordinaire, I had the opportunity to visit this year's America's Beauty Show at McCormick Place. I hadn't been in a number of years

It's all about color!

and wasn't sure what to expect, but was happy to see that it was a veritable 3-ring circus of beauty! There was something for everyone! Hair trends focused on bright,

Beauty experts Jordyn and Brenda Arelano

unusual, definitely not natural, hair coloring. Every kind of makeup you could think of, at wholesale prices, lured lines of buyers especially at the Morphe makeup brush booth! Beauty expert Brenda Arelano told me it was because of social media since these tools are used in so many YouTube/Insta makeup

And yes, there were cowboys!

tutorials. My personal favorite was the Redken booth, where it was most certainly a PARTEEE, right down to the cowboy dancing in boots and black, sequined undies with a guitar slung over his shoulder for effect. He and the models

So many cool sights at the show!

engaged the crowd in a line dance with not a product in sight–the party was more than enough to bring awareness to the brand! Two models stood stationary in black and silver gowns holding torches high above their heads ala the Statue of Liberty…..I didn't want to leave. Next year's show, although open only to industry peeps, will be held April 27 thru the 29th. I hope Redken returns….maybe with another cowboy or two?

Dr. Carsi Hughes (WISS chair), Nathalea Espinoza, Meg Sauer (WB president)

Dr. Carsi Hughes (WISS chair), Nathalea Espinosa, Meg Sauer (WB president)

The Adler Planetarium Women’s Board held its annual Women in Space Science Award Celebration on April 24, at the Drake Hotel. The event, hosted by Meg Sauer, Women’s Board president, and Dr. Carsi Hughes, event chair, honored Dr. Rosaly Lopes, a senior research scientist at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory and first female editor-in-chief of Icarus, a scientific journal

Michelle B. Larson (Adler president/CEO), Dr. Rosaly Lopes, Nathalea Espinosa

dedicated to the field of planetary science. For sixteen years the Women’s Board has recognized trailblazing women in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) with the goal of inspiring young women to pursue careers in these disciplines. More than 350 guests enjoyed a keynote address by Dr. Lopes, who discussed her career path, highlighting findings from her discovery of 71 active volcanoes on lo-Jupiter’s fourth largest moon during the Galileo Flight Project and her

Ellie Glick, Dr. Rosaly Lopes, Laura Glick

work on the Cassini voyage. She shared the inspiration she found along the way, and said that the most important work a scientist does is to inspire the next generation. A highlight of the event was a student program that immediately followed the

Meg Sauer, Nathalea Espinosa, Dr. Rosaly Lopes, Dr. Carsi Hughes

luncheon and held at the Adler. Approximately 250 young women from Chicago-area schools enjoyed an inspiring talk and Q&A opportunity with Dr. Lopes and an afternoon of engaging STEM workshops with Adler educators and volunteers. Dr. Lopes' many awards and recognitions include the American Astronomical Society’s Carl Sagan medal for excellence in communicating science to the public and a mention in the Guinness Book of World Records.

Chris Carter, Memphis choreographer and assistant director, executive director Jeannie Lukow, Guy Adkins Award Honoree Brenda Didier and artistic director Michael Weber.

Porchlight Music Theatre's 2018 ICONS Gala brunch was held on April 15 at the Ritz Carlton, setting new attendance and fundraising records! The event,

Tap dancer Matt Crowle performs “A Shine on Your Shoes.”

chaired by Tamara Sim, included a variety of performances from Chicago’s leading talents celebrating the nearly 80-year career of Fred Astaire and the presentation of the 2018 Guy Adkins Award for Excellence in the Advancement of Music Theatre in Chicago to Brenda Didier. David Fiorello,

Guy Adkins Awardee Brenda Didier and her mom Jean’ne Didier

pianist and vocalist, served as music director for the afternoon opening with the classic Fred Astaire hit song “Top Hat, White Tie and Tails." Executive Director

Porchlight Music Theatre Board of Directors

Jeannie Lukow welcomed the crowd and shared highlights of the past season including the launch of Porchlight’s youth “Write Your Own Musical” summer camp and the move to its new home at Ruth Page Center for the Arts.

ICONS Gala benefit chair/board member Tamara Sims with board member Michelle Cucchiaro.

Director Michael Weber followed with a review of the incredible life of this year’s ICON honoree Fred Astaire. He introduced multi Jeff Award-winning Matt Crowle for an audience pleasing and astonishing tap dance performance to “A Shine on

Chris and Diane Whatton with Rhona and the Honorable Julian Frazin.

Your Shoes.” Weber then presented The Guy Adkins Award for the Advancement of Music Theatre in Chicago to director/choreographer Didier. Her honest, heartfelt speech showed why she is so beloved by the community. She shared stories of

Jamey Lundblad and Bill Melamed

growing up a tomboy and then discovering her love of dance, a love that was and is still inspired by her mother Jeanne, her late father and her husband Mike, but especially by her brother Darryl who lost his battle to cancer. Didier’s own battle with

Arlen Rubin and wife Elaine Cohen (sponsors of Porchlight Music Theatre’s New Faces Sing Broadway series)

breast cancer strengthened her resolve to appreciate each moment given to her. Before brunch was served, the audience delighted in another dance performance, this time to “Begin the Beguine” from Broadway Melody of 1940, performed by Michael George and Joe Capstick. Two virtuoso dance couples, Dina DiCostanzo and Tammy Mader and Steven Spanopoulos and Tedd Greenwood, then danced to

Alex Stoykov, Phillip Neal, board member Jim Jensen and Wesley Hentges.

“Change Partners.” Bill Ingraham, artistic associate and board of directors alum, and Porchlight alum Keeley Vasquez joined Greg Dellinger (G-Man! One of my favorite auctioneers!) for the live auction. The afternoon ended with James Earl Jones II, who is currently starring in Porchlight Music Theatre’s Memphis at the Ruth Page Center, giving the audience a sample of the 2018-2019 season by singing “Is Anybody There?” from 1776.

With the much loved Peter Martino

I was thrilled to organize a wonderful get-together/dinner between famed and beloved jeweler Peter Martino and the Ronald McDonald House Women's Board at Lurie Children's. The event took place at the elegant Marchesa Chicago on Tuesday, April 24 and was packed with over 30

A spectacular centerpiece!

WB members and friends. Peter had meticulously and beautifully arranged his exquisite jewels as centerpieces on each table, inviting the guests to try on and ooh and aah at will. Holly Buckendahl (RMHC-CNI CEO) looked beautiful in a butterfly earring and ring set as did Nina Mariano who sported an eye-popping

Holly Buckendahl, RMHC-CNI CEO, wears the jools very, very well!

diamond, sapphire and aquamarine ring. It was a wonderful opportunity to get together with like-minded people in an atmosphere like this and all agreed, it was a great success. Peter donated a portion of the sales to the charity and even offered to donate a special piece for RMHC's Annual Gala that took place on May 5. Peter is someone you should know who devotes a large amount of time and money to many, many charities across the country. Hats off and jewels on Peter! Thanks for all you do!

Andy Salk, event chair Elizabeth Jia, Marian and Jeff Jacobson

The 40th IWA (International Women Associates) Gala celebrated China in grand style with the theme, "China, Love Through the Dynasties" and was held at the Peninsula on April 28. The event attracted over 300 guests including several

Doe Thornburg, Liu Jun and Marian Jacobson

dignitaries: Liu Jun, Deputy Consul General of China, Naoki Ito (Consul General of Japan), Umut Acar (Consul General of Turkey), Andre King (Honorary Consul Barbados), Olavi Goos (Consul of Finland), Marvin Brustin (Honoary Consul of Nepal) and Karen Abuzayd, UN Commissioner and IWA's 2015 Woman Extraordinaire). The evening

Bill and Ethel Gofen with Elizabeth Jia

began with specialty cocktails, "The Last Emperor" and "Empress Love" and an opening "Lion Dance." 12 courses, prepared by Shanghai Terrace Chef Elmo Han, were served family-style on lazy susans with each course named after an ancient Chinese love poem.

Bruce Dong, Junlan Guo and Jane Wang

During dinner, the Chinese Music Ensemble from Northern Illinois University performed. The gala was chaired for the 2nd year by beautiful Elizabeth Jia, who even engaged her mother in the evening's activities! She brought 300 chopsticks with panda holders all the way from Beijing for the crowd as souvenirs! Guests were also gifted with copies of the China Gala Book, 98 pages that featured the organization's members (or their mothers) and their personal stories of China during the last century.

Jim Karas, IM Aware Advisory Council President

Nearly 450 of Chicago’s top health enthusiasts, business professionals and philanthropists came together in celebration of medical advances and research during the 4th annual Northwestern Medicine Osher Center for

Eileen Bush, Julie Kaplan, Pam Sage and Danielle Willerman

Integrative Medicine Benefit, held at the Four Seasons Hotel April 18. The signature Benefit was held in honor of the Osher Center’s mission to amplify conventional medicine by practicing innovative, integrative and personalized treatments. Benefit keynote

Molly Trager, Carrie Lannon, Marigale Walsh and Beverly Holcomb

and health industry pioneer, Tieraona Low Dog captivated event guests with a speech on the importance of integrative medicine and the latest scientific

Victoria Poindexter and Joseph Gayner

breakthroughs. Low Dog served as the ideal candidate to speak on this topic, having served as the founding director of Medicine Lodge Ranch. Guests also heard from Benefit Chair and AzCIM Certified Integrative Health Coach and Lifestyle Practitioner, Karen Malkin

Leslie Glazier, Stephen Miller and Carolyn Zaslaw

who addressed how food is our greatest revitalizer, preventer and healer. “We were thrilled to host an event where guests experienced first-hand Food As Medicine, as every dish

Elizabeth Sacks, Jerry Freedman and Dorene Marcus

was packed with anti-inflammatory nutrients that promote health and vitality,” said Malkin. “Nutrition is a cornerstone of integrative medicine and at the Osher Center, we are committed to helping individuals reach their optimal health.” Additionally,

Jim Karas, Kanwar Singh and Wendy Berger

celebrity trainer and IM Aware Advisory Council President, handsome Jim Karas was a presenter and Executive Director at the Osher Center, Melinda Ring,

Nana Adae and John Kane

offered information on how philanthropy supports the mission of the Osher Center. The Center is the University’s only official center for integrative medicine providing consults, primary care, traditional Chinese medicine, chiropractic, naturopathic medicine, body and energy work, health psychology, mind-body medicine, nutrition counseling, smoking cessation and a diverse array of wellness classes.

HCF honorees and co-chair Phil Brandl

The housewares industry came together to “Unite, Celebrate, Support” at the Housewares Charity Foundation’s (HCF) 21^st annual gala on March 12 at

Co-chairs Phil Brandl and Herb Landsman

Navy Pier with nearly 1000 guests in attendance. Held annually in conjunction with the International Home + Housewares Show, this year’s gala honored Shelley Salomon, VP Home, Pets and Toys at Amazon, with the Lifetime

Leonard Lauder

Humanitarian Award; Bill Dillard III, senior VP, was honored with the Humanitarian of the Year Award and Georg J.

The Covergirls

Riedel, owner Riedel, was presented with the Lifetime Achievement Award. The 2018 theme, “Unite, Celebrate, Support,” reflected the philosophy and mission of the HCF, which brings the housewares

Phil Brandl and Tony Mantuano

industry together to unite and promote its philanthropic image, raise funds for charities and celebrate the honorees who are selected for their humanitarian support and exceptional leadership. The

Abe Conlon

event, co-chaired by Phil Brandl (president/CEO of the International Housewares Association) and Herb Landsman (executive VP of merchandising at TJX Companies), featured eight tasting stations hosted by James Beard Foundation chefs including Jimmy Bannos Jr., Rick Bayless, Abraham Conlon, Gale Gand, Sarah Grueneberg, Beverly Kim

Dave and Christie Dolan

and Johnny Clark, Bruce Sherman and Lee Wolen. Dinner featured a three-course meal designed by Tony Mantuano (chef/partner, Spiaggia Restaurant). Proceeds from the event, over $1.8 million, benefited the Breast Cancer Research Foundation (BCRF), the HCF’s legacy charity. Since the first gala in 1998, HCF has raised more than $50 million and has been credited with donating more than $28 million to BCRF.

Tastemakers/Space 519 founders Lance Lawson (L) and Jim Wetzel (R) and friend.

SPACE 519, one of Chicago’s top fashion and lifestyle retail destinations, relocated and opened as an expanded flagship store on April 5 on the ground floor of The Seneca at 200 E. Chestnut Street. At 5,000 square feet, the new location doubled the space of the current store

Two cuties, Amanda Puck and Marc Sievers!

and featured its signature mix of apparel, accessories, home, apothecary and gift offerings, along with a 40-person sit-down restaurant called The Lunchroom and an all-day coffee café. The grand

Deirdre Pursel and handsome friend

opening attracted nearly 200 guests on April 19 and was a veritable who's who of Chicago who mixed and mingled among the stylish offerings, enjoying champagne, light bites and of course, SHOPPING! “For more than seven years, my partner Lance [Lawson] and I have traveled 10 months out of the year to assure that SPACE 519 continues to serve as the ‘go-

With Samantha Saifer Berngard and Whitley Bouma Herbert

to’ destination for savvy clients who appreciate fresh takes on the every day,” says Jim Wetzel, co-owner of SPACE 519. “This expansion was the obvious next step in our evolution as a lifestyle brand and will allow us to share

The always darling Graham Kostic!

more hard-to-find brands with our established clients and those who are yet to come.” As part of this growth, SPACE 519 will open an in-house sit-down restaurant, The Lunchroom, featuring a vegetable-forward California cuisine-style lunch and weekend brunch menu centering on soups, salads, sandwiches and other classic lunch/brunch dishes.

CS Mag's always stylish Jeremy Bentivegna with cute friends

The menu will focus on freshness, creativity and locally-sourced ingredients and feature rotating weekly specials. Wine and beer will also be served. “We have traveled all over Europe and North America searching out many of the world’s best lunch cafés to gather inspiration for our first-ever restaurant concept,” says Lawson. “The Lunchroom represents the final piece in our long-held dream of bringing a fully integrated European-style concept store to Chicago.”

Wounded IDF Sgt. Elad Horwitz, who survived a gunshot to the head during 2014 Operation Protective Edge in Gaza (Photo by Jeff Ellis)

More than 800 community leaders gathered recently at the Hilton Chicago for the Friends of the Israel Defense Forces (FIDF) Illinois Annual Dinner, which celebrated Israel’s and the Israel Defense Forces (IDF)’s 70th anniversary, raising $2.5 million to support well-being and educational programs for IDF soldiers. The evening, one of the Chicago Jewish

Amir Ofer, a hero of Operation Entebbe (Photo by Jeff Ellis).

community’s largest events, featured active-duty IDF soldiers, including one the world’s few women flight navigators; wounded IDF Sgt. Elad Horwitz, who survived a gunshot to the head during the 2014 Operation Protective Edge in Gaza; and Amir Ofer, a hero of Operation Entebbe, the famous Israeli rescue mission at Uganda’s Entebbe Airport in 1976. During his long recovery, FIDF supported

IDF Staff Sgt. Ori Kulbak surprised his family in an onstage reunion (Photo by Steven Donisch)

Horwitz through its Wounded Soldiers Program and partnership with Brothers For Life. “My battalion was the first to enter Gaza. After about an hour, with tanks firing

FIDF Natl. Dir/CEO Maj. Gen. (Res.) Meir Klifi-Amir; FIDF Ill. Annual Dinner honorees Goldie Wolfe Miller and Jack Miller, with event emcee Steve Miller. (Photo by Jeff Ellis)

and helicopters overhead, my unit came under heavy fire. Suddenly I felt a blow to my head – and I couldn't see or hear anything,” said Horowitz. “While I was lying in my hospital bed, still not yet able to take in all that had happened to me and filled with pain, FIDF sent a delegation to visit me and my injured friends.” Ofer was a key figure in

Nehemiah Hasak, an 88 yr-old war hero who served in the Haganah and then IDF (Photo by Steven Donisch)

the Entebbe rescue operation that saved 102 hijacked Air France passengers held hostage by terrorists. Ofer, who was then a soldier in the IDF’s most elite special operations unit, was the first Israeli commando to enter the Entebbe Airport terminal, where he used a megaphone to tell the hostages, “Stay down! Stay down! We are Israeli soldiers!” One of the evening’s emotional highlights came when Staff Sgt. Ori Kulbak, originally from Skokie and a Lone Soldier – one who enlists in the IDF without immediate family in Israel – currently serving in the IDF’s elite Paratroopers Brigade, was reunited with his family onstage.The event honored Chicago

Consul General of Israel to the Midwestern US Aviv Ezra (center) and his wife Enat with IDF soldiers (Photo by Jeff Ellis).

entrepreneurs and philanthropists Jack and Goldie Wolfe Miller for their dedication to Israel’s troops. Co-chairing the event were Judith Joy and Bruce Miller and Alicia Oberman and Aaron Oberman. Presiding as the evening’s emcee was Steve Miller. The IDF Musical Ensemble performed a selection of popular and traditional Israeli music. “I’m thrilled and proud that FIDF and our supporters were able to play a part

IDF Staff Sgt. Ori Kulbak (R) and his father Shlomo Kulbak (Photo by Jeff Ellis).

in these soldiers’ lives,” said FIDF Midwest Executive Director Tamir Oppenheim. “As they did 70 years ago, the brave heroes of the IDF put it all on the line to protect Israel and Jews around the world. Our dinner was an incredible opportunity for our supporters to celebrate Israel’s 70th anniversary, while meeting and personally thanking the young men and women who look after the Jewish state today.” Other distinguished guests at the dinner included former U.S. Senator from Illinois Mark Kirk, Consul General of Israel to the Midwest United States Aviv Ezraand Einat Ezra; FIDF Central Region Chairman Daniel J. Hyman; FIDF Central Region President Thomas Kane; FIDF National Director and CEO Maj. Gen. (Res.) Meir Klifi-Amir; and FIDF Illinois Director Orley Desser.

Excited to be included in CS Magazine's Dynamic Women May 2018 feature alongside dynamos like Randy Fifield, Frances Renk, Kristina McGrath, Janet Owen, Michelle Durpetti and more! Special thanks to CS' Jeremy Bentivegna for organizing this fun feature/shoot at the Gwen Chicago! Photographer Mary Carol Fitzgerald did a GREAT job! Hope you agree! (For a link to all the participants, click here!)

Marty Gutilla

Such sad news hearing of Marty Gutilla's passing on April 23. He was a longtime fixture on the Rush Street scene, first in 1975 as a partner in Sweetwater with Steve Lombardo, Doug Buffone and Bob Marsico and in 1986, he went on to own and operate Eddie Rockets. In 1998, he opened Tavern on Rush, the legendary Gold Coast restaurant which celebrated its 20th anniversary earlier this month. This restaurant was his pride and joy. He loved this city and was devoted to his neighborhood. He's survived by his two children Shauna Gutilla Kelley and Sam Gutilla and his two grandchildren Anna and Christopher Kelley. RIP dear Marty…you will be sorely missed.

Food Bowl kick-off party at Cindy's Rooftop (Photo by Joseph Hernandez)

Mark your calendars for a brand new FOOD FESTIVAL! The Chicago Tribune will host "Food Bowl", a weeklong festival starting August 8. Inspired by a

Bruce Dold, Chicago Tribune editor-in-chief/publisher

concept launched by sister paper the Los Angeles Times, the Tribune's Food Bowl will feature curated dinners, panel discussions, community outings and other food-focused events throughout Chicago! Scheduled to run Aug.

Amy Carr, Chicago Tribune Associate Managing Editor/Features

8 thru 26th, the Bowl is accepting community partners! Just submit an event proposal to be considered at ctfood-bowl.com. (For more info about this exciting new event, click here!)

Eversight Illinois "Gift of Sight" Gala on Thurs., June 28 at the Peninsula!

Just a reminder, mark your calendars for the Eversight Illinois Gift of Sight Gala on Thursday, June 28, at the Peninsula (proud to be co-chairing with MyEyeDr's Michael Caputo and honoring Marco Foster and Dr. Elmer Tu!) (Tickets/info here)! The Green Tie Ball (that I'm delighted to co-chair with Nina Mariano) will be on Friday, Sept. 14, at The Geraghty! (Tickets/details here!) There will be a big surprise on this

Green Tie Ball, at the Geraghty on Friday, September 14!

event coming soon! I would also like to invite you to join me on Tuesday, October 2, when I will be honored by Chicago Lighthouse for the Blind at the Loew's Hotel–A FUN FASHION SHOW for a wonderful cause! (Tickets/info here!) JOIN ME!!!!

Baltimore Oriole!

Looks like spring has finally sprung! One reporter said it had been 200 days since we had warm weather like this!? That is just too crazy for words! Cardinals are already swarming around our balcony and, today, we saw a beautiful Baltimore Oriole! My pasty little face is just dying for sunshine! Hope you all get a chance to enjoy it soon too!

Love, as always,

Candace 🙂
Candace@CandidCandace.com

P.S. Grab a hanky for happy tears…..

Filed under Chicago, Culture, Current Affairs, Fashion, Film, Sports, Television

April 26, 2018 · 9:35 am

TECH TITAN HOWARD TULLMAN PROWLS THE CATWALK FOR PAWS CHICAGO

PLUS BORRIS POWELL'S SIZZLING "SIDES OF ME" FASHION SHOW; THOMAS NICKELL IN CONCERT; CHILDREN'S PLACE IN THE CASTLE OF DRAGONS; JANE GOODALL TALKS MONKEY LOVE AT FIELD MUSEUM; TINA BROWN'S "WOMEN IN THE WORLD" SUMMIT; STYLE RIVALS SHOWCASES LOCAL TALENT; LOSING GABRIELLE; COACHELLA'S CHICAGO CONNECTION; HOWARD, SALLY AND MIKA'S NEW JOBS; FILM FESTIVAL IS GOING TO THE DOGS (AND CATS!); CHICAGO YOUTH CENTERS "BELIEVE IN KIDS"; BREAKING GREEN TIE BALL NEWS!; SAKS' "IT LIST" FASHION SHOW FUNDRAISER FOR GIORDANO DANCE; HARBOR COUNTRY HOME & GARDEN TOUR; RING LARDNER AWARDS; RASHIED DAVIS HOSTS "CHEF BOWL" FOR SATURDAY PLACE; STEVE AND ANDREA HONORED; PAUL CELEBRATES 50!; CUTE VIDEOS AND SO MUCH MORE!!!

Howard Tullman, tech titan and longtime PAWS Chicago supporter

The Autohaus on Edens Mercedes-Benz showroom in Northbrook was transformed into a dynamic "catwalk" as the North Shore’s “best in show” fashion event, Launch: Driving Fashion Forward. This year’s 7th event, held on March 18th, celebrated PAWS Chicago and its expansion to the North Shore. More than 200 guests enjoyed walking

Emcee Tamara Taylor Holmes Michael Rosengarden winner Lindsay Holeso Columbia's Melissa Gamble

Emcee Tamara Taylor Holmes, Michael Rosengarden, winner Lindsay Holeso and Columbia's Melissa Gamble

the red carpet, shopping, light bites, cocktails and an exciting ZZAZZ Productions spring fashion show. Participating stores/designers included Juniper Boutique, Avant for Men, Londo Mondo, Lake Forest Shop and Project Runway’s Peach Carr Designs. Special pet

Autohaus' Michael Rosengarden

cameos completed the runway looks! A live auction got the “claws out” when bidders competed for the experience of a lifetime–a Mercedes VIP Experience to the U.S. Open for two

Bob Block and darling Godiva

with hotel, airfare and courtside seats courtesy of Autohaus on Edens and Mercedes-Benz USA. The event featured a “Project Runway” style competition among senior fashion design students from the Columbia College Fashion Department. Judges included Peach Carr (Project Runway alum/designer),

Peach Carr wearing her own design

Tracy Clifford (Make It Better Media senior fashion editor), Erin Brewer (Marketing Manager for Mercedes-Benz USA), Melissa Carr (Assoc. Professor and Apparel Merchandising Director at

Student winner Lindsay Holeso

Dominican University) and Andrea Rosengarden (philanthropist). Student designers showcased looks from their collections before the winner was announced. Lindsay Holeso walked away with the grand priza, a $5000 scholarship check (presented by last year's

The Lake Forest Shop gown

winner Ashley Velazquez) to use towards school or launching her own collection (courtesy of Northbrook Toyota) Holeso also won the People's Choice award, the first time any student has won both! In total, Autohaus on Edens has given out more than $35,000 in scholarships and, on this night, over $10,000 was donated to PAWS Chicago! (Photos by Stephen Lotho)

Thomas Nickell flanked by proud parents Carol Hertling Nickell and Frank Nickell

Thomas Nickell is flanked by proud parents, Carol Hertling Nickell and Frank Nickell

Rising 19-year-old New York pianist and composer Thomas Nickell recently performed a trio of concerts in Chicago accompanied by the Oistrakh Symphony of Chicago under

#7--Judie Green Helen Melchior Kathy Bliss

Judie Green, "Helpful" Helen Melchior and Kathy Bliss

Maestro Mina Zikri in preparation for their joint Carnegie Hall debut on June 3. Jones College Prep high school was the site of an open rehearsal for
students and members of the community in tandem with the City of Chicago’s Year

Susie Stein, Joan Colmar and Sarah Beardsley

of Creative Youth program. Nickell and Oistrakh Symphony then performed a SRO concert at the Garfield Park Conservatory as part of its popular “Music Under Glass” program. The

Christine Benson, Martha Katz, Carole Hillard and Trudy Cassin

whirlwind weekend was capped off with an elegant afternoon concert and reception for invited guests at a private club. Works by Beethoven, Chopin and Nickell himself were among those performed to great applause and admiration! (Photos by Brian Kinyon)

Adiat Baker, Borris Powell, Iya Bakare and Chef Markus Ford.

Award-winning fashion designer Borris Powell showcased his 2018 fall/winter collection to kick-off Fulton Market Expo on Saturday, March 7. Before a spillover crowd of nearly

Cuties at Borris' show

200 friends and supporters, Borris opened his show, themed "Sides of Me," singing a love song, "Make You Feel My Love" by Bob Dylan. (See him sing here). It was an appropriate choice as every single person in the crowd felt his love during

With Levar Hoard, Carla Agostinelli and Kendra Chaplin.

this stylish afternoon at WeWork, a chic industrial

DJ Madrid Perry.

space nestled in the Fulton River District in the city’s historical West Loop. Before the show, a ribbon cutting ceremony heralded the official opening for FMX (Fulton Market Expo), an annual celebration of local farmers and craftsmen that will be held every Saturday beginning in June through October (between Peoria and Green Streets). The

Chef Markus Ford works his magic in the kitchen!

block was first constructed in 1887 as the historical Fulton Street Wholesale Market, with two original red brick buildings still standing and bearing this name. The ceremony was presided over by Carla Agostinelli, executive director of WLCO (West Loop Community Organization). On hand were Alderman Walter Burnett, Miss Illinois, board members Sevy Perez, Frederick Dunson, Levar Hoard, Mary Danahy, Hannah Feldman, Bill Marovitz and others. Inside the WeWork venue, the stylish BP crowd anxiously awaited the show, mixing and mingling with friends and enjoying delicious food by handsome and talented Chef Markus Ford amid the floral splendor created by

Beauty blogger Nicole Townsend.

Ramsey Prince of Ashland Addison Floral Designs. The best beats around were provided by DJ Madrid Perry.

Stylish fashion show guests!

Before the show, Borris asked members of the audience wearing his designs to come up and be photographed. Nearly everyone in the room appeared beside BP for this special photo opp! After singing his love song to the crowd, Borris shared a very heartfelt and touching story about his return and some advice. "If you know anything about me, you know that I don't do this for me, I do this for all of us. All I want to do is have everyone feel as beautiful as they can, to celebrate themselves within their own skin. Don't worry about all the noise, people telling you who you need to be and where you need to be

Borris with two guests wearing his chic men's jackets.

on the success scale. We all have our own time to be successful and it's measured in your own eyes and ears. This is why this show is so important to me. It's called 'Sides of Me' because I've spent my whole entire life not giving you who I really am. I've painted a picture and I've lived inside of a box because I've been

Borris was all smiles at his sizzling show!

delivering the Borris that I thought you wanted instead of being myself. I was worrying about being you and I

Borris presented women's and menswear as well as bags.

lost me. It made me a really depressed person for a while. So, this moment is about being okay with who I am and giving you guys 'all sides of me.'" (Don't you just love him?) Borris' 45-minute show did not disappoint. Gliding down the red runway, models strutted their stuff wearing sparkling

Borris sings a love song to the crowd.

deep red and black ensembles (short, long and tea-length), feathered skirts, flowing peach gowns (new for spring), furs provided by York Furrier's Kathy Rezny (who is planning a collaboration with Borris soon), stylish menswear designs and, of course, the practical and perfect "Borris Bag." A standing O followed, long and loud. (See finale video here). (Cutting edge hair styling by Custom Hair Lounge). The show benefited one of Borris' favorite charities, Esperanza Community Services, a nonprofit established in 1969 that supports children and adults living with autism and other developmental differences. It was a wonderful afternoon among FOBs (Friends of Borris) with a mix of philanthropy, fabulous fashions and so much more. Happy to report, BORRIS IS BACK and his fans and friends are thrilled! Congrats with love BP!

Event chair Melissa Recatto, board chair Michael Silverman and event chair Marisa Kurk

Children's Place Association celebrated a magical evening at their “Once Upon a Time… at the Castle of Dragons" Gala on April 14 at Morgan Manufacturing

Elliott Johnson, Jasmine Giordani, Leah Johnson and Dianne Johnson.

with over 300 supporters. Media personality Marley Kayden returned as the emcee for the nonprofit’s black-tie fundraiser, the organization’s largest single source of private funds that supports the critical needs of children facing illness, homelessness and extreme poverty in our city. This year's gala co-chairs were Marisa Kurk (Belvedere Trading) and Melissa Recatto

Media personality Marley Kayden

(community volunteer). The event featured a medieval-themed evening ala "Game of Thrones" with decor that featured an iron throne and a signature bourbon drink called the Knight's Watch. Live music was provided by the Steve Edwards Orchestra. The gala honored Chicago’s ever-popular Blue Man Group for their generous support. (The Group has donated more than $200,000 to Children’s Place Association since 2000!) The evening raised over $400,000. (Lead sponsors were RBC Capital Markets, RT Specialty, CIBC and Zurich).

Dr. Jane Goodall delivers keynote address at Field Museum's Women in Science luncheon (Photo by Kyle Flubacker)

Wearing a chimpanzee pin on her black sweater and a necklace bearing a charm shaped like Africa, Jane Goodall, primatologist, conservationist and human rights champion, addressed the sellout crowd of over 1000 during the Field Museum's "Women in Science Luncheon" at the Sheraton Grand Chicago on April 3. The afternoon began with a welcome by Richard Lariviere, Field

#1--Dr. Jane Goodall DBE and Dr. Corrie Moreau Women in Science steering committee co-chair Kyle Flubacker

Dr. Jane Goodall, DBE and Dr. Corrie Moreau (photo by Kyle Flubacker)

Museum president/CEO. He spoke about the Museum's many successes and achievements including having 2 million acres in the Peruvian rain forest dedicated as the Yagos National Park as a direct result of efforts by the Museum's field scientists. Susan Clark McBride, Field Museum Women's Board president, called her

Dr. Goodall engages in Q&A with Dr. Corrie Moreau as her beloved stuffed animal, Mr. H, looks on

job the "best gig in town" and asked the WB members to stand after acknowledging the event's co-chairs, WB members Julie Goff and Tonja Hall. She announced that the luncheon raised over $400,000 with proceeds benefiting a variety of programs through its "Women in Science" initiative. McBride introduced Dr. Corrie Moreau, the Robert A. Pritzker Director of the Integrative Research Center. Moreau, who conducted

Dr. Goodall with one of her beloved chimps (Photo courtesy of National Geographic)

a Q & A with Dr. Goodall following the scientist's keynote address, called meeting her a "privilege and a personal career highlight." She said that Goodall spends over 300 days annually on the road on speaking tours and that she visited 22 countries last year alone. Goodall, a beautiful woman who celebrated her 84th birthday on

Dr. Jane Goodall receives 84th BD gift from Field Museum's Women's Board (Photo by Kyle Flubacker)

the same day as the luncheon, shows no signs of slowing down. Her elegant silver hair was pulled back in a full pony-tail and her blue eyes still sparkled with mischief and curiosity. A colorful shawl, that I suspect was African, was draped casually around her slender shoulders atop a black top and slacks. On the podium, she had placed 3 stuffed animals. One, Mr. H, is a bit of a celebrity. Goodall

Dr. Goodall blows out her BD candles as crowd sings happy BD (Photo by Kyle Flubacker)

explained receiving the stuffed chimp from a Marine vet who had lost his eyesight at age 21. The toy is named after him, Gary Horn, who, after losing his sight, decided to become a magician. She said his name, Mr. H., also stands for 'hope' and that the toy has been to 63 countries and touched by 5 million people. She opened her speech,

Videos of Goodall scrolled during the luncheon

an hour long and delivered with no notes, with loud monkey hoots, that she said was a form of greeting in the primate world. Jane's future seemed to be predestined. In 1952, she left school to take a job as a secretary. On a visit to see a childhood friend who lived in Kenya, she was introduced to paleontologist/fossil hunter Louis Leakey. He had lost

African inspired table decor at Field Museum luncheon

his secretary the week before and so Jane's story begins…After Leakey observed her work in the field, he hired her for a research project he'd been planning for years, a long-term immersive study of chimpanzees in the wild. A highlight of her career was the discovery that animals (chimpanzees) use tools. She witnessed a chimp (one she named David Greybeard) in the wild, not only using a tool but making one too–a twig, stripped of leaves to spoon termites out of a nest. She recalled, "At that time, it was thought that humans, and only humans, used and made tools. I had been told from school onward that the best

Dr. Goodall reviews model of artist Marla Friedman's sculpture of "The Red Palm Nut".

definition of a human being was "man the tool maker", yet I had just watched a chimp in action." Goodall telegraphed Leakey, her boss, with the news. His response has since become the stuff of scientific legend: "Now we must redefine man, redefine tools, or accept chimpanzees as humans." At the end of Goodall's inspiring talk and following Moreau's short Q & A, the crowd surprised her by singing happy birthday and presenting her with a cake.

Attendees at the evening reception at the Field Museum take pics of Goodall's sculpture by Marla Friedman (Photo by Kyle Flubacker)

(See video here) The Jane Goodall Institute, founded in 1977, is a global conservation organization that protects chimps by supporting sanctuaries and inspires people to conserve the natural world and improve the lives of people, animals and the environment. To date, over 34 institutes have been established around the world. (To learn more and/or to donate, click here).

Tina Brown

Tina Brown hosted her 9th annual Women in the World Summit that wrapped up on April 14 in NYC. The 3-day programming hosted conversations with leading activists and experts that included award-winning actress Viola Davis, former Deputy Attorney General

Misty Copeland

Sally Yates, sexual assault/whistleblower Asia Argento, Nobel Peace Prize winner Leymah Gbowee, former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, among others. On the final day,

Leslie Stahl

speakers model Maye Musk, principal dancer for the ABT Misty Copeland and activist Janis McGrory, who took on Big Pharma and the opioid crisis in memory of her daughter, took the stage. Student

Julianna Margulies

activists Delaney Tarr and Naomi Wadler closed the summit encouraging everyone to get involved in the effort to end gun violence–two months to the day of the shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas School in Parkland, Florida. (Photos courtesy of Tina Brown’s Women in the World Summit / Tina Brown Live Media)

With Style Rivals creator Jennifer Kelly

The 2nd annual Style Rivals Fashion Show Competition took place at the cool West Loop industrial space, Low Res Studios, on March 29. The event, founded by Jennifer Kelly, is truly a celebration of the diverse fashion talent that we have in our community and included a fashion show competition between 12 local stylists.

Winning stylist Javier Camacho and friends

Competitors included Chella Boyd, Iva Elliot, Shantal Byfield, Chelsea Baker, Javier Camacho, Faithima Wright, Deanna Marie, Cori Davis, Jorrie Reed, Shakari Laws, Larryann Aaron

Honored to be a judge alongside Dani "J" Jamison (VH1 reality star/fashion stylist blogger) and Jahir Logan (artist/designer/Debonair Harbor founder).

and Michelle Lewis. Every designer/stylist brought their A-game and featured models of every size and stripe who wore the designs (75 looks) with pride and attitude! I was proud to be a judge along with Dani "J" Jamison, VH1 Reality Star/fashion stylist/blogger, and Jahir Logan,

Style Rivals judge Dani "J" Jamison and young runway star.

an artist/designer and founder/CEO of Debonair Harbor. The evening also featured live performances by contemporary Rapper Oz and Aailiyah Allah, who sang an R & B number from her first

With stylish models from winner Javier Camacho's runway presentation

CD. ALL of the stylists/designers were spectacular but, in the end, stylist Javier Camacho (in his first fashion showing ever!) walked away with the grand prize! The award was presented by last year's winner Brittany Franklin. Javier also won a professional photography session, a creative consultation from BH Creative Media Company and a cash prize (sponsored by Country Financial). (See Javier's collection finale here!)

Gabrielle Weisberg

Sad, sad news….Heaven gained a beautiful angel all too soon. Beloved philanthropist, wife, mother, friend Gabrielle Weisberg passed away

Gabrielle at "Breathe for Life" fundraiser she founded, with (from L) son-in-law Adam, daughter Danielle, husband Donnie and daughter Jordyn.

on April 8 surrounded by her loved ones. She was a top Baird & Warner real estate broker who loved her family, animals and the many charities she supported. We ran into Donnie and Gabrielle in 1990 in Marbella by happenstance and wound up going to dinner. Husband

Happier times

Donnie recounted at the service at Holy Name that this was her first time out of the country. The church was full to bursting with friends paying their respects followed by a memorial lunch at Gibson's. In lieu of flowers, the family invited friends to honor her memory by making a donation to Breath for Life, a charity she founded in honor of her friend Diane Cole. Rest in peace beautiful one. (Read Maureen O'Donnell's obit in the Sun-Times HERE).

Beyonce headlined Coachella 2018

The Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival (commonly referred to as Coachella or the Coachella Festival), a white-hot annual music and arts festival, was held recently at

Chicago "IT" couple Whitney and Kadmiel Christmas at Coachella 2018.

the Empire Polo Club in Indio, California. The event was attended by over 250,000 fans including scores of celebrities and our very own Whitney and Kadmiel Christmas! Cooper

Cooper Hefner hosted a Playboy Social Club at Coachella with cute friends.

Hefner hosted a Playboy Social Club at the event with his fiance Scarley Byrne and several Bunnies bedecked in floral Bunny costumes. The event was co-founded by Paul Tollett and Rick Van Santen in 1999 and features musical artists from many genres of music, including rock, indie, hip hop, and electronic

Justin Bieber mingling with friends at Coachella.

dance music, as well as art installations and sculptures. Across the grounds, several stages continuously hosted live music including this year's headliner Beyonce, the first black

Jamie Foxx performing at Coachella

woman to ever host this festival. Backed by a full marching band and dancers, she opened her thrill-filled show with "Crazy in Love." The festival's origins trace back to a 1993 concert that Pearl Jam performed at the Empire Polo Club while

The Weekend performing at Coachella.

boycotting venues controlled by Ticketmaster. The show validated the site's viability for hosting large events, leading to the inaugural Coachella Festival.

Howard Tullman has been tapped to run new innovation center

Tech titan Howard Tullman, former 1871 CEO, has been appointed first director of a new innovation center at the Illinois Institute of Technology, the Ed Kaplan Family Institute for Innovation and Tech Entrepreneurship. Kaplan, an

Howard and Judy Tullman supporting their favorite charity, PAWS Chicago.

Illinois Tech alumnus and board member, and his wife donated $11 million to create the center, scheduled to
open this fall. According to a Tribune article, Tullman said the goal is to train students beyond their technical education to focus also upon ingenuity. “I want (Illinois Tech) to be a go-to place when Amazon and all these people do their calculations,” Tullman said. “They couldn’t have been clearer that talent was a major concern.” Love and congrats Howard! They are lucky to have you! (Watch Howard on "Chicago Tonight" HERE!)

The NY Cat Film Festival debuts in Chicago soon!

For those who love dogs and cats, a special weekend of films is taking place in Chicago! The first ever NY Cat Film Festival, which joins

The NY Dog Film Festival is coming to Chicago!

the popular NY Dog Film Festival, now in its third year, will debut here on April 28 & 29! The NY Cat Film Festival is truly the first collection of films, carefully curated by pet wellness expert and champion Tracie Hotchner, to transcend the short, (and sometimes silly) videos we see online and, instead, celebrate our fascination with the feline kind through film. The festival premiered in New York City in December to

A film that will be in the Dog Film Fest, "Denali"

a sold out theater and is now traveling the country alongside the NY Dog Film Festival. Both festivals will be held at the Patio Theater (6008 W. Irving Park Rd.) on April 28 & 29. The festivals are each a celebration of our love for dogs and cats, illustrated through film. The NY Cat Film Festival will be held on Saturday, April 28, at

"Awesome Living with Andy", film by Denys and M. Holmes

12:00 noon and 1:30 pm and The NY Dog Film Festival will be held on Sunday, April 29, at 12:00 noon and 1:45 p.m. (On Sunday, well-behaved dogs are welcome to attend!) A portion of every ticket benefits the Winn Feline Foundation, dedicated to the health and welfare of all cats. www.winnfelinefoundation.org . To purchase tickets or for more information, click here!

Chicago Youth Centers (CYC), one of Chicago’s largest independent youth and family services organization will host its signature annual benefit, the "Believe in Kids" dinner (sponsored by Wintrust) will be held on Thursday, May 17, at The Ritz-Carlton. The mission of CYC is to empower children and teens to recognize and experience their full potential. This decades-old benefit, this year themed "Igniting the Spark," celebrates CYC alumni, families, staff, and supporters and raises critically needed funds for Chicago’s largest private youth organization. Chairs for this year’s benefit are Anne Doherty, Jeff Heh and Judy Macior. (For tix/more info, click here!)

JOIN US on June 28 for the Gift of Sight Gala!

I'm getting excited about the plans my fellow co-chair Michael Caputo and the fabulous Eversight Illinois gala committee are up to for the annual "Gift of Sight"

Honorees Marco Foster and Dr. Elmer Tu

gala on Thursday, June 28! We're thinking fun in the sun and color, color, COLOR as we light up the night to raise funds for sight restoration and honor two well-respected do-gooders Marco Foster and Dr. Elmer Tu! I hope you can join us at this chic party at the Peninsula Chicago! (For tickets/more info, click here!)

More thrilling news to announce about this year's Green Tie Ball! Our theme will be "Green Eggs & Glam" which will allow a lot of cool creativity with your wardrobe! The Seuss-ical themed event will be at the Geraghty on Friday, Sept. 14! Honored to co-chair this signature fundraiser for Chicago Gateway Green with Nina Mariano! For more info, click here!)

Green Tie Ball 2018 benefits Chicago Gateway Green

If you love fashion and dance then you're gonna love the "It List," a fashion show fundraiser for Giordano Dance Chicago presented by Saks Fifth Avenue (Michigan Ave) on Thursday, April 26 (TONIGHT!) I understand the darling dancers will have a sweet surprise for guests too so I hope to see YOU there! (For tix/info, click here)

Allegrezza's Boozy Brunch Fundraiser will be held at Mas Allá del Sol Mexican Restaurant (5848 N. Broadway) on Saturday, April 28 from 10 am to noon! Please come out and support this wonderful choral group that is ALWAYS finding ways to give back to its community! For tix/more info, click here!

Art of Caring co-chairs Barbara Kelner and Carolyn Milligan

A sell-out crowd of 225 guests celebrated the 29th annual "Light Up the Night" Art of Caring gala hosted by the Women's Board of Catholic Charities, Lake County Services and Rev.

Art of Caring honorary chairs John and Midge Nelson

Monsignor Michael M. Boland, President of Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Chicago. This signature event, the largest fundraiser for Catholic Charities services in Lake County, raised more than $450,000 at the beautiful Deer Path Inn in Lake Forest on April 14. Honorary chairs of the event were WB

John Poth and Women's Board president Patti Poth

member Midge and John Nelson. The Champagne Kings entertained guests with live music. Mary Carlson was the recipient of the Irene Leahy McMahon Award which is given each year to a member who has given of her time and talent to the Women’s Board. Carlson served as President and vice-president as well as other offices and also helps with Christmas gifts and a yearly clothing drive for clients in many of the nonprofit's Lake County programs. (Photos by Mike Kelly)

Garden Walk

One of our favorite events is the Home & Garden Tour in Harbor Country, Michigan that, this year, benefits Heartland Alliance and Designs for Dignity (D4D). These two

Home and Garden Tour

non-profits, that support vulnerable populations through direct services and pro bono design for other non-profits, have joined forces to co-host this year's event on June 9. The tour,

Outdoor dining spaces

which spans much of southwest Michigan, gives guests exclusive access to some of the area’s most exquisite homes and gardens, six this year, which feature award-winning architecture and landscaping. The Home & Garden Tour will take place on Saturday, June 9 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. EDT, beginning in Lakeside, MI. Single tickets are $110 and can be purchased here!

Bailey Gunderson, Julie Tuttle and Brad Gunderson

More than 200 guests attended the sold-out 13^th annual Ring Lardner Awards at the Union League Club on April 12. The event honored the broadcasters and

Jeffrey Chen and Lin Brehmer

writers who exemplify the wit and warmth of Ring Lardner's writing. (Lardner was renowned as a sportswriter, humorist and satirist). This year’s honorees included Peter Gammon (broadcast); Paul Sullivan (print) and Lou Boudreau (posthumous, award accepted by his son James Boudreau). Event proceeds benefited the Union League Boys & Girls Clubs, that serves vulnerable youth in some of Chicago's neediest neighborhoods.

Erick Williams, Rashied David and Tony Priolo

Former Bears receiver Rashied Davis hosted "Chef Bowl 2018", a fundraiser to benefit his charity, Saturday Place, at Kings Dining & Entertainment

Jerry Azumah, Charles Tillman and Rashied Davis and his cute son

Lincoln Park on April 6. The event brought together some of Chicago’s top chefs for a day of bowling and food and was chaired by popular Chef Tony Priolo (Piccolo Sogno, Nonnina and Maillard Tavern). In addition to Priolo,

Rashied Davis with Saturday Place teaching staff

other participating chefs included Erick Williams (MK), Kevin Cuddihee (TWO), Cory Morris (Boleo), Tom Valente (Lucille), Ben Grant (Maple & Ash) and

Chef Tony Priolo prepares to bowl!

Kevin Hickey (Duck Inn). During the event, chefs competed in a “Turkey Bowl” competition, bowling three consecutive frames in unique and challenging ways.

Danny Grant, Jerry Azumah, Zach Walrath, Anthony Adams, Curt Lotspeich, Kevin Hickey, Tony Priolo, Donald Biernacki, Al Lewis and Rama Dandamudi, among others.

Saturday Place is a premiere academic enrichment program for third and fourth grade Chicago Public School students proven to increase student performance. The weekly program meets

Winifred and Donald Biernacki

on Saturdays at the University of Illinois-Chicago and provides student-focused, attentive instruction. “I’m incredibly proud to be partnering with Saturday Place, an organization that has such a positive influence on the youth of Chicago,” Priolo said. “I’m thrilled to bring some of the city’s best chefs together for another year of supporting such an amazing cause.”

Honorees Andrea Schwartz Stryker and Dr. Steve Stryker

On Saturday, June 9, the Northwestern Digestive Health Foundation will host its annual gala, this year honoring Dr. Steve Stryker and his stunning wife Andrea Schwartz Stryker. The event will be held at the Four Seasons Chicago and emceed by Mary Ann Childers and Jay Levine. I can't wait to pay tribute to these two fabulous Chicagoans! Join me! (For tickets and more info, click here!)

Mothers in the Mills founder Cari Meyers with the nonprofit's namesake Millie.

The annual Mothers in the Mills Gala will be held on Friday, May 11, at the Kimpton Hotel Allegra (171 W. Randolph). The event, Jeans & Jewels, will honor Dan and Rudi Taylor, co-founders and executive directors of Harley’s Dream, a Colorado based non-profit working to end puppy mills through awareness, education and advocacy. (Their adoption of the now world famous Harley inspired them to start Harley’s Dream). Advance tickets are on sale now for $125 and tickets at the door will be $150. (Details here!) Your ticket will include a vegan dinner buffet, an open bar, music from Out of Control and live and silent auctions.

Paul Iacono celebrates 51st BD at Marchesa

Beloved man-about-town and dowell expert Paul Iacono, celebrated his 51st birthday at Marchesa recently. He was surrounded by friends who included Jennifer Sutton Brieva and her husband Dr. Joaquin Brieva, Dede Lubeznik, Peter Chi Au and his wife Cynthia, Whitney and Kadmiel Christmas, Lori Allen, Kathleen Casey and Greg Kosinski, Jeff and Melissa Shea, Todd Hatoff, Dmitry Cherenshikov and Bianca Richie, Donna Rotunno, Kirk Williams and others, with a surprise, photo-shopped appearance by Paul's longtime friend William Holdeman. (To see the celebration, click here!)

Sally Shorr has been named director of PR for The Buzz Agency

Congrats to my smart/cute friend Sally Shorr who was recently named Director of PR for The Buzz Agency, the largest PR firm in Palm Beach County! They are very, very lucky to have HER! Many of you may remember her as the co-founder/editorial director of Luxe File Chicago along with her darling sis Kerry Shorr!

Mika Stambaugh, interim executive director of Komen Chicago.

More congrats are in order for the dynamic Mika Stambaugh, who has been named interim executive director of Komen Chicago. Mika has been a board member for over a year and a longtime supporter of the nonprofit. She said, "I lost my grandmother and a close friend and now my aunt is battling this disease." She replaces Bonnie Gordon, who stepped down. Cancer better watch its ass with you in charge Mika!

Such sad news to share….Marty Gutilla, beloved proprietor of Tavern on Rush, passed away peacefully today after a year-long battle with lung cancer. He will be remembered as a loving father, grandfather, brother, friend and long-time Chicago restaurateur.

In 1975, Gutilla and partners Steve Lombardo, Doug Buffone and Bob Marsico, opened Sweetwater Café (located at the corner of Rush Street and Bellevue and the current home of Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse).

In 1986, he went on to own and operate Eddie Rockets, and in April of 1998, he opened Tavern on Rush. The legendary Gold Coast restaurant, which celebrated its 20th Anniversary earlier this month, was Gutilla’s pride and joy. May he rest in peace.

That's it for this week! I hope you've enjoyed all the news from this dynamic city and beyond! As always, if you have information you would like to share, please send it to candace@candidcandace.com!

With love and thanks,

Candace
candace@candidcandace.com
CandaceJordan@rcn.com

P.S. And, of course, something to leave you with a smile! Behold, the "Cupboard Ninja Attack Cat"!

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

April 3, 2018 · 8:26 am

HOLIDAY HEROES’ GANGSTA-STYLE PARTY BENEFITS HOSPITALIZED KIDS

LEGENDARY LANDMARKS CELEBRATION; HORT COUTURE DEBUTS AT CHICAGO FLOWER & GARDEN SHOW; PRETTY WOMAN THE MUSICAL; BATON SHOW LOUNGE CELEBRATES 49; BRIAN ATWOOD FOCUS OF HISTORY MUSEUM LUNCHEON; THE 900 SHOPS HOP TO IT FOR EASTER; JUDI'S "REGAL TREATMENT"; LESLIE ZEMECKIS PREMIERES MABEL; OLD ST. PAT'S CELTIC CELEBRATION; ANIXTER CENTER HONORS ALEX; HIDE-N-SEEK AT CHICAGO CHILDREN'S MUSEUM; GIORDANO DANCE CHICAGO HAS A LOT TO CELEBRATE; HOTTEST UPCOMING EVENTS; PLAYBOY FACES OFF WITH FACEBOOK; ANDREA'S BIG BD PARTY; ROSEANNE'S SIZZLING REBOOT; THIS-AND-THAT; CUTE VIDEOS AND SO MUCH MORE!

Bob Griswold, Deirdre Capone, Janey Quay Winiecki, Felicia and Kurt Winiecki

Holiday Heroes, a nonprofit that provides parties for hospitalized children who are terminally or chronically ill, hosted "Cocktails & Capone", a fundraiser held at CHEZ under the chairmanship of

Sherry Lea, Pat Maxwell, Kathy Piccone

Felicia Winiecki on March 14. Nearly 200 guests attended, many dressed gangsta-style, helping raise funds that will provide over 160 hospitalized kids with an experience that includes a themed party with decorations and fun

Carol Collins, Tiffany Marshall, Frances Renk and friend

crafts for them and their siblings, a catered meal for the entire family plus a $100 gift card! The evening centered around a Q & A and book signing with the last living relative of gangster Al

Dusty Stemer, Harel and Danielle Deutsch

Capone, his niece Deirdre Marie Capone! She discussed her life and recent book, "Al Capone," with the much loved reporter/former news anchor Robert Jordan during an evening

Jim Karas and event chair Felicia Winiecki

produced by Bonnie Kaplan. It was a homecoming, of sorts, for Deirdre as she recalled being taken to this same venue, that was formerly the famed Chez Paree nightclub, with her famous Uncle Al on her 15th

With Deirdre Marie Capone and Robert Jordan

birthday! (She's 78 now). The performer that night, the one and only Nat King Cole, sang "Unforgettable" to her to celebrate! Congrats to Felicia and all the supporters who attended in support of Holiday Heroes!

(L) Landmarks Ill. pres/CEO Bonnie McDonald and honorees Daniel Levin, Landmarks IL vice chair Sandra Rand and Toni Preckwinkle and friends

Landmarks Illinois attracted over 800 guests to its annual Legendary Landmarks Celebration on March 8. Always a packed house for this event, the Hilton

Melinda and Lucien Lagrange with My-Nga Lam

Chicago was filled with historic preservation advocates, supporters and friends to honor this year's Legendary Landmarks honorees– Daniel Levin, founder and chairman of

Legendary Landmark Leslie Hindman bids in the live auction

The Habitat Company; Toni Preckwinkle, Cook County Board President and Fred Berglund, president of Berglund Construction. The

Joe Antunovich and Richard Driehaus

evening began with a cocktail reception that was so full that it was hard to navigate. Guests then moved on to the main event, the awards presentation, this year held in a bigger

The Soul Children on Chicago

ballroom, the International Room, due to increased attendance. As partygoers filed in, they were energized by the sounds of the Soul Children of Chicago who were rippin' it up onstage. Bonnie McDonald,

Legendary Landmarks honorees

president/CEO Landmarks Illinois, welcomed the crowd before the video presentation of "People Saving Places: Landmarks Illinois at Work." Following the program, attendees enjoyed an elaborate dessert reception in the Grand Ballroom. The gala raised over $850,000 to help fund the nonprofit's Advocacy Program, the heart of Landmarks Illinois' work to preserve and protect historic landmarks.

Tony Abruscato dedicated the show to his mom, Judy Abruscato

Another great year for the Chicago Flower & Garden Show! A special thanks to director Tony Abruscato and his crack team on ALL the hard work they did to bring spring to Chicago in such grand style! Both the

Navy Pier president/CEO Marilynn Gardner at the podium with (from L) Mike Nowak and Tony Abruscato (Chicago Flower & Garden Show director)

opening night charity benefit, Hort Couture, and the show itself were great successes! Hort Couture attracted over 600 stylish guests who mixed and mingled throughout the 170,000+ square-foot space amid 21

Designer Elda de la Rosa, Maria Villari and Jesse Rodriguez

fragrant, colorful gardens. Each garden was inspired by the show's theme, "Flowertales: Every Garden Has a Story to Tell" with book-related motifs everywhere you looked! One of the lead sponsors,

Melinda Whitmore (Vitruvian Fine Art Studio) with model Jasmine Quintana for event finale

Subaru, presented a garden of wonder inspired by "The Wizard of Oz." There must be a 1000 Instagram photos of this delightful space that included a yellow brick road leading to a backdrop of

Cool designer Ramsey Prince (Ashland Addison Floral & Event Decor) and friend

the Emerald City and a brand new Subaru Forester. To add even more excitement, the whole cast of characters from the literary classic were on hand for photo opps–Dorothy

The Landan Twins (Jon and Andrew) with the Spirit of Oz characters in the Subaru garden

(portrayed by The Spirit of Oz' Holly Webb) even had a live dog to complete her spot-on look! Another favorite of mine was the garden designed by the students and teachers from the Chicago High School for Agricultural Sciences. As you walked through the Hobbit-house shaped door, guests

Wearing floral jewelry from Stacey Carlton, The Flora Culturist

entered an enchanted forest filled with wizards, mad hatters, witches and more. I was in heaven since I prefer to live in a land of

Kelly Mahieu and Sarah Mills

make believe almost full time! I also loved the exquisite tablescapes by Debi Lilly and Kehoe Designs–who NEVER disappoint! (See video here!) And, as if all of this fun and beauty wasn't enough, the floral fashion show just blew everyone away! I had a chance for a sneak peek backstage before the show (see video here) and it was a bee hive of activity as 13 popular, local designers put the finishing touches to their

David Lissner and Terri Silverstone

garments and accessories made of fresh cut flowers, plants and other natural materials. Participating designers were Debi Lilly (A Perfect Event), Ali Martin (Big Al's Wonderland), Stacey Carlton (The Flora Culturist), Elda de la Rosa (Elda de la Rosa Couture), Sheryl Timmerman

Norissa Bailey-Topete (center) with floral friends

(A Special Touch), Melinda Whitmore (Vitruvian Fine Art Studio), Amy Crum (Amy Crum Designs), Laura Daluga and Brian Skol (Department of Floristry), Ian Hargrove (Against All Odds), Ramsey Prince and Borris Powell (Ashland Addison Floral and Event

Fabulous presentation by Kehoe Designs

Decor) and Tami Smallwood (Tami Trace Designs). The finale, by Vitruvian Fine Art Studio's Melinda Whitmore, was dramatic and awe-inspiring! (See this video here!) The event benefited Bernie's Book Bank, a nonprofit that focuses on book ownership for at-risk kids in the Chicagoland area, and The Get Growing

An overflow crowd for the opening night benefit for 7th CFGS

Foundation, the charitable arm of the Chicago Flower & Garden Show that produces outreach initiatives to cultivate the next generation of gardeners. Congrats to Tony and his fabulous team for, yet another, magical production! The show returns March 13 thru the 19th in 2019! For details, click here! (Photos by Mila Samokhina)

Leads Steve Kazee and Samantha Barks celebrate premiere at after-party with an Eli's Cheesecake! (Photo by Maureen Schulman)

Hands clapping, heads nodding and a standing ovation greeted the pre-Broadway world premiere of "Pretty Woman The Musical"on March 28, at Broadway in Chicago's Oriental Theatre. Based on the Touchstone Pictures film "Pretty Woman," written by J.F. Lawton and book by Lawton and the late Garry Marshall, the musical is a foot-stomping romp from Hollywood Blvd. to the penthouse of the Beverly Wilshire with a stellar, talented cast. When the leads first came onstage, in particular,

Samantha Barks, Steve Kazee and the Company at world premiere of "Pretty Woman The Musical" at the Oriental Theatre (Photo by Matthew Murphy)

Samantha Barks who plays Vivian Ward, I stupidly thought how can someone be so beautiful and have a voice to match? Well, first impressions were instantly cast aside when she opened her mouth to sing. This award-winning actress can do it all and

An exciting night for Chicago theater!

you just couldn't take your eyes off her. She easily went from the hooker character to a well-groomed, glam socialite type without losing a beat or heart. She was lovable, funny (there are so many great lines in this production) and a great dancer to boot, pun intended! Wait till you see her in her thigh-high, black,

Finale, "Pretty Woman The Musical"

patent leather boots! The male lead, Steve Kazee, is a Tony and Grammy Award-winner and was wonderful (sufficient) in the role of Edward Lewis but I didn't think he had the power or charm of a Richard Gere. I wish he had been sexier and more dynamic, but this didn't diminish my enthusiasm for the show. The set was spectacular and so very clever. Even before the show opened, the backdrop made the audience feel as if they were looking out over Hollywood from behind

Producer Douglas Denoff is all smiles following the premiere

its iconic sign. I just loved it and fell immediately into the moment. A standout in the show and my very favorite was Eric Anderson (who seemed to play every single role except for the leads!) He was brilliant in everything he portrayed and went from a down-and-out guy selling maps to stars homes on Hollywood Blvd. to being the polished manager of the Beverly Wilshire seamlessly. I thought there was so much to see and love in this production. Granted, there are tweaks that need to be made, some things could be cut, but overall, I would go back to see it again in a heartbeat. I left on sensory overload, with songs in my heart. And this is exactly what you would expect from an uplifting, funny, smart musical like this. All of the producers attended the performance and an after-party was held in the Walnut Room at Macy's State Street. As guests entered, they were each presented with a glass of champagne with a strawberry in it just

Abigail Simon sparkles at the after-party

like Vivian and Edward enjoyed in the production. Awwwwww! Guests in attendance included Dean Richards, Ji Suk Yi (doing her thing now for the lucky Sun-Times), Lisa Fielding, Brenda Arelano, Lisa Kraus, Jerry Nunn, Margie Korshak, Steve Traxler, former Joffrey Ballet star Abigail Simon, Michael Kutza, Jeanne Malkin, Susan Ellefson, Diane and Sandy Whiteley, Chris Dudley (Illinois Film Office director), Suzanne Friedman and Rick Nicita (CAA partner), among many others. Rumor has it, Julia Roberts might be attending the premiere when it reaches New York on August 1. Now that is something I wish I could see. Runs now through April 15 at the Oriental Theatre (24 W. Randolph St.), 2 hours, 20 minutes.

With Chuck, Dan Neniskis and Baton owner Jim Flint

The Baton Show Lounge (436 N. Clark) celebrated

Angel Saez and 93 year-old Cubs fan

its 49th anniversary with a private event at the Club on March 14. The evening began with a reception where guests enjoyed hors d'oeuvres, cocktails and the soothing sounds of Antonio Edward. A new 2 hour long anniversary show followed with star

Jim Flint and Jamie Gabala

performers Chilli Pepper, Maya Douglas, Sheri Payne, Ginger Grant, Angel Sanchez, Sasha Colby, Victoria Le Paige and the reigning Mr. and Mrs.

Popular performer Sheri Payne

Continentals Ramon Ventura and Shantell D'Marco (see her performance here!) tearing up the stage. The room was packed with fans, friends and supporters, including a 93 year-old Cubs fan who never missed her turn at tipping the performers. Owner Jim Flint thanked the over-flow crowd and got teary-eyed up thanking his mentor/ landlord Al Friedman. Congrats with love to Jim, Dan Neniskis, the entire staff and, of course, the fabulous, energetic performers!

Pretty sure this event will be a sellout! The Chicago History Museum with host its annual Spring Luncheon, this year featuring darling shoe designer Brian Atwood in conversation with Chicago Magazine's Susanna Homan on Wed., May 30! Details will follow for this event co-chaired by Yolanda Stemer, Toni Canada and Melissa Skoog Dunagan! Can't wait!

Darling photo opps with the Easter Bunny at The 900 Shops

It was almost cuteness overload at The 900 Shops from March 23 to the 31st when Mr. Easter Bunny hopped onto the 5th floor, providing photo opps and joy for all who visited! The space was decorated in pastel shades

Having some fun with the 900 crew that created this magical space–David Murga, Alicia Skruba, Stacy Kolios and Taylor Stucker

with crystal chandeliers, colorful "flowers" and a cloud of balloons that cascaded from the ceiling down to the floor. Kids, and adults, stood wide-eyed waiting in line for this magical, charming Easter experience! Kudos to 900's crack team Alicia Skruba, Stacy Kolios, Taylor Stucker and David Murga on a job very well done!

Artist Judi Regal and her new coffee table book of her recent exhibition.

Accomplished artist/friend Judi Regal is really making waves in the art world! Her recent one woman show at the Coral Springs Museum of Art was a hit as is her new coffee table book! She's had feature articles in Art Hive Magazine and Simply the Best Magazine and more! Read her latest feature, "Regal Treatment" by Bruce Helander here and take a look at her website here! Congrats Judi! YOU are a force!

Leslie Zemeckis at NY premiere of Mabel with Martha Stewart.

Author/producer/director/writer Leslie Zemeckis premiered her recent film, "Mabel, Mabel, Tiger Trainer" at the Chicago History Museum on March 25. I was proud to introduce Leslie and her film about Mabel Stark, the world's first female tiger

Mabel Stark, subject of Leslie Zemeckis' latest film "Mabel, Mabel, Tiger Trainer"

trainer. Leslie became a bit emotional talking about Mabel. Her husband, famed producer/director Robert Zemeckis who is also the film's executive producer, told me she gets very close to her subjects and feels very protective of them. Leslie has written and produced

With Leslie and Bob Zemeckis at the Chicago History Museum

books and films about underdogs and the disenfranchised, women in particular, and she wears her heart on her sleeve concerning her subjects. A Q & A followed conducted by the Museum's Director of Special Events, Jessica Trent. Leslie and Robert left for NYC the following day for a by-invite-only party at MOMA for the film where they celebrated after at a private dinner party attended by Martha Stewart.

Co-chairs Jim and Lynn Kiley, Father Tom Hurley and co-chairs Bill and Shelley Farley

Old St. Pat's hosted its 22nd annual Siamsa na nGael, the glorious Celtic musical celebration, at the Symphony Center on March 6. Originally founded in 1996 by Father Jack Wall, the event attracted over 2000 guests. For the first gala,

Kristin Barnette, Garry McCarthy and Jim Kiley (R) and friends

Father Wall brought in powerhouses Maggie Daley and Shirley Ryan as co-chairs and now the event has become a major fund-raiser for Old St. Pat's as well as an extraordinary musical prelude to St. Patrick's Day in Chicago. The evening included a pre-concert dinner and post-performance and

Maestro Stephen Alltop, narrators Channe 5's LeeAnn Trotter and Billy Lawless, Sr.

a reception in the Grainger Ballroom catered by Blue Plate. For dessert, sugar cookies were iced with bright Irish green shamrocks and, of course, Irish coffee was served. All monies raised will benefit Old St. Pat's many charitable outreach programs. Congrats to co-chairs Shelley and Bill Farley, Virginia and Norm Bobins and Jim and Lynn Kiley on a great night!

Alex Pissios

The Anixter Center is honoring Alex Pissios, president and CEO of Cinespace, on May 3 in one of its big, onsite studios. Besides being a remarkable human being, Alex is also one of the most generous people. He's keeping up with his family commitment to help those with disabilities while doing as

Cinespace in North Lawndale

much as he can to boost the residents in the neighborhood of his studio, North Lawndale. This TV/movie studio is the production venue for the hit shows Chicago P.D., Chicago Fire and Chicago Med as well as Empire and The Chi. It also happens to be the biggest U.S. movie studio outside of Hollywood AND has two college campus programs on the lot–DePaul Cinema Arts and Tribeca Flashpoint.

Patricia and Alex Pissios

Themed “Sharing Strengths, Building Partnerships,” the evening—a cinema extravaganza that will showcase the work of some of Chicago’s most exciting young filmmakers—will raise funds to help children, teens, and adults with disabilities through programs that include employment training and job placement, residential services and health care. For tickets and more info, click here!

Board member Kristin Calaguire and friends

The Chicago Children's Museum (CCM) opened its doors to more than 300 adults for the 8th annual Hide-N-Seek event on March 3. The event raised over $90,000 to support the

Board member Ivy Forester with friends

museum’s innovative exhibits, educationally-charged programming, mission-driven free field trips and community inclusion initiatives. Hosted by

Board chair Lyndsey Ager and friends

CCM's Metropolitan Board, the event featured a "Throwback" theme that included a surprise performance by a Michael Jackson impersonator, a flip cup sponsored by Coyote Logistics, duck racing in the museum's WaterWays exhibit, a photo booth and more! Music was provided by DJ LA Jesus and the Gold Coast All Stars Band.

Giordano Dance Chicago artistic director Nan Giordano and executive dir. Michael McStraw thank their supporters

Congrats to Giordano Dance Chicago! Not only did they knock the socks off of the Harris Theatre crowd during its two-day Spring Series on March 23 and 24 but they also recently cut the ribbon on their permanent home, the former Hermon Baptist Church on Clark St. So much to celebrate!

Giordano Dance Chicago celebrates at after-party following their triumphant Harris Theatre performance

Chuck and I could hardly stay in our seats during the rousing Spring Series performance. Every number was jaw-dropping, especially considering this small company (only 15 members) appeared onstage for almost every number! Presented by longtime supporter Susan Carlins (Make it Happen Initiative),

Giordano ribbon cutting for their new home

the 2 day experience celebrated 55 years of this much loved company. During the performance, even executive director Michael McStraw sang a tribute from the musical "La

Giordano Dance Chicago performing during Spring Series at the Harris

La Land," ("Audition-The Fools Who Dream") to perfection I might add. And for the finale, the dancers surprised artistic director Nan Giordano with a special performance they choreographed in secret. Not only did the tears flow on Nan's pretty face, but the whole audience needed Kleenex. Oh, what a night! Congrats, with love to Giordano Dance Chicago!

Dr. James Chandler (R, organization founder) with Jean Malnati-Miller and Marc Malnati

In honor of the growth and success of the Northwestern Medicine Lou and Jean Malnati Brain Tumor Institute of the Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center of Northwestern University at Northwestern Memorial Hospital, friends, family, survivors and clinical staff will be celebrating the 10^th Anniversary of the launch of the institute at the Minds Matter Benefit Dinner at The Ritz-Carlton on Friday, May 11. The fundraiser will highlight the institute’s milestones in research, education and care since its first fundraiser a decade ago at Table Fifty-Two. Actress/producer Bonnie Hunt will be emceeing this year's event just as she did for the first gala! For tickets, $400, more info, click here!

UPCOMING EVENTS: Jane Goodall keynote speaker at the 2018 Women in Science Luncheon at the Field Museum on Tuesday, April 3 (I'm going ape over this!); DuPage

Chinese American Service League (CASL) on May 10 at Morgan Mfg

Children's Museum Benefit Ball on Saturday, April 7; White Sox Charity Gala "Beyond the Diamond" on Tuesday, April 10 at the Park; St. Jude's Four Stars of Chicago benefit on Wednesday, April 11 at the Sheraton Grand; Urban Gateways "Art for All" on

Misericordia's "The Artist in All" gala on May 23

Thursday, April 12; Children's Place Assn. party honoring Blue Man Group at Morgan Mfg. on Saturday, April 14; Northwestern Hospital Benefit chaired by Jim Karas at the Four Seasons on Wednesday, April 18; Joffrey Ballet Spring Gala on Friday, April 20; Maryville Academy honors Justice Anne Burke,

Discovery Ball 2018 on April 21

Jean and William O'Neill at Spirit of Maryville Awards benefit on Friday, April 20; Discovery Ball benefiting the American Cancer Society on Saturday, April 21; Saks

Saks/Giordano Dance fashion show fundraiser on April 26 at VISTA

Fifth Avenue/Giordano Dance Chicago fashion show fundraiser at VISTA on Thursday, April 26; F.A.M.E.'s "Recognizing Chicago Talent" gala at Chicago Yacht Club on Saturday, April 28; "Wonders of the Park", the 11th annual gala for the Lincoln Park Conservancy, will be held on Saturday, April 28 at the Four Seasons; UNICEF Gala Chicago on Saturday, April 28 at The Geraghty; Stanley Paul Foundation/AIBI will honor Maureen and Marc Schulman at the Casino on Wednesday, May 9; Association

F.A.M.E. competition at Chicago Yacht Club on April 28

House of Chicago's Faces of Hope benefit on Friday, May 11 at Chicago Cultural Center; Misericordia/Bloomingdale's "Dress Up" luncheon/fashion show on Friday, May 11 at the Hilton Chicago; About Face Theatre's WONKA Ball on Friday, May 11 at the Museum of Broadcast Communications;

Chicago Lighthouse's "Seeing What's Possible" gala on June 22

Jesus Christ Superstar celebration presented by the Lyric Women's Board and Guild Board of Directors on Friday, May 11; Goodman Theatre's 40th anniversary gala featuring Broadway's Renee Elise Goldsberry on Saturday,

Jane Goodall will be keynote speaker at Field Museum Luncheon, April 3

May 19, at the Fairmont; Misericorida's "Artist in All" benefit on Wednesday, May 23 in the Art Institute's Modern Wing; Friends of the Chicago River's "Big Fish Ball" on Tuesday, June 5, at the Westin Chicago River North; Ingalls Development Foundation will present Patti LaBelle at the Hilton Chicago on Saturday, June 16; and the Chicago Lighthouse "Seeing What's Possible" gala will be held at the Four Seasons on Friday, June 22; Eversight Illinois' "Gift of Sight" gala on June 28 at The Peninsula.

Cooper Hefner steers Playboy away from Facebook

Boy, Facebook is losing friends left and right after the recent scandal involving revelations that personal data of 50 million users was obtained and misused by British data analytics firm Cambridge Analytica. The latest company to decamp, Playboy! Chief Creative Officer Cooper Hefner issued a statement via Twitter and Instagram last week. I understand the reasoning but will be sad not to be able to share PB's posts on

Andrea Schwartz Stryker celebrated 50 in style surrounded by friends

this platform.

And 50th birthday wishes are in order for Macy's Andrea Schwartz Stryker! She celebrated with friends at a private party at Nomi on March 23 with a special cake her darling husband Steve surprised her with! Here's to many more celebrations

Ji Suk Yi departs Windy City Live, lands at Chicago Sun-Times!

dear Andrea!

More congrats are in order for former Windy City Live co-host, Ji Suk Yi! The Sun-Times, in a stroke of genius, has hired her as a feature reporter! I knew she wouldn't last long on the open market! Long may you reign Ji!

With Michael Perich, owner of The Gnome Colony (485 Main, Glen Ellyn)

And last but not least, I had a chance to visit my friend Michael Perich's brand new store in Glen Ellyn. Located at 485 Main Street, The Gnome Colony is just what the name implies, a magical place filled with wonders–from his Michael Perich Makeup & Skincare line to gifts, clothing, home decor, fragrances and more. There's even a tiny fairy door built right into the check-out counter! He will soon be adding antiques and more fun stuff so I can't wait to go back and check out this cool cabinet of curiosities! Congrats with love Michael!

Roseanne reboot a runaway hit

Over 18 million people watched the "Roseanne" revival last week! I loved seeing these familiar and much loved characters after 21 years off the air! What did you think? I can't wait to see it when it returns on Tuesdays, 7 pm, on ABC-7.

That's all for this edition! I hope you've enjoyed all the fun news from this thriving city–so many people doing so much good and having a damn good time while doing it! Now that's my definition of living life to its fullest! Until next time…..

Love, as always,

P.S. Bill Conner biked across the United States in honor of his 20-year-old daughter, Abbey, who died suddenly in January. Along the way, he met someone very special — the man who received Abbey's heart. (You'll need a Kleenex).

Filed under Chicago, Culture, Current Affairs, Film, Music, Television, Web/Tech

March 16, 2018 · 10:43 am

BEAUTIFUL/WORK, A FIRST FOR SCHOOL OF ART INSTITUTE

RECORD-BREAKING BEAR TIE BALL; HEROES AWARDS; PRESENCE BALL; 90TH OSCARS (MY TAKE); UNION LEAGUE BOYS & GIRLS CLUBS YOUTH OF THE YEAR AWARDS; CONDOLENCES FOR CHEF ART AND HIS FAMILY; BECKY AND TARA WRITE A BOOK; DUPAGE CHILDREN'S MUSEUM BENEFIT BALL; AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY'S DISCOVERY BALL; BARNEY'S HOSTS UNICEF; BONNIE AND JIM CELEBRATE 46!; CONGRATS TO EMILY BARR; F.A.M.E. RECOGNIZES CHICAGO TALENT; RUSH AT GRAFF; LOVEBIRDS LAURA AND SUSAN; BATON SHOW LOUNGE CELEBRATES 49; THE GNOME COLONY; STYLE RIVALS; MAGELLAN/SAKS HOSTS FASHION SHOW FOR GIORDANO DANCE; VIDEOS AND SOOOO MUCH MORE!

Designer Holly Hunt (R) and guests

The School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC), a global leader in art and design education, raised more than $615,000 at its first faculty and student art auction and benefit! Proceeds from the first-of-its-kind auction contribute to Beautiful/Work: The Campaign for SAIC, an initiative to raise $50 million for increased

SAIC President Elissa Tenny acknowledges scholarship recipients Madison Bray, Tessa Johnson, and Moises Salazar

scholarship opportunities, faculty support, and programming. Highlights from the auction and benefit included: Soundsuit, 2012, prized artwork by Nick Cave that fetched the highest donation, $85,000! New,

Fashion designer and SAIC alum Maria Pinto with Don Woerner

young collectors purchased limited edition pins by fashion designer Maria Pinto, artists Diane Simpson, Phyllis Bramson and others. “As we near the finish line of the $50 million Beautiful/Work fundraising campaign, we are so thankful for the generosity of

Roger Price, Margaret MacLean (member of SAIC’s Board of Governors), Tommy Walton (SAIC faculty member, Department of Fashion Design)

alumni, the SAIC community, and donors whose contributions will support SAIC students and future generations of artists and designers,” said Elissa Tenny, SAIC’s president. “As our alumni and students know well, developing a voice as an artist takes the courage to pursue the questions that challenge our beliefs, seek perspectives different from our own, and innovate new ways of being that show humanity the way forward. The money raised

Elissa Tenny, SAIC’s Pres., alongside the piece "Knowledge Comes with Death's Release IV-V, 2017" by Beate Geissler & Oliver Sann

tonight gives students the financial freedom to be bold, take risks, and just create.” Other notable purchases included Untitled Anxious Drawing, 2017, a work by Rashid Johnson which was auctioned live at the event by Sotheby's Gary Metzner. (It fetched

Artist and SAIC alum Norman Teague and guest

$17,000). Other notable works by Sterling Ruby, Rashid Johnson and LaToya Ruby Frazier brought in great prices too. Since the start of the public phase of the Beautiful/Work campaign, more than 75 percent of current and incoming students have received scholarship support, and for the fiscal year

The always fabulous Shirley and Walter Massey!

2016–17, the School awarded a record number of scholarships totaling approximately $42 million. More than 1,800 individual donors have made contributions and alumni have donated a record $11 million, a significant increase over alumni giving prior

Anita K. Sinha, Chair of SAIC’s Board of Governors, with husband Prabhakant Sinha, alongside the piece "Knowledge Comes with Death's Release IV-V, 2017" by Beate Geissler & Oliver Sann

to the campaign. To date, Beautiful/Work: The Campaign for SAIC has established more than 30 new endowment scholarship funds that support undergraduate and graduate students including eight merit scholarships that cover the full cost of tuition for graduate students; Established seven faculty support endowments, including four full professorships, one directorship, and two part-time faculty awards; Supported nearly 90 Chicago Public High School students through scholarships and financial assistance from the Walter and Shirley Massey Chicago Scholarship Fund, SAIC’s College Arts Access Program, and SAIC’s Bank of America Scholars program. (For those still looking to participate in this fundraising event, select works are available and inquiries can be directed to SAIC via

Co-chairs Courtney Krupa and Tiffany Scurto Marshall

Janelle Beaird, jbeaird@saic.edu ). (Photos by Robert Carl)

The Bear Tie Ball (presented this year by Marcia and David

Jennifer Goodwin with her Uncle Paul Iacono

Knuepfer) benefiting Bear Necessities Pediatric Cancer Foundation, just gets better and better! This 25th year, it broke fundraising records at The Geraghty bringing in over $900,000 with more than 600 avid supporters. I always love attending this event as it is, not only tons of fun, but it is also such an inspiring night for a great cause–supporting pediatric cancer research and those kids who are touched by this horrible

Whitney and Kadmiel Christmas with Jim and Anne-Marie Hanson

disease. The foundation was started by Kathleen Casey, a tireless proponent of finding a cure, after she lost her son Barrett "Bear" Krupa at the tender age of 8 to Wilm's Tumor (a cancer of the kidney). During her gala

Bob and Joan Clifford with Gary and Sandy Fencik

speech, she said, "Bear sat with me for countless hours thinking of things we could do to make life a little bit better for kids just like him. His compassion for others was unwavering. His

Chris Renk and Frances Renk (BNPCF board member)

bravery was beyond belief. He always thought of others before himself and never once did he say 'why me'?" She added, "This year, over 15,780 children will learn they have cancer…My last memory of Bear was holding him in my arms and telling him to stop fighting. I don't want any other parent to have that

Nina Mariano and Donna Rotunno

memory." Father Paul White ministered to Bear and his family at Children's Memorial Hospital during this difficult time. In 25 years, Father Paul has never missed a Bear Tie Ball and, deservedly, he was one of the evening's Hope Award recipients. He dedicated his award to Courtney Krupa, a co-chair along with Tiffany Marshall and Kathleen's

Chuck and I with Nicki and Bob Fioretti

beautiful daughter. As White stood at the podium with his arms draped around both mother and daughter, he said, "It was Bill Casey's faith that turned tragedy into a triumph." (Bill Casey was Kathleen's father/ Courtney's grandpa and the Hope

Tracey DiBuono, Paul Iacono, Donna Rotunno and Kirk Williams

Award is named in his honor). He added, "Bear taught me how to take care of children and each other. These kids show us the face of God every day." Another deserving Hope

Longtime supporters Russ and Tracey Scurto with daughter/co-chair Tiffany Marshall and son

Award recipient was Greg Kosinski, Casey's husband. Courtney introduced him saying, "Little did Greg know that a blind date 25 years ago would turn him into a volunteer extraordinaire. He has a heart of gold and is always there to help children and families in any way possible." Other William J. Casey Hope Award recipients were Eric and Jean Lundstrom, the Palumbo Family Foundation (award

BNPCF founder Kathleen Casey, husband/honoree Greg Kosinski and daughter/co-chair Courtney Krupa

accepted by Mary and Sam Palumbo), the Wakerly Family Foundation (award accepted by Ralph Wakerly and his niece Gina Rich). Bear Hug Ambassador, Lukas Pawlowski, 18, spoke about his struggle with Hodgkin's lymphoma. Lukas, an avid baseball fan, was able to donate $2000 worth of sporting equipment to underprivileged kids thanks to

Lori Allen and Todd Hatoff

BN's Bear Hugs Program (that grants wishes to sick kids). During Lukas' speech, he quoted Babe Ruth, "You just can't beat the person who never gives up." He announced that his cancer scan came back clear and that he's currently finished with treatments. He said, "I've learned to live in the moment. What's happening in the

Kathleen Kenehan with Oliver Badgio (Steak 48)

present is what matters most. Other than beating cancer and aspiring to be a screenwriter, the future is not on my mind." An exciting live auction featured a mini-Labradoodle puppy–friends had to tie Paul Iacono's hands behind his back so he wouldn't buy another pup! This lucky dog sold to Mr. and Mrs. Pete Hassen for $4K. The top prize, a 2017 Jeep Renegade (donated by Marino

Chris Cooper and Saira Mohan

Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram) sold for $27K to Alan and Sarah Walker. A unique auction prize, original artwork by the "Bear, " sold for $7K! The party was a who's who of Chicago and included Paul Iacono, Frances and Chris Renk, Whitney and Kadmiel Christmas, Nicki and Bob Fioretti, Joan and

Mario and Cheryl Tricoci

Bob Clifford, Mario and Cheryl Tricoci, Saira Mohan and Chris Cooper, Tracy and Russ Scurto, Adam Marshall, Nina Mariano, Donna Rotunno, Kirk Williams, Todd Hatoff, Donna and Jon Kleinman, Justyna and Craig Della Valle, Zak Stemer, Liza Sweitzer, George Houlihan and Joyce Winnecke,

Emcee/WGN-9's Micah Materre with Donna and Jon Kleinman

Jennifer Goodwin and so many more! A cute side note, 25 years ago Kathleen co-chaired the first Bear Tie Ball with her bestie, Tracy Scurto, and for the 25th anniversary, their darling daughters, Courtney Krupa and Tiffany Marshall, were at the helm! Awwww! (For more info on Bear Necessities and all the good it does, click here). (Photos by Mila Samokhina)

Miguel and Kelly Cervantes

The Heroes Awards are presented annually at the Epilepsy Foundation of Greater Chicago’s Gala held, this year, on February 23 at the Museum of Science and Industry. The evening included a reception, silent and live auctions, live entertainment and a private viewing of the museum's fabulous exhibits. Hamilton star Miguel Cervantes and his wife Kelly were presented with the evening’s highest honor, the Richard N. Rovner Hero Award for their outstanding community contributions in the field of epilepsy. Miguel has starred

John Misasi and EFGC Board Member Sarah Carlson

as the lead role in Hamilton since the production debuted in Chicago in 2016. As thrilling as it might be to be cast as Alexander Hamilton, the Cervantes family had other concerns to contend with.Their daughter, Adelaide, had recently been diagnosed with epilepsy at the age of seven months. Soon after, they learned that Adelaide had a particularly devastating form of epilepsy that can lead to severe developmental and cognitive delays. Their frustration only grew when they found out there was no cure for epilepsy. “You get an epilepsy diagnosis, and you hear, ‘I’m sorry, there’s no cure. Let’s start throwing darts at a board to see which drugs might help,’” says Kelly. In August, Miguel attended the Epilepsy Foundation’s Tee Off for Camp Blackhawk

Miguel Cervantes with wife Kelly looking on

at the Kemper Lakes Golf Club in Kildeer, IL. He also attended the Epilepsy Foundation’s annual Consumer Conference with Kelly and Adelaide at his side. At the conference, he helped relaunch the #MyShotAtEpilepsy social media campaign to help raise awareness about the disorder. He knows that epilepsy deserves more attention. “The end game is to put epilepsy in the same conversation as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s and ALS.” Marvin Rossi, MD, PhD of Rush University Medical Center was also honored with the Hero Award for Inspirational Commitment. Dr. Rossi is a board-certified neurologist and epileptologist with a doctorate in molecular biophysics. The event attracted over 300 guests and raised $190,000 to help fund local Epilepsy Foundation programs

Michael Englehart, President & CEO of Presence Health; Cardinal Blase J. Cupich, Archbishop of Chicago; and Mark Frey, President & CEO of AMITA Health

and services that serve 43 counties in Illinois.

Presence Health hosted more than 800 guests at its annual Presence Ball, raising $1.175 million for the

The Honorable Anne Marie Burke, Justice, Illinois Supreme Court, and the Honorable Ed Burke, Dean of the Chicago City Council and Chairman, Finance Committee

organization’s new Founding Congregations Fund, which supports initiatives caring for the vulnerable in our communities, transformation and global ministry. Special guests for the evening included Cardinal Blase J.

Mary Franco, VP, and David Hill, president/CEO, of Superior Air-Ground Ambulance Service, Inc., the event’s President's Sponsor

Cupich, the Honorable Anne Burke and her hubby Alderman Ed Burke. Entertainment was provided by The Temptations Review featuring Theo Peoples. (Photos by Nelson Timothy)

Glam Squad–Jane Fonda and Helen Mirren

Let's talk about the 90th Academy Awards, even though you're probably sick of them by now. I actually enjoyed the show this year, much to my surprise. I was happy to see that most of

Rita Moreno, in her Oscar dress now and 60 years ago!

the attendees arrived dressed to thrill and I loved the list of winners. Chuck and I saw almost every nominated film, except for "Get Out", and our favorite won for Best Picture, "Shape of Water." I know it had its detractors but I'm a sucker for a love story and especially one with a bit of fantasy thrown in. I thought

Stunning Jennifer Garner!

Jane Fonda, whether you like her or not, stunned on the Red Carpet in a form-fitting white gown. I also loved seeing her present with one of my favorite

Allison Janney–gorgeous, smart, talented and funny!

actresses, Helen Mirren. (Side note, Helen Melchior and I were honored to co-chair an event in her honor for the Chicago International Film Festival and she is just as she seems–a pure delight and a real dame!) I thought Jennifer Garner, in that electric blue dress, must've brought tears to her ex, Ben Affleck's, eyes (what was he thinking?!). I loved Allison Janney's opening comment when she won for Best Supporting

Small but mighty Jodie Foster with the statuesque Jennifer Lawrence

Actress, "I did it all myself!" I thought Jimmy Kimmel did an okay job but didn't like the silliness taking Oscar attendees across the street to a theater (for what, to shoot hotdogs into the crowd?

My fav look on Zendaya–Giambattista Valli–she flowed across the stage!

Lame in my opinion). I also was disappointed that so many actors/actresses were left out of the "In Memoriam" segment like John Mahoney, Dorothy Malone, Glen Campbell, Mary Tyler Moore, John Gavin, Adam West, Dina Merrill and so many others. I just adored seeing Rita Moreno, 86, wearing the same glam gown she accepted her Oscar in 60 years ago!

Power and sex appeal in one package–Taraji P. Henson!

Moments like this make me want to come back and watch again next year! The speeches were blissfully short, only a couple went to the buzzer, and I thought they were very thoughtful. Best Actress winner

Power and sex appeal in one package–Mary J. Blige!

Frances McDormand got all the women in the audience to stand and be recognized, led by Meryl Streep, and, even though it was long (4 hours), I enjoyed (almost) every minute of it! My fav fashionista? Zendaya, stunning in a chocolate, flowing Giambattista Valli one-shouldered gown! Until next year dear Oscars but please get a few more eyeballs

Youth of the Year La’Tea Day with Ed Cooper

on that "In Memoriam" list, would ya?

More than 225 guests joined the Union League Boys & Girls Clubs for its annual Youth of the Year Dinner held at the ULCC on February 22. The Youth of the Year

Nancy Ross, ULBGC Board President and 1st VP Craig Labus with Junior of the Year candidates

recognition, the highest honor a Club member can achieve, celebrates youth who have overcome enormous odds and demonstrated exceptional character and accomplishments. This year, La’Tea Day won Youth of

Event Chair Stacy Fleming with Junior of the Year Jalissa Bowers

the Year honors and Jalissa Bowers won the Junior honor. Day will represent the ULBGC at the state competition. The five regional winners will then meet in our nation’s

Junior of the Year candidate Arline Mendoza and Tom Payne

capital in September where they will compete for the National Youth of the Year title. Nancy Ross, the nonprofit’s board president, also honored CBS Chicago’s Derrick Young for his involvement in the opening of the Club’s Englewood expansion. (Photos by Francis Son Photography)

Children's book authors/sisters Tara Luebbe and Becky Cattie

There are so many great books for kids around these days! I particularly love the recent one written by Becky Cattie and her sister Tara Luebbe! The duo first collaborated in 2014, and within 2 years, they had sold six picture book manuscripts to major publishing

The latest offering from this writing duo's many children's picture books

houses! Their first two books will publish within weeks of each other this spring: I AM FAMOUS, illustrated by Joanne Lew-Vriethoff (Albert Whitman and Company, March 1, 2018) and SHARK NATE-O, illustrated by Daniel Duncan (Little Bee Books, April 3, 2018). They’ve got three books scheduled for 2019, including CONAN THE LIBRARIAN from Roaring Brook Press, and another book scheduled to publish in 2020. Congrats, congrats, congrats! Wow!

The DuPage Children’s Museum (DCM) will host its annual Benefit Ball on Saturday, April 7, at the Embassy Suites by Hilton Chicago Naperville. This year’s black-tie event, themed “AWE Inspiring Moments,” will present the Great Friend to Kids Award to Robert A. Livingston, president/CEO of Dover Corp. The Dover Foundation, the charitable arm of Dover, granted DCM $500,000, which helped complete the Museum’s AWEsome Energy exhibit in June of 2017. Dover, its leadership, and employees continue to remain engaged with the Museum to help provide important early learning STEM experiences to hundreds of thousands of

Governor John Kasich

children and the important adults in their lives. For tickets/more info, click here!

The Union League Club of Chicago hosted its annual “Salute to Patriotism” event celebrating George Washington’s birthday with keynote speaker Governor

Union League Club decor

John Kasich on February 9. More than 180 members and their guests enjoyed this signature event that honored our nation’s first president at this traditional annual event. The evening

ULCC President William Nissen and Zeita Merchant

began with a cocktail reception followed by dinner and a program. Musical entertainment was provided by an ensemble from the renowned Navy Band Great Lakes and the Mark Streder Jazz Group. An after-party followed in the Main Lounge. (For more info about the ULC, click here!)

The American Cancer Society of Illinois will host its annual Discovery Ball (this year themed "Impact from Every Angle") on Saturday, April 21, at the Swissôtel Chicago! Chaired by Maurice Smith, Blue Cross/Blue Shield Illinois president, the event is always a sellout in the fight against cancer. For tickets and more info,

Simon Doonan, Barney's Creative Ambassador-at-Large

please call 312.279.7213. Hope to see you there!

The Barneys New York Foundation, along with Tina Trott, Susie Silich and Martha Metz,

Nicolo Beretta, Lisa Perry, Ana Khouri, Sterling McDavid and Simon Doonan (front)

celebrated UNICEF with a private luncheon and conversation on March 8, International Women’s Day. Moderated by Barneys’ Creative Ambassador-at-Large, Simon Doonan, the panel focused on featured designer Lisa Perry, shoe designer Nicolo Beretta of Giannico, jeweler Ana Khouri, and Sterling McDavid

Richard Perry and Lisa Perry

of the Starling Project. Caryl Stern, UNICEF CEO, spoke about UNICEF's vital work in helping women around the world and introduced the panel. Following the discussion, guests joined the designers for a shopping event

Caryl Stern, Martha Metz, Susie Silich, Tina Trott and Beth McCostlin

in support of UNICEF. The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) works in more than 190 countries and territories to put children first by providing health care and immunizations, clean water and sanitation, nutrition, education, emergency relief and more.

Cute then, cuter now 46 years later, Bonnie and Jim Spurlock

Happy 46th anniversary wishes to one of the loveliest and most philanthropic couples I know, Bonnie and Jim Spurlock! They were original supporters of PAWS Chicago where they found their "son", the handsome cat Remi! Their numerous hairstyle publications, under the Associated Publications, Inc. umbrella, are the go-to source for

Emily Barr receives the Golden Mike from (L) Dan Mason (chair Broadcaster's Fndtn. of America), Deborah Norville (anchor, Inside Edition) and Jim Thompson (pres. Broadcaster's Fndtn. of America)

the latest trends! Love and congrats!

More congrats are in order for Emily Barr, formerly pres/GM ABC-7, who recently received the Broadcasters Foundation of America's 2018 Golden Mike Award at a gala in NYC last week!

On Saturday, April 28, F.A.M.E. (Foundation of Artists Mentored in Entertainment) will host its 7th annual "Recognizing Chicago Talent" gala at the Chicago Yacht Club. The evening will include a talent competition, that will allow the audience the opportunity to vote for its favorite dancer and singer, a cocktail reception, dinner, dancing, DJ, live entertainment and so much more, all for the low ticket price of only $75! (Cash only tickets will be available at the door). I'm thrilled to be a judge alongside Giordano Dance Chicago's executive director Michael McStraw, renowned talent agent Donald O'Connor and chanteuse extraordinaire Denise Tomasello! Notorious comedian Kelsie Huff will emcee this jam-packed night

Debra Beck, Lindsey Axel, Eve Rogers (Graff Diamonds store director)

of supporting local talent! (For tickets/more info, click here!

The Rush University Medical Center Woman’s Board hosted an elegant kick-off party at GRAFF on Chicago’s Oak Street on February 7 to officially launch

With Kate Holland, Lisa Goldfayn, Kim Shortsle and Kate Mursau

the 24th Annual Spring Luncheon set for May 3. GRAFF is the Patron Sponsor of the Spring Luncheon, which will feature keynote speaker, Dr.

Shawna and Jay Owen

Madeleine Albright. As a nod to Dr. Albright’s love of pins, some very special jewels were flown in from GRAFF's London headquarters for the occasion, including a

Ron and Christina Gidwitz

butterfly brooch featuring over 40 carats of diamonds. The store event was hosted by Eve Rogers, Director of GRAFF Chicago, together with Debra Beck, President of the Woman's Board of Rush University Medical Center, and Spring Luncheon co-chairs Lindsey Axel and Kate Mursau. (For tickets to the luncheon and

Perich, owner of the whimsical Gnome Colony!

more info, click here!)

Huge congrats to my friend Michael Perich! Besides bearing the longtime title of Cosmetics King, he is now the proud owner/founder/creator of The Gnome Colony, "a store full of love, whimsy and wishes" located at 485 N. Main St. in downtown Glen Ellyn.

Michael Perich, formerly of CAMP cosmetics

Owner Perich says, “I designed my store to be everything I LOVE in life and to share every ounce of that with women! The Gnome Colony offers beautiful pieces of clothing, jewelry, accessories, makeup, skincare, and home décor. I love classic fashions with elements that can take everything up a notch that are not only extremely versatile, but very-multi seasonal as well. Nothing pleases me more than to see a self-assured confident woman lifting up another woman in my store. The world is a cruel place and I have created a

Michael created a lipstick for me, Candid Candace, as shown in this ad (photo by Amie Hana)

sanctuary for them to escape reality for a moment while they have a visual treat for the eyes during their shopping experience…My career, currently at 23 years and counting in the beauty business as a makeup artist, has run from one end of the spectrum to the other. I'm beyond excited to announce my new line PERICH Skincare & Makeup that is exclusively available at The Gnome Colony. I do offer a full e-commerce website for those who can't come into the store. I want to be able to say on my last day, in my last breath I did it, took chances, made mistakes, grew from them, chased dreams and made women love themselves even more." Good luck with love Michael! See you soon!

The popular Style Rivals competition returns on Thursday, March 29, this year to Low Res Studio, 1821 W. Hubbard. Local stylists compete for prizes–styling their own looks with their own models–before a panel of judges! Last year, 10 competitors vied for the crown with Brittani Franklin coming out on top! Join us this year and support our local stylists and the fashion community! I'll see you there as a judge! (For tickets/more info, click here!)

The Magellan Development Group, in collaboration with Saks Fifth Avenue, will host a fashion show to benefit Giordano Dance Chicago on Thursday, April 26, at VISTA, 345 Upper E. Wacker Dr. This show is sure to thrill! For tickets/more info, click here!

Dr. Jane Goodall, the "chimp whisperer", will be keynote speaker

The Women's Board of the Field Museum will host its annual Women in Science Luncheon at the Sheraton Grand on Tuesday, April 3, with keynote speaker Dr. Jane Goodall, the "chimp whisperer"! Her groundbreaking field research revolutionized the world of primatology and redefined the relationship between humans and animals. I can't wait and am so geeked out to hear her speak! If you're interested in hearing this world renowned scientist speak about her amazing life, click here for tickets/more info!

Chef Art Smith with his beloved late mom, Addie Mae Smith, on the day of his wedding to Jesus Salgueiro.

Condolences go out to Chef Art Smith and his family. He recently lost his beloved mom, Addie Mae Smith, to Alzheimer's. She was his biggest fan and there was always a look of love and pride in her eyes in every single photo I ever saw of her. I was lucky to meet her briefly at Art and Jesus Salgueiro's beautiful wedding in Washington, D.C. and it's no surprise that Art is the wonderful man that he is. In a post, Art said," She was that Steel Magnolia that taught me to keep my chin up when I was bullied and taught me that great art of listening." RIP dear Addie Mae…..

Actress/author/producer/director Leslie Zemeckis will make an appearance at the Chicago

Leslie Zemeckis, author/actress/director/producer

History Museum on Sunday, March 25 beginning at 1:30! She will premiere her latest film, "Mabel, Mabel Tiger Trainer," the story of Mabel Stark, the first female tiger trainer, with a Q & A following. Stark was a superstar in the steel arena and was told no WOMAN could train tigers, but undaunted and with

Big cat trainer Mabel Stark in an early promo photo

no training, she stepped into the arena and worked up an act that included up to 20 tigers! The film uncovers the real story behind the most famous woman of her time, as told in her words, from her relatives, her protégés, and today’s female tiger trainers who follow in her footsteps. I'm proud to host this exciting afternoon and I hope you can join us! (For tickets, $19, and more info, click here, and see trailer below!)

Newly engaged Susan Santiago and Laura Schwartz!

I have such happy news to share! I'm sure most of you know Laura Schwartz (professional speaker, author of bestselling book "Eat, Drink & Succeed", TV commentator, fill-in host for Larry King, White House Director of Events for President Clinton and all-

Laura's proposal to Susan onstage at Lookingglass Theater

around great gal)! Well, she is officially engaged to Susan Santiago (SVP at Hyatt Corporation where she started as a server in Tampa over 26 years ago! Susan was recently named one of Fortune Magazine's "Top 50 Most Powerful Latinas in Business"!). Their proposals were right out of a

Susan's snowy proposal to Laura in Plymouth, WI

fairytale! Susan surprised Laura going down on one knee in the snow on New Year's Eve behind Laura's parents' house in Plymouth WI (Laura's fav spot in the world!). In turn, Laura surprised Susan at the

Rings!

Lookingglass Theater, where they first met. Susan thought she was attending one of Laura's many speaking engagements but, instead, she entered the room and Laura was onstage under a spotlight holding out a ring box. I tear up just writing this….Such thrilling news for a much loved couple! As Kup used to say, long may they love!

Baton Show Lounge celebrates 49 years at 436 N. Clark

CONGRATS, congrats, congrats!

The Baton Show Lounge celebrated its 49th anniversary on

Shantell D'Marco, Miss Continental 2018

March 14 with a packed house at 436 N. Clark. Longtime fans (including a 93 year-old Cubs fan) enjoyed a new show featuring the reigning Mr. and Mrs. Continentals, Ramon Ventura and Shantell D'Marco. Owner Jim Flint reflected on his many years in the business at the "world's best female impersonator show" before the evening kicked off with Ginger Grant serving as emcee. (For a sneak peek of the performances, click here!) Congrats,

With Chuck, Dan Neniskis and Baton owner Jim Flint

with love Jim to you and your wonderful team!

That's the scoop for this week! I hope you've enjoyed this latest edition. Remember, if you have any news you would like me to share, please send it to Candace@CandidCandace.com! And, if you're not a subscriber, please sign up here! My list is never shared, only treasured!

Love, as always,
Candace

P.S. A loving, unbreakable bond…..:-)